TEMECULA – Southern California is a powerhouse of baseball talent, consistently shaping players who go on to dominate the professional leagues. The 2025 MLB Draft reinforces this tradition with a stellar lineup of athletes whose skills, stories, and dedication highlight the region’s significance in the world of baseball. From rising high school stars to seasoned professionals breaking through the ranks, Southern California remains at the epicenter of America’s pastime.
Among the top prospects in this year’s MLB draft, Great Oak High School’s Gavin Fien stands out not just for his baseball prowess but also for the legacy that inspires him. Growing up in a family steeped in athletic achievement, Gavin’s talent and dedication have been molded by examples of what hard work can do for you.
His father, Ryan Fien, was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in 1996 and excelled as the starting quarterback for both UCLA and the University of Idaho. Though his baseball career was short-lived, this blend of athletic excellence has influenced Gavin, fostering a competitive mindset and an unwavering pursuit of greatness.
Temecula’s Gavin Fien hopes to continue to display his defensive skills at third base as a professional. Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography
For Gavin, baseball is more than a sport—it’s a way of life. His consistent performances on the field showcase his natural talent. From batting .400 during the 18U World Cup qualifier to earning MVP honors at MLB Develops, Fien has demonstrated why he belongs in first-round draft conversations. Scouts rave about his bat speed and ability to make precise contact, though challenges with his unorthodox hitting stance caused a slight dip during his spring high school season. Still, his potential is apparent to anyone watching.
“I just like to go out there and compete. Love hitting and stuff. That’s kind of my thing,” Fien explained earlier this year when asked about his approach to the game.
Support also comes in the form of his older brother Dylan, currently playing in the Oakland Athletics system. Gavin cites Dylan’s relentless work ethic as a blueprint for his own success. “Seeing my brother’s commitment to grinding every day drives me to do the same,” he shared.
On draft night, Gavin will be surrounded by family and friends at his dad’s house, eagerly awaiting the life-changing call. “Having two sons playing professional baseball is truly special. We’re so proud of Gavin and can’t wait to see where this next chapter takes him,” his mother, Meghan Fien, reflected.
Corona’s Billy Carlson at shortstop during the 2025 prep baseball season. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group
It’s no secret that Southern California is a hotbed for talent, producing elite players who continue to make their mark on Major League Baseball. This year, several standout high school athletes from SoCal are following in the footsteps of pros before them. Nowhere is this more evident than at Corona High School, a program that has become a consistent launching pad for aspiring professionals. The Panthers’ baseball legacy is built on decades of competitive excellence, tenacious coaching, and a tradition of preparing players for the next level.
Corona’s alumni roster reads like a who’s who of big-league contributors—topped by former Dodgers pitcher and World Series champion Joe Kelly, whose electric arm and competitive fire defined his long MLB tenure. The program’s reach doesn’t stop there. Notable names such as Tristan Beck, a pitcher for the San Francisco Giants, and Samad Taylor, who has made his mark with the Seattle Mariners and Kansas City Royals, further exemplify the school’s impact on the professional game. Other MLB alumni include Mike Darr, Isaiah Greene, and Michael Hobbs, each of whom left their own footprints on the pro landscape. Current MSJC head baseball coach, Ed Hurtado, drafted by the Angels in 1998, also came from Corona High School.
Guiding this tradition is head coach Andy Wise, who credits the program’s edge to its emphasis on mental toughness. “The mental side of the game is just as crucial as physical talent,” Wise remarks. He attributes much of Corona’s sustained success to this focus, noting that former mentors and targeted mental training have helped shape the competitive drive seen in Panther athletes year after year.
Scouts and fans crowded the stands at Corona High School to watch Seth Hernandez pitch during his standout senior season. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group
Year after year, Corona’s environment continues to shape top-tier talent, driving home the message that hard work and community create lasting legacies. The current class carries that torch forward—young athletes aware that they’re not just playing for wins in the here and now, but for a chance to add their names to an increasingly illustrious list of professionals who wore Panther colors.
High School Standouts
- Billy Carlson (Corona High School): A Tennessee commit and one of the sharpest shortstop prospects in the draft, Carlson’s exceptional defensive skills and hitting potential have drawn national attention.
- Seth Hernandez (Corona High School): With a Vanderbilt commitment, Hernandez has dazzled scouts with his power pitching arsenal and poise on the mound.
- Ethin Bingaman: Well-known for his versatility, Bingaman represents the exciting multi-talented players coming out of Southern California.
These high school stars are part of a larger story—one that features local talents excelling at multiple levels in organized baseball.
- Mikey Romero (Menifee): A Boston Red Sox 2022 first-round pick, Romero is making a name for himself with the Double-A Portland Sea Dogs.
- Woody Hadeen (Temecula): Drafted by the Detroit Tigers in 2024, Hadeen shines with his speed and fielding versatility for the High-A West Michigan Whitecaps.
- Christopher Paciolla (Temecula Valley High): Selected in the third round by the Chicago Cubs in 2022, Paciolla continues to climb the ranks within the organization.
- Cole Urman (Temecula Valley High): Baltimore’s 16th-round pick in 2023 is steadily working through their catching pipeline.
- Zach Arnold (Great Oak High): Playing for the Philly Phillies’ High-A Jersey Shore BlueClaws, Arnold strengthens Temecula’s proud baseball contribution.
Southern California’s depth of talent isn’t limited to players in development—there are also moments to celebrate the culmination of years of effort.
Stepping onto Guaranteed Rate Field on June 29, Carson Seymour lived the dream of every aspiring ballplayer. The Great Oak High alum pitched a scoreless inning for the San Francisco Giants, showcasing a mid-90s fastball and a calm demeanor under pressure. His evolution—from Temecula Little League to Kansas State standout to MLB-ready pitcher—is proof of Southern California’s lasting impact on the game.
Temecula’s Carson Seymour made his Major League Baseball debut for the San Francisco Giants during a road trip to Chicago this past weekend. Valley News/Courtesy photo
“It felt good,” Seymour said. “It’s the same game, just a bigger stadium and it’s on TV. I just tried not to overthink it too much.”
Athletes like Tyler Wade (Padres, 2025 Opening Day roster) epitomize consistency, longevity, and versatility in the Major Leagues. Wade’s Murrieta roots and his ability to adapt have made him a valuable component for any team. Likewise, Temecula Valley’s Reed Johnson continues to inspire with his remarkable MLB career and commitment to excellence.
Another local player, taken in the 2023 MLB Draft by the Padres, Adler Cecil’s 2025 season may look different due to being on the full-season injured list, but his influence and determination remain constants. A graduate of Temecula Valley High, Cecil embodies resilience and the will to support team progress even in adversity.
Tyler Wade made the Padres, 2025 Opening Day roster. Valley News/Courtesy photo
This year’s MLB Draft showcases the extraordinary range of talent across the nation, but it’s also a celebration of family legacies in baseball. LSU left-hander Kade Anderson headlines the list of top prospects, but one of the most compelling storylines belongs to Stillwater shortstop Ethan Holliday. Ethan is not only a rising star in his own right but also the younger brother of current Orioles standout Jackson Holliday and son of MLB great Matt Holliday. His journey exemplifies how baseball greatness often runs in the family, a theme echoed throughout the sport.
For players from Southern California—and especially Gavin Fien, who draws inspiration from his brother Dylan’s professional journey—the draft is a testament to enduring work ethic, unwavering support, and generational passion for the game. These sibling and family connections add depth, motivation, and excitement to an already electric draft night.
2024 Great Oak High School graduate Dylan Fien is the older brother of Gavin. Valley News/Phrake Photography
Major League Baseball has a proud tradition of brother duos and family ties, and the 2025 class adds to this rich tapestry. Here are some of the notable MLB brother pairs:
- Bo Naylor and Josh Naylor
- Edwin Diaz and Alexis Diaz
- Nick Maton and Phil Maton
- Julio Urias and Luis Urias
- William Contreras and Willson Contreras
- Taylor Rogers and Tyler Rogers
- Aaron Nola and Austin Nola
- Yuli Gurriel and Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
The pipeline of talent isn’t just about skill—it’s about the bonds that inspire new generations to chase the big-league dream.
Temecula’s Gavin Fien had a very successful youth career with USA Baseball. Valley News/Courtesy photo
The 2025 MLB Draft goes beyond just names and statistics. It represents a culmination of dreams, years of practice, and the unwavering support of families and communities. With stars like Gavin Fien and his brother Dylan paving the way, Southern California’s baseball legacy grows brighter.
The 2025 MLB Draft begins today, Sunday, July 13, at 6 p.m. ET. It will be held at the Coca-Cola Roxy in The Battery Atlanta and broadcast live on ESPN and MLB Network.
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JP Raineri