High school teammates James Triantos and Bryce Eldridge reunite in MLB Futures Game

High school teammates James Triantos and Bryce Eldridge reunited on the same field for the first time in three years, this time on a grander stage — the MLB Futures Game.

This showcase event, featuring some of the brightest young stars in baseball, provided a unique backdrop for the two former high school stars to come together once again.

Triantos and Eldridge first made waves while playing for James Madison High School in Vienna, Va. Their chemistry on the field was evident in leading their team to a dominant season, earning a state championship win in 2021. Graduating two years apart, both players' strong senior year seasons led them to become high draft picks in the MLB Draft.

Triantos had the most impressive offensive season in James Madison High School baseball history. In his senior year, the right-hander achieved a phenomenal .712 batting average and a .800 on-base percentage (sixth in the nation) over 19 regular-season games.

Triantos recorded 37 hits, including 10 doubles, one triple and 11 home runs, driving in 27 runs. His slugging percentage of 1.577 (fourth in the nation) and an OPS of 2.377 underscored his dominance at the plate.

While also excelling on the mound with a 1.18 ERA, Triantos' exceptional offensive abilities caught the attention of the Chicago Cubs in the 2021 MLB Draft, leading to his selection as the 56th overall pick.

This year, Triantos is ranked as the No. 4 prospect in the Chicago Cubs farm system. So far with the Tennessee Smokies, Triantos has proven to be a formidable presence at the plate, displaying a versatile offensive repertoire.

He maintains a steady .301 batting average, complemented by 17 doubles, three triples and seven home runs, resulting in 36 RBI. On the basepaths, his exceptional speed is highlighted by 30 stolen bases.

In his senior year in 2023, Eldridge posted a remarkable .543 batting average and an impressive .700 on-base percentage. In just 19 games, he smashed nine home runs and drove in 29 RBI, showcasing his offensive power.

As a right-handed pitcher, he consistently hit over 95 mph, making him a formidable force on the mound. Despite playing as just a first baseman in the minor leagues, Eldridge's dual talents caught the eye of the San Francisco Giants, who selected him 16th overall in the 2023 MLB Draft.

Eldridge ranks as the No. 2 prospect in the San Francisco Giants farm system. Recently moving up to High-A, he has gotten off to a hot start with the Eugene Emeralds. In his 12 games played, Eldridge is slashing .325/.453/.928 with a home run and 10 RBI.

As Triantos and Eldridge continue to chase their big league dreams, their journey from high school teammates to Futures Game participants will undoubtedly be one to remember.