Marek Houston, SS, Wake Forest: Rising Star Poised for MLB Draft Success
Marek Houston continues to shine as one of college baseball’s premier shortstops. The Wake Forest junior has been turning heads with his stellar play. He’s batting an impressive .345 with 10 home runs and 45 RBIs so far in the 2025 season. His combination of defensive prowess at shortstop and consistent offensive production has cemented his status as a projected first-round pick in the upcoming 2025 MLB Draft.
At 6’3″ and 205 pounds, Houston brings an ideal frame to the position, showcasing the range and arm strength scouts covet. The Florida native from Venice High School has developed significantly since arriving in Winston-Salem, improving his power numbers each season. His current projection as the 24th overall prospect speaks to his rising stock among MLB evaluators.
Houston’s college career has been nothing short of remarkable, highlighted by his 2024 campaign where he led the Demon Deacons with a .326 batting average. The right-handed infielder accumulated 72 hits, 39 RBIs, and eight home runs while starting 53 games at shortstop last season. His continued development this spring has only strengthened his case as one of the top collegiate middle infielders available in next year’s draft.
Contents
- 1 Early Life and High School Career
- 2 College Career at Wake Forest
- 3 Scouting Report and Skills
- 4 Performance in the Cape Cod League
- 5 Draft Prospects and MLB Aspirations
- 6 Comparison with Contemporaries
- 7 Personal Life and Interests
- 8 Community Engagement and Leadership
- 9 Media Coverage and Public Perception
- 10 Future Projections and Career Outlook
Early Life and High School Career
Marek Houston began his baseball journey in College Station, Texas, where he was born on April 14, 2004. His path to becoming one of the top shortstop prospects would take him to Florida, where he developed his skills and caught the attention of college recruiters.
High School Achievements
At Venice High School in Florida, Houston established himself as an elite infield talent. His defensive prowess at shortstop became his calling card, showcasing exceptional range and reliable hands that made him a standout in a competitive Florida high school baseball scene.
Houston’s right-handed bat developed nicely during his prep career, combining solid contact skills with developing power. His 6-foot-3 frame gave scouts plenty to dream on regarding his physical projection.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| High School | Venice HS (Venice, FL) |
| Position | Shortstop |
| Bats/Throws | Right/Right |
| Height | 6’3″ |
Houston’s performance earned him recognition as one of the top infield prospects in Florida, positioning him well for the next level.
Recruitment and Commitment to Wake Forest
Houston’s talents didn’t go unnoticed by college programs across the country. His combination of defensive skills, offensive potential, and academic prowess made him a priority target for several Division I programs.
Wake Forest emerged as the frontrunner in his recruitment, offering both academic excellence and a developing baseball program on the rise in the ACC. Houston committed to Wake Forest and arrived on campus with significant expectations.
His profile on Perfect Game showed Houston as a player with considerable upside. Houston’s decision to attend Wake Forest rather than enter the professional ranks directly out of high school has paid dividends for both his development and the Demon Deacons program.
College Career at Wake Forest
Marek Houston established himself as one of Wake Forest’s premier infielders since joining the program. His defensive prowess at shortstop combined with consistent offensive production has made him a cornerstone of the Demon Deacons’ success.
Freshman Year Highlights
Houston’s freshman campaign at Wake Forest was nothing short of spectacular. He set a school record with 65 games played, showcasing remarkable durability. His consistent performance earned him a spot on the 2023 All-ACC Academic Team, balancing athletic excellence with classroom success.
Defensively, Houston solidified Wake’s infield with his range and arm strength. Standing at 6’3″ and 205 pounds, he brought size and athleticism to the shortstop position that caught scouts’ attention early.
His freshman stats reflected a player who belonged at the ACC level from day one:
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Games | 65 |
| Bat/Throw | R/R |
| Build | 6’3″, 205 lbs |
Sophomore Year and Development
Houston took a significant leap forward in his sophomore season, culminating in a Third Team All-ACC selection in 2024. His bat developed impressive pop, with his 2025 junior campaign already showing 10 home runs and 46 RBIs while maintaining a strong .343 batting average.
The sophomore season transformed Houston from a promising freshman into a legitimate MLB draft prospect. His performance caught the attention of USA Baseball, earning him an invite to the 2024 USA Baseball Collegiate National Team camp.
Houston’s development curve has MLB scouts projecting him as a potential day one selection in the 2026 draft. His combination of defensive reliability, power development, and baseball IQ has cemented him as one of the premier shortstop prospects in college baseball.
Scouting Report and Skills
Marek Houston has transformed into one of college baseball’s most complete shortstops, combining impressive defensive prowess with developing offensive tools. His growth at Wake Forest has caught the attention of MLB scouts ahead of the 2025 draft.
Batting Power and Home Runs
Houston’s power profile has taken a significant leap forward in 2025. Bigger and stronger than last year, he’s added approximately 20 pounds of muscle, now weighing in at 205 pounds compared to 185 in 2024. This physical development has directly translated to his performance at the plate.
His balanced approach is evident in his impressive positive walk-to-strikeout ratio both at Wake Forest and during his 2024 Cape Cod League stint with Bourne. Houston maintains an excellent 86% contact rate, allowing him to utilize his developing power without sacrificing batting average.
The junior shortstop has been the offensive catalyst in Wake Forest’s perfect 4-0 start, doing much of the heavy lifting for the Demon Deacons. MLB scouts project his power as slightly above average with a grade of 45 on the 20-80 scale.
| Marek Houston Stats | |
|---|---|
| Position | SS |
| Bats/Throws | R/R |
| Height/Weight | 6’1″/205 lbs |
| Power Grade | 45/80 |
| Hit Grade | 45/80 |
Defensive Capabilities as Shortstop
Houston’s defensive abilities remain his calling card. He will definitely stick at shortstop at the professional level, possessing all the tools needed to excel there.
His defensive fundamentals are outstanding. Houston combines a strong arm (55 grade) with excellent mobility on the infield dirt and impressive range, allowing him to make plays from deep in the hole that other college shortstops simply can’t reach.
Houston’s defensive value is further enhanced by his 60-grade fielding abilities and above-average 55-grade speed. This combination makes him a premier defender at the collegiate level and projects well at the professional level.
MLB scouts currently assign him an overall grade of 55, suggesting he profiles as an above-average regular at the major league level. Houston is widely projected as a potential first-round selection in the 2025 MLB Draft, with some evaluators placing him in the top half of the first round.
Performance in the Cape Cod League
Marek Houston showcased his exceptional skills during his time in the Cape Cod League, emerging as one of the standout shortstops in the prestigious summer league. His defensive excellence and improved batting caught the attention of scouts and earned him notable recognition.
League Achievements and All-Star Selection
Houston’s Cape Cod League performance was nothing short of impressive. Playing for Bourne, the Wake Forest shortstop hit .306 across 27 games, displaying the offensive growth that complemented his already elite defensive capabilities.
His stellar play earned him a spot in the Cape Cod League All-Star Game, a significant achievement that boosted his draft stock considerably.
Houston’s defensive wizardry stood out even among the nation’s top collegiate talent. He established himself as arguably the best defensive shortstop in the Draft class during his Cape stint.
Houston’s Cape Cod League Stats:
| Category | Stat | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Batting Average | .306 | SS |
| Games Played | 27 | B/T: R/R |
| Height/Weight | 6’3″/185 lbs | DOB: 4/14/2004 |
MLB scouts particularly noted his defensive mechanics and range. His summer league performance has solidified his projection as a plus defender at shortstop at the professional level, with many experts considering him a potential first-round selection in the upcoming MLB Draft.
Draft Prospects and MLB Aspirations
Marek Houston has quickly emerged as one of the most intriguing shortstop prospects in the 2025 MLB Draft class. His defensive prowess coupled with recent offensive improvements have significantly boosted his stock among major league scouts.
MLB Draft Predictions
Houston currently sits in an enviable position on most draft boards. According to recent rankings, he’s placed at number 22 overall on the Prep Baseball Report’s March update of the 2025 MLB Draft Board. Baseball America lists him as the No. 20 prospect in the upcoming draft.
His stock continues to rise with each impressive performance. Industry experts project Houston as a potential first-round selection, with some even suggesting he could crack the top 15 if his offensive production maintains its upward trajectory.
His draft stock has been on a steady climb since the preseason when he was already considered a top-tier MLB Draft prospect.
Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Houston’s defensive abilities stand as his most polished asset. Scouts consistently praise his smooth defensive skills at shortstop. He combines good mobility with a strong arm, making him a reliable defender at a premium position.
The most significant development in Houston’s profile has been his offensive improvement. After establishing himself as a defensive specialist, he’s now making big offensive gains that have scouts reconsidering his ceiling.
Areas for continued development include:
- Power production (though showing improvement)
- Consistency in plate approach
- Base-stealing efficiency
His draft stock could rise even further if he continues to demonstrate improved pop while maintaining his defensive excellence.
Comparison with Contemporaries
When evaluating Marek Houston’s place among today’s top collegiate shortstops, his elite bat-to-ball skills and defensive prowess stand out in a talented field. His development at Wake Forest has positioned him as one of the most well-rounded middle infielders in the 2025 MLB Draft class.
Notable Collegiate Peers
Marek Houston has established himself as a premier shortstop, hitting .326 with 8 home runs as a key contributor to Wake Forest’s success. His combination of contact skills and developing power makes him a projected first-round talent.
Ethan Holliday provides Houston’s stiffest competition among draft-eligible shortstops, bringing a more projectable frame and higher power ceiling. While Houston excels with consistency, Holliday offers more raw tools.
Cam Cannarella and Ethan Petry represent the SEC’s elite position players, with Cannarella’s outfield athleticism and Petry’s power drawing more attention from scouts than Houston’s steadier profile.
Top Collegiate Shortstops – 2025 Draft Class
| Player | School | Bats/Throws | AVG | HR | Draft Projection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marek Houston | Wake Forest | S/R | .326 | 8 | First Round (Cardinals) |
| Ethan Holliday | Oklahoma St | R/R | .312 | 12 | First Round |
| Trent Caraway | Long Beach St | R/R | .331 | 6 | First Round |
Houston’s switch-hitting ability separates him from peers like Aiva Arquette and Brady Ebel, giving him versatility that MLB teams covet. His defensive instincts receive higher marks than the more offensively-focused Xavier Neyens and Sean Gamble.
What MLB scouts particularly value is Houston’s remarkable development curve, turning from an under-the-radar recruit to a potential top-15 selection. His well-rounded skillset offers less risk than some higher-ceiling contemporaries.
Personal Life and Interests
Marek Houston celebrates his birthday on April 14, 2004, making him 21 years old as of yesterday. The Wake Forest shortstop hails from College Station, Texas.
Family is important to Houston. He’s the son of Allyson and Mark Houston and has three siblings. This strong family foundation has helped shape his disciplined approach both on and off the diamond.
Before joining the Demon Deacons, Houston achieved impressive accolades in his youth career. He won a state championship and claimed a National World WWBA Championship title, showcasing his winning pedigree early on.
At Wake Forest, Houston is balancing athletics with academics. The sophomore is currently undecided on his major but is considering studying communication.
Player Profile:
| Stat | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marek Christopher Houston |
| Bats/Throws | Right/Right |
| Hometown | College Station, Texas |
| Birth Date | April 14, 2004 |
Houston’s solid defensive skills and developing bat have scouts taking notice. While not yet projected as a first-round selection, his ceiling remains high with two more collegiate seasons to improve his draft stock.
His combination of academic discipline and athletic talent makes him a model student-athlete in the Wake Forest program.
Community Engagement and Leadership
Beyond his impressive stats on the diamond, Marek Houston has established himself as a standout leader both within the Wake Forest baseball program and the broader Winston-Salem community. His commitment to service has become nearly as noteworthy as his slick fielding and consistent hitting.
Volunteer Work and Mentoring
Houston dedicates significant time to local youth baseball clinics, working with underprivileged kids in Winston-Salem neighborhoods. He’s become a fixture at the local Boys & Girls Club, where he mentors young athletes twice monthly during the offseason.
“These kids just need someone to believe in them,” Houston told me last fall. “Baseball gave me opportunities, and I want to pass that along.”
His teammates note that Houston organized a team-wide initiative to renovate a community baseball field in east Winston-Salem, securing donations from local businesses and rallying volunteers. The project, completed in December 2024, provided a safe playing space for youth leagues.
Houston also leads the team’s annual holiday gift drive, which collected over 500 toys for local children last December. His leadership in this area hasn’t gone unnoticed by MLB scouts, who consistently mention his character as a significant plus in draft evaluations.
| Community Service Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Youth Baseball Clinics | 2x monthly during offseason |
| Field Renovation Project | Team leader, completed Dec 2024 |
| Holiday Gift Drive | 500+ toys collected |
| Boys & Girls Club Mentoring | Ongoing program since 2023 |
With the 2025 MLB Draft approaching, Houston’s combination of on-field talent and off-field leadership has him projected as a potential late first-round selection. Several organizations have specifically cited his community engagement as evidence of the maturity needed at the professional level.
Media Coverage and Public Perception
Marek Houston has garnered significant attention from baseball media as he continues to shine at shortstop for Wake Forest. His defensive prowess combined with his improved offensive capabilities has made him a favorite subject for college baseball analysts.
Press Interviews and Profiles
Houston’s media presence has grown substantially during his time with the Demon Deacons. His game-saving defensive plays have frequently made highlight reels, bringing national attention to the Wake Forest program.
The junior shortstop has handled the spotlight with remarkable poise. In a notable post-game interview alongside Coach Tom Walter, Houston demonstrated his team-first mentality when discussing the team’s performance against UNC.
Baseball Prospect Journal featured Houston in a detailed profile, highlighting how he has developed into a well-rounded shortstop. The piece examines his growth from a defensive specialist to a complete player who can impact games on both sides of the ball.
| Marek Houston Stats | 2024-25 Season |
|---|---|
| Batting Average | .326 |
| Games Started | 53 |
| Home Runs | 8 |
| RBIs | 39 |
| Bats/Throws | R/R |
| MLB Draft Prospect | Mid-Round |
With his consistently solid performance, Houston has been identified as part of Wake Forest’s star-studded offensive trio that has propelled the team’s ACC success. MLB scouts have taken notice, with many projecting him as a potential mid-round selection in the upcoming draft.
Future Projections and Career Outlook
As Marek Houston continues to develop his skills at Wake Forest, his professional trajectory has become clearer. The junior shortstop has positioned himself as one of the top infield prospects for the 2025 MLB Draft through his defensive reliability and improving offensive output.
Long-term Career Potential
Houston’s ceiling appears to be that of an everyday major league shortstop who can impact the game on both sides of the ball. His defensive foundation is rock-solid, with evaluators consistently praising his mobility and arm strength across the infield.
What’s truly changed his outlook is the physical development. Houston has added significant muscle, going from 185 pounds in 2024 to 205 pounds in 2025. This hasn’t sacrificed his athleticism but has instead enhanced his power potential.
The bat, once considered a work in progress, now projects as a potential plus tool. His improved exit velocities and more consistent barrel contact suggest a player who can hit for both average and moderate power.
| Houston’s Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Bats/Throws | Right/Right |
| Height/Weight | 6’1″/205 lbs |
| Draft Projection | First Round (Top 15) |
| Defensive Position | Shortstop |
Potential Role in Professional Baseball
Houston could potentially be a first-round selection in the 2025 MLB Draft. Some mock drafts have him going quite high. For instance, Bleacher Report has connected him to the Cleveland Guardians in early projections.
His floor appears to be that of a utility infielder with defensive versatility, but his ceiling could be much higher. If the offensive gains stick, we’re looking at a potential everyday shortstop. He could hit in the .270-.290 range with 15-20 home run power.
The fact that Houston wasn’t a high-profile recruit but worked his way into Wake Forest’s lineup as a freshman speaks volumes about his work ethic and adaptability. These traits should serve him well during the inevitable adjustment period in professional baseball.
His timeline to the majors would likely be moderate. Perhaps 2-3 years after being drafted, he would continue to refine his offensive approach against advanced pitching.
