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2026 KY High School Team Previews: Volume III

February 4, 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 next handful of team previews.

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Lafayette Generals 


Region 11 | District 43
Head Coach: Kevin Goins
Twitter/X: @LHSBaseball1939

Lafayette enters the 2026 season in transition after graduating a large senior class, but the Generals still bring enough experience, arm talent, and defensive versatility to compete in one of the most challenging districts and regions in the state.

2025 Recap
The Generals finished 16–17, with their season ending in the district tournament. While the win-loss record reflected inconsistency, Lafayette faced a demanding schedule that tested younger players and laid groundwork for growth.

Key Departures
Lafayette graduated a significant group of seniors who accounted for much of last season’s production:

Replacing those innings and at-bats will be a major storyline this spring.

Projected Pitching Staff
The Generals return limited varsity innings but promising arms that made the most of their opportunities in 2025:

  • Spencer Fuqua, SR, RHP – Veteran arm expected to lead the staff.
  • Nathan McKinney, JR, RHP/OF – Athletic right-hander who brings upside and versatility.
  • Jackson Cox, JR, RHP/OF – Developing arm who will be leaned on for innings.
  • Caden Herron, SR, RHP/MIF – Two-way contributor capable of providing depth on the mound.
  • Micah Joy, SR, RHP/C/3B – Physical presence who can impact games in multiple roles.

Although Lafayette lost 168 of 223 innings from last season, the returning pitchers combined to go 7–2 in limited action, giving the staff reason for optimism.

Projected Lineup
Several positions remain fluid, but the Generals expect to lean on senior leadership and defensive stability:

C: Colin Darragh

INF: Caden Herron

INF: Micah Joy

INF: Jacob Carpenter

OF: Ryland Messer

OF: Nathan McKinney

OF: Tyler Collins

Top Returning Players

  • Colin Darragh, SR, C/2B/3B – Rose-Hulman commit; versatile defender with leadership qualities.
  • Caden Herron, SR, RHP/MIF – Senior leader who will play a key role on both sides of the ball.
  • Micah Joy, SR, RHP/C/3B – Power-bodied athlete capable of handling multiple defensive roles.
  • Spencer Fuqua, SR, RHP – Expected to anchor the rotation with experience and competitiveness.
  • Nathan McKinney, JR, RHP/OF – One of the more intriguing underclassmen; athletic with upside.

Newcomers / Players to Watch

  • Maverick Kendall, SR, MIF – Could provide stability and depth in the infield.
  • David Wimpy, SR, RHP/INF – Adds pitching and positional flexibility.
  • Gibson Lowe, SR, C/1B – Veteran presence behind the plate and at first base.
  • Jackson Cox, JR, RHP/OF – Developing arm who could take on a larger role.

Team Identity & Strengths
Lafayette’s identity will be shaped by senior leadership, defense, and timely hitting. With 11 seniors on the roster, the Generals will rely on experience to navigate a tough schedule. Solid defensive play and efficient pitching will be critical as younger arms step into expanded roles.

Outlook for 2026
With expectations set at three, Lafayette remains a bit of an unknown at the varsity level but possesses enough talent and maturity to be competitive in the 43rd District and Region 11. How quickly the pitching staff settles in will largely determine the ceiling for this group.

Schedule Highlights

  • 3/19 @ Trinity
  • 3/21 @ Frederick Douglass
  • 3/31 @ LCA
  • 4/1 vs LCA
  • 4/16 @ Sayre
  • 4/21 vs Lexington Catholic
  • 4/22 @ Lexington Catholic
  • 5/5 vs Madison Central
  • 5/6 vs Whitley County
  • 5/8 vs Henry Clay
  • 5/9 vs Campbell County

Campbell County Camels 


Region 10 | District 37
Head Coach: Scott Schweitzer
Twitter/X: @CamelsBaseball

Campbell County enters the 2026 season with a clear identity built around premium arms and strength up the middle. Coming off a deep postseason run, the Camels again project as a dangerous matchup-driven team capable of beating anyone when the pitching aligns.

2025 Recap
The Camels finished 25–11, advancing to the regional semifinals. Campbell County consistently leaned on strong starting pitching and defensive reliability to navigate a competitive Region 10 slate.

Key Departures

While those losses leave holes offensively, the Camels return high-end pitching talent that gives them a strong foundation.

Projected Pitching Staff
Pitching is the clear strength of this Campbell County roster:

  • Tyler Schumacher, JR, RHP/SS – One of the premier arms in the state; fastball up to 94 mph with a polished kick-change. Marshall University commit and unquestioned ace.
  • Gavin Kramer, SO, RHP/1B – Wabash Valley commit; power arm with high upside as off-speed command continues to develop.
  • Lucas Anthrop – Expected to provide valuable innings as part of the rotation or bullpen.

The Camels will prioritize innings management and matchup-based deployment, especially in district and postseason play.

Projected Lineup

SS: Tyler Schumacher

1B: Gavin Kramer

2B: Trip Mercurio

3B: Gavin Richardson

C: Camden Tiemeier

OF: TBD

OF: TBD

OF: TBD

Several outfield spots remain open, creating competition throughout the spring.

Top Returning Players

  • Tyler Schumacher, JR, SS/P – Electric arm with frontline stuff; two-way impact player who sets the tone for the program.
  • Gavin Kramer, SO, 1B/P – Physical presence with power potential and high ceiling on the mound.
  • Camden Tiemeier, JR, C – Recently committed to Morehead State; continues to develop as a leader behind the plate.

Newcomers / Players to Watch

  • Cade Anthrop, FR, OF – Athletic outfielder who will push for everyday at-bats and bring speed and versatility to the lineup.

Team Identity & Strengths
Campbell County will again be elite on the mound and strong up the middle. While offensive depth may not match previous seasons, the Camels believe their pitching can carry them if they manufacture runs and play clean defense.

Outlook for 2026
With expectations set at four, Campbell County profiles as a postseason threat. If the offense finds consistency, the Camels have the pitching to make another deep regional run.

Harrison County Breds 


Region 10 | District 38
Head Coach: Mac Whitaker

Harrison County enters the season as one of the most cohesive and battle-tested teams in Region 10 after a dominant regular season a year ago. Built around selflessness, depth, and physicality, the Breds again expect to be a factor deep into the postseason.

2025 Recap
The Breds posted a 34–5 record, one of the best marks in the state, showcasing consistency, depth, and a winning culture throughout the spring.

Key Departures

Despite those losses, Harrison County returns significant talent and lineup flexibility.

Projected Pitching Staff
The Breds feature multiple arms capable of handling meaningful innings:

  • Cooper Slade, INF/P – Two-way contributor expected to anchor the staff.
  • Simon Jenkins, RHP – Reliable arm with experience.
  • Sawyer Cracraft, RHP – Adds depth and matchup flexibility.
  • Dray Roberts, RHP – Power arm capable of impacting games in big moments.

Projected Lineup

INF: Cooper Slade

SS: Blake Green

1B: Jordan Persinger

OF: Donovan Walker

3B/C: BJ Napier

3B/C: Ian Hopkins

OF: Brock Coy

Harrison County’s lineup is built on depth rather than reliance on a single bat.

Top Returning Players

  • Cooper Slade, INF/P – Leader on both sides of the ball with physical tools.
  • Blake Green, SS – Defensive anchor up the middle.
  • Jordan Persinger, 1B – Run producer with size and presence.
  • Donovan Walker, OF – Athletic outfielder who impacts the game defensively and on the bases.
  • BJ Napier, 3B/C – Versatile defender with toughness.
  • Ian Hopkins, 3B/C – Young talent with upside and physical projection.

Newcomers / Players to Watch

  • Brock Coy, ‘28, OF/P – Underclassman with athleticism and arm strength.
  • Ian Hopkins, ‘29, 3B/C – Advanced defensive skill set for his age.

Team Identity & Strengths
Harrison County prides itself on being a true team. The Breds emphasize selflessness, depth, and playing for each other, with no concern for individual credit. That culture has translated into sustained success.

Outlook for 2026
With expectations set at four, Harrison County again projects as a regional contender. Their depth and chemistry give them a high floor, and their tournament-tested mindset makes them dangerous come postseason play.

Schedule Notes
Harrison County will host multiple in-season tournaments featuring strong competition, often including several state tournament-level programs.

George Rogers Clark Cardinals 


Region 10 | District 40
Head Coach: Eddie Brooks
Twitter/X: @GRCcardsBSB

GRC enters the 2026 season knowing its identity will be built on the mound. After a solid postseason run a year ago, the Cardinals will again rely heavily on pitching depth as they navigate one of the tougher districts in the state.

2025 Recap
The Cardinals finished 23–14, advancing to the Region 10 semifinals before their season came to an end. Pitching consistency was a key factor throughout the spring.

Key Departures

GRC graduated a large senior class and lost a few transfers, including:

Those losses leave production to be replaced on both sides of the ball.

Pitching Outlook
Pitching will again be the backbone of this Cardinals club:

  • Luke Fugate, RHP – 10 IP, 12 K, 2.10 ERA

This group gives GRC multiple reliable options to mix and match throughout the season.

Offensive Contributors

Replacing graduated bats will be a key storyline early in the year.

Team Identity
The Cardinals will lean heavily on their pitching staff, looking to keep games close and manufacture offense when needed.

Outlook
With expectations set at three, GRC has the arms to stay competitive. Offensive consistency will determine how high the ceiling goes.

Notable Matchups

  • Montgomery County (April 20 & 23)
  • Campbell County (March 31 & April 9)
  • Harrison County (April 15)

Corbin Redhounds 


Region 13 | District 50
Head Coach: Cody Philpot
Twitter/X: @CorbinHounds

Corbin returns to the field with confidence after a championship-level run a season ago, bringing back athleticism, leadership, and postseason experience.

2025 Recap
The Redhounds finished 20–18, captured the Region 13 Championship, and advanced to the Sweet 16, where their run ended against PRP.

Key Departures
Corbin graduated several impact seniors, including:

Key Returners

  • Cam Estep, JR, SS/RHP – EKU commit; elite athlete who continues to trend upward offensively.
  • Clay Botner, JR, INF – Steady defensive presence and team leader; expected to log more innings on the mound.
  • Jaden Broughton, JR, 1B/LHP – Healthier arm entering 2026; upside on the mound.
  • Trey Person, SO, OF – Athletic outfielder with emerging power.
  • Levi Brock, SO, C – Took over behind the plate last season and continues to develop physically.

Team Identity
Corbin thrives on athleticism, defense, and timely pitching, with an emphasis on growth from a talented underclass core.

Outlook
With expectations at three, Corbin has the pieces to remain a postseason factor and defend its regional standing.

Schedule Highlights

  • Eli Hill Invitational (May 8–9) – Featuring Hazard, Madison Central, South Warren, and Somerset
  • Whitley County (April 27–28)

Russell County Lakers  


Region 4 | District 16
Head Coach: David Rexroat

Russell County returns experienced arms and postseason pedigree after a deep 2A run, making them one of the more dangerous pitching-led teams in their region.

2025 Recap
The Lakers posted a 24–10 record, advancing to the 2A State Final Four before injuries halted their run.

Key Departures

Pitching Strength
Russell County’s identity starts on the mound:

  • Blane Melton, SR, RHP – 6’3 right-hander, tops at 87 mph.
  • Aiden Brumley, SR, RHP – Excellent changeup, up to 84 mph.
  • Walker Stephens, JR, RHP/INF – 6’4 righty who adds versatility.

Returning Starters

  • Jace Scaggs, JR, SS – Key middle-infield piece.
  • Ben Kemp, SR, OF
  • Mason Jasper, SR, OF
  • Evan Hutchison & Riley Taylor – Depth behind the plate and on the mound.

Team Identity
The Lakers will rely on experienced pitching, team speed, and solid defense to control games.

Outlook
With expectations at three, Russell County has the arms and experience to make another deep postseason push.

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