"Relentless Between the Lines: The Vocal Leader with a Motor Built for Domination"

Talon Hopkins

@THopkins007

IG: @tal0ndrake_

5’9, 150lbs, Class of 2027

East Ridge High School, KY

Talon is a fierce competitor with electric speed, a high IQ, and a “no plays off” mentality that makes him a nightmare for opponents and a dream for any coach. He ignites the game with hustle, constantly directing traffic on defense, studying pitchers’ tendencies, and outworking everyone on the diamond. What separates Talon is more than just quick feet or a sharp eye. it's his relentless motor and vocal leadership. He’s the glue that keeps a team locked in, the first to slide into a bag, back up a play, or bark out adjustments from the infield. Coaches can expect a scrappy warrior who brings intensity, precision, and heart every inning, every pitch, every single moment he’s on the field.

Though he didn’t play his freshman season, Talon used summer ball to make his presence felt and he delivered. Batting .265 with an on-base percentage of .414, he racked up 18 hits, 10 stolen bases, 22 runs, and 16 RBIs. But it’s not just about stats, his biggest improvement came defensively, where he’s turned into a versatile, heads-up asset who knows how to read hitters and anticipate the next play before it happens. This offseason, his focus is locked on raising his batting average and sharpening his all-around game, especially in a high school world where he knows others may have more experience. That gap fuels him. While they rest, Talon trains. His hunger comes from knowing he's behind in reps but ahead in work ethic. He’s already pinpointed what to study before every pitch: outfield depth, pitcher mechanics, and swing paths. and it’s that obsession with detail that gives him an edge. When facing adversity, he resets fast, short memory, no excuses, next play.

Talon is a true communicator on the diamond, guiding teammates and taking pride in keeping the defense organized. He wants to win. Period. And he’s willing to do whatever it takes, discipline, sacrifice, nonstop effort, to play at the next level. Whether it’s D2, NAIA, or JUCO, he sees himself thriving. Not through hype or hype videos but through real, gritty, behind-the-scenes work. His coach, CJ Brahman, drilled a powerful truth into him: “Motivation comes and goes, but discipline will take you wherever you want to go.” And Talon’s locked in on that path.

I assess that Talon brings the kind of gritty leadership and explosive energy that programs crave. His ability to control a game with communication, speed, and situational awareness makes him an impact player. He’s a table-setter on offense and a tone-setter on defens, exactly the kind of player who changes momentum and culture.

With continued focus on improving his bat and building physical strength, Talon has all the intangibles to rise in the recruiting ranks. Expect a player who leads from the front, competes without fear, and elevates the play of everyone around him. His ceiling is still rising, he’s just getting started. Stay tuned.