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RANKINGS
Tomball Sr. IF/RHP CJ Sampson (Texas A&M signee)
BETWEEN THE LINES: Tomball Phenom Sampson Owns His Legacy and Acclaim
The Cougars themselves have become a force to be reckoned with. Tomball went 34-7-1 in 2025, peaking with a trip to Dell Diamond for the program’s second consecutive UIL State Final appearance. That said, the quest for successive championships ended in a narrow 5-4 loss to Kingwood—a heartbreak that only seemed to reinforce Sampson’s competitive edge.
“Obviously we didn’t achieve what we thought was the expectation – which is to win another championship,” Sampson said. “But even after losing a few guys over the offseason, this team is very junior-heavy and experienced, which gives us a lot of confidence. I’m just excited to see what they can do.”
The stars of 2025-26 Tomball BaseballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
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Sampson’s impact extends beyond statistics. Having been coached and trained from a young age by his father, former Houston Astros pitcher Chris Sampson, he has developed a baseball IQ and poise rare for his age.
“He’s been a tremendous influence on me, both on and off the field,” Sampson said. “The most important thing has been the knowledge he’s shared—especially how to compose myself and the kind of character that works best with teammates, coaches, and scouts.”
Leadership is another hallmark of Sampson’s game. With a roster featuring a mix of juniors and underclassmen, he has fully embraced his position as a mentor.
“We were freshmen on varsity, so there’s plenty of familiarity regarding the culture here at Tomball High School. From there, it’s just about being able to step up in that leadership role for them and teach them the way. I’ve been there, done that, so it’s at this point where I can really get rolling and pass it on,” he said.
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Even with the spotlight on him as a high-profile recruit, Sampson remains grounded.
“Ever since I was young I’ve been trained to keep the outside distractions where they are and just focus between the lines,” he said. “People are going to have their opinions, so you just have to stay in your lane and within yourself. Especially with this being my senior year, doubters are going to question our ability to reach State again, and we’re going to prove them wrong.”
From Tomball to Texas A&M, and now on the cusp of another prospective run toward Round Rock, Sampson’s journey stands as a masterclass in where aptitude meets discipline.
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2022-23 Pearland High School Baseball
INSIDE PITCH: VYPE Baseball Rankings, No. 1 Pearland Oilers
Pearland enjoyed another stellar season in 2022 under District Coach of the Year winner David Rogers (4th year-92 career wins), finishing first overall in District 23-6A en route to a deep playoff run in which they reached the Regional Semifinals.
This year should be no different, considering this year’s roster will feature many of the same starters. Returning senior stars include reigning District MVP and lefty Caden Ferraro (Texas A&M-signee) and Newcomer of the Year Braeden Morse at third base.
First-teamers LF Brett Smajstrla (SHSU) and first-baseman Justin Ogle are back in the dugout along with second-teamer Anthony Avalos (Houston) at shortstop.
The core hopes to compete for the school’s first State Title since 1980.
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Caden Ferraro
