Zachary Carlson: Rising Baseball Star Shaping Northwestern’s Future

⚡ Quick Bio: Zachary Carlson

Zachary Carlson was born and raised in South Jordan, Utah, where he developed his love for baseball at a young age. From early tee-ball sessions to competitive travel leagues, his passion for the sport was clear. As he honed his athletic abilities, it was evident he had the potential to play at the collegiate level.

Carlson attended Juan Diego Catholic High School, where he emerged as one of the top high school baseball players in the state. His outstanding performances earned him recognition from scouts and coaches across the nation, leading to his commitment to play for Northwestern University, a prestigious Division I school.

Physical Attributes and Playing Style

Standing at 5 feet 11 inches and weighing between 175 and 190 pounds, Zachary Carlson combines speed, strength, and intelligence on the field. He bats and throws left-handed, giving him a competitive edge, especially in outfield matchups and base running.

Known for his quick first step and sharp instincts, Carlson excels as an outfielder. His ability to track fly balls with precision and throw with accuracy makes him a dependable defensive asset. Offensively, his consistent contact, high on-base percentage, and developing power have made him a promising batter in the college circuit.

High School Achievements and Rankings

During his high school career, Carlson demonstrated excellence both statistically and in leadership. In his senior year, he posted a remarkable .429 batting average with 4 home runs in 91 at-bats and achieved a 1.109 OPS, reflecting his power and plate discipline.

His performances earned him a Perfect Game grade of 8, ranking him the #1 outfielder in Utah and #9 overall player in the state for his graduating class. Coaches and analysts praised his athleticism, baseball IQ, and commitment to team success, setting the stage for a smooth transition to college baseball.

Transition to College Baseball at Northwestern

Joining the Northwestern Wildcats in 2024, Zachary Carlson wasted no time making an impression. He appeared in 15 games, starting 7 as a freshman. Despite limited playing time, he delivered a .276 batting average and a .364 on-base percentage, showing poise and maturity against top-tier competition.

Notable moments from his freshman season included recording his first collegiate hit and run against UIC, scoring and driving in key RBIs against Iowa and Penn State, and contributing in a pinch-hit role throughout Big Ten play. His growth trajectory during the season demonstrated his adaptability and readiness for bigger opportunities.

Summer League Play and Development

To stay sharp and continue developing, Carlson joined the Bend Elks in the West Coast League for summer 2025. In his early appearances, he maintained a .273 batting average, gaining valuable reps against elite collegiate talent.

Summer league baseball plays a pivotal role in player development, and Carlson’s performance suggests he’s committed to improving his mechanics, timing, and situational awareness. His consistent bat-to-ball skills and left-handed power potential make him a candidate for a more prominent role in upcoming seasons.

Strengths and On-Field Tools

Carlson is admired for his well-rounded skillset. He possesses a 6.96-second 60-yard dash, highlighting his speed on the bases and in the field. His 82 mph outfield arm adds value on defense, allowing him to make accurate throws to bases from deep territory.

As a left-handed hitter, he shows patience and a linear swing that consistently finds gaps. While his power is still developing, his ability to drive the ball to all fields makes him a threat in any lineup. Coaches have noted his strong work ethic, team-first mentality, and adaptability under pressure.

Future Outlook and Potential

With a successful freshman season and a productive summer under his belt, Zachary Carlson is positioned to be a key contributor for Northwestern in the coming years. His offensive upside, defensive reliability, and mental toughness make him a strong candidate for a starting role in future Big Ten matchups.

As he builds strength and gains experience, scouts will likely keep a close eye on his progress. While it’s too early to predict MLB draft prospects, Carlson has the foundation to grow into a legitimate professional-level talent if he continues on his current path.

Latest Developments and Team Contributions

As of July 2025, Zachary Carlson remains an active member of the Northwestern Wildcats roster, wearing jersey #27. He’s participating in offseason workouts and summer league competition, with no reports of injuries or major setbacks.

Northwestern’s coaching staff has commended his steady progress, and he’s expected to be a key piece in the team’s plans for the 2026 season. His continued exposure to competitive environments and focus on fundamentals indicate he is just getting started.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Zachary Carlson?

Zachary Carlson is a rising American college baseball player, currently an outfielder for Northwestern University. He is known for his left-handed bat, strong arm, and well-rounded athleticism.

What position does Zachary Carlson play?

He plays as an outfielder and occasionally pitches left-handed. He’s also known for his defensive accuracy and base running.

How did he perform in his freshman year?

In his freshman season (2025), Carlson hit .276 with a .364 OBP over 15 games, showing early signs of being a reliable offensive and defensive contributor.

Where did he play high school baseball?

He played at Juan Diego Catholic High School in South Jordan, Utah, where he ranked among the top players in the state.

Is Zachary Carlson eligible for the MLB Draft?

As of 2025, he has not declared for the draft. With continued development, he may draw attention from MLB scouts in future seasons

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