Coy James SS / 2B / Davie, NC / 2025

Entering 2024, Coy James built upon the momentum of a strong showing at the 2023 Prep Baseball All-American Game. Ranked No. 1 throughout 2023, James naturally attracted attention at both the state and national levels. His profile views throughout 2024 validated his high standing within the baseball community.

During the spring season, James and his Davie County High School teammates were very competive. Competing in one of the state’s toughest conferences, the Eagles faced quality pitching weekly. Over the course of their 24-game season, James delivered an impressive performance, batting over .400 with 9 doubles, 2 home runs, and 2 triples. He also showed exceptional plate discipline, drawing 17 walks and striking out only 10 times. Prep Baseball was present for several of the Eagles’ games, frequently highlighting James' contributions, including their appearance at the highly competitive South Brunswick Spring Break Invite.

James' summer circuit included participation in several prestigious national events. Notably, he competed at the East Coast Pro Showcase in August and took part in the 18U Team USA Trials. A seasoned Team USA veteran with numerous international performances, James faced challenges in the latter part of the summer as he worked to maintain his usual performance level. Despite being invited to the 2024 Prep Baseball All-American Game, James prioritized recovery, focusing on returning to full strength for the upcoming spring season.

Widely regarded as one of the most versatile players in the 2025 class, James made significant strides in 2024, particularly with his bat and raw power. At the East Coast Pro Showcase, he showcased his enhanced power during batting practice, driving balls out of the deepest part of Hoover Metropolitan Stadium—a feat achieved by only a select few since the event’s relocation to Alabama.

Currently ranked No. 2 in the state and projected to be a first-round pick in the MLB Draft, James, an Ole Miss commit, is poised to remain a focal point for scouts and baseball enthusiasts alike. His profile is expected to draw consistent attention as the MLB Draft approaches.

Harrison Mears C / SS / South Brunswick, NC / 2027

Harrison Mears emerged as a breakout prospect in 2024, drawing significant attention early in the year. At the Preseason All-State event, Prep Baseball scouts recognized the Freshman’s impressive performance. His strong showing continued into the spring, where Mears stood out once again at the South Brunswick Spring Break Invite, solidifying his reputation as a rising talent.

Building on his spring success, Mears entered the summer season as a notable name on the "big board" to represent North Carolina at the prestigious East Coast Super Sophomore Games. He earned this opportunity through an outstanding performance at the Team Carolina Trials: Triangle. Mears possesses a strong arm, exceptional quickness, and impressive strength through contact from the right side of the plate, showcasing his advanced skill set for his age.

During the fall season, Mears, now a Sophomore, continued to impress with strong performances in several Prep Baseball tournaments. He capped off his fall campaign with a standout showing at the Top Prospect Games: Underclass, further cementing his status as a player to watch.

As Mears progresses in his development, he remains a strong candidate for the Prep Baseball Future Games, the premier event for uncommitted underclassmen in the country. 

Jack McKellar C / OF / Rocky Mount High, NC / 2026

North Carolina has a longstanding tradition of producing strong catching classes, consistently supplying colleges and universities across the state with top-tier talent behind the plate. Jack McKellar embodies this legacy. Ranked No. 8 among catchers in the 2026 class, McKellar's talent and performance could place him in the top 5 in many rankings, underscoring the depth and competition at the position.

McKellar began his 2024 campaign with an appearance at the Prep Baseball Preseason All-State event, where he made a significant impression. The left-handed hitter with a strong arm earned this evaluation from Prep Baseball scouts:

Scout Report (2/03/24):

Player: Jack McKellar, Rocky Mount (NC), 2026
Positional Profile: C/3B
Body: 5-11, 190 pounds. Athletic, physical build with a strong lower half.
Hit: LHH. Balanced stance with a vertical upper half. Whippy bat path through the zone and a direct approach to contact. Line-drive hitter who delivers his best swings consistently. Recorded 61 mph bat speed with 8 G's of rotational acceleration.
Power: Max exit velocity of 89 mph, averaging 85.7 mph, with a max distance of 308'. On-plane swing with frequent barrel contact. Potential for power growth as loft develops.
Arm: RH. C-80 mph. High slot with a plus arm and carry.
Defense: Pop times ranged from 2.00-2.14 seconds. Demonstrates a tight transfer across the chest, good hip flexibility, and a strong willingness to block.
Athleticism: Recorded splits of 1.77 (10-yard) and 4.04 (30-yard) with a max vertical of 25.00 inches.

Following a solid spring season, McKellar impressed again at the South Charlotte Panthers Organizational Scout Day, where his performance reinforced earlier scouting reports. A few weeks later, McKellar competed at the Prep Baseball National Program Invitational at LakePoint, where the Panthers faced elite competition from across the country in a high-profile tournament setting.

Each appearance by McKellar has been accompanied by a surge in traffic to his Prep Baseball profile, reflecting the growing interest in his video highlights and scouting reports. His visibility and reputation as a high-caliber catcher continue to rise.

Currently uncommitted, McKellar will undoubtedly be a high-priority target for college programs heading into the spring. His ability to deliver consistent defensive excellence behind the plate, coupled with his offensive potential, positions him as an invaluable addition to any college roster striving to compete at the highest level.