OF/1B Anthony Chavez (Mount Carmel, 2026) has long been a staff favorite, consistently proving to be one of the top left-handed bats in the entire state. He initially broke out as a sophomore and helped anchor a talented Mount Carmel lineup, and he’s done nothing but continue to hit since then. 

The left-handed hitter has big power in his bat and there’s still more to come, peaking upwards of 107 mph for his EV while still holding room to add strength to his 6-foot-3, 215-pound frame. To make him even more intriguing, he is an above-average runner for his size with a 6.88 in the 60, and he continues to make strides as an outfielder. 

Chavez made a loud statement this past summer at our Senior Future Games, homering and seemingly making hard contact just about every at-bat. Now entering his senior year, look for him to continue to be a big producer at the plate and help lead Mount Carmel to a hopeful run towards Joliet. 

Our Q&A 

Prep Baseball: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Anthony: For me, my expectations weren’t too high at first. I had hopes of playing Division I, but going into the summer I really thought JUCO was going to be the best route for me. I was mainly looking for a place where I could develop as a player. More than anything, I wanted to find a program that felt like family and somewhere I could see myself growing. 

PB: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?

A: Not at all. I was willing to play anywhere, no matter the distance. I just wanted the chance to compete and play at the next level.

PB: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Where did the school you committed to first see you play?

A: The recruiting process started off a little slow. I had some talks during high school and early in the summer, but it really started to pick up after the Future Games at the end of the summer. That’s when things really started moving.

PB: What do you like most about the program you chose, and what were the key factors in making your decision?

A: For me, it felt like family right away. I loved the campus, and the coaches were great. Once I got there, I just knew it was the right spot for me.

PB: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?

A: Northern Illinois, Western Kentucky and Michigan.

PB: Who is the best player you have faced in your state? What about them makes for a tough opponent?

A: Jack Slightom. I faced him over the offseason and he’s just a super tough guy to face. I would also say Paddy Roth, both of them have really good stuff and just give me some trouble every time I face them. 

PB: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college-caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?

A: I think sophomore year is where I realized I could play at the next level if I really locked in. I always took my game seriously but it really clicked sophomore year. 

PB: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?

A: I would say just keep working. Everyone’s path is different. Don’t worry about anyone else but yourself. You have to realize this sport is mostly mental and makes you question a lot about yourself, so you have to have a strong mentality. Just keep working to be able to be the best version of yourself and don’t let anyone outwork you. 

PB: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?

A: I would say hitting a home run at Future Games. That moment was special to me to be able to do that in front of all the coaches and show them what I can do. 

PB: Preview your high school team's season for us. How do you feel your team will be?

A: We look really good and pretty much everyone is returning. It’s going to be a fun year and I think we have a chance to do something big this year.    

PB: How did the Future Games and the Illinois State Games affect your recruitment process? Did you receive more attention following the events?

A: Future Games was huge for me. That’s where I got most of my talks and offers. It helped a lot, and getting the chance to perform in front of so many college coaches made a big difference in my recruitment.

PB: If you could steal any tool or quality from another player in the state, what would it be and who would it be from?

A: If I could steal any tool it would be Patrick Connors’ fielding. I think adding that part to my game from an outfield standpoint would be huge, the way he tracks balls is unreal. 

PB: Who is the next talented young player to keep an eye on out of your high school or travel program?

A: I would say my brother Adrian Chavez. He is a freshman at Mount Carmel and I know he has a lot of potential to do some good things. 

PB: Did Prep Baseball assist in your recruiting? Whether it be through a showcase, tournament coverage, tweets, etc? If yes, please explain. 

A: Yeah, for sure. The Future Games were the biggest part, but all the coverage and posts from Prep Baseball helped a lot too. It really got my name out there, and I’m very grateful for that.

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