Grady Saunders, a right‑handed ace from Thurston High, has emerged as one of the most coveted arms in the 2026 high school class. Projected to be selected in the early rounds of the MLB Draft, the 6‑foot‑3 senior has already pledged to continue his career at Oregon State University, a decision that adds intrigue to an already competitive postseason.
A Pitcher at a Crossroads
The Colts sit at No. 8 in the Class 5A rankings and will open the state tournament against No. 9 seed Bend at their home field in Eugene. After a stretch in which they dropped early games to injury and inexperience, the team has rallied, winning 10 of its last 12 outings and entering the playoffs with a clear sense of purpose.
Coach Dennis Minium has emphasized the unique composition of his squad, noting a smaller core of veterans paired with a wave of younger players who have stepped up as the season progressed. "We’ve had to adapt quickly," Minium said, "but the chemistry is there, and the kids are buying into the process."
Key Players Step Up
Senior shortstop Brock Johnson and junior cleanup hitter Parker Edwards have posted standout statistics, while the return of Bryson Bowser and Levi Woodman from injury has fortified the lineup. Their combined experience provides the stability the team lacked at the start of the year.
Scouts have been frequent visitors to Thurston’s games, drawn by Saunders’s electric fastball and poise under pressure. The attention initially unsettled some teammates, but the pitcher says he remains focused on each pitch, each at‑bat, and each practice, treating every moment as an opportunity to improve.
With the first‑round matchup looming, the Colts are poised to translate their late‑season momentum into a deeper run. Whether Saunders ultimately signs a professional contract or heads to Corvallis, the current chapter of Thurston baseball promises to be one of the most compelling stories in Oregon high school sports.