I'll echo what most others have said - it won't hurt his recruiting as long as he has the tools. I'll also add one piece of advice for him that I've told numerous people before - "Grow where you're planted".
Meaning whatever role he's given, be the very best at that role instead of griping about how he should be given a different role. If he's relegated to pinch runner, and gets picked off 5 times in 5 appearances, guess who isn't going to be given a more high profile role?
On the other hand, if he steps up on JV, becomes a team leader and contributes to the team, he shows that he's ready for Varsity.
Thrive in the role/position you're given, regardless of the role/position you think you deserve, and good things will come.