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2026 OHSAA Tournament: State Final Four Preview

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Division I

Division I Tournament Bracket

#2 Olentangy Orange

Record: 24-5
Head Coach: Tom Marker
Final Ranking: No. 2
Preseason Ranking: No. 5
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 2017, 2023, 2026
• State Runner-up: 2023
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics: 

• Offense: Team Average: .350, Total Runs: 230
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 191, Team ERA: 2.13, Strikeouts: 216

Top Players:

• Griffin Zavislak, LF, 2026
• Jake Luling, RF, 2027
• Maverick Scholvin, 1B, 2027
• Xavier Aguila, 3B/P, 2026
• Nick Vicars, CF, 2027
• Colby Luling, C, 2028
• Jackson Hoyt, SS, 2027
• Jaxen Miller, DH, 2026
• Zane Konczak, 2B, 2026
• Reid Hemrick, RHP, 2026
• Zach Wright, RHP, 2026
• Mason Poulter, RHP, 2026
• Josh Barnhart, LHP, 2027

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: Everything from our Tough Fridays in the fall to our classroom sessions before trainings have helped us "zone in" our focus for the season. I also think the fact that we start 7 dual sport athletes that have had success in other arenas is truly helpful. Lastly, our spring trip is VERY unorthodox and something that we believe is vitally important in creating team. In this portal era, many programs collect talent...we build teams.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: Our goal all year has been to callus our minds with a tough schedule and to put ourselves in the best position to make a run in the tournament. We do not affiliate ourselves with a league, so we discuss the regular season as 27 glorified scrimmages. In the winter, when I looked at academic grades across the program, I realized that these guys were very low maintenance and they were dialed into being great in every area of their life.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: I think the innocence and free spirit that our guys approach training with is second to none. That along with the competitive nature provides a unique and much needed balance. I think our guys understand their identity and they lean into it. 

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: More experiences and more time! We all know that wins are random, especially in a one game baseball playoff format. However, we are very intentional about creating experiences for our guys and them finding a way to beat Newark provides additional time and experiences for our group. I'm elated that they get the opportunity to be a part of a state final four.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: You always have a chance. All you need is "a chip and a chair" and you have a legitimate chance. So, as we've said all along, we just want the opportunity to compete and the opportunity to have meaningful, life changing experiences.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: We played Perrysburg earlier this year and we respect the heck out of Dave Hall and what he has meant for baseball across the state. We've played Moeller almost every year since I've been at Orange and we obviously know the program that they are. We have never played St. Xavier before, but we had the opportunity to watch them play in the Regional Semi at Miami and their team is uber talented and they play great baseball. We're obviously the underdog, but we'll compete.

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: We're where we are because of the support we have from ALL of Olentangy. Our parents have been so supportive in everything we do. Our strength coach and trainers pour into our guys and it has helped tremendously. Thank you to the entire support staff, but especially Jonah Schecklehoff, Madison Twyford (Best social media and graphic artist in the country), Vin and Treyton with The Pit and our Boosters. People see the finished product, but until you peel back the curtain you have no idea the time and effort people put in. Lastly, thank you PBR, Scott Reed, Steve Blackledge, and Frank DiRenna for your willingness to promote our players and our program.

#3 St. Xavier

Record: 25-5
Head Coach: Don DiGiacomo
Final Ranking: No. 3
Preseason Ranking: No. 13
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 1994, 2003, 2026
• State Runner-up: None
• State Championship: 2003

Top Players:

• Dillon Brus, RF, 2026
• Braden Bricking, SS, 2026
• Jack Ryan, 1B/P, 2026
• Jackson Sherrard, DH, 2026
• Logan Von Holle, CF, 2027
• Griffin Doxsey, 2B, 2028
• Dom Dials, 3B, 2028
• Eric Nienaber, LF, 2027
• Sam Sprengard, C, 2028
• Liam McGeady, RHP, 2027
• Sam Vovak, RHP, 2028
• Eric Nienaber, RHP, 2027
• Ryan Krause, LHP, 2027
• Cameron Kline, RHP, 2027

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: A significant emphasis was placed on increasing our team strength through rigorous off-season training. We’ve embraced a workman-like mentality to our preparation.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: We had a solid start and have gained momentum from that start. Our trip to Toledo, facing tough competition for the Jesuit Cup, provided the opportunity to compete against some of the top programs in Ohio. Playing well in that tournament was an indication we have a special group. And, competing favorably in our league (GCL South), against some of the best in Ohio each week, provided a good measure of a team’s potential. We performed well in high leverage games throughout league play which indicated to me, we have a quality group this season.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: Our pitching has been very consistent. We have played solid defense. And, we are getting guys on base.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: Winning a Regional Championship this season indicates the growth we’ve experienced as a program. Our region has produced many State Champions…Southwest Ohio baseball is highly competitive. Raising that trophy is significant in many ways…for our team, for our community and for our players, coaches and staff!

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: Blessed for the opportunity to compete against three quality programs with great coaching staffs.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: We know our GCL league opponent, Moeller pretty well and respect the program Coach Held and his staff put together each season. Coach Hall at Perrysburg has consistently produced quality teams…we had the honor of playing them in 2003 on our way to the State Championship. They have become a power in NW Ohio. Coach Marker at Orange has done a tremendous job since taking the Orange program. Their style of play is their trademark. They play in a highly competitive conference and have consistently excelled. We have tremendous respect for each of the teams and the coaches.

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: We are honored to represent our St. Xavier, Jesuit community. Our family culture and commitment to mind, body & spirit provide the foundation for our success. We are blessed to provide our student-athletes with excellent coaches, administrators and support staff in addition to outstanding parental involvement. All have contributed to the success we have enjoyed on and off the field! Simply stated, “We are Blessed.”

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Division II

Division II State Bracket

• #6 New Albany vs #27 Harrison
• #4 North Canton Hoover vs #26 Walsh Jesuit

#6 NEW ALBANY: New Albany will be back to the Final Four for the second year in a row after topping Big Walnut 5-1 in the regional finals. The Eagles edged Westerville South 2-1 in the semis with Bryson Gittins allowing three hits in six innings. Gittins, who is 9-0 on the season with a 0.834 ERA, threw four no-hit frames and Mason Ackermann went 2-2 with six RBIs in leading the No. 6 team in D-II by Newark Licking Valley 11-0 in the district title game. The Eagles pounded Walnut Ridge 22-0 in the semis. State champions in 2004 and 2021 in the first two state appearances by New Albany, the Eagles fell to Amherst Steele 3-2 in last year’s state semifinals. Head coach Mike Sandman has a career record of 128-75, including a 78-38 mark at New Albany.

#27 HARRISON: A five-run fifth inning propelled Harrison to a 6-3 win over Anderson and a trip to state for the first time ever. The Wildcats scored one in the sixth and one in the seventh to rally past Loveland 2-1 in the semis, with Ryan Stigler going 4-4. Harrison, which entered tournament play with a 10-10 record, pushed across three runs in the top of the 10th to stun Edgewood 7-4 in the district finals, advancing to regionals for the initial time since 2009. Drew Baker had a two-out RBI single and David Baldock added a two-run double. Preston Flick threw six shutout innings in relief and Baldock came in for four scoreless frames to pick up the win. After Northmont scored seven in the bottom of the sixth to tie up the game, Harrison tallied seven in the top of the seventh and went on to a 14-10 semifinal victory. Stigler drove in six with two singles and a double and Kyle Davidson was 3-4 with three runs. Stigler has a slash line of .600/.647/.667 in tourney action with eight RBIs and a 1.314 OPS. The Wildcats have had nine players with multiple hits in the tournament and a dozen have scored. Ben Toerner has a coaching record of 114-64.

#4 NORTH CANTON HOOVER: North Canton Hoover is returning to the state tournament for the first time since 1999 after knocking off Brecksville Broadview-Heights 6-4. Evan Fuller, a Youngstown State signee, threw a one-hitter at Hudson in a 4-0 regional semifinal victory. Roman Geiselman was 2-3 in both regional contests. The Vikings were at regionals for the fourth time in five years after beating Green for the third time this season, winning 3-2 in eight innings on a walk-off error. Nolan Pellegrino and Preston Lee gave up five hits in a 3-0 shutout of Valley Forge in the district semifinals. Jack Andes, the Federal League POY, has 120 career stolen bases to stand 13th all-time in the OHSAA. The 43 steals from the Bowling Green commit are a school record while Andes also has the record with 10 career triples, 89 career runs, 48 pitching appearances and 16 career saves. Andes and Jack Ziarka have four home runs apiece and Ziarka has the school BBCOR era record of five career home runs. The fourth-ranked team in D-II has set school records for stolen bases (129) and home runs in the BBCOR era (11). The Federal League champions have tied the school record for wins in a season with 25. In 73 seasons, North Canton Hoover has a record of 1,164-655. Bryan Asby is 138-65 in eight seasons at the helm.

#26 WALSH JESUIT: Walsh Jesuit entered tournament play with a 10-12 record, but the Warriors are now headed to state following an 8-4 regional championship game win over Shaker Heights. Tanner Fitzwater was 3-4 to lead an 11-hit attack after beating Highland 2-0 in the semifinals behind a two-hit 11-strikeout shutout from Tennessee commit Shawn Sullivan. Matthew Mansbery was 4-4 for the Warriors, which avenged a 3-2 regular-season defeat to Mayfield with a 7-3 district final win. Sullivan had 10 Ks in 5.1 innings while Mansbery hit a single and two triples and Sean McHugh three singles. Mount Union commit Anthony D’Angelo threw a five-inning no-hitter in the semifinal 20-0 win over Euclid with 13 strikeouts. Colin Locigno drove in four and scored three runs, Mansbery had a single and double with three runs and Mount Union signee Rylan Batley hit a homer. Mansbery, a Michigan recruit, is 11-14 with 10 runs scored in the tournament, hitting three triples and two doubles while stealing three bases. Fitzwater is 6-11 with 11 runs while Batley has hit a single, double and home run while walking five times. Sullivan has 21 Ks in 12.1 innings in tourney play and fanned 78 in 40.2 frames overall with a 0.861 ERA. Walsh Jesuit has won four state championships (2008, 2006, 2004 and 1999) and finished second twice (2010 and 2009). Joe Bowers is 76-35-1 as head coach for the Warriors, which are at state for the fourth time in six years.

#6 New Albany

Record: 24-7
Head Coach: Michael Sandman
Final Ranking: No. 6
Preseason Ranking: No. 11
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 2004, 2021, 2025, 2026
• State Runner-up: None
• State Championship: 2004, 2021

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .359, Total Runs: 288
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 199.1, Team ERA: 2.49, Strikeouts: 204

Top Players:

• Caden Kistner, SS, 2026
• Remy Trautner, 3B, 2028
• Jate Hoovler, C, 2026
• Mason Ackermann, RF
• Carson Skinner, 1B, 2027
• Connor Bahr, LF, 2027
• Van Routhier, CF, 2026
• Justin Speert, DH, 2026
• Nick Nardell, 2B, 2027
• Bryson Gittins, P, 2027
• Aidan Wyche, P, 2027 
• Jay Smith, P, 2029
• Peter Dippolito, P, 2028
• Colton Tyler, P, 2026
• Wolfie Howe, P, 2026

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: Our kids worked extremely hard in the weight room and in our hitting sessions to set the tone for this season. There were a lot of jobs and opportunities up for grabs and our offseason attendance was off the charts. This helped created a ton of competition that helped bring out the best in our guys

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: I started to believe during our spring trip. We played a very difficult opening week schedule in Destin, FL and our guys performed at a high level. When we returned we jumped right into OCC-OHIO play and our guys had a big first week and just continued to show up every day and work their tails off and it was during this time we knew we had a group that was going to grind to reach their goals. 

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: I love the fact that our team just shows up ready to work each and every day. It has been a challenging year in that we did not have a true home field and we were constantly having to adjust when and where we would be practicing/ playing. Our group has never blinked while all this has happened and have just shown up every day ready to attack whatever is in front of them on that day. 

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: The feeling was amazing. After last year we had a lot of positions to replace and this team has been able to come in and write their own story. To see the joy in our guys faces after winning is something that will stick with me forever

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: We are beyond excited for the opportunity and look forward to the chance to represent our community with some of the best programs from around the great state of Ohio.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: The other three teams in our division have all shown that they are tremendous programs who are all more than capable of winning a state title. To make it through the District and Regionals shows that these teams have depth and the ability to rise to the occasion. We know we will have to play our best baseball and cannot wait to compete. 

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: Thank you New Albany for always supporting our program and we look forward to seeing you on Friday. GO EAGLES!

#27 Harrison

Record: 14-11
Head Coach: Ben Toerner
Final Ranking: No. 27
Preseason Ranking: N10
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 2026
• State Runner-up: None
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .267, Total Runs: 141
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 164, Team ERA: 3.16, Strikeouts: 165

Top Players:

• Mitchell Mercurio, LF, 2026
• Tucker Ward, 3B, 2026
• Drew Baker, DH, 2027
• Cameron Enneking, C, 2026
• David Baldock, 1B/LHP, 2027
• Kyle Davidson, CF, 2027
• Derek Stigler, 2B, 2027
• Ryan Stigler, SS/P, 2027
• Aaron Davis, RF, 2028
• Xander Loos, RHP, 2026
• Preston Flick, LHP, 2026
• Cole Metzger, LHP, 2028

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach:  With no league we have talked all year about only hanging banners for a district title and beyond. That was always the goal. With that in mind we've challenged ourselves all year looking to schedule opponents that could prepare us for these games.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: The talent has been evident all year. We're young, though. As coaches we knew from the fall that we were good enough to be playing ball in June. It took a spring of ups and downs for us as a team to mature and start believing that we were good enough to be here. 

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We are absolutely playing our best ball right now. We are having our best workouts and are as focused as I've seen a team. With that we've grown closer and more confident as a group. We believe in the guy next to us. We know how hard we've all worked. We're locked in right now. I's fun to be a part of it.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: It was incredible. Watching the players, coaches, families, friends, everyone celebrate out there was a moment that I made sure to take in. I wanted to be there in that moment for as long as I could. These guys have worked so hard. These families have sacrificed so much. This community has been through a lot. This being the programs first Regional Title, it felt like we had the whole city of Harrison celebrating along with us. It's really a feeling that you never know if you're going to experience again, so I made sure to soak in every second of it.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: It's what we all want to do as baseball guys. It's really the big goal. To see the guys that have worked so hard since September get a chance to finish the job is so rewarding.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: You don't get to this point without being a really good ball club. I have the utmost respect for the other teams here. Nothing has been easy so far and that's certainly not going to change now. It's going to be a dog fight. We wouldn't want it any other way.

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: As a coach, I just want to say thank you. Thank you to the players, families, friends, administrators, teachers, support staff, bus drivers. Thank you to my amazing coaching staff who do so much. Thank you to my family who has been a constant source of support. Thank you to Mr Mark Meibers who has always found a way for us. Thank you to Harrison. We hope we've made you proud and we hope we can continue to do so. Go Cats!

#4 North Canton Hoover

Record: 25-4
Head Coach: Bryan Ashby
Final Ranking: No. 10
Preseason Ranking: No. 11
Postseason History: 

• State Final Four: 1992, 1999, 2026
• State Runner-up 1992
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .276, Total Runs: 172
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 201.1, Team ERA: 2.50, Strikeouts: 229

Top Players: 

• Jack Andes, CF/P, 2026
• JR Cook, 2B, 2026
• Carter Lukens, 3B, 2026
• Jack Ziarko, 1B, 2026
• Roman Geiselman, RF, 2027
• Ryan Cervenak, SS, 2027
• Grady Jurica, C, 2028
• Bryce Gerstenslager, DH, 2027
• Brady Hassen, LF, 2027    
• Evan Fuller, RHP, 2026
• Mason Groninger, RHP, 2028
• Nolan Pellegrino, RHP, 2027

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: We continued building our team through team training with NST Sports Performance, skills training within our program to further development, and generally communicating with our players daily on specific goals for team and individual success. Getting to know our players better within their thought process and bringing our staff vision together as one has made us a stronger, more together team than ever. 

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: Baseball is a very tough sport to play, and the best team doesn't always win, so we enjoy every single win because they are hard to come by. With 10 seniors and great leadership returning we thought we had a solid chance to make a deep run, but, as far as when we believed we had a shot at reaching State, it was when that last out was made in the Regional final. 

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: I believe we know exactly who we are and how we want to play the game. Our players really play for each other and believe in each other, which has led to our great success this year. It seems like every game we have had a different player step up to get the job done. 

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: It's been an amazing season for us. Winning the districts 4 of the past 5 years, losing in the regional final in 2024, to get over the hump and into the State Final Four has been nothing short of AWESOME! An incredible feeling of success, so happy for our program, school, and community. It's been 27 years since we have been here and we are going to enjoy every minute of this ride!

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: We have worked extremely hard to get to this point in the season, every team here has a story, every team here is really good. We expect to play well and will take advantage of every opportunity in front of us. Every team's dream is to play for a State Title and here we are, we will not take one minute of it for granted.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: All great programs that we respect and have had great seasons. We will certainly have to do our part to be able to compete at a level that puts us in position to have success and win!

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: I would like to thank my players, parents, coaching staff, support staff, and school administration for all the teamwork that went into this incredible season. When you have great people, who genuinely care, around you working together towards success it makes a world of difference for all involved! GO VIKES!!! 

#26 Walsh Jesuit

Record: 15-12
Head Coach: Joe Bowers
Final Ranking: No. 26
Preseason Ranking: No. 3
Postseason History: 

• State Final Four: 1989, 2021, 2023, 2025, 2026
• State Runner-up: 2009, 2010
• State Championship: 1999, 2004, 2006, 2008

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .275, Total Runs: 123
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 181.2, Team ERA: 2.54, Strikeouts: 218

Top Players: 

• Matt Mansbery, SS, 2026
• Colin Locigno, 2B, 2026
• Carlos Smith, LF, 2026
• Rylan Batley, 1B, 2026
• Sean McHugh, 3B, 2027
• Will Blueter, C, 2028
• Ryan Clark, DH, 2026
• Tanner Fitzwater, CF, 2026
• Ben Babinec, RF, 2028
• Shawn Sullivan RHP 2026
• Caleb Mecurio, RHP, 2026
• Luca Borichevsky, LHP, 2027
• Desmond Jethrow, LHP, 2027

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: We made our schedule very difficult this year to make sure our guys were tested.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: I believed this team could reach state in June of 2025.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: What I like most about our team is the ownership the players have taken over the program, they have really created a culture where they play for each other.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: I was just so happy for the players, they work so hard, and it is really fulfilling to see their hard work pay off for them.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: I mean it is incredible, we are so excited to keep playing baseball, and have a shot at the title.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: The 3 other teams in our division are amazing programs, and whoever comes out on top will have definitely earned that ring.

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: I just want to thank our WJ Baseball families and community.  Our program is blessed to have such great support, and none of this would be possible with out them!

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Division III

Division III State Bracket

• #1 Badin vs #3 Padua
• #17 Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy vs #2 Bishop Watterson

 #1 BADIN: This will be state tournament appearance number 17 for Badin, which has outscored the opposition 55-1 in the tournament to date. A three-hit shutout with nine strikeouts from Caleb Driessen gave the Rams the regional crown with a 5-0 blanking of Butler. Alabama commit Chandler Taylor was 3-4 for the top-ranked team in Ohio, which run-ruled Tippecanoe 10-0 in the regional semis with Brooks Treadway throwing a no-hitter, Derek Ogden going 4-4 and Thomas More recruit Eli Wolpert 3-3. It was the fourth run-rule of the tournament for Badin, which defeated Mt Healthy 18-0, Talawanda 10-0 and Chaminade-Julienne 12-1. Badin pitchers (the top six are all seniors) have given up seven total hits in 28 innings, with Driessen, a Miami Ohio signee, going the distance in the district finals with eight Ks. The team ERA in the tourney is 0.250. Taylor, who has established the career RBI record at Badin with 112, is 9-15 with eight RBIs in the tourney. Three others are hitting .500 or better in the tournament, Ogden .700, Vince Laugle .556 and Wolpert .500. The team is batting .483 in the tournament for head coach Brion Treadway, who has a record of 328-107. Badin has been to five of the last six Final Fours. 

#3 PADUA FRANCISCAN: Padua scored four runs in the top of the sixth to rally from a 4-0 deficit, then scored two in the seventh after University School had gone in front 5-4 and the Bruins held on for a 6-5 victory. The University School had eliminated Padua 8-5 in eight innings in last year’s regional semifinal. Ben Thomas was the winning pitcher, throwing 1.2 innings of shutout relief, getting out of a two-on and two-out jam in the last of the seventh. Reed Cervenka drove in Patrick Loftus with what proved to be the winning run after Jacob Rhivalsky had brought home Chase Martin to tie the game. Rhivalsky had three hits and three RBIs for the third-ranked team in the state, which beat Southview 3-2 in the regional semifinals. Martin fanned 11 in five innings of four-hit, one-run pitching while driving in two runs. Prior to regionals, Padua had not been scored on in the tournament, beating Cleveland JFK 19-0, Copley 10-0 and Alliance 5-0. Chase Bart and Brandon Tillman did not allow a hit in the JFK game, Martin surrendered one versus Copley and Jack DeGetter had a five-hitter against Alliance. The lineup for the Bruins features eight starting underclassmen. Sophomore Braylon Benson is batting .402, freshman Michael Cangelosi Jr. .395 and junior Bryden Spellacy .353 to lead the attack, with DeGetter, a senior LHP committed to Otterbein, 7-0, and Martin, a sophomore RHP, 7-1 on the hill. This is the fifth state appearance for Padua, which has never won a championship, reaching the finals once, losing to Cincinnati Western Hills 11-4 in the 1977 AAA finals. The last state appearance came two years ago when the Bruins fell to Badin 5-0 in the Division II semifinals. Head coach Ryan McSweeney has a record of 86-50-1.

#17 CUYAHOGA VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY: Jacob Lancy scored on a walk-off single by Alex Mammone sending CVCA to the state tournament with a 3-2 win over Hoban. Mammone was the winning pitcher with two innings of shutout relief of Peyton Drabick, who had two hits and an RBI. Connor McGough had a home run for CVCA. Mammone also got the final out in a 2-0 win over Chardon in the regional semis, coming in for Kyle Shaw with two on and two away in the top of the seventh. Shaw, a Baldwin-Wallace signee, gave up one hit and four walks in 6.1 innings. Three unearned runs in the top of the 10th lifted CVCA past Uniontown Lake 7-4 in the district finals with Drabick producing four hits for the Royals, which won its two previous tourney games by a combined 29-0. Lancy had three RBIs versus Youngstown East and Drabick four against Northwest. This will be the first trip to state for CVCA, which has been to regionals three consecutive seasons. Head coach Jason Herblet has a career record of 188-96. Drabick is batting .588 with five RBIs in the tournament while fanning nine in nine innings pitched with a 2.10 ERA. Mammone is 2-0 with a save, striking out 14 in 7.2 frames while not allowing a run. Shaw has also not given up an earned run while surrendering just four hits in 10.2 innings. McGough has set the season record for runs with 49 and is also third in stolen bases (23), fifth in doubles (13) and fifth in RBIs (36) while Drabick is fifth in Ks (77). The team has established a record for base on balls in a season with 175. 

#2 BISHOP WATTERSON: Ben Burleson tossed a two-hit shutout to lead Watterson to the state tournament with a 5-0 blanking of London. Burleson and Michael Mulligan drove in two runs each for the second-ranked Eagles, which used a five-run sixth to outlast Warren 9-5 in the regional semis. Caden Mangini had a single and triple with four RBIs. Burleson threw a six-hitter to send Watterson back to regionals for the 17th time with a 6-1 victory over Bloom Carroll in the districts. Mulligan, a Toledo commit, has six hits in the tournament for the Eagles, which broke a 3-3 tie with a four-run sixth to beat Bexley 7-3 in the district semis. Watterson, which starts seven seniors, has won 23 of its last 24 games. This will be the eighth state appearance and the first since 2015, with the Eagles winning it all in 1997, 1991 and 1988.

#1 Badin

Record: 27-3
Head Coach: Brion Treadway
Final Ranking: No. 1
Preseason Ranking: No. 1

Postseason History: 

• State Final Four: 1975, 1984, 1991, 1993, 1996, 1999, 2005, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2021, 2022, 2024, 2025, 2026
• State Runner-up: 1975, 1984, 2005, 2008, 2009, 2016, 2024
• State Championship: 1991, 1996

Team Statistics: 

• Offense: Team Average: .370, Total Runs: 255, Total Stolen Bases: 109
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 189, Team ERA: 1.78, Strikeouts: 206

Top Players: 

• Derek Ogden, SS, 2028
• Chandler Taylor, CF, 2026
• Keegan Sawyer, C, 2028
• Vinny Laugle, 1B, 2026
• Colt Emerson, DH, 2026
• Austin Vangen, 3B, 2026
• Cooper Clay, RF, 2028
• Eli Wolpert, LF, 2026
• Cade Cummins, 2B, 2026
• Caleb Driessen, RHP, 2026
• Brooks Treadway, RHP, 2026
• Beau Chaney, RHP, 2026
• Lule Campbell, RHP, 2026
• Carson Lowe, RHP, 2026
• Nick Vess, RHP, 2026

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: This offseason was great. Our guys lift with Coach Cheek in his strength class 5 days a week. We also did YOGA with Mrs. Davis. Our mental performance training with Coach Cole and Coach Marcum was enhanced as well from previous years. Our coaches do a great job with hitting and pitching development as well as our guys working with private instructors. 

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: I knew when we left the field in Akron last year that we would be back this year. 

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: I love that our guys have bought into our hitting approach and our pitching philosophy. I dugout energy has been electric. 

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: It was such a relief to know we were going back to Akron and still in the fight for a state championship. It was so joyful seeing our players celebrating. 

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: This is what it is all about! Our goal is always to be together as long as possible and take our season to the brink. 

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: We played Padua two years ago in the final four. I have a lot of respect for Coach McSweeney and how hard his kids play. I have gotten to know Coach Boulware, from Watterson, at the Catholic Athletes for Christ Showcase the last few years. He's a great guy and his teams are always very competitive. CVCA seems to always be at the top of the state rankings every year and Coach Herblet always plays a tough schedule. 

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: Our regional games at Miami University were packed. Our fans were awesome cheering us on. Go Rams!

#3 Padua Franciscan

Record: 25-4
Head Coach: Ryan McSweeney
Final Ranking: No. 3
Preseason Ranking: No. 14
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 1977, 1984, 2005, 2024, 2026
• State Runner-up: 1977
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics: 

• Offense: Team Average: .303, Total Runs: 193
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 191, Team ERA: 1.86, Strikeouts: 251

Top Players:

• Bryden Spellacy, C, 2027
• Michael Reis, SS, 2027
• Braylon Benson, 1B, 2028
• Michael Cangelosi Jr, 3B, 2029
• Chase Martin, RHP/INF, 2028
• Brendan Reilly, 2B, 2026
• John Park, DH, 2027
• Jacob Rhivalsky, LF, 2027
• Reed Cervenka, CF, 2028
• Ben Thomas, RF, 2026
• Jack DeGeeter, LHP, 2026
• Brandon Tillman, RHP, 2027
• Chase Bart, LHP, 2026
• Ben Thomas, LHP, 2026
• Jose Caban, RHP, 2027
• Carter Palange, LHP, 2028

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: We spent a lot of time in the weight room getting ready for the spring season. We knew we needed to be prepared physically. The offseason work that this team put in on and off the field has spoken for itself. They kept their heads down and worked extremely hard from the start of our offseason program in the fall. Then into the season we were challenged with a tough schedule that prepared us for where we are now.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: It was certainly a goal we set as a team before the season started. As the season started and went on and we were stringing together a lot of quality wins in games we were challenged against good opponents, I think that is when we believed we had a real shot. But you never truly know until you get into the tournament and find a way to get to a regional.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: I really like the energy and focus we have as a team. This is a really close group that has been challenged quite a bit all year long and been in some tough games. This is a hungry team.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: It was an unbelievable feeling. Having to find a way to beat a very good University School team and having to come back from down 4 in the 6th was incredible. Extremely proud of the guys.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: We are excited to be back in the final four. It was a goal that we set as a team to be here and have a chance to win the whole thing and here we are. We are excited and ready to go in hopes of bringing Padua its first baseball state title.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: We have a ton of respect for the other three teams. CVCA, Badin and Bishop Watterson are great programs with great coaches and players. They have been great all year and earned their way here as well. We know that it is going to be a lot of good baseball for two days to see who comes out on top.

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: We are very excited to be back at State. The support throughout the season and postseason has been phenomenal from the Padua community. This team has worked extremely hard to get to this point after a long season and earned their way here and we are hoping to finish the right way.

#17 Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy

Record: 23-9
Head Coach: Jason Herblet
Final Ranking: No. 17
Preseason Ranking: No. 11
Postseason History: 

• State Final Four: 2026
• State Runner-up: None
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .303, Total Runs: 228
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 214.2, Team ERA: 2.64, Strikeouts: 229

Top Players: 

• Layne Davis, OF, 2027
• Connor McGough, SS, 2026
• Jacob Lancy, 3B, 2026
• Jonah Gaudio, LF, 2027
• Peyton Drabick, 2B/P, 2028
• Alex Mammone, 1B/P, 2027
• Zac Anderson, CF, 2027
• Logan Kish, DH, 2026
• Evan Wensel, C, 2026
• Jackson Crews, DH, 2028
• Bo Lanzilotta, DH, 2028
• Kyle Shaw, LHP, 2026
• Ben Pittner, RHP, 2027

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: This was a group of young men that were determined to go "one step further" in our season this year. They were dedicated to the weight room, getting work in on their own, and putting in the time needed to get better. It truly has been a joy watching them grow and come together as a team. 

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: Coming off of last years season, we knew we had the guys in place to make another run. We had a few hiccups along the way this season, but this is a group that never quits and never stops working. They are a group that truly love one another and do not care about who gets the credit day in and day out. They play for one purpose, and that is to honor and glorify Jesus, which is evident by how they carry themselves both on and off the field. 

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: I love their grit. I love that they never give up, they are constantly encouraging and lifting each other up. On any given night, any one of these guys can step up and shine. They are truly a joy to coach! They play with no fear. Does not matter who our opponent is, they are going to go out and give everything they have.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: Winning the Regionals against one of the best teams in the area, in Akron Hoban was truly special. I absolutely love this for our guys. They have put in so much work and trust each other to get the job done. This is our first Regional championship in the history of CVCA baseball, so it was truly a very special night for the players, coaches, and CVCA community. I love how our guys continue to give all the credit to their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! 

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: This is truly an amazing opportunity for our guys. We are going to savor every moment as we go into next week. Our group of 8 seniors is a special group and I cannot think of a group that is more deserving than they are. They are the glue, the leaders, and encouragers of this ball team. They set the tone and carry on the culture that we created here at CVCA. We are excited and ready! Looking forward to a great week ahead. 

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: Padua is in our conference and one of the most complete teams we have played all season. They have a really good pitching staff and top to bottom great lineup and are really well coached. The scary part is, they are really young and will be a top tier team for awhile. I have been saying all year that Bishop Watterson is one of the best teams in the state. They are loaded with talent and it will take us playing our best baseball game of the year to come out on top. There is a reason Badin has been one of the top ranked teams throughout the season. They are well coached, have a ton of talent and play a really tough schedule and may be one of the best teams across all divisions. 

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: Super proud of our group we have this year. Just a bunch of guys who love the game of baseball, but more importantly love playing for Jesus! Our kids play the game the right way. This is a testament to the way they are being brought up by their parents and the CVCA community as a whole. We are super blessed to be a part of a community that supports our guys. What an amazing ride it has been. Looking forward to a great state tournament. 

#2 Bishop Watterson

Record: 26-3
Head Coach: Jeff Boulware
Final Ranking: No. 2
Preseason Ranking: No. 9
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 1973, 1988, 1991, 1995, 1997, 2001, 2015, 2026
  State Runner-up: None
  State Championship: 1988, 1991, 1997

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: 330, Total Runs: 229, 
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 187, Team ERA: 2.09, Strikeouts: 166

Top Players:

• Caden Mangini, CF, 2027
• Michael Wozniak, LF, 2026
• Michael Mulligan, 1B, 2026
• Luke Fivecoat, DH/P, 2026
• Ben Uhlenhake, C, 2027
• Brady McAninch, 2B, 2027
• Ben Burleson, 3B/P, 2026
• Caiden Holcomb, RF, 2026
• Connor Adkins-Davidson, SS/P, 2026
• Max Steinbrunner, RHP, 2028

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: We are very blessed to have an outstanding strength coach in Brian Mong who supports all of our sports at Watterson. Our guys have bought into his system and made significant gains this year. Our assistant coaches also work tremendously hard all year to support our guys with their skill development. We played a challenging schedule as well to help get us ready for this tournament run.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: This group was very intentional about setting high goals for themselves this season and then plotting behavior expectations to help reach those goals. They've had this in mind since last July.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: I love our senior leadership. We've been in several high leverage moments this year and our older guys have really kept us together. There isn't much panic in that dugout. These guys genuinely like each other and support each other's successes.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: My thoughts immediately went to our seniors and their families. I am so happy for them. Selfishly, I am very excited to get one more week with these guys. It is a special group of guys.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: What an amazing opportunity! I'm thrilled our guys get a chance to play on the biggest stage. Hopefully, they enjoy each moment and embrace each opportunity this week.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: Three outstanding programs year in and year out. Each team put together a tough schedule and earned the right to be in the Final Four. These teams are so well coached and talented, so it looks to be a great week of baseball coming up. We are honored to get to compete with them.

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: So thankful for our players and the hard work they've put in to get to this point. Grateful to our parents who sacrifice so much to help make this a positive experience for our guys. Our assistant coaches are amazing and love working to help young people reach their goals. We've got administrators who value sports and the lessons that can be learned. Watterson also has a group of head coaches who support each other's sport and work together in such a positive way. It is a great place to be! Finally, we are very thankful to be a part of the Central Catholic League and get the opportunity to compete against DeSales, Hartley and St. Charles year in and year out. They are so well coached and prepare us for the tournament each season. 

---

Division IV

Division IV State Bracket

• #5 Perkins vs #2 Cardinal Mooney
• #11 Fairfield Union vs #14 Bishop Fenwick

#5 PERKINS: Carter Koch led off the eighth with a double and came home with what proved to be the winning run on a Braxden Martin sacrifice fly to send Perkins back to state with a 6-5 win over Highland. Trailing 5-4, Perkins tied the game on a Talon Walton triple and Koch sac fly in the top of the sixth. Quentin Binette went 4-4 and Martin threw three shutout innings of relief in the win for the fifth-ranked D-IV Pirates, which blanked Van Wert 3-0 in the regional semis on a Walton five-hitter. Bryce Davie hit a single and double for Perkins, which shut out Clyde 8-0 and St. Mary’s 6-0 in districts. Kash Koch threw a no-hitter at St. Mary’s, while Walton and Josh Cummings teamed up on a two-hitter versus Clyde. Walton is 7-18 with seven runs and four RBIs in the tournament for the Pirates, which has never won a state crown, losing to Licking Valley 2-1 in the 2025 state finals. This will be the fourth state appearance for a school that has produced five MLB draft picks.

#2 CARDINAL MOONEY: Mooney scored four runs in the fourth and held on to beat Canton Central Catholic 5-4 in the regional finals, avenging a 10-9 loss three weeks prior. It has the second-rated team in D-IV heading to state for the first time. Johnny Brenner was 3-3 and winning pitcher Ford Stacy 2-2 with two RBIs for the Cardinals, which had three triples in one inning in the game. Mooney advanced to the finals with a 2-0 win over London on a four-hit, 10-strikeout performance from Ben Oddis. The Cardinals won a pair of 3-1 games in the districts against Holy Name and Field. Oddis threw a three-hitter versus Holy Name and Stacy a two-hitter against Field. Stacy and Will Petty teamed up for a no-hitter in the sectional 14-1 win over Niles McKinley. Kaden Reese, one of seven starting juniors, has set the school record for stolen bases for Mooney while Oddis is the career strikeout leader. The Cardinals have a team ERA of 1.273 in the tournament. Eddie Reese has a 73-49 coaching record.

#11 FAIRFIELD UNION: A pair of 5-2 regional victories has Fairfield Union off to state for the first time. The Falcons tallied two in the top of the seventh against Richmond Edison to even the game, then scored four in the 10th highlighted by a Dylan Chilcote two-run double. Elli Wolfe went the first nine innings on the mound for Fairfield Union, which got past Logan Elm in the semifinals with Cameron Silcott not allowing an earned run in 6.2 innings. Chilcote came through with a walk-off single in the bottom of the eighth of a 2-1 district final victory over Gallia Academy. Joe Blankenship, who closed out both regional games, and Silcott combined to limit Gallia to four hits. Wolfe and Silcott pitched the Falcons by Circleville 3-2 in the semis. 

#14 BISHOP FENWICK: Fenwick came back from a 4-3 deficit to edge Roger Bacon 5-4 in the regional title game, scoring two runs in the bottom of the seventh on RBI singles from Jude McCullough and Boyd Westerfield. Carter Shouse went 3-3 and scored two runs for the 14th-ranked Falcons, which rolled over Newark Licking Valley 16-6 in the regional semis with Shouse going 2-4 with four RBIs and Jackson Kaufman 2-2 with three runs and three RBIs. The Falcons tallied five runs in the top of the seventh to shock Urbana 5-2 in the district finals, giving Fenwick its first 20-win season since 2018. Kauffman had a one-out two-run double to put the Falcons on top. Shouse, the second-ranked sophomore in the state, fanned 16 and permitted two hits in helping Fenwick reach the regionals for the second year in a row. Anthony Snyder pitched a two-hit shutout in a 10-0 win over Clinton-Massie in the district semis.  

#5 Perkins

Record: 23-5-1
Head Coach: TJ Blanton
Final Ranking: No. 5
Preseason Ranking: No. 3
Postseason History: 

• State Final Four: 2007, 2014, 2025, 2026
• State Runner-up: 2025
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .319 Total Runs: 209
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 193, Team ERA: 2.28, Strikeouts: 199

Top Players: 

• Bryce Davie, CF, 2027
• Talon Walton SS/P, 2026
• Carter Koch, C, 2028
• Kash Koch, P/DH, 2026
• Sam Schweinfurth, 2B/SS, 2026
• Braxden Martin, 3B/P, 2026
• Quinten Binette, DH/1B, 2026
• Dante Shipp, LF, 2028
• Grant Parker, RF, 2028
• Grant Kuhnle, 1B, 2027
• Mason Souter, 2B, 2027
• Josh Cummings, P, 2027

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: we had motivation from June 15th, 2025 falling 1 run short of a state title. The players and coaches have thought about this date for 350+ days and pushed themselves to change the narrative. Expectations have been high and the team has handled them well given a tough schedule and a target on their back.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: we have always believed we could be a final 4 team in 2026 and the players continued to work daily to achieve that

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: this team is selfless, stats do not matter and every player in the dugout has bought into their role and whatever it takes to win a baseball game 

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: In a way we always believed we would be in this scenario however the expectations and reality of repeating as a regional champion has been earned, not given. Baseball is such a great game where on any given day, anything can happen. It takes great skill and team baseball to repeat as regional champions.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: After being so close in 2025, this senior class and returning players have talked about this moment since the bus ride home last year. Until you have played or coached in these games, you do not have a good sense of the feeling it gives you and to be able to return and have another chance is something every player dreams of growing up and representing your school colors. 

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: 3 teams that have been highly ranked all season and have not made it to Akron by luck. Every team remaining at this point in the season have great players, coaches and skill sets to be playing high school baseball in June, 

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: As always we would like to thank our administration, booster club, families, fans for making this a special season. Our Perkins community has a strong tradition of supporting athletics and the successes of many sporting programs historically and the past couple years. We are excited to represent our community yet again at the state level,

#2 Cardinal Mooney

Record: 24-3
Head Coach: Eddie Reese
Final Ranking: No. 2
Preseason Ranking: No. 1
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: None
• State Runner-up: None
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .385, Total Runs: 220
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 176, Team ERA: 2.30, Strikeouts: 161

Top Players:

• Kaden Reese, CF, 2027
• Andrew Bushey, SS/P, 2027
• Johnny Brenner, RF, 2026
• Ben Oddis, 1B/P, 2027
• Vince Gentile, DH, 2027
• Ryan Reese, 2B, 2026
• Taco Verroco, 3B, 2027
• Ford Stacy, 1B/P, 2027
• Luke Kollar, LF, 2026
• Todd Jones, C, 2027
• Jacob Gugliotta, P, 2026
• Will Petty, P, 2026

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: I think our schedule prepared us for the playoff run that we're on. We've played 3 other teams that are currently in the Final Four in their division, as well as a handful of district champions. 

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: This group has been playing varsity baseball since they were Freshman. Now that we're Juniors and Seniors, the experience and maturity are there now. We always knew this group was capable of getting to this point in the season. 

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: I believe our resiliency is pretty good right now. In 3 of our 5 playoff games, we have trailed at one point in the game. Defensively, we're making big plays in big moments. Our pitching has been very good. Offensively, we've been picking each other up all year. 

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: It was a very cool moment, knowing that we are the first team in school history to win a Regional Championship. 

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: I'm excited for our kids and the opportunity that they have in front of them. 

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: They're all here because they are very good baseball teams. Expecting to see some high quality baseball next weekend.

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: We appreciate the support from the Mooney Family all season long!

#11 Fairfield Union

Record: 24-6
Head Coach: Scott Burke
Final Ranking: No. 11
Preseason Ranking: NR
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 1969,1984,2026
• State Runner-up: 1986
• State Championship: None

Top Players:

• Ashton Waldrop, SS/P
• Alex Burke, 1B
• Garrett Dilcher, CF
• Brady Andrews, C
• Dylan Chilcote, DH
• Cody Andrews, 2B/P
• Braxton Rowles, RF
• Elli Wolfe, P
• Owen Gerardi, 3B
• RJ Hedges, LF
• Cameron Silcott, P
• Joe Blankenship, P

#14 Bishop Fenwick

Record: 22-8
Head Coach: Doc Wieland
Final Ranking: No. 14
Preseason Ranking: No. 15
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 1974, 1981, 1982, 2026
• State Runner-up: 1982 
• State Championship: 1974, 1981

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .303, Total Runs: 205
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 187, Team ERA: 2.62, Strikeouts: 277

Top Players:

• Carter Shouse, P/CF, 2028
• Jude McCullough, C, 2026
• Jackson Kaufmann, SS, 2026
• Isaac Barker, 2B, 2027
• Anthony Snyder, P, 2027
• Caleb McMonigle, P, 2026

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: stayed focused and together as a team on our goal of winning a state championship. Even early in the season when we struggled, we continued to work on playing our best baseball. 

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: in the offseason when I seen our senior leadership and team wide maturity and unselfishness 

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: how Coachable they grown to be, unwavering support of the Fenwick families and fans, and our team first attitude from every guy on the team 

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: as good as I thought it would be, it was better. To see every single player understand and do their role is so satisfying as a coach. 1 through 21, every player has played a part in our success. 

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: an attitude of gratitude. Such a blessing to see how important it is to our players, families, school, and our community 

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: all three teams are very good to be able to get here. All three teams are ranked higher than we are, so we understand the big time challenge in front of us. 

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: I believe we have the best coaching staff, best families, fans, and administration there is. Beyond grateful to be apart of this awesome Fenwick Family. 

---

Division V

Division V State Bracket

• #10 Liberty-Benton vs Columbus Academy
• #7 Lucasville Valley vs #1 Waynedale

#10 LIBERTY-BENTON: The first trip to state is in the books for Liberty-Benton after two 3-1 wins at regionals. Kooper Leatherman threw a two-hitter against Amanda-Clearcreek in the finals after Jackson Knepper pitched a four-hitter versus Sherwood Fairview in the semifinal tilt. Reid Irwin went 3-4 in the finals while Leatherman was 3-3 in the semis. Leatherman ripped a bases-clearing three-run double in a four-run second and Liberty-Benton went on to beat Swanton 5-1 to earn its first trip to regionals since 1997. Knepper threw a five-hitter for the victory. Zach Elchert hit an RBI double in the bottom of the fifth to give the Eagles a 3-2 win over Paulding in the district semis. Leatherman struck out eight in five innings for the win, with Knepper earning the save with two no-hit frames. Knepper went four innings and Leatherman one in an 18-0 sectional triumph over Bluffton, with Leatherman driving in three and Connor Barbara going 2-2 with three runs. Knepper has established the school record for wins in a season with 11, Leatherman has set the mark for doubles in a campaign with 19 and RBIs with 34 while Elchert has set career records for runs (97) and HBP (40) and a season mark with 21 HBP. Matt Rader has a career coaching record of 178-95. 

COLUMBUS ACADEMY: A six-game winning streak has Columbus Academy at 16-16 on the season and headed to state after defeating Versailles 3-2 in the regional finals. The Vikings scored three in the first inning and held on, getting out of a first-and-third jams in the sixth and seventh innings. Dominic Dunkle, a Denison commit, was the winning pitcher with Kevin Klingerman earning the save for Academy, which used an eight-run fourth to beat Arcanum 11-3 in the regional semis. Otterbein signee Cooper Leibus went the distance fanning 12 while Klingerman hit three singles. The Vikings beat three higher-seeded teams en route to its ninth trip to regionals, capped off with an 8-5 victory over Northridge. Dunkle, who is 12-17 in the tournament, had two singles, a double and three runs scored after producing a single, double and three runs in an 11-4 victory versus Fairbanks in the semis. Leibas was 3-5 and drove in three in the district semifinals while Dunkle was 4-4 with two runs and two RBIs in the sectionals versus Mt. Gilead. 

#7 LUCASVILLE VALLEY: Lucasville Valley will be going to state for the sixth time following a 17-6 pounding of Harrison Central in the regional finals. Caysen Zieber was 3-3 to lead a 13-hit attack for the seventh-rated D-V team. Nolan Barnett, who drove in four and scored three against Harrison Central, went all nine innings of a 6-3 win over Minford in the semis. Valley scored three in the ninth with Gavin Hannah scoring on a wild pitch, Carson Powell touching home on a Barnett sac fly and Collin Greene hitting a run-scoring single to plate Nick Queen. The Indians won their fifth district title in a row, avenging a 4-3 regional semifinal loss to Lynchburg-Clay a year ago with a 9-3 district final victory. Queen was 3-3 with three runs scored and Barnett went the distance for Valley, which have just three senior starters. Barnett struck out 13 in 10 innings of the sectional finals and Gabe McNeil had the game-winning hit in the 11th to beat Dawson-Bryant 3-2. Carson Powell, a Mount Vernon Nazarene commit who threw a no-hitter in the district finals last year, had three hits against D-B while McNeil produced three in a 6-1 win over Northwest in the district semis. McNeil tossed a complete game, not allowing an earned run. McNeil is batting .571 with seven RBIs in the tournament, Barnett .438 with seven RBIs, Queen .429 with eight runs, Zieber .429 with six runs and Powell .368 with five runs and four RBIs. Valley last made it to state in 2021, with the lone state championship coming in 1975. Head coach Nolan Crabtree now has an overall record of 169-104.  

#1 WAYNEDALE: Waynedale will be in search of its fourth state crown in a five-year period after winning regionals with a 5-1 victory over Poland Seminary. Brayden Steiner fanned 10 while not giving up an earned run. Jordan Miller struck out 13 in a three-hit shutout of Chagrin Falls in the semifinals, a 3-0 win fueled by two hits from Hudson Barkman. Getting to regionals was far from easy for Waynedale, which did the unthinkable with a four-run bottom of the seventh to stun Keystone 8-7 in the district finals. Steiner hit a two-run one-out double to send the defending D-V state champions, which also won state in 2022 and 2023, back to regionals. Miller struck out 11 in beating Northwestern 5-1 in the district semis, allowing three hits and no earned runs. Logan Troyer was 2-2 and Steiner scored two runs. Lucas Daugherty, who has now led Waynedale to state five consecutive seasons, has a coaching record of 157-36.

#10 Liberty-Benton

Record: 22-5
Head Coach: Matt Rader
Final Ranking: No. 10
Preseason Ranking: No. 14
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: None
• State Runner-up: None
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .347, Total Runs: 237
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 165, Team ERA: 2.42, Strikeouts: 165

Top Players:

• Connor Barbara CF, 2027
• Reid Irwin LF, 2026
• Zach Elchert 3B, 2026
• Kooper Leatherman C/P, 2028
• Isaac Schworm 1B, 2026
• Taden Troyer SS, 2028
• Corbin Schworm DH, 2028
• Jackson Knepper RHP, 2027
• Grady Latta RF, 2028
• Mack Smith 2B, 2026
• Griffin Austermiller, RHP, 2028
• Boston Clum, RHP, 2028

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: Just tried to play as many games as could together and challenge ourselves with our schedule so we could be battle tested when tournament time came around.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: After we won the District title for the first time in 29 years, it seemed like our team became laser focused and set their sights on a goal nobody outside of our program thought we could accomplish.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: Passion and brotherhood.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: Unbelievably proud of our kids. Looking around at the crowd after the game made us understand the excitement and support our community has for our team.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: We are incredibly blessed to be given this opportunity. We know we are the underdogs with zero state tournament appearances in our program's history but that's the way we have felt this entire tournament run. So thankful for all of the previous baseball players who have come through our program to help build the program to where we are today. Even though those players have graduated, the amount of support they showed makes it feel like they are still apart of it. We are going to do our best to continue making them proud.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: Waynedale: The favorite every year. Very experienced group that has a ton of State tournament appearances to hang their hat on. Valley: A top 15 team who has had to beat some really good teams along the way in the tournament to get to State. Columbus Academy: Play an extremely tough schedule that gets them ready for a big tournament run. 

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: We are going to continue trying to go 1-0 each day. We understand the opportunity that we have been presented with. Our team is going to enjoy each and every extra day we have been given together. These memories will last with us for the rest of our lives. Nothing can take away from the brotherhood our players have built. 

Columbus Academy

Record: 16-16
Head Coach: Todd Dunkle
Final Ranking: NR
Preseason Ranking: N10
Postseason History: 

• State Final Four: 1981, 1982, 2003
• State Runner-up: 1981, 2003
• State Championship: 1981

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: 300, Total Runs: 200
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 200, Team ERA: 2.00, Strikeouts: 200

Top Players: 

• Dominic Dunkle OF 2026
• Cooper Leibas C/P 2026
• Will Donohue P/C/1B 2027
• Anthony Penney MIF 2027
• Trey Ransom MIF 2027
• Thomas Rubey IF/OF/P 2027
• Kevin Klingerman P/IF/OF 2029
• Ethan Parish P/OF 2029

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: It starts for us in the weight room, our strength coach, Shelby Reichle, is as good as it gets. We have a lot of multi-sport athletes and the culture in the weight room matches the culture of our program. Whether they're in football/basketball etc. or offseason lifting, our players are being held to the same standards as they would be with us. From there its a lot of hard work on being fundamentally sound, running the bases well, strong catch play, communication. Combine that with the type of schedule we like to play and our belief is come tournament time, we have seen most anything that will get thrown our way.   

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: Its not something we talk about in our program, we do talk a lot about getting to the district final and playing in that game. Once you win districts, it may creep in the back of your head a little bit. Then a little more once you reach the regional final, but our goal is to be where our feet are. Take it a 7 innings at a time and keep trying to be 1-0 each day.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We are connected, the group loves being around each other right now. It's a special feeling when a group starts playing for things bigger than themselves and I think we’ve captured a little bit of that right now

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: Unbelievable. Joy, elation, all sorts of emotion. You start thinking about the group and how hard they’ve worked, how hard our staff works. Then your mind goes to everyone else who helped have a part in this, the families, specifically the senior families. It’s an indescribable feeling of gratitude. 

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: At the end of the day, this is why we do it. This is as real and as fun as it can get in our sport. We’re hungry and excited to compete at this level. Its our job to be where our feet are and enjoy this moment. We want to keep this group together as long as possible.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: Liberty-Benton has had a tremendous season, a great program who finally broke through to this stage. They come from an area loaded with baseball talent, you know they’ve been tested and prove themselves against a lot of quality competition. Waynedale’s resume speaks for itself and Valley is no stranger to this either. 3 top tier programs, but our focus is solely on putting our best effort forward against Liberty-Benton, one at a time. 

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: Just a thank you to everyone who has been along with us all year. Theres too many to thank one by one, but anyone who has had a hand in making this special. We couldn’t do this by ourselves and your help to allow the boys and our staff to enjoy this ride means the world. We talk an awful lot about family and our players and staff know how special the bond we have is, just thankful to be able to take this on with some of our best friends. 

#7 Lucasville Valley

Record: 22-6
Head Coach: Nolan Crabtree
Final Ranking: No. 7
Preseason Ranking: No. 23
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 1965, 1966, 1975, 1977, 2021, 2026
• State Runner-up: 1965, 1966
• State Championship: 1975

Team Statistics: 

• Offense: Team Average: .322, Total Runs: 229
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 191, Team ERA: 2.39, Strikeouts: 174

Top Players:

• Carson Powell, 1B, 2026
• Nick Queen, RF, 2027
• Nolan Barnett, P, 2026
• Collin Greene, DH, 2027
• Gabe McNeil, 3B/P, 2026
• Hunter Cunningham, 2B, 2027
• Thad Lansing, SS, 2027
• Caysen Zieber, CF/P, 2027
• Gavin Hannah, LF, 2028

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: Baseball is a pretty simple game in terms of preparation. There are fundamental things with fielding, throwing, and hitting that you need to devote time to daily to prepare yourself to play the game. The little boring things that you do daily end up being the traits you take to the field, so not letting those things get lost in the shuffle is extremely important to team success. 

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: At the beginning of the tournament run we were dealing with some injuries and had not been playing well. For the first 4-5 weeks of the season I felt we had enough to make a run, but the injuries put us in a tough spot. We survived an 11 inning game in the opening round but gradually started getting healthy. But, I had a very strong feeling that the winner between us and Minford would be making the trip to the state tournament. They are an excellent team and I felt outside of us that they were the best in the region. When we were able to win the 9 inning game against them in the semi-final I had a strong feeling we were going to state. 

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We are really confident and swinging the bat well. The production 1-9 in the order has been huge the last few games and we know that's what we'll need to keep winning. 

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: It was an amazing feeling and I was so happy for my kids and especially my seniors. We have battled a ton of adversity and multiple injuries that have changed the makeup of our team over the last year, and these guys haven't quit. My staff and I were fortunate enough to coach a team that knocked off Hiland in 2021 to go to state, and seeing what that meant to our kids, community, and school is something that I'm thrilled that our current group of kids get to experience. 

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: I am fortunate enough to have been here before and know how fast and intense the experience and the weekend can be. We lost a heartbreaking game in the 2021 state semi and I am hoping to use that to better prepare my team. We have a tall task ahead of us facing defending champion Waynedale, but I know our kids will be up to the task. 

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: I mentioned Waynedale and the program that they have been... They have just been incredible so we have our work cut out for us. Liberty Benton and Columbus Academy are great teams that have had an amazing run to get to this point. Our focus though is on preparing for Waynedale and playing our best baseball. 

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: First, I am excited for our kids. These guys love the game and they love their school. I am so happy that they get to have this experience. My coaching staff consists of my brother and 3 of my former players. These guys have had my back and been a huge part of the success we have had recently. As far as our community, I couldn't be more blessed to have such an amazing backing of our team and program. People within the community as well as alumni and former players have been reaching out with congratulations and offering help with everything that you may need when making this trip. Also, I'd like to thank our administration for their support: Jason Fell - AD, Aaron Franke - superintendent, Kari Smith - principal. I am very lucky to work for such a great school district. 

#1 Waynedale

Record: 29-3
Head Coach: Lucas Daugherty
Final Ranking: No. 1
Preseason Ranking: No. 1
Postseason History: 

• State Final Four: 2016, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026
• State Runner-up: 2016
• State Championship: 2022, 2023, 2025

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .317, 229 Runs 
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 206, Team ERA: 1.49, Strikeouts: 233

Top Players: 

• Brayden Steiner, SS/P, 2026
• Logan Troyer, 1B/P, 2027
• Cam Miller, LF/P, 2027
• Jordan Miller, SS/P, 2026
• Hudson Barkman, CF, 2027
• Brock Reifsnyder, C, 2027
• Collin McGlothlin, 2B, 2026
• Maddox Kidd, 3B, 2028
• Hank Miller, RF, 2026

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: Our players have spent a lot of time in the batting cages and the weight room throughout the year to prepare for this season. They have also battled through a tough regular season schedule. 

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: We always strive to get back to this point in the season. It is never easy to do, but I have always believed this group has what it takes. 

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: Our pitchers have been doing a great job of setting the tone for our team. We have also been getting good production from all parts of our batting order. 

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: We played tough competition in our district and region this year. It was great to see the team compete through all of those games to get back to state. 

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: It is great to still be playing baseball and to have a chance at winning a championship. 

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: All of the teams have had great seasons and have made impressive runs to still be playing. 

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: We have had tremendous support from our community and administration again this year. We couldn’t be here without them. 

---

Division VI

Division VI State Bracket

• #4 Lake Center Christian vs #7 Northmor
• #2 Hiland vs #3 St. Henry

#4 LAKE CENTER CHRISTIAN: A four-hit shutout from Grant Coblentz has Lake Center Christian back at the state tournament. Coblentz struck out 15 and also hit a single and double in the 4-0 win over Doylestown Chippewa by the fourth-ranked team in D-VI, state runners-up last season. The Tigers, which have outscored opponents 52-6 in the tournament, jumped to a 9-1 lead over LaBrae in the regional semifinals and held on for a 9-6 triumph. Nathan Bryant and Colton Smilek were both 3-4 for the Indians, which reached regionals for the fourth year in a row and fifth overall. Caleb Shelly fanned all 15 batters he faced in the sectionals and threw a two-hit shutout with eight Ks against Mogadore n the district semifinals while Coblentz fired a two-hitter with nine strikeouts versus Grand Valley in the district title game. Shelly had three hits, scored four runs and drove in seven against Campbell Memorial while Luke Heckert was 2-3 with three runs versus Mogadore and 3-4 in the district finals with Grand Valley. Heckert, Nathan Bryant and Brayden Myers are the lone senior starters for Lake Center, Heckert an Arizona Western JC commit and Bryant an Ohio State signee. Head coach Shane Byler has a coaching record of 227-120-1. 

#7 NORTHMOR: Northmor scored six runs on six hits in the top of the seventh to get by Fort Recovery 8-2 in the regional finals and with it the second trip to state in school history. Brody Beck went all the way for the seventh-ranked D-VI team, not allowing an earned run while fanning seven. Jack Bowdre, Brady Chapman and Billy Bowlin had two hits apiece for the Knights, which scored eight in the top of the seventh in the regional semis en route to a 13-4 victory over Dayton Christian. Brady Carr had a pair of singles and a double while Ethan Hinton, Chapman, Bowling and Beck produced two hits each. Beck threw a complete game and Northmor knocked off top-ranked West Jefferson 5-4 for a district championship after defeating Grandview Heights by an identical score in the district semis behind the strong pitching of senior Trevor Brubaker, who was also the winner against Dayton Christian. Brubaker now has 27 career pitching wins, 282 Ks and a career ERA of 0.96. The only other trip to state for Northmor came in 1995. Head coach Buck Workman has a career record of 332-305.

#2 HILAND: Defending Division VI state champion Hiland will be making its fourth consecutive trip to state after a pair of 12-0 wins in regionals. Mike Miller threw five two-hit innings of a regional final win over Mechanicsburg, with Jonah Yoder going 3-4 and Gerut Monigold driving home four. Andre Yoder tossed a two-hitter in the semifinals versus Waterford with Gerut Monigold 4-4 with two doubles, a triple and five RBIs. The Hawks trailed 2-0 before rolling past Fort Frye 11-2 in the district finals for a trip to regionals for the 16th time. Andre Yoder hit a single and double, drove in two while also pitching three shutout innings of relief. Grady Monigold was 2-2 with a home run and two RBIs and Griffin Monigold had a double and three RBIs in beating Buckeye Trail 6-1. Miller threw a four-hitter with 13 Ks after tossing a no-hitter in the sectionals in an 11-1 victory over Bridgeport. Grady Monigold, a Malone recruit, has set season records at the school for home runs with 11 and RBIs with 49 and career marks for homers with 20 and RBIs with 134. Chris Dages has a coaching record of 203-34 at Hiland, which is making its eighth state appearance, winning it all the last three seasons as well as 2016, while finishing as runners-up three times.

#3 ST. HENRY: This will mark the seventh state appearance for St. Henry after the third-ranked team in D-VI rolled past Seneca East 11-6 in the regional finals. Drew Langenkamp was 3-5 for the Redskins, which produced 10 hits in beating Patrick Henry 6-5 in the semifinals, with Jake Schwieterman going 3-4. St. Henry advanced to regionals for the 26th time in school history by beating Colonel Crawford 7-4 with Schwieterman and Austin Kunk going 3-4. Max Delzeith fanned a dozen in an 8-0 two-hit blanking of Parkway in the district semis. Langenkamp went 3-3 while scoring four runs. Indiana Tech commit Owen Zimmerman had three base knocks as did Kunk and Hudson Schmitz in a 21-0 beatdown of Ada in sectionals. The team has set the school record for stolen bases with 123, surpassing the prevous record of 120 set in 1999. St. Henry, 26-3 this season, is 1,428-596 all-time in baseball with the last trip to state coming in 2023. There have been three state championship squads, 1999, 2000 and 2003. Former MLB outfielder Wally Post was a member of the 1945 and 46 state teams and is the great grandfather of right fielder Tate Boeckman.  

#4 Lake Center Christian

Record: 23-4-1
Head Coach: Shane Byler
Final Ranking: No. 4
Preseason Ranking: No. 2
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 2025, 2026
• State Runner-up: 2025
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics: 

• Offense: Team Average: .342, Total Runs: 244
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 180.2, Team ERA: 1.55, Strikeouts: 284

Top Players:

• Grant Coblentz, LF/P, 2027
• Luke Heckert, CF/P, 2026
• Caleb Shelly, SS/P, 2027
• Nathan Bryant, 3B/P, 2026
• Colton Smilek, C/UTL/P, 2027
• Jacob Rainieri, 1B/P, 2027
• Paul Dussel, UTL, 2028
• Nolan Rush, UTL, 2029
• Aaron Zietlow, UTL, 2029
• Benson Bryant, UTL/P, 2028
• Josh Bittaker, UTL, 2028
• Joel Stafinsky, UTL, 2028

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: We have a VERY hard-working group and each of them took it upon themselves to work extremely hard in the offseason. We also approach every team event with great enthusiasm, focus and effort, knowing that it will lead to continued improvement and prepare us for our ultimate team goal.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: We knew we were capable from day 1, but we're very excited to see it come to fruition and now we're ready to do more.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We're currently firing on all cylinders.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: We'll never take anything for granted and it felt really good to officially punch our ticket back to Akron. Every member of our Baseball Program (coaches, parents, supporters and MOST importantly the players, past and present) is part of the continued success of our Program.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: We've burnt the boats and there is only 1 option at this point.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: We have great respect for all of our opponents and we're excited for the opportunity to play all of them.

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: We're thrilled and honored to represent our school in Akron, and we greatly appreciate our community's continued support. We will give them our best and we will continue to aim to glorify God in the way we play the game.

#7 Northmor

Record: 25-5
Head Coach: Buck Workman
Final Ranking: No. 7
Preseason Ranking: No. 21

Postseason History: 

• State Final Four: 1995
• State Runner-up: None
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics: 

• Offense: Team Average: 342, Total Runs: 241
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 196, Team ERA: 2.21, Strikeouts: 260

Top Players: 

• Jack Bowdre, 1B/LHP, 2027
• Trevor Brubaker, RHP/SS, 2026
• Brady Chapman, CF, 2028
• Billy Bowlin, RF/LHP, 2026
• Ethan Hinton, C, 2027
• Brody Beck, RHP/LF/DH/3B, 2028
• Brooksten Beck, DH/3B, 2026
• Brendan Barber, SS/3B, 2028
• Brady Carr, 2B, 2026
• Brad Bowlin, LF, 2028
• Finn Fesler, 3B, 2029

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: A lot of our guys play together in the summer and that has helped.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: We've always believed we can compete with anyone on our schedule. After beating West Jeff, I think our confidence went up tremendously.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: It's a close knit group that plays for each other and they don't seem to get rattled by the magnitude of the situation.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: I was just really happy for them and our community, who always shows up in masses to support our guys.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: This is what every kid and coach strives to achieve. We're just going to give it our all and see what happens.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: Lake Center, Hiland and St. Henry are all outstanding teams loaded with talent. We're going to have to play a complete and clean 7 innings to compete with all of them.

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: Thank you to our community for all their support! Our fans, sponsors, administration and everyone involved just make it an even better experience for our boys.

#2 Hiland

Record: 24-4
Head Coach: Chris Dages
Final Ranking: No. 2
Preseason Ranking: No. 1
Postseason History: 

• State Final Four: 2012
• State Runner-up: 2000, 2008, 2017
• State Championship: 2016, 2023, 2024, 2025

Team Statistics:

Offense: Team Average: .352, Total Runs: 228
Pitching: Innings Pitched: 177.1, Team ERA: 1.11, Strikeouts: 191

Top Players: 

• Gerut Monigold, OF/P, 2026
• Grady Monigold, 1B/P, 2026
• Griffin Monigold, C, 2026
• Isaiah Wagler, SS, 2026
• Mike Miller, OF/P, 2026
• Logan Yoder, 2B, 2026
• Andre Yoder, 3B/P, 2026
• Christian Mullet, OF, 2027
• Jonah Yoder, 1B, 2027
• Damon Troyer, 3B/P, 2027

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: Guys got to work right away in the summer of 2025 to prepare for this tournament run. In the winter months they worked hard on their fielding, hitting and pitching skills, along with a challenging lifting schedule. We played a difficult schedule during the regular season to get us ready for the tournament run.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: These guys believed right from the start that they had the ability to get back to the state games. 

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: Our pitching is doing an amazing job limiting the other teams chances to score and our defense is playing clean behind them. Offensively the whole line up is putting together a lot of quality at bats.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: I was extremely happy for these guys. They have been working for this opportunity for a long time. They have put themselves into a great situation to bring home a championship.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: A state championship has been our goal all season and now we've put ourselves into position to do just that. It is a rare and unique experience to be in this position and one that we do not take for granted.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: St. Henry, Lake Center and Northmor are all excellent programs and have had outstanding seasons. Regardless of the poll you look at, the four teams at state can be found at the top. It is going to be a battle for whoever brings home the trophy in 2026.

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: I'd like to thank the community of East Holmes for their support of our program and of Hiland High School as a whole. The parents and players have poured a lot of time and energy into the program and we wouldn't be where we are today without their efforts. The coaches on this team are the best in the state in my opinion. They love the game and relish the opportunity to work with these young players. Thank you to Richie, Kevin, Jordan and Chad for all you do within the Hiland baseball family.

#3 St. Henry

Record: 26-3
Head Coach: Mike Gast
Final Ranking: No. 3
Preseason Ranking: No. 25
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 1945, 1946, 1999, 2000, 2003, 2023, 2026
• State Runner-Up: 1945, 1946
• State Championship: 1999, 2000, 2003

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .383, Runs: 309
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 183, Team ERA: 1.83, Strikeouts: 204

Top Players:

• Tate Boeckman, RF/P, 2027
• Drew Langenkamp, C, 2027
• Owen Zimmerman, 3B/P, 2026
• Jake Schwieterman, 1B, 2026
• Carter LaGuire, DH, 2026
• Austin Zimmerman, SS, 2028
• Austin Kunk, 2B, 2027
• Hudson Schmitz, LF/P, 2026
• Jack Huelsman, CF, 2026
• Max Delzeith, P, 2026
• Jack Buschur, P, 2026

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: Our program’s run last summer to the ACME State Championship and Junior ACME State Runner-Up really propelled us into the fall and had our guys in a great position to work through our fall hitting/throwing program. We had a great offseason through the fall and winter, and our 11 seniors have been tremendous leaders as they’ve worked tirelessly and unselfishly through the spring.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: Last summer’s ACME State Championship was a big deal for us. ACME is really good baseball played within your school/program, so our guys got the chance to be part of a big stage and find success together through the summer.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We’ve had a very unselfish and disciplined approach at the plate and different guys have contributed throughout the entire spring. They’re having a lot of fun on the bench and on the field; it’s a great group of guys, and we’re very happy to have gotten the chance to be with them through the last week of the baseball season.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: Getting the chance to represent our school and community at the state level is a tremendous honor, so there was a lot of pride for our guys with what they were able to accomplish. They showed a lot of toughness through both regional games, and that was pretty awesome to see that mental fortitude pay off for them with the regional championship.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: St. Henry loves its sports teams; it’s a unique and awesome school/community to be a part of, and I’m extremely happy for our guys that they’ve gotten the chance to unite the community once again as we move into another state tournament. We know the task ahead will not be an easy one, but we know the community is behind us as we move into Thursday.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: We have a whole lot of respect for all three teams remaining in Division VI. Hiland obviously has had a ton of success and will bolster a very talented lineup; we look forward to the opportunity to compete our tails off against them on Thursday. Like Hiland, Lake Center Christian and Northmor both have had great years, and the state championship game will be a battle no matter who is left on Friday.

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Division VII

Division VII State Bracket

• #1 Calvert vs #7 Delphos St. John's
• #27 Leipsic vs #18 South Webster

#1 CALVERT (TIFFIN): Top-ranked Tiffin Calvert has dominated in tournament play, outscoring opponents 63-6. Calvert won regional games over Maplewood 16-5 in the semifinals and Central Christian 10-0 in the finals after beating Cardinal Stritch 17-0, Lakeside Danbury 11-0 and South Central 9-1 in the first three tourney contests. Logan Ritzler pitched a two-hit shutout versus Central Christian with Charlie Palm driving in three runs and scoring twice. Vincenzo Lyons was 3-3 with three runs and two RBIs versus Maplewood and AJ Shoemaker 2-2 with two runs and two RBIs. Lyons was also 3-3 in the district finals and Ritzler 2-2 with two runs and two RBIs versus Danbury. Lyons and Tucker King went 2-2 against Stritch. Ritzler has thrown 16 innings with 24 Ks while not permitting an earned run in the tourney. AJ Shoemaker, a Lorain County CC commit, now has 131 career hits to pass the record held by Nick Palm. Charlie Palm has tied the school mark of 14 doubles in a season held by Nick Palm and now has 30 stolen bases to pass the single-season stolen base record held previously by Eric Lee. Cameron Moyer is the new career RBI leader with 125, passing Mason Johnson. This marks the fourth state trip in five years for Calvert, which lost in the semifinals the previous three appearances, including 6-4 to Newark Catholic last year. Matt Coleman now has a 234-72-1 record as head coach of Calvert, which this season has scored 324 runs in 29 games with a .276 batting average and .499 OBP.

#7 DELPHOS ST. JOHN’S: Delphos St. John’s is two wins from duplicating the accomplishment of a state championship by the basketball team back in March. Andrew Elwer fired a six-hit shutout to beat Newton 3-0 after Cam Elwer, a Furman basketball commit, did not permit an earned run in an 8-1 victory over Fort Loramie in the regional semis. Cam Elwer was 3-4 and drove in two and Brayden Klaus threw out a runner at home plate in the first inning against Newton while Andrew Elwer had two doubles and scored three runs versus Fort Loramie. Andrew Elwer and Braden Lindeman teamed up for a two-hit shutout in a 9-0 blanking of Mohawk in the district title game. The Blue Jays, which have a tournament ERA of 0.677, have outscored the opposition 60-4 in the tourney, including wins over Lima Temple Christian 23-0 and Delphos Jefferson 17-3, and batted .412 with runners in scoring position in the regionals. For the tournament Jerry Jackson's team is batting .415 with 60 runs in five games featuring 25 extra-base hits. This will be the second state appearance for DSJ, the other coming in 2011. 

#27 LEIPSIC: Leipsic came through with two runs in the bottom of the sixth and three in the seventh to shock Montpelier 6-5 in the regional finals, earning a state berth for the second time ever. A two-run single from Colin Niese tied the game and John Dewar capped off the comeback by driving in Niese with the game-winning run. Leipsic trailed New Riegel 3-1 heading to the fifth before coming back to win 6-3 in the semis. Niese was 3-3 while Aaron Hazelton threw four innings of one-hit shutout relief for the victory. The Vikings beat state-ranked Putnam County League rival Kalida for the second time this year in the district semifinals and then romped over Edgerton 10-0 for a trip to regionals. Niese drove in two runs in the 4-3 win over Kalida while Hazelton threw a three-hit shutout and went 3-4 with two RBIs versus Edgerton. Dewar fanned 15 in a three-hitter to beat North Baltimore 7-1 in sectionals for head coach Darren Henry, who picked up his 400th coaching win this season and is now 413-221. Leipsic’s lone previous state appearance came in 1976 when the Vikings beat Cuyahoga Heights 6-5 in the Class A championship game.

#18 SOUTH WEBSTER: South Webster pushed across the lone run of the game in the bottom of the 12th with consecutive two-out singles from 7-8-9 hole hitters Cole Bennett, Sam Murphy and Brayden Barnard to beat Strasburg-Franklin 1-0 in the regional finals. Freshman Easton Large struck out 11 in 11.1 innings with Jacob McGraw getting the last two outs. The Jeeps, in their fourth regional appearance since 2017 and third in the last four years, did not have a hit until the fifth inning but came back from a 2-0 hole to stun perennial state power Newark Catholic 4-2 in the regional semifinals. In winning districts with a 15-9 victory over Portsmouth Clay, Benaiah Andrews, Large, Pierce Kreischer and Bennett all had three hits for the Jeeps, which scored 11 runs in the fifth to capture back-to-back district titles for the first time ever. One of two schools in the country with the "Jeep" mascot (Northeast Dubois, Ind.), South Webster defeated Whiteoak 8-1 in the district semifinals with Hunter Barnard producing three hits and Andrews throwing a three-hitter.  The 21 wins this season times the school record set last year. This is the first time to state for South Webster, which did advance to the eight-team state tournament in 1941 under the name "Bloom Township."

#1 Calvert (Tiffin)

Record: 27-2
Head Coach: Matt Coleman
Final Ranking: No. 1
Preseason Ranking: No. 1
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 2022, 2023, 2025, 2026
• State Runner-up: None
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics: 

• Offense: Team Average: .376, Total Runs: 324
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 177, Team ERA: 1.38, Strikeouts: 257

Top Players:

• Vincenzo Lyons, LF/P, 2027
• AJ Shoemaker, RF/P, 2026
• Charlie Palm, SS/P, 2028
• Connor Moyer, C, 2026
• Cameron Moyer, 1B/P, 2026
• Tucker Coleman, P/OF, 2028
• Landon King, DH/P, 2028
• Branyan Coleman, CF, 2028
• Logan RItzler, 3B/P, 2026
• Braxton Shoemaker, 2B/P, 2028
• Cohen Stull, RHP, 2026

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: We were able to combine extra reps, with a disciplined and purposeful mindset to come together at the right time. With only 35-50 total boys & girls to a class, we need our student-athletes to be multi-sport athletes and this seems to help them stay competitive and fresh at the same time.

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: This team believed it was possible from the start, but was also conscientious that hard work and good fortune have to work together with fortitude, discipline and attitude to create success with the talents God has given them.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: Resiliency (as evidenced after responding to our worst defensive inning in the 1st inning (5 runs given up) of Regional Semis to post 6 response runs in the first and 7 more in the 2nd)). Versatility with regard to defensive positions.

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: Gratitude to have the opportunity to play in a Final Four and allow our young men to show their talents for another week.

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: Fortunate to have a group of young men that have worked hard for years, to come together for a purpose that is meaningful as a team and for our community.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: Delphos St. John's has a great tradition, competes in an unbelievable league and has tremendous multi-sport athletes. You can say the same for Coach Henry and Leipsic and I had the opportunity to coach against him and his team back in the 2003 Regional in my first year coaching. And South Webster has been in the hunt for a Regional Title almost every year and their total team effort in the Regional this year was incredible to watch.

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: We are once again thankful to use the talents God has given us to represent our community and Calvert Catholic Schools on the State level. We appreciate the support from top to bottom and simply hope that our young men represent with class by displaying fortitude, discipline and attitude with a solid process that leads to good results on and off the field of play, overcoming struggle when necessary.

#7 Delphos St. John's

Record: 19-7
Head Coach: Jerry Jackson
Final Ranking: No. 7
Preseason Ranking: N10
Postseason History: 

• State Final Four: 2011, 2026 
• State Runner-up: None
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics: 

Offense: Team Average: .288, Total Runs: 181
Pitching: Innings Pitched: 169, Team ERA: 2.36, Strikeouts: 155

Top Players: 

• Tyce McClain, 2B, 2026
• Cam Elwer, SS/P, 2026
• Andrew Elwer, SS/3B/P, 2027
• Maddox Kroeger, DH,1B, 2026
• Drake Fittro, C, 2026
• Logan Duncan, 1B, 2027
• Jackson Wiechart, 3B/RF, 2027
• Aidan Swick, LF, 2027
• Braden Lindeman, RF/P, 2028
• Brayden Klaus, CF, 2026
• Colton Clark, P, 2026

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: The offseason begin back in December of 2025 with guys not in a winter sport. Started with 5:30 am workouts 3 days a week with Driveline and Lifting. Along with open cages twice a week. With the success of our Basketball team winning the Div. VII title we had to wait for 9 guys to arrive on the baseball team in late March.  

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: We believed we could  make a nice run in tournament this year when last season we lost to 2025 Div. VII state champ Minster Wildcats 1-0 in the District Finals.

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We talked about this to our team about peaking at the right time. This team has certainly stayed locked in and determined to stack days to win the last game of the year! Another attribute about this team is unity! They defiantly can relate with each other when things get tough. They find away to blend together with grit and toughness. 

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: Winning is fun and this team is enjoying the ride. Being Regional Champs is another accomplishment but we will certainty fight to the end for that final prize.

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: All 4 teams remaining have that goal of being State Champs. All 4 teams have not lost in tournament so far and we all are trying to win the last 2 games. This will be a dog fight and let the chips fall were they may! 

Leipsic

Record: 17-9
Head Coach: Darren Henry
Final Ranking: N10
Preseason Ranking: N10
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 2022, 2023, 2025, 2026
• State Runner-up: None
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics: 

• Offense: Team Average: .311, Total Runs: 210
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 160.1, Team ERA: 3.36, Strikeouts: 163

Top Players:

• Avery Paris, 2B, 2027
• Aaron Hazelton, SS/P, 2028
• Colin Niese, 3B/P, 2027
• John Dewar, P/3B, 2027
• Myles Camareno, C, 2027
• Mill Paniagua, RF/P, 2026
• Julian Zuniga, 1B, 2028
• Lane Vieira, LF, 2026
• Zac Lammers, CF, 2026

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: Unbelievable feeling to win Regionals; coming from behind in both games

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: We feel very honored to play in the final four. Winning a state title is the goal every year. 

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: We don’t know a lot about South Webster; obviously they are very good looking at some of the team they beat. We do know that Tiffin Calvert and Delphos St. John’s are very good as well. 

#18 South Webster

Record: 21-10
Head Coach: Ryan McClintic
Final Ranking: No. 18
Preseason Ranking: No. 7
Postseason History:

• State Final Four: 2026
• State Runner-up: None
• State Championship: None

Team Statistics:

• Offense: Team Average: .321, Total Runs: 203
  
• Pitching: Innings Pitched: 211 1/3, Team ERA: 1.97, Strikeouts: 203

Top Players:

• Hunter Barnard, SS/P, 2026
• Benaiah Andrews, P/1B, 2026
• Brycin McClintic, 2B, 2026
• Easton Large, P/1B, 2029
• Jacob McGraw, P/RF, 2026
• Pierce Kreischer, DH, 2029
• Cole Bennett, 3B, 2027
• Sam Murphy, C, 2026
• Brayden Barnard, LF, 2028
• Beau Stephens, CF, 2026

Coach's Thoughts:

PBR: What did you and your team do this offseason and regular season to prepare yourselves for this point?
Coach: After last season's loss to Newark Catholic in the Elite 8, we got together the next day and it was very clear what the goal was. You plan plans, not results, so our mentality as a program was to plan to work our tails off and get better. Most of our guys are 3 sport athletes, so it's not an easy task to work hard at everything and get better but that's exactly what they did. The regular season didn't start great for us as we lost a lot of close games and had some uncharacteristic mistakes. We didn't press the panic button and just vowed to get it fixed. We have a team full of tough kids who know how to win and love to compete, and that has been evident throughout this season. 

PBR: When did you begin to believe this team had a shot at reaching state?
Coach: Last year really showed us how good we could be if we all just worked to get better. Being so close last year and getting a taste of that type of success was the motivation we needed to get back to work. Our 3 seniors last year deserve this as much as anyone, they were the winniest group of kids to come through here in the sport of baseball and I hope they know the role they played in this. 

PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: I love the comradery of this group. When things go south we just stick together and trust the work that has been put in. That mentality and our brand of baseball has gotten us to this point and we are going to continue playing Jeep Baseball this weekend. We are a very connected group and I have an amazing coaching staff that is just as passionate about South Webster Baseball as I am. 

PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won regionals?
Coach: Unbelievable feeling. Something I've thought about every single day since taking over this program. Having been to the state tournament as a player in the sport of basketball when I was a student here at South Webster, I wanted that feeling for the kids and the baseball program. This was a personal goal of mine and something I knew we could achieve with a lot of hard work and kids who are fully committed to the program. We did both of those things and here we are... But we aren't the least bit satisfied and have more work to do. 

PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the Final Four with a chance at winning a state championship?
Coach: This is the last "4 team" tournament left on the schedule. We are going to take it one game at a time like we've done all year. Friday afternoon vs. Leipsic is the biggest game of the year because it's the next one. That is our mentality. Only 7 teams in the state get to end their year with a win and we would be blessed to have that opportunity. 

PBR: Thoughts on the other three teams in your division at state?
Coach: Three very good programs will be in Canton with us this weekend. Our opponent, Leipsic, seems like a very tight knit community in a small village just like us. They have a very talented team and their kids are tough and gritty. Their coach has been there a long time and has over 400 wins so I already have a lot of respect for him and his dedication to the game of high school baseball. A lot of comparisons between our two programs and I'm excited for the opportunity to compete against them on Friday. On the top of the bracket stands two perennial powers in Ohio HS Baseball. I'm familiar with both programs because of the success that they've had in baseball and other sports throughout my life. Whoever advances to Akron on Saturday is going to have to play a very good baseball team that knows how to win. 

PBR: Anything else you would like to add, feel free to send it. Remember, this is for your players, your coaching staff and your community.
Coach: I'm just so happy for our players, coaches, and parents. We have worked so hard for this opportunity and a lot of sacrifice has gone into it. My wife and twin boys have sacrificed more than anyone with all the time I spend with these guys all year round and all the work on the field. So I hope they are proud of the accomplishments and know they've had a massive role in this. Our community deserves this so much as well. They are so supportive and always show up for us. Lastly, we are ready to compete and put on a good showing for the Southeast District and all the great baseball coaches we have in our area. It's an area of the state that is often overlooked... But we have some fantastic programs, coaches, and players at the bottom of the state and I hope they feel a part of this too. We are excited and ready for the challenge! 

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