2026 KY High School Team Previews: Volume I

January 28, 2026
Wil Hannah | Jamie Tessoff
KY Assistant Director | KY Scouting Director

Opening day for the KHSAA baseball season is quickly approaching and our staff has shifted focus to preparing for the spring! We’ve submitted a preseason questionnaire to high school head coaches across the state. Their responses have been flooding in, and we’re using the detailed insight they’ve provided in our team-by-team preseason analysis! Read along for our first handful of team previews.

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Franklin-Simpson Wildcats

Region 4 | District 13

Head Coach: Matthew Wilhite

The Franklin-Simpson Wildcats enter the 2026 high school baseball season looking to turn hard-earned experience into tangible results. After a season defined by youth and growing pains, this Wildcats group believes the foundation has been laid for a step forward.

2025 Recap
Franklin-Simpson finished the 2025 campaign with a 22–14 overall record, advancing to the Region 4 Tournament before falling in the first round to Greenwood. While the early exit stung, the season served as a critical development year, as the Wildcats relied heavily on underclassmen throughout the lineup.

Key Departures
The Wildcats will need to replace two important pieces from last year’s roster:

Layne Alford: In his Senior campaign, Alford hit .310 across 84 ABs, while collecting 26 hits with seven extra base hits on the year.
Griffin Banton – The Campbellsville commit was one of the key pieces of the 2025 lineup. As he collected 35 hits, 12 extra base-hits along with a .340 avg.

Both provided leadership and production, leaving opportunities for returning players to step into larger roles.

Top Returning Players

Brady Delk, SS, Senior – A veteran presence in the middle of the field, Delk anchors the infield and provides stability defensively while bringing experience to the lineup. In Delks Junior season campaign he lead the team batting .404 while driving in 30 runs, the smooth moving SS comes into his senior season has a weapon in the box along with in the infield for the wildcats

Boy Blanckenberg, LHP, Junior – A key arm returning to the staff, Blankenberg gives Franklin-Simpson a reliable left-handed option with upside as he continues to mature. Returning 69.0 IP for the Wildcats, Blankenberg rolls into 2026 as a key piece on the mound.

Team Strengths
Franklin-Simpson was an extremely young and inexperienced team a season ago, featuring 12 sophomores in key roles. That experience is expected to pay dividends in 2026, as the Wildcats now bring back a more seasoned roster that understands the demands of varsity competition. The growth and confidence gained from last season should translate into improved consistency across the board.

Outlook for 2026
With another year of development and a core group that has already been tested, Franklin-Simpson enters the spring with optimism. If the returning players take the next step and younger contributors continue to develop, the Wildcats have the pieces in place to be more competitive within District 13 and make noise in Region 4.

Glasgow Scotties

Region 4 | District 15
Head Coach: Camerin Garmon
Twitter/X: @GHSbaseballers

The Glasgow Scotties enter the 2026 season with a more experienced roster and optimism built around continuity. With seven returning starters and key pieces back on both sides of the ball, Glasgow believes it has the foundation to take a step forward within a competitive Region 4 landscape.

2025 Recap
Glasgow finished the 2025 campaign with an 8–21 record, a season marked by learning moments and development. While the win-loss column did not reflect consistent success, the Scotties gained valuable experience that is expected to translate into improved performance this spring.

Key Departures

Josiah Driver – Graduated senior and key contributor from the 2025 roster.

Projected Pitching Staff
The Scotties will rely on a group of arms with varsity experience:

Carter Hodges, RHP, 2026

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">‘26 Carter Hodges (<a href="https://twitter.com/Carter_Hodges30?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Carter_Hodges30</a>)<a href="https://twitter.com/GHSbaseballers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GHSbaseballers</a> 6’3” 176lbs RHP/OF Top EV: 94.0mph Top distance: 328ft<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KYSG25?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KYSG25</a> || <a href="https://twitter.com/prepbaseball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@prepbaseball</a> <a href="https://t.co/vrfXBDKa4R">pic.twitter.com/vrfXBDKa4R</a>— Prep Baseball Kentucky (@PrepbaseballKY) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrepbaseballKY/status/1957812320630890899?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Peyton Lemily, RHP
Garett Shields, RHP
Steven Garrett, RHP

Hodges leads the staff as a proven front-line option, with the remaining arms providing depth and flexibility throughout the season.

Projected Starting Lineup
C: Ryder Haynes

1B: Keaton Haynes

2B: Garett Shields

3B: Steven Garrett

SS: Hudson Gumm

LF: JP Pitcock

CF: Landon Martin

RF: Huston Haynes

DH: Peyton Lemily

Top Returning Players

Carter Hodges, P/OF, 2026 – A Wabash Valley commit, Hodges anchors the pitching staff and brings athleticism to the outfield when not on the mound.
Hudson Gumm, SS/CF, 2026 – A three-year starter and the Scotties’ offensive leader from 2025, hitting .337 with 17 stolen bases, providing speed and consistency at the top of the order.

Top Newcomers

Keaton Haynes, 1B/P, 2027 – A promising underclassman with positional versatility who is expected to make an immediate impact both offensively and on the mound.

Team Strengths
Experience will be a defining strength for Glasgow in 2026, as the Scotties return seven starters from last season. That continuity should allow the group to play with more confidence and consistency, particularly in tight district and region matchups.

Outlook for 2026
With internal expectations set at three and no known absences entering the year, Glasgow is focused on steady improvement and competitiveness. If the returning core continues to develop and the pitching staff finds consistency, the Scotties have the pieces to make progress within Region 4.

Schedule Notes

March 21: vs. Franklin-Simpson
March 30 & April 23: vs. Greenwood
April 13: vs. Bowling Green
April 16 & May 9: vs. Campbellsville
April 25: vs. Taylor County
April 30: vs. South Warren

Frankfort Panthers

Region 11 | District 41
Head Coach: Travis McConathy
Twitter/X: @CoachMcConathy

The Frankfort Panthers enter the 2026 season with optimism built around returning pitching experience and roster versatility. After a solid 2025 campaign that resulted in a district championship, Frankfort looks poised to remain competitive within Region 11 as younger contributors step into expanded roles.

2025 Recap
Frankfort finished the 2025 season with a 15–11 record, capturing the 41st District Championship. The Panthers showed resilience throughout the year and proved capable of winning meaningful games late in the season, setting a positive tone heading into 2026.

Key Departures
Frankfort will need to replace several seniors from last year’s roster:

Their departures open the door for a younger core to establish itself across the lineup and pitching staff.

Projected Pitching Staff
Pitching has the potential to be a major strength for the Panthers, with multiple arms returning after gaining varsity experience a season ago:

Will Beshear, RHP, Junior

Ben Peach, RHP
Gavin Proffitt, RHP
Bryan Starkey, RHP
Caillou Lemaster, RHP

Beshear headlines the group and is expected to lead the staff, while the depth behind him provides flexibility throughout the season.

Top Returning Players

Will Beshear, P/OF/CINF – A versatile junior who anchors the pitching staff and brings athleticism to multiple positions.
Ben Peach, UTL/P – A valuable utility piece capable of contributing both on the mound and throughout the field.
Noah Fox, C/OF – Provides defensive versatility with the ability to contribute offensively.
Gavin Proffitt, UTL/P – Another multi-positional contributor who strengthens overall roster depth.

Top Newcomers

Grant Jacobs, OF – An athletic outfielder expected to compete for at-bats early.
Bryan Starkey, OF/1B/P – A versatile piece with the ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball.
Sam Peach, MINF/P – Middle-infield option who also adds depth on the mound.
Caillou Lemaster, INF/P – A two-way newcomer who adds depth to both the infield and pitching staff.

Team Strengths
Pitching projects as a potential calling card for Frankfort in 2026. With multiple arms returning and additional depth available, the Panthers believe they can consistently compete on the mound, led by junior Will Beshear and a group of pitchers who gained meaningful experience last season.

Outlook for 2026
With internal expectations set at two and no known absences entering the year, Frankfort’s focus is on steady growth and remaining competitive within the district. If the pitching staff performs as anticipated and the lineup develops around its returning core, the Panthers have the ingredients to make another postseason push.

Schedule Notes

March 23–25: All “A” Classic at Legends Field
April 13–14: District games vs. Franklin County
April 20–21: District games vs. Western Hills
April 27–28: District games vs. Great Crossing
Late May: 41st District Tournament

St. Mary Vikings

Region 1 | District 2
Head Coach: Chris Haas
Twitter/X: @vikings_st

The St. Mary Vikings enter the 2026 season with a balanced mix of experienced leadership and emerging young talent. Known for playing fundamentally sound baseball, St. Mary looks to build on last season’s success while continuing to develop the next wave of contributors within the program.

2025 Recap
St. Mary finished the 2025 campaign with a 15–8 record, consistently competing within District 2 and Region 1. The Vikings’ ability to execute the game at a high level allowed them to remain competitive throughout the season.

Key Departures
St. Mary will need to replace two key seniors from last year’s roster:

Brett Haas
Luke Sims

Both departures open opportunities for younger players to step into larger roles across the lineup and pitching staff.

Projected Pitching Staff
The Vikings return a group of arms with varsity experience and upside:

Ashton Spurr, LHP, 2026

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">‘26 Ashton Spurr (<a href="https://twitter.com/AshtonSpurr24?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AshtonSpurr24</a>)<a href="https://twitter.com/vikings_st?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vikings_st</a><a href="https://twitter.com/WKU_Baseball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WKU_Baseball</a> commit 6’2” 160lbs LHP<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBFG24?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBFG24</a> participant FB: 83-85 || 2356 SR SL: 76-78 || 2042 SR CH: 75-78 || 2013 SR + sharp break<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KYSG25?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KYSG25</a> || <a href="https://twitter.com/prepbaseball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@prepbaseball</a> <a href="https://t.co/KabYkM8Kin">pic.twitter.com/KabYkM8Kin</a>— Prep Baseball Kentucky (@PrepbaseballKY) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrepbaseballKY/status/1958175857945559517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Jake Haas, RHP, 2026
Andrew Puckett, RHP, 2028

Kaden Durbin, RHP, 2028
JW Pittman, RHP
Connor Simmons, RHP

This staff provides St. Mary with flexibility and depth as the season progresses.

Top Returning Players

Ashton Spurr, LHP, 2026 – A key arm returning to lead the pitching staff with the ability to control games from the left side.
Jake Morris, CF, 2026 – An athletic outfielder who impacts the game defensively and provides speed at the top of the lineup.
Jake Haas, IF/P/C, 2026 – A versatile contributor capable of helping in multiple roles.
Andrew Puckett, C/P/IF, 2028 – A young but experienced piece who adds value on both sides of the ball.
Kaden Durbin, C/P, 2028 – Another underclass contributor expected to continue developing at the varsity level.

Top Newcomers

Connor Simmons, P/IF, 2029 – A young arm with upside entering the program.
Nate Riley, IF, 2028 – A developing infielder who adds depth.
Blake Haas, 3B/P/C, 2031 – A long-term prospect with versatility across the diamond.
Avery Puckett, P/IF, 2031 – A young two-way player to watch as he progresses.

Team Strengths
St. Mary is a fundamentally sound team with strong senior leadership complemented by promising young talent. The program’s emphasis on execution and development continues to be a defining trait as the Vikings prepare for another competitive season.

Outlook for 2026
With internal expectations set at three and no known absences entering the season, St. Mary looks to remain competitive within District 2. Continued development from younger players, paired with steady leadership from returning veterans, will be key to the Vikings’ success.

Schedule Notes

April 28 & April 30: District games vs. Paducah Tilghman
May 5 & May 7: District games vs. McCracken County

Trigg County Wildcats

Region 2 | District 5
Head Coach: Will Alexander
Twitter/X: @Trigg_Baseball

The Trigg County Wildcats enter the 2026 season with confidence rooted in depth, toughness, and a belief that they can compete with anyone on their schedule. With a young roster that has already logged significant varsity experience, Trigg County continues to build toward sustained success within Region 2.

2025 Recap
Trigg County finished the 2025 campaign with a 13–12 record, advancing to the Region 2 Semifinals. The Wildcats proved capable of winning postseason games and gained valuable experience in meaningful situations, setting the stage for continued growth this spring.

Key Departures
The Wildcats graduated several contributors from last year’s roster:

Aidon Butts
Chase Hampton
AJ Bell
Haydon Reynolds
Slaton Carter
Nathan Simmons

Their departures open the door for a younger core to take on expanded roles across the field.

Projected Pitching Staff
Rather than relying on a single frontline arm, Trigg County will feature a more balanced and developed pitching staff:

Ty Gootee, LHP

Grayson McKee, RHP
Jon Humphries, RHP
Aaden Allen, RHP
Bentley Reynolds, RHP

This group gives the Wildcats flexibility and matchup options as the season progresses.

Projected Starting Lineup
Trigg County returns several players capable of filling multiple roles:

Bentley Reynolds
Aaden Allen
Jon Humphries
James Garnett
Grayson McKee
Cannon Scott
Carson Kline
Ty Gootee
Brody Calhoun

Positional flexibility will allow the Wildcats to mix and match based on matchups.

Top Returning Players

Aaden Allen, SS/RHP, 2028 – A natural athlete and everyday shortstop for the past two seasons, Allen is a .300+ hitter with emerging power. A plus defender at shortstop, his pitching upside continues to grow as he develops physically.
Ty Gootee, LHP/1B/OF, 2028 – A starting left-hander with a 6’1” frame that is still filling out. Velocity is trending upward as strength and mechanics improve, while his competitive edge and presence on the mound set the tone for the staff.
Bentley Reynolds, UTL/RHP, 2027 – A .300 hitter last season and the definition of a true ballplayer. Reynolds can play nearly anywhere on the field, brings grit and energy nightly, and profiles as an ideal leadoff-type with added pop and strong baserunning instincts.

Team Strengths
Trigg County prides itself on being a scrappy, fundamentally sound group that believes it can compete with any opponent. While the roster is young—with only two seniors—the junior and sophomore classes have already gained extensive varsity experience. The pitching staff may not be headlined by a single dominant “horse,” but it is deeper and more well-rounded than in recent seasons. The Wildcats emphasize developing complete baseball players by building on individual strengths while steadily improving weaker areas.

Outlook for 2026
With internal expectations set at two and no known absences entering the season, Trigg County is focused on continued development and competitiveness. As the young core continues to mature and the pitching depth proves itself, the Wildcats have the makeup of a team capable of another postseason run in Region 2.

Schedule Notes

March 24: at Lyon County
March 26: vs. Lyon County
March 28: vs. Marshall County
March 28: vs. Massac County (IL)

Prestonsburg Blackcats

Region 15 | District 58
Head Coach: Bryce Tucker
Twitter/X: @PburgHSBSB

The Prestonsburg Blackcats enter the 2026 season in a developmental phase, leaning on youth, athleticism, and defense as they work to establish their identity. With a roster made up largely of multi-sport athletes and underclassmen, Prestonsburg understands growth will be the theme early, with an eye toward building momentum as the season progresses.

2025 Recap
Prestonsburg finished the 2025 campaign with a 10–20 record, falling short of a berth in the Region 15 Tournament. Despite the results, the Blackcats gained valuable experience that will shape a younger roster heading into 2026.

Key Departures
Prestonsburg will need to replace two key contributors from last season:

Kaden Allen, RHP – Now playing at Alice Lloyd College
Brayden Tussey, 2B

Their departures create immediate opportunities for younger players to step into everyday roles.

Projected Pitching Staff
The Blackcats will feature a young but intriguing group of arms:

Luke Hall, RHP, 2027
Brody Napier, RHP, 2027
Cruiz Clark, RHP, 2029
Sam Hyden, RHP, 2029
Christian Click, RHP, 2029 (limited due to injury)

This staff will be asked to pound the zone and focus on getting outs rather than overpowering hitters.

Projected Starting Lineup
Prestonsburg’s lineup will be shaped largely by underclassmen:

2026: Brady Allen, Logan Stumbo, Aaron Jarrell
2027: Barrett Hunter, Luke Hall, Brody Napier, AJ Johnson, Colin Hatfield
2029: Sam Hyden, Cruiz Clark, Christian Click

Defensive versatility will be a priority as the Blackcats determine their best combination.

Top Returning Players

Barrett Hunter, CF, 2027 – One of the top players in the region and widely regarded as the best defender in the area. A consistent left-handed hitter who stole 34 bases as a freshman, Hunter sets the tone with speed, defense, and leadership.
Luke Hall, MIF/RHP, 2027 – A well-rounded player with a polished left-handed swing and solid defensive ability. Effective on the mound when commanding the zone, Hall possesses significant upside as he continues to develop.

Top Newcomers

Cruiz Clark, C/RHP, 2029 – A versatile young player who will serve as the primary catcher while also logging innings on the mound. Still growing, but with a strong foundation and pro baseball bloodlines.
Sam Hyden, UTL/RHP, 2029 – A large, athletic-bodied freshman with power potential and the ability to contribute on the mound as he develops physically.
Christian Click, UTL, 2029 – A high-upside athlete who would be an everyday impact player, but is expected to miss significant—if not all—of the season due to an ACL/MCL injury suffered during football.

Team Strengths
Prestonsburg will be a young group getting its feet wet early, with limited preseason time due to a roster full of three-sport athletes. Defense is expected to be a strength once again, while the team’s approach will focus on pounding the strike zone, putting the ball in play, and creating offense by getting on base. Without overwhelming power or velocity, execution and identity will be critical.

Outlook for 2026
With internal expectations set at three, the Blackcats are focused on development and establishing consistency. As the young roster gains experience and begins to mesh, Prestonsburg has the potential to become increasingly competitive late in the season.

Schedule Notes

March 7: Home scrimmages vs. Ashland and Union (VA)
March 14: Scrimmage vs. Boyd County
March 20–21: Greenwood Hot Rods Tournament (BG Ballpark)
Early April: Georgia trip vs. nationally ranked Walton and Buford
April 17–18: Tribe Classic in Kingsport (Dobyns-Bennett / Science Hill)
April 25: Home triangle vs. Douglass and Wheelersburg (OH)
May 1–2: Prestonsburg Invitational (Beechwood, Great Crossing, Chilhowie (VA), Pikeville, Prestonsburg)