Austin Hopper

Congratulations @Austin1hopper of @BaseballRSC on your Commitment to @CCCYetis_BSBL In my opinion, Hopper is the top 2027 pitching prospect coming out of Rutherford County, so this is a great fit for both sides. With a FB rising into the high 8's and tough slider, Hopper improved his command and broke out in the 2nd half of the Varsity season and carried that success into Senior Legion with Post 423 RS Central had its 11th straight winning season in 2026 including a sweep of county rival East Rutherford. However, this strong Senior heavy squad has a chance to bring home a Conference Title for the first time since 2021 this Spring. They'll have a great shot to win any night "The Hop" is on the bump. @chaddfowler @BriggsBarker4 @5_jrg @alexkhan024 @Chris_Womack

2027 RHP @Austin1hopper of @BaseballRSC has quietly worked his way into conversations about who are the top Uncommitted rising senior arms in WNC after an excellent 2nd half of the Varsity Season and a strong Senior Legion campaign for Post 423 Austin's FB definitely showcased more "hop" this year as he was sitting 84-86, touching 87 MPH. After struggling with command in the 1st half of the Varsity season, Hopper hit a new level in the 2nd half, earning some big W's, including one over county rival ER to complete the season sweep of a strong Cavs team. He also assumed the role of Ace during Area IV Senior Legion play this summer. His FB had spins up to 2105 and solid IVB numbers from a tilt averaging 12:15. The SL spins were up to 2247 and the shape held tight. Takes the spin of the CH well (avg 1372) but is still working on feel. At only 5'11" 155, Hopper has a slender frame with a lot of quick twitch muscle. Really good body control for such a quick arm. Once he gets physical, 90+ will come quicker. Solid 4.2 GPA, but still Undecided on Career Path. Great JUCO Route Candidate as I feel he'll be a quick riser. @chaddfowler

2027 RHP @Austin1hopper got the start for @BaseballRSC. He flashed some strikeout stuff while sitting 82-84. He struggled with command, issuing 6 BBs in 2.1 IP allowing 3 R on 1 H while collecting 2 Ks The stuff is there with a potentially electric arm. Good one to track. @chaddfowler @NovaXkinetics

2027 OF/RHP @Austin1hopper also showed well during the Position Player portion of the 8/16 Prospect Filming. Needs to get more consistent with finding the barrel, but he definitely found a barrel in the Live ABs sending a laser off the fence. 90+ EVs. A little too pull happy in his approach, bat path. Arm plays well in the OF; looks comfortable and under control. 7.27 60 yd. Great student, 4.38 GPA, Undecided in Degree Path

The HOP! Very impressed with 2027 RHP/OF @Austin1hopper of @BaseballRSC; I've known Austin since he was a frosh back in 2024; always thought he had a lively arm, even back then. He showed it again on 8/16 at @ForestCityOwls when he dialed his FB up to 85 MPH Lots of Spins on the FB too: 2357 max w/ solid IVB numbers. SL and the CB have interesting shapes and bite as well. Also throws a hard CH that probably needs a bit more movement. Wiry body, good athlete, good body control through the delivery, steady eyes. I think he hits 90 mph before the end of HS if he works his tail off. Legion guy in the Summers. @chaddfowler