Went through this with softball a few years back -
Expect many less college coaches - like none - at 16U and below tourneys this summer as the focus shifts from who is in the stands to what is happening on the field.
Expect to attend more camps, both college-specific and third party (Headfirst, Showball), as those become the only vector for direct interaction.
Expect to get “Happy August 1st” calls and emails from the schools that really want you.
With this in mind, decide for yourself if a 2026 who is 16 months away from first contact needs to be traveling around the country to play, or if his parents need to be paying for that, or if perhaps the money might be better spent on a gym membership, skill-specific training, or attending camps at various colleges.
Any player with a D1 level tool - esp a high D1 level tool - is highly likely to be found and given an opportunity to showcase their talent, no matter what level they start at.