Stephenson In No Rush To Make College Decision

Teddy Stephenson SS / RHP / Bangor High School, ME / 2026

BANGOR, Me. - “I’m grateful for the opportunities.”

That is how Teddy Stephenson views his college recruitment up to this point in time, with interest from Division I schools in the ACC and Big 10 among others.

“It’s been pretty awesome,” the Bangor High School junior said. “There have been some big-time programs showing interest.”

But there is no rush according to the second-ranked 2026 shortstop in New England.

“I’m talking to programs and excited for the opportunities, but I’m keeping my options open with the 34-man rosters,” Stephenson explained. “There have been no visits yet, but in the near future.”

Despite being the top-rated junior in Maine, it has, admittedly, not been easy to be seen.

“It is definitely tough,” the 17-year-old said about getting recognition living in the state the furthest northeast in the U.S. “You have to travel more. A trip to New Jersey is four hours each way, but it’s totally worth it. I’m willing to do anything for baseball. It’s the game I love.”

Participating in Prep Baseball events in 2024 were beneficial according to Stephenson, who began the year competing at the New England ProCase.

“I performed well in the summer, that was a big part of my recruiting process,” noted Stephenson, who played for Team Massachusetts at the Future Games in Georgia in late July. “I got a lot of calls on Aug. 1 from the Future Games. A big thanks for the exposure and support from that.”

It was a “pretty busy” first day of August for the 18th-ranked junior in New England.

“I was in North Carolina and getting calls while I was in the airport,” Stephenson reflected. “I expected some calls, my travel coach kept me updated on what schools were interested. It was a little stressful, but a fun day.”

There was even discussion about his abilities on the mound in addition to his prowess as an infielder.

“I heard from two schools that like me as a two-way, but most just like that I can play anywhere,” noted Stephenson, who is seen as having the ability to play third base, corner outfield and middle infield. “I’m open to being a two-way. I love pitching, but at the end of the day I’m probably going to be a position guy. I love to hit and I love to field.”

At 6-0 and 205 pounds, it is hard not to notice Stephenson.

“I’m physically at the top of my class,” Stephenson said. “That’s a great part of my game. I can run fast, hit, throw, and have power. A big part of what I’m focusing on now is my mental game along with being more aggressive at the plate.”

Stephenson has a strong idea of what he is looking for in a school.

“I want a coaching staff that believes in my talents,” Stephenson explained. “I want an opportunity to play at a great school, one that is the best fit for me. It doesn’t matter if it’s a small school, big city school or even far from home.”

Finding the perfect match has been interesting.

“It’s a little different than I thought,” Stephenson admitted. “I’m just enjoying it as it goes on and grateful for every opportunity that comes my way. It seems that schools are taking more time now to see you develop, and aren’t pulling the trigger as soon.”

Stephenson has the belief that he can be a major asset to any program.

“I have all five tools,” Stephenson said. “I have pop, can throw, can run, can hit and can pitch. In my opinion, the biggest thing I can bring is that I can do it all. I’m just an athlete.”

Dennis Healy, Prep Baseball New England co-Director of Scouting, sees a bright future for Stephenson.

“Teddy is an athletic middle infielder who can play all three spots in the infield,” Healy said. “The foot speed is solid and he shows an above average arm. The bat has plus life with pull side power. His best days are in front of him.”

Where that future lies is yet to be determined.

“I don’t want to rush to make a decision,” Stephenson related. “I’m going to take my time and at the end of the day make the best decision for me.”