2026 KY High School Team Previews: Volume IX

March 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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Adair County Indians

Region 5 | District 20
Head Coach: Ryan McQueary

Adair County enters the season coming off a Top 25 finish a year ago, returning impact pieces on both sides of the ball while looking to blend youth with proven varsity production.

2025 Recap
Finished 23–11, falling in a tight 20th District Final (4–3) to Taylor County before bowing out in the 5th Region Tournament to Nelson County.

Returning Leaders

Alex Martin, C, 2027: One of the top catchers in the state with a plus arm, power in the bat, and above-average speed. A grinder with real upside who should make noise this spring.

Jasper Kemp, RHP, 2027: High-ceiling arm and one of the top pitchers in the region. After battling injuries last season, Kemp returns healthy with an upper-80s fastball, three-pitch mix, and command from a 6’2” frame.

Bryce Russell, MI, 2026: Middle-of-the-order bat and one of the region’s top overall players. Compact, powerful swing coming off a strong junior campaign.

Additional Impact Pieces

Dax Conn, MI, 2027 – Emerged late last season and will be leaned on heavily
Jackson Sinclair, OF, 2028 – Young outfielder who delivered in big moments and gained valuable experience
Tristen Stotts, OF – Adds athleticism and depth to the lineup
Brayden Fitzgerald – Part of a returning group expected to contribute immediately

Team Identity
The Indians’ identity is built around elite catching, frontline pitching, and bats with real punch. Experience at key positions gives Adair County a strong foundation, while younger pieces will be asked to mature quickly.

Outlook
Expectation level is three. If the younger lineup spots develop fast and pitching health holds, Adair County has the makeup to push deep into district and regional play.

Schedule Highlight
District play will be the focal point, as Adair County once again navigates one of the toughest districts in the state, providing postseason-level tests throughout the year.

North Bullitt Eagles

Region 6 | District 23
Head Coach: Brian Wise
Twitter/X: @KyNbhs

The North Bullitt Eagles enter the 2026 season as a veteran-laden squad with a mix of established stars and emerging talent. Returning multiple four-year starters, including key impact players at shortstop, center field, and first base, the Eagles look to compete for both district and regional success while continuing to develop a deep pitching staff.

2025 Recap
North Bullitt finished the 2025 campaign with a 27–9 record, advancing to the second round of the Super Regional. The Eagles’ combination of athleticism, speed, and disciplined approach allowed them to compete at a high level throughout the season, setting the stage for another competitive 2026 run.

Key Departures

Ethan Hedges, SP
Braxton Sievert, SP
Brayden Lueke, C (KSU)
Braylen Duncan, 2B (KSU)
Andrew Day, RHP/OF (Campbellsville)

The Eagles will look to younger contributors and returning veterans to fill these gaps on the mound and in the lineup.

Projected Pitching Staff

Caden Dorsey, RHP, SR – 6–1 with a 1.87 ERA last season; uncommitted but leads the staff as a senior ace.
Grayson Phillips, LHP, SO – 1–0 with a 1.50 ERA in 14 innings last season; expected to be in the rotation full time.
Jeremiah Green, RHP/2B, SR – Butler transfer, will compete for rotation and bullpen innings.
Hunter Wilson, SO – Competing for rotation and relief innings.

Additional competition includes Brady Egnor (SR, 2–0, 3.71 ERA), Braxton Ballman (SR), and Hunter Whitaker (SR). North Bullitt’s pitching staff has established anchors in Dorsey and Phillips, but the team will rely on depth to round out a full rotation and bullpen.

Projected Starting Lineup

1B: Luke Deitchman, JR – .362 average, 3 HR, 32 RBIs; has started at first since 8th grade.

2B: TBD – Rotation between Hunter Wilson, Jeremiah Green, and others.

SS: Rowen Burton, SR (Bellarmine signee) – .408 average, 31 stolen bases; elite defensive presence.

3B: Lucas Oliver

C: Cody Pendleton, SR (Kentucky Wesleyan signee) – .340 average, 16 stolen bases; four-year starter.

CF: Dylan Hornback, SR (EKU signee) – .382 average, 5 HR, 7 doubles, 15 stolen bases.

LF: TBD

RF: TBD

DH: TBD

Top Returning Players

Rowen Burton, SS, SR (Bellarmine signee) – One of the best in the state both offensively and defensively.
Dylan Hornback, CF, SR (EKU signee) – Dynamic center fielder with power, speed, and offensive consistency.
Luke Deitchman, 1B, JR – Prolific hitter on pace to break school records; steady offensive presence.
Cody Pendleton, C, SR (Kentucky Wesleyan signee) – Strong defensive catcher and reliable offensive contributor.
Caden Dorsey, RHP, SR – Team anchor on the mound.
Grayson Phillips, LHP, SO – Emerging rotational talent with upside for growth.

Top Newcomers / Contributors to Watch

Jeremiah Green, SR (transfer from Butler) – Will compete for 2B and pitching rotation innings.
Hunter Wilson, SO – Versatile player capable of helping on both the mound and in the infield.

Team Strengths
North Bullitt returns a core of athletic, experienced players who can run, hit, and play strong defense. With four-year starters in key spots, the Eagles bring continuity and leadership to a roster that emphasizes speed, fundamentals, and putting pressure on opposing defenses. Pitching depth remains a developing area, but Dorsey and Phillips anchor the rotation effectively.

Outlook for 2026
With internal expectations set at four and no major absences beyond potential injuries, North Bullitt expects to compete for both district and regional success. Athleticism and experience should allow the Eagles to challenge top programs in Region 6, while younger contributors gain exposure and development at the varsity level.

Notable Absences

Shawn McNeill, 6’6” RHP, SR – Recovering from shoulder injuries; status for 2026 is doubtful, though not completely ruled out.\

Schedule Notes

Opening Day: Home vs. Campbellsville
April 22: at PRP (6th region rival)
April 28: at Bullitt East (county and region rival)
May 1: at North Laurel
May 2: David Iery Invitational at Corbin vs. Paintsville
May 6: at St. X
May 9: Home three-way vs. Boyd County and CAL
May 12: at Male

Wolfe County Wolves

Region 14 | District 55
Head Coach: Benny Campbell
Twitter/X: @Wolfebasebal

Wolfe County enters 2026 coming off one of the most successful seasons in program history and returns a loaded, experienced senior class determined to build on that momentum.

2025 Recap
Finished 24–12, earning 55th District Runner-Up, capturing the 14th Region Championship, and advancing to the KHSAA State Tournament Quarterfinals.

Departed Leader

Brayden Wilson, C/OF: Key offensive contributor in 2025 (29 hits, 21 RBI) whose presence behind the plate will need to be replaced.

Returning Core

Max Whisman, P/SS, 2026 (Midway University commit): Led the team in multiple pitching categories while batting over .300. Strong defender up the middle and a cornerstone of the staff.

Jayden Molands, OF, 2026 (Spalding University commit): Speedy outfielder with elite defensive instincts who led the team in multiple offensive categories last year.
Camden Oliver, 1B/P, 2026: Strong defensive first baseman with versatility on the mound and in the outfield. Finished 2025 with a .398 batting average.

Kristopher Evans, INF/P, 2026: Elite defensive glove up the middle and a dependable arm. Led the team in walks, showing discipline at the plate.
Jaden Hollon, P/3B, 2026: Strikeout arm who posted 66 Ks and a 2.31 ERA during his junior season. Also provides elite defense at third base.
Chance Fallen, OF/P, 2026: Athletic outfielder who brings range, speed, and power. Known for clutch hitting and baserunning ability.
Jaxson Hollon, C/OF, 2026: Strong-armed catcher who can provide a spark offensively.

Underclassmen to Watch

Landon McWhorter, 2028
Slade Freeman, 2028
Cameron Hollon, 2028

Rising sophomores who gained crucial experience as freshmen and are expected to expand their roles.

Team Identity
Pitching and defense remain the foundation. Wolfe County returns its entire pitching staff, including multiple frontline arms, and much of its offensive production. The focus in 2026 will be refining the offensive approach and improving plate discipline. Replacing depth at catcher will be an early point of emphasis.

Outlook
Expectation level: 4. With nearly every key arm and bat returning from a region championship squad, Wolfe County has the experience and talent to make another deep postseason run.

Schedule Highlights

March 20 – @ Great Crossing
April 1 – vs Lexington Catholic
April 25 – Triangle @ Johnson Central (vs GRC/Johnson Central)
May 5 – @ Frederick Douglass
May 12 – @ Henry Clay

A challenging slate designed to prepare the Wolves for another postseason push.

Great Crossing Warhawks

Region 11 | District 41
Head Coach: Greg Stratton
2025 Record: 20-11 (Lost in District)

After a 20-win campaign a season ago, the Warhawks enter 2026 with a clear identity — pitch it, catch it, and make you earn every 90 feet. With a strong returning core and multiple two-way pieces, Great Crossing looks built to grind through a competitive district slate and make noise when it matters most.

Key Returners

Chase Little (’26) – 3B/SS/P: Versatile defender with the ability to impact the game on both sides. Competitive presence on the mound and steady glove on the dirt.

Collier Curtis (’26) – SS/2B/P: One of the defensive anchors up the middle. Athletic mover with the ability to handle multiple roles, including innings on the bump.
Hayden Kirby – 1B/3B/DH/P: Physical presence in the middle of the order who can also give quality innings. Brings experience and run production.
Brayden Beckett (’26) – 2B/SS/P: Reliable defender with pitchability on the mound. Adds depth to both the infield and pitching staff.
Colten Warren (’27) – C/P: Backstop who manages the game well and can contribute on the mound. Key piece to the Warhawks’ defensive identity.
Landen Walters (’28) – P/OF: Young arm with upside. Expected to take on a larger role in 2026.

Eli Adkins (’27) – OF: Athletic outfielder who helps solidify the defensive unit.

Underclassmen to Watch

Braden Fannin (’28) – 1B/P: Emerging bat with power potential and developing arm strength.
Parker Covington (’28) – P/SS: Projectable two-way talent who could factor into the rotation.

Trenton Hano (’27) – 2B/SS/P: Athletic utility type capable of filling multiple roles.
Evan Duvall (’28) – C/SS/P: Versatility stands out; a young piece who can develop into a key contributor.

Team Strengths
Pitching and defense headline this Warhawk squad. The infield returns significant experience with Curtis, Beckett, Little, and Kirby forming a steady unit. Behind the plate, Warren provides leadership and continuity. On the mound, Great Crossing leans on returning arms such as Walters, Chastin Covington, Curtis, and Parker Covington. The rotation has the ability to compete in any district matchup, and if the bullpen develops depth behind them, this group could take a sizable step forward.

2026 Schedule Highlights

Wolfe County (3/20)
at Montgomery County (3/25)
Ryle (3/26)
at Madison Central (3/30)
at Trinity (4/1)
District play vs Western Hills (4/14-15), Franklin County (4/21-22), Frankfort (4/28-29)
at Scott County (4/12)

With experience up the middle, multiple two-way contributors, and a pitching-first mentality, the Warhawks have the foundation to turn last year’s district exit into a deeper postseason run. If the offense finds consistency to complement the arms, Great Crossing could be one of the more balanced clubs in the region come May.

Hopkins County Central Storm

Region 2 | District 7
Head Coach: Austin Starks
2025 Record: 7-21 (Lost in District First Round to Madisonville)

Hopkins County Central may have finished 7-21 a year ago, but don’t let the record fool you — this is a roster that gained valuable experience early due to injuries and is now battle-tested heading into 2026. The Storm will be young on paper, yet seasoned in innings, with a strong core up the middle and an ascending pitching staff.

Key Returners

Gaige Brasher (SR ’26) – C/OF: East/West Junior Game participant after hitting .364 last season. Versatile defender who can control the game behind the plate or provide athleticism in the outfield.

Neilan Bruce (FR ’29) – OF/P: All-District as an 8th grader after hitting .364. Toolsy, high-profile arm with impact speed. Dynamic top-of-the-order threat.

Sawyer Allen (FR ’29) – C/UTIL: Set the school record for walks as an 8th grader. Advanced approach at the plate and natural leader behind the dish.

Brody Smith (SO ’28) – 2B/P: Offensive spark plug with high contact rate. Expected to take on expanded innings on the mound.
Levi Stanley (FR ’29) – SS/P: Will anchor the defense at shortstop when not pitching. Projects as a major rotation piece.
Peyton James (SR ’26) – LHP/1B: Crafty lefty who will shoulder the load on the mound while adding pop in the lineup.

Arms to Watch

Justin Browning (’29) – P/OF: Crafty lefty who fills the zone.
Jett Gates (’27) – P: Plus off-speed mix with experience in spot starts; poised for increased innings in 2026.

Team Outlook
The Storm’s strength lies in strong middle defense and a pitching staff trending upward. Despite their youth, many of these players logged major varsity reps last season. Expect versatility at the top of the lineup — mixing small ball pressure with timely power. If the young arms continue to mature, Hopkins County Central could flip close games into wins and compete throughout district play.

District & Key Dates

Caldwell County – March 24 & 26
Madisonville – April 14 & 16
Dawson Springs – April 21 & 23
2A Opening Round vs Trigg County – March 23

With experienced youth and developing arms, the Storm look primed to take a step forward in 2026.

Nicholas County Bluejackets

Region 10 | District 38
Head Coach: Josh Earlywine
2025 Record: 10-22 (District Runner-Up; Lost First Round of Region)

Nicholas County’s 2025 season was a tale of growth. After a slow start, the Bluejackets found their rhythm late — and with a roster built heavily around underclassmen, that momentum could carry into 2026.

Core Returners

Jayden Robinson (’27) – SS/P: Named Sophomore 10th Region All-Star and the team’s best returning arm. Impact player on both sides of the ball.

Chandler Kenney (’27) – UTL/P: True leadoff presence who can play anywhere. Finished 2025 on a tear.

Cash Linville (’27) – 1B/P: Physical presence who adds depth to the rotation.
Jackson Zimmerman (’30) – INF: Hit .290 in the two-hole as a 7th grader while playing multiple infield spots. Advanced for his age.

Additional Pieces

Jimmy Marcum (’26) and Asher Holland (’27) provide depth on the mound and defensive flexibility, while role players like Parker Smith and Easton Adams are expected to log meaningful innings.

Team Outlook
Most of this core has started since their freshman year — and that experience matters. With sophomores now juniors and middle schoolers now battle-tested varsity players, leadership growth will be key. Adding two upperclassmen to the mix should stabilize the lineup and clubhouse presence. If the Bluejackets can put together a complete season from start to finish, they have the pieces to compete consistently in the 10th Region.

Key Dates

@ GRC – March 19
Harrison County – April 1 (Away) & April 20 (Home)
Campbell County – April 28
Travis Sims Oaks & Derby Classic – April 28–May 1

Expect a more mature and complete Bluejacket squad in 2026.