NATCHEZ — Adams County Christian School coach Matthew Freeman makes no qualms about saying he sees star potential in one rising sophomore.

Freeman said standout Devin Gray has all the physical attributes a coach could want.

“He can run, jump, and he’s got a great arm — he has all the tools.,” Freeman said “You couldn’t ask for a more well-rounded baseball player.”

Gray has hit the ground running in his first year at the varsity level, serving as the team’s leadoff hitter and a mainstay in the Rebels’ outfield.

Freeman said he would like to bat Gray second in the order, but due to the Rebels’ lack of a traditional leadoff hitter, Gray has been forced to the top of the lineup.

“It’s probably been the hardest thing for me to adjust to (leadoff),” Gray said. “I’m a first-pitch fastball kind of guy, but Coach Freeman got in there and got me to watch some pitches. He’s helped me a lot in adjusting to anything that’s thrown my way.”

While Gray isn’t a typical leadoff hitter, Freeman said Gray has been more than adequate in anchoring the top of the Rebels’ order.

“Devin is one of those guys who’s just happy to be in the starting lineup,” Freeman said. “He’s one of those kids that says, ‘Yes, sir, I’m glad I’m starting, and let’s go.’”

Perhaps Gray’s greatest strength comes on the base paths, where he has more than the go-ahead to swipe a bag at his behest.

“If they’re throwing hard and have a big slide step, I’ll just read (the pitch) out of their hand,” Gray said of his base-swiping prowess. “I’m still going get my big secondary (lead), but if I read it going low, I’ll go.”

Freeman said Gray is equally effective in the field where he utilizes his top-notch speed in chasing down fly balls in the gap. Gray’s best defensive attribute is his throwing arm, which the team is utilizing more now as they’ve slid him from center field to right field, Freeman said.

Gray demonstrated his strong throwing in a game last week against Columbia Academy when he threw out a number of base runners attempting to advance.

“I think (I changed positions) because of the angle in center field,” Gray said. “I feel a lot better out there (in right field). It’s just a mental thing.”

Freeman said perhaps the transition to right field has gone smoothly for Gray in part because of his work ethic and dedication to his team.

“He’s one of those kids that does everything 100 percent,” Freeman said. “He’s not going to miss practice. He works hard, and sports are a big part of his life … He’s going to be a star for us.”