Gardner‑Webb University has unveiled a 37‑player recruiting class that will join the baseball program for the 2027 season, a group that has already been positioned 76th in the national rankings and sits atop the Big South Conference for the second straight year.
Building on Recent Momentum
The class blends experienced transfers with a wave of freshmen, many of whom bring elite high school pedigrees in pitching and infield play, setting the stage for a competitive push in the upcoming campaign.
Among the newcomers, Jack Beard from Charlotte Christian High School arrives with a 2.10 earned run average and 45 strikeouts recorded during the 2025 high school season, signaling a strong arm for the rotation.
Noah Entrekin, a freshman out of Edmond Memorial Kingsmen, brings a 4‑1 record, a 1.64 ERA and 75 strikeouts from the 2026 campaign, underscoring his reliability on the mound.
Harrison Frank, another freshman from Holy Name High School, earned Second Team All‑Conference honors in both 2024 and 2025, highlighting his consistent defensive contributions.
Joe Kelly, hailing from Loyola Academy in Illinois, entered the spotlight as the state’s No. 19 prospect and logged 30 strikeouts across 12 games in 2026, promising depth in the pitching staff.
Dominic Marino from Hazleton Area High School not only helped his team capture three conference titles but also maintained strong academic performance, reflecting the program’s emphasis on scholar‑athletes.
Bam McNab of Holy Ghost Prep posted a 1.29 ERA and garnered Second Team All‑Area recognition in 2025, adding another arm with a track record of dominance.
Hudson Newell, a two‑time 2A State Champion from North Cobb Christian, will catch for the team and was also named All‑Region for his defensive work behind the plate.
Michael Martinez of Allentown Central Catholic concluded his high school career with a .322 batting average and earned ten Perfect Game All‑Tournament Team selections, bringing a potent bat to the lineup.