Top 25 Recruiting Classes

Arizona State reloads with impressive haul

By Aaron Fitt
October 10, 2008

Baseball America's recruiting class rankings do not consider transfers from four-year schools. The Rank column indicates players who ranked among BA's Top 200 prospects for the 2008 draft. Draft references are for 2008 unless otherwise noted.

1. ARIZONA STATE
Recruiting Coordinator: Josh Holliday. Total recruits: 19 (14 freshmen, 5 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
140	Zach Wilson, 3b	6-1	200	Pirates (26)	Wilson HS, Long Beach
143	Jordan Swagerty, c/rhp	6-1	170	Rockies (44)	Prestonwood Christian Academy, Plano, Texas
	Riccio Torrez, ss/2b	6-0	195	Diamondbacks (32)	Brophy Prep, Phoenix
	Carlos Ramirez, c	5-11	210	Angels '07 (34)	Chandler Gilbert (Ariz.) CC
	Zack MacPhee, ss/2b/cf	5-9	180	Tigers (22)	O'Connor HS, Phoenix
	Abe Ruiz, 3b/1b	6-3	210	Giants (47)	Pacific Grove (Calif.) HS
	Johnny Ruettiger, cf	6-1	180	Rangers (35)	Joliet (Ill.) Catholic HS
	Josh Spence, lhp	6-5	175	Diamondbacks (25)	Central Arizona JC
	Kole Calhoun, of/lhp	5-10	190		Yavapai (Ariz.) JC
	Jared McDonald, if	6-1	180	Cubs (40)	Pima (Ariz.) CC
	Johnny Coy, 1b/of	6-7	200	Phillies (7)	Benton HS, St. Joseph, Mo.
	Ray Hanson, rhp	6-7	190		Wilson HS, Long Beach
No class can match Arizona State's for depth of impact players. Wilson and Ruiz give the Sun Devils powerful replacements for departed first-round picks Brett Wallace and Ike Davis at the infield corners, and Wilson has an advanced, all-fields approach to hitting. Torrez and MacPhee are dynamic up-the-middle players who will bring energy to the top of ASU's lineup, perhaps as soon as 2009. Swagerty and Calhoun are quality two-way talents who bring different skills to the table. The switch-hitting Swagerty offers strong catch-and-throw skills and a quality three-pitch mix, and could have a Mike Leake-like impact from the get-go. Calhoun is a hard-nosed outfielder who also was a dominant closer in the Northwoods League this summer. Ramirez, the No. 4 prospect in the NWL this summer, joins Swagerty in a star-studded catching tandem that will make the Sun Devils forget Petey Paramore and Kiel Roling. Ruettiger (the nephew of Notre Dame football legend Rudy) and two-sport specimens Coy (basketball and baseball) and Brandon Magee (football/baseball) bring huge upsides and athleticism to the outfield mix. Spence, a soft-tossing, competitive Australian with incredible feel for a four-pitch mix, should seize a weekend starter spot right away. The ultra-projectable Hanson tops out at 91 and features a promising split-finger.
2. VANDERBILT
Recruiting coordinator: Erik Bakich. Total recruits: 13 (11 freshmen, 2 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
52	Sonny Gray, rhp	6-0	185	Cubs (27)	Smyrna (Tenn.) HS
	Jason Esposito, ss	6-2	195	Royals (7)	Amity HS, Woodbridge, Conn.
	Navery Moore, rhp	6-2	195	Red Sox (26)	Battle Ground Academy, Franklin, Tenn.
	Joe Loftus, 3b	6-4	200	Twins (29)	Academy of Holy Angels, Richfield, Minn.
	Jack Armstrong, rhp/1b	6-7	200	Rangers (36)	Jupiter (Fla.) HS
	Grayson Garvin, lhp	6-6	215	Astros (45)	Wesleyan School, Norcross, Ga.
	Matt Marquis, of	6-0	190	Red Sox (28)	Immaculata HS, Somerville, N.J.
	Will Clinard, rhp	6-4	205	Dodgers (37)	East Robertson HS, Cross Plains, Tenn.
Eleven Vanderbilt signees were drafted, and eight of them showed up on campus as part of a class rich with power arms and power bats. The undersized Gray might have the most electric repertoire of any incoming freshman in the nation, with a mid-to-high-90s fastball and a plus 84 mph curveball. Moore has similar arm strength and ran his fastball up to 96 this summer, with his 2007 Tommy John surgery well behind him. Moore's secondary stuff remain raw, but Garvin has excellent feel for his three-pitch mix and has thrived since dropping his arm slot to low three-quarters. The angle gives his 88-90 mph fastball plenty of life. Armstrong, the son of former Reds pitcher Jack Armstrong, is a freakish athlete who can reach 94 with his fastball and launch homers with a leveraged swing in batting practice. Clinard is also raw and projectable but touches 92 from the left side. Esposito and Loftus will likely step in as freshmen and replace Ryan Flaherty and Pedro Alvarez on the left side of the infield. Both could be marquee college power hitters, as could the compact Marquis, who will fight for playing time in a Vandy's crowded outfield.
3. GEORGIA
Recruiting Coordinator: Jason Eller. Total recruits: 13 (12 freshmen, 1 JC transfer).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
80	Zach Cone, of	6-2	200	Angels (3s)	Parkview HS, Lilburn, Ga.
106	Chase Davidson, of/1b	6-5	220	Astros (3)	Milton (Ga.) HS
139	Michael Palazzone, rhp	6-3	190	Braves (18)	Lassiter HS, Marietta, Ga.
144	Cecil Tanner, rhp	6-6	200	Braves (36)	Ware County HS, Waycross, Ga.
	Jeff Walters, rhp	6-3	185	Indians (30)	St. Petersburg (Fla.) JC
	Jonathan Taylor, of	5-8	180		North Cobb HS, Marietta, Ga.
	Colby May, 2b/ss/3b	6-0	175		South Effingham HS, Guyton, Ga.
	Levi Hyams, ss/3b/2b	6-2	185		Colonial Forge HS, Stafford, Va.
The Bulldogs landed four players who ranked among the top 200 prospects heading into June's draft; no other school brought in more than two players from the top 200. Outfielders Cone and Davidson both feature legitimate major league tools. Cone, whose father played in the NFL, is the best overall athlete to attend classes this year, though it might take a little time for him to tap into his massive power potential. Davidson has huge lefthanded power to all fields, an advanced feel for hitting and plus arm strength. With a quality three-pitch mix highlighted by a plus downer curveball, Palazzone is polished enough to step into the weekend rotation as a freshman, though the Bulldogs are deep enough on the mound to ease him in gradually. Tanner effortlessly reaches 93 mph with his heavy, sinking fastball, and he complements it with a good, hard slider. Walters ranked as the top prospect in the Florida Collegiate Summer League in 2008; his 91-92 sinker and decent slider will make him a fine fit in Georgia's bullpen. The speedy Taylor could be Georgia's center fielder of the future, while May and Hyams bring versatility to the infield.
4. KENTUCKY
Recruiting Coordinator: Brad Bohanon. Total recruits: 12 (9 freshmen, 3 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
25	Alex Meyer, rhp	6-8	205	Red Sox (20)	Greensburg (Ind.) HS
	Andy Burns, ss	6-2	180	Rockies (25)	Rocky Mountain HS, Fort Collins, Colo.
	Cory Farris, of	6-1	195	White Sox (43)	Boone County HS, Florence, Ky.
	Braden Kapteyn, 3b/rhp	6-3	205	Giants (39)	Illiana Christian HS, Lansing, Ill.
	Michael Williams, c	6-2	200		Farragut HS, Knoxville, Tenn.
	Gunner Glad, of/rhp	6-0	190		Northeastern Oklahoma State CC
	Sean Bouthilete, rhp	6-2	190		Elizabethtown (Ky.) HS
	Chad Wright, of	5-11	180		Heath HS, Paducah, Ky.
Despite losing second-round arms Robbie Ross and Seth Lintz (who both signed late as second-round picks) and Daniel Webb (who failed to qualify academically and took the junior college route), the Wildcats landed the best recruiting class in school history. Meyer's plus fastball, plus curveball and athletic 6-foot-7 frame seem to make him a can't-miss college superstar, and he could wind up looking wise for turning down a $2 million signing bonus to enroll at Kentucky. Burns was one of the best prep hitters to come out of the state of Colorado in years, and he held his own in the Northwoods League this summer. He should hit for power and average at UK. Farris, a standout high school running back who turned down Division I football offers, has gargantuan power, a simple stroke and plus speed. Williams stands out more for his catch-and-throw skills than his bat, but he does flash good opposite-field power. Kapteyn touched 95 with his sinking fastball this fall to go along with a quality slider, and he could also hit for some power as Kentucky's first baseman. The versatile, gritty Glad brings solid tools to seven different positions, including pitcher, and Bouthilette could be a midweek starter as a freshman thanks to an 88-92 mph fastball and an excellent 12-to-6 curve.
5. FLORIDA
Recruiting Coordinator: Kevin O'Sullivan. Total recruits: 12 (10 freshmen, 2 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
70	Nick Maronde, lhp	6-3	195	Athletics (43)	Lexington (Ky.) Catholic HS
111	Ben McMahan, c	6-0	205	Yankees (30)	Bishop Moore HS, Orlando
	Anthony DeSclafani, rhp	6-2	180	Red Sox (22)	Colts Neck (N.J.) HS
	Jerico Weitzel, 2b/ss	5-10	200	Twins (27)	Ridgway (Pa.) HS
	Greg Larson, rhp	6-8	215		Lake Brantley HS, Longwood, Fla
	Tyler Thompson, of	6-1	180		Jupiter (Fla.) HS
	Preston Tucker, 1b/of	6-0	200		Plant HS, Tampa
	Mike Mooney, ss	5-8	160		Palm Beach (Fla.) CC
	Will Jolin, rhp	6-2	205		Guilford High (Conn.) HS
Florida's balanced class is highlighted by Maronde, whose power three-pitch mix from the left side and projectable frame seem destined to make him a first-round pick in 2011. He already sits in the 90-92 mph range with his fastball and owns a good 80-82 slider. Desclafani oozes projection—Gators coach Kevin O'Sullivan says he throws 90 mph as easily as anyone he's ever seen—and is more advanced with his curveball and changeup than his coaches expected. The 6-foot-7 Larson reached 94 mph before a stress fracture in his back foiled his senior season this spring; he's healthy now and showing good feel for a slider and changeup. McMahan is one of the nation's best catching recruits thanks to his athleticism, excellent defensive skills and line-drive power. Thompson, the son of former Giants second baseman Robbie Thompson, is a lanky, projectable outfielder who could provide lefthanded power as he fills out. Weitzel and Mooney are pesky outs who bring speed and sound defensive skills to the middle infield. Tucker has the most raw power in the class. The sleeper in the class is Jolin, a wiry bulldog with a quality sinker/slider repertoire.
6. TEXAS A&M
Recruiting Coordinator: Jeremy Talbot. Total recruits: 11 (7 freshmen, 4 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
130	Adam Smith, ss	6-4	200	Diamondbacks (28)	Klein HS, Spring, Texas
	Ross Hales, lhp	6-5	195		Barbers Hill HS, Mont Belvieu, Texas
	Randall Thorpe, cf	6-1	170	White Sox (29)	Heritage HS, Colleyville, Texas
	Danny Clement, rhp	6-0	190	Athletics (39)	Cascia Hall Prep, Tulsa, Okla.
	Brett Parsons, of	6-4	220	Rays (41)	Navarro (Texas) JC
	Joe Patterson, c	6-1	200		Seminole State (Okla) JC
	Zach Luther, ss	6-0	175		Aliso Viejo (Calif.) HS
After getting hit hard by the draft in recent years, the Aggies had only one draft casualty this year (11th-rounder Nathan Eovalde), and they believe they landed a trio of future first-rounders in Smith, Hales and Thorpe. The athletic, physical Smith has plus raw power, plus arm strength and good actions at shortstop, though he may wind up moving to third base as he fills out. Similarly long and lean, Hales already reaches 93 mph when he's at his best and features a pair of quality offspeed pitches in a 74-76 curveball and a 78-82 changeup. The wiry, rangy Thorpe has plus-plus speed and premium defensive skills in center field, though he's likely to start his college career at a corner to accommodate senior Kyle Colligan. Clement, a three-time state wrestling champion during his Oklahoma high school days, works in the 91-95 range from a low three-quarters slot that evokes former Aggie righty Kyle Nicholson. Parsons and Patterson both offer huge lefthanded power, while the multi-talented Luther reminds the Aggies of former Rice shortstop Brian Friday.
7. UCLA
Recruiting Coordinator: Rick Vanderhook. Total recruits: 7 (7 freshmen).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
17	Gerrit Cole, rhp	6-4	205	Yankees (1)	Orange (Calif.) Lutheran HS
	Chris Amezquita, 3b/ss	6-2	190		Servite HS, Anaheim
	Tyler Rahmatulla, ss	5-11	170		Mater Dei HS, Santa Ana, Calif.
	Trevor Bauer, rhp	6-1	175		Hart HS, Newhall, Calif.
	Steve Rodriguez, c	6-1	190		St. John HS, Bellflower, Calif.
	Adrian Williams, ss	6-0	170		Canyon Springs HS, Moreno Valley, Calif.
UCLA's small class was hit hard by the losses of Cutter Dykstra, Clark Murphy and Tyler Chatwood to the draft, but several high-impact players still reached Westwood. Leading the way is unsigned first-rounder Cole, the nation's top recruit to make it to a college campus this fall. With a fastball that reaches 98 mph and a hard, late breaking ball, Cole might have owned the most electric arm in the 2008 draft. Sooner rather than later, Amezquita and Rahmatulla will be counted on to replace stalwarts Jermaine Curtis and Brandon Crawford on the left side of the infield. The shortstop job belongs to Rahmatulla, a brilliant defender with surprising strength in his swing and average speed. Amezquita will compete with Casey Haerther for the hot corner job; his raw power and arm strength are both above-average tools. Bauer will forego his senior season of high school to enroll early at UCLA. His 90-93 mph fastball and sharp mid-70s curve highlight a five-pitch repertoire that will need to be streamlined a bit, but he owns a durable, resilient arm. Rodriguez and Williams bolster UCLA's up-the-middle defense.
8. ARKANSAS
Recruiting Coordinator: Todd Butler. Total recruits: 17 (12 freshmen, 5 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
72	Zack Cox, 3b/rhp	6-0	215	Dodgers (20)	Pleasure Ridge Park HS, Louisville, Ky.
157	Jarrod McKinney, of	6-0	200		Hughes Springs (Texas) HS
	T.J. Forrest, rhp	6-5	175	Pirates (32)	Bossier Parish (La.) CC
	Bryan Bingham, rhp	6-6	210	Tigers (40)	Navarro (Texas) JC
	James McCann, c	6-3	210	White Sox (31)	Dos Pueblos HS, Santa Barbara, Calif.
	Travis Sample, of	6-0	205		Howard (Texas) JC
	Jeremy Heatley, rhp	6-2	215	Red Sox (46)	North Lake (Texas) JC
	Trevor Cousineau, lhp	6-5	220	Indians (31)	Davison (Mich.) HS
	Seth Gardner, of	6-3	200	Pirates (13)	Highland Park HS, Dallas
	Kendall Wehrle, if	6-3	195		La Vista South HS, Papillion, Neb.
Power bats and athleticism are the hallmarks of Arkansas' deep class. Cox's bat can't miss—he hits for both average and power—and he also runs his fastball up to 92-93 off the mound. McKinney's bat is far less polished, but the former high school running back was the best athlete in Texas' draft crop this spring, and his speed, arm strength and power potential are all premium tools. The switch-hitting McCann was one of California's top prep catchers this spring, with sound receiving skills, an average arm and a promising bat. Sample's huge pull power helped him rank as the No. 10 prospect in the Texas Collegiate League this summer. Gardner is a plus runner and good hitter who has recovered from a torn meniscus suffered in high school. Forrest leads the Razorbacks' intriguing group of projectable arms. The best prep pitcher in Louisiana as a high school senior, Forrest returned slowly from Tommy John surgery and transferred from Louisiana State to a junior college, where he worked in the 88-92 range to go along with a good slider and changeup. Bingham has an ideal pitcher's frame, a 90-93 mph fastball and a decent slider, while Cousineau is a long-term project with Nick Schmidt potential if it comes together for him.
9. TEXAS CHRISTIAN
Recruiting Coordinator: Todd Whitting. Total recruits: 12 (11 freshmen, 1 JC transfer).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
167	Kyle Winkler, rhp	5-11	190	Brewers (37)	Kempner HS, Sugar Land, Texas
	Matt Curry, 1b	6-1	235	Pirates (37)	Howard (Texas) JC
	Walker Kelly, lhp	5-11	195	Mariners (50)	Arlington Heights HS, Fort Worth, Texas
	Kaleb Merck, rhp/if	6-0	200		Keller (Texas) HS
	Taylor Featherston, ss	6-1	175		Katy (Texas) HS
	Brance Rivera, if	6-3	170		Muscatine (Iowa) HS
	Jason Coats, of	6-2	190		Plano (Texas) West HS
	Davy Wright, if/of	6-1	195		Fort Worth (Texas) Country Day HS
	Erik Miller, rhp	6-4	225		Georgetown (Texas) HS
The Horned Frogs insist this class is even stronger than their banner haul of 2004, which ranked No. 3 in the nation. The headliner is Winkler, who draws comparisons to former Houston star Brad Lincoln for his smallish size and electric arm, which produces a plus 89-95 mph fastball and a plus hard curveball. Kelly has a similar easy arm action and an 89-92 mph heater from the left side, to go along with an excellent changeup. Merck, another smaller pitcher with a big arm, complements his 89-94 mph fastball with a slider that is above-average at times. The projectable Miller is the sleeper in this class; he could close games as a freshman thanks to an 88-92 sinker and a good slider. Featherston and Rivera bring speed, energy and excellent defensive skills to the middle infield, and Featherston also offers surprising strength. Curry, who drew Matt Stairs comparisons in the Texas Collegiate League this summer, and Coats add impact corner bats. Wright adds versatility—he figures to see action at catcher, third base and a corner outfield spot, and he can fill in anywhere on the diamond.
10. OREGON
Recruiting Coordinator: Andrew Checketts. Total recruits: 34 (23 freshmen, 11 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
	Danny Pulfer, ss/2b	5-10	170		Cypress (Calif.) HS
	Ben Whitmore, lhp	6-4	220	Red Sox (44)	Fresno (Calif.) CC
	Zach Thornton, rhp	6-4	215	Giants (43)	Ventura (Calif.) JC
	Justin LaTempa, rhp	6-3	225	Diamondbacks (22)	Golden West (Calif.) JC
	Casey Serna, ss/rhp	6-0	185		St. Bonaventure HS, Ventura, Calif.
	Joey Housey, rhp	6-3	190	Reds (31)	Nova HS, Davie, Fla.
	Colby Sokol, of	6-2	200	Twins (44)	Emerald Ridge HS, Puyallup, Wash.
	Kenny Bartz, of	6-1	180		Lassen (Calif.) CC
	Darrell Hunter, 3b	6-3	190		Thurston HS, Springfield, Ore.
	Erik Stavert, rhp	6-2	185		Chabot (Calif.) HC
	Scott McGough, rhp	6-0	185	Pirates (46)	Plum HS, Pittsburgh
	Mitch Karraker, c	6-1	175		Fresno (Calif.) CC
	Riley Bevill, rhp	6-4	190		Borah HS, Boise, Idaho
	Madison Boer, rhp	6-4	220		Eden Prairie (Minn.) HS
	Eddy Rodriguez, c	6-1	215		Wenatchee Valley (Wash.) CC
The first class for the revived Ducks is by necessity huge, though it lacks the frontline stars found elsewhere on this list. Not surprising for a George Horton team, Oregon's class is built around pitching, defense and speed, and it's short on power after the lefthanded Karraker. Pulfer and Serna will be pillars of the program—excellent defenders in the middle infield with great baseball instincts, and Serna could also be a fit in the late innings thanks to a low-90s fastball and excellent changeup. Thornton and LaTempa both have big bodies and big arms that can produce fastballs in the 94-95 range when healthy, but staying healthy has been an issue for both of them. LaTempa looks like a potential closer, while Thornton could join Whitmore (a quality three-pitch lefty) and potentially Stavert (a Kirk Saarloos type with a low arm slot, sinking 88-91 fastball and good changeup) in the rotation. With a low-90s fastball and promising split-finger, McGough could fill a key middle relief role, while Housey, Bevill and Boer all project as potential impact arms in a year or two. Bartz and Jett Hart bring speed to the outfield, while Sokol could hit in the middle of the lineup immediately.
11. MISSISSIPPI
Recruiting Coordinator: Rob Reinstetle. Total recruits: 13 (8 freshmen, 5 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
165	Taylor Hightower, c	6-1	185	Rockies (42)	Cartersville (Ga.) HS
188	Aaron Barrett, rhp	6-4	220	Twins (20)	Wabash Valley (Ill.) CC
	David Phillips, of	6-2	205	Mets (45)	Texarcana (Texas) CC
	Matt Snyder, 1b	6-5	195		Westfield HS, Centreville, HS
	Mike Snyder, 3b	6-5	190		Westfield HS, Centreville, HS
	Chris Corrigan, rhp	6-2	175	Blue Jays (18)	San Jacinto (Texas) JC
	Kyle Barbeck, lhp	6-0	185		Blue Springs North HS, Kansas City
	Kevin Mort, ss	5-11	175		Rio Hondo (Calif.) JC
	Brett Huber, rhp	6-2	195		Altoff Catholic HS, Belleville, Ill.
Ole Miss brought in an exciting blend of high-upside high school players and instant-impact junior college transfers. Barrett, the No. 6 prospect in the Northwoods League this summer, has both long-term upside and the ability to step right into the weekend rotation, thanks to a quality three-pitch mix highlighted by a 90-93 mph fastball and a hard breaking ball. Hightower stands out most for his premium catch-and-throw skills, and he should develop into a decent gap hitter. The Mets tried to sign the lefthanded-hitting Phillips after his strong summer in the Great Lakes League, but he opted to head to Oxford, where he should be a doubles machine. The Snyder twins, whose older brother Brandon was a first-round pick by the Orioles in 2005, both offer serious power potential. The lefthanded-hitting Matt offers the slightly bigger bat, but the righthanded-hitting Mike could win the third-base job as a freshman. The sleepers in the class are the defensive wiz Mort and the bulldog Barbeck, who dazzled early in fall ball with an 88-91 mph fastball and quality 78 mph breaking ball.
12. TEXAS
Recruiting Coordinator: Tommy Harmon. Total recruits: 12 (12 freshmen).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
95	Austin Dicharry, rhp	6-4	200		Klein Collins HS, Spring, Texas
124	Taylor Jungmann, rhp	6-5	180	Angels (24)	Georgetown (Texas) HS
	Brandon Loy, ss	6-0	165	Orioles (32)	Rowlett (Texas) HS
	Sam Stafford, lhp	6-3	185	Red Sox (40)	Klein Collins HS, Spring, Texas
	Jordan Etier, if	5-11	170		Westlake HS, Austin
	Tim Maitland, of	5-11	165		Heritage HS, Colleyville, Texas
	Andrew McKirahan, lhp	6-1	180		Georgetown (Texas) HS
The strength of Texas' class is pitching. Dicharry overcame shoulder tendinitis this spring to display a heavy 88-92 mph fastball, an above-average over-the-top curveball, an advanced feel for pitching and a competitive mound demeanor. Jungmann, an athletic former basketball player, has a loose, projectable arm that suggests he will add velocity to his 88-92 mph fastball. He has good feel for a curveball and changeup. Elbow tendinitis caused Stafford to work in the 86-87 range this spring, but the Longhorns say he can reach the low-to-mid-90s, and he throws three pitches for strikes. McKirahan needs to add velocity to his mid-80s fastball, but he does throw his heater and his secondary stuff for strikes. The Longhorns also focused on building infield depth with the scrappy trio of Loy, Etier and Kevin Lusson, a switch-hitting third baseman. Loy is an advanced defensive shortstop with plus speed and good instincts. Etier is a contact hitter who can play three infield positions adequately thanks to sure hands and a strong arm. Maitland is a leadoff-type hitter with above-average speed that helps him track balls in the outfield.
13. CLEMSON
Recruiting Coordinator: Tom Riginos. Total recruits: 12 (10 freshmen, 2 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
	Kevin Brady, rhp	6-4	205	Orioles (44)	Gaithersburg (Md.) HS
	Scott Weismann, rhp	6-1	175	Tigers (18)	Acton-Boxborough (Mass.) Regional HS
	Jason Stolz, ss	6-3	150	Braves (31)	Kell HS, Marietta, Ga.
	Brad Miller, ss	6-2	170	Rangers (39)	Olympia HS, Orlando
	Phil Pohl, c	5-11	205	Rays (44)	Cooperstown (N.Y.) Central HS
	Chris Dwyer, lhp	6-3	190	Yankees (36)	Salisbury (Conn.) School
	Will Lamb, of/lhp	6-6	175		York HS, Seaford, Va.
Clemson's class boasts a mixture of college-ready power arms and quality middle-of-the-diamond athletes. Brady used a 90-93 mph fastball that reached 93-95 late in the summer to rank as the No. 3 prospect in the Cal Ripken Sr. Collegiate League this summer. He needs to work on his breaking ball and changeup, but he is capable of dominating solely with his heavy fastball. Weismann doesn't have Brady's big, physical frame, but his 88-91 mph fastball from a low-three-quarters slot has similar sinking life, and his slider is tight. Dwyer, another power arm from the Northeast, also features a heavy fastball in the 88-91 range and flashes a good curveball. He'll be a draft-eligible freshman in June, and he is mature physically and mentally. Stolz and Miller are both big, strong and fast. Stolz has plus speed and arm strength and projects to hit for power, and he could wind up at third base. Miller is a flashy defensive shortstop with excellent range and arm strength and good power to the gaps in his lefthanded swing. Lamb, a plus-plus runner with a strong outfield arm, might be more athletic than either of them, but he's somewhat raw in all phases. Pohl is a very solid defensive catcher who will be a leader for the Tigers.
14. VIRGINIA
Recruiting Coordinator: Kevin McMullan. Total recruits: 11 (11 freshmen).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
79	Danny Hultzen, lhp/1b	6-2	190	Diamondbacks (10)	St. Albans HS, Washington, D.C.
	Steven Proscia, 3b	6-2	200	Twins (39)	Don Bosco Prep, Ramsey, N.J.
	Scott Silverstein, lhp	6-6	230	Nationals (32)	St. John's HS, Washington, D.C.
	John Hicks, c	6-2	190	Angels (31)	Goochland (Va.) HS
	Will Roberts, rhp	6-4	185	Angels (49)	Walker Governor's School, Richmond
	Shawn Halley, of/rhp	6-1	185		Lake Braddock HS, Burke Va.
	Blake Forslund, rhp	6-3	205		Rustburg HS, Lynchburg, Va.
Despite losing athletic outfielders Pete Hissey and Tyler Massey to the draft for a combined $1.525 million, the Cavaliers believe their recruiting haul might be the strongest in the Brian O'Connor era. Hultzen is one of the best freshman lefthanders in the country thanks to his excellent feel for pitching and lively stuff. His low-three-quarters arm slot lends his 88-92 mph fastball plenty of sink and run, his tight breaking ball projects as an average pitch and he has feel for a changeup. Proscia, a standout wide receiver for a national power prep football program, earned raves from scouts in the Northeast for his physicality, power potential, compact swing, arm strength and athleticism. He'll be a star at third base, while Hicks is an athletic catcher with arm strength and a chance to be a good hitter. Halley, yet another prime athlete, is a switch-hitter who will get time in the outfield this spring. Roberts stands out for his excellent command and projectable pitcher's frame, while Forslund can run his fastball up to 92. Silverstein is the X-factor; he had shoulder surgery late in the spring and will be sidelined until April. When healthy, the 6-foot-6 lefty pitches in the low 90s with good angle on his fastball and features an advanced changeup and promising curve.
15. CAL STATE FULLERTON
Recruiting Coordinator: Sergio Brown. Total recruits: 19 (13 freshmen, 6 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
190	Tyler Pill, rhp/of	6-1	180	Rockies (38)	Covina (Calif.) HS
	Kyle Witten, rhp	6-4	195	Twins (22)	Bakersfield (Calif.) JC
	Noe Ramirez, rhp	6-2	170		Alhambra (Calif.) HS
	Nick Ramirez, lhp/1b	6-3	225		Katella HS, Anaheim
	Carlos Lopez, 3b/1b	6-1	210		Crespi (Calif.) HS
	Austin Kingsolver, of	6-1	170		Dana Hills HS, Dana Point, Calif.
	Kyle Mertins, rhp	6-2	170		Santa Ana (Calif.) JC
Fullerton's class took a hit when top-200 prospects Jarret Martin and Kyle Petter opted for junior college over the Titans, although Petter could transfer in at the semester break if his grades are up to par. As it is, the headliner of the class is Pill, the younger brother of former CSF star Brett Pill. A premium athlete who figures to play both ways for the Titans, Pill should compete for a weekend starter role as a freshman thanks to a polished three pitch mix that includes an 88-91 mph fastball, excellent changeup and quality 12-to-6 curveball. Witten, whose four-pitch repertoire includes an 88-92 fastball and a hard two-plane slider, will battle returnee Daniel Renken for the Friday starter job. Noe Ramirez is the pick to click in this class, with a lightning-quick arm, a fastball up to 91 and a devastating slider. Mertins, who grew up two miles from the Fullerton campus, relies on a heavy, sinking 85-88 mph fastball and his guile. Like Pill, Nick Ramirez figures to play both ways in his Fullerton career, but his biggest impact should come with the bat; he gives the Titans some much-needed lefthanded power potential. Fellow lefthanded hitters Lopez and Kingsolver also add power potential, though Lopez has a more mature offensive approach while Kingolver is the more intriguing, projectable athlete.
16. WICHITA STATE
Recruiting Coordinator: Brent Kemnitz. Total recruits: 11 (9 freshmen, 2 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
163	Jordan Cooper, rhp	6-1	200	Red Sox (17)	Shawnee Heights HS, Tecumseh, Kan.
	Charlie Lowell, lhp	6-2	200	Rangers (27)	Winfield (Mo.) HS
	Brian Flynn, lhp	6-8	230	Red Sox (18)	Owasso (Okla.) HS
	Wilsisky Baez, 2b/c	5-9	180		Western Oklahoma JC
	Chris O'Brien, c/3b	6-1	190		Bishop Kelley HS, Tulsa
	Tyler Grimes, ss	5-10	170	Tigers (43)	North HS, Wichita, Kan.
	Josh Rosecrans, c/3b/1b	6-4	210	Rangers (50)	Santa Fe HS, Edmond, Okla.
	Dalton Banwart, rhp	6-1	190		Goddard (Kan.) HS
The Shockers were hammered in the draft in 2007, losing a pair of first-round picks to professional ball, but they fared much better this time around, retaining every recruit except Logan Watkins, who signed for $500,000 as a 21st-rounder. Wichita's balanced class is anchored by Cooper, the top prep prospect in the state of Kansas this spring. Cooper could step right into WSU's Friday starter role as a freshman thanks to a quality three-pitch mix that includes an 88-91 mph sinker, a tight curveball and a straight changeup. Lowell could also earn a weekend starter job as a freshman; he was up to 92-93 mph this summer with a fast-improving breaking ball. Flynn, another projectable lefthander, has been up to 90-92 in the past and flashed a promising breaking ball and changeup, but not surprisingly given his size he needs to smooth out his mechanics. Banwart is nearly a clone of his older brother Travis—who won 27 games for the Shockers from 2005-07—and could develop a similar three-pitch repertoire. Baez, O'Brien and Rosecrans all have the ability to catch, but the speedy Baez will likely start at second base and hit in the No. 2 hole, while O'Brien could start his pro career at third base and Rosecrans could DH. O'Brien, the son of former Wichita star and big league catcher Charlie O'Brien, is a switch-hitter whose strength is his bat, but he's got a chance to be a solid catcher down the line. Grimes is an advanced defensive shortstop with good speed and a compact swing who figures to start as a freshman.
17. FRESNO STATE
Recruiting Coordinator: Matt Curtis. Total recruits: 23 (17 freshmen, 6 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
	Josh Poytress, lhp	6-0	185	Astros (16)	Fowler (Calif.) HS
	Derek Benny, rhp	6-5	200	Athletics (45)	Roseville (Calif.) HS
	Charlie Robertson, rhp	6-5	190	Rangers (29)	Bella Vista HS, Sacramento
	Terrance Buchanan, ss	6-2	185	Royals (48)	Mount Carmel HS, San Diego
	Dusty Robinson, of	5-11	195		Centennial HS, Bakersfield, Calif.
	Brennan Gowens, of	6-0	190		Buchanan HS, Clovis, Calif.
	Cody Kendall, rhp	6-1	180		Clovis East HS, Clovis, Calif.
	Matt Morse, rhp	5-11	165		Mount San Antonio (Calif.) JC
	Tom Harlan, lhp	6-5	190		Archbishop Riordan HS, San Francisco
	Trent Garrison, c	6-0	175		Vista Murrietta (Calif.) HS
	Alex Jack, lhp	6-4	215		Arroyo HS, Hayward, Calif.
	Zach Bischoff, rhp	6-2	210		San Mateo (Calif.) JC
	David Rohm, c/rhp	6-3	195		Clovis (Calif.) HS
The Bulldogs won the national championship with a veteran-laden team, and many of their mainstays are gone, so they brought in a large class that will plug plenty of holes. In particular, Fresno needed to replace nearly its entire pitching staff—it lost seven pitchers including its whole weekend rotation—so this class is pitching-heavy. Poytress, Benny and Robertson could step right into the weekend rotation as freshmen. Poytress, an elite athlete who also excelled as a football quarterback in high school, ranked as the No. 6 prospect in the California Collegiate League this summer thanks to his excellent command of a deceptive 88-91 mph fastball, good changeup, solid curveball and split-finger. Benny's 89-93 fastball has heavy sink, and his 80-82 slider is a quality pitch. Robertson, the younger brother of Twins lefthander prospect Tyler Robertson and son of a scout, has a lanky, projectable frame and loose arm that produces a sinking 87-89 mph fastball and developing secondary stuff. Fellow righthanders Kendall, Morse, Bischoff and Franco all rely upon mid-to-upper-80s sinkers and solid sliders. Jack and Harlan are tall, projectable lefthanders with arm strength, though both work in the 85-88 range now. The class also contains intriguing position players, led by Buchanan, a strong defensive shortstop with plus speed. Hard-nosed outfielders Robinson and Gowens provide some power and average speed, while Garrison and Rohm could provide more pop from the catcher position.
18. STANFORD
Recruiting Coordinator: Dean Stotz. Total recruits: 13 (13 freshmen).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
78	Brett Mooneyham, lhp	6-6	230	Padres (15)	Buhach Colony HS, Atwater, Calif.
	Scott Snodgress, lhp	6-4	205		Yucaipa (Calif.) HS
	Brian Busick, rhp	6-3	190		Poway (Calif.) HS
	Chris Reed, lhp	6-5	210		Cleveland HS, Reseda, Calif.
	Christian Griffiths, of/c	6-0	180		Granite Hills HS, Apple Valley, Calif.
	Jordan Pries, rhp	6-1	180		Alameda (Calif.) HS
	Michael Garza, 3b/rhp	6-1	190		MacArthur (Texas) HS
Stanford's class might have more quality arms than any other class on the West Coast, though it lacks impact bats. Mooneyham is widely regarded as the best recruit on the West Coast after UCLA's Gerrit Cole. The son of a first-round pick in the 1980 draft, Mooneyham has great bloodlines and a big, physical body. While he can be wild with his command, he also has big league stuff already, with a fastball that reaches 94 mph and a slider that can be above-average at times. Snodgress has been the big surprise of fall ball. A year ago, his fastball sat around 86-87, but he's now throwing around 90 mph along with a hard breaking ball and developing changeup. Reed, the third towering lefthander in this class, has been sidelined this fall with a tender back. When healthy, he works in the mid-to-high-80s, but he projects to add velocity as he matures physically. Busick has also been on the shelf this fall—thanks to a sore elbow—but his 90 mph fastball and slider are both good offerings. Pries is the most polished pitcher in this class, and the best at controlling opposing running games. He works in the high-80s and mixes in a changeup, curveball and even a legitimate knuckleball. Pries is the first pitcher with a knuckler that Stotz has coached in his 33-year tenure at Stanford. The switch-hitting Griffiths and the versatile Garza give this class a pair of quality hitters with mature offensive approaches.
19. OKLAHOMA STATE
Recruiting Coordinator: Billy Jones. Total recruits: 12 (7 freshmen, 5 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
	Mark Ginther, rhp/ss	6-2	190	Phillies (48)	Jenks (Okla.) HS
	Randal McCurry, rhp/3b	6-2	190		Tupelo (Okla.) HS
	Marcus Knecht, of	6-1	200	Brewers (23)	St. Michael's College School, Toronto
	Doug Kroll, 1b	6-4	215		Iowa Western JC
	Anthony Trevino, rhp	6-2	210		McAlester (Okla.) HS
	Chance Deason, lhp	6-0	170	Padres '06 (39)	Eastern Oklahoma State JC
	Jared Womack, c	5-10	195		Plant HS, Tampa
Two-way talents Ginther and McCurry highlight Oklahoma State's strong class. Both are righthanders who worked in the 90-94 mph range this fall, and both will play prominent roles on the pitching staff this spring. Ginther, who won two state titles as a football quarterback, could take off now that he's finally focusing exclusively on baseball. He complements his fastball with a good 83 mph slider, and he could develop into a power-hitting infielder as well. McCurry's three-quarters slot lends his fastball plenty of run, and he could take over for Jordy Mercer as OSU's closer this spring. Knecht, one of the top prospects in Canada this spring, has a compact swing with a high finish that evokes former Cowboys star Tyler Mach, but he has even greater power potential than Mach. Kroll hit 37 homers in two junior college seasons and continued to mash in the Coastal Plain League this summer; he should fill Rebel Ridling's role ably. Deason has a funky, deceptive delivery and the ability to pitch to both sides of the plate with an 85-87 mph fastball and good changeup. He'll log plenty of innings as a bullpen lefty. Trevino is the sleeper in this class, a bulldog on the mound with loads of arm-side run on his 88-90 fastball and the ability to throw his curveball for strikes.
20. LOUISVILLE
Recruiting Coordinator: Chris Lemonis. Total recruits: 10 (9 freshmen, 1 JC transfer).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
	Keith Landers, lhp	6-7	230	Orioles (18)	St. Peter-Marian HS, Worcester, Mass.
	Tony Zych, 2b/rhp	6-3	195	Cubs (46)	St. Rita of Cascia HS, Chicago
	Mike Nastold, rhp	6-4	220		Elder HS, Cincinnati
	Ryan Wright, ss/3b	6-1	190		Homestead HS, Fort Wayne, Ind.
	Adam Duvall, 2b/ss	6-1	190		Chipola (Fla.) JC
	Alex Blodgett, rhp	6-5	190		Tates Creek HS, Lexington, Ky.
	Tim Hayes, c	6-1	208		Lawrence County HS, Louisa, Ky.
The first class Louisville signed after its 2007 run to Omaha, this group is headlined by front-line talents Landers and Zych. Landers was the top prospect in Massachusetts this spring, a rare 6-foot-7 lefthander with arm strength and feel for pitching. In fall practice he has worked in the 88-92 range while showing a good breaking ball, but the Cardinals have been most impressed with his mound presence and composure. Zych's velocity jumped this summer and he sat consistently at 93 this fall, to go along with an effective low-70s curveball and high-70s slider. An exceptional athlete with slightly above-average speed and some strength in his long swing, Zych could be in the mix at second base as well as the back of the bullpen. Nastold, who reached 94 as a junior before breaking his leg playing flag football as a senior, sat in the 88-91 range with a heavy fastball this fall. Blodgett threw just five innings this spring due to tendinitis, but he's long, loose and projectable with an 88-92 mph fastball and solid curveball. The versatile Wright is a steady shortstop with solid tools across the board, though he could move to third base down the line as he fills out. Duvall, who spent his injury-plagued freshman year at Western Kentucky before transferring to Chipola, is a big, physical second baseman in the mold of former Louisville star Logan Johnson.
21. PEPPERDINE
Recruiting Coordinator: Sean Kenny. Total recruits: 10 (8 freshmen, 2 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
180	Brian Humphries, of	6-2	185	Red Sox (19)	Granite Hills HS, El Cajon, Calif.
	Aaron Gates, lhp/of	6-1	190	Rockies (33)	Orange Lutheran HS, Orange, Calif.
	Tyler Brubaker, of	6-2	200		Saugus (Calif.) HS
	Nathan Johnson, c	6-1	180		Camarillo (Calif.) HS
	Bryce Uhrig, rhp	6-3	175		Santa Barbara (Calif.) CC
	Colin Rooney, ss/3b	6-0	190	Nationals (45)	Saddleback (Calif.) CC
	Cody Yount, if	6-1	185		Chaparral HS, Paradise Valley, Calif.
The Waves return 90 percent of their 2008 regional team, so they brought in a small class anchored by a pair of big-time impact players in Humphries and Gates. Humphries is the kind of athlete who seldom shows up on college campuses, a true five-tool talent with present skills and loads of projection. An outstanding defender with a chance to be an above-average hitter, Humphries glides effortlessly around center fielder and runs a 6.6-second 40-yard dash. Gates is also a good enough athlete to play center field and should be another impact hitter as a freshman, but he also garners comparisons to Randy Wolf off the mound and could step right into the weekend rotation. Brubaker needs to work on making more consistent contact, but he has plus raw power and plus speed. Johnson has a sweet lethanded swing and a strong arm behind the plate. Uhrig stands out for his command and feel for pitching more than his stuff and will eat innings for Pepperdine. Rooney has a knack for putting the bat on the ball and could factor into the third base mix. Yount, the newphew of Hall of Famer Robin Yount, offers a promising lefthanded bat and the ability to play multiple corner positions as well as catcher.
22. SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Recruiting Coordinator: Doyle Wilson. Total recruits: 15 (14 freshmen, 1 JC transfer).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
108	Ricky Oropesa, 3b/of	6-3	215	Red Sox (24)	Etiwanda (Calif.) HS
	Danny Coulombe, lhp	5-10	175	Dodgers (17)	Chaparral (Ariz.) HS
	Brandon Garcia, c/of	6-2	195	Brewers (28)	Bishop Gorman (Nev.) HS
	Chad Smith, rhp	6-3	200		Thousand Oaks (Calif.) HS
	Beau Brett, 1b/of	6-3	190	Royals (29)	Ferris HS, Spokane, Wash.
	Ashton Kent, 2b/ss	6-2	185		Catalina Foothills HS, Tucson, Ariz.
	Alex Levin, lhp	6-3	220		Lower Columbia (Wash.) CC
USC's balanced class features a mixture of power, speed and projectable strike-throwing pitchers. Oropesa has huge tools, including well-above-average raw power and an above-average arm that can reach 95 mph off the mound. His spotty defense and lack of speed make his position a question mark, but he'll be a star with the bat, and potentially off the mound as well. Coulombe pitches in the 86-90 range with a lively fastball, mixes in a solid changeup, and uses a devastating curveball as his out pitch. Garcia reached 90 mph from the left side as a pitcher in high school, but his best tool is his bat. He's a better defender in the outfield than behind the plate. Smith works in the 88-91 range and stands out for his advanced feel for pitching and command. Brett, the newphew of Hall of Famer George Brett and son of Spokane Indians owner Bobby Brett, generates good loft power with his lefthanded swing. Kent is an outstanding athlete who was an all-state soccer player in Arizona.
23. NORTH CAROLINA STATE
Recruiting Coordinator: Tom Holliday. Total recruits: 15 (11 freshmen, 4 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
	Cory Mazzoni, rhp	6-0	185	Nationals (26)	Seneca Valley HS, Harmony, Pa.
	Zak Sinclair, rhp	6-4	225	Red Sox (34)	West Allegheny HS, Imperial, Pa.
	Drew Poulk, of	6-3	191		St. Petersburg (Fla.) JC
	Harold Riggins, 1b	6-3	250	White Sox (35)	Normal (Ill.) West HS
	Kyle Wilson, ss	6-0	185	Cubs (31)	Hill (Texas) JC
	Greg Conver, rhp	6-4	200		American Heritage HS, Plantation, Fla.
	Mike Russo, rhp	6-6	200	Phillies (49)	The Hun School, Princeton, Pa.
	John Lambert, lhp	6-6	210	Nationals (36)	Santa Fe (Fla.) CC
	John Gianis, of	6-3	180		The Hun School, Princeton, Pa.
	Cameron Conner, of	6-1	195		Fuquary-Varina (N.C.) HS
Since the arrival of Tom Holliday as pitching coach/recruiting coordinator, the Wolfpack have shifted its philosophy to build around quality arms instead of big bats. That approach is reflected in this deep class, which is highlighted by polished arms like Pennsylvania righties Mazzoni and Sinclair. Mazzoni was the big story in fall practice, carving up NCSU hitters with an 87-90 mph fastball that touches 92 and three solid secondary pitches. Sinclair, a former football quarterback, is bigger and more projectable than Mazzoni but not as polished. Scouts sometimes have questioned Conver's mental toughness, but his 88-92 mph fastball has life and sink, and his sweeping slider is tough on righthanded hitters. Lambert has a professional frame and a decent four-pitch mix, but his fastball lacks firmness. Russo could add velocity to his 86-90 fastball as he fills out his big frame, but he'll need to improve his curveball. This class isn't just pitching; Riggins has huge raw power and a strong arm that could play at an outfield corner. Poulk, who had a strong start at North Carolina as a freshman before transferring to St. Petersburg JC, has athleticism and power potential. The switch-hitting Wilson will likely step right into the starting shortstop job thanks to his excellent range, strong arm and solid bat.
24. FLORIDA STATE
Recruiting Coordinator: Jamey Shouppe. Total recruits: 13 (10 freshmen, 3 JC transfers).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
	Kyle Long, lhp	6-7	286	White Sox (23)	St. Anne's-Belfield School, Charlottesville, Va.
	Austin Wood, rhp	6-4	207	Astros (36)	Niceville (Fla.) HS
	Mike Meschke, 1b	6-2	232		North Florida CC
	Sean Gilmartin, lhp/of	6-2	179	Padres (31)	Crespi Carmelite HS, Encino, Calif.
	Hunter Scantling, rhp	6-7	253	Cubs (49)	Episcopal HS, Jacksonville, Fla.
	Kris Castellanos, lhp	6-2	188	Astros (38)	Newsome HS, Lithia, Fla.
	Rafael Lopez, if	5-9	197		Indian River (Fla.) CC
The Seminoles lost a number of key veterans from their 2008 College World Series team, but this class fills their needs for lefthanded hitting and quality arms. Long provides help in both of those areas. The son of former Oakland Raider Howie Long and brother of No. 2 overall NFL draft pick Chris Long, Kyle brings an intense football player's mentality to the diamond, not to mention a football physique. He's max-effort both on the mound and with the bat, but he can run his fastball up to 95 mph, though his secondary stuff is raw. Wood's velocity fluctuated in the spring, but when he's at his best he works in the low 90s and features a good curveball. He has an athletic, projectable frame and present ability, as does Gilmartin, who garners comparisons to Shawn Green. Gilmartin has a chance for four average or better tools as an outfielder and could also blossom into a closer for FSU. Scantling, an athletic former basketball player, might have the most upside of the group, though he pitched in the 85-87 range for much of the spring. Castellanos provides a third quality lefthanded arm; he can reach 90 mph and has a good overhand curveball. Meschke is the sleeper in this class. Like Georgia's Chase Davidson, Meschke has big raw power and feel for hitting from the left side, though he's a poor defender and below-average runner.
25. DUKE
Recruiting coordinator: Matthew Boggs. Total recruits: 7 (7 freshmen).
RANK	NAME, POS	Ht.	Wt.	DRAFTED	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
	Eric Pfisterer, lhp/1b	6-4	230	Reds (15)	Don Bosco Prep, Ramsey, N.J.
	Ben Grisz, rhp	6-1	230		St. Mark's School, Dallas
	William Piwnica-Worms, of	6-3	215		Watkins HS, Ladue, Mo.
	Brian Litwin, of	6-4	210	Pirates (24)	St. Stephens HS, Hickory, N.C.
	David Putman, rhp	6-3	225		The Hun School, Princeton, N.J.
	Joe Pedevillano, lhp/of	5-6	150		Our Lady of Lourdes, Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
	Trevor Cesar, rhp/of	6-3	180		Golden Valley HS, Merced, Calif.
The Blue Devils haven't made a regional since 1961, but landing perhaps the best recruiting class in school history will go a long way toward helping Duke end that drought. Pfisterer, who has good feel for an 87-92 mph fastball, quality changeup and curveball, has drawn comparisons to former Virginia two-way star Sean Doolittle from scouts in the Northeast; he reminds Duke recruiting coordinator Matthew Boggs of Brian Bogusevic, whom Boggs coached at Tulane. Grisz, who won four Texas state wrestling titles in four years in high school, has the kind of power arm Duke hasn't landed in a very long time. He attacks hitters with an 88-93 mph fastball and a hard slider. Piwnica-Worms and Litwin are both projectable outfielders with intriguing raw tools. Piwnica-Worms' speed, arm strength and baserunning instincts remind Boggs of his former Geogia Tech teammate Richard Lewis. Litwin also has speed and arm strength, to go along with huge raw power, but he's still learning how to hit. Putman works in the 87-91 range and features the best curveball on the team, though he needs to refine his control. The scrappy Pedevillano is an excellent defensive outfielder with good speed who also pounds he strike zone with an 85-89 mph fastball off the mound. Cesar's 85-88 fastball has good run and sink, and he could contribute offensively as well.