From Thursday June 23rd to Sunday June 28th, our staff hosted the PBT Illinois Open at the Rantoul Family Sports Complex in Rantoul, IL. This open event was host to over 70 teams from numerous states, putting some of the area’s best talent on display. 

Today, we are taking a look at some of the standouts from the event, found below. 

14U

Bandits 14u- Haas

Brooks Heaton, INF/RHP, Corpus Christi, 2030
Left handed hitter, mostly played shortstop but also had looks at second and third base. Had a strong weekend at the plate, going 6-for-11 throughout the tournament with two doubles and three RBIs. Also had a start on the mound in which he allowed two runs in five innings, allowing three hits, four walks, and striking out four.

Westin Umphrey, C, Normal West, 2030
Very open stance, keeps knees bent. Did a strong job at holding weight back through the pitch and staying on the baseball, on-time consistently. Had three extra base hits over the weekend, including two doubles and a triple.

Charlie Haas, RHP, 2030
Haas had two appearances on the mound throughout the weekend, totaling eight innings pitched, allowing three hits, two runs, four walks, and five strikeouts throughout the tournament. Got the start against Yard Goats on Thursday, throwing five hitless innings with two walks while punching out three. 

Big Time Mercs

Brady Salmon, C/1B, Cedarburg, 2030
Salmon has a physical frame to pair with advanced discipline at the plate. His swing from the left side of the plate is smooth and fluid, and it should develop into more power as he continues to mature. Behind the plate he shows an above average ability to move and throw.

Kale Barnes, C, Cedarburg 2030
Listed at 5-foot-10, 150-pounds. Proportional build with present strength. Took quality at bats throughout the weekend with plenty of loud contact, including a home run on Friday. Finished the weekend 7-for-10 with a home run and eight RBIs. Strong arm behind the plate

Mason Baker, OF, Cedarburg, 2030
Stands in at 5-foot-9, 150-pounds. Had a strong weekend out of the lineup spot for Big Time Mercs, finishing 5-for-11 with a double at the plate.

Reed Newport, RHP, Cedarburg, 2030
Got the start for Big Time and was dominant, striking out seven across five scoreless innings of work, allowing just three hits and a walk. Attacked hitters with a 72-74 mph fastball, attacking the hitters by landing it for strikes and getting soft contact.

Champaign Dream Ager 14u

Jasper Pratt, INF, 2029
Had a strong showing this tournament, collecting a hit in each game played for a final line of 5-for-8 with a double on the weekend.

Filthy 14u- Ellis

Andrew Nowarita, C, Andrean, 2030
Advanced 6-foot-3, 195-pound frame with more to come. Nowarita has a defined lower half and built upper body. Along with power, he has advanced discipline at the plate going 9-for-15 with five extra base hits including a home run and triple. Behind the plate he is an advanced defender with multiple low 2-second pop times and advanced knowledge. An impressive overall weekend for the right-hander who is set to represent Team Indiana at the Junior Future Games. 

Jordan Anderson, INF/P, LaPorte, 2029
Anderson has a compact, developed frame that is defined by his lower half strength. He threw four innings and struck out four and only gave up three hits in the semi-final game. His pitch mix consisted of a fastball at 78-80 mph, and a dominant slider at 67 mph.

Kingston Dumes, RHP, Lawrence Central, 2030
Physical, durable frame and listed at 6-foot-3, 225-pounds. Finished the day with three innings pitched, allowing one run, two hits, two walks, and striking out seven. Mostly worked with a FB/CB combo. Worked the fastball in the 74-77 mph range, landing the pitch for strikes and even getting it up to 79 mph early in the game. Showed feel for the breaking ball, landing the pitch with some sweep at times at 61-64 mph. 

Justin Balas, 1B, Andrean, 2030  
Listed at 6-foot-1, 180-pounds. Left handed hitter, sets up from an upright stance, looks comfortable at the plate. Hit out of the cleanup spot and finished the weekend 4-for-7 with a pair of home runs and six RBIs.

Illinois Patriots

Tobias Sathoff, INF, 2030
Currently listed at 5-foot-11, 150-pounds, stands in with a lean and athletic frame with plenty of room for additional strength. Spent time on the left side of the infield throughout the weekend, mostly at third base and occasionally at short. Fielded with confidence, moved well side to side to receive the ground ball.

Braxton Myers, RHP, Sacred Heart-Griffin, 2030
Currently listed at a projectable 6-foot-2, 160-pounds with plenty of room for added strength. Had a strong feel for his mechanics, moving with ease down the mound repeatedly while battling the weather. Worked with a fastball/breaking ball combo, with the fastball living at 73-75 mph and the breaking ball at 64-66 mph. Struck out six across four innings of work, also hit a double at the plate in the game. 

Hunter Helfrich, 1B/C, Clinton, 2030
Currently listed at 5-foot-11, 185-pounds. Upright, slightly open stance. Had a strong weekend overall at the plate, going 4-for-7 with two doubles and seven RBIs with a lot of loud contact throughout the tournament.

PTA McIntyre 14U

Jacob Sailer, LHP, Marquette, 2030
Had two appearances on the mound this weekend, eight innings, eight hits, four walks, and ten punchouts. His first start on the mound saw him strike out five batters across three shutout innings of work.

Yard Goats

Max Dallas, CIF, 2030
Right handed hitter, stout build. Had a strong tournament at the plate, finishing 5-for-8 over the weekend with two doubles and three RBIs. Has a standard setup with a large leg lift and stride. Was on the barrel throughout the weekend, hitting the ball hard in multiple at bats. 

15U

Bandits 15U- Bieterman

Beckham Hehn, C, Monticello, 2029
A Left-handed hitting catcher that batted leadoff with a mature build that packs power. Went 5-for-7 on the weekend with three extra base hits including a home run. His swing is simple and powerful, he uses both sides of the field effectively. Plays an advanced defense behind the plate and shows projection.

Zach Overocker, SS/RHP, Fieldcrest, 2029
Overocker has a tall, thin build that has power complemented by his bat to ball skills. Went 8-for-10 on the weekend with five extra base hits and two home runs. He has a quick bat and a loose swing that is driven by his lower half. Highly projectable and will continue to mature and hit for power.

Canes Indiana 15u Black Roselli

Dominic Chiodo, C/3B, Danville, 2029
Finished 3-for-7 on the weekend with a double and two home runs. Shows promise for growth and for more power while becoming an advanced defender behind the plate.

CMB Select

Carson DesJarlais, OF, Brookfield East, 2029
Wiry 6-foot, 165-pound frame with plenty of room to fill in strength. DesJarlais put together a perfect 2-for-2 day at the plate in Sunday’s 11-1 win, showcasing a loose, handsy swing with bat-to-ball skills. The left-handed hitter possessed a slightly open setup, utilizing a short toe-tap stride with loose hands into a direct path. He also proved to be a threat on the base paths with two stolen bases in the game.

John Fitzgerald III, 3B/RHP, Brookfield East, 2029
Athletic 5-foot-9, 148-pound frame with additional room to add on strength. Fitzgerald II found multiple barrels throughout the tournament, including a deep drive to center field for a two-run home run in Sunday’s 11-1 win. The right-handed hitter showed strong hands at the plate with some feel for the barrel. He also went on to toss a complete game on the mound in that win, keeping hitters off-balance to only allow one run on four hits and five strikeouts. An impressive performance on both sides of the ball for the rising sophomore.

Lewis Wetzel, C, Arrowhead, 2029
Trim, athletic 5-foot-11, 175-pound frame. Wetzel provided a boost to the lineup from the seven-hole in their 11-1 win on Sunday, finishing 2-for-3 with a double that nearly left the yard, an RBI single through the infield and a walk. The right-hander displayed a simple setup with a lift/place stride, showing loose hands into an uphill path. 

GRB STiKS Northshore

Charlie Ford, OF, Whitefish Bay, 2029
Trim, wiry 5-foot-9, 130-pounds. Ford showed a strong feel for the barrel in multiple looks this weekend, batting in the three-hole for GRB STiKS Northshore. The left-handed hitter showed a balanced setup, coiling into his load with no stride, utilizing loose, rhythmic hands with strong bat-to-ball skills. Ford helped pace the STiKS offense during Sunday morning’s bracket play, finishing 3-for-3 with an RBI and two runs scored. An intriguing left-handed bat to keep an eye on as he continues to develop.

HTP 15U National Red

Reed Roiger, RHP,  Northfield Senior, 2028
Has a simple delivery with no waisted movement, throws out of a higher ¾ slot with ease. Showed off an interesting three pitch mix in his two innings of work. His fastball came in at 78-81 mph range, topping out once at 83 mph. He also displayed a feel for two secondary offerings: a 66-69 mph slider and a 69-70 mph splitter, using both pitches to help strike out three across two scoreless innings.

PTA White 15U

Charlie Schmidt, 1B/3B, St. Thomas-More, 2029
Highly projectable build and will develop. He went 5-for-9 with two doubles and a home run. Shows impressive bat to ball skills and packs power with every ball he lines off. In the field his glove at first is advanced and steady, making plays on everything we saw hit to him. 

Rawlings Tigers Fiore

Nathaniel Silic, C, Lincoln-Way West, 2029
Strong 5-foot-10, 165-pound frame with plenty of room to add on. Silic got the start behind the dish and batted in the eight-hole for the Tigers in the 15U Championship, knocking in the go-ahead run on a double down the left field line in the bottom of the second. The right-handed hitter displayed a balanced setup, hanging his foot into a longer stride with loose hands into an uphill path. Silic went on to finish 1-for-2 at the plate with an RBI double in an 8-0 championship victory.

Nolan Glynn, 2B/3B, Lincoln-Way west, 2029
Glynn hit leadoff for the 15u Champions for the weekend. Got off to a hot start, going 4-for-5 through two games with a triple. Glynn has plate discipline and shows above average bat to ball skills. He plays above average up the middle with rangy actions and steady hands with the ability to still improve.

Alex Niekula, RHP/2B, Homewood-Flossmoor, 2029
Pitched four innings striking out nine and only giving up three hits. His fastball was consistently 80 mph and used that in tandem with a 12/6 curve at 64-65mph. He regularly filled the zone and competed with hitters from both sides of the plate.

Easton Harvey, RHP, Lincoln-Way Central, 2029
|Uncommitted. Strong 6-foot-3, 200-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Got the start on the mound and tossed a complete-game six innings, allowing two runs (one earned) while walking three and striking out eight. Attacked hitters with a 74-78 mph fastball and mixed in a 63 mph curveball to keep hitters off balance throughout the outing.

Top Tier Central Americans

Kiptyn Rosenthal, 2B, St. Joseph-Ogden, 2029
Compact, wiry 5-foot-6, 140-pound frame with plenty of time to add on strength. Rosenthal is coming off a 2A State championship with St. Joseph Ogden, and did not disappoint this weekend. The right-handed hitter showcased a hitterish feel at the plate, finding multiple barrels throughout the weekend, including a first pitch home run in Sunday’s 11-1 win. An intriguing rising sophomore to keep an eye on.

Marcus Hutchings, SS, Paris, 2029
Trim, athletic 6-foot-1, 160-pound frame with more fill to come. Hutchings was all over the barrel this weekend, including multiple extra base hits during Sunday’s 11-1 win. The right-handed hitter showed strong, loose hands with some jump off the barrel. He went on to finish 2-for-3 on the day with a backside home run and a double and a double into left field. Strong weekend for the rising sophomore infielder. 

Braden Davis, OF, Galesburg, 2029
Davis has consistently performed well in front of our staff both in-game and in-event, putting together a strong weekend at the plate with athletic actions in the outfield. The right-handed hitter showed a confident approach in the box, displaying loose hands with the ability to drive the ball to all fields. Davis found multiple barrels in Sunday’s 11-1 win, finishing 2-for-2 with a pull-side stand-up double and a backside three-run home run for three RBIs and two runs scored. A projectable right-handed to follow as he continues to develop.

Yard Goats Black

Kale Yohnka, RHP/INF, Monticello, 2029
Yohnka has a tall, mature frame that will continue to fill out. His bat is advanced and shows promise for power. He pitched three innings striking out one, walking one and not allowing any runs.

Hunter Cler, RHP, St. Joseph-Ogden, 2028
Uncommitted. Lean, projectable 5-foot-11, 145-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Got the start on the mound and struck out 11 over 4.1 innings while allowing three runs. Attacked the strike zone with a three-pitch mix, featuring a 77-81 mph fastball, a 67 mph breaking ball, and a 69 mph changeup. Showed the ability to consistently work ahead in counts and miss bats throughout the outing.

16U

5 Star Chicago Bandits Baseball

Quinn Wiedelman, C, St. Ignatius, 2028
Uncommitted. Wiry 6-foot-1, 190-pound frame. At the plate, the right-handed hitter started with his weight shifted onto his back leg, showing quick hands into a direct path. In Friday’s 11-5 win, the right-hander worked the barrel down in the zone to send a ball down the left field line for an RBI double, finishing 1-for-3 on the day with two RBIs. 

Bandits 16U- Miller

Mayson Aslinger, OF, Normal West, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot-2, 175-pound frame. Left-handed hitter who batted cleanup. Consistently found the barrel throughout the weekend, showing an aggressive approach with the ability to drive the baseball to all fields. Later in the tournament, stood out by battling through a lengthy at-bat before delivering a two-RBI single to the opposite field. Showed the ability to stay on the baseball and produce in key situations. 

Canes Central Illinois 16u

Maxwell Virgil, RHP/INF, Washington, 2028
Uncommitted. Well-proportioned 6-foot, 175-pound frame with some strength present throughout. Virgil provided a strong look on the mound during Sunday’s bracket play, tossing a six inning complete game with eight strikeouts on just one run allowed. The right-hander attacked hitters with an effective three-pitch mix that kept hitters off-balance throughout the game. His fastball sat 83-86 mph with arm-side run, inducing whiffs from multiple hitters. He also employed an 11/5 curveball at 75-77 mph with a short break, and a fading changeup at 78-79 mph. The right-hander also had a strong day at the plate, finishing 2-for-4 with an RBI while batting from the three-hole. 

Radek Hetelle, OF, Illinois Valley Central, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot-2, 190-pound frame with strength present throughout. Hetelle provided an offensive boost from the bottom of the lineup for Canes Central Illinois 16U, getting a hold of one to deep center field for a solo home run on an 0-2 count. At the plate, the right-hander operated out of a balanced setup, utilizing a short toe-tap stride with loose, rhythmic hands and an intent to lift. 

Zakhary Kleist, OF, Metamora, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic, proportional 5-foot-10, 180-pound frame with some strength present throughout. Kleist showed some easy pull-side power in Sunday’s bracket play win, launching a ball to right field for a three-run home run. At the plate, the left-handed hitter displayed strong, rhythmic hands with the ability to lift the ball to the pull-side. Kleist would go on to finish 2-for-4 with four RBIs and a run scored. Strong overall day at the plate from the rising junior. 

Cangelosi Sparks 16u White

Rory Moore, MIF, Ottawa, 2028
Uncommitted. 5-foot-10, 155-pound frame. Right-handed hitter who batted leadoff and started at second base. Finished the game 3-for-3 with two RBIs, two runs scored, and a walk. Showed a quality two-strike approach, shooting a single to right field while consistently putting together competitive at-bats. Reached base in all four plate appearances and set the tone from the leadoff spot. 

Colin Gary, OF/LHP, Aurora Christian, 2028
Uncommitted. 5-foot-10, 155-pound frame. Left-handed pitcher. Got the start in the opening game and fired a five-inning no-hitter, striking out eight. Fastball sat 76-78 mph, pairing it with a changeup at 69-71 mph. Also made an impact at the plate later in the weekend, finishing 3-for-3 with three runs scored, a double, a triple, a hit by pitch, and a stolen base. Showed the ability to contribute on both sides of the ball throughout the tournament. 

Cangelosi Sparks North - White 2028

Devan Richards, CF, Oak Park-River Forest, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-9, 142-pound frame. Left-handed hitter who batted leadoff. Showcased his speed throughout the weekend, swiping nine bases in five games while also tracking down multiple balls in the gaps defensively. In the opening game, finished 2-for-4 with a double, a run scored, and two stolen bases, while also lining a hard-hit ball to right field for an out. Displayed a line-drive approach to all fields and consistently looked to utilize his speed to pressure the defense. 

Ryan Cooper, SS, Maine West, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-11, 150-pound frame. Right-handed hitter who batted in the two-hole. Confident defender at shortstop with smooth actions and reliable hands. Finished the opening game of the weekend 3-for-4 with a run scored. Displayed a balanced approach at the plate, consistently finding the barrel and producing quality contact. 

Jack Trybus, OF/1B, Glenbard West, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot-1, 170-pound frame. Left-handed hitter who batted cleanup and started at first base. Finished the opening game of the weekend 1-for-3 with a walk and an RBI. Showed the ability to use the opposite field, driving an RBI single to left field, and later homered during the weekend. Displayed a balanced setup at the plate with the ability to drive the baseball to all fields. 

Carson Edmunds, MIF, Fremd, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-10, 130-pound frame. Left-handed hitter who batted in the six-hole. Came through in the clutch multiple times during the semifinal, delivering back-to-back go-ahead hits. Lined an RBI single back through the middle before later driving a two-run double into the right-center field gap. Finished the game 2-for-3 with four RBIs and two runs scored. Showed the ability to rise to the moment and produce quality at-bats in key situations. 

Chace Vala, LHP, Downers Grove North, 2028
6-foot-2, 165 pounds. Lean, athletic frame. Loose arm actions from a high ¾ delivery. Started on the mound and hit eighth in the lineup. Strong outing on the mound: 5 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 4 BB, 13 K. Showed three pitches in game. Fastball topped 83 mph (4x), sat 81-82 mph. Slider topped 71 mph, sat 69-70 mph with sweep and sharp bite. Changeup topped 79 mph, sat 76-78 mph with fade. Quick tempo on the mound, was consistently ahead in counts and attacking hitters. At the plate was 2-for-4 with a triple to right center field and and single through the five-six hole. 

Emmett Schulze, C, Oak Park River Forest, 2028
5-foot-8, 165 pounds. Strong, compact frame. Started behind the plate and hit ninth in the lineup. Showed athletic movement behind the plate, strong receiving skills, ability to present borderline pitches well. At the plate was 1-for-3 with a line drive single to right center field. 

CMB Select 16U

CJ Sterzinger, SS, Oconomowoc, 2028
Uncommitted. Trim, athletic 5-foot-11, 155-pound frame with room to add. The right-handed hitter put together a strong day at the plate during Sunday’s bracket play, launching a three-run home run to right-center field. The right-hander operated out of a slightly open setup, working back to even with a short lift/place stride. He went on to finish 2-for-2 with a home run, four RBIs, and a run scored. He also showed a steady glove up the middle during the game with accurate throws to first throughout the tournament. Rising junior to follow. 

Hudson Stanek, 3B, Pewaukee, 2028
Uncommitted. Compact 5-foot-10, 190-pound frame with strength present throughout. Stanek showed some easy power at the plate throughout the tournament, especially in his two-home run game in bracket play. The right-handed hitter showed strong hands at the plate with a feel for the barrel and an intent to lift the ball up the middle. He went on to finish 2-for-2 at the plate in CMB Select’s last game with two loud home runs to center field for three RBIs, three runs scored, and a walk. An impressive overall performance from the rising junior.

Connor Paulsrud, RHP, Waukesha West, 2028
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 56 in Wisconsin's 2028 class. Strong 6-foot, 196-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Got the start and worked 6.1 innings, allowing four hits, four runs (two earned), three walks, and striking out eight. Attacked hitters with an 82-84 mph fastball while mixing in an 80 mph changeup. Featured a 72-73 mph slider at 2,400 rpm that he consistently landed for strikes and generated swing-and-miss with. Competed throughout the outing and showed the ability to sequence all three pitches effectively. 

Braydon Parent, INF, Arrowhead, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot-2, 190-pound frame. Right-handed hitter, batted in the cleanup spot and started at shortstop. Turned in a strong tournament at the plate, opening game one by going 2-for-2 with two RBIs, one run scored, and a walk. Collected a single to right field before delivering the go-ahead two-run home run to center field. Continued his productive weekend in game three with two more extra-base hits, ripping a double to center field and a triple to center. Consistently on the barrel throughout the tournament with the ability to drive the baseball to all fields. 

ESP Select 16u Black 2028s

Nathan Tunt, 1B, Normal Community, 2028
Uncommitted. Strong 6-foot-2, 175-pound frame. Tunt showcased some easy pull-side power in Friday’s 11-0 win, pulling a ball down the left field line for a grand slam. At the plate, the right-hander showed strong, quick hands with loud contact to the pull-side. Strong overall day for the rising junior right-handed hitter.

Jack Mackey, OF, Neuqua Valley, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-11, 170-pound frame with additional room to add strength. Mackey displayed some intriguing offensive tools in multiple looks throughout the week, showcasing interesting hit and run tools. The rising junior has run a 6.71-second runner in-event, and that speed translated in-game. In Friday’s 11-0 win, the right-hander lifted a ball to deep left field for a two-run home run, finishing 1-for-2 with two RBIs, a walk, and two runs scored. A rising junior outfielder to follow as he continues to add strength. 

AJ MacMillan, RHP, Yorkville, 2028
Uncommitted. Trim, high-waisted 6-foot-3, 175-pound build with more to come. The right-hander got the start on the mound in Friday’s 12-0 win, tossing an efficient three innings to earn the win for ESP Select Black. The right-hander displayed an up-tempo delivery, employing a high leg lift with tuck into a drop/drive lower half, utilizing a loose ¾ release. MacMillan attacked hitters with a fastball/curveball mix, only allowing one hit with four strikeouts. His fastball was 80-83 mph with life out of the hand, and he paired it with a 12/6 curveball at 68-70 mph with an average spin rate of 2,400+ rpm. A projectable right-handed arm to follow as he continues to develop.

Tyler Scott, OF, Waubonsie Valley, 2028
Uncommitted. Lean 5-foot-11, 156-pound frame with plenty of room to fill in. Scott was all over the barrel in Friday’s 12-0 win, collecting three extra base hits to finish 3-for-3 on the day with a triple, two doubles, two RBIs, and two runs scored. The right-handed hitter displayed a wider setup with rhythmic, loose hands and a feel for the barrel. An impressive overall day at the plate for the rising junior outfielder.

Vincent Grimm, SS, Oswego East, 2028
Uncommitted. Compact 5-foot-8, 156-pound frame. Grimm showcased quality actions from the leadoff spot for ESP Select Black throughout the tournament. The left-handed hitter possessed a loose, handsy swing at the plate, with bat-to-ball skills and the ability to use the entire field. The left-hander went 6-for-10 on the weekend with a triple, two doubles, five RBIs, four runs scored, and a walk. A rising junior middle infielder to keep an eye on.

Jack Roberts, INF, Waubonsie Valley, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot, 175-pound frame. Roberts was all over the barrel in Friday’s 12-0 win, collecting two extra base hits to finish 2-for-3 with a home run and a double.The right-handed hitter displayed setup, gaining ground with a medium toe-tap stride, showing strong hands with barrel control. Overall, Roberts played a major role in the team's 12-0 win, finishing with two extra-base hits and a game-high five RBIs.

GRB STiKS White

Daniel Jupp, SS, Wisconsin Luther, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot-1, 165-pound frame. Right-handed hitter who batted cleanup and started at shortstop. Finished the opening game of the weekend 2-for-4. Showed the ability to work quality at-bats and consistently extended counts. Utilized his speed throughout the weekend to swipe multiple bases. Athletic defender who displayed range up the middle, highlighted by a sliding play to record an out. 

Drew Heun, 2B, Brookfield Central, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot, 172-pound frame with additional room to fill in strength. Heun showed well at the plate with Friday’s pool play game, finishing 2-for-2 at the plate with a double down the left field line, a walk, and two runs scored. The right-hander displayed a handsy swing, looking to stay on top of the ball with a line-drive approach. An intriguing right-handed bat to keep an eye on as he continues to develop. 

HTP 2028 National Black

Joe Korthauer, C/OF, First Baptist, 2029
A tall, athletic, matured body that shows room for development. His ability to hit is advanced while going 7-for-13 with several multi hit games, that include three doubles. His swing is loose and quick and he can develop power in the future. Behind the plate Korthauer defends at an above average level with steady hands and a sufficient arm. 

Maxx Staub, RHP, Randolph Secondary, 2028
Uncommitted. Lean, projectable 6-foot-1, 152-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Came on in relief and fired three scoreless innings, allowing just two hits while striking out four. Attacked hitters with a fastball at 80-84 mph. Mixed in a 70-72 mph curveball with depth, consistently landing it for strikes and using it effectively to keep hitters off balance. 

Deacon Staples, C, Two Rivers, 2028
Uncommitted. Strong 6-foot, 190-pound frame. Left-handed hitter, batted out of the six hole and caught. Turned in a productive weekend at the plate, opening with a 3-for-3 performance in game one while driving in two runs. Followed it up by going 1-for-2 with a walk and two more RBIs in game two. Consistently found the barrel and produced quality at-bats throughout the weekend. 

QC Select 16u

Braydon Oakes, C, Rockridge, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-8, 135-pound frame. Right-handed hitter, batted out of the five hole and caught. Finished game two 2-for-3 while showing a line-drive approach at the plate. Athletic defender behind the plate with quality receiving traits, throwing out a runner attempting to steal. Also showed defensive versatility by seeing time at second base. 

Kellen VanKerrebroeck, CF, Geneseo, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-11, 165-pound frame. Right-handed hitter, batted third and started in center field. Finished game three 3-for-4 with three RBIs and two runs scored. Delivered the game's biggest swing with a bases-clearing double, showing the ability to drive the baseball with runners in scoring position. Consistently on the barrel throughout the game while producing quality contact. 

Rawlings Tigers Chicago Icon

Sam Nielsen, RHP, Lincoln-Way Central, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-6, 160-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Got the start and worked four scoreless innings, allowing just two hits with no walks while striking out six. Competed in the zone with a true three-pitch mix. Fastball sat 80-82 mph. Mixed in a changeup at 73 mph with fading action and a curveball at 67-69 mph that generated swings and misses while consistently landing for strikes. 

Rhino CI 16u Miller

Leyton Chopra, LHP, Glenwood, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-10, 130-pound frame. Left-handed pitcher. Turned in a solid outing, working four innings while allowing three runs on three hits and striking out three. Showed a simple, repeatable delivery with a clean arm action. Fastball sat 79-82 mph, pairing it with a curveball at 66 mph that showed quality depth and generated swings and misses. 

Briggs Cushing, C, Normal Community, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-10, 160-pound frame. Right-handed hitter who batted in the two-hole and started behind the plate. Finished the opening game of the weekend 1-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored. In his first at-bat, lined an RBI single to left field. Showed a line-drive approach at the plate and proved to be a solid defender behind the plate throughout the game. 

Top Tier Nationals

Brock Willits, C/1B, Hinsdale Central, 2029
Uncommitted. 6-foot-1, 190-pound frame. Left-handed hitter who batted in the three-hole and started at first base. Consistently found the barrel in the opening game, finishing 2-for-2 with two runs scored, an RBI, and a hit by pitch. Highlighted his day with an eight-pitch at-bat that ended in a line-drive single to the pull side. Showed a mature approach at the plate with the ability to battle through at-bats and produce quality contact. 

Twin City Defenders

Logan Hadsall, RHP/3B, Christian Life Academy, 2027
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-11, 185-pound frame. Hadsall turned in a strong two-way performance in Friday morning’s pool play game, nearly going the full distance on the mound for Twin City Defenders while also providing an impact at the plate. The right-hander was intriguing on the mound, attacking hitters with a fastball/curveball mix that consistently missed barrels. His fastball sat 79-82 mph with arm-side run, and he paired it with a 11/5 curveball at 63-64 mph that produced whiffs throughout the game. Final Line: 6.2 IP, 2 H, 4 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 8 SO. At the plate, the right-hander was on the barrel in multiple at-bats, collecting a home run to center field to finish 2-for-2 on the day. Interesting two-way follow. 

White Sox Elite 16U Black

Quinn Sutherland, OF, Marist, 2028
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 110 in Illinois' 2028 class. Left-handed hitter who batted leadoff throughout the weekend. Turned in an outstanding offensive performance, finishing 10-for-16 with seven runs scored, eight RBIs, three walks, a double, and a triple. Consistently found the barrel in every game, showing a line-drive approach with the ability to use all fields. Reached base at a high rate, set the table from the leadoff spot, and was one of the most productive hitters of the weekend. 

Kenan Torlo, C, Maine South, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-10, 185-pound frame. Right-handed hitter who batted in the three-hole and started behind the plate. Made an impact throughout the tournament, launching a home run over the left-field fence in the opening game before later delivering a walk-off double to left field. Showed strength at the plate with the ability to drive the baseball, while also providing a strong presence behind the plate defensively. 

Finn Carroll, RHP, Benet Academy, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot-4, 163-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Got the start and worked five innings, allowing one run on three hits while striking out eight. Command was scattered at times, but he worked around it by coming up with key strikeouts in big situations. Fastball sat 78-80 mph, pairing it with a curveball at 70 mph that showed quality depth. Hid the ball well throughout his delivery, making for an uncomfortable look for hitters. 

Jack Nahumyk, 3B, York, 2028
Uncommitted. Compact 5-foot-6, 155-pound frame. Nahumyk showed some strong bat-to-ball skills in Saturday’s 6-5 win, finishing 2-for-3 at the plate with a double, two RBIs, and a run scored. At the plate, the right-hander showed loose hands into a direct path with a line-drive approach.

White Sox Elite 16U White

Luke Osbolt, 3B, York, 2028
Uncommitted. Long, projectable 6-foot-3, 170-pound frame. Right-handed hitter, batted out of the two hole and started at third base. Put together an impressive weekend at the plate, opening game one by going 2-for-2 with two runs scored, four RBIs, a walk, and a home run. Followed that up with a 2-for-3 performance in game two, adding two more runs scored. Consistently on the barrel throughout the weekend, showing the ability to impact the baseball and produce in run-scoring situations. 

Vinny Martinello, CF, Benet Academy, 2028
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-10, 165-pound frame. Left-handed hitter, batted out of the three hole and started in center field. Turned in a strong offensive weekend, going 1-for-1 with a towering three-run home run to deep right field in game one while adding two walks. Followed that up with a hard-hit single back through the middle in game two. Showed a disciplined approach with the ability to impact the baseball to all fields. 

Rutger Ronaldson, 1B/OF, Hinsdale Central, 2028
Uncommitted. Strong 5-foot-10, 186-pound frame. Left-handed hitter, batted in the cleanup spot. Finished game two 2-for-3 with three RBIs, highlighted by a double to right field and a hard-hit line-drive single to right. Showed strength through the zone with the ability to drive the baseball to the pull side while producing in key run-scoring situations. 

Nolan Inglis, SS, Naperville North, 2028
Uncommitted. Trim, high-waisted 5-foot-11, 170-pound frame. Inglis capped off a massive home run parade in Thursday’s 13-3 win, sending one out over the center field fence for a solo home run. At the plate, the right-handed hitter showcased strong hands with the ability to drive the ball with authority on a line. 

Yard Goat Black

Gunnar Larner, C, Maroa-Forsyth, 2028
Larner has a strong, mature body that is built for power, showcasing it with two doubles and two home runs over three games. He showed off this power against strong velocity and above average pitching. Larner plays an advanced catcher with multiple low 2s and one 1.98 pop time in-game. Overall Larner is a mature player with advanced skillset both at the plate and behind it.

Nic Bralts, SS, Champaign Central, 2028
Right-handed hitter with an advanced feel for the barrel this weekend, finishing at a .500 clip. Clean swing with more power to come in the future. Clean glove on the infield with rangy actions. 

Ryan Pipkins, OF, Champaign Central, 2028
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 18 in Illinois' 2028 class and No. 310 nationally. Athletic 6-foot-1, 180-pound frame. Will represent Team Illinois at the 2026 Future Games. Left-handed hitter who batted leadoff and started in center field. Made an immediate impact by leading off the opening game with a loud home run to center field before later driving a triple to the pull side. Finished the game 3-for-3 with three runs scored and two RBIs. Showed a patient approach in the box, waiting for pitches he could drive. Balanced and quiet setup with the ability to impact the baseball from gap to gap while using all fields. 

17U

2026 Illinois Braves 17U

Tanner Mast, 3B, Champaign Central, 2027
Uncommitted. Athletic, wiry 5-foot-11, 175-pound frame with room to add on strength. Mast put together a strong tournament at the plate, finishing 5-for-11 at the plate with a double, two RBIs, and two runs scored. The right-handed hitter showcased loose, rhythmic hands at the plate with a feel to drive the ball to all fields. He will be a player to keep an eye on for the Maroons during his senior season. 

Ryan Cunningham, C, Tolono Unity, 2027
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot, 185-pound frame. Left-handed hitter who occupied the three-hole throughout the weekend. Showed a strong presence behind the plate with quality receiving skills. Finished the opening game of the weekend 2-for-4 with two doubles and an RBI. Displayed loose hands and a whole-field approach at the plate, consistently staying on the baseball. Also showed a mature two-strike approach, putting the ball in play and competing deep into at-bats. 

Ty Hunt, SS, Edwardsville, 2027
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot-2, 183-pound frame. Right-handed hitter who occupied the leadoff spot. Showed smooth actions at shortstop with reliable hands and the arm strength to make plays across the diamond. Finished the opening game of the weekend 2-for-5 with a run scored. Displayed a line-drive approach at the plate, consistently working quality contact. 

Cangelosi Sparks North - Red 2027

Giovanni Rangel, 2B, Fenwick, 2027
Uncommitted. Wiry 5-foot-9, 146-pound frame with plenty of room to add on strength. In Friday night’s pool play game, the left-handed hitter showed loose hands at the plate with the ability to create length through the zone. Rangel went on to finish 1-for-2 at the plate, lining a ball into center field for an RBI single. 

Cangelosi Sparks North - White 2027

Connor Krumrei, OF, Oak Park-River Forest, 2027
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 148 in Illinois' 2027 class. Strong 6-foot, 214-pound frame. Right-handed hitter, batted in the cleanup spot. Produced loud contact throughout the tournament, opening with a triple in game one before launching a home run in game two. Added a 2-for-3 performance with two RBIs in game three and continued to consistently impact the baseball throughout the tournament. Showed strength and bat speed with the ability to do damage whenever he was in the box. 

Jack McDaniel, C, Hinsdale Central, 2027
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 144 in Illinois' 2027 class. Strong 5-foot-11, 197-pound frame. Left-handed hitter. Opened the tournament by going 1-for-2 with two RBIs, two runs scored, and a walk. Also threw out a runner from behind the plate, showing arm strength and defensive ability. Continued to show well offensively throughout the tournament, putting together two quality at-bats against 90-92 mph velocity in bracket play despite not having the results to show for it. 

Charlie Kolz, RHP, Maine South, 2027
Uncommitted. Well-proportioned 6-foot-1, 175-pound frame. Kolz showed a ton of upside on the mound in multiple looks across the week, consistently missing barrels with his fastball/curveball mix. The right-hander showed a longer arm swing from a loose ¾ release. His fastball sat 83-86 mph and played with sink, pairing well with a curveball at 73-74 mph with a spin rate in the 2,300+ rpm range. He went on to toss five innings throughout the tournament, allowing one run on two hits and five walks, with five strikeouts. An intriguing uncommitted right-handed arm for schools to follow. 

Graham Stauber, C, Fremd, 2027
Uncommitted. Lean, long-levered 6-foot-2, 180-pound frame. Stauber showcased some notable offensive and defensive tools throughout the tournament, putting together a quality weekend on both sides of the ball. At the plate, the right-handed hitter showed a longer, flatter swing through the zone with a line-drive approach. He finished 2-for-3 at the plate with three RBIs in Thursday’s 13-1 win. Defensively, Stauber showed athletic actions with quality catch-and-throw behind the dish, throwing out multiple runners in different looks. 

Zach Surowiec, OF, Downers Grove North, 2027
Uncommitted. Surowiec looked the part hitting out of the leadoff role for Sparks North White this weekend, putting together quality at-bats in multiple looks by our staff throughout the tournament. At the plate, the left-handed hitter showed a balanced, simple swing with fluid hands into a direct path. Surowiec finished 4-for-10 on the weekend with two RBIs, four runs scored, and five walks. 

CGB 2027

Collin Dieterle, C, Brown County, 2027
Uncommitted. Well-proportioned 6-foot-2, 185-pound frame with strength present throughout. Dieterle showed some intriguing bat-to-ball skills at the dish this weekend, collecting multiple barrels in multiple looks despite receiving limited results in-game. The right-handed hitter displayed a balanced setup with rhythmic, strong hands into a pull-side approach with a feel for the barrel. 

CMB Select

JP Eagon, RHP, Waukesha North, 2027
Uncommitted. Strong 6-foot-4, 215-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Got the start on the mound and worked four innings, allowing just one hit and one run while striking out eight. Relied heavily on an 80-83 mph fastball with carry through the zone, consistently attacking hitters. Mixed in a 65-66 mph curveball to keep hitters off balance and change eye levels throughout the outing. 

Decatur Commodores 17U

Peyton Delgado, RHP, Mt. Zion, 2027
Uncommitted. Compact, athletic 5-foot-7, 155-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Got the start and delivered five strong innings, allowing just one run on three hits while striking out five. Attacked hitters with an 81-84 mph fastball that showed life through the zone. Mixed in a sharp 75-76 mph slider with 2,600 rpm of spin and sweeping action, using it effectively as a put-away pitch. Competed in the strike zone and consistently kept hitters off balance. 

Carter Clark, RHP, Mount Pulaski, 2027
Uncommitted. Lean, projectable 6-foot, 150-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Got the start and worked six strong innings, allowing one unearned run on five hits while issuing no walks and striking out four. Attacked the strike zone with a 78-79 mph fastball and mixed in a 67 mph curveball to keep hitters off balance. Efficient outing with quality strike throwing and the ability to consistently work ahead in counts. 

Evan Howley, 1B, Mt. Zion, 2027
Uncommitted. Strong 6-foot, 215-pound frame. Right-handed hitter, batted out of the three hole and started at first base. Finished game one 2-for-2 with two runs scored, one RBI, two hit-by-pitches, a home run to left-center field, and a ground-ball double to left. Showed an intent to do damage with each swing, consistently impacting the baseball and producing loud contact throughout the game.

Russell Applegate, OF/RHP, Charleston, 2027
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot-2, 170-pound frame. Left-handed hitter, batted leadoff and turned in an impressive all-around tournament. Opened by going 3-for-4 with two doubles, two runs scored, and a stolen base while consistently finding the barrel throughout the tournament. Showed quality arm strength from the outfield, throwing out a runner attempting to advance to third from near the left-center field fence. Impact runner who can really move on the bases. Also came on in relief later in the tournament, tossing a scoreless inning with no hits allowed, no walks, and two strikeouts. Attacked hitters with an 86-87 mph fastball featuring arm-side run and mixed in a 67-71 mph curveball at 2,300-2,400 rpm with quality depth.

Dayton Travis, OF/1B, Glenwood, 2027
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot, 165-pound frame. Left-handed hitter, batted in the cleanup spot and started at first base. Put together a strong tournament at the plate, opening by going 3-for-3 with three RBIs and a walk. Finished game three 2-for-3 with two RBIs, one run scored, and two doubles, including a pull-side ground-rule double. Consistently on the barrel throughout the tournament with the ability to drive the baseball for extra-base damage. 

Elite Baseball Training North 17U Lutz

Colin Albano, OF, Wauconda, 2027
Uncommitted. Compact, athletic 5-foot-10, 164-pound build with more room to add on strength. Albano showed well at the plate during Saturday night’s 6-1 win, finishing 2-for-3 on the day with two doubles, two RBIs, and two runs scored. The left-handed hitter used the entire field, sending a ball into the left-center field gap for his first double, then nearly left the yard on a ball to center field. 

Hunter Bergdahl, RHP, Lakes Community, 2027
Uncommitted, currently ranked No. 225 in the state. Trim, high-waisted 6-foot-1, 173-pound frame. Bergdahl got the start on the mound in Saturday’s 6-1 win, showing some upside with his three-pitch mix that kept hitters off-balance. The right-hander operated from a controlled delivery, utilizing a medium leg lift into a drop/drive lower half, working from a compact ¾ arm action. His fastball played firm, sitting 83-85 mph for a majority of the game and topping 86 mph in the first inning. He complimented it with a 12/6 curveball at 65-67 mph with a 2,300+ rpm average spin rate, and a fading changeup at 72-73 mph. Final Line: 5 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 6 BB, 9 SO. The right-hander also collected two RBIs at the plate on a 1-for-3 day. 

Dalten Weber, 3B, Carmel Catholic, 2027
Uncommitted. Compact 5-foot-9, 170-pound frame with strength present in the lower half. Weber found two loud barrels at the plate in Saturday’s 6-1 win, The right-hander showed a rhythmic, balanced setup with loose hands that create length through the zone. Weber went on to finish 2-for-3 with two doubles and an RBI.

McHenry Cobras - Lobbins

Ian Boland, RHP, McHenry, 2027
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 240 in Illinois' 2027 class. Athletic 6-foot-1, 163-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Came on in relief and worked a scoreless inning, striking out two. Showed a loose arm with a fastball that sat 83-86 mph, spinning at 2,200-2,300 rpm. Mixed in a curveball at 71 mph with 2,400 rpm of spin, using it to freeze a hitter for a called third strike. 

Carter Thornton, C, McHenry, 2027
Uncommitted. Long-levered 6-foot-2, 155-pound frame with plenty of room to fill in strength. Thornton put together a strong day at the plate in Saturday’s 6-2 win, finishing 2-for-2 on the day with a RBI triple into the right-center field gap. 

Next Level Elite

Zeke Young, RHP, Monticello, 2027
Uncommitted, currently ranked No. 250 in Illinois' 2027 class. Athletic 5-foot-9, 150-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Athletic mover down the mound with a compact arm action. Battled through five innings, allowing three earned runs while issuing just one walk. Competed in the zone throughout the outing. Fastball sat 82-84 mph, pairing it with a breaking ball at 69-70 mph that showed quality depth. 

Matthias Rudolph, LHP, Monticello, 2027
Uncommitted, currently ranked No. 234 in the state’s 2027 class. High-waisted 6-foot-2, 170-pound frame. Rudolph put together a strong start in Saturday’s 7-3 win, inducing some swing-and-miss from hitters with his fastball/curveball combo to collect nine strikeouts in five innings of work. The left-hander worked from a controlled delivery, showing a high leg lift with tuck, landing in-line down the mound with a loose ¾ arm action. His fastball sat 83-85 mph throughout his outing with firm action out of the hand, pairing it with a curveball at 71-72 mph with a 1/7 bite. An uncommitted left-handed arm to follow. 

Rhino 17u White

Cole Schwartz, RHP, Downers Grove South, 2027
Uncommitted. Right-handed pitcher. Turned in a quality start, working five innings while allowing six hits, two runs (none earned), three walks, and striking out four. Attacked hitters with an 81-82 mph fastball featuring arm-side run. Mixed in a 76-77 mph changeup with good separation off the fastball and a 70 mph curveball to keep hitters off balance throughout the outing. 

Summit City Sluggers

Gavin Hunt, C, Angola, 2027
6-foot-0, 195-pounds. Athletic frame. Started behind the plate and hit fifth in the batting order. Offensively generated consistently hard contact, went 4-for-8 with three singles and a double in three games seen. Repeatable swing, easy knee to knee loading action. Behind the plate showed pop times of 2.18-2.20 with on bag throws. Demonstrated toughness and wanted to stay in ball games after taking a foul ball off his inner leg, walked it off and continued behind the plate. Aggressive playing mindset. 

Lucas Taylor, CF, Heritage, 2027
5-foot-11, 186 pounds. Strong, athletic frame. Started in centerfield and batted third in the lineup. Loud contact in multiple looks. Showed ability to use the whole field with doubles to the left center and right center wall and a line drive single to center. Consistent in-game performer this weekend. 

Bryson Wilson, RHP, Goshen, 2026
5-foot-9, 160 pounds. Started on the mound in two looks and came out of the bullpen in the championship game. Quick tempo on the mound, aggressive in attacking hitters, competitive mindset. Showed five pitches in-game. Fastball topped 80 mph, sat 77-79 mph. Sinker topped 78 mph, sat 76-77 mph with arm side run. Slider topped 69 mph, sat 67-68 mph. Curveball topped 68 mph, sat 66-67 mph with 12-6 shape. Changeup topped 73 mph, sat 70-72 mph with fade. 

Top Tier Central Americans

Traxton Roberts, RHP/3B, Armstrong, 2027
Kentucky commit, currently ranked No. 6 in Illinois and No. 87 in the nation. Athletic, projectable 6-foot-3, 185-pound frame with plenty of room for continued strength gains. Roberts impressed on both sides of the ball throughout the weekend, turning in the tournament's most dominant performance on the mound. The right-hander showcased some electric stuff in his Semi-final start, tossing a complete game shutout with 12 strikeouts on three hits and two walks. His fastball was 92-95 mph in the first, later settling into 89-92 mph with life out of the hand. He complimented that with a big-breaking curveball at 77-79 mph with an average spin rate of 2,400-2,600 rpm, a sharp sweeping slider at 81-83 mph with an average spin rate of 2,500+ rpm, and a heavy fading changeup at 80-83 mph. He also had a strong weekend at the plate, finding multiple pull-side barrels throughout the tournament. He lifted a ball to left field for a home run in pool play, then came up clutch in the championship and delivered a two-run double to left field to break the game open in the top of the seventh. An outstanding weekend from one of the top right-handers in the country. 

Electric look at RHP Traxton Roberts (Armstrong, 2027; @PrepBaseballIL) this afternoon.

No. 6 in IL | No. 87 in 🇺🇸

FB: 92-95 mph in 1st; settled at 89-92 mph
CB: 77-79 mph; 2,400-2,600 rpm
SL: 81-83 mph; 2,500+ rpm
CH: 80-83 mph; heavy fade

Kentucky commit.#ILOpen |… pic.twitter.com/2h0gBl7px0

— Prep Baseball Scouting (@pbtscouting) June 28, 2026

Quinten Hale, OF, Glenwood, 2027
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-11, 190-pound frame with additional room to fill in. Hale was all over the barrel throughout the tournament, finishing 8-for-18 on the weekend with three doubles, three RBIs, and seven runs scored. The right-handed hitter operated out of a balanced setup, showing strong, quick hands that create length through the zone with a flatter path. An overall impressive performance from the right-handed outfielder, who remains an uncommitted rising senior to keep an eye on. 

Jake Weeks, SS, Dunlap, 2027
Uncommitted, currently ranked No. 131 in the state. Lean, athletic 5-foot-11, 165-pound frame. Weeks showed an interesting hit and field tools throughout the weekend, showcasing a hitterish field at the plate during pool play and a steady glove up the middle. At the plate, the left-handed hitter displayed a fluid, handsy swing with a feel to use the whole field. Defensively, Weeks looked the part up the middle, moving well laterally and possessing a steady glove through multiple games. An uncommitted rising senior middle infielder to follow. 

Carter Lippens, RHP, Dunlap, 2027
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 78 in Illinois' 2027 class. Athletic 5-foot-11, 170-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Showed a smooth, repeatable delivery with a compact arm action throughout his outing. Fastball sat 84-87 mph with life out of the hand. Mixed in a slider at 75-77 mph, spinning at 2,400-2,500 rpm, with sharp late action. Worked a complete game, striking out four while allowing three runs on five hits. An intriguing 2027 arm with a clean operation and upside to continue following.

Asher Pruemer, RHP, St. Joseph-Ogden, 2026
Kaskaskia commit. Currently ranked No. 158 in Illinois' 2026 class. Lean 5-foot-11, 140-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Competitor on the mound with an up-tempo, repeatable delivery that features a crossfire look. Fastball sat 86-88 mph with life through the zone. Mixed in a sharp breaking ball at 73-75 mph, spinning at 2,700-2,800 rpm with depth. Opened the game by striking out the first five batters he faced. Worked 6.1 scoreless innings, allowing just two hits and two walks while striking out 10. 

Briggs Bucy, OF, Metamora, 2027
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot-2, 180-pound frame. Left-handed hitter who batted leadoff. Showed a smooth left-handed swing with a line-drive approach to all fields. Finished the championship game 2-for-4 with two runs scored and an RBI. Delivered the game-tying RBI with a single the other way, continuing to show the ability to stay on the baseball and use the entire field. 

Carter Freeman, RHP, Armstrong, 2027
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-10, 170-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Came on to close out three games over the weekend, totaling 2.2 scoreless innings while allowing just one hit, issuing two walks, and striking out three. In the championship game, induced a pair of weak ground balls and recorded a strikeout to secure the final three outs. Showed an up-tempo, repeatable delivery with a short, quick arm action. Attacked the zone with a heavy dose of fastballs at 84-87 mph, mixing in a curveball at 71-73 mph to keep hitters off balance. A reliable late-inning option who handled high-leverage situations throughout the weekend. 

Jackson Vanderheydt, RHP, Washington, 2027
Uncommitted. Athletic 6-foot-1, 165-pound frame. Right-handed pitcher. Got the start in the championship game and turned in a quality outing, allowing three earned runs on one hit while striking out five over five innings. Showed a simple, repeatable drop-and-drive delivery with a clean, short arm action. Fastball sat 82-84 mph with bore, missing barrels and generating ground-ball contact. Mixed in a curveball at 72-75 mph with 2,500-2,600 rpm and depth. 

White Sox Elite 17U White

Alex Claiborne, LHP, Downers Grove South, 2027
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-9, 150-pound frame. Left-handed pitcher. Got the start on the mound and turned in a dominant outing, working six innings while allowing just three hits and one run with three walks and nine strikeouts. Attacked hitters in the zone with a fastball at 79-82 mph that showed carry through the zone. Mixed in a 68-71 mph curveball with 2,400 rpm of spin and quality depth. Athletic mover on the mound with a clean operation and the ability to consistently pound the strike zone.

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