Five talented high school baseball players from North Carolina have received invitations to participate in this week’s Major League Baseball Draft Combine at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. Additionally, six college players who played high school baseball within the state will also be attending. The draft is scheduled for July 13 and 14 in Atlanta, coinciding with All-Star events.
The MLB Draft Combine, which began in 2021, is in its fifth year. This unique event not only allows players to undergo medical evaluations and meet with various teams but also offers them the opportunity to showcase their skills through on-field activities. Participants will engage in batting practice, infield and outfield workouts, and bullpen sessions. Moreover, a high school game will take place on Tuesday, with live streaming available on MLB.com.
Here are the high school players representing North Carolina at the combine:
– Tyler Baird, Hough (Cornelius, N.C.)
– C.J. Gray, A.L. Brown (Kannapolis, N.C.)
– Josh Hammond, Wesleyan Christian (High Point, N.C.)
– Coy James, Davie County (Mocksville, N.C.)
– Briggs McKenzie, Corinth Holders (Wendell, N.C.)
The college players invited include:
– Aidan Haugh, East Wake (North Carolina)
– Eli Jerzembeck, Providence (South Carolina)
– Kane Kepley, South Rowan (North Carolina)
– Tanner Thach, Perquimans (UNC-Wilmington)
– Dixon Williams, D.H. Conley (East Carolina)
– Ethan Young, Hickory Ridge (East Carolina)
This event represents a significant opportunity for young athletes to display their potential and possibly secure a future in professional baseball. The participation of talented players from North Carolina underscores the state’s strong presence in the sport, which may inspire upcoming generations of players.