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Though 18 prospects have pledged to play for David Pierce’s Texas baseball team in the past three months, the commitment of 2018 third baseman Bryce Reagan is unique. The 16-year old switch-hitter is ranked as the 49th overall prospect in the class of 2018, the fourth best third baseman overall, and the best player in New Hampshire for his age.
Extremely humbled to announce my commitment to play baseball at the University of Texas. #HOOKEM #Longhorns
— Bryce Reagan (@ReaganBryce) September 23, 2016
Reagan’s commitment diverges from Pierce’s typical pledges because nearly all of the coach’s previous Texas commits are raw, under the radar prospects — many of whom are not nationally ranked. Reagan on the other hand is a Perfect Game honorable mention All-American, praised for his bat and hand speed, which are both in the 99 percentile for his class.
The Amherst (N.H.) native is also the first out of state pledge of the post-Augie Garrido era. Pierce and company are known for being fantastic in-state recruiters, and have seemingly searched every inch of the Lone Star state for prospects. But Reagan’s commitment shows that Texas will still recruit nearly 2,000 miles away from the Forty Acres to secure top talent.
However, while the Souhegan Coop High School junior’s background is different than other Longhorn commits, he continues the trend of Texas pledges having large frames. At 6’2 and a lean 190 pounds, Reagan rips through the ball with a strength and speed unmatched by his peers.
As an out-of-stater with only a so-so GPA, Reagan has almost certainly been offered a full ride or near full ride to showcase his skills in Austin (teams are only allowed 11.7 scholarships). The question that remains is, will he make it to campus at all?
Texas was gutted in the draft this season by high school commits foregoing college play to head straight to the pros. In total, the Longhorns lost three of their 12 pledges to the draft, including Gatorade National Player of the Year Kyle Muller. At the moment, Reagan appears like a candidate to go pro, and committing to the Longhorns will only elevate his draft stock.
Before Pierce took over the ‘Horns, Texas’ 2018 class was lagging to say the least — the team had no commitments. Now, an extremely well rounded group of eight prospects have pledged to play for the burnt orange.
Texas’ 2018 class is now ranked 27th in the nation.