New Mexico High School Baseball Rankings
We are 20 days away from the New Mexico High School Baseball Season and today we begin our NMPreps.com Top 25 Preseason Countdown to No. 1. Today we start by ranking teams 25-20, then leading up to February 1st, 2016 we'll release one team per day. We invite you to become a premium subscriber of NMPreps.com to view our complete and non-stop New Mexico High School Baseball Coverage.
Please do not post this information on social media sites. This is premium information, which should be available for playing members only. Thank you.
Our 2016 Baseball Sponsor is Stoven Construction
No. 1 Eldorado Eagles
Head Coach: Jim Johns
Last Year: 22-8
Preview: The Defending Class 6A State Champions ended the year simply on fire, they won their last 7 out of 8 games by a combine score of 77-13. That included wins over La Cueva in the quarterfinals winning 10-1 and beating Volcano Vista in the finals 9-0. They were just crushing the ball by seasons end. As any state championship team does, they graduate a good amount of senior talent losing: Craig Buzzard, Grant Beck, Andrew Stubbs, Austin Treadwell, and Zack May. Tough losses, but Head Baseball Coach Jim Johns who is one of the best teachers of the game in New Mexico (over 500 career victories as a coach) has some deep, deep talent returning into the 2016 season. Leading off with NMPreps.com Mr. Baseball Candidate Nate Garley (Committed to New Mexico). A 6-foot-3, 210 pond RHP/3B that is one of the hardest throwers in the state and also one of the biggest bats. Expecting a monster year from him. Last year he hit .429 from the plate with 26 RBI’s and was an incredible 7-1 on the mound with 87K’s. Garrett Ham also returns for the Eagles. Last year he was 6-5 on the mound in 13 appearances with 4 complete games and also threw 51K’s. Matt Rozzell who is committed to Eastern Arizona is a talented outfielder that will be a key defensive asset. Jayce Jackson the High School Quarterback for the Eagles returns and hit .370 from the plate last year, Nate Carpenter (1B) who hit for .357, and newcomers include: Greg Lujan (OF), Cesar Garcia (2B), along with Tomas Martinez (C).
No. 2 Volcano Vista Hawks
Head Coach: Kevin Andersh
Last Year: 21-8
Preview: Volcano Vista went 21-8 last season reaching the 6A title game only to lose to Eldorado 9-0 in the finals. Ugly way to end the year, but with the returning talent they have that loss should provide plenty of motivation going into 2016, many expect the Hawks to be right in the thick of things again, our staff included in that regard. Head Coach Kevin Andersh has continued to develop top talent and this coming year he has some very exceptional senior leaders leading the way. Tanner West might be the best overall pitcher in New Mexico and is committed to play at Arizona State. Very dominate pitcher that can take control and keep control of any match up. Also retiring is Gabe Trujillo at catcher, one of the best in the Metro who is already committed to Eastern New Mexico. Jarrod Day is another name to watch and is committed to the University of the Southwest. Newcomers to watch incude: Chaz Smoyer, Isaac Samora, and Zach Santoru.
No. 3 Sandia Prep Sundevils
Head Coach: Paul Huitt
Last Year: 29-1
Preview: Straight loaded last year winning 29 out of 30 games, the only season game they lost was against Academy losing 3-2. On the season they beat St. Pius X, Rio Grande, Eunice, Portales, Farmington, St. Mike’s, Hope, then beat Silver, Bloomfield, and Ruidoso by a combined 27-6 in the playoffs. Could they really duplicate their outstanding season in 2016? It might be the case as they return a ton of talent making them a top 5 regardless of their 4A classification. They only graduate three, yes three seniors from last year’s team their biggest loss is Mikey Gangwish their All-State Center. Returning: Harris McConnell is a Class of 2016 Pitcher who was 8-1 last year with 51K’s, he also hit .323 from the plate. Beau Williams who is committed to Eastern New Mexico is a 6-foot-4 LHP/1B who was 7-0 on the mound and at the plate hit .393 and had 30 RBI’s. Joe Martinez LHP will be a rising junior, he is the pitcher who threw a perfect game in the 4A finals against Ruidoso, just an incredible athlete and should be one of the top 5 juniors in New Mexico this year. Mike Snow OF returns for his senior year, he hit .448 from the plate and 19 RBI’s, Garrett Cleavall IF returns as well and hit .365 with 18 RBI’s. Newcomers include: Sophomore Matthew Creagan 1B, Armando Trujillo 2B, and Tommy Sanchez OF.
No. 4 La Cueva Bears
Head Coach: Gerard Pineda
Last Year Record: 17-10
Preview: La Cueva still considered one of the top overall programs in New Mexico has won the state title in 2014, 2011, 2010, and in 2008 as of late. Last year ended in disappointment as the Bears were rocked 10-1 by District Rival Eldorado in the Semifinals losing 10-1. Obviously you never want your season to end, but losing by 9 runs leaves a bad taste in your mouth you would think. With that said, La Cueva will lose some big guns like Austin Bell, Caleb McAlister, Jacob Turcotte, Scott Ingle, Sean Alin, Wyatt Briggs, Andrew Pratt, and Jesse Becton. All gone, but it’s not like La Cueva has not graduated talent before, they reload and while these in-coming seniors and juniors are not well known, they are very good and as the season goes by, the Bears will be your typical Albuquerque Power you expect them to be. Returning into 2016 is Jonathan Stroman a 6-foot-3, 200 pound hard throwing junior who contributed in big fashion in 2015 as a sophomore. Expected big things from him, he is one of La Cueva’s better all-around athletes. Anthony Robles will be a key RHP this year and is committed to Eastern Arizona. Stone Romero who is committed to play at Lamar JC is a transfer from Hope Christian where he won a state championship and would of played varsity last season if he did not have to sit out due to transfer rules. Romero has really matured, improved, and will be an asset for La Cueva in 2016. Addional names to know include: Derek Trujillo who will be a very polished infielder, Derrick Gallegos is another rising senior to know, Junior Richard Ware will be a key UTIL. and Jack Pineda will be a sophomore that will likely start in the in-field. Once this team builds some chemistry, think they will be very tough to be come May.
No. 5 Hobbs Eagles
Head Coach: Marco Boyle
Last Year: 18-12
Preview: Top 5 team for the 2016 season? Yes. The Hobbs Eagles return quality experience and talent which puts them into our Preseason Fab 5. The Eagles made a run last year from the No. 9 seed upsetting Cleveland, then beating No. 1 Onate before falling to Volcano Vista in the semifinals losing 5-2. They return 16 lettermen from last year and are led by some outstanding seniors. Isaiah Tovar had a big year from the plate hitting .309 and 12 RBI’s and on the mound he was 7-4 with 56K’s. He is already committed to Eastern New Mexico. Also returning is one of the top middle infielders in New Mexico in Devin Beard who is committed to North Central Texas College. Beard hit .305 from the plate and had 12 RBI’s in 2015. Ty Marquez is another key pitcher returning and turned heads and glanced the front page of NMPreps.com last year when he closed the door on Onate. Jeremy Padilla is another name to know and while he is a top running back during the football season he is also a key catcher for the Eagles. Additional names to know include: Brevin Thompson, Jared Reber, Caden Smith, David Ortega, and Chris Castillo.
No. 6 Goddard Rockets
Head Coach: Alan Edmonson
Last Year: 26-5
Preview: As they were in 2015, Goddard is again loaded with talent and is our Preseason No. 1 Team in Class 5A. They won 26 games last year before losing to Academy 4-3 in a thrilling final at Lobo Field. This year, you have to think redemption is on their mind as they try to win that state baseball championship which has seemed to elude the program over the years. The Rockets have been the State Runner Up for the last two years in a row. Their last state baseball title: 1992. Yeah it’s been a while. They return 13 lettermen into the 2016 sea on and are led by some well known names. Class of 2017 Prospect Cal Villareal is a LHP that had a tremendous sophomore year and is already committed to New Mexico State. Gaylan Young is a seasoned in-fielder that makes few mistakes, he’ll provide the senior leadership, and also watch for Andrew Shanor IF who is committed to Wittenberg College. Derek Farmer is their returning all district Catcher and is very experienced. New names to know this year: Mitch Naylor SS, Nate Chaez OF, Roman Garcia IF, Luke Fink OF, Cole Wentland P, and Sophomore Cameron Stevenson who was the Rocket’s Quarterback during the football season. Getting to the state championship is no easy task, but this team has done it two-years in a row, making a run at the title game again would be the early prediction, it’s just hard not to like the Boys in Blue this year.
No. 7 Academy Chargers
Head Coach: Andrew Williams
Last Year: 23-6
Preview: Andrew Williams is one of the top up and coming Head Baseball Coaches in New Mexico and last year along with a good amount of senior and junior talent, the Chargers won the 2015 State Baseball 5A Title. It was the Chargers first state baseball championship since the the 2009 season. What is in store for the Chargers in 2016? Well, a successful year should be expected returning a great amount of talent. Watch for returner Seth Jones at the 1B and also as a RHP. Big kid with some power at the plate. Thomas Braybrooks a top IF/P from the Class of 2017. Last year as a sophomore he hit .333 from the plate and was 5-3 on the mound winning some key games for the Chargers. Also returning to the line up is Randall Gurule who is a quality outfielder who hit for .279 and came up with some well timed hits during the season. He was also 2-1 on the mound with 16K’s. Jacob Wyly is another name to know as a UTIL player who is committed to the University of the Southwest. Graduating big time talent like Joe Sava, Cody Volk, Ian Russell, Zeke Long, and Cody Crosby is going to leave voids throughout, but the Chargers should have enough experience and program prestige to carry the torch.
No. 8 Rio Rancho Rams
Head Coach: Ron Murphy
Last Year’s Record: 23-8
Preview: Rio Rancho Baseball has been an elite program under Ron Murphy yearly, no question about that. The Rams have won State Titles in 2007, 2009, and most recently in 2013 when they beat Sandia in a thrilling 4-3 final. The Rams won an incredible 23 games last year before coming up short against the eventual champs Eldorado losing just 2-1 in the semifinals. They graduate just 5 seniors from last and return quite a bit of talent as you would expect any top 10 team to do so. Marquee returns include: Catcher Chris Carr who missed most of last season with an injury, but he should be one of the best in the Metro this season. Willie Baez had a solid junior year and is committed to Otero JC. Also watch for seniors Noah Montano RHP, Jared Bock 1B, Noah Otero UTIL, and rising juniors such as Angelo Chavez, Teriq Levesque, and Nick Silcox.
No. 9 Sandia Matadors
Head Coach: John Gunther
Last Year’s Record: 15-13
The always dangerous Sandia Matadors should again be a team from the Metro Area that makes a strong run when we get close to the month of May. While they were just two games over .500 last year, they went down to Carlsbad as the No. 13 seed and shocked the Cavemen at the Corral wining a best of three series. Leading the way for the Matadors is two well known seniors in Drew Gillepsie and Jimmy Gallegos. Gillespie is one of the top short stops in New Mexico and last year hit for .315 with 15 RBIs and is already committed to New Mexico. Gallegos is a strong outfielder that hit .300 from the plate and 13 RBI’s and is committed to play football at New Mexico Highlands. Additional players to watch include: Michael Davis C, Brandon Yount P, Joe Laughrin IF, Dom Baca IF, Adam Biederwolf IF, in total Sandia returns 14 lettermen into the 2016 season.
No. 10 Carlsbad Cavemen
Head Coach: Cody May
Last Year’s Record: 18-9
Carlsbad’s last state championship trophy in baseball came in 2012 under Cody May. The Cavemen have continued to be a top program that produces top talent yearly and this year should be no different. Last year the Cavemen won 18 games, but were upset in round one of the playoffs losing to No. 12 seeded Sandia in a best of three series. Returning into the 2016 season is one of the top LHP in New Mexico in Junior Trevor Rogers aka the Big Lefty who is 6-foot-5 and 200 pounds. Also returning is Ryan Razo SS, Nick Hernandez OF, Damian Gomez UTIL, and Nate Arrington who is a rising sophomore. Expecting yet another strong year for Carlsbad, making a run at the district title is very likely.
11. Mayfield Trojans
Head Coach: Miguel Gomez
Last Year’s Record: 15-12
Despite finishing 15-12 last year Mayfield reached the quarterfinals of the playoffs where they lost to Rio Rancho 3-1 in the quarterfinals. A solid club last year and really they always are a tough program to beat every year. Last year they beat Hobbs, Rio Rancho, Las Cruces, Deming, and Clovis in the first round. They lost some good senior leadership, but return two top 60 players into the 2016 season. Watch for Gabe Castillo a catcher who is committed to New Mexico State, should be one of the best overall players in Las Cruces this year. Also Ethan Alvarado is a three year starter for the Trojans who is an outstanding middle infielder. Also returning is Louis Lombardi a big bat and LHP, Isaac Vance who is a key outfielder, and Nick Bueno also an outfielder.
12. Cleveland Storm
Head Coach: Shane Shallenberger
Last Year’s Record: 15-11
The Cleveland Storm ended the 2015 season losing 4 in a row. Losses to Volcano Vista and Rio Rancho in district play, then they lost to Hobbs 6-3 in the first round of the State Baseball Tournament. At some point you have to think that Cleveland becomes a yearly staple among top baseball programs, football and basketball programs each reached state title games in 2015. The Storm has only reached the Semifinals once in school history, but their returning starters could take the program to new heights. They return Riley Patterson a catcher who is committed to New Mexico JC, Justic Jackson who is a top 1B among the 6A elite, Landy Hayes will be a quality outfielder, and Treston Shallenberger will be one of the top freshmen in New Mexico, he was actually on varsity as an 8th grader in 2015. The District is loaded with talent, but we are expecting a strong season from the Storm, question makes loom regarding the bullpen. Returning Ace looks to be Mikal Rojas who is a 6-foot-3, 240 pound pitcher who had a strong year as a junior with a 4-0 record and a 1.73 era.
13. Piedra Vista Panthers
Head Coach: Mike McGaha
Last Year’s Record: 23-5
Preview: Piedra Vista Panther Baseball has reached the State Title in 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, and in 2009. Last year the Panthers won a total of 23 games before being upset by No. 8 seeding Artesia in the quarterfinals losing 9-6. It was the first time since 2008 that the Panthers were not playing for the State Title in baseball. No doubt McGaha has transformed Piedra Vista into an elite program, this year’s team should be right in the mix as usual. Returners include Logan Klunder UTIL, Elijah Gamboa IF, Sam Moody OF, and Andrew Caliendo who could be the Panther’s next D-1 commitment down the road. This team is going to lose yearly talent, replace the 2015 seniors will be tough, but it’s hard not to like tis group and think by season’s end they’ll be as good as anyone.
14. Los Alamos Hilltoppers
Head Coach: Michael Gill
Last Year’s Record: 23-7
Preview: The Hilltoppers reached the 5A semifinals during the 2015 season losing 9-4 to the Goddard Rockets. Winning 23 games is going to be tough to duplicate two years in a row, but Los Alamos should be around the same talent level as last year. Their big loss is Jared Mang, but they return two top 100 players in Lane Saunders LHP who will be a senior this year and is committed to Eastern New Mexico. They also return one of the best in New Mexico in Connor Mang who is committed to New Mexico, he’s simply one of the best hitters and infielders in New Mexico and a candidate for the NMPreps.com Mr. Baseball Award. Also keep tabs on Hunter Eaton at catcher, Jarrett Genero in the outfield, and Zealand Waltershied at the hot corner. The Hilltoppers open the season with a double header against Piedra Vista on February 27th.
No. 15 Onate Knights
Head Coach: David Reyes
Last Year’s Record: 25-4
Preview: The Knights put together one of the stronger seasons in all of 6A last year winning 25 games. Their upset loss to Hobbs in the quarterfinals losing 6-5 was crushing to this team as they were straight loaded with enough talent to win the whole thing. The bad news is the graduated 10 seniors from last year’s loaded roster including All-State Players like Roman Trujillo, Fernando Escapita, Fabian Reyes, and Taylor Serna. The good news is this program continues to reload, but who will step up in 20116? Mikey Avilucea, Marcos Lara, Tony Herrera, and Sophomore Angel Marquez are the only returning lettermen.
16. St. Pius X Sartans
Head Coach: Marc Hilton
Last Year’s Record: 15-12
Preview: The Sartans have to be hungry entering the 2016 season for a bit of redemption after losing to Centennial in the 1st round of the 2015 playoffs in three games. No doubt they had the talent to make a run to at least the Final 4, this year again hopes are high and experience wise this might be the Sartan’s best team in years. Senior Miles Hilton is a 4-year letterman and was an All-State selection in 2015. Watch for Hilton on the mound and in the in-field. Mitch Buffett had an outstanding season as a sophomore in 2015 and should be a top junior in New Mexico on the mound, he is committed to New Mexico State. Additional starters to watch include Justin Lotz a transfer from Volcano Vista, Matt Moleres at Short, CJ Bacheci at 2nd, Isaiah Chavez in the in-field, Ryan McGaha, and Mason Walker. Hard not to like this team’s chances going into the season.
17. Clovis Wildcats
Head Coach: Richard Cruce
Last Year’s Record: 18-11
Preview
Interested to see what Head Coach Richard Cruce can do with the program in year two. As a first year Head Coach he led the Clovis Wildcats to a 18-11 season, where the Wildcats reached the playoffs losing to Mayfield in a best of three series 2-1. They do lose key starters from last year Landon Williams and Matt Lanier, but they return enough talent to still win 15-16 games this season. Keaton Greenwalt hit for .286 last year and has already committed to play at Lubbock Christian after graduation. Multi sport athlete Kurt Kelley will serve as a quality 2nd basemen, watch for Daniel Gallegos to be their big arm, and Austin Adams who hit for .636 last year (leading the team) returns as a 4-year starter that you’ll see on the mound as well as in the outfield. Up and comers include Jace Piekorn and Cam Kuykendall.
18. Deming Wildcats
Head Coach: Fernando Holguin Jr.
Last Year’s Record: 17-12
Preview
Don’t think a lot of people realize that the Deming Wildcats defeated the Eldorado Eagles 4-1 in the first round of the State Playoffs and while they did lose the best of three series, that win reflected just how good Deming was in 2015. They were a very scrappy team with wins over Las Cruces and even beat Onate in district. This year Deming should again be dangerous with two marquee players returning in Dante Urrea and Hector Casas. Urrea was .494 at the plate with 27 RBI’s, Casas was was a 7 game winner on the mound. The Wildcats also return Lalo Lerma and watch for Sophomore Shane Mora to contribute.
19. Valley Vikings
Head Coach: Chad Kuhn
Last Year's Record 14-12
Preview
The Vikings finished second in District 5-6A last year behind Rio Grande going 5-3 in district play. While they are ranked No. 19 in the preseason by our staff at NMPreps.com the question is whether or not this new crop of seniors will rise up. The Vikings graduate 11 seniors, but return some notable names which should be able to keep Valley very competitive like usual. Watch for Michael Barboa who is a senior outfielder. As a junior Barboa hit .381 from the plate with 2 home runs and led the team in RBI's with 25. Additional names to watch for include Andrian Sanchez, Daniel Romero-Martinez, and Isaiah Chavez who is a top multi sport at athlete at Valley High School. Also keep an eye on Sophomore Ross Montoya who hit .353 and had 18 RBI's as just a freshmen last year.
20. Las Cruces Bulldawgs
Head Coach: Gil Padilla
Last Year’s Record: 13-15
Preview
The Bulldawgs went 13-15 last year losing in two games to Rio Rancho in the 2015 State Playoffs. This squad did win the St. Pius X Invite in 2015 and graduate just 5 seniors from last year’s roster. Key players include: New Mexico Lobo Football Commit Kameron Miller who hit 3 home runs last year, 6-foot-4 pitcher Sam Ellis who is a very underrated and unknown athlete, along with newcomers to watch like Tristin Lively who saw plenty of time as a freshman last year and Payton Ball who is an outstanding all around athlete.
21. Valencia Jaguars
Head Coach: Carlos Carrasco
Last Year’s record: 20-9
Preview: Gave the Academy Chargers all they could handle in the playoffs last year losing 9-8 and on the season they had impressive wins over Las Cruces, Cleveland, and Centennial. They did graduate 12 seniors and only 5 lettermen return into the 2016 season. Josue Ruiz who is committed to Eastern New Mexico is a middle in-fiddler who hit for .391 last year and 23 RBI’s. Hunter Wood who is also a senior was 2-0 in the mound last year with a 2.74 ERA. Also watch for Daniel Cable on the mound in 2016. Though they don’t return a ton, Head Coach Carlos Carrasco has brought laid a solid foundation and they are capable of making a strong in 2016. New names shouldn’t stop the success of the program.
22. Artesia Bulldogs
Head Coach: Lee Johnson
Last Year’s Record: 16-13
Preview: What a season these Bulldogs had in 2015 winning 16 games and beat Santa Teresa along with Piedra Vista in the playoffs. Their playoff exit was was ugly losing to Academy 13-2, but you have to like what this team has returning. Tristan Bowden is a Senior who is committed to Eastern New Mexico and as a junior he hit for .300 with 8 RBI’s and on the mound he was 5-4. Jharyss Granger is a power hitter out of the Class of 2017 that hit .402 and 21 RBI’s as just a sophomore last year, everyone should circle his name as one to watch. Additional names include: Dave Hooten who will be a junior pitcher and Taylor Null who will be a sophomore IF/P. A similar season to last year or even a step up is expected.
23. Centennial Hawks
Head Coach: Rusty Evans
Last Year’s Record: 15-14
Preview: These guys turned heads last year with an upset 2/1 win over the St. Pius X Sartans in the playoffs. Biggest series win in school history. The good news they return everyone on the roster from last year, everyone. Keep on eye on Catcher Cedric Reynaud who had a monster sophomore year hitting .453 from the plate and had a fielding percentage of .957, Jesse Watson who is a senior infielder committed to NMMI JC, and also watch for Karl Koerper at 1B along with Junior Pena who is a utility player. Maybe we ranked this experienced squad too low in the preseason?
24. Rio Grande Ravens
Head Coach: Orland Griego
Last Year’s Record: 12-14
Preview: It’s not easy for us to rank Rio Grande this low ever. However, they only won 12 games last year and were bounced in the playoffs by Volcano Vista in 2015. So what’s in store for the 2016 season? Good question: One we know that Orlando Griego is one of the top high school coaches in the Metro Area and we also know they didn’t have one senior on the roster last year. Names to keep tabs on include: Angelo Ortega OF, Dominic Blea OF, and Matthew Sanchez at 1B. Sleeper team? Likely.
25. Cibola Cougars
Head Coach: Ramon Gonzales
Last Year: 12-15
Preview: Didn’t have the ending they wanted getting blanked by a loaded Onate Team in the 1st round, but they have some good talent returning and should play spoiler in what we feel is the strongest baseball district in New Mexico. Returning for the Cougars is a big time RHP by the name of Jensen Lewis who is committed to New Mexico.
Our 2015/2016 Baseball Sponsor is Stoven Construction
We are 20 days away from the New Mexico High School Baseball Season and today we begin our NMPreps.com Top 25 Preseason Countdown to No. 1. Today we start by ranking teams 25-20, then leading up to February 1st, 2016 we'll release one team per day. We invite you to become a premium subscriber of NMPreps.com to view our complete and non-stop New Mexico High School Baseball Coverage.
Please do not post this information on social media sites. This is premium information, which should be available for playing members only. Thank you.
Our 2016 Baseball Sponsor is Stoven Construction
No. 1 Eldorado Eagles
Head Coach: Jim Johns
Last Year: 22-8
Preview: The Defending Class 6A State Champions ended the year simply on fire, they won their last 7 out of 8 games by a combine score of 77-13. That included wins over La Cueva in the quarterfinals winning 10-1 and beating Volcano Vista in the finals 9-0. They were just crushing the ball by seasons end. As any state championship team does, they graduate a good amount of senior talent losing: Craig Buzzard, Grant Beck, Andrew Stubbs, Austin Treadwell, and Zack May. Tough losses, but Head Baseball Coach Jim Johns who is one of the best teachers of the game in New Mexico (over 500 career victories as a coach) has some deep, deep talent returning into the 2016 season. Leading off with NMPreps.com Mr. Baseball Candidate Nate Garley (Committed to New Mexico). A 6-foot-3, 210 pond RHP/3B that is one of the hardest throwers in the state and also one of the biggest bats. Expecting a monster year from him. Last year he hit .429 from the plate with 26 RBI’s and was an incredible 7-1 on the mound with 87K’s. Garrett Ham also returns for the Eagles. Last year he was 6-5 on the mound in 13 appearances with 4 complete games and also threw 51K’s. Matt Rozzell who is committed to Eastern Arizona is a talented outfielder that will be a key defensive asset. Jayce Jackson the High School Quarterback for the Eagles returns and hit .370 from the plate last year, Nate Carpenter (1B) who hit for .357, and newcomers include: Greg Lujan (OF), Cesar Garcia (2B), along with Tomas Martinez (C).
No. 2 Volcano Vista Hawks
Head Coach: Kevin Andersh
Last Year: 21-8
Preview: Volcano Vista went 21-8 last season reaching the 6A title game only to lose to Eldorado 9-0 in the finals. Ugly way to end the year, but with the returning talent they have that loss should provide plenty of motivation going into 2016, many expect the Hawks to be right in the thick of things again, our staff included in that regard. Head Coach Kevin Andersh has continued to develop top talent and this coming year he has some very exceptional senior leaders leading the way. Tanner West might be the best overall pitcher in New Mexico and is committed to play at Arizona State. Very dominate pitcher that can take control and keep control of any match up. Also retiring is Gabe Trujillo at catcher, one of the best in the Metro who is already committed to Eastern New Mexico. Jarrod Day is another name to watch and is committed to the University of the Southwest. Newcomers to watch incude: Chaz Smoyer, Isaac Samora, and Zach Santoru.
No. 3 Sandia Prep Sundevils
Head Coach: Paul Huitt
Last Year: 29-1
Preview: Straight loaded last year winning 29 out of 30 games, the only season game they lost was against Academy losing 3-2. On the season they beat St. Pius X, Rio Grande, Eunice, Portales, Farmington, St. Mike’s, Hope, then beat Silver, Bloomfield, and Ruidoso by a combined 27-6 in the playoffs. Could they really duplicate their outstanding season in 2016? It might be the case as they return a ton of talent making them a top 5 regardless of their 4A classification. They only graduate three, yes three seniors from last year’s team their biggest loss is Mikey Gangwish their All-State Center. Returning: Harris McConnell is a Class of 2016 Pitcher who was 8-1 last year with 51K’s, he also hit .323 from the plate. Beau Williams who is committed to Eastern New Mexico is a 6-foot-4 LHP/1B who was 7-0 on the mound and at the plate hit .393 and had 30 RBI’s. Joe Martinez LHP will be a rising junior, he is the pitcher who threw a perfect game in the 4A finals against Ruidoso, just an incredible athlete and should be one of the top 5 juniors in New Mexico this year. Mike Snow OF returns for his senior year, he hit .448 from the plate and 19 RBI’s, Garrett Cleavall IF returns as well and hit .365 with 18 RBI’s. Newcomers include: Sophomore Matthew Creagan 1B, Armando Trujillo 2B, and Tommy Sanchez OF.
No. 4 La Cueva Bears
Head Coach: Gerard Pineda
Last Year Record: 17-10
Preview: La Cueva still considered one of the top overall programs in New Mexico has won the state title in 2014, 2011, 2010, and in 2008 as of late. Last year ended in disappointment as the Bears were rocked 10-1 by District Rival Eldorado in the Semifinals losing 10-1. Obviously you never want your season to end, but losing by 9 runs leaves a bad taste in your mouth you would think. With that said, La Cueva will lose some big guns like Austin Bell, Caleb McAlister, Jacob Turcotte, Scott Ingle, Sean Alin, Wyatt Briggs, Andrew Pratt, and Jesse Becton. All gone, but it’s not like La Cueva has not graduated talent before, they reload and while these in-coming seniors and juniors are not well known, they are very good and as the season goes by, the Bears will be your typical Albuquerque Power you expect them to be. Returning into 2016 is Jonathan Stroman a 6-foot-3, 200 pound hard throwing junior who contributed in big fashion in 2015 as a sophomore. Expected big things from him, he is one of La Cueva’s better all-around athletes. Anthony Robles will be a key RHP this year and is committed to Eastern Arizona. Stone Romero who is committed to play at Lamar JC is a transfer from Hope Christian where he won a state championship and would of played varsity last season if he did not have to sit out due to transfer rules. Romero has really matured, improved, and will be an asset for La Cueva in 2016. Addional names to know include: Derek Trujillo who will be a very polished infielder, Derrick Gallegos is another rising senior to know, Junior Richard Ware will be a key UTIL. and Jack Pineda will be a sophomore that will likely start in the in-field. Once this team builds some chemistry, think they will be very tough to be come May.
No. 5 Hobbs Eagles
Head Coach: Marco Boyle
Last Year: 18-12
Preview: Top 5 team for the 2016 season? Yes. The Hobbs Eagles return quality experience and talent which puts them into our Preseason Fab 5. The Eagles made a run last year from the No. 9 seed upsetting Cleveland, then beating No. 1 Onate before falling to Volcano Vista in the semifinals losing 5-2. They return 16 lettermen from last year and are led by some outstanding seniors. Isaiah Tovar had a big year from the plate hitting .309 and 12 RBI’s and on the mound he was 7-4 with 56K’s. He is already committed to Eastern New Mexico. Also returning is one of the top middle infielders in New Mexico in Devin Beard who is committed to North Central Texas College. Beard hit .305 from the plate and had 12 RBI’s in 2015. Ty Marquez is another key pitcher returning and turned heads and glanced the front page of NMPreps.com last year when he closed the door on Onate. Jeremy Padilla is another name to know and while he is a top running back during the football season he is also a key catcher for the Eagles. Additional names to know include: Brevin Thompson, Jared Reber, Caden Smith, David Ortega, and Chris Castillo.
No. 6 Goddard Rockets
Head Coach: Alan Edmonson
Last Year: 26-5
Preview: As they were in 2015, Goddard is again loaded with talent and is our Preseason No. 1 Team in Class 5A. They won 26 games last year before losing to Academy 4-3 in a thrilling final at Lobo Field. This year, you have to think redemption is on their mind as they try to win that state baseball championship which has seemed to elude the program over the years. The Rockets have been the State Runner Up for the last two years in a row. Their last state baseball title: 1992. Yeah it’s been a while. They return 13 lettermen into the 2016 sea on and are led by some well known names. Class of 2017 Prospect Cal Villareal is a LHP that had a tremendous sophomore year and is already committed to New Mexico State. Gaylan Young is a seasoned in-fielder that makes few mistakes, he’ll provide the senior leadership, and also watch for Andrew Shanor IF who is committed to Wittenberg College. Derek Farmer is their returning all district Catcher and is very experienced. New names to know this year: Mitch Naylor SS, Nate Chaez OF, Roman Garcia IF, Luke Fink OF, Cole Wentland P, and Sophomore Cameron Stevenson who was the Rocket’s Quarterback during the football season. Getting to the state championship is no easy task, but this team has done it two-years in a row, making a run at the title game again would be the early prediction, it’s just hard not to like the Boys in Blue this year.
No. 7 Academy Chargers
Head Coach: Andrew Williams
Last Year: 23-6
Preview: Andrew Williams is one of the top up and coming Head Baseball Coaches in New Mexico and last year along with a good amount of senior and junior talent, the Chargers won the 2015 State Baseball 5A Title. It was the Chargers first state baseball championship since the the 2009 season. What is in store for the Chargers in 2016? Well, a successful year should be expected returning a great amount of talent. Watch for returner Seth Jones at the 1B and also as a RHP. Big kid with some power at the plate. Thomas Braybrooks a top IF/P from the Class of 2017. Last year as a sophomore he hit .333 from the plate and was 5-3 on the mound winning some key games for the Chargers. Also returning to the line up is Randall Gurule who is a quality outfielder who hit for .279 and came up with some well timed hits during the season. He was also 2-1 on the mound with 16K’s. Jacob Wyly is another name to know as a UTIL player who is committed to the University of the Southwest. Graduating big time talent like Joe Sava, Cody Volk, Ian Russell, Zeke Long, and Cody Crosby is going to leave voids throughout, but the Chargers should have enough experience and program prestige to carry the torch.
No. 8 Rio Rancho Rams
Head Coach: Ron Murphy
Last Year’s Record: 23-8
Preview: Rio Rancho Baseball has been an elite program under Ron Murphy yearly, no question about that. The Rams have won State Titles in 2007, 2009, and most recently in 2013 when they beat Sandia in a thrilling 4-3 final. The Rams won an incredible 23 games last year before coming up short against the eventual champs Eldorado losing just 2-1 in the semifinals. They graduate just 5 seniors from last and return quite a bit of talent as you would expect any top 10 team to do so. Marquee returns include: Catcher Chris Carr who missed most of last season with an injury, but he should be one of the best in the Metro this season. Willie Baez had a solid junior year and is committed to Otero JC. Also watch for seniors Noah Montano RHP, Jared Bock 1B, Noah Otero UTIL, and rising juniors such as Angelo Chavez, Teriq Levesque, and Nick Silcox.
No. 9 Sandia Matadors
Head Coach: John Gunther
Last Year’s Record: 15-13
The always dangerous Sandia Matadors should again be a team from the Metro Area that makes a strong run when we get close to the month of May. While they were just two games over .500 last year, they went down to Carlsbad as the No. 13 seed and shocked the Cavemen at the Corral wining a best of three series. Leading the way for the Matadors is two well known seniors in Drew Gillepsie and Jimmy Gallegos. Gillespie is one of the top short stops in New Mexico and last year hit for .315 with 15 RBIs and is already committed to New Mexico. Gallegos is a strong outfielder that hit .300 from the plate and 13 RBI’s and is committed to play football at New Mexico Highlands. Additional players to watch include: Michael Davis C, Brandon Yount P, Joe Laughrin IF, Dom Baca IF, Adam Biederwolf IF, in total Sandia returns 14 lettermen into the 2016 season.
No. 10 Carlsbad Cavemen
Head Coach: Cody May
Last Year’s Record: 18-9
Carlsbad’s last state championship trophy in baseball came in 2012 under Cody May. The Cavemen have continued to be a top program that produces top talent yearly and this year should be no different. Last year the Cavemen won 18 games, but were upset in round one of the playoffs losing to No. 12 seeded Sandia in a best of three series. Returning into the 2016 season is one of the top LHP in New Mexico in Junior Trevor Rogers aka the Big Lefty who is 6-foot-5 and 200 pounds. Also returning is Ryan Razo SS, Nick Hernandez OF, Damian Gomez UTIL, and Nate Arrington who is a rising sophomore. Expecting yet another strong year for Carlsbad, making a run at the district title is very likely.
11. Mayfield Trojans
Head Coach: Miguel Gomez
Last Year’s Record: 15-12
Despite finishing 15-12 last year Mayfield reached the quarterfinals of the playoffs where they lost to Rio Rancho 3-1 in the quarterfinals. A solid club last year and really they always are a tough program to beat every year. Last year they beat Hobbs, Rio Rancho, Las Cruces, Deming, and Clovis in the first round. They lost some good senior leadership, but return two top 60 players into the 2016 season. Watch for Gabe Castillo a catcher who is committed to New Mexico State, should be one of the best overall players in Las Cruces this year. Also Ethan Alvarado is a three year starter for the Trojans who is an outstanding middle infielder. Also returning is Louis Lombardi a big bat and LHP, Isaac Vance who is a key outfielder, and Nick Bueno also an outfielder.
12. Cleveland Storm
Head Coach: Shane Shallenberger
Last Year’s Record: 15-11
The Cleveland Storm ended the 2015 season losing 4 in a row. Losses to Volcano Vista and Rio Rancho in district play, then they lost to Hobbs 6-3 in the first round of the State Baseball Tournament. At some point you have to think that Cleveland becomes a yearly staple among top baseball programs, football and basketball programs each reached state title games in 2015. The Storm has only reached the Semifinals once in school history, but their returning starters could take the program to new heights. They return Riley Patterson a catcher who is committed to New Mexico JC, Justic Jackson who is a top 1B among the 6A elite, Landy Hayes will be a quality outfielder, and Treston Shallenberger will be one of the top freshmen in New Mexico, he was actually on varsity as an 8th grader in 2015. The District is loaded with talent, but we are expecting a strong season from the Storm, question makes loom regarding the bullpen. Returning Ace looks to be Mikal Rojas who is a 6-foot-3, 240 pound pitcher who had a strong year as a junior with a 4-0 record and a 1.73 era.
13. Piedra Vista Panthers
Head Coach: Mike McGaha
Last Year’s Record: 23-5
Preview: Piedra Vista Panther Baseball has reached the State Title in 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, and in 2009. Last year the Panthers won a total of 23 games before being upset by No. 8 seeding Artesia in the quarterfinals losing 9-6. It was the first time since 2008 that the Panthers were not playing for the State Title in baseball. No doubt McGaha has transformed Piedra Vista into an elite program, this year’s team should be right in the mix as usual. Returners include Logan Klunder UTIL, Elijah Gamboa IF, Sam Moody OF, and Andrew Caliendo who could be the Panther’s next D-1 commitment down the road. This team is going to lose yearly talent, replace the 2015 seniors will be tough, but it’s hard not to like tis group and think by season’s end they’ll be as good as anyone.
14. Los Alamos Hilltoppers
Head Coach: Michael Gill
Last Year’s Record: 23-7
Preview: The Hilltoppers reached the 5A semifinals during the 2015 season losing 9-4 to the Goddard Rockets. Winning 23 games is going to be tough to duplicate two years in a row, but Los Alamos should be around the same talent level as last year. Their big loss is Jared Mang, but they return two top 100 players in Lane Saunders LHP who will be a senior this year and is committed to Eastern New Mexico. They also return one of the best in New Mexico in Connor Mang who is committed to New Mexico, he’s simply one of the best hitters and infielders in New Mexico and a candidate for the NMPreps.com Mr. Baseball Award. Also keep tabs on Hunter Eaton at catcher, Jarrett Genero in the outfield, and Zealand Waltershied at the hot corner. The Hilltoppers open the season with a double header against Piedra Vista on February 27th.
No. 15 Onate Knights
Head Coach: David Reyes
Last Year’s Record: 25-4
Preview: The Knights put together one of the stronger seasons in all of 6A last year winning 25 games. Their upset loss to Hobbs in the quarterfinals losing 6-5 was crushing to this team as they were straight loaded with enough talent to win the whole thing. The bad news is the graduated 10 seniors from last year’s loaded roster including All-State Players like Roman Trujillo, Fernando Escapita, Fabian Reyes, and Taylor Serna. The good news is this program continues to reload, but who will step up in 20116? Mikey Avilucea, Marcos Lara, Tony Herrera, and Sophomore Angel Marquez are the only returning lettermen.
16. St. Pius X Sartans
Head Coach: Marc Hilton
Last Year’s Record: 15-12
Preview: The Sartans have to be hungry entering the 2016 season for a bit of redemption after losing to Centennial in the 1st round of the 2015 playoffs in three games. No doubt they had the talent to make a run to at least the Final 4, this year again hopes are high and experience wise this might be the Sartan’s best team in years. Senior Miles Hilton is a 4-year letterman and was an All-State selection in 2015. Watch for Hilton on the mound and in the in-field. Mitch Buffett had an outstanding season as a sophomore in 2015 and should be a top junior in New Mexico on the mound, he is committed to New Mexico State. Additional starters to watch include Justin Lotz a transfer from Volcano Vista, Matt Moleres at Short, CJ Bacheci at 2nd, Isaiah Chavez in the in-field, Ryan McGaha, and Mason Walker. Hard not to like this team’s chances going into the season.
17. Clovis Wildcats
Head Coach: Richard Cruce
Last Year’s Record: 18-11
Preview
Interested to see what Head Coach Richard Cruce can do with the program in year two. As a first year Head Coach he led the Clovis Wildcats to a 18-11 season, where the Wildcats reached the playoffs losing to Mayfield in a best of three series 2-1. They do lose key starters from last year Landon Williams and Matt Lanier, but they return enough talent to still win 15-16 games this season. Keaton Greenwalt hit for .286 last year and has already committed to play at Lubbock Christian after graduation. Multi sport athlete Kurt Kelley will serve as a quality 2nd basemen, watch for Daniel Gallegos to be their big arm, and Austin Adams who hit for .636 last year (leading the team) returns as a 4-year starter that you’ll see on the mound as well as in the outfield. Up and comers include Jace Piekorn and Cam Kuykendall.
18. Deming Wildcats
Head Coach: Fernando Holguin Jr.
Last Year’s Record: 17-12
Preview
Don’t think a lot of people realize that the Deming Wildcats defeated the Eldorado Eagles 4-1 in the first round of the State Playoffs and while they did lose the best of three series, that win reflected just how good Deming was in 2015. They were a very scrappy team with wins over Las Cruces and even beat Onate in district. This year Deming should again be dangerous with two marquee players returning in Dante Urrea and Hector Casas. Urrea was .494 at the plate with 27 RBI’s, Casas was was a 7 game winner on the mound. The Wildcats also return Lalo Lerma and watch for Sophomore Shane Mora to contribute.
19. Valley Vikings
Head Coach: Chad Kuhn
Last Year's Record 14-12
Preview
The Vikings finished second in District 5-6A last year behind Rio Grande going 5-3 in district play. While they are ranked No. 19 in the preseason by our staff at NMPreps.com the question is whether or not this new crop of seniors will rise up. The Vikings graduate 11 seniors, but return some notable names which should be able to keep Valley very competitive like usual. Watch for Michael Barboa who is a senior outfielder. As a junior Barboa hit .381 from the plate with 2 home runs and led the team in RBI's with 25. Additional names to watch for include Andrian Sanchez, Daniel Romero-Martinez, and Isaiah Chavez who is a top multi sport at athlete at Valley High School. Also keep an eye on Sophomore Ross Montoya who hit .353 and had 18 RBI's as just a freshmen last year.
20. Las Cruces Bulldawgs
Head Coach: Gil Padilla
Last Year’s Record: 13-15
Preview
The Bulldawgs went 13-15 last year losing in two games to Rio Rancho in the 2015 State Playoffs. This squad did win the St. Pius X Invite in 2015 and graduate just 5 seniors from last year’s roster. Key players include: New Mexico Lobo Football Commit Kameron Miller who hit 3 home runs last year, 6-foot-4 pitcher Sam Ellis who is a very underrated and unknown athlete, along with newcomers to watch like Tristin Lively who saw plenty of time as a freshman last year and Payton Ball who is an outstanding all around athlete.
21. Valencia Jaguars
Head Coach: Carlos Carrasco
Last Year’s record: 20-9
Preview: Gave the Academy Chargers all they could handle in the playoffs last year losing 9-8 and on the season they had impressive wins over Las Cruces, Cleveland, and Centennial. They did graduate 12 seniors and only 5 lettermen return into the 2016 season. Josue Ruiz who is committed to Eastern New Mexico is a middle in-fiddler who hit for .391 last year and 23 RBI’s. Hunter Wood who is also a senior was 2-0 in the mound last year with a 2.74 ERA. Also watch for Daniel Cable on the mound in 2016. Though they don’t return a ton, Head Coach Carlos Carrasco has brought laid a solid foundation and they are capable of making a strong in 2016. New names shouldn’t stop the success of the program.
22. Artesia Bulldogs
Head Coach: Lee Johnson
Last Year’s Record: 16-13
Preview: What a season these Bulldogs had in 2015 winning 16 games and beat Santa Teresa along with Piedra Vista in the playoffs. Their playoff exit was was ugly losing to Academy 13-2, but you have to like what this team has returning. Tristan Bowden is a Senior who is committed to Eastern New Mexico and as a junior he hit for .300 with 8 RBI’s and on the mound he was 5-4. Jharyss Granger is a power hitter out of the Class of 2017 that hit .402 and 21 RBI’s as just a sophomore last year, everyone should circle his name as one to watch. Additional names include: Dave Hooten who will be a junior pitcher and Taylor Null who will be a sophomore IF/P. A similar season to last year or even a step up is expected.
23. Centennial Hawks
Head Coach: Rusty Evans
Last Year’s Record: 15-14
Preview: These guys turned heads last year with an upset 2/1 win over the St. Pius X Sartans in the playoffs. Biggest series win in school history. The good news they return everyone on the roster from last year, everyone. Keep on eye on Catcher Cedric Reynaud who had a monster sophomore year hitting .453 from the plate and had a fielding percentage of .957, Jesse Watson who is a senior infielder committed to NMMI JC, and also watch for Karl Koerper at 1B along with Junior Pena who is a utility player. Maybe we ranked this experienced squad too low in the preseason?
24. Rio Grande Ravens
Head Coach: Orland Griego
Last Year’s Record: 12-14
Preview: It’s not easy for us to rank Rio Grande this low ever. However, they only won 12 games last year and were bounced in the playoffs by Volcano Vista in 2015. So what’s in store for the 2016 season? Good question: One we know that Orlando Griego is one of the top high school coaches in the Metro Area and we also know they didn’t have one senior on the roster last year. Names to keep tabs on include: Angelo Ortega OF, Dominic Blea OF, and Matthew Sanchez at 1B. Sleeper team? Likely.
25. Cibola Cougars
Head Coach: Ramon Gonzales
Last Year: 12-15
Preview: Didn’t have the ending they wanted getting blanked by a loaded Onate Team in the 1st round, but they have some good talent returning and should play spoiler in what we feel is the strongest baseball district in New Mexico. Returning for the Cougars is a big time RHP by the name of Jensen Lewis who is committed to New Mexico.
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