Padres Prospects on the Rise: Salas, Ornelas, De Vries & Brooks Making Noise in the Minors!

Padres Prospect Watch: Trenton Brooks Shines While Top Picks Salas and De Vries Start Slow

The 2025 Minor League Baseball season is heating up, and San Diego Padres prospects are starting to show what they’re made of. While top-ranked talents like Leo De Vries and Ethan Salas are still getting their footing, it’s 29-year-old Trenton Brooks who’s stealing the spotlight with a red-hot start. And don’t sleep on Tirso Ornelas—he’s quietly making a strong case for a call-up.

Let’s dive into the latest buzz from the Padres’ farm system.

Leo De Vries & Ethan Salas: Talented but Treading Carefully
Ranked as San Diego’s top two prospects—and the only ones cracking MLB’s Top 100—De Vries and Salas entered the season with high expectations. De Vries, playing for High-A Fort Wayne, is 4-for-16 across his first four games, but has struck out six times. Still, he’s managed to cross the plate once per game, showing a knack for finding ways to contribute even when the bat isn’t blazing.

Salas, now with Double-A San Antonio, has a .211 batting average through five games. While that’s not eye-popping, the 18-year-old catcher has racked up five RBIs and just two strikeouts, proving he can deliver in clutch moments.

Tirso Ornelas: Too Hot to Ignore
After a strong showing in spring training, many fans were calling for Ornelas to crack the big-league roster. Though he started the year with Triple-A El Paso, the outfielder has been on fire. Through 11 games, he’s slashing .293 (12-for-41) with six RBIs, a home run, a double, and eight walks. He’s also scored in six straight games and is riding a four-game hit streak. If he keeps this pace, a promotion may be just around the corner.

Trenton Brooks: The Unexpected Star
The biggest surprise of the Padres’ farm system? Trenton Brooks. The 29-year-old slugger has been nothing short of dominant for El Paso. In his first 11 games, he’s recorded five doubles, four homers, 16 RBIs, 12 runs, and 10 walks. He’s not only had six multi-hit games but has recorded at least one hit in every appearance—including a thrilling walk-off homer last Thursday.

If Brooks continues this tear, he could force the Padres’ hand, even as a late bloomer.

Bottom line: While the future of Padres baseball is still developing, the present belongs to a veteran making a serious statement.

Ranger Suárez Returns, But Phillies Suffer Heartbreaker in Extras vs. Diamondbacks

Ranger Suárez Returns, But Phillies Drop Extra-Inning Thriller to Diamondbacks

In a dramatic Sunday showdown, Ranger Suárez made his long-awaited season debut for the Philadelphia Phillies—but it wasn’t enough to fend off the Arizona Diamondbacks, who stormed to an 11-9 win in extra innings to close out the weekend series.

Suárez, sidelined with back stiffness since spring, showed signs of rust, surrendering seven runs on seven hits in just 3 2/3 innings. The Diamondbacks capitalized early, jumping to a 7-2 lead by the fifth behind big performances from Geraldo Perdomo and Corbin Carroll, who each drove in three runs. Josh Naylor delivered the dagger in the 10th inning with an RBI single that sparked a three-run burst for Arizona.

Tim Tawa followed with a sacrifice fly, and the insurance run came when Perdomo drew a bases-loaded walk, pushing Arizona ahead 11-8.

Still, the Phillies didn’t go quietly. In the bottom of the 10th, Max Kepler’s sacrifice fly brought home a run, cutting the deficit to 11-9. With two men on, Bryce Harper had a chance to play hero, but he flied out to center, and Kyle Schwarber grounded out to first, ending the rally and the game.

Schwarber, who extended his on-base streak to 40 games, had earlier ignited a ninth-inning rally that tied the game 8-8. After launching his 11th homer of the season, Schwarber watched Nick Castellanos, J.T. Realmuto, and Alec Bohm string together three straight hits to push across the tying run against previously unscored-upon reliever Shelby Miller.

Weston Wilson also delivered a three-run bomb in the sixth, and Harper got things going with a first-inning solo shot. But the Phillies’ bullpen couldn’t contain Arizona’s late push. José Alvarado (3-1) took the loss, while Jalen Beeks earned his first save for Arizona.

Despite the loss, the Phillies (now looking to rebound) have a travel day Monday before opening a three-game set against the Tampa Bay Rays. Zack Wheeler will take the mound Tuesday.

The Diamondbacks, who are now 8-3 in series finales, return to Arizona to begin a home stand against the New York Mets.

Bruce Pearl Predicts Game-Changer: New Transfer Set to Shake Up Auburn Basketball

Auburn Lands Big-Time Scorer Bruce Pearl Says Could Be a Game-Changer in 2025-26

Auburn basketball is entering a new era. After a thrilling 2024-25 season that ended with a Final Four appearance — the program’s second in six years — the Tigers are facing a nearly complete roster overhaul. Most of last season’s core is either out of eligibility or exploring other opportunities through the transfer portal. With only standout freshman Tahaad Pettiford potentially returning (he declared for the NBA Draft but maintained his college eligibility), head coach Bruce Pearl knew he had to make a splash in the offseason.

Enter Keyshawn Hall.

The former UCF star was the first transfer commitment to Auburn this spring, and Pearl is confident Hall will make an immediate and significant impact. “Keyshawn was one of the most impactful players in the transfer portal,” Pearl said via Auburn Live. “He was the leading scorer in the Big 12 and is a bucket getter… a matchup nightmare for the opponent.”

Hall is coming off a stellar season where he led the Big 12 in scoring, averaging 18.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. A dynamic offensive threat, he shot 42.7% from the field, 35.4% from three, and an impressive 84.4% from the free-throw line. His ability to score at all three levels and guard multiple positions makes him a versatile and dangerous addition to the Tigers’ backcourt.

Pearl emphasized that Hall’s hunger to win and finish his college career strong was a key reason he chose Auburn. And with the Tigers now in rebuild mode following their postseason success, Hall will have every opportunity to step into a leadership role and keep Auburn’s momentum rolling.

While the upcoming season will bring many new faces, Hall’s commitment signals that Auburn isn’t planning to take a step back. With Bruce Pearl at the helm and an elite scorer like Hall joining the fold, the Tigers are already reloading with championship aspirations still in sight.

Hokies Reload: Virginia Tech Snags Explosive Jackson State WR in Transfer Portal Steal!

Virginia Tech Rebuilds WR Corps with Dynamic Jackson State Transfer Isaiah Spencer

Virginia Tech has taken a major step in rebuilding its wide receiver unit with the addition of Jackson State standout Isaiah Spencer, addressing one of the Hokies’ most pressing offseason needs. After losing top contributors Da’Quan Felton, Jaylin Lane, Stephen Gosnell, and Ali Jennings to the NFL, the once-deep WR room suddenly became a position in flux. With a new offensive coordinator in Philip Montgomery and rising quarterbacks Kyron Drones and Pop Watson leading the charge, it became clear that reinforcements were needed—urgently.

The Hokies were already active in the winter transfer portal, securing commitments from Tennessee’s Cameron Seldon and Wake Forest veteran Donavon Greene. Still, finding another weapon was critical during the spring portal window. That final piece may have just arrived in the form of Spencer, who announced his commitment Sunday night after visiting Blacksburg last week.

The 6-foot-2, 185-pound Mississippi native brings big-play ability and special teams value. Spencer hauled in 35 catches for 660 yards and four touchdowns last season, displaying an explosive presence in Jackson State’s offense. Over two seasons, he totaled 59 receptions for 867 yards and five touchdowns across 25 games. His speed, open-field shiftiness, and return experience make him a versatile addition to Virginia Tech’s roster.

Spencer’s recruitment was competitive, with the Hokies fending off Power Five programs like Cal, Kentucky, Washington State, and West Virginia. Ultimately, Virginia Tech’s need and vision for him won out. His arrival adds another layer of depth and experience to a WR group that’s looking to regroup and reload, not rebuild.

While there are still questions surrounding the Hokies’ pass-catching unit, Sunday night’s addition solidified momentum heading into summer workouts. Seldon has already flashed potential in spring practices, Greene brings valuable ACC experience, and now Spencer offers a proven, productive presence with upside.

With the wide receiver room shaping up, Virginia Tech has positioned itself to help Drones and Watson thrive in Montgomery’s offense this fall. Spencer’s commitment could be a turning point as the Hokies aim to climb back into ACC contention in 2025.

Indiana Strikes Gold: Former 5-Star Wing Joins Hoosiers in Blockbuster Portal Move!

Indiana Reloads: Former 5-Star Talent Zania Socka-Nguemen Joins Hoosiers in Major Transfer Portal Win

After a tough end to the 2024-25 season, the Indiana Hoosiers women’s basketball program is making big moves to reshape its future—and Saturday brought a significant step forward. Indiana has landed former 5-star wing Zania Socka-Nguemen out of the transfer portal, a pickup that could be pivotal in their efforts to reload for the 2025-26 campaign.

The commitment was first reported by Talia Goodman of On3 Sports, and it signals a homecoming of sorts. Socka-Nguemen was heavily recruited by Indiana out of high school, but ultimately chose UCLA over the Hoosiers, Michigan, and Tennessee. Now, after a season of limited action in Westwood, she’s ready for a fresh start—and Indiana is ready to welcome her with open arms.

Socka-Nguemen arrives in Bloomington as part of a larger exodus from UCLA, which has seen several top players flee the program following a disappointing finish to their national title bid. Among those departing are fellow freshmen Elina Aarnisalo, Kendall Dudley, and Avary Cain, as well as veterans Janiah Barker and Londynn Jones. It’s a talent drain that Indiana has taken full advantage of.

During her freshman year, Socka-Nguemen saw limited minutes—averaging just over five per game in 16 appearances—but the upside is undeniable. She averaged 1.5 points and 1.5 rebounds per game while shooting 40% from the field and 66.7% from the free-throw line. Though her numbers were modest, her potential remains sky-high, especially in a system where she can grow and shine.

For Indiana, this move comes at a critical time. Following their Round of 32 loss to South Carolina in the NCAA Tournament, the Hoosiers saw several key contributors enter the portal, leaving the program in flux. With only a few returners expected for next season, head coach Teri Moren and her staff have been aggressive in the portal—and Socka-Nguemen is one of their biggest gets yet.

If the Hoosiers can tap into her high school form and develop her skill set, they may have landed a future star. At the very least, it’s a statement that Indiana is not just rebuilding—they’re reloading.

Too Many Signings, Too Few Wins? Virginia Tech Baseball Hits Rock Bottom After Devastating Pitt Sweep

Virginia Tech Baseball in Freefall After Crushing Sweep by Pitt: NCAA Hopes Fading Fast

Virginia Tech’s baseball team walked into Pittsburgh with hopes of reversing their late-season slump. Instead, they left with their NCAA Tournament dreams hanging by a thread. What was supposed to be a get-right series against a struggling Panthers squad turned into a complete nightmare — a sweep that extended the Hokies’ ACC losing streak to four straight weekends.

Coming off back-to-back series defeats at the hands of Florida State, North Carolina, and Duke, the Hokies desperately needed wins to regain momentum and strengthen their postseason resume. Pitt entered the weekend with a dismal 6-15 conference record, seemingly setting the stage for a Virginia Tech bounce-back. But instead, the Panthers pounced, leaving Tech with more questions than answers.

Friday’s series opener set the tone as Virginia Tech fell 9-5. Rain postponed Saturday’s contest, forcing a Sunday doubleheader — a day that delivered even more heartache. Pitt secured their first ACC series win of the season by taking Game 1 of the doubleheader 5-3. Game 2 was a rollercoaster — the Hokies took a dramatic 13-11 lead in the top of the 13th inning, only to watch Pitt walk it off with three runs in the bottom half for a 14-13 stunner.

It was a brutal, demoralizing sweep that highlighted Virginia Tech’s biggest issue this season: pitching. Once again, the Hokies’ arms faltered in key moments, allowing opponents to capitalize late. And with just a handful of games left before the ACC Tournament, time is running out to fix it.

Now sitting at 27-21 overall and 11-16 in the ACC, the Hokies are guaranteed a losing conference record. They’ll try to regroup in a non-conference matchup at Liberty this week — the same Flames team that dismantled them 13-4 just days ago in Blacksburg.

Coach John Szefc’s squad returns home for a final push: two games against Mercer, a midweek clash with Marshall, and a high-stakes final ACC series against in-state rival Virginia. But if the Hokies don’t find answers quickly, they may once again find themselves on the wrong side of the NCAA Tournament bubble — a frustratingly familiar fate.

Will Tech turn it around in time, or has their postseason window already slammed shut?

Surprise Pick! Raiders Grab Dual-Threat QB Tommy Mellott Late in 2025 NFL Draft

Raiders Roll the Dice on Versatile Star Tommy Mellott in Late-Round Draft Surprise

With the 213th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders made one of their most intriguing moves yet—selecting Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott in the sixth round. But don’t be fooled by the “QB” label—Mellott brings a rare blend of athleticism and versatility that could see him take on a much different role at the next level.

Mellott is no stranger to making headlines. The dynamic playmaker dominated at the FCS level in 2024, earning the prestigious Walter Payton Award, handed annually to the top offensive player in FCS football. His standout season included 2,138 passing yards and an eye-popping 22-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio—a stat line that turned heads across the scouting world. But Mellott isn’t just a pocket passer. He’s an athlete in the purest sense of the word, and the Raiders are betting big on that potential.

In fact, the 6-foot-1 talent also drew attention during his Pro Day for taking reps as a wide receiver—fueling speculation that Las Vegas may see him more as a gadget weapon than a traditional quarterback. His speed, football IQ, and competitiveness have made him a fan favorite at Montana State, and those same qualities could help him carve out a unique role in the Raiders’ offense.

This marks the second FCS selection by the Raiders this year, signaling a willingness to look beyond the Power Five for hidden gems. Mellott may have flown under the radar compared to bigger-name prospects, but his combination of production, adaptability, and raw athletic skill make him an intriguing project pick with serious upside.

While there’s no guarantee Mellott sees time under center in the NFL, the Raiders’ willingness to take a chance on his dynamic skill set shows they’re thinking creatively about their offensive future. Whether he becomes a Taysom Hill-style hybrid weapon or settles into a full receiver transition, Mellott is a name to watch as training camp approaches.

Las Vegas may have waited until the sixth round to make this move—but if Mellott can translate his game to the pros, this late-round gamble could pay off in a big way

Broncos Beef Up Secondary with Bold Pick: Texas Star Jahdae Barron Joins the Mile High Defense

The Denver Broncos made a powerful statement on Day 1 of the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron with the 20th overall pick—a move that signals a renewed focus on shoring up their defense and returning to the franchise’s hard-hitting identity.

Barron, a standout at Texas known for his instinctive play and physical edge, brings immediate versatility to a Broncos secondary that needed a fresh infusion of talent. While many expected Denver to target an offensive weapon or bolster their quarterback depth, General Manager George Paton and Head Coach Sean Payton turned heads by grabbing one of the most polished defensive backs on the board.

Team reporter Elisa Hernandez and lead writer Aric DiLalla broke down the selection in a post-draft analysis, praising Barron’s ability to quickly read plays, stick to receivers in tight coverage, and deliver hits with authority. His time at Texas showcased his knack for breaking up passes, stepping into the box when needed, and playing with relentless intensity—traits that make him a dream fit for Denver’s evolving defense.

The Broncos have struggled with consistency in their secondary over the past few seasons, relying heavily on veterans like Patrick Surtain II. With Barron now in the mix, Denver not only adds depth but also positions itself for long-term success with a potentially elite cornerback duo. His college numbers tell the story—Barron recorded multiple interceptions, double-digit pass breakups, and consistently ranked among the top defenders in the Big 12.

What makes the pick even more strategic is Barron’s football IQ and leadership—qualities that can’t be measured just by stats. He’s the kind of player who elevates those around him and will bring a no-nonsense, aggressive energy that Broncos fans have craved.

Of course, the decision wasn’t without risk. Some analysts questioned passing on offensive linemen or quarterbacks, but Barron’s upside, versatility, and pro-ready skillset give Denver a piece to build around in a division loaded with elite passing offenses.

In short, the Broncos didn’t just draft a cornerback—they drafted a tone-setter. If Jahdae Barron’s transition to the NFL is as smooth as expected, this pick could be one of the smartest defensive moves of the entire 2025 Draft.

ACC Softball Bracket Revealed — You Won’t Believe Where Virginia Tech Landed!

Virginia Tech Secures No. 4 Seed as ACC Softball Tournament Bracket Is Locked In — All Eyes Now on Boston

The field is officially set for the 2025 ACC Softball Tournament, and while one regular-season game remains, all seeding is finalized ahead of Wednesday’s first pitch in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. For teams still fighting for a ticket to the NCAA Tournament, this single-elimination showdown is make-or-break. For Virginia Tech, it’s about something just as critical — maximizing their national seeding potential.

The Hokies entered the final weekend with a shot at claiming the ACC regular season title, but those hopes were dashed by powerhouse Florida State. The ninth-ranked Seminoles dominated the first two games of the series in Blacksburg, clinching the conference crown before the finale even began. Despite the setback, Virginia Tech will enter the ACC Tournament as the No. 4 seed, setting them up for a Thursday night quarterfinal matchup.

Here’s how the bracket breaks down:

ACC Softball Tournament First Round – Wednesday

  • Game 1: No. 8 Georgia Tech vs. No. 9 California – 11:00 AM

  • Game 2: No. 5 Stanford vs. No. 12 Pittsburgh – 1:30 PM

  • Game 3: No. 7 Virginia vs. No. 10 Louisville – 5:00 PM

  • Game 4: No. 6 North Carolina vs. No. 11 Notre Dame – 7:30 PM

Quarterfinals – Thursday

  • Game 5: No. 1 Florida State vs. Game 1 Winner – 11:00 AM

  • Game 6: No. 4 Duke vs. Game 2 Winner – 1:30 PM

  • Game 7: No. 3 Clemson vs. Game 3 Winner – 5:00 PM

  • Game 8: No. 4 Virginia Tech vs. Game 4 Winner – 7:30 PM

Semifinals – Friday

  • Game 9: Winners of Games 5 & 6 – 1:00 PM

  • Game 10: Winners of Games 7 & 8 – 3:30 PM

Championship Game – Saturday

  • Game 11: Semifinal winners face off at 2:30 PM on ESPN

The Hokies may not have clinched the regular-season title, but their ACC Tournament journey is far from over. With a national seed and the chance to host a regional on the line, Virginia Tech has everything to play for. But with unpredictable Boston weather looming and a stacked bracket full of hungry contenders, the road to the championship won’t be easy.

Can the Hokies bounce back and make a statement run? All eyes will be on Boston starting Wednesday.

Total Shutdown: FSU Hurler Dismantles Virginia Tech’s Softball Offense

The Virginia Tech Hokies came into Saturday’s ACC showdown against No. 9 Florida State with high hopes of evening the series and reigniting their offensive firepower. But instead of bouncing back, they were completely stifled—this time by FSU’s dominant pitcher, Jazzy Francik, who delivered a masterclass in control and composure.

After a rough series opener that saw the Seminoles explode for a 13-4 victory, the Hokies hoped for a turnaround with ace Emma Lemley in the circle. However, trouble started early. Before Tech even had a chance to swing the bats in the first inning, they found themselves trailing 2-0—a deficit that only grew as the game wore on.

Francik proved to be untouchable, shutting down one of the most potent offenses in the ACC. The Seminoles’ right-hander didn’t allow a single hit, issuing just three walks and striking out three. Relying heavily on her defense and a sharp pitch mix, she completely neutralized Virginia Tech’s sluggers, leading FSU to a commanding run-rule win.

Meanwhile, Lemley—typically a steady force for the Hokies—was uncharacteristically off her game. She gave up eight earned runs on nine hits, including two long balls, and struggled to find a rhythm. The Seminoles continued to apply pressure at every turn, eventually chasing Lemley after 5.2 innings. Cassie Grizzard recorded the final out of the sixth, but by then, the damage was done.

The loss dropped Virginia Tech to 39-10 overall and 17-6 in conference play. With just one game left in the series on Sunday, the Hokies are not only trying to avoid a sweep at the hands of Florida State—they’re fighting to keep their NCAA Regional hosting hopes alive. A third straight loss could seriously damage their postseason seeding.

With the ACC Tournament looming next weekend in Boston, Virginia Tech is in urgent need of a momentum shift. Sunday’s finale isn’t just about pride—it’s about salvaging a crucial series and reestablishing confidence heading into championship play.

Will the Hokies respond, or will FSU complete the sweep and send a statement? One thing’s for sure: Virginia Tech’s offense needs to wake up fast.