Recruiting Class Ranked Top 25 by Baseball America

PROVO - Baseball America named BYU baseball's 2019 recruiting class No. 25 in the nation, the Cougars' highest ever ranking. 

The Cougars were the only program from a non-Power 5 conference to make the list. BYU signed 11 players last fall to add to a team that won the West Coast Conference title and was ranked in the national Top 25 last season.

See below for what Baseball America had to say about the Cougars:

Overview: Headlined by three exciting prep pitchers, BYU landed its first-ever Top 25 class and what might be the best recruiting class in program history. While the top end is eye-catching, there’s solid depth to the class, which the Cougars hope can propel them to the next level as a program.

Hitters: Outfielder Hayden Leatham put up big numbers the last two years at the JC of Southern Idaho and brings a powerful bat to Provo. He played center field in junior college but fits better at right field for BYU. Brock Watkins has a powerful bat and good hands on the infield. Hunter Swapp is a physical, toolsy outfielder, comparable to former Cougar Brennon Lund. He’s not as advanced as some of his classmates but will provide an impact bat in time. Shortstop Peyton Cole, the younger brother of Angels righthander Taylor Cole, is a long, lean lefthanded hitter who has exciting potential. Outfielder McKay Barney is a well above-average runner and was a finalist for Arizona player of the year after an impressive senior year. His speed plays well on the bases and in the outfield. Shortstop Andrew PIntar is a solid defender with a strong arm, which he shows off on the mound as well. He can run his fastball up to 94 mph, giving him two-way potential.

Pitchers: BYU loaded up on pitching in this class, grabbing three arms who have big upside and should be able to quickly contribute. Heaton may have the most upside of the group. He has advanced pitchability and already throws his fastball in the low 90s with a chance for more velocity as he physically matures. Lefthander Cy Nielson ran his fastball into the mid-90s late in the spring and mixes in a promising breaking ball. He is reminiscent of Giants prospect Seth Corry, a former BYU signee. Lefthander Cutter Clawson has a strong build and a promising three-pitch mix who came on strong over the last year. His fastball gets into the low 90s now, and he shows some feel for both his breaking ball and changeup. Righthander Carter Smith throws his fastball in the low 90s and still has some projection to his frame. Righthander Bryce Robison is undersized for a righthander but throws a lot of strikes and has a strong track record, giving him a chance to quickly earn a role on the staff. Righthander Mikade Johnson has a projectable 6-foot-6 frame and can run his fastball into the mid-90s. He was banged up this spring but, if he can bounce back, gives the class another high-upside arm.