Three and a half seasons. Over 7 million pitches. And a clear signal buried in the data. From 2024 to 2026, slugging percentage against the college four-seam fastball dropped from .530 to .503. Barrel rate fell from 21.5% to 19.9%. The rate of well-struck balls in the optimal launch angle window (exit velocity 95+, launch angle 10–30°) declined from 19.1% to 17.5%.
With the college season hitting its halfway point, several hitters have emerged as major draft risers, separating themselves through a combination of polish, power, and production. Some entered the year under the radar and have forced their way into national conversations.
From Liam Doyle’s overpowering fastball to Chase Shores’ electric arsenal, this group of five has made a strong case as early-round picks in July. Here’s a closer look at the data behind this season's biggest risers on the mound.
Happy 11.7 Day (November 7th). We have waited a few weeks to make this announcement but we could not be happier to finally share that we have hired on Mason McRae and Jack Delongchamps. Mason is basically Peter Brand Jr. (Jonah Hill in Moneyball). Just an absolute wizard with analyzing prospects. He will be in charge of our MLB Draft and College Prospect content.
Three and a half seasons. Over 7 million pitches. And a clear signal buried in the data. From 2024 to 2026, slugging percentage against the college four-seam fastball dropped from .530 to .503. Barrel rate fell from 21.5% to 19.9%. The rate of well-struck balls in the optimal launch angle window (exit velocity 95+, launch angle 10–30°) declined from 19.1% to 17.5%.
With the college season hitting its halfway point, several hitters have emerged as major draft risers, separating themselves through a combination of polish, power, and production. Some entered the year under the radar and have forced their way into national conversations.
From Liam Doyle’s overpowering fastball to Chase Shores’ electric arsenal, this group of five has made a strong case as early-round picks in July. Here’s a closer look at the data behind this season's biggest risers on the mound.
Happy 11.7 Day (November 7th). We have waited a few weeks to make this announcement but we could not be happier to finally share that we have hired on Mason McRae and Jack Delongchamps. Mason is basically Peter Brand Jr. (Jonah Hill in Moneyball). Just an absolute wizard with analyzing prospects. He will be in charge of our MLB Draft and College Prospect content.
