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2026 Iowa High School Team Preview: Independence

May 9, 2026
Tyler Cropley
State Director, Prep Baseball Iowa

The 2026 high school baseball season is quickly approaching and as usual, excitement is building throughout Iowa. Players and coaches have been working in preparation for the upcoming season and, as is the case each year, there are some very talented players and teams across Iowa.

Teams across the state have goals and aspirations to finish their seasons in Carroll or Cedar Rapids at the IHSAA 1A, 2A, 3A, and 4A State Tournaments, but there is plenty of work to be done before that becomes reality. We hope to shine a spotlight on all teams across the state as we preview individual teams across Iowa.

Please keep checking back throughout the season as we will be your one-stop shop for everything related to high school baseball across the state.

Each week we will be releasing our Diamond Notes, covering all the bases across the state of Iowa.

Independence Mustangs

High School: Independence
Head Coach: Joel Holst
Class: Class 3A
2025 Record (Finish): 23-17 (Substate Quarterfinal)

TOP RETURNING PLAYERS

+ Bryce Christian - NICC commit

+ Chris Meyer - Wartburg commit

+ Benton Enright

+ Kam Kremer

+ Jacob Mulford

+ Blayne Mergen

+ Ethan Schmitt

TOP UNDERCLASSMEN

+ Brecken Fuelling

+ Cole Shull

+ Preston Miller

ALUMNI IN COLLEGE

+ Andrew Rottinghaus - NICC

TEAM OUTLOOK

“We will field another strong team this summer. We will have quality depth on the mound. We return 3 players that hit over .400 last season, and 7 total starters that helped lead 3A in offense. Athletic lineup with ability to put pressure on teams.” – Joel Holst, head coach

Find more information on the 2026 Independence program below:


+ Visit the Prep Baseball Iowa 2026 HS Team Previews

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