METRO PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tanner West, jr., LHP, Volcano Vista: Here’s all you really need to know: La Cueva lost three games last year en route to a state title, and two of those losses came to West. Already committed to the Lobos.

Wyatt Kelley, sr., RHP, Rio Rancho: What West means to the Hawks, Kelley means to the Rams. He is a very strong and experienced front-line starting pitcher.

Andrew Pratt, sr., C, La Cueva: The big-hitting Pratt belted eight home runs last year and drove in nearly 40 runs for the Bears. Signed with UNM.

Zeke Long, sr., RHP, Albuquerque Academy: Long is a tall, impressive thrower who is expected to sign soon with Tulane.

Nathaniel Garley, jr., RHP/3B, Eldorado: Garley was one of 5A’s true impact players as a sophomore, and he’ll be vital once again to the Eagles’ chances.

Mitch Buffett, soph., P/IF, St. Pius: Yes, this is the younger brother of former Academy standout Tyler Buffett, and he looks to be every bit as formidable on the hill.

Andrew Stubbs, sr., 1B, Eldorado: You rarely hear of a prep player singled out for his amazing glove work, but Stubbs is a marvel at his position. Good with the stick, too.

Caleb McAlister, sr., P, La Cueva: The Washington State signee is the staff ace on what might be New Mexico’s best baseball team.

Austin Bell, sr., OF, La Cueva: Like Pratt, a University of New Mexico signee, and a threat in every department for the potent Bears.

Chris Padilla, sr., CF, Volcano Vista: Arguably the best bat in that Hawks’ lineup and one of the top outfielders in 6A.

Joe Standley, jr., LHP, Hope Christian: The 4A arms generally don’t get much attention, but he’s already committed to New Mexico State.

Drew Gillespie, jr., SS, Sandia: He, too, has verbally committed to the Lobos; he can also throw it close to 90 mph from the bump.