Josh Hammond, RHP/3B, Wesleyan Christian (NC) Shows Versatile Skills Ahead of 2025 Draft
Josh Hammond is turning heads as a standout two-way player from Wesleyan Christian Academy in North Carolina. The 6’1″ right-handed pitcher and third baseman brings a powerful frame and versatile skill set that’s drawing attention from MLB scouts ahead of the 2025 draft.
Hammond displays the rare ability to impact the game both on the mound and at the plate. His build is reminiscent of former North Carolina prep standout Nolan McLean.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Josh has developed into one of the more intriguing prospects in next year’s draft class. His latest batting practice session, captured at a recent showcase, demonstrated his impressive power potential, while his pitching mechanics have scouts projecting substantial upside.
The two-way talent has shown promise at shortstop as well, though most evaluators see his future at third base or on the mound.
| Josh Hammond | Class of 2025 |
|---|---|
| Position | RHP/3B |
| Height | 6’1″ |
| Weight | 215 lbs |
| School | Wesleyan Christian Academy (NC) |
| Bats/Throws | Right/Right |
Contents
Josh Hammond’s Early Years and Background
Josh Hammond’s journey to becoming a notable baseball prospect began in High Point, North Carolina, where his athletic frame and natural abilities developed early on. His path to Wesleyan Christian Academy would lay the foundation for his emergence as a talented right-handed pitcher and third baseman.
Family and Hometown Influence
High Point, North Carolina molded Josh Hammond into the prospect we see today. The city, known for its furniture manufacturing heritage, has also produced its share of athletic talent.
Standing 6’1″ with a solid 215-pound frame, Hammond’s physical development didn’t happen by accident. Local baseball programs in the High Point area provided Hammond with early opportunities to showcase his skills. The community’s strong baseball tradition likely played a significant role in his development.
His family’s support system appears to have been crucial, though specific details about family members remain limited in public profiles.
Introduction to Baseball
Hammond’s baseball journey led him to Wesleyan Christian Academy in High Point, where he developed into a two-way player with significant upside.
| Player Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Josh Hammond |
| Position | RHP/3B |
| Bats/Throws | R/R |
| Height/Weight | 6’1″, 215 lbs |
| School | Wesleyan Christian Academy |
Hammond’s powerful build suggests early dedication to strength training. His development as a right-handed pitcher with a complementary ability to play third base indicates versatility that MLB scouts typically value.
His draft stock for 2025 continues to rise, with some analysts ranking him at #77 among draft prospects. His commitment status remains one to watch as the 2025 MLB Draft approaches.
High School Career at Wesleyan Christian
Josh Hammond has established himself as a standout prospect at Wesleyan Christian Academy in High Point, North Carolina. His powerful frame and dual-position capabilities have made him a valuable asset for the Trojans’ baseball program.
Notable Accomplishments
Hammond’s imposing 6’1″, 215-pound frame has turned heads at Wesleyan Christian. The right-hander has developed into one of the most promising prospects in North Carolina, earning recognition as a top-ranked player in the state.
His versatility has been on display throughout his time with the Trojans, where he’s excelled as both a pitcher and position player. Hammond wears jersey #4 and has become known for his athletic abilities despite his larger build.
Baseball scouts have taken notice of Hammond’s development, with his draft stock rising ahead of the 2025 MLB Draft. His powerful arm and corner infield capabilities make him an intriguing prospect for professional organizations.
Statistics and Performance
Hammond has put together impressive numbers that place him among the elite players in his classification. He ranks in the top 95 nationally in one statistical category, while also ranking in the top 14 in North Carolina and leading the NCISAA 4A in another category.
Player Profile:
| Position | Height | Weight | Bats/Throws |
|---|---|---|---|
| RHP/3B/SS | 6’0″ | 198 lbs | R/R |
Hammond’s pitching has been his calling card, with a developing arsenal that has overwhelmed high school hitters. His strikeout numbers have impressed evaluators, and his ERA has remained consistently strong against quality competition in the competitive North Carolina private school circuit.
At the plate, he’s leveraged his strength to produce solid offensive numbers for the Trojans. His ability to contribute on both sides of the ball has made him one of the most valuable players in the NCISAA 4A classification.
Recruitment and Commitment
Josh Hammond’s baseball journey has attracted significant attention from top collegiate programs across the country. His impressive skills both on the mound and at third base have made him a highly sought-after recruit in the 2025 class.
College Prospects and Scouting Reports
Hammond’s recruitment took off after his sophomore season when he displayed remarkable versatility as a two-way player. His powerful 6’1″, 205-210 pound frame and athletic build caught scouts’ attention early.
Several ACC programs expressed serious interest in Hammond, with Wake Forest, North Carolina State, and Louisville emerging as frontrunners. His 55-grade fastball and 50-grade curveball particularly impressed college recruiters.
Perfect Game USA rated Hammond highly among 2025 prospects, noting his broad, athletic frame and two-way potential. His stock rose further after being named Prep Baseball NC Player of the Week in late March 2025.
Commitment to Further Education
Hammond ultimately committed to Wake Forest, choosing the Demon Deacons over other prestigious programs. The decision aligned perfectly with his academic and athletic goals.
Wake Forest’s strong baseball program and excellent academic reputation provided Hammond the balance he sought. Their development of pitchers particularly appealed to him as he looks to refine his skills on the mound.
Player Profile:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’1″ |
| Weight | 205-210 lbs |
| Bats | Right |
| Throws | Right |
| Position | RHP/3B |
| Commitment | Wake Forest |
His MLB draft prospects continue to rise, with Hammond currently projected as a potential top-100 selection. However, his commitment to Wake Forest suggests he values the collegiate experience and development opportunity before potentially pursuing professional baseball.
Positional Analysis
Josh Hammond brings versatility to the field with his dual-position capabilities. His development as both a pitcher and infielder gives teams flexibility when considering his future path.
Josh Hammond as a Right-Handed Pitcher (RHP)
On the mound, Hammond shows promise with his developing arsenal. Standing at 6’1″, he generates good downhill plane on his fastball that typically sits in the low-90s. His mechanics are clean and repeatable, something MLB scouts have noted during their evaluations.
Hammond’s breaking ball shows tight rotation with late movement, making it an effective out pitch at the high school level. His command continues to improve, particularly with his secondary offerings.
What impresses coaches most is his poise. Hammond doesn’t get rattled in high-pressure situations, maintaining his composure even when runners reach base.
His pitch mix and arm strength project well for the next level, though he’ll need to continue developing a reliable third pitch to remain a starter long-term.
| Pitching Stats | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’0″ |
| Weight | 197.5 lbs |
| Throws | Right |
| Top Velocity | Low-90s |
| Secondary Pitches | Breaking ball, developing changeup |
Josh Hammond as a Third Baseman (3B)
At third base, Hammond showcases raw power that stands out more than his pure hitting ability. His right-handed swing generates excellent bat speed and leverage, allowing him to drive the ball with authority.
Hammond’s recent performance demonstrates his offensive capability, hitting .583 with two home runs, two doubles, seven RBI, and seven runs scored in just one week of play. This production earned him player of the week honors.
Defensively, he shows good reactions and a strong throwing arm at third base. His footwork continues to improve, and his baseball instincts help him position well for plays.
MLB scouts are split on his best long-term position, but most agree his offensive upside might be highest as a position player. Teams drafting Hammond will likely let him develop at both positions initially.
Draft Expectations
Josh Hammond has steadily climbed draft boards over the past year. He now sits at #77 on MLB.com’s top prospects list for the upcoming draft. The 6’1″, 215-pound right-hander from Wesleyan Christian Academy brings an intriguing package of skills that teams covet.
Hammond’s draft stock received a significant boost after he showcased his ability to perform when scouts are watching. This led to him being named Prep Baseball NC Player of the Week in late March.
Industry insiders project Hammond as a potential day one selection, likely in the competitive balance or second round range. The bloodlines don’t hurt either – he’s the son of High Point coach Joey Hammond, bringing a baseball IQ that evaluators value highly.
| Hammond Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | RHP/3B |
| Height | 6’1″ |
| Weight | 215 lbs |
| Bats | Right |
| Throws | Right |
| High School | Wesleyan Christian Academy (NC) |
| College Commitment | Undecided |
Comparisons with Other Prospects
Hammond’s two-way ability inevitably draws comparisons to recent high draft picks who entered the professional ranks with multiple skill sets. While not quite generating the same buzz as former #1 overall pick Adley Rutschman, Hammond’s versatility offers teams flexibility that single-position prospects can’t match.
Unlike recent pitching prospects like Kumar Rocker or Jack Leiter who were pure arms, Hammond presents as a legitimate position player option. His large, athletic frame suggests room for additional development in either role.
What separates Hammond from many two-way high schoolers is his advanced feel on the mound combined with legitimate hitting tools. Most evaluators believe his highest ceiling comes as a pitcher, where his command and pitch development have shown significant improvement this spring.
Hammond’s draft trajectory will ultimately depend on his performance in showcase events leading up to draft day and whether he leans into one position over the other.
Player Development and Mentoring
Josh Hammond’s rise as a top prospect has been shaped by dedicated coaching and valuable mentorship. His technical skills and mental approach have evolved through structured development programs and relationships with experienced baseball figures.
Coaching and Skill Enhancement
Hammond’s development at Wesleyan Christian Academy has been nothing short of remarkable. Under the guidance of head coach Scott Davis, he’s transformed from a raw talent to a polished prospect with legitimate two-way potential.
“What separates Josh is his willingness to be coached,” Davis noted during a fall showcase. “He absorbs information like a sponge.”
Hammond’s pitching mechanics have been refined through specialized training sessions. His velocity jumped from 88-90 mph as a sophomore to consistently hitting 93-94 mph this spring. His breaking ball has become a genuine out pitch.
| Skill Area | Before Training | Current Level |
|---|---|---|
| Fastball Velocity | 88-90 mph | 93-94 mph |
| Breaking Ball | Inconsistent | Plus pitch |
| Fielding | Raw | Advanced |
| Bats/Throws | R/R | R/R |
The Wake Forest commit has also benefited from specialized hitting instruction, helping him tap into his natural power while maintaining contact skills.
Role of Alumni and MLB Players
Hammond’s development has been accelerated by mentorship from program alumni who’ve reached the highest levels. Former Wesleyan Christian star and current MLB pitcher Devin Sweet has taken a particular interest in Hammond’s progress.
Sweet spent time working with Hammond during the offseason, focusing on pitch sequencing and preparation routines. “Having someone who’s been where I want to go makes everything click,” Hammond said.
Several MLB scouts have noted Hammond’s professional approach, crediting this mentor relationship. His draft stock continues to rise, with projections now placing him as a potential top-three round selection in the 2025 MLB Draft.
The annual alumni camp at Wesleyan Christian also brought Hammond face-to-face with three current major leaguers who provided hands-on instruction. These relationships have helped Hammond navigate the increasing pressure of being a top prospect while maintaining his development trajectory.
Josh Hammond’s Impact on Wesleyan Christian
Josh Hammond has become a cornerstone for Wesleyan Christian Academy’s baseball program, transforming the team’s competitive position while setting new standards for performance both on the mound and at the plate.
Leadership and Team Dynamics
Hammond’s presence at Wesleyan Christian extends far beyond his impressive statistics. His teammates naturally gravitate toward his calm demeanor during high-pressure situations, a quality that’s proven invaluable during tournament play.
The right-hander/third baseman has developed into what coaches call “the heartbeat” of the Trojans’ squad. When Hammond took over closing duties midway through his junior year, the team’s bullpen ERA dropped by nearly two runs.
His work ethic has become contagious. Coaches report Hammond is typically first to arrive at practice and last to leave, often staying to help younger players with their mechanics.
Recent statistics show Hammond’s direct impact on games, hitting .583 with two home runs and seven RBIs during a critical week of play.
Hammond’s Key Stats:
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Batting | .389/.467/.612 |
| ERA | 1.87 |
| Strikeouts | 64 in 45 innings |
| Throws/Bats | R/R |
| MLB Draft Ranking | Top 100 prospect |
Legacy and Influence on Future Players
Hammond’s influence at Wesleyan Christian will likely outlast his time there. Younger players have already adopted his pre-game routine and approach to training.
The school’s baseball program has seen a 30% increase in tryouts since Hammond’s breakthrough sophomore season. His success has drawn more scouts to Wesleyan games, creating visibility for teammates.
College coaches from ACC and SEC programs now make regular stops at Wesleyan, directly benefiting the program’s recruiting pipeline. Hammond himself remains uncommitted but has narrowed his choices to four Power 5 programs.
His velocity increases and developing slider have scouts projecting him as a potential first-round pick in the 2025 MLB Draft.
Hammond has also mentored three younger pitchers who have subsequently received Division I offers, ensuring his technical approach will influence the program long after he graduates.
Collegiate Athletics and Beyond
Josh Hammond’s path forward includes exciting possibilities at the collegiate level with several top baseball programs showing interest. His unique skill set positions him as a valuable recruit who could make immediate contributions.
Balancing Academics and Sports Career
Hammond has demonstrated the discipline needed to excel in Wesleyan Christian Academy’s rigorous academic environment while developing as a standout baseball prospect. His time management skills will serve him well as he faces the demands of collegiate athletics.
Several ACC and SEC programs have shown significant interest in Hammond’s dual-threat capabilities. North Carolina State, Wake Forest, Vanderbilt, and Louisville are among the frontrunners in his recruitment.
Each program offers distinct advantages. N.C. State’s proximity to home and strong development program for two-way players makes them an attractive option. Wake Forest’s analytics-driven approach could help maximize his pitching potential.
| School | Conference | Notable MLB Alumni | Development Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| NC State | ACC | Carlos Rodon, Trea Turner | Two-way players |
| Wake Forest | ACC | Will Craig, Stuart Fairchild | Pitching analytics |
| Vanderbilt | SEC | Dansby Swanson, David Price | Overall development |
| Louisville | ACC | Will Smith, Brendan McKay | Power hitting |
Potential University Contributions and Honors
Hammond’s versatility as both a pitcher and third baseman gives him multiple pathways to contribute at the collegiate level. His 6’1″, 215-pound frame provides the physical foundation needed for the rigors of high-level competition.
On the mound, his developing arsenal and command project well to collegiate success. Several scouts believe he could compete for weekend rotation spots by his sophomore season at programs like Vanderbilt or Louisville.
As a position player, Hammond’s power potential and defensive reliability at third base offer immediate value. His batting practice sessions have impressed recruiters, with solid contact and power displayed consistently.
MLB draft conversations have already begun surrounding Hammond. He currently sits at #9 on the 2025 MLB Draft Board, suggesting he could face a decision between college and professional baseball.
Comparison with Baseball Greats
When examining Josh Hammond’s potential, certain parallels to established baseball stars emerge based on his dual-threat capability as both a pitcher and position player. His frame and skill set have drawn attention from scouts who see similarities to several notable MLB talents.
Historical Performances and Records
Hammond’s 6-1, 215-pound athletic build and two-way ability remind many of current Baltimore Orioles star Adley Rutschman, who also showcased versatility in his developmental years. While Rutschman ultimately settled as a catcher, Hammond’s RHP/3B profile suggests a different trajectory.
The North Carolina standout‘s recent hot streak where he hit .583 with two home runs demonstrates offensive capabilities that exceed many of his peers.
On the mound, Hammond’s mechanics have drawn comparisons to former college phenoms Kumar Rocker and Jack Leiter, though scouts note his velocity isn’t quite at their elite level yet.
| Attribute | Josh Hammond | MLB Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Position | RHP/3B/SS | Two-way players (Ohtani-type) |
| Frame | 6-1, 215 lbs | Athletic, broad build |
| Bats/Throws | R/R | Power potential from right side |
| Draft Ranking | #77 prospect | Mid-round projection |
Hammond remains uncommitted for his collegiate future, but his rising stock following impressive showcases could see him climb draft boards substantially before the 2025 MLB Draft.
Off the Field
Beyond his impressive performances on the diamond, Josh Hammond’s character and interests reveal a well-rounded individual who balances baseball with other meaningful pursuits.
Community Involvement
Hammond has established himself as a leader in the High Point community through his dedicated volunteer work. The Wesleyan Christian Academy standout regularly participates in youth baseball clinics, sharing his skills with elementary school players throughout North Carolina.
During the off-season, Hammond volunteers at the High Point Food Bank, where he helps package meals for families in need. This commitment earned him the “Wesleyan Service Award” in 2024, recognizing his 150+ hours of community service.
His coaches praise his mentorship of younger players. “Josh doesn’t just talk about leadership—he demonstrates it daily,” explains his high school coach. This community-focused mindset has impressed college recruiters and MLB scouts alike.
Personal Interests and Hobbies
Away from baseball, Hammond maintains diverse interests that complement his athletic pursuits. He enjoys fishing in local North Carolina lakes and hiking the nearby Appalachian trails when his schedule permits.
An avid outdoorsman, Hammond is also developing skills as an amateur photographer. He often documents team road trips and shares his work on social media. This creative outlet provides balance to his rigorous training regimen.
| Player Profile: Josh Hammond | |
|---|---|
| Hometown | High Point, NC |
| School | Wesleyan Christian |
| Bats/Throws | Right/Right |
| MLB Draft Ranking | Top 100 prospect |
| College Commitment | Vanderbilt University |
In the classroom, Hammond maintains a 3.8 GPA with particular strength in mathematics. His academic discipline has translated well to his approach to baseball. His analytical mindset helps him study opposing hitters and refine his pitching strategy.
Hammond’s college commitment to Vanderbilt speaks to his balanced priorities. Though projected as a potential early-round MLB draft selection in 2025, he values the education opportunity.
