Arkansas State baseball has been making waves in the recruiting world. Just over two months after adding 31 players for the 2025 campaign, head coach Mike Silva announced five more additions to the 2026 roster on Monday. This latest batch of recruits is set to bring a new level of talent and excitement to the program.

Coach's Commendation and Expectations

Silva began by commending his staff for their efforts over the past couple of months. He emphasized their goal of bringing in players who could make an immediate impact straight out of high school. The signees, he believes, are ready to step up and contribute from day one. "We look forward to getting them on campus next summer and getting to work," he said.

Tatem Telfer: The Left-Handed Pitching Prospect

Tatem Telfer signed with A-State out of Mid-Prairie High School. He quickly became the top left-handed pitching prospect in Iowa according to Perfect Game. In his first season with the Golden Hawks, he was named the 2024 River Valley Conference Player of the Year. He finished inside the league's top five in 14 different categories. Telfer struck out a conference-leading 70 batters and allowed only two hits, holding opponents to a meager.024 batting average. This impressive performance earned him a First-Team All-Conference selection as a pitcher. At the plate, he led the conference with five home runs and 31 RBIs. His combination of pitching and hitting skills makes him a valuable asset to the Red Wolves.

Drew Gartman: The Promising Shortstop

Drew Gartman, ranked as the fifth-best shortstop in Arkansas by Perfect Game, will don the Scarlet and Black after his senior campaign. In 2024, he helped lead Valley View to a Class 5A state championship. Over the summer, he joined the Sticks/White Sox Scout Team 17U Brewster. Gartman earned a PG grade of nine from scouts, which is a testament to his potential as a top 10 round pick and a high-level college prospect. His skills on the field are sure to make an impact at Arkansas State.

Will Leslie: The Right-Handed Pitcher

Right-handed pitcher Will Leslie signed with the Red Wolves out of Cabot High School. He made a state semifinal appearance in 2024 and was recently ranked as the 25th-best prospect in Arkansas by Perfect Game. He participated in the 2024 17U WWBA Mid-South Regionals and earned All-Tournament Team recognition. Leslie's pitching ability and potential make him a key addition to the Arkansas State pitching staff.

Derek Martinez: The Versatile First Baseman and Catcher

2024 Perfect Game Preseason All-American and All-Region selection Derek Martinez joined the program out of TNXL Academy in Ocoee, Florida. He is ranked as the 36th-best first baseman by Perfect Game and also plays catcher, adding another utility piece to the Red Wolves. Martinez last played at the 2024 PG WWBA World Championship in October and earned All-Tournament honors. His versatility and talent will be a valuable asset to the team.

Joey McLaughlin: The Oklahoma Powerhouse

Joey McLaughlin signed with A-State after a strong junior campaign at Harrah High School. He is ranked as the 26th-best prospect in Oklahoma by Perfect Game and posted a.429 batting average and 1.429 OPS along with eight home runs and 30 RBIs. His last appearance on the diamond was at the 2024 17/18U Oklahoma Championship at OU. McLaughlin's offensive prowess is sure to make him a fan favorite and a key contributor to the Arkansas State lineup.SOCIAL MEDIAFor the latest on the A-State baseball program, follow @AStateBaseball on Twitter/X and @astatebaseball on Instagram, while also liking Arkansas State Baseball on Facebook.To report a typo or correction, please click here.Copyright 2024 KAIT. All rights reserved.