Max Kaplan is emerging as USC Upstate’s ace-in-waiting
In the 2026 season, USC Upstate left-hander Max Kaplan has flashed real frontline upside: he’s 2-0 with a 1.32 ERA and 16 strikeouts in 13.2 innings early in the year, then later delivered a complete game with five hits, one earned run, and a season-high seven strikeouts to earn Big South Starting Pitcher of the Week honors.[11][9] The big separator is his ability to work deep into games and miss bats without giving away free passes, plus the 6-foot-3 frame that suggests more projection. If a team wants a poised starter with strike-throwing feel and a competitive edge, he’s a very interesting fit.
