"Fire on the Mound, Flash in the Outfield: The Next-Level Dynamo in Cleats"

Josh Varnell

@varnell_jo85515

5’5”, 100lbs, Class of 2030

Left-handed pitcher / Center Fielder

Elm City Middle School (NC)

Josh brings a fearless, electric presence to the field that’s impossible to overlook. As a lefty pitcher with pinpoint control and a center fielder with game-altering range, he impacts the game from every angle with a fierce competitive fire. His command of tempo, ability to disrupt timing, and raw field instincts separate him from anyone else at his age and position. He brings a coach’s mindset to every pitch, a sprinter’s speed to every fly ball, and the heart of a warrior every time he takes the field. With a passion that spills into every movement, Josh doesn’t just play the game, he attacks it with purpose, precision, and pride.

Across three teams—SBA East- Greenville 13U, CCS MS Cyclones, and Elm City Middle School, Josh has racked up jaw-dropping stats that scream consistency and skill. He’s currently hitting .571 with a .625 on-base percentage and 1.244 OPS for SBA, without a single strikeout in 21 at-bats. At Elm City, he’s batting .391 with a .690 OBP, scoring 16 runs and reaching base in 20 of 29 plate appearances. When he steps into the box, he does it with patience, control, and a clutch mentality that never fades under pressure. As a pitcher, Josh is equally lethal 20.1 innings, 31 strikeouts, and only 2 earned runs in key moments. From 11 strikeouts against Nash Central to a full-game 6-5 win over rival Springfield, he delivers in every pressure-packed situation. And defensively, he’s flawless. With a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage this season in center, diving catches and rocket throws are just part of the highlight reel.

Josh’s biggest offseason focus has been perfecting his off-speed pitches. By tightening his release point, improving grip, and increasing arm speed, he’s transformed his changeup and curveball into true weapons that keep hitters guessing. His growth from the mound has made him not just a pitcher but a thinking pitcher and a chess master in cleats. But beyond the mechanics, what pushes Josh most is the memory of getting called up to varsity as a sixth grader. That moment fueled him with belief, and he’s been chasing greatness ever since. Whether he’s picking apart hitters with a plan or tracking down a deep drive to center, Josh brings full-throttle effort and surgical focus to every play.

Josh thrives off momentum, locking in after big defensive plays and fueling his team with energy. What sets him apart isn’t just talent but his unshakable mindset. Even after giving up a big hit or falling behind in a count, Josh resets, refocuses, and responds. He’s built for the ups and downs of baseball, embracing adversity with maturity well beyond his years. The best advice he’s ever received is, “Practice doesn’t make perfect; it makes you better.” That belief guides him through off-season training, weight room days, and quiet moments of work when no one’s watching.

Josh is already thinking about the future with dreams of D1 or D2 baseball and a firm understanding that it all starts with grades, character, and daily discipline. He’s coachable, consistent, and committed. Every coach he plays for knows they’re getting 100% effort, a positive attitude, and a player who wants to be coached hard. Josh doesn’t take a single rep for granted, and it shows.

I assess that Josh is a dynamic two-way weapon with the toolbox and temperament to anchor any middle school or high school roster. His ability to contribute in multiple areas, including pitching, hitting, defense, and base running,, makes him an instant asset. He brings intangibles that coaches can build around: leadership, intelligence, resilience, and effort. Expect him to set the tone every time he steps on the field.

Josh has a sky-high ceiling. As he continues to grow physically and elevate his advanced baseball IQ, he’s going to be a force in high school and a name to remember at the next level. With his current skill set, fierce mentality, and growth mindset, there’s no doubt he’s on a path that leads to major success. His potential is limitless and his fire is already burning bright. Can't wait to see his game evolve and his continued development on the diamond. Stay tuned as this young phenom continues to grow and shine.