MLB.com’s latest Top 200 draft prospects list features a strong showing from the Sun Belt Conference, with four standout players earning national recognition ahead of the 2025 MLB Draft.
Each player delivered a dominant season and attracted attention from scouts with a combination of production, tools and potential. Their inclusion in the rankings underscores the rising talent across the Sun Belt and the conference’s growing reputation as a pipeline to professional baseball. The Sun Belt announced June 17 that a conference-record 29 players were invited to the MLB Draft Combine, including the four prospects listed below. Statistics are through games completed June 18.
RHP JB Middleton, Southern Miss (MLB.com ranking: 34th)
Middleton made a strong case for himself in the 2025 season at Southern Miss. The right-handed pitcher finished with a 10-1 record and a 2.31 ERA in 16 starts. He struck out 122 batters in 105.1 innings and held opposing hitters to a .174 average. Middleton showed advanced command and a mature approach on the mound, often working ahead in counts and forcing weak contact. His fastball sits in the mid-90s, and his slider has developed into a reliable strikeout pitch.
Another scoreless frame of work from JB
Two strikeouts (Kꓘ) for 18 so far
M2 | 0-0#EverythingMatters | #SMTTT pic.twitter.com/EHeXj7ACEz
— Southern Miss Baseball (@SouthernMissBSB) May 31, 2025
Middleton’s mix of velocity, control and durability makes him an attractive prospect in the upcoming MLB Draft. He projects as a solid Day 2 selection, likely in the third round. A team like the Tampa Bay Rays, who value pitchability and development potential, could take him around the 85th overall pick. With his college production and competitive edge, Middleton has a chance to rise quickly through the minor leagues.
C Caden Bodine, Coastal Carolina (MLB.com ranking: 38th)
Caden Bodine turned in a steady and productive season as Coastal Carolina’s starting catcher in 2025. He hit .326 with 18 doubles, five home runs and 42 RBIs, while posting a .473 slugging percentage. Bodine showed strong plate discipline, drawing 47 walks and getting hit by a pitch 15 times. He brings a mature approach at the plate, with the ability to work counts and drive the ball to all fields. Behind the plate, he’s a reliable defender with a strong arm and solid footwork. His leadership and game-calling are also viewed as key strengths.
A few tips from one of the best#MCWS x 🎥 ESPN / @CoastalBaseball pic.twitter.com/ZJBIjoPl62
— NCAA Baseball (@NCAABaseball) June 18, 2025
Bodine’s offensive consistency and defensive reliability give him a clear path to the pros. He projects as a fourth- or fifth-round pick in the 2025 MLB Draft. A team like the Cleveland Guardians, known for developing polished college hitters and valuing catcher depth, could target him around the 140th overall pick. With his balanced skill set and high baseball IQ, Bodine has the tools to develop into a dependable big-league backstop.
C Brooks Bryan, Troy (MLB.com ranking: 179th)
Brooks Bryan delivered a solid season for Troy in 2025 as the team’s starting catcher. He hit .279 with 18 doubles, two triples and 12 home runs, showing good gap power and the ability to drive the ball. His .533 slugging percentage reflects his strength and bat speed. Bryan also showed discipline at the plate, drawing 37 walks and getting hit by a pitch nine times. Behind the plate, he offers above-average arm strength and improved receiving skills, with good mobility and a strong work ethic.
Bryan’s mix of offensive upside and defensive potential makes him a candidate for the middle rounds of the 2025 MLB Draft. He projects as a fifth- to sixth-round pick. A team like the San Francisco Giants, who value athletic catchers with pop and leadership qualities, could take him around the 170th overall pick. With continued development, Bryan has the tools to become a valuable depth piece with starter potential at the next level.
RHP Jacob Morrison, Coastal Carolina (MLB.com ranking: 181st)
Jacob Morrison put together a dominant season for Coastal Carolina in 2025. The right-hander finished with a 12-0 record and a 2.08 ERA over 17 starts. He struck out 102 batters in 104 innings and held opponents to a .194 average. Morrison mixes a low-90s fastball with a sharp breaking ball and a developing changeup. His command and ability to pitch deep into games make him one of the more reliable arms in college baseball.
Morrison is him.@CoastalBaseball x @d1baseball pic.twitter.com/XmoMjsNTVo
— Mid-Majors on D1Baseball (@midmajors_d1) June 16, 2025
Morrison’s production, polish and poise on the mound make him a strong candidate for the second or third round of the 2025 MLB Draft. A team like the Milwaukee Brewers, known for identifying and developing college pitchers, could target him around the 65th overall pick. With his proven track record and advanced pitchability, Morrison projects as a high-floor starter with potential to move quickly through the minor leagues.
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