In this episode of Cold Weather Bats, we’re diving straight into why the Player’s Draft is officially returning — what it is, why it matters, how players, coaches, families, and even local businesses can get involved, and what this year’s version is going to look like. If you’re wondering how the whole thing works or where you can plug in, this episode lays it all out.

From there, we roll into the next wave of our Top 100 rankings, counting down No. 75 through 66 and breaking down what makes each of these dudes legit standouts as we inch closer to the top of the list.

We wrap things up with a look at the holiday season and share some gift ideas from companies we’re working with — Pison, JustBats, and Smackin’ Sunflower Seeds — perfect picks for baseball players, coaches, or anyone who basically lives at the field.

If you’re a player, a parent, a coach, or a business looking to plug into something fun and growing, this is a great place to start. Let’s get into it.

In this episode of Cold Weather Bats, we start with the next five names in the CWB Top 100 countdown, highlighting players ranked #85 through #81. It’s another impressive group featuring talent from across the state, including several players poised for breakout seasons this spring.

Then, we turn our attention to one of the biggest developments in the Michigan baseball community. Jake Hornbacher and Andrew Meier, who have long been key figures in the state’s tournament scene, join the show to discuss their transition from USSSA to Perfect Game. They share what led to the move, what it means for Michigan’s youth baseball landscape, and how Perfect Game’s model and technology will shape tournaments in 2026 and beyond.

In this episode, we cover:

• The next five players in the CWB Top 100 (#85–81)
• What to expect as Michigan enters the Perfect Game era
• How DiamondCast, player profiles, and new tournament technology will change the experience for families and coaches
• The outlook for Perfect Game’s expansion across the Midwest

This episode combines insight on Michigan’s top high school talent with an inside look at how the state’s youth baseball scene is evolving.

Cold Weather Bats continues to bring you the stories, people, and programs that make Michigan baseball unique.

In this episode of Cold Weather Bats, we sit down with Broder Katke from Brother Rice High School to talk about his recent commitment to Vanderbilt University. Broder opens up about his recruiting journey, the role his family played throughout the process, and what it means to join one of the top programs in college baseball.

We also continue our Top 100 countdown, breaking down #90–86, and talk with Michael on his experience using Pison and how it can be an asset players and families everywhere.

Plus, don’t miss out on our JustBats giveaway — head over to our Instagram (@ColdWeatherBats) for all the details!

Make sure to follow us everywhere for more episodes, rankings, and stories from around Michigan baseball.

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