With the New Balance Baseball Future Stars Series powered by Program 15 heading into the North Carolina area for the first time, a “quality over quantity” approach is being taken at the latest Regional Combine that’s set to be held at Ting Park in Holly Springs on Friday.
A pair of 2022 grads with prior experience at big FSS events, Mason Balsis and Griffin Stieg, are set to a headline a smaller group that’s scheduled to try to make their names not far from the shadow of nearby Raleigh.
“I am so excited to get back out there at a FSS event,” Balsis told FutureStarsSeries.com “Jeremy Booth and his staff are phenomenal. One of my favorite things about these events is the constant instruction we receive. It’s an amazing experience and I enjoy getting to know and learn from the coaches and players.”
Balsis is a Middle Tennessee State commit who attended both the Underclass and National Combines this past summer in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and impressed the staff with his work ethic and attitude. The talented catcher memorably ended an inning at the Underclass event by throwing a runner out, and also collected a few hits at the plate as well.
“Since last seeing you guys last year, I have really focused on my swing, as well as improving my recieving and footwork as a catcher,” he said. “I have been working privately with a Pilates instructor focusing on mobility, control and good body mechanics. I’m looking forward to being on the field with some of the best players in the country, and I’m anxious to get feedback from the coaches, learn new skills and have some fun. The exposure is also really exciting.”
As for Steig, the Virginia Tech commit hit this memorable home run at the inaugural Underclass Combine, but the noteworthy talent at the event isn’t limited to just those two. A ton of players who already have big college commitments are scheduled to attend, including 2022 Luke Hanson – Virginia, 2022 Matt Heavner – NC State, 2021 Caleb Ketchie – UNC Charlotte, 2024 Cole Lanford – NC State, 2022 Cannon Peebles – Old Dominion and 2022 Ty Torti – Penn St.
In addition, uncommitted talent like 2024 Gabe Adams, 2022 Kristian Barcroft, 2025 Ajonte Bullock, 2022 Brock Fowler and 2022 Lucas Manning are sure to catch the eye of FSS staff as well.
