Prep Baseball Report

Become a Member

More +

2025 Overall Rankings UPDATE: News & Notes

November 21, 2024
Shooter Hunt
Vice President, Scouting

Whether at the second annual Prep Baseball All-American Game, one of the many showcase events, or the countless Prep Baseball Tournaments held across the country, the fall season served as a pivotal platform for the 2025 class to further solidify its standing as the MLB Draft draws closer. With each passing week, the 2025 class continues to make its case as one of the most dynamic in recent memory, showcasing a deep talent pool filled with high-upside players.


For Prep Baseball, the fall season represented an unmatched opportunity for boots-on-the-ground scouts to build a comprehensive track record of the class. From the electric environments of high-profile showcases to the grind-it-out intensity of tournament play, Prep Baseball scouts were omnipresent, gathering data, sharpening evaluations, and honing in on the most credible insights in the industry. This relentless pursuit of information ensures that the 2025 rankings and scouting reports reflect not only the raw tools on display but also the intangibles and competitive edge that define the next wave of premier players.

The All-American Game stood out as a marquee event, offering a unique stage for elite prospects to go head-to-head in front of a packed house of scouts and decision-makers. However, the smaller, often overlooked tournaments provided equally valuable glimpses into the makeup and consistency of players, further validating their performances on the biggest stages.

As the 2025 MLB Draft creeps into view, the groundwork laid during this critical fall stretch has provided a clearer picture of who will ultimately rise to the top, with PBR’s relentless effort ensuring that no stone is left unturned.

***CLICK FOR TOP 500***

While many of the changes in the overall list of 500 players are subtle, some are particularly striking—most notably the rise of #9 SS Josh Hammond (Westchester Country Day, NC). A two-time Prep Baseball All-American, Hammond has long been a unique prospect, showcasing immense potential as both a pitcher and position player. With an electric arm delivering upper-90s heat and devastating secondary pitches, Hammond had previously split his focus, leaving his prospect status somewhat uncertain.


However, his strong summer performance, highlighted by an exceptional showing in Miami among top MLB Draft prospects, solidified his status as a dual threat. Hammond impressed with his power at the plate, including exit velocities up to 106 mph and towering home runs during the Mizuno Home Run Derby, along with two hits in game play. Equally notable were his smooth defensive skills, showcasing crisp footwork and quick glove-to-hand transitions, which elevated his draft profile in front of numerous scouts.

Beyond his physical tools, Hammond displayed unwavering confidence and a relentless drive to win—qualities that resonate with professional organizations. While his arm and athleticism remain standout features, his offensive potential has soared to new heights, firmly cementing the Wake Forest commit as an early Day 1 draft candidate as a shortstop.

Quick Hits:

+ The debate is sure to spark lively discussions within organizations picking in the mid-to-late first round, as they weigh the merits of #5 SS Kayson Cunningham (TX) against #7 SS/P Billy Carlson (CA). Both players bring dynamic skillsets, exceptional athleticism, and significant upside, making them tantalizing options for front offices.


Cunningham, a polished shortstop from Texas, offers elite bat-to-ball skills, exceptional defensive range, and a high baseball IQ, projecting as a cornerstone player capable of excelling at the professional level. On the other hand, Carlson, a versatile two-way talent from California, pairs electric stuff on the mound with impressive tools at shortstop, showcasing the rare ability to impact a game in multiple ways.


While personal preference and organizational philosophy will play a role in determining who goes first, the decision will likely come down to whether a team values Cunningham’s consistent all-around excellence or Carlson’s dual-threat potential. Regardless of which player is selected earlier, it is clear that both are premier prospects destined to make an impact, leaving their future organizations and fan bases with plenty to be excited about.



+ The buzz around #6 3B Xavier Neyens (WA) is only expected to intensify over the next nine months leading up to the MLB Draft. With an unteachable toolset, standout metrics, and a polished frame, Neyens has already established himself as a premier prospect. However, his performance at the Prep Baseball All-American Game offered a deeper glimpse into his potential—and it’s even greater than previously imagined.

A student of the game with a blue-collar work ethic, Neyens combines a left-handed power bat with a sky-high ceiling, positioning himself as a legitimate contender for a Top 10 selection.

Premium Content Area

This article is only available to PBRPlus Subscribers. If you wish to continue reading this article:

Login to the Subscriptions Website.
To purchase a NEW SUBSCRIPTION, please click here to go to our subscription products page.