The Kansas high school season is nearing quickly, and we're here to cover it. Over the next several weeks, leading up to opening day, we’ll be publishing our team previews ahead of the 2023 spring season, touching on programs spanning all state classifications, leading into a countdown through the official PBR Kansas Preseason Power 20 Rankings.

We’ve submitted a Preseason Questionnaire to high school head coaches across the entire state. Their responses have been flooding in and we’re using the detailed insight they’ve provided in our team-by-team preseason analysis.

 

Team: Blue Valley Tigers
League: Eastern Kansas League
2022 Record: 13-9
Classification: 6A
Head Coach: Tim Kennedy
Years at the Helm: 1

OUTLOOK

The Tigers rely on two young young, but very talented, arms who will give them a chance to win anytime they are on the mound. Byrd and Westphal are both D1 commits and have a big upside. Blue Valley's entire infield returns from last year. While they had some growing pains as juniors playing varsity last year, they grew throughout the year and coach Kennedy has high expectations for them this year. In order to make a deep run in the playoffs, the Tigers will be looking for pitchers to step up as a third starter and in reliever rolls. Their outfield will all be first year varsity players. If these players step up and play well, they will have a good chance to have a successful season. Many seniors and juniors will be competing for open spots throughout the season.

 

IMPACT PLAYERS

Max Erdley, SS, 12, 5'11" 170, R/R
Erdley will be the Tiger's leader on and off the field. Erdley is a solid defender who played well after an injury early last season. Committed to Ft. Scott CC
Alec Wombolt, 2B, 12, 5'11" 165, R/R
Wombolt is a very good all around athlete. Could play IF or OF for the Tiger. He will probably be a top of lineup guy.
Hudson Byrd, P, 11, 6'5" 190, R/R
Byrd will run his fastball into the upper 80's/low 90's. He gave the Tigers some solid innings last year as soph. If he locates well this year, he could have a great spring. Committed to Kansas St.
Grady Westphal, P, 10, 6'3" 170, R/R,
Started our regional championship game as a freshman last year. Excellent control with a plus fastball. Plays Varsity FB and Basketball also - tremendous athlete. May hit for us as well. Committed to Texas A&M
Ben Dalke, IF/OF, 12, 6'0" 165, R/R,
played 3B for us last year - may move to OF this year. Committed to Missouri S&T for football
Gatlin Samuel, 1B, 12, 6'3" 220, R/R,
Samuel should be middle order guy this year. He will be playing FB at NW Missouri St. next year.
TJ Bratton, Util, 12, 5'10" 165, R/R
Bratton came on late last year as 3B and P. He could play anywhere. He will give us some good innings on mound. Bratton is a high energy, good athlete.

 

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Trevor Brush, C

Numerous other seniors and juniors who will be competing for spots.

 

Make sure to follow @PBRKansas on Twitter for the most up-to-date coverage throughout the 2023 season.

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