| Player: Vahn Lackey | |||||||||||
| School: Georgia Tech | Position(s): C | ||||||||||
| Height: 6’2″ | Weight: 200 lbs. | Bats: Right | Throws: Right | ||||||||
| Summary: Lackey, widely regarded as the top catching prospect in the 2026 draft displays athleticism rarely seen at the position. Viewed early on as a defensive first prospect, Lackey has continued to find his way at the plate. In the first five weeks of the 2026 season he has shown considerable improvement on the offensive side, both from an overall hit tool perspective and is now flashing plus power. His stroke has evolved since his freshman year with the Yellow Jackets, now showing an aptitude for more launch. He sets up neutral in the box with his lead leg drawing back considerably toward the catcher before landing. His hands stay back well, giving him an opportunity to adjust to all pitch types. He gets good extension with a follow through now finishing higher than it has in year’s past. He’s on pace for over 20 home runs this season and is now showing potential to consistently do the same at the next level. His athleticism behind the plate may be the most impressive part of his game. His ability to exchange and get rid of the baseball is unmatched at the Division 1 level. He has a plus arm and has become more accurate with experience. He blocks the baseball extremely well, giving pitchers the confidence to unleash their full repertoire in any situation. He’s continued to improve his receiving skills and will only get better with time. In addition to all of the traditional metrics you look for in a top tier catcher, Lackey also flashed plus speed. Despite the everyday rigors of working behind the plate, he has the ability to steal bases and change the course of the game on the base paths. Big league clubs may look to keep Lackey fresh by utilizing him other positions as he acclimates to the demands of a full pro season. He recently played eight positions (all but pitcher) in a game and has logged time at 3rd base for the Yellow Jackets. A special talent with plenty more upside, Lackey should hear his name called early on Day 1 this July. | |||||||||||
Eric Dillinger is currently the Head Baseball Coach at Erie High School, entering his 4th season as the Head Coach and 9th season overall. Dillinger was the pitching coach at Erie prior to becoming head coach. At the club level, he has coached nationally for multiple organizations including the Colorado Yard Dawgs, the Colorado Rockies Scout program, and USA Prime. Dillinger is also currently the General Manager for D-BAT NW Denver. In addition to his duties as GM, he is also a senior pitching instructor. He is certified in Rapsodo Pitching and is also Driveline Certified (Pitch Design). Beyond coaching on the field, Dillinger enjoys helping athletes in the recruiting process. He has helped over 40 athletes find homes at the next level.
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