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It’s uncommon for a high school student-athlete in New Mexico to make a verbal commitment to a college team as a junior -- especially when that athlete comes from a small 3A school and the commitment is to a Division I program.

And when that athlete is part of a no-cut team -- where no one tries out, no one is hand-selected, and anyone who shows up and works hard gets to play? Practically unheard of.

But Sandia Prep junior Logan Lemons ’27 is defying the odds in his pursuit of playing professional baseball.

Lemons recently announced his verbal commitment to play baseball at the University of New Mexico. The achievement feels especially meaningful because, as he explains, athletes from smaller schools often get overlooked.

“For me being a 3A athlete, it means that much more to me having this opportunity. I feel 3A sports get looked down on because of the size of the division and the assumption that it isn’t as competitive compared to bigger classifications,” he said.

Prep Baseball Coach Matt McCoy says that earning a Division 1 opportunity -- particularly as a junior -- speaks to Logan’s “exceptional talent, work ethic, and maturity.”

“Logan’s achievement reflects a level of ability that clearly rose above classification boundaries,” he adds.

To put this accomplishment in perspective: only about 8 percent of high school baseball players nationwide go on to play at the collegiate level, and just 2.4 percent compete in Division I.

Recent NCAA roster changes have made the path even steeper, with Division I team sizes reduced from 40 players to 34 -- eliminating roughly 18,000 roster spots across the country.

“We know that not everyone with talent and drive gets the recognition or opportunities they deserve, and that perspective makes this moment even more meaningful,” says Logan’s mom, Candice Lemons.

McCoy says UNM’s staff clearly saw what his Prep coaches witnessed daily: advanced skill, natural athleticism, and a baseball IQ beyond his age. “Logan is consistently one of the hardest workers on the field, and he combines that with leadership, humility, and the ability to perform in big moments,” he explains. “Coaching him as a sophomore, I saw a player who not only excelled statistically -- earning First Team All-District -- but also elevated the players around him.”

Candice credits Sandia Prep with helping guide both Logan and his older brother, Lucas ’23, toward success in the classroom and on the field.

“Sandia Prep’s holistic approach to education has been truly transformative for Logan,” she explains. “The school has encouraged him to explore new interests, discover his strengths, and develop confidence -- all of which have contributed to his growth as both a student and an athlete. The care and encouragement from his teachers and coaches have meant the world to our family, not only for Logan but also for Lucas.”

Also a baseball player, Lucas went on to play at Marian University in Fond du Lac, Wisc.

Candice says Logan’s Prep coaches “have consistently gone above and beyond, offering training support, mentorship, and an abundance of positive encouragement.” She adds, “Prep is filled with educators who genuinely care about their students, and we feel incredibly grateful for that.”

To see a student-athlete from Prep’s no-cut athletics program succeed at this level is gratifying, McCoy says. “It reinforces what we believe at Sandia Prep: when kids are given opportunity, support, and high expectations, great things can happen. Logan’s success shows that elite athletes can grow in inclusive environments.”

Logan’s passion for baseball started early.

“When I was about 3 years old, I think I told my mom that I wanted to be a pro player,” he says.

Plenty of kids dream of becoming pro athletes -- but Logan had the rare mix of drive, athleticism, and steady growth to back it up. He’s also been supported by his family -- dad Jason, mom Candice, and brother Lucas -- along with his club coaches, teammates, and his deep faith.

In addition to his Albuquerque Baseball Academy coaches, the Lemons family credits several Prep coaches -- Scott Brandt, Damien Segura, Paul Huitt, and Matt McCoy -- for their guidance, and longtime Prep Athletic Trainer Cathy Walters for keeping Logan fit and resilient.

“Her dedication to keeping our athletes healthy and strong has had a tremendous impact on both of our boys,” Candice said.

Another rare aspect of Logan’s journey: while many student-athletes specialize early, he’s continued to play both varsity baseball and basketball since eighth grade -- an opportunity that Prep makes possible.

That first season on the varsity baseball team was especially memorable, as he played middle infield alongside his brother Lucas, then a senior.

“It was the most fun I’ve had playing sports,” Logan shares.

Logan’s commitment to UNM will become official during the early signing period in November 2026. Until then, he plans to do what he’s always done -- stay focused on academics, basketball, and, of course, keeping his eye on the ball.