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PBT Illinois Open: Takeaways

June 26, 2025
Scouting Staff

This past weekend, we continued our tournament circuit with the PBT Illinois Open in Rantoul, Illinois. This open event hosted nearly 70 teams from around the state and surrounding states, with the ages ranging from 15-17U. Continue reading below to see some of the standouts from the weekend. 

Cangelosi Sparks North Red - 2028 

OF Michael Ciccone (Saint Viator, 2028) 
An athletic, 5-foot-10, 160-pound frame, Ciccone showed well Sunday morning, collecting a triple and a single. Staying on the barrel, the right-hander came up with the bases loaded and unloaded them with a line drive to center field for a stand-up triple. Set up with an open set stance, with rhythm in the hands creating an uphill path. Ciccone moves well around the bases and was a big part of the Sparks' win over JBA Clutch. 

RHP/3B Andrew Stohl (St. Viator, 2028)
A lean 6-foot-1, 150-pound build with room to continue to fill out. Stohl had an impressive day on the mound and in the box Thursday night. On the mound, Stohl punched out nine batters in five and ⅔  innings pitched while allowing zero earned runs. He relied heavily on his fastball that sat in the low-to-mid 70s with arm-side run. Mixed in two different-shaped breaking balls, one at 64 mph with downward action and another with sweep at 67 mph. At the plate, Stohl works from a narrow, open stance with a small leg kick, creating rhythm. Direct to the ball with a flat bat path. Stohl was on the barrel all game, finishing 2-for-3 with two runs scored.

OF Rocco Lopez (Nazareth, 2028) 
A powerful 6-foot-1, 200-pound frame, Lopez was on the barrel all weekend long. The right-handed hitter drove two over the fence including a grand slam in his Friday afternoon game. Standing in tall, slightly open, with hands set high, Lopez creates a flat direct path to the ball with powerful hands that stay compact. Showing the power all-weekend, Lopez will be an interesting follow in the 2028 class. 

Cangelosi Sparks North White

C Jaythan Collazo (Oak Park-River Forest, 2028) 
A strong 5-foot-9, 170-pound frame. Has a feel for the barrel, driving a ball to the pull-side gap for an RBI double. Has a present two-strike approach, fighting off pitches until he gets one he can drive. With two, widens out with a no-stride approach for a difficult out, hitting for contact. Looks the part defensively, catch/throw traits behind the plate. 

2B/RF Gavin Mollenhauer (William Fremd, 2028)
Athletic 5-foot-8, 124-pound frame with room to add on strength. He dove one back up the middle for a two-strike RBI single. Looks the part defensively as well, an aggressive defender in right, making a diving catch in the first inning.

INF Hunter Thomas (Lake Park, 2028) 
An athletic 5-foot-8, 140-pound frame with a simple approach at the plate. In his first showing would add to his 2-for-2 day with a two-strike RBI single. Later on in the weekend, drove one to left-center for a double to drive in three. Soft hands with range in the infield. 

1B/OF Jack Trybus (Glenbard West, 2028)
Stands in at the plate at a wiry 6-foot-1, 170-pound frame with a short, compact swing that was hitting the ball hard all weekend. Trybus’ approach is about as simple as it gets, with a slight toe tap trigger and a quiet load. The rising-sophomore does a great job of keeping his weight back on the pitch and attacks the pitch with a level, direct-to-ball swing that produced strong results at the plate, including a 2-for-3 day with a double, home run, and three runs batted in on his first game on Saturday.

Canes Central Illinois 15u Fisher

SS Max Nestrud (Morton, 2028) 
An athletic 5-foot-10, 150-pound frame. Showed well at the plate today, driving one to his pull side for a double. Tallied three hits on the day. Had another two-hit game later on in the weekend with a double and a single.

RHP Krue Honea (Metamora, 2028) 
An athletic 5-foot-9, 145-pound right-hander came in relief today and showed well. Striking out four batters in two innings. Working with a two-pitch mix, the fastball was sitting 80-82 mph, and paired nicely with the curveball at 67-70 mph. 

1B Zakhary Kleist (Metamora, 2028)
Kleist would emerge as a physical left-handed bat from this past weekend with a confident presence in the box and a direct, slightly uphill bat path. With present strength throughout his frame & some athleticism, Kleist is a name to follow in Illinois’ 2028 class as he develops physically and in his overall game.

Evansville Leathernecks 15U McDonald

SS Brody Redman (Richland County, 2028)
Possessing a lean, athletic 5-foot-10, 170-pound frame, Redman had a strong day at the plate for the Leathernecks in Sunday’s bracket play game. The left-handed hitter possessed a simple setup, showing strong hands that flowed into a flat path, creating length through the zone. Redman showed some easy pull-side strength at the plate, sending a hard hit ball down the right field line for a double.

JBA Clutch 

LHP Dylan Langhoff (Marshfield, 2028) 
A filled-in 5-foot-11, 175-pound frame, Langhoff had a strong outing for JBA Clutch Sunday morning, tossing three and ⅔ innings, allowing one earned run on four hits while striking out six. Working with a two-pitch mix, the lefty was filling up the zone, attacking hitters from a long, loose leg kick, followed by a fluid arm out of the ¾ slot. The fastball was sitting 71-74 mph with a slight ride, and the curveball was 59 mph with 11-6 shape. Langhoff also got it done with the bat, going 3-for-4 with three singles and an RBI. 

RHP/CF Cash Olsen (Tomahawk, 2028)
An athletic 5-foot-9, 155-pound frame with room to continue to develop and add strength. Had an impressive outing on the mound, filling up the zone across a two-inning outing. The fastball was sitting 78-81 mph, T82, mixed in a curveball sitting 67-70 mph. Looked the part at the plate as well, doubled earlier, with easy strength. Would also send one over the wall to his pull-side earlier this weekend as well. Aggressive, confident defender in the outfield as well, with range and an arm that will play. 

INF Will Harris (Mosinee, 2028) 
An athletic 5-foot-9, 140-pound frame with room to add strength. Harris was swinging a hot bat this weekend. Saturday morning, he started 2-for-2 with two singles and an RBI on the day. Looked the part defensively as well with range and confidence at second. 

Puma Academy Gold 15U

C Jaxan Staszak (St. Francis, 2028)
Standing in as a 5-foot-8, 130-pound frame, Staszak displayed a lot of intriguing looks behind the plate. The rising sophomore displayed athleticism behind the plate, staying agile and moving with ease to block balls in the dirt, as well as being a confident receiver with a strong wrist. At the plate, Staszak has a tall setup with a smooth swing and hits out of the cleanup spot, finding the barrel twice in a game on Saturday. An interesting follow behind the plate for the 2028 class.

Rhino CI 15 U Miller

CF Leyton Chopra (Glenwood, 2028)
An athletic 5-foot-10, 130-pound frame. Showed well this weekend at the plate. Using a whole field approach, driving one to the opposite field for a single, 2-for-2 today with two RBIs. Previously attacking on a 3-0 pitch for a single up the middle. The center fielder shows upside with his hustle and discipline on the diamond. Looks the part defensively as well in center.

GRB STIKS Teal

C Lee Phillippi (Catholic Memorial, 2028)
Strong 5-foot-10, 165-pound frame, 2-for-2 today with a single earlier today. Barreled one to his pull side off the wall for an RBI double. Showed well behind the plate as well with quality catch/throw.

SS Jax Lindauer (Arrowhead, 2028)
A compact, athletic 5-foot-7, 145-pound frame finished the day Thursday going 3-for-5 with a double and two RBIs. Slightly open, upright set up in the box with a toe-tap trigger into a stride. Flat bat path with a line drive approach to all fields.

2B Jackson Suttle (Brookfield East, 2028)
Athletic 5-foot-9, 147-pound frame with room to add strength. The right-handed hitter went 2-for-2 at the plate on Sunday with a double while driving in a run. Compact swing with quality bat-to-ball abilities, table-setter type bat. Showed smooth actions up-the-middle.

Top Tier Navy

CF Bryce Draeger (Fenwick, 2028) 
A strong 5-foot-6, 140-pound frame with room to continue to develop and add strength. Showed well Thursday morning, going 2-3 on the day, driving one back up the middle for his second hit of the day. The leadoff hitter looks the part defensively as well, with aggressive actions and sound footwork. 

US Nationals Midwest Scout Blue

OF William Heid (Fox, 2028)
Heid would be a prominent offensive catalyst & top-of-the-order presence for the eventual 15U tournament champions. A hitterish presence in the box, with an above-average feel for the barrel and a simple approach, Heid would finish the weekend 6-for-14, with a double, four RBIs, seven runs scored, and three walks. A projectable 6-foot, 165-pound frame, Heid’s baseball acumen will allow his toolset to play up as he continues to get stronger. 

SS Grant Dinges (Rockwood Summit, 2028) 
Standing as a 5-foo-7, 155-pound athletic build in the infield. Showed well on Thursday afternoon at the plate. Quick hands, whole field approach at the plate. The shortstop had multiple hits, including driving one to the opposite field gap for a double. 

OF Keagan Richardson (De Smet Jesuit, 2028) 
Athletic 6-foot-2, 180-pound frame with range in the outfield. Ability to continue to add strength. Swings with intent at the plate with easy power. Had a single to his pull side for an RBI, showing a good two-strike approach at the plate. 

INF Sage Lelm (Morton, 2028) 
One of our staff’s consensus favorites of the weekend, Lelm presents a strong 5-foot-10, 195-pound frame with improved athleticism from when our staff saw him at the Illinois Preseason All-State event. Showed well throughout the weekend with an advanced feel for the barrel courtesy of an aggressive right-handed swing, while also showing the ability to hit the ball hard to all parts of the field. Finished the tournament 7-for-17 with a double, a triple, two home runs, 13 RBIs, and seven runs scored. Defensively, showed athletic actions at the hot corner with above-average arm strength and lateral agility. Name to know in Illinois’ 2028 class.

C CJ Nichols (O’Fallon, 2028)
Nichols immediately stands out for his competitive field presence, which shows well defensively, at the plate, and on the basepaths. The backstop has evident baseball acumen with leadership qualities and some grittiness to his defensive profile. At the plate, the right-handed bat was a QAB machine, acting as a consistent selfless at-bat for the eventual 15U tournament champion. A coach’s dream, Nichols should only become a more valuable asset as he grows into his developing frame. 

RHP Carson Rolf (Fox, 2028)
Rolf would showcase an athletic right-handed arm during his bracket-play relief appearance. Showed a two-pitch mix with a 77-79 mph fastball that would top out at 80 mph and was thrown alongside a 69-72 mph, with some sharp bite. Mechanically, showed repeatable actions on the mound while working with an athletic ¾  arm action. 5-foot-8, 145-pound with room for added strength.

LHP Brock Rust (Civic Memorial, 2028)
Rust showed an intriguing left-handed arm this past weekend with a solid two-pitch mix, which included an upper-70s fastball and low-70s changeup with arm-side fade. With developing command on the mound, Rust should only improve as he refines his present pitchability on the mound. 5-foot-11, 175-pound frame with some present strength & athleticism.

MIF Calvin Stanczyk (Chaminade, 2028)
A recent standout at the National Program Invitational in Georgia, Stanczyk would continue to showcase an athletic swing and competitive play style during this past weekend. At the plate, the right-handed bat showcased an advanced feel for the barrel with above-average bat speed and pull-side tendencies. Finished the tournament 6-for-12, with a double, a triple, five RBIs, and seven runs scored. Wiry 5-foot-10, 155-pound frame with room for added strength. Name to know in Missouri’s 2028 class. 

LHP/1B Chase Zimmerman (Waterloo, 2028) 
Zimmerman would show an intriguing two-way profile this past weekend. On the mound, the left-handed arm would get two starts, collecting 11 strikeouts across six and two-thirds innings of work. Showed a quality three-pitch mix which included an upper-70s fastball, low-70s changeup with diving action, and a developing upper-60s slider. At the plate, the left-handed bat looked the part with some present feel for the barrel. In setup, he presents an athletic base, utilizing a short stride to get into a positive launch with a slightly uphill bat path. Strong 6-foot-1, 179-pound frame.

Rhino 15u Miller

3B Weston Ensign (Fisher, 2028)
Standing at 6-foot-4, 225-pounds, Ensign is physically mature for his age. For his size, however, he moves very well at third and made some notably tough plays, charging on the ball at the hot corner. At the plate, there is a lot to dream on with his frame, and there is reason to believe there is power potential in the bat.

LHP Leyton Chopra (Glenwood, 2028)
An athletic 5-foot-10, 130-pound frame, there is still plenty of room for added strength. With an advanced feel for mechanics down the mound, the southpaw showed repeatability. Chopra displayed a feel for a fastball that sat in the low 70s (T75) as well as offering a low-60s sweeping curveball that kept batters off balance. He showed a feel for the pitch, no matter the count, as he was not afraid to throw it at any time. There is a lot to build on with Chopra.

Rhino 15u Harseim

RHP Jack Roberts (Waubonsie Valley, 2028)
A lean, athletic 6-foot, 175-pound frame with room for added strength. Roberts tossed a three-inning shutout, striking out five and giving up only one hit. Works from a low ¾ slot and pitches with conviction. Has a true three-pitch mix and flashed a fourth offering in warm-ups. His fastball sat 76-78 mph with arm-side run and generated multiple swings and misses. Went to a 65-66 mph curveball with 10-4 shape and depth, and a 71 mph changeup with dive as his secondaries. Flashed a tight slider in warm-ups.

LHP Dougie Bedinger (Coal City, 2028)
A lean and athletic 5-foot-11, 167-pound frame. Bedinger showed off an intriguing look on the mound. He offered two different fastballs that both stayed in the low-70s: a four-seam fastball and a two-seam that came with a more pronounced run. The real star of his outing, however, was his curveball that came with sweep and missed bats. He stays athletic down the mound with clean, repeatable mechanics and threw three scoreless innings, allowing a hit, and racked up five strikeouts on the day. He is a name to keep an eye on entering his sophomore year.

C Will DeWalt (Minooka, 2028)
Coming in at an athletic 6-foot, 175-pound frame with strength present throughout, DeWalt showed quality bat-to-ball skills during Sunday’s bracket play game. The right-handed hitter possessed a simple setup, showing strong hands that worked into a direct path, and displaying a gap-to-gap approach. DeWalt finished 2-for-2 at the plate in Sunday’s 11-4 win, with two RBIs, two runs scored, a stolen base, and a walk.

MIF AJ MacMillan (Yorkville, 2028)
Possessing a projectable 6-foot-1, 165-pound frame plenty of time to add additional strength, MacMillan was all over the barrel in Sunday’s bracket play game. The left-handed hitter operated out of a wider stance, showing direct hands with a gap-to-gap approach. MacMillan finished Sunday’s bracket play game 2-for-2 with a pull-side double down the right field line, an RBI, four runs scored, and two stolen bases.

Rhino 15u Blue

SS Vincent Grimm (Oswego East, 2028)
An athletic 5-foot-6, 145-pound frame with speed. On the weekend, he finished 4-for-8 with a home run. Left-handed hitter with a wide base and a small leg kick trigger. Direct to the ball with a slight uphill path. In the infield, he showed soft hands and the ability to go get the ball in the hole, showing off an impressive amount of range on the field with advanced defensive actions. 

Yard Goat Black

SS Nic Bralts (Champaign Central, 2028)
An athletic 6-foot-1, 165-pound frame. Showed well this weekend at the plate and in the field. Drove a ball to his opposite field gap for a double, his second extra-base hit of the morning. Also homered earlier in the weekend for a no-doubt shot over center. The shortstop shows easy power at the plate and plays with soft hands in the infield. 

RHP Jameson Ehler (St. Joseph-Ogden, 2028)
Ehler would get the start during the 15U championship and would throw two innings while not allowing a run and striking out four. Working from a lower 3/4s slot, the right-hand arm showed a solid two-pitch mix, which included an 78-80 mph fastball that garnered swing-and-miss, in addition to a 63-64 mph slider that Ehler threw with tight spin and consistent feel. Projectable 6-foot-3, 150-pound frame. 

C Gunnar Larner (Maroa-Forsyth, 2028)
Presenting a strong 5-foot-9, 185-pound frame, Larner showed an above-average feel for the barrel throughout the weekend, with an aggressive, loft-based approach and developing bat speed. Finished the tournament 7-for-15 with three doubles, a home run, six RBIs, four runs scored, and a walk. Defensively, the backstop showed above-average catch-and-throw along with developing hands, which have sported pop times as low as 1.96 seconds at a past event. Name to follow in Illinois’ 2028 class.

1B/RHP Colby Parrott (Maroa-Forsyth, 2028)
An athletic 6-foot-2, 160-pound frame with room to add strength. Impressive out of the bullpen, fastball sat 79-81 mph with life and paired it with an upper-60s curveball. Had a two hit day at the plate as well, Thursday afternoon with a double and a base hit up the middle for an RBI single.

OF/RHP Ryan Pipkins (Champaign Central, 2028)
The No. 9 player in Illinois’ 2028 class, Pipkins would show a quality left-handed bat this past weekend, in addition to a developing profile on the mound. At the plate, the rising sophomore showed above-average feel for the barrel, developing bat speed, and an effective all-fields approach. Finished the tournament 7-for-13 with two doubles, a triple, five RBIs, nine runs scored, and four walks. On the mound, the right-handed arm showed developing pitchability and command with a fastball up to 84 mph. Athletic 6-foot-1, 170-pound frame with room for added strength. 

16U

BigTime Baseball - Grey

C Josh Anzia (Cedar-Grove Belgium, 2027)
Presenting a strong 6-foot-3, 190-pound frame, Anzia showcased an intriguing profile this past weekend with a developing right-handed swing and above-average actions behind the plate. Presenting an athletic, balanced base, Anzia utilized a short stride to get into a positive launch with a relatively flat bat path and line-drive approach. Defensively, showed confident actions with developing hands. Name to follow as he refines his present toolset. 

INF Will Heinz (Grafton, 2027)
Heinz would show a strong right-handed bat throughout the weekend with an aggressive, loft-based approach and present pull-side tendencies. With a strong barrel, the rising junior found positive results when he utilized a simplified approach and opened up to the whole field, offering promise to his developing toolset. 5-foot-8, 159-pound frame with present strength and athleticism. 

SS/RHP Colton Multerer (West Bend East, 2027)
Presenting a 6-foot-3, 170-pound frame with room for added strength, Multerer showed well throughout the weekend, developing profiles as both a right-handed swinging middle infielder and right-handed arm. At the plate, the rising junior showcased a solid line-drive oriented swing with developing bat speed. An athletic defender at shortstop, Multerer was a consistent asset for his squad with above-average footwork and developing hands. On the mound, the West Bend East product worked from a 3/4s release with a low-80s fastball. During his Thursday outing, he collected eight strikeouts across four innings of work. 

RHP Aksel Pocernich (Slinger, 2027)
Pocernich would show a quality profile on the mound this past weekend with a solid two-pitch mix, including an 81-84 mph fastball with swing-and-miss traits along with a mid-60s breaking ball. Projectable 6-foot-3, 150-pound frame with long levers and plenty of room for added strength. Name to know in Wisconsin’s 2027 class. 

RHP Landon Wertz (West Bend West, 2027)
Wertz would show an intriguing profile on the mound the past weekend with a solid two-pitch mix that included a low-80s fastball and mid-70s curveball with hard, sharp break. A quick-tempo on the mound, Wertz showed athletic, repeatable actions while working from a 3/4s release. Athletic 5-foot-11, 155-pound frame with room for added strength. Name to follow in Wisconsin’s 2027 class. 

Cangelosi Sparks North-Red 2027

C Chase Estrada (New Trier, 2029)
Playing up two age groups, Estrada would have one of the more outstanding weekend performances, regardless of age. Finished the tournament 5-for-10 with a double, a home run, four RBIs, and three runs scored. An all-fields approach, Estrada has an evident maturity to his at-bats with a present feel for the barrel and developing bat speed. Defensively, the backstop showed quality actions with above-average catch-and-throw, solid defensive instincts, and developing hands. 6-foot, 165-pound frame with present strength and athleticism. Must know name in Illinois’ 2029 class.

OF Jordan Rosa (Maine South, 2027)
Rosa would show an intriguing profile this past weekend, highlighted by an athletic 5-foot-10, 160-pound frame and some feel for the barrel. A line-drive oriented right-handed bat, Rosa would finish the tournament 4-for-10 with three RBIs, four runs scored, and five walks. Also showed above-average foot speed that played up on the basepaths and in centerfield. 

Cangelosi Sparks North-White 2027

C Beckett Breseman (Prairie Ridge, 2027)
An advanced defensive backstop, Breseman would make his presence known throughout the weekend with above-average catch-and-throw, soft hands, evident flexibility, and a willingness to block. At the plate, the right-handed bat acted as a top-of-the-order presence for the eventual 16U tournament champions, showing a simple, line-drive oriented, right-handed bat. Athletic frame with room for added strength. Name to follow in Illinois’ 2027 class. 

3B Nate Burcham (Downers Grove North, 2027)
Presenting an athletic 6-foot-2, 185-pound frame with some present strength, Burcham showcased an aggressive right-handed swing this past weekend with developing feel for the barrel. Presenting a strong base in setup, Burcham utilizes a toe tap to get into a position of launch with a direct bat path. Also showed solid actions at the hot corner with confident hands and developing arm strength.

RHP Jack Fagan (Fenwick, 2027)
Fagan would get the Friday start for his Sparks squad and would end up throwing a six-inning complete game in which he collected nine strikeouts on a 65.9% strike rate. An intelligent right-handed arm, Fagan manipulated tempo throughout his outing while working with a low-80s fastball and 67-70 mph breaking ball. 6-foot, 180-pound frame.

1B Noah Hickey (Lyons Township, 2027)
Hickey would show a general feel for the barrel throughout the weekend with an innate ability to hit the ball hard to all fields, while his present strength would consistently play up throughout the weekend. Finished the tournament 6-for-14 with two doubles, five RBIs, seven runs scored, and three walks. 

OF Connor Krumrei (Oak Park-River Forest, 2027)
A recent standout at the Chicagoland Summer ID, Krumrei would continue to show a dynamic toolset highlighted by advanced strength and present athleticism. An intentful swinger with evident bat speed and the ability to hit the ball hard on the line, Krumrei has the makings of an advanced right-handed bat. A sub 7.0 runner, the outfielder also showed quality actions in left with developing range and arm strength. An imposing 6-foot, 207-pound frame with strength throughout, Krumrei is a must follow in Illinois’ 2027 class.

C Graham Stauber (Fremd, 2027)  
A wiry 6-foot-2, 164-pound frame, Stauber showed well during his two games on championship Sunday. The right-hander went 3-for-6 with a double and a pair of singles, adding to his opposite-field home run from Saturday. Standing tall with an open set stance, long leg lift drifting down the box, with quick, powerful hands creating a long uphill path. Shows feel for the barrel with the ability to go the other way. Behind the plate, he is an athletic defender with soft hands and a strong forearm. Clocked with a 2.19 pop in between innings. 

OF Zach Surowiec (Downers Grove North, 2027)
Surowiec would show an athletic left-handed bat throughout the weekend with present feel for the barrel and a direct bat path. Finished the tournament 6-for-14 with two doubles, a home run, nine RBIs, two runs scored, and three walks. Athletic 5-foot-9, 168-pound frame.

RHP/OF Ryland Contreras (Prospect, 2027)  
A built 5-foot-10, 172-pound frame, Contreras showed well both with the bat and on the mound. With the bat, the right-hander went 2-for-2 with a single and a double coming out of the bottom of the order. Standing in the back of the box with a slightly open wide stance, small toe tap load, and quick hands staying compact and working through the ball. He showed his athletic ability and game speed around the bases as well. Then, on the mound, Contreras got the start for the championship, tossing six and ⅔ innings while allowing one earned run. Working with a two-pitch mix, the fastball was sitting 73-74mph, with the curveball at 68 mph. Able to induce weak contact and let the defense work for him. 

3B Reid Gerjerts (Wheeling, 2027)  
Gerjerts showed well all weekend long with the bat for the eventual champions, Spark North White. Standing in as a long-limbed, wiry, 6-foot, 163-pound frame, Gerjerts would get hot Saturday, going 6-for-9 to finish out the weekend with a home run and three doubles. Showing feel for the barrel, the left-handed hitter was working with pull-side power, also with the ability to go the other way on a line. Setting up with a wide base, hands set high, it's a simple approach with a front knee coil for timing, and quick hands creating an uphill path. With the glove, Gerjerts shows clean, confident actions with the strong arm working on a line. As he continues to grow into his frame, the left-hander will be on to follow in the Illinois class of 2027. 

CF Matt Davis (Oak Park-River Forest, 2027)  
Davis showed well in the Championship game Sunday, driving in the first run of the game with a line drive RBI single. The wiry, long-limbed, 6-foot-2, 162-pound frame has a line drive approach, setting his hands up in a spot to create a flat and direct path to the ball, keeping the barrel through the zone. Moves well on the bases, showing game speed after clocking a 7.04 60 time in the winter. 

Canes Midwest Black

CF Derrick Ai (park tudor, IN, 2027)
5-foot-9, 140-pounds. Ai stood out with one of the most mature approaches at the plate in the 16U bracket. He consistently stayed within himself, drawing a walk and an HBP while refusing to chase outside the zone. Showed a disciplined eye and strong pitch recognition throughout the game. Collected a pair of loud hits early, a single to right and a double to left, both on well-struck barrels, showcasing his ability to drive the ball to all fields. The swing is smooth, controlled, and mechanically sound, hinting at future power as he continues to add strength. Defensively, Ai was a standout in center field. He got excellent reads off the bat, took efficient routes, and showed advanced instincts with multiple clean plays. A high-upside prospect with polish on both sides of the ball.

Central Illinois Revolution 

LHP Landon Ludwig (Colfax, 2028) 
An athletic, high-waisted, 6-foot-4, 175-pound frame with room to develop and add strength later on. A name to look out for in the future, currently playing up a level. Fastball 80-82 mph, T83 mph, mixed in a curveball sitting 67-70 mph. Strong outing on the mound from the lefty. 

Central Wisconsin Impact Elite 

C Brody Hall (DC Everest, 2027)
Hall would show an intriguing right-handed hitting catching profile with above-average actions behind the plate. Showed quality instincts with developing hands and flexibility. At the plate, showed a solid right-handed bat with a simple operation. Athletic 5-foot-9, 180-pound frame.

OF Dax Diethelm (Athens, 2027)
An athletic 6-foot, 160-pound frame, Diethelm would show an athletic LHH/CF profile this past weekend with developing feel for the barrel and opposite-field tendencies. Also showed the ability to backspin the baseball with authority. Finished the tournament 11-for-19 with three doubles, a triple, seven RBIs, eight runs scored, and one walk. Defensively, showed rangy actions with a solid first step in the outfield. Name to follow in Wisconsin’s 2027 class. 

C Rohen Robbins (Wausau West, 2027)
Robbins would show a quality RHH/C profile this past weekend thanks to a short swing, simple operation, and some present bat speed. Finished the tournament 6-for-13 with a double, an RBI, and three runs scored. Defensively, showed developing actions with some present instincts. 5-foot-8, 170-pound frame.

DH Ty Teske (Wausau West, 2027) 
Teske had a standout performance with the bat in the Impact Elite’s semi-final game, going 3-for-3 with two singles, a triple, and an RBI. One who has been seen as more of an arm, the 5-foot-9, 185-pound frame showed well with the bat as well. Setting up in the back of the box with an open stance and hands at the chest. He shows rhythm with them and gets them into a spot to create a flat direct line to the ball. 

SS Miles Waldvogel (Wausau West, 2027)
Waldvogel would show well on both sides of the ball this past weekend. At the plate, showed a quality, line-drive oriented right-handed swing with a gap-to-gap approach. Finished the tournament 7-for-18 with two doubles, three RBIs, and seven runs scored. Defensively, showed athletic actions on the dirt with solid all-around instincts, smooth footwork, confident hands, and a strong arm. Athletic 5-foot-10, 155-pound frame.

1B JD Weiland (Lincoln, 2027)
A name who stood out at the Wausau Preseason ID as a two-way prospect, Weiland presented a polished in-game look this past weekend. Presenting a strong 6-foot-4, 210-pound frame, the rising junior continued to show a strong left-handed swing with a direct bat path, some present bat speed, and feel to hit the ball hard on the line. Finished the weekend 7-for-16 with two doubles, nine RBIs, seven runs scored, and a walk. Also showed some present athleticism that played up on the dirt and at the plate. Name to follow in Wisconsin’s 2027 class. 

Chicago Elite Black

CF Nate Kaminski (Lincoln-Way East, 2027) 
A strong 5-foot-9, 158-pound frame with room to grow. Had a strong weekend at the plate for Chicago Elite Black. The left-handed hitter worked out of a wider setup with his weight starting on his back hip, utilizing quick hands that flowed into a slightly uphill path, looking to lift the ball. Kaminski had multiple three-hit games this weekend with ability to consistently barrel up baseballs. Looks the part defensively as well in center field, ability to read baseballs and range out to cover ground in the outfield.

Elite Baseball South 

OF Ayden Collom (Gardner-South Wilmington, 2027)
Collom showed a strong left-handed bat this past weekend. A loft-based approach at the plate, with developing feel for the barrel and some present bat speed. Strong 5-foot-11, 195-pound frame. Name to follow in Illinois’ 2027 class. 

MIF Logan Conroy (Morris, 2027) 
An athletic 5-foot-9, 162-pound frame, Conroy gave an intriguing look Saturday afternoon. With a whole-field approach, the righty collected an opposite field double and single back up the middle. The double came off a two-strike count where Conroy showed feel in the box, widening out and staying short to the ball, driving it down the right field line. Setting up in an already wide base, the righty works with a small leg lift, and hands that start then stay compact and quick to the ball. A contact-driven approach with a flat bat path finishing through the ball. Conroy would also show well on the defensive side, with confident actions up the middle, along with a two-pitch mix on the mound with the fastball sitting 79-82 mph and curveball sitting lower 60s in his one inning of work. 

C Brady Hespen (Manteno, 2027)
Hespen would show well on both sides of the ball this past weekend. Defensively showed quality instincts with developing hands and blocking. At the plate, the right-handed bat showed a line-drive approach with some present feel for the barrel, acting as a middle-of-the-order presence for his Elite Baseball squad. Finished the tournament 5-for-12 with two doubles, an RBI, and two runs scored. Compact frame with some present athleticism.

OF Mick Smith (Morris, 2027)
An athletic 6-foot-1, 180-pound frame with present strength. Showed a quality right-handed swing throughout the weekend with a strong barrel, a line-drive approach, and some present feel for the barrel. Finished the tournament 5-for-10 with two doubles, a home run, six RBIs, and five runs scored. Moves well around the bases and looks the part in center as well. 

Illinois Braves 

RHP Aiden Banister (Mahomet-Seymour, 2027)  
A lean 5-foot-11, 155-pound frame, Banister was a standout on the mound, tossing three ⅓ innings, allowing two runs on two hits and three walks, while striking out seven. Confident on the mound, Banister was working with a two-pitch mix, attacking hitters with a high tempo on the mound. The fastball was sitting 82-84 mph with a slight ride, and the curveball was sitting 68-73 mph with a slight break, able to get hitters off-balanced. Banister is athletic on the mound, pitching from fluid, replatable motion, followed by a whippy arm from the ¾ slot. The ball jumps out of his hand, able to get on hitters and make for uncomfortable swings. 

SS Ty Hunt (Centennial, 2027)
A strong and athletic, 6-foot, 173-pound frame, Hunt was on the barrel Saturday night, starting the game off with an inside-the-park home run, then following it up with a stand-up triple. Showing his athletic gate ability, having run a 7.16 60-yard dash in past events. The right-hander sets up tall with a slightly open base, the hands drop, but are quick and strong, creating an uphill path, working the ball on a line. At short, it’s clean athletic actions with a two-handed gather. 

Illinois Irishmen

SS Eli LaFlace (Riverton, 2027)
LaFlace would showcase an athletic up-the-middle profile this past weekend with smooth footwork, confident hands, and developing arm strength. At the plate, showed an aggressive right-handed swing with developing feel for the barrel and pull-side tendencies. Athletic 6-foot, 145-pound frame with room for added strength. 

On Deck Black - Payne  

OF Tyler Burns (Tri-County, 2026)  
Standing in as a lean, long-limbed 6-foot, 150-pound frame, Burns gave a good showing out of the leadoff spot for On Deck. In a trio of games, Burns was seen in the right-hander was on the barrel collecting four singles, with hard-hit outs as well. With a line drive approach, Burns works the whole field, with quick, compact hands that are quick and direct to the ball. Standing tall with a neutral base and medium leg kick, Burns is athletic out of the box, getting down the line in a hurry.  

SS Nolan Hodnett (William Henry Harrison, 2027)  
Hodnett caught eyes early with some flashy work with the glove and would quickly back it up with the bat. The high-waisted, wiry, 5-foot-10, 150-pound frame is a natural shortstop with some of the cleanest and fluid actions seen all weekend. Hodnett made a play on every ball hit in his direction. Multiple sliding backhanded plays with range to both sides. A loose strong arm working on a line, beating any runner. Even making a play on a ball bouncing off the third baseman, nabbing the runner. Simply one of the most confident and mature fielders of the weekend. With the bat, Hodnett added more value, collecting four hits with a double. Present rhythm in the box, standing tall, with quick hands that get long, creating an uphill path. As the bat continues to develop, Hodnett will be a name to follow in the Hoosier state.   

C Brock Ballesteros (William Henry Harrison, 2027)  
A filled-in, long-levered, 6-foot-2, 170-pound frame, Ballesteros showed well both with the bat and behind the plate Sunday afternoon. The right-hander would go 5-for-7 in two games with a home run, two doubles, and a single. Working with lots of pull-side power, Ballesteros sets up tall with an open stance, two tap load, with strong hands creating a flat path, and a one-handed finish. Behind the plate, Ballesteros is an athletic mover able to frame pitches with soft hands that meet the ball to its target, with a 2.22 pop in between innings. 

Rhino Baseball Speiser 

1B Easton Eggert (Providence Catholic, 2027)  
Eggert was all over the barrel this weekend, showing some of the most impressive natural power of the whole tournament. The powerful right-hander stands in as a 6-foot-2, 200-pound frame and collected two home runs, a double, and a triple on the weekend. Standing tall in the box, open stance, with a high leg kick to the belt, followed by an uphill path guided by strong, compact hands looking to lift the ball. The power comes easily as nothing is forced in his fluid, easy swing. 

C/INF Nathan Franks (Plainfield Central, 2027) 
A built 6-foot, 195-pound frame, Franks showed well in Rhino Speiser’s Sunday morning game. The right-handed bat went 2-for-3 with two doubles, showing his ability to stay on the barrel and work the pull side. Setting up Franks has a wide, slightly open base, getting into his lower-half, with compact hands that start high and work to create a flat path working through the ball. Able to turn on balls and drive them pull-side with authority. Franks did also make a relief appearance on the mound, tossing one inning, showing a two-pitch mix. The fastball was sitting 79-81 mph, T82 mph, and the slider was 72-73 mph. 

SS Alex Syska (Plainfield, 2027)
Standing at 5-foot-11, 172-pounds. Syska turned in one of the more complete performances of the day, going a perfect 3-for-3 against a competitive Canes Midwest squad. Showed the ability to spray the ball to all fields with a pair of well-placed singles to left-center and right-center, and flashed gap-to-gap power with a double to the wall. Offensively, he displayed an advanced approach at the plate with a blend of bat speed, strength, and situational awareness. Defensively, Syska looks natural at shortstop with smooth footwork, above-average range, and a strong, accurate arm that plays on the move. A high-motor, high-IQ player who checks a lot of boxes, with impact potential on both sides of the ball.

SBA Mid-America Scout 16U

RHP Sean Plessa (Rochester, 2027)
A high-wasted, long-limbed 6-foot-4, 170-pound frame displayed his ability to produce both at the plate and off the mound on Friday. Plessa tallied four hits, including two doubles to the right center gap, and drove in two runs over the team's two games. Got the start on the mound for the second game, Plessa went four innings with five runs allowed off seven hits and struck out five. The big right-handed pitcher attacks you early with a fastball 80-82 mph with 2,300 spin. Backing the fastball, an early and big 11/5 breaking curveball at 62-65 mph.

RHP Chase Beckham (Sacred Heart-Griffin, 2027)
A well-proportioned, athletic 5-foot-9, 165-pound frame, toed the rubber in both games of their Friday doubleheader. Beckham got the start on the mound in the first game, where he tossed two scoreless frames with three strikeouts and gave up two hits in a 9-0 victory. A few hours later, Beckham closed out the second game and hurled three innings with one run allowed off three hits and struck out two. The fastball was the main primary pitch to start off batters, sitting 79-81 mph. Backing up the fastball was the curveball. Beckham had the ability to throw the curveball in any count that landed for strikes and created swings and misses, sitting 71-72 mph. Beckham flashed a change at times with arm-side coming in at 74-76 mph.

SS Austin Rutter (Sacred Heart-Griffin, 2027)
Athletic 5-foot-9, 160-pound frame with room to grow. On Thursday, Rutter went 3-for-3 at the plate with a double while driving in two runs. The left-hander hitter has a compact swing with quality bat-to-ball abilities with a flat bat path and a whole field approach. Showed advanced feel up-the-middle with a strong arm. Hopped on the mound and sat 79-81 mph. 

C Mikey Groesch (Sacred Heart-Griffin, 2027)
Strong 6-foot-1, 205-pound frame. Groesch went 1-for-3 at the plate with a single to right field on Thursday. The multi-sport athlete showed a pure swing with pull-side power. The right-handed hitter shows a whole field approach. Showed a strong arm in-between innings with solid receiving abilities.

Top Tier South 16U Cameron

3B/RHP Jacob Howard (Lincoln-Way West, 2027)
Coming in at a well-proportioned 6-foot-1, 160-pound frame with room for added strength. Howard gave our staff an intriguing look on both sides of the ball in Saturday’s 17-9 pool play win. The right-handed hitter possessed a strong two-strike approach at the plate, working a ten-pitch at-bat to send a two-run double off the left field wall. Howard would also show some quality stuff on the mound in relief. He was able to keep hitters guessing with his three-pitch mix, finishing with three innings pitched, zero earned runs, one hit, and five strikeouts. His fastball sat 80-83 mph and was worked around the zone. He also utilized an 11/5 curveball at 62-65 mph and a changeup at 67-68 mph. A sophomore two-way prospect to keep an eye on.

White Sox Elite 16U Black

OF/1B Nolan Gagliano (Wheaton North, 2027)
A wiry 6-foot-3, 190-pound frame, Galiano would showcase a quality right-handed swing with some present feel for the barrel and developing bat speed. Finished the tournament 4-for-13 with a double, a home run, seven RBIs, two runs scored, and one walk. Name to follow in Illinois’ 2027 class. 

RHP Josh Manriquez (Wheaton Warrenville South, 2027)
Manriquez would collect the final three outs in the 16U quarterfinal and showed a solid low-80s fastball. Working from a high 3/4s release, Manriquez showed explosive, athletic movements on the mound with some present feel for the zone. 5-foot-8, 150-pound frame. 

C Jonah Raney (Wheaton Warrenville South, 2027)
Presenting a wiry 6-foot-5, 195-pound frame, Raney showed quality actions behind the plate with present defensive instincts and above-average catch-and-throw. At the plate, showed a solid right-handed bat with developing feel for the barrel and bat speed. Name to follow as he adds polish to his present toolset. Name to follow in Illinois’ 2027 class. 

OF Dion Lane (Evanston Township, 2027)
Lane would show an athletic RHH/CF profile this past weekend. Defensively, showed quality range, solid first step, and evident defensive instinct. At the plate, the right-handed bat showed an athletic swing with a line-drive approach and developing feel for the barrel. Athletic frame paired with present foot speed.

3B Cooper Langreder (Glenbard South, 2027)
Labeled as a name to follow after last summer, Langreder has seemingly added more athleticism to his already imposingly strong 6-foot-4, 200-pound frame. At the plate, the right-handed bat showed improved bat speed with present feel for the barrel and an aggressive, loft-based approach. Finished the tournament 4-for-10 with three doubles, two RBIs, five runs scored, and five walks. Defensively, showed athletic actions at the hot corner with developing defensive instincts. Must follow in Illinois’ 2027 class. 

1B Noah Munoz (Evergreen Park, 2027)
A strong right-handed bat, Munoz showed a present feel to hit throughout the weekend with present pull-side pop, a loft-based approach, strong on-plane swing, and developing swing decisions. Finished the tournament 6-for-15 with a double, three home runs, eight RBIs, and seven runs scored. Name to follow in Illinois’ 2027 class. 

INF Blake Snyder (Wheaton Warrenville South, 2027)
Snyder showed a quality left-handed hitting, up-the-middle profile the past weekend. At the plate, the rising junior showed a direct bat path with feel for the barrel and a quiet, hitterish presence. Defensively, showed athletic actions with developing footwork and hands. 5-foot-11, 165-pound frame with some present athleticism and strength.

Yard Goats Black

RHP Finn Miller (St. Joseph-Ogden, 2027)
A lean 6-foot-1, 160-pound frame, Miller looked strong on both sides of the ball. On the mound, Miller operates out of a loose, athletic delivery and mostly works with a two-pitch mix. He offers a low-80s fastball (T83) that comes with arm-side run. To pair with the fastball, Miller also offers a mid-60s curve that has a 12/6 shape and misses bats low in the zone. At the plate, Miller also connected with a three-run home run on the weekend. A name to follow going forward. 

C John Timmons (Champaign Central, 2027)
Strong 5-foot-11, 165-pound frame. Timmons showed well on Friday as he went 1-for-3 at the plate with an RBI single. The right-handed hitter has a compact swing with a gap-to-gap approach with power to all fields. Showed advanced actions behind the plate and a strong arm that he showed off in-between innings.

17U

Bam 17U Prime 

RHP Brooks McKeeman (Mt. Vernon, 2026)  
A lean, long-limbed, 6-foot-1, 180-pound frame, McKeeman gave an intriguing look during his start Saturday morning. The right-hander tossed four innings, allowing four earned runs, striking out six, and walking two. Working with command for a two-pitch mix, the fastball was sitting 76-77 mph with glove-side run, and the curveball was sitting 68-69 mph. Filling up the zone, able to freeze hitters, and get awkward swings off the curveball. 

Big Time Baseball - Grey

C/3B JJ Bergin (Port Washington, 2027)
Strong 5-foot-11, 180-pound frame. Bergin collected multiple barrels over the weekend. The right-handed hitter has a whippy, compact swing that has a gap-to-gap approach. Showed pull-side power with strong hands. Defensively, Bergin moved between third base and catcher. He held his own at both positions.

OF Peyton McKinney (Grafton, 2026)
Athletic 5-foot-11, 150-pound frame with room to add strength. McKinney consistently found ways to get on base during the weekend. The right-handed hitter has quality bat-to-ball abilities while consistently being on the barrel. Showed above-average speed on the base paths and in the outfield.

OF Zach Plier (Grafton, 2026)
Lean 6-foot-3, 175-pound frame with room to add strength. Plier was all over the barrel over the weekend. The right-handed hitter has a pull-side approach with a pure swing that is long through the zone. Sent a liner down the left-field line for an RBI double on Sunday.

Blue Demons 17U

SS/RHP Daniel Chopp (Oak Forest, 2026)
Chopp would show an intriguing profile this past weekend, highlighted by advanced, two-sport athletics that showed well at the plate, on the basepaths, on the dirt, and on the mound. At the plate, the right-handed bat showed a gritty, line drive-oriented approach, acting as a table setter out of the leadoff spot. Defensively, showed evident athleticism with range to both sides and fluid, bouncy footwork. Showed present foot speed that played well on the basepaths, creating consistent issues for opposing pitchers and offenses. On the mound, the right-handed arm would get the Sunday start and would showcase a solid two-pitch mix, which included a 79-82 mph fastball and 66-67 mph curveball. Collected five strikeouts through four and a third innings of work. Athletic 5-foot-10, 145-pound frame. A dynamic two-sport athlete for college coaches to follow. 

1B Jake Stevens (Manteno, 2026)
Presenting a strong 5-foot-11, 185-pound frame, Stevens would show a quality left-handed bat throughout the weekend with some present feel for the barrel and developing feel to elevate the baseball. A loft-based approach at the plate, Stevens showed an ability to hit the ball hard to all fields. Uncommitted name to follow. 

OF Kevin Sullivan (Oak Forest, 2026)
Sullivan would show a quality LHH/CF profile this past weekend with athleticism that played up on both sides of the ball. Defensively, showed above-average range and present instincts that consistently played up throughout the weekend. At the plate, showed a solid left-handed bat with a simple operation and line-drive approach. 5-foot-8, 135-pound frame with room for added strength.

3B Reuben Velasco III (Peotone, 2025)
Colorado-Colorado Springs Commit. Velasco showed an intriguing right-handed bat this past weekend with a loft-based approach, present feel for the barrel, and developing bat speed. Defensively, showed spiritually for the hit corner with some present lateral agility and above-average footwork and hands. 6-foot-4, 200-pound frame. 

Cangelosi Sparks North - Red 2026

SS Abraham Jose Caseres (Lyons Township, 2027)
An advanced defender at shortstop, Caseres showed present instincts, above-average range, soft hands, and fluid footwork. A native of Venezuela, Caseres was a consistent defensive asset, making difficult plays seem exceptionally easy. At the plate, the switch-hitter showed a rhythmic left-handed swing with an aggressive approach and some present feel for the barrel. Name to follow for college coaches. 

C Evan Mendiola (York, 2026)
A long-levered 6-foot-1, 188-pound frame, Mendiola would show above-average actions on both sides of the ball. At the plate, the right-handed bat showed developing feel for the barrel and bat speed in addition to a whole-field, line-drive oriented approach. Defensively, showed developing actions with some present instincts. Uncommitted name to follow. 

OF Connor Salvatori (Lyons Township, 2026)
Salvatori would emerge as a must-follow uncommitted left-handed bat, with present feel for the barrel and pull-side tendencies. Defensively, profiles as a corner outfielder with some present instincts and fringy foot speed. An athletic 6-foot-2, 165-pound frame, there is plenty of room for added strength. 

1B Alexander Zielinski (Wheaton North, 2026)
Presenting an athletic 6-foot-3, 190-pound frame, Zielinski would show an intriguing profile at the cold corner. A pure athlete with above-average baserunning instincts, Zielinski was also a defensive asset at the cold corner with above-average footwork. At the plate, had a quiet presence in the box with some present feel for the barrel and a whole field approach. Uncommitted name to follow in Illinois. 

Cangelosi Sparks North - White 2026

3B Lou Ratcliffe (Lyons Township, 2026)
Currently ranked No. 167 in the state’s junior class. Standing in at a broad-shouldered 5-foot-10, 185-pound frame with present strength throughout, Ratcliffe put together some loud swings throughout the weekend. The right-hander operated out of a simple setup, showing loose hands that flowed into a flatter path, working through the zone. Ratcliffe started off pool play by sending a grand slam to deep left field to finish 1-for-1 with four RBIs. He added another XBH later in the week, working the barrel inside to send a double through the left-center gap. An uncommitted junior bat to keep an eye on.

1B Bryce Tencza (Providence Catholic, 2026)
Physical, strong-bodied 6-foot-3, 273-pound frame. Tencza showed off some easy pull-side power in Saturday’s pool play game. The right-handed hitter possessed strong hands that worked into a flatter path, creating backspin. Tencza finished the day 1-for-3 with a deep pull-side solo home run to left field. Multi-sport athlete, football standout. 


RHP Sullivan Kazee (St. Rita, 2026)
Coming in at a long-levered 6-foot-1, 175-pound frame, Kazee started on the mound and had an impressive showing on both sides of the ball in Saturday’s 11-3 pool play win. The right-hander worked out of a controlled, tall/fall delivery, showing a whippy ¾ arm action. He showed some feel for spin with his fastball at 80-83 mph, topping 2430 rpm with his spin rate. He also utilized a cutter that showed life through the zone at 77-78 mph and a sharp 12/6 curveball that was 69-72 mph. Kazee also showed some pull-side power at the plate, sending a hard hit liner to deep left field for a two-run home run. An intriguing uncommitted two-way follow.

Central Illinois Jokers - Worthington

INF Boston Katz (Heyworth, 2026)
Katz would show an athletic, up-the-middle profile this past weekend. At the plate, the right-handed bat showed a line-drive approach paired with developing bat speed. Defensively, had athletic actions and could profile well as a collegiate second baseman with some present instincts and confident footwork. 5-foot-9, 165-pound frame

Forceout Baseball

C Carson Dachel (Oak Creek, 2026)
Strong 6-foot-2, 195-pound frame. Dachel had quite the game on Friday as he drove in four runs. The right-handed hitter has a compact swing with a gap-to-gap approach. Slight uphill bat path with strong hands. Had multiple barrels throughout the weekend including a ground-rule double to deep center on Friday.

Illinois Braves 

SS Tyler Cole (Paxton-Buckley-Loda, 2026) 
A high-waisted, wiry, 6-foot, 170-pound frame, Cole was a standout Saturday out of the leadoff spot for the Illinois Braves. Going 3-for-7 with a double and triple, driving in two. The right-handed hitter showed maturity at the plate with a gap-to-gap approach, working a triple down the right field line, along with taking a curveball to the same spot for a double. Setting up in the back of the box with a wide base, small leg lift, with hands that calm down at approach and shoot out, driving through the ball. Athletic out of the box, Cole shows game speed, along with clean, fluid actions at short to follow. 

Brayden Elam (Altamont, 2026)
Presenting a 6-foot-1, 170-pound frame, Elam would show an intriguing line-drive oriented, left-handed bat with some present feel for the barrel and developing bat speed. Uncommitted name to follow in Illinois. 

INF Derek Rivera (Colegio Angel David, 2026)
Rivera would immediately stand out to our staff thanks to a muscular, broad-shouldered 6-foot, 175-pound frame, and the intentionality he took with his pregame stretching & routine. An athletic defender, Rivera would provide looks both at shortstop and at third base, with the latter acting as his more comfortable position with quality footwork and developing hands. At the plate, the right-handed bat offered an aggressive approach, with developing feel for the barrel and present bat speed. Finished the tournament 5-for-10 with two doubles, four RBIs, four runs scored and three walks.

RHP Kayden Vance (Paxton-bBuckley-Loda, 2026) 
5-foot-11, 155-pounds. The right-hander tossed six efficient innings, striking out nine while allowing just one earned run. Showed excellent feel for sequencing and pitchability throughout the outing. Worked the fastball to all four quadrants, changing eye levels and effectively moving it in and out with late sink to induce weak contact and ground balls. His primary secondary was a sharp, over-the-top breaking ball with tight spin and depth, consistently missing barrels and keeping hitters off balance. Advanced pitchability, clean mechanics, and competitive mound presence - a high-floor arm with projection as he develops physically.

Illinois Hawks-Black

RHP Andrew Schmidt (Oswego East, 2026)
6-foot-2, 180-pound frame with room to add strength. Schmidt gave an intriguing look on Saturday. The right-hander operates from a low slot with a fastball that sits 85-87 mph while topping out at 88 mph. He mixed in a slider that sat 71-73 mph with a hard, late bite. Schmidt is an interesting uncommitted arm to keep an eye on throughout the rest of the summer.

Inevitable A’s 17U

SS/UTIL Jackson Ahrens (East Peoria, 2026)
Standing in at 6-foot, 170-pounds, Jackson Ahrens is an athletic uncommitted rising-senior in the 2026 that is a name to know. Ahrens went 4-for-10 with four walks, a double and a home run out of the leadoff spot this weekend. The rising-senior has a simple approach at the plate and a quality feel for the barrel, which was on full display throughout the tournament. A 6.7 runner with a 97.7 max EV at the recent Peoria ID, Ahrens has a combination of raw strength and speed that is both noteworthy and worth keeping an eye on going forward.

RHP Collin Burns (Morton, 2026)
Currently ranked No. 199 in the 2026 class, Burns stands in at 6-foot-2, 191-pounds with a delivery that oozes athleticism. Throwing out of the stretch exclusively, Burns has a quick delivery that works down the mound with loose moving parts throughout. His arm whips through out of a ¾ slot with a lively pitch mix that missed a lot of bats and kept him in control throughout the game.  He offered a fastball that sat in the 82-84 mph range, topping out at 85 and came with plenty of arm side run. He paired the fastball with a hard biting curveball with sharp 11/5 movement. He showed confidence in his pitches, unafraid to throw it anywhere in the zone. In his two innings of work on Saturday, he punched out five batters in two innings, giving up only two hits on the day.

RHP Tre Hoggard (Unity, 2026)
A three-sport athlete, three is plenty of athleticism in Hoggard’s 6-foot-2, 180-pound frame. Hoggard pitched well in his start on Friday, going six innings and allowing four hits, two walks, an earned run and racked up seven strikeouts. Hoggard attacked hitters with a fastball that sat in the 82-84 mph range (T85), and paired that mostly with a low-70s slider that kept hitters off balanced all game.

1B/RHP Cam Crawford (Morton, 2026)
Physical 6-foot-1, 220-pound frame. The right-handed hitter was all over the barrel on Thursday as he connected on three extra-base hits. Has a power swing that plays to all parts of the field. Connected on a solo home run as well as a two-run home run. In between the two at-bats, Crawford sent a line drive down the left-field line for an RBI double. 

Mequon Heat 

RHP Sean Contardi (Homestead, 2026)
A high-waisted, long-limbed, 6-foot, 150-pound frame, Contardi gave a good look early in his outing Saturday morning. The right-hander tossed five innings, striking out five, walking one, while throwing four innings of one-run ball. Working with a two-pitch mix, the fastball was sitting 70-73 mph, and the curveball was sitting 65-66 mph. Tossing from a clean ¾ slot, Contardi was attacking hitters, keeping them off balance and collecting whiffs.  

Naperville Renegades

RHP Alex Arens (Glenbard North, 2026)
Coming in at a long-levered 6-foot-3, 205-pound frame. Arens showed some quality stuff in Sunday’s championship game against a tough lineup, tossing a complete game with only one earned run allowed on five strikeouts. The right-hander showed some deception in his delivery, utilizing a whippy sidearm slot that gave hitters a hard time. He flashed a heavy fastball at 83-86 mph, that maintained velocity throughout his outing. He also showed a tight slider at 74-76 mph that was able to miss barrels. An uncommitted arm to follow in Illinois.

CF Michael Page (Naperville Central, 2026) 
6-foot-2, 170-pounds. Page impressed with a strong offensive showing and steady defensive presence. The left-handed hitting outfielder jumped on a pitch early in the day, launching a no-doubt home run over the left field wall to flash some present power. He followed that up with another barrel back up the middle, finishing the game 2-for-3 with authority in both swings. Defensively, Page moves well in the outfield, using his tall frame and long strides to cover ground with ease. There’s still physical development ahead, and as he continues to mature and add strength, the power potential and overall impact toolset should continue to rise. Intriguing upside in a long, athletic frame.

1B Liam Darre (Batavia, 2026)
Strong 6-foot, 193-pound frame. Darre was consistently on the barrel throughout the weekend. The right-handed hitter connected on a triple while driving in two runs Saturday night. On Sunday morning, Darre launched a three-run home run. The first baseman has a pure swing that is long through the zone with pull-side power. Strong hands with a whole field approach.

INF Aidan Kanazawa (Downers Grove South, 2026)
Athletic 6-foot-2, 160-pound frame with room to add strength. Kanazawa had quite the game Sunday morning as he went 2-for-4 while driving in five runs. The left-handed hitter has a compact swing that is direct to the ball with a pull-side approach. Showed off his pull-side power during his final plate appearance as he launched a grand slam over the right field fence. Earlier in the game, Kanazawa connected on a double to the right-center gap. Interesting uncommitted bat in the 2026 class.

Rantoul Rush

SS Nolan Franz (Mahomet-Seymour, 2026)
Franz would show an intriguing up-the-middle profile this past weekend. Defensively, showed confident defensive actions at shortstop with above-average footwork and developing hands. At the plate, showed some present barrel courtesy of a line-drive approach and developing bat speed. Finished the tournament 4-for-11 with two RBIs, three runs scored, and two walks. Athletic 5-foot-8, 130-pound frame with room for added strength.

RHP Zach Huchel (Hoopeston Area, 2026)
Huchel would show a developing profile on the mound this past weekend with a solid two pitch mix which included a low-80s fastball and mid-60s curveball. Presenting a 5-foot-10, 160-pound frame, Huchel has plenty of room for both physical development and overall polish of his toolset on the mound. 

RHP Heyden Romano (Monticello, 2026)
Romano would make multiple high leverage relief appearances throughout the weekend and would end with 12 strikeouts in nine and two third innings. Showed a solid three pitch mix that included a low-80s fastball, low-70s slider, and upper-60s curveball. Athletic 6-foot, 165-pound frame.

REV BASEBALL-BLAIS

C Keenan Donaldson (New Trier, 2026)
Possessing a high-waisted 6-foot, 185-pound frame with strength present throughout, Donaldson showed quality bat-to-ball skills throughout the weekend. The right-handed hitter worked out of a balanced setup, showing a simple lift/place stride, with loose hands into a flatter path that created quick bat speed. Donaldson consistently stayed on the barrel throughout the weekend, finishing 8-for-13 with multiple multi-hit games, and a pull-side home run in his first game of the tournament. An uncommitted junior name to know. 

SS/RHP Alex Han (Stevenson, 2026)
Standing in at an athletic 5-foot-9, 140-pound frame, Han showed quality actions on both sides of the ball throughout the weekend. The right-hander showed the ability to find the barrel, finishing with multiple multi-hit games. Han also gave our staff an intriguing look on the mound. The right-hander was an athletic mover on the mound, working in-line down the rubber, and showing off a loose ¾ arm action. His fastball was 82-84 mph and topped 85 mph in his first relief appearance. He also had a gradual 11/5 slider at 71-72 mph, and a fading changeup at 75-76 mph. An intriguing two-way prospect to follow. 

CIF Ryan Martin (Stevenson, 2026)
Martin would show a strong left-handed bat this past weekend with a present feel for the barrel. An intentful swinger, the rising senior showed a line drive approach and some present bat speed throughout the weekend. A strong frame, Martin moves well for his size with some present athleticism that consistently plays up both on the dirt and on the basepaths. Name to follow for college coaches. 

OF Charlie Quick (Lake Forest, 2026)
Presenting a physical 5-foot-11, 199-pound frame, Quick looked like a presence at the top-of-the-order. The rising senior showed a strong right-handed barrel to pair with above-average bat speed and an aggressive approach. Physical name to follow for college coaches. 

1B Noah Terrien (Glenbrook North, 2026)
Terrien would show an athletic profile at the cold corner this past weekend with above average defensive instincts that consistently played up throughout the weekend. At the plate, showed an athletic left-handed swing and a comfortable presence in the box with developing bat speed and pull-side tendencies. Also seemed comfortable with box adjustments pre-pitch. Wiry 6-foot, 150-pound frame. 

OF Zach Karlis (Hersey, 2026)
Possessing an athletic 5-foot-8, 145-pound frame with room for added strength, Karlis showed off some intentful swings at the plate. At the plate, the right-hander showed strong hands that worked into a direct path. Karlis showed the ability to find the barrel in Saturday’s pool play game, sending a pull-side solo home run to deep left field.

Rhino 17U Cesario

RHP Madden Manthey (Minooka, 2026)
Manthey would make an impressive relief appearance during Rhino’s Saturday matchup, collecting the last nine outs while allowing no baserunners and collecting seven strikeouts. Confident in the zone throughout his appearance, showed an 82-84 mph fastball while working from a lower ¾ slot. Athletic 6-foot-1, 165-pound frame.

RHP Braedon Myers (Fulton, 2026)
Myers would show well during the Rhino’s Saturday matchup with a solid two pitch mix which included an 81-84 mph fastball and 74-75 curveball. An athletic 5-foot-11, 148-pound frame there is plenty of room for added strength. Arm to follow for college coaches. 

C Nolan Robertson (Aurora Christian, 2026)
Robertson would show an intriguing RHH/C profile this past weekend. At the plate, showed a line-drive oriented swing with developing feel for the barrel and an all-fields approach. Defensively, showed leadership qualities behind the dish to pair with developing hands. Athletic 6-foo, 165-pound frame with room for added strength.

Rhino 17U Vera

LHP Eric Rainbolt (Bradley-Bourbonnais, 2026)
A lean, athletic 6-foot, 145-pounds left-handed pitcher, Rainbolt had an efficient complete game performance Friday against BAM 2026 Prime with a 66 percent strike rate. Rainbolt struck out 9 of 24 batters faced with one run allowed, two hits and walked one. The fastball played with a heavy arm-side run that attacked the zone, sitting 82-83 mph throughout the entire outing. Playing off the fastball was a curveball with late breaking 1/5 movement that creates swings and misses.

INF Kamden Muell (Yorkville, 2026) 
A high-waisted, lean, 6-foot-2, 157-pound frame, Muell was on the barrel going 2-for-2 with a single, double, and walk, driving in two. Able to hold down the leadoff spot, Muell started today with an oppo single over the shortstop's head, then lined a double pull-side scoring two. The left-hander stands tall at the back of the box, slightly open, with the knees bent. Long leg extension down the box, followed by strong hands creating an uphill path working through the ball. 

LHP Brady Tunkel (Joliet Catholic, 2026) 
A quick three-inning start for the wiry, high-waisted, 6-foot-3, 170-pound Tunkel as he allows no runs, on one hit, one walk, while striking out four. Working with a high tempo, filling up the zone with a 2-pitch mix, with a heavy fastball usage. The fastball was working 80-82 mph with lots of cut, with the slider sitting 71-72 mph with slight sweep. Working out of an athletic, repeatable high-kick motion, followed by a loose, fluid lower ¾ arm action. Tunkel had complete control on the mound, pounding the zone with the fastball, creating whiffs and weak contact. 

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RHP Grayson Coughlin (Tri-Valley, 2026)
Athletic 5-foot-11, 180-pound frame. Coughlin threw a 13 strikeout no-hitter on Friday while only allowing two runners on base, each on walks. The right-hander operates from a simple, controlled delivery with a high leg lift and a tall/fall approach. Long, loose, clean arm action from a ¾ slot. His fastball sat 82-84 mph with life through the zone. Mixed in a tight slider that sat 72-74 mph. 

RHP Jacob Engel (Normal Community, 2026)
Athletic 6-foot, 170-pound frame with room to add strength. Engel shined on Friday as he struck out ten batters through 5.2 strong innings. The right-hander has a quick, short arm action from a low ¾ slot. His fastball sat 81-84 mph with arm-side run. Mixed in a slider that sat 73-76 mph sharp, late actions. 

Top Tier IN 17U Nationals 

CF Colin Schere (Gibson Southern, 2026) 
A lean 5-foot-10 frame, Scherer showed well early Saturday morning, going 3-for-4 with three singles. The left-handed hitter was on the barrel, standing in with a wide base, small leg kick, followed by hands that stay compact and quick to the ball. A line drive approach, creating a flat path that is direct ot the ball, working the whole field. 

 

DH Bige Asher (Columbus East, 2026) 
Giving an intriguing look, Saturday morning is a towering, 6-foot-5, 240-pound frame, Bige Asher. The big right-handed hitter ended his game going 1-for-3 with a line drive single. Setting up with a slightly open, wide base, it's a simple swing with a simple approach. A small toe tap load, with quick twitch hands that stay compact, creating a flat path, working through the ball. The frame creates easy, low-effort power working to the pull side. 

Team Ox Wood

LHP Matt Sander (Morton, 2026)
Standing in at an athletic 6-foot-2, 190-pound frame, Sander was in control on the mound during his start on Friday, throwing five hitless innings with three walks, no earned runs and six punchouts in a 4-3 win. The uncommitted lefty throws out of a high ¾ slot with a simple delivery, showing repeatability with control of his body down the mound. Sander attacked hitters with a  low-80s fastball (T84) that came with some sink, with pronounced movement when thrown down in the zone. He was able to generate plenty of ground balls, with eight of his nine batted balls resulting in groundouts. Along with his fastball, he also featured a mid-70s change-up with depth. To round out his arsenal, Sander offered two different looks at a high 60s breaking ball: one that played with more of a 11/5 shape, and another one that at times looked like a sweeper. While battling the rain, Sander was able to stay composed and keep a quality feel for all of his offerings and provide an electric performance on the mound.

C Joel Mingus (Pekin Community, 2026)
Standing in at a sturdy 6-foot-2, 250-pound frame with strength present throughout, Mingus showed some easy pull-side power at the plate in Saturday’s pool play game. The right-hander operated out of a simple setup, showing strong hands that worked into a flatter path that created loft. Mingus pinch-hit in the final inning of the game, sending a three-run home run to deep left field to put his team on the board.

SS Josiah Kniep (Peoria Christian, 2026) 
A wiry-athletic 5-foot-7, 155-pound frame had an impressive showing at the plate on Thursday going 4-for-6 on the day. Kniep has an aggressive gap-to-gap approach with some loft to his swing. He had multiple quality at bats throughout the day and weekend. Defensively, he has athletic actions and showed range to the glove hand side and in the six hole on multiple plays.

USA Prime Chicago Blue 17U

MIF Kellen Schulte (Lincoln-Way West, 2026)
Athletic 6-foot, 155-pound frame. Schulte got the start at second base in Saturday’s 13-4 pool play win, showing off the ability to find the barrel at the plate. The right-handed hitter possessed a simple setup with strong hands that worked into a level path. Schulte was able to find a barrel for a pull-side solo home run to deep left field. 

RHP Owen Lense (Lincoln-Way East, 2026)
Strong 6-foot, 180-pound frame. Lense had a loud outing Saturday night as he struck out nine batters through four innings. The right-hander operates from a simple, uptempo delivery with a high leg lift with tuck and a tall/fall approach. Compact, short, clean arm action from a ¾ slot. His fastball sat 85-88 mph while topping out at 89 mph with life through the zone. He mixed in a curveball that sat 72-75 mph with sharp actions. Lense also flashed a changeup that sat 77-78 mph. Intriguing uncommitted 2026 arm.

Wow Factor OHV National

RHP Cole Krumpelman (Covington Catholic, 2026)
Coming in at an athletic 6-foot-2, 194-pound frame with long levers present, Krumpelman gave our staff two impressive outings on the bump. The right-hander utilized a high leg kick into a deliberate delivery, working in-line athletically down the mound, showing a loose ¾ arm action. He was able to miss barrels with his three pitch mix. His fastball played with ASR, sitting 86-88 mph and topped 89 mph. He also flashed a tight slider at 75-79 mph, and a changeup at 79-82 mph. Krumpelman tossed three scoreless innings with six strikeouts in his first outing, working out of a bases-loaded situation to earn the win. He followed it up in Sunday’s Semifinal game, tossing four innings with only one hit allowed on six strikeouts to earn the win. An overall impressive showing from the right-hander, who appears to be an uncommitted arm to follow.

C George Finley Insko (Tates Creek, 2026)
Currently ranked No. 109 in Kentucky’s junior class. Lean 6-foot-2, 180-pound frame with some strength present. Insko had a strong weekend on both sides of the ball, showing feel for the barrel and quality actions behind the dish. The right-handed hitter operated out of a slightly open setup, working back in-line with a short life/place stride, showing loose hands into a direct path. In Sunday’s championship game, Insko showed the ability to go the other way, sending a double down the right field line. Defensively, showed soft hands at the plate with a strong arm. 

1B Hudson Edwards (Beechwood, 2026)
Physical 6-foot-3, 180-pound frame with room to add strength. Edwards was consistently all over the barrel this weekend. The left-handed hitter has a pure swing with a gap-to-gap approach. His long levers allow him to make hard contact at the bottom of the zone. Collected multiple extra-base hits across the weekend. Interesting left-handed power bat to keep an eye on in the Kentucky 2026 class.

RHP Sawyer Carlisle (Beechwood, 2026)
Currently ranked No. 173 in Kentucky’s junior class. Carlisle struck out four batters through two shutout innings, allowing only one runner on base. Utilizes a long, clean arm action from a ¾ slot. His fastball sat 82-85 mph with life through the zone. He mixed in a slider that sat 73-76 mph with late action. Intriguing 2026 uncommitted arm in the Kentucky 2026 class.

RHP Xaden Hughes (Larry A. Ryle, 2026)
Strong 6-foot-3, 200-pound frame. Hughes threw a three-inning no-hitter as he led a powerful lineup. The right-hander operates from a stretch-only delivery with a high leg lift and a tall/fall approach. Full, clean, quick arm action from a ¾ slot. His fastball sat 82-84 mph with an average spin rate of 2350 RPM. He mixed in a curveball that sat 66-68 mph with sharp actions. Flashed a slider that sat around 73 mph with 2400 RPM. Another interesting uncommitted arm in the Kentucky 2026 class.

Yard Goat Baseball

OF Andrew Wagoner (Effingham, 2026)
Lean 5-foot-9, 160-pound frame. Wagoner had a strong day at the plate in Saturday’s pool play game, getting a hold of a ball on the outside corner to send it over the left field fence for a two-run home run. The right-handed hitter possessed quick hands that worked into a flatter path, creating some loft.

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