Josiah Hartshorn, OF, Orange Lutheran (CA) Emerges as Top MLB Draft Prospect for 2026
Josiah Hartshorn is emerging as one of the most intriguing baseball prospects in the 2025 class. The Orange Lutheran High School standout brings an impressive physical presence to the field at 6-2, 220 pounds, combining size with surprising athleticism as evidenced by his 6.65 second 60-yard dash time. Hartshorn’s powerful build and versatility as both an outfielder and first baseman have MLB scouts increasingly taking notice of the California native.
Hartshorn’s development at Orange Lutheran, a program known for producing high-level talent, has been steady and impressive. The senior class slugger has shown a natural power stroke from the left side while also displaying some potential on the mound as a left-handed pitcher. What separates him from peers is his combination of raw power and athleticism, unusual for a player of his size and age.
His accolades continue to accumulate, including being named California Hitter of the Week and winning the Home Run Derby against other elite prospects. While still developing consistency at the plate, Hartshorn’s ceiling appears remarkably high. The young outfielder projects as a potential day one or early day two selection in the MLB draft if his progression continues at its current pace.
Contents
Biographical Snapshot
Josiah Hartshorn has emerged as one of Southern California’s premier baseball talent. His journey from Anaheim to becoming a standout at Orange Lutheran High School showcases his development as both an athlete and student.
Early Life in Huntington Beach
Though he currently resides in Anaheim, Hartshorn’s baseball journey has roots in Orange County’s coastal communities. Standing at an impressive 6’2″ with a solid 220-pound frame, his physical attributes caught scouts’ attention early on.
His athletic prowess was evident from a young age. The California native developed his skills playing in competitive youth leagues throughout Orange County, establishing himself as a prospect to watch.
What separates Hartshorn is his exceptional speed despite his powerful build. He has recorded a remarkable 6.65 second 60-yard dash time, showcasing his rare combination of power and quickness.
High School Career at Orange Lutheran
At Orange Lutheran High School, Hartshorn has developed into a versatile player who primarily plays outfield but can also handle first base duties. The senior has become a cornerstone for the Lancers’ baseball program.
His offensive production earned him California Hitter of the Week honors during Week Five of his senior season, highlighting his impact at the plate.
| Player Stats | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | OF/1B |
| Bats/Throws | Switch/Left |
| Height/Weight | 6’2″ / 220 lbs |
| 60-yard time | 6.65 seconds |
Hartshorn plays travel ball with USA Prime National/Detroit Tigers Scout team, further enhancing his visibility to MLB scouts. His power-speed combination has cemented him as a legitimate draft prospect for 2025, though he hasn’t yet announced a college commitment.
Athletic Profile
Josiah Hartshorn has developed into one of the most physically impressive prospects in the 2025 class. His combination of size, speed, and emerging power has scouts taking notice as he continues to refine his skills at Orange Lutheran High School.
From First Baseman to Outfielder
Hartshorn’s defensive versatility has become a significant asset in his development. Originally splitting time at first base, he has successfully transitioned to the outfield where his athleticism can truly shine. The 6-foot-2, 220-pound senior has the arm strength and range to handle corner outfield positions effectively.
His background as a first baseman hasn’t gone to waste either. The soft hands and footwork developed there translate well to his outfield play, especially when charging balls or setting up throws.
Hartshorn’s defensive flexibility gives him multiple pathways to the next level. College programs and pro scouts alike value his ability to handle multiple positions competently, increasing his chances of finding a spot in the lineup.
Skills and Physical Attributes
Hartshorn possesses elite-level speed rarely seen in a player his size. He recorded a blazing 6.65 second 60-yard dash time, placing him among the fastest players in his class. This speed translates both defensively and on the basepaths.
His raw power continues developing, allowing him to drive balls with authority to all fields. His bat speed has improved dramatically over the past year, leading to his recognition as the California Hitter of the Week earlier this season.
| Physical Profile | Batting/Throwing | Key Metrics |
|---|---|---|
| 6’2″, 220 lbs | Switch/Left | 6.65 60-yard dash |
Though not yet committed to a college program, Hartshorn’s stock for the 2025 MLB Draft continues rising. His combination of size, speed, and developing power gives him legitimate pro potential as a corner outfielder.
Amateur Performance
Josiah Hartshorn has emerged as one of California’s most promising baseball prospects through his consistent performance at the high school level and in showcase events. His physical tools and production have put him firmly on the radar of MLB scouts.
Defining Moments with Orange Lutheran
Hartshorn’s career at Orange Lutheran High School has been nothing short of impressive. The 6’2″, 220-pound outfielder/first baseman has shown remarkable consistency at the plate, becoming a key contributor for the Lancers.
His impact was particularly notable when he was named California Hitter of the Week during Week Five of the high school season. That recognition didn’t come by accident.
At the plate, Hartshorn displays an impressive combination of power and contact skills. His right-handed swing generates significant bat speed with a natural lift that produces both gap-to-gap doubles and over-the-fence power.
| Stat Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | OF/1B |
| Bats/Throws | S/L |
| Height/Weight | 6’2″, 219.1 lbs |
| School | Orange Lutheran (CA) |
Showcase Participation and Rankings
Hartshorn has bolstered his prospect status through impressive performances at key showcase events. He’s currently with USA Prime National/Detroit Tigers Scout as his travel team, providing him excellent exposure to evaluators.
His athleticism stands out in showcase settings, where he recorded a 6.65-second 60-yard dash at Perfect Game events. That’s exceptional speed for a player of his size, demonstrating the rare power-speed combination that excites professional scouts.
Perfect Game currently lists him among their Top 30 Prep Prospects in California for the class of 2025. His profile has grown steadily through consistent performance.
Though he’s just entering his draft year, Hartshorn’s combination of physical tools, production, and projectability have him positioned as a potential early-round selection in the 2025 MLB Draft if his development continues on trajectory.
Commitment and Future Prospects
Josiah Hartshorn’s baseball journey is taking shape with a clear collegiate path while keeping professional possibilities open. His combination of size, speed, and power has attracted attention from both college programs and MLB scouts.
Collegiate Commitment to Stanford
Hartshorn has secured his academic and athletic future by committing to Stanford University, one of the premier baseball programs in the country. The Cardinal coaching staff was reportedly impressed by his rare combination of 6.65 speed in the 60-yard dash and power potential from his 6-2, 220-pound frame.
Stanford’s track record of developing MLB talent likely played a significant role in Hartshorn’s decision. The program has consistently produced professional outfielders who combine athleticism with power.
His commitment represents a significant recruiting win for the Cardinal, who continue to attract top talent from Southern California’s competitive high school baseball landscape.
Potential and MLB Draft Considerations
Hartshorn projects as an intriguing 2025 MLB Draft prospect based on his physical tools and production at Orange Lutheran. At Draft Day Age (likely 18), he’ll be one of the younger prospects available with significant upside remaining.
| Key Draft Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | OF/1B |
| Bats/Throws | Right/Right |
| Frame | 6-2, 220 lbs |
| 60-Yard Time | 6.65 seconds |
| Draft Ranking | #76 Overall Prospect |
His recent recognition as California Hitter of the Week demonstrates his in-game production is matching his physical tools. Scouts have noted his power potential as his primary carrying tool.
The decision between honoring his Stanford commitment or turning professional will likely depend on his draft position and associated bonus pool allocation. Early projections place him as a potential top-three round selection.
Local and National Recognition
Josiah Hartshorn has quickly emerged as one of California’s elite baseball prospects. His powerful bat and athletic outfield play have garnered attention from scouts and media alike across multiple platforms.
Coverage in Sports Newsletters
Hartshorn has become a fixture in regional baseball coverage. The Orange Lutheran senior was recently named California Hitter of the Week by Prep Baseball Report for Week Five of the high school baseball season. This recognition came after a string of multi-hit performances that showcased his power to all fields.
The 6-2, 220-pound outfielder/first baseman has also been featured in local publications. The Orange County Register recognized him as Boys Athlete of the Week after leading Orange Lutheran to championship victory in the Bishop Gorman Invitational tournament.
Advancing Beyond California
Hartshorn’s reputation has expanded well beyond Anaheim’s city limits. Perfect Game USA has him on their national radar, noting his impressive 6.65-second 60-yard dash time among other measurables.
Peer Comparison
Hartshorn has established himself as one of the premier outfield prospects in California’s 2025 class. How he stacks up against his contemporaries both locally and nationally reveals much about his potential trajectory toward the professional ranks.
Competing with the Best: From Huntington Beach to Anaheim
When looking at the Southern California baseball landscape, Josiah Hartshorn’s name consistently appears alongside other elite talents. Hartshorn, who is ranked #12 overall in California and #63 nationally, outperforms many of his contemporaries in raw power metrics.
His closest competition comes from Brady Ebel, another highly-regarded prospect with professional bloodlines. While Ebel offers more positional versatility, Hartshorn’s power tool gives him a distinct advantage in MLB draft conversations.
Gavin Fien and Diego Velazquez represent strong competition from the pitching side, but among position players, Hartshorn’s 6.65 second 60-yard dash combined with his exit velocities place him in rarefied air.
Peers on the Field
Within Orange Lutheran’s talented roster, Hartshorn has distinguished himself among teammates like Angel Cervantes and Zach Strickland. His recent performance earned him California Hitter of the Week honors for Week Five, cementing his status as one of the state’s elite.
Key Comparative Metrics for 2025 OF Prospects
| Player | Height/Weight | Bats/Throws | 60-Time | Exit Velo | Draft Projection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Josiah Hartshorn | 6-2/220 | S/R | 6.65 | 100+ | Early Rounds |
| Seth Hernandez | 6-1/190 | R/R | 6.78 | 94 | Mid Rounds |
| Quentin Young | 6-3/205 | L/L | 6.72 | 96 | Early-Mid Rounds |
| Trent Grindlinger | 6-0/185 | R/R | 6.80 | 92 | Mid-Late Rounds |
While still uncommitted, Hartshorn’s physical development at 6-2, 220 pounds has scouts projecting him as a potential early-round selection in the 2025 MLB Draft. His switch-hitting ability with power from both sides remains his most marketable skill against this peer group.
Prospective Colleges and Rivals
Josiah Hartshorn’s college recruitment has heated up significantly in the past year. The talented Orange Lutheran outfielder/first baseman has garnered attention from several top baseball programs across the country, with one clear leader emerging in his commitment process.
Comparative Analysis of Baseball Programs
Hartshorn has committed to Texas A&M University, choosing the Aggies over other powerhouse programs. The 6-2, 220 lb prospect showcased impressive measurables with a 6.65 second 60-yard dash time, making him attractive to multiple SEC and Pac-12 schools.
Programs like Vanderbilt, Georgia, and Oklahoma had expressed interest in the power-hitting outfielder. Stanford and Oregon State were particularly aggressive in their pursuit before his Texas A&M commitment.
His power numbers have been exceptional, as Hartshorn recently broke Orange Lutheran’s home run record, further cementing his status as a top 2025 draft prospect.
Player Profile:
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Position | OF/1B |
| Height/Weight | 6-2, 220 lbs |
| Bats/Throws | R/R |
| 60-Yard Dash | 6.65 seconds |
| College Commitment | Texas A&M |
| MLB Draft Projection | Top 3 rounds potential (2025) |
Draft Commentary
As April 2025 unfolds, Josiah Hartshorn continues to strengthen his position as one of the premier high school talents in the upcoming MLB Draft. His combination of power and athleticism has scouts buzzing about his professional ceiling.
Expert Opinions on Hartshorn’s Draft Status
Industry evaluators have consistently ranked Hartshorn among the top prep prospects in the 2025 class. The Orange Lutheran standout is currently projected as an early-round MLB Draft prospect, with some experts suggesting first-round potential.
“Hartshorn shows exceptional bat-to-ball skills rarely seen in high school prospects,” one National League scout told me last week. “He belongs in the same conversation as Ethan Holliday and Xavier Neyens.”
While Hartshorn has already signed with Texas A&M, most insiders believe he’ll opt for the professional route if selected within the first two rounds. His stock has risen considerably after outperforming fellow California prospects Eli Willits and Ty Peeples in several showcase events.
Statistical Outlook and Advanced Metrics
Hartshorn’s production speaks for itself. The versatile outfielder and first baseman is putting up numbers that analytics departments covet.
| Category | 2025 Season | Showcase Average | Percentile Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batting Average | .500 | .412 | 97th |
| Exit Velocity | 97 mph | 94 mph | 92nd |
| OPS | 1.397 | 1.210 | 95th |
| Chase Rate | 18.2% | 22.1% | 89th |
His performance earned him California Hitter of the Week honors in Week Five of the high school season. Advanced metrics particularly favor Hartshorn’s approach, with a hard-hit rate that surpasses draft contemporaries Lucas Franco and Brock Sell.
Currently ranked #12 overall in California and #63 nationally, Hartshorn’s stock continues to climb as June approaches.
Impact on Local Baseball Scene
Josiah Hartshorn has transformed the Orange County baseball landscape with his record-breaking power and leadership. His performance has elevated both his team’s standing and raised the competitive bar across Southern California’s high school baseball programs.
Orange Lutheran’s Legacy in High School Baseball
Orange Lutheran has long been a powerhouse in California prep baseball, but Hartshorn’s contributions have taken the program to new heights. The slugger recently became the school’s all-time home run leader, smashing four homers in a single week during the Bishop Invitational tournament.
His clutch performances helped the Lancers claim the tournament title and earned him Orange County Boy Athlete of the Week honors.
With his imposing 6-2, 220-pound frame and impressive 6.65 speed in the 60-yard dash, Hartshorn has scouts flocking to games. His defensive versatility between outfield and first base adds another dimension to his draft stock.
| Stat Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Position | OF/1B |
| Height/Weight | 6’2″ / 220 lbs |
| Bats/Throws | R/R |
| 60-Yard Dash | 6.65 seconds |
| Draft Projection | Early Round (2025) |
Regional Influence: From Santa Margarita to Westlake
Hartshorn’s impact extends well beyond Orange Lutheran’s campus. His performances against rivals like Santa Margarita have elevated those matchups into must-see events for MLB scouts and college recruiters alike.
La Mirada’s coaching staff has reportedly adjusted their pitching strategy specifically to counter Hartshorn’s power. Meanwhile, Arcadia and Westlake have studied his approach at the plate to improve their own hitting programs.
The ripple effect has even reached softball circles, with several local programs adopting training techniques similar to those that helped develop Hartshorn’s power stroke.
As the 2025 California high school baseball season approaches, coaches from Westlake to La Mirada acknowledge that the road to a state championship likely runs through Orange Lutheran. Specifically, they know they must tackle the challenge of containing Josiah Hartshorn’s bat.
