CATS AT THE NEXT LEVEL

DL HALL

Dayton Layne “DL” Hall is one of the premier baseball alumni to come out of Valdosta High School. A lifelong Valdosta native with electric talent from an early age, Hall developed into one of the top left-handed pitching prospects in the country during his high school career. His combination of velocity, competitiveness, and mound presence made him a standout across the state of Georgia and ultimately vaulted him onto the national stage.

In 2017, Hall made program history when he was selected by the Baltimore Orioles with the 21st overall pick in the first round of the MLB Draft—the first Valdosta High player ever taken in the opening round. He signed with the Orioles and immediately became one of the organization’s most highly regarded young arms, earning multiple top-100 prospect recognitions from national scouting outlets throughout his time in the minor leagues.

Hall made his long-awaited Major League debut on August 13, 2022, showcasing the same overpowering stuff that defined his rise through the Orioles’ system. After spending two seasons with Baltimore, he joined the Milwaukee Brewers in 2024, where he continues to provide impact as a dynamic left-handed pitcher capable of missing bats at the highest level.

Known for his elite fastball, sharp breaking ball, and fiery competitiveness, DL Hall represents the standard of excellence for Valdosta High School Baseball. His journey from local standout to first-round pick to Major Leaguer stands as an inspiration to every Wildcat who dreams of playing at the next level.

COLBY THOMAS

Colby Thomas, a standout outfielder from Valdosta, Georgia, has quickly established himself as one of the most dynamic young talents in professional baseball. A graduate of Valdosta High School, Thomas continued his career at Mercer University, where he became one of the most feared hitters in the Southern Conference. His breakout 2022 season included a .325 average, 17 home runs, and 45 RBIs in just 42 games, earning him First-Team All-SoCon honors and national recognition as a top collegiate outfielder.

Thomas was selected by the Oakland Athletics in the 3rd round of the 2022 MLB Draft, launching his professional career. Known for his explosive bat speed, athleticism, and aggressive style of play, he has progressed steadily through the minor league system. Thomas has showcased his tools at every level—plus power, elite running ability, and strong defensive instincts in the outfield—projecting as a future impact player at the major-league level.

Through it all, Colby continues to represent Valdosta with pride. His journey from local standout to professional prospect serves as an inspiration to the next generation of Wildcats, demonstrating the work ethic, perseverance, and competitive fire that define the Valdosta baseball tradition.

SETH SHUMAN

Seth Shuman, a Valdosta native and former multi-sport standout at Valdosta High School, has built an impressive career as one of the most polished and competitive pitchers to come through the Wildcats’ program. After graduating from Valdosta, Shuman attended Georgia Southern University to play football and baseball. Shuman developed into one of the top arms in the Sun Belt Conference earning Freshman All-American honors and multiple all-conference selections during his collegiate career.

Shuman’s success at Georgia Southern led to his selection in the 2019 MLB Draft, where he began his professional career as a right-handed starting pitcher. Shuman has consistently posted strong numbers across multiple levels.

A true example of discipline and work ethic, Shuman’s path from Valdosta High School to professional baseball reflects the standards and tradition of the Wildcats’ program. His dedication—both on the mound and in preparation—continues to inspire the young players who follow in his footsteps, proving that commitment, character, and consistency can pave the way from South Georgia to the professional ranks.