MidloDad and JMO,
JR does have a very good sophomore class, and I wouldn't be surprised if a bunch made Varsity. I coached a few in travel ball (for 6 years), and they have blossomed. Great kids & parents too!
As for Bird, Kaufmann (Cornell bound) will be the ace, no question. They have a few seniors, a couple juniors, and couple sophomores that can pitch but their unproven. Their challenge over the last couple years has been consistent offense. I fully expect new Coach Nicely to fix that quickly.
I still think the Manchester pitching combo of Morrison and Florence will be the toughest starting pitchers in the District. They also have a veteran catcher (Chris Ayer) behind the plate. I do not think any of the other top 4 schools mentioned here have a veteran returning catcher. For me, catcher is most important position on the field.