Prep Baseball Report

2026 Spring High School Team Previews: Division VII


Dylan Hefflinger
Editor in Chief/Advanced Scout

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With 2025 now in the past, Prep Baseball Ohio is eagerly anticipating bringing the Buckeye state the best high school coverage that can be found anywhere in 2026. Starting in February, we began releasing team previews for squads across the state. Ahead, we will have Preseason All-State Teams as well as the Preseason State Rankings coming your way.

To view the full list of 2026 Team Previews that we have already completed, please click here.

If you are a coach and haven't filled out your 2026 Team Preview, click here.

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2026 Spring High School Team Previews: Division VII

Spring Team Preview: Andrews Osborne Academy Phoenix

Team Name: Andrews Osborne Academy Phoenix
Head Coach: Jay Murphy
Division: VII
2025 Record: 13-3
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Finals to Atwater Waterloo
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 6/2

Coach Outlook: "We return 6 position players, including 2nd Team all State Catcher Cooper Fiebig but the key to the team's success will be the development of our young pitching staff."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Experience
  • Potential of the Pitching Staff
  • Team Defense 

Top Returning Players:

  • Cooper Fiebig, C, 2027, 5-10, 170, L/R, 2- YR Starter,.564 AVG, 12B, 4 3B, 4 HR, 31 RBI, 28 R
  • Landyn Rossi, OF, 2027, 5-9, 165, R/R, 2-YR Starter,.333 AVG, 2 3B, 14 RBI, 14 R, 11 SB
  • Andrew Ihnat IF/OF, 2028, 5-9, 160, R/R 1- YR Starter, .332 AVG, 14 RBI, 17 R, 5 SB

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Gijs Thiessens. 6-2, SS/C/RHP 175, R/R - International Student from the Netherlands

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Cooper Fiebig
  • Landyn Rossi

2026 Spring Team Preview: Antwerp Archers

Team Name: Antwerp Archers
Head Coach: Austin Lichty
Division: VII
2025 Record: 4-16
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in Sectional Final to Edgerton
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 4/2

Coach Outlook: "Our main goal for the year is to get better everyday."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Infield Defense

Top Returning Players:

  • Luke Parrett, SS/RHP, 2027
  • Lucas Sproles, LHP/1B/OF, 2027
  • Michael Rohrs, C/Util, 2027
  • Riley Smith, 3B/1B, 2027

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Luke Parrett
  • Riley Smith
  • Michael Rohrs
  • Lucas Sproles

2026 Spring Team Preview: Arlington Red Devils 

Team Name: Arlington Red Devils 
Head Coach: Aaron Cheney 
Division: VII
2025 Record: 4-18
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost Sectional Final to Arcadia 
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 7/3

Coach Outlook: "We return a large group of players from last year. Hoping to take steps forward and compete every night out. We need to improve our ability to throw the ball and catch the ball at every position to make this happen. We should have healthy competition at multiple positions that should push everyone to get better each day. Offensively we need to find ways to put the ball in ball to make the defense make plays. We cannot afford to have nights with 10+ strikeouts."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Unsure from a team that won 4 games and most of the pitching and offensive production graduated. 

Top Returning Players:

  • Cooper Hawkins, Sr. .364 AVG, 11 RBI, 11 IP, 11 K
  • Christian Branan, Jr. .204 AVG, 11 R, 19 BB, 6 SB, 12 IP, 12 K 
  • Duece Davis, Jr. 
  • Hunter George, Jr. .196 AVG, 2 2B, 5 SB 
  • Zander Collins, So. .283 AVG, 6 RBI, 5 SB, 10 R, 38.2 IP, 39 K
  • Chayse Simon, So. 

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Cooper Hawkins 
  • Wyatt Fields 
  • Michael Martin 
  • Collin Haley 

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Christian Branan 
  • Christian Branan Jr. 
  • Duece Davis Jr. 
  • Hunter George Jr. 

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Zander Collins 
  • Chayse Simon 
  • Thomas Sachenko 
  • Kyle McKitrick 

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Landon Berno 
  • Keith Davis 
  • Ryder Haley 
  • Louie Jones 
  • Kaden Line 
  • Gage Munsey 

2026 Spring Team Preview: Bishop Rosecrans Bishops

Team Name: Bishop Rosecrans Bishops
Head Coach: Seth Thompson
Division: VII
2025 Record: 13-7
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in Sectional Final to Shadyside
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 9/4

Coach Outlook: "We will be returning essentially the same starting lineup as last season with talent spread across the lineup. We are hopeful that the teams connection will lead to successful wins in difficult games. Returning a core group of seniors who are three year starters with a talented underclassman group has the coaches optimistic for the potential of a successful season."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Offense 
  • Starting Pitching
  • Defense
  • Baserunning 
  • Versatility

Top Returning Players:

  • Jacobie Balo, SS/RHP, 2028, 5-9/170 pounds, L/R. 1 year starter. Last year stats - ..548 AVG, 8 2B, 3 3B, 23 RBI, 25 R, 14 SB. 2.42 ERA, 61K, 15BB
  • Hayden Perdue, LHP/1B 2026, 6-2/220 pounds, L/L, 3 year starter. Last year stats - .439 AVG, 6 2B, 2 3B, 19 RBI, 15 R, 16 SB. 2.17 ERA, 65K, 30BB
  • Coen Grandstaff, C/RHP/SS 2026, 5-10, 160 pounds, R/R, 3 year starter. Last year stats - .409 AVG, 5 2B, 11 RBI, 28 R, 19SB. 2.10 ERA, 37K, 9BB
  • Nick Bernath, CF 2026, 5-6, 150 pounds, L/L, 3 year starter. Last year stats - .309 AVG, 2 2B, 1 3B, 15 RBI, 22 R, 14 SB

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Hayden Perdue
  • Coen Grandstaff

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Jacobie Balo

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Frankie Palandrani

2026 Spring Team Preview: Bradford Railroaders

Team Name: Bradford Railroaders
Head Coach: Joshua Fields
Division: VII
2025 Record: 1-21
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in opening round
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 8/9

Coach Outlook: "Young team with talent that will continue to build with experience."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Youth

Top Returning Players:

  • Bronson Schnurpel 2B/P, 2028, 5-10 125 lbs, 2nd team all conference 
  • Colton Gambill SS, 2026, 6-1 215 lbs, honorable mention all conference 
  • Desmond Keels 3B/P, 5-11 200 lbs

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Colton Gambill 

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Desmond Keels 

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Bronson Schnurpel 

2026 Spring Team Preview: Calvert Senecas (Tiffin)

Team Name: Calvert Senecas (Tiffin)
Head Coach: Matt Coleman
Division: VII
2025 Record: 27-4
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in State Semis to Newark Catholic 6-4
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 6/7

Coach Outlook: "We will simply keep working and pushing to get a little bit better each day and improve our disciplines on and off the field to make us better individually and as a team. We will look to turn our potential talent and strengths into a competitor that is ready to adapt and be versatile."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Experience
  • Versatility

Top Returning Players:

  • Logan Ritzler, Util/P, 2026, 6'0, 160, R/R, 3-year letterwinner, All-Ohio 3B
  • Connor Moyer C, 2026, 6'2/275, L/R. 3-year letterwinner, Ohio Northern Football Commit, 1st Team All-Ohio Catcher
  • Austin (AJ) Shoemaker OF, 2026, 6'4/175, R/R 3-year letterwinner, uncommitted, 2-time All-Ohio OF
  • Vincenzo Lyons, OF/1B/P, 2027, 6'1, 195, L/L letterwinner, uncommitted, 35 ACT, 4.0 GPA
  • Charlie Palm SS/P, 2028, 6'0/180, letterwinner
  • Tucker Coleman P/OF/Util, 2028, 6'3/200, R/R, letterwinner
  • Cameron Moyer 1B, 2026, 6'3/305, R/R, 3-year letterwinner, Walsh University Football Commit
  • Cohen Stull P/Util, 2026, 5'9/165, R/R, 3-year letterwinner, uncommitted

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Logan Ritzler
  • Austin (AJ) Shoemaker
  • Cohen Stull

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Vincenzo Lyons

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Charlie Palm
  • Tucker Coleman
  • Landon King

2026 Spring Team Preview: Cedarville Indians

Team Name: Cedarville Indians
Head Coach: Trevor Creeden
Division: VII
2025 Record: 17-7
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in Regional Final to Russia
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 6/4

Coach Outlook: "Looking to build on successful playoff run last season. Return over half off the batting order and three top pitchers. With a strong freshman class and no seniors we will still be young."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Starting Pitching
  • Defense
  • Hitting
  • Leadership

Top Returning Players:

  • Zachary Creeden, SS/RHP, 2027, 5-10/160 lbs., R/R. -2-year starter, 1st Team OHC, HM All-State Div VII. Last Year Stats- .414 AVG., .500 OBP, 7 2B, 15 RBI, 25 R, 6-1, 1.84 ERA, 56 K, 16 BB
  • Tavin Baldwin, C,IF/RHP, 2028, 5-10/175 lbs., R/R, 1 year starter, 2nd Team OHC. Last Year Stats- .349 AVG, .494 OBP, 17 RBI, 22 R, 3-1, 1.20 ERA, 15 K, 
  • Xavier Pauling, 3B/RHP, 2027, 5-11/175 lbs., R/R, 2 year starter, 2nd Team OHC. Last Year Stats- 6-4, 3.09 ERA, 66 K, .184 BAA
  • Wyatt Percival, 2B/RHP, 2028, 6-0/180, R/R, 1 year starter, .250 AVG, 22 RBI

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Zachary Creeden
  • Xavier Pauling

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Tavin Baldwin
  • Wyatt Percival

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Hudson Pauling
  • Miles Johnson
  • Maddox Rodgers

2026 Spring Team Preview: Central Catholic Saints (Tuscarawas)

Team Name: Central Catholic Saints (Tuscarawas)
Head Coach: Neil Nalawadi
Division: VII
2025 Record: 0-22
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in first round to Zanesville Rosecrans
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 9/6

Coach Outlook: "Our upper classmen had a very strong summer and gained valuable experience against quality competition. We expect our sophomores to make a major contribution this season."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Defensive strength up the middle
  • Senior and Junior Leadership

Top Returning Players:

  • Dylan Dumermuth, C, 2026, 4-year starter, Team Captain
  • Malaki Barker, INF/P, 2027, 2-year starter
  • Holden Civiello, INF/RHP, 2027, 2-year starter
  • Grady Stein, CF, 2027, 2-year starter
  • Anthony Bollon, 1B, 2-year starter
  • Ellis Jackson, INF/P, 2028, 1-year starter
  • Andrew Reiger, INF/OF/P, 2028, 1-year starter
  • Edward Bachman, INF/OF/P, 2028, 1-year starter

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Dylan Dumermuth

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Malaki Barker
  • Holden Civiello
  • Grady Stein
  • Anthony Bollon

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Ellis Jackson
  • Nicholas Lesiecki

2026 Spring Team Preview: Central Catholic Thunderbirds (Lima)

Team Name: Central Catholic Thunderbirds (Lima)
Head Coach: Joh Schnieders
Division: VII
2025 Record: 11-17
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Semis to Delphos St. John's
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 8/6

Coach Outlook: "We bring back a roster with a lot of upperclassmen and a lot of experience, so our expectation is that we will be competitive in our district."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Pitching
  • Outfield Play

Top Returning Players:

  • J.J. Schnieders, LHP/OF, 2026, 6'1/195 lbs, L/L 3 year starter, 2nd Team All-Ohio OHSBCA and PBR in 2025, 1st Team NWC, Adrian recruit
  • Brady Malcom, LHP/1B, 2026, 5'11/230lb, L/L 3 year starter, HM NWC
  • Michael Quatman, OF, 2027, 5'9/175lb, L/R, 3 year starter, 2nd Team NWC
  • Nathan Speicher, OF/IF/P, 2027, 6'2, 195, L/R transfer from Bluffton, 2nd Team NWC

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • J.J. Schnieders
  • Brady Malcom

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Michael Quatman
  • Nathan Speicher

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Brady Jacobs

2026 Spring Team Preview: Clay Panthers (Portsmouth)

Team Name: Clay Panthers (Portsmouth)
Head Coach: Kylon Crabtree
Division: VII
2025 Record: 13-11
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Semi Final to Racine Southern
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 6/4

Coach Outlook: "After graduating only 2 Seniors last season, we bring back a lot of experience on the field. Top pitchers Evan Rider (Sophomore) and Zane Ball (Senior) return and will throw many innings for us. We will also be adding a very good Freshman class that will bring many different dynamic options for our team. We have many pieces to be very successful and will look to compete each and every night out."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Defense
  • Pitching Depth

Top Returning Players:

  • Evan Rider, SS/C/RHP, 2028, 5-11/175-pounds, R/R, 1st Team All Conference, 1st Team All District. Last Year Stats- .375 AVG, 17 RBIs, 25 R, 16 SB. 5-5, 2.864 ERA, 89 K, 28 BB.
  • Zane Ball, RHP/3B, 2026, 6-0/200-pounds, R/R, 1st Team All Conference, 2nd Team All District. Last Year Stats- .373 AVG, 14 RBIs, 23 R, 22 SB. 3-4, 3.378 ERA, 47 K.
  • Aiden Ball, 1B, 2026, 6-0/200-pounds, L/L, 2nd Team All Conference, 2nd Team All District. Last Year Stats- .338 AVG, 7 2B, 1 HR, 22 RBIs, 24 R, 20 SB.

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Zane Ball
  • Aiden Ball

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Evan Rider

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Noah Woods
  • Colby Secrist
  • Bryce Whitley
  • Jackson Hannan

2026 Spring Team Preview: Conotton Valley Rockets

Team Name: Conotton Valley Rockets
Head Coach: Jim Monigold
Division: VII
2025 Record: 17-10
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Final to Strasburg
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 3/2

Coach Outlook: "After losing 6 players from last year's district runner-up team, we are looking to establish a new core group of players. We have one senior 4 year letterman returning along with three juniors who are 3 year lettermen. We will be very young with 8 expected freshman that hope to be key contributers."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Our Upper classmen will need to step up for our team to be successful.

Top Returning Players:

  • Kam Wright, CF, 3 year starter, .246 BA, 22 R, 17 H, 20 BB, 18 SB, 13 RBI
  • Garrett Reiter, Of/SS, 2 year starter, .338 BA, 26 H, 2 2B, 1 HR, 19 BB, .872 OPS, 22 RBI
  • Kaden Leggett, 2B/P, 2 year starter, .283 BA, 17 H, 2 2B,, 1-0, 2.5 ERA, 14 IP, 15 K's

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Kam Wright

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Garret Reiter
  • Kaden Leggett

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Konnor Witts

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • RJ Higgenbotham
  • Connor Lute

2026 Spring Team Preview: Crestline Bulldogs

Team Name: Crestline Bulldogs
Head Coach: Cameron Wilt
Division: VII
2025 Record: 2-20
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in sectional to South Central
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 9/6

Coach Outlook: "We had a great core of experienced players returning. This will be the first time in a while our team will have more upper-classmen than under-classmen, many of which have started their entire high school career. We will return an experienced defense and pitching staff as well as some upper-class back from injury that will play vital roles in our lineup and pitching staff."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Experience
  • Pitching
  • Defense
  • Speed

Top Returning Players:

  • Quentin Kapp, SS/RHP, 2027, R/R, 2 year starter, last year stats- .394 AVG, .463 OBP, 12 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 13 RBIs, 22 R, 16 SB. 1-9, 3.58 ERA, 79 SO, 40 BB
  • Adam Burton, C/ULT/RHP, R/R, 3 year starters, last years stats- .288 AVG, .447 OBP, 3 2B, 13 RBIs, 16 R
  • Dawson Hefner, IF/RHP, 2027, R/R, 1 year starter, Stats from last year- .250 AVG, .287 OBP, 9 2B, 9 RBIs, 15 R

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Adam Burton
  • Brayden Winemiller, C/UTL, 2026, R/R
  • Brysen Winemiller, UTL, 2026, R/R

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Quentin Kapp
  • Dawson Hefner
  • Weston Clark, OF/RHP, 2027
  • Crew Gaskill, IF/P, 2027

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Brendon Ronk, 1B/OF/LHP, L/L

2026 Spring Team Preview: Edgerton Bulldogs

Team Name: Edgerton Bulldogs
Head Coach: Michael Gilliland
Division: VII
2025 Record: 16-11
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Final to Montpelier 
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 6/5

Coach Outlook: "We return many experienced baseball players. I expect us to compete night in and night out."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Experience
  • Pitching
  • Defense

Top Returning Players:

  • Noah Weaver, 4 year Starter (12) R/R, 1B, .238 Avg, 21 RBI, 20 R
  • Maddox Baker, 3 year starter (12) L/R, SS/P, .363 Avg, 12 RBI, 31 R, Pitching: 3-4, 36 IP, 3.11 ERA, 38 Ks 
  • Jackson Flower, 3 year starter (12) R/R, C, .333 AVG 19 RBI 23 R
  • Kellen Sanchez, 3 year starter (11) R/R, IF/P, .411 Avg, 26 RBI, 27 R, Pitching: 5-2, 36.1 IP, 3.08 ERA, 39 K

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Maddox Baker
  • Noah Weaver

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Kellen Sanchez

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Myles Baker (IF/P)

2026 Spring Team Preview: Edon Bombers

Team Name: Edon Bombers
Head Coach: Creed Muehlfeld
Division: VII
2025 Record: 12-10-1
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Semifinal to Montpelier
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 5/3

Coach Outlook: "The overall outlook for the season is to develop our young players by gaining valuable game experience, while continuing to compete at the high standard that Edon Baseball is known for."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Speed
  • Defense
  • Coachability
  • Baseball IQ 

Top Returning Players:

  • Corbin Chrisman, 3B/RHP, 2027, 5-11,160-pounds 2 Year starter - 0.323 AVG, 9 RBIs, 14 SB, 2-1 W/L 7.13 ERA 
  • Korbin Olds, SS/RHP, 2028, 5-10, 140-pounds, 1 year starter- 0.365 AVG, 10 RBIs 7 SB, 0-1 W/L 9.84 ERA 
  • Lane Brandt, 1B/LHP, 2 Year starter, 6'3 180 Pounds- 0.150 AVG, 5 RBI, 1 SB, 1-1 W/L 4.77 ERA
  • Braeden Wehrle, ULT, 2 Year starter 6'0 160 Pounds- 0.365 AVG, 14 RBIs, 10 SB
  • Kadin Stantz, C/OF, 2 year starter, 5'9 140 pounds - 0.267 AVG, 6 RBIs, 14 SB
  • Wyatt Wheeler, OF/RHP, 1 Year Starter 5'10 150 pounds - 0.375 AVG, 1 RBA, 4 SB
  • Gage Cisneros, ULT/RHP, 0 year starter 5'10 140 pounds- 0.000 AVG, 0 RBIs
  • Cayden Thiel, ULT/RHP, 0 year starter 5'8 130 pounds - 0.000 AVG, 0

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Corbin Chrissman
  • Lane Brandt 
  • Braeden Wehrle 
  • Kadin Stantz

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Korbin Olds 
  • Wyatt Wheeler 
  • Gage Cisneros

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Brady Hand, C/OF
  • TJ Wehrle, ULT

2026 Spring Team Preview: Fairfield Christian Academy Knights

Team Name: Fairfield Christian Academy Knights
Head Coach: Josh Baker
Division: VII
2025 Record: 18-9
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Final to West Jefferson, 1-0
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 7/7

Coach Outlook: "We will be led by a trio of seniors that have been major contributors for the prior 3 years, we will lean on their leadership as we again take on an extremely challenging schedule."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Leadership
  • Pitching
  • Defense 

Top Returning Players:

  • AJ Holbrook, P/CF, 2026 - SR - 3 year starter, Last year stats - .456 AVG, 43R Scored, 40SB, 2HR, 2 time MSL Pitcher of the Year - 6-2 Record, 2 saves, 1.53 ERA, 77K's, 10 BB. 1st Team All District, 1st Team all League
  • Brayden Stem, C/P 2026 - SR - 3 year starter - .383 AVG, 32 RBI, 7 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 19SB - 13 of 26 runners CS, Pitching - 7-2 Record, 1 save, 72K's, 14 BBs, 1.28 ERA - Lake Erie College Commit, 1st Team All District, 1st Team All League
  • Caleb White - SS/P - 2026 - SR - 3 year starter - MVNU Commit, .405 AVG, 7 2Bs, 4 3B, 1 HR, 25 RBI, 32 Runs, 19 SB - 2nd Team All State SS, 1st Team All District, 1st Team All League

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Brayden Stem
  • Caleb White
  • AJ Holbrook

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Josh Witte - OF, .268 AVG, 24 RBI, 18 Runs Scored
  • Connor Blair - 3B 

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Connor Perkins - transfer from Lancaster HS - C/OF

2026 Spring Team Preview: Fairfield Lions (Leesburg)

Team Name: Fairfield Lions (Leesburg)
Head Coach: Kyle Zimmerman
Division: VII
2025 Record: 10-10
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Semi-Finals to South Webster
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 4/3

Coach Outlook: "We will be a younger team but will be ready to go. What we may lack in experience we gain in aggressiveness. These young men are eager to get their shot and are wanting to make the most of it."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Upperclassman leadership
  • Speed
  • Defense 

Top Returning Players:

  • Cameron Miller, RHP/SS, 2027, 5-9/160, 2-year starter, .224 AVG, 2 2B, 9 RBI, 19 R, 5 SB. 3-2, 5.6 ERA, 34 K, 28 BB 
  • Ben Miller, RHP/SS, 2026, 6-2/180, 2-year starter, .224 AVG, 4 2B, 12 RBI, 10 R, 4 SB. 3-0, 4.75 ERA, 33 K, 27 BB 

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Ben Miller

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Cameron Miller

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Weston Baldwin

2026 Spring Team Preview: Fort Loramie Redskins

Team Name: Fort Loramie Redskins
Head Coach: Jeff Sanders
Division: VII
2025 Record: 16-10
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Final to Cedarville, 2-0
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 6/5

Coach Outlook: "We have a great group of Seniors for 2026 and they are ready to make their mark. We had a good Acme tournament run and those same players are ready to achieve their goals in the 2026 season."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Senior Leadership
  • Returning Experience.

Top Returning Players:

  • Carson Arnold, P/OF, 2026 (WSU-Lake Commit) 
  • Alex Boeke, OF/1B, 2026
  • Chase Bornhorst, SS, 2026
  • Jack Cotner, IF/OF/P, 2026
  • Zac Dues, 2B/Util, 2026
  • Sam Goubeaux, IF/OF/P, 2026
  • Johnston Hollenbacher, OF, 2026
  • Jace Ruhenkamp, P/1B, 2026

2026 Spring Team Preview: Green Bobcats (Franklin Furnace)

Team Name: Green Bobcats (Franklin Furnace)
Head Coach: David Shoupe
Division: VII
2025 Record: 18-6
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in Regional Semifinals to Newark Catholic 7-1
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 7/5

Coach Outlook: "We lose valuable leadership from last year's seniors but bring back a lot of experience and leadership from this years seniors. We started two freshmen and two sophomores last season who all contributed to last years district title. We also return one player who was out for all of last season from a basketball injury."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Pitching Depth
  • Experience
  • Resilience
  • Work Ethic

Top Returning Players:

  • Jonathan Knapp, 1B/RHP, 2026, Rio Grande commit, .333 AVG, 11 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 27 RBI 4 SO; 7-2. 1.48 ERA, 114 Ks, Pitched 1 No Hitter, Pitched 3 Shutouts.
  • Mason Neal, OF, 2026: .343 AVG, 9 RBIs, .450 OBP
  • Gabe Blevins, SS/C/RHP, 2027: .324 AVG, 9 2B, 1 3B, 13 RBI, 25 R, 19 BB, .479 OBP; 2-1, 13 Ks, Pitched 1 Shutout

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Jonathan Knapp
  • Mason Neal
  • Uriah Satterfield (UT)
  • Connor Blanton (OF)
  • Brennan Renison (UT/RHP)

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Gabe Blevins
  • Noah McMackin (C)
  • Carson Johnson (OF)

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Kase McIntyre (IF/RHP)
  • Riddick Jenkins (IF/RHP)

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Luke Kimbler

2026 Spring Team Preview: Holgate Tigers

Team Name: Holgate Tigers
Head Coach: Tim Kelly
Division: VII
2025 Record: 5-15
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost In Sectionals
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 5/3

Coach Outlook: "Should improve as season goes forward"

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Starting Pitching
  • Hitting

Top Returning Players:

  • Austin Medina, IB, SR, .379 AVG, 3 Year Starter, Team Captain
  • Vincent Peck, P/RF, JR, .327 AVG
  • Grady Hoffer, P/ OF, JR, .319 AVG
  • Zac Borcker, P/SS, JR, .278 AVG

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Austin Medina

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Zac Borcker
  • Grady Hoffer
  • Vincent Peck

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Izahya Martinez

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Colton Wilhelm

2026 Spring Team Preview: Kalida Wildcats

Team Name: Kalida Wildcats
Head Coach: Chad Ehrnsberger
Division: VII
2025 Record: 19-9
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Finals
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 7/7

Coach Outlook: "We have the talent and the experience to do something special this year, the question is will we execute when it matters."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Starting Pitching
  • Defense
  • Experience

Top Returning Players:

  • Griffin Klausing, P/1b, 2026, 3 year starter, .363 AVG, 6-0, 43.2 IP, 1.76 ERA
  • Caden Looser, P/OF, 2026, 3 year starter, .317 AVG, 21.2 IP, 2.58 ERA
  • Jaxon Hoffman, P/INF, 2026, 3 year starter, 27.2 IP, 4.04 ERA
  • Owen Siebeneck, P/INF, 2026, .286 AVG, 24.2 IP, 1.98 ERA
  • Adam Bockrath, C, 2027, 3 year starter
  • Logan Kerner, OF, 2026, 3 year starter, .300 AVG
  • Nathan Kahle, SS, 2026, 3 year starter, .300 AVG
  • Zach Unverferth, P/INF, 2027, 9.2 IP, 2.89 ERA

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Griffin Klausing
  • Caden Looser
  • Jaxon Hoffman

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Adam Bockrath
  • Josh Schulte

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Gavin Leis
  • Brady Unverferth

2026 Spring Team Preview: McComb Panthers

Team Name: McComb Panthers
Head Coach: Ross Shoup
Division: VII
2025 Record: 12-15
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Semifinal to Hardin Northern, 4-2
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 5/3

Coach Outlook: "This year we return 8 lettermen from our 2025 season, and look to build off of that experience. This season will be about our team growing in their roles, and going to battle for each other. We want to compete in the BVC, and play our best baseball going into the tournament."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Pitching
  • Defense

Top Returning Players:

  • Grady Schroeder, C/Util, SR
  • Brayden Welty, P/IF, SR
  • Cameron Smith, OF/P, SR
  • Jace Wartgow, 3B/P, JR
  • Kahle Drown, SS/P, JR
  • Grant Schaublin, 1B/P, JR
  • Luke Kern, OF/1B/P, SO
  • Camden Swain, IF/P, SO

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Grady Schroeder
  • Brayden Welty
  • Cameron Smith

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Kahle Drown
  • Jace Wartgow
  • Grant Schaublin

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Luke Kern
  • Camden Swain

2026 Spring Team Preview: Miller City Wildcats

Team Name: Miller City Wildcats
Head Coach: Dusty Pester
Division: VII
2025 Record: 23-6
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in Regional Semifinal to Montpelier 
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 5/3

Coach Outlook: "We have numerous holes to fill after losing 7 quality seniors including 1st Team PCL pitcher Andrew Weis, and PCL POY and 1st Team All State Catcher Brendan Barlage. We are excited about our varsity returning players and look forward to filling those spots around them. If we can come together as a team we have a chance to have a successful season."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • We should have a solid defensive team and as long as our pitching staff throws strikes we should be able to compete in most games. The top portion of our lineup will be experienced. 

Top Returning Players:

  • Jonathon Pester, INF/RHP, 2026, 6-2/195 pounds, L/R, UNOH commit, 2025 PBR-Ohio 2nd Team 2-way player. Last Year's Stats - .353 AVG, 11 2B, 2 HR, 37 RBIs, 24 runs. Pitching 5-0, 1 Save, 1.95 ERA, 33 K, 23 BB in 32.1 Innings.
  • Jack Wenzinger, SS/2B/ RHP, 2027, 5-6/155 pounds, S/R, 2025 PBR-Ohio 2nd Team 2-way player, Last Year's Stats - .365 AVG, 4 2B, 18 RBIs, 36 Runs, Pitching 6-1, 1 Save, 2.087 ERA, 58 K, 17 BB in 53.2 innings.
  • Max Long, CF/LHP, 2027, 5-8/175 Pounds, L/L, Last Year's Stats - .359 AVG, 8 2B, 3 3B, 1 HR, 25 RBIs, 34 Runs

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Jonathon Pester

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Max Long
  • Jack Wenzinger

2026 Spring Team Preview: Minster Wildcats

Team Name: Minster Wildcats
Head Coach: Mike Wiss
Division: VII
2025 Record: 26-6
2025 Tourney Finish: Division VII State Champions
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 3/4

Coach Outlook: "Have spots to fill -- and some big shoes in the order and on the mound."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Defense

Top Returning Players:

  • Reese Beair, 2B, .381, Wittenberg signee 
  • Andrew Wiss, SS/P, .282, 2-2, 32 IP, 2.14 ERA, WSU-Lake Campus signee
  • Jace Hemmelgarn, OF/IF, 3-0, 6.46 ERA, .286
  • Andrew Ketner, OF/P, .375, 3-0, 3.03 ERA

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Reese Beair

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Carson Kaylor

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • James Kuehner

2026 Spring Team Preview: Montpelier Locomotives

Team Name: Montpelier Locomotives
Head Coach: Toby Hutchison
Division: VII
2025 Record: 20-6
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in Regional Final to Minster
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 8/6

Coach Outlook: "As we head into the 2026 season, there’s a genuine sense of excitement around Montpelier baseball. This group combines experienced leaders with a promising core of young talent. What stands out most about this year’s Locomotives is their mindset. They’re hungry, coachable, and committed to doing the little things right. We've preached playing clean defense, competing in every at-bat, and trusting one another in big moments. Losing in the regional final to the eventual state champ Minster Wildcats helped to create a sense of motivation for out team. While that game eventually came down to execution and composure, it also revealed just how close this team is to reaching its goals of returning to state for the first time since 2003. With the introduction of some new faces and the return of a majority of our production, we look to compete every day."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Pitching Depth: Multiple arms capable of competing in high-pressure situations, allowing flexibility throughout the season and keeping opponents off balance.
  • Defensive Fundamentals: A strong emphasis on clean, consistent defense with players who communicate well and take pride in making routine plays when they matter most.
  • Disciplined Offense: An unselfish lineup that focuses on quality at-bats, plate discipline, and situational hitting rather than individual statistics.
  • Mental Toughness: Built from last season’s regional final experience, this team shows resilience, composure, and confidence in tight games.
  • Team Chemistry: Players understand their roles, trust one another, and prioritize team success over personal recognition.
  • Preparation & Work Ethic: A group committed to daily improvement, accountability, and bringing intensity to both practices and games.
  • Leadership: Strong leaders on and off the field who set the tone, keep standards high, and help younger players continue to grow.

Top Returning Players:

  • Wesley Hartsock - RHP/SS, 2027, 6-3, R/R, 2-Year Starter. 2nd Team OHSBCA All State. 2nd Team PBR D7 All State. 1st Team All District. 1st Team All BBC. Pitching - 10-2, 1.881 ERA, 67.0 IP, 81 K’s, 33BB, Hitting - .359 AVG, .481 OBP, 25RBI, 14 SB
  • Kenneth Smeltzer - SS/RHP, 2026, 6-2, R/R, 3-Year Starter. 1st Team PBR D7 All State. 1st Team All District. 1st Team All BBC. Pitching - 5-0, 1 SV, 1.11 ERA, 56.2 IP, 59 K's, 17 BB, Hitting - .297 AVG, .475 OBP, 25 RBI, 23 SB
  • CJ Fidler - OF, 2028, 6-2, R/R, 1-Year Starter. 2nd Team All District. 1st Team All BBC. Batting - .388 AVG, .468 OBP, 18 RBI, 7 SB
  • Malachi Smeltzer - C/OF, 2028, 6-1, R/R, 1-Year Starter. HM All BBC
  • Griffin Cooley - OF/C, 2026, 6-1 R/R, 3-Year Starter. HM All BBC

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Kenneth Smeltzer
  • Griffin Cooley
  • Jaxon Stahler - 3B/RHP, 5-10 , R/R, 3-Year Starter.
  • Hayden Sharps - 1B/RHP, 6-2, R/R, 3-Year Starter.

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Wesley Hartsock
  • Kade Stewart - Move in from North Central - UTIL, 5-9 , R/R, 2-Year Starter

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • C.J. Fidler
  • Malachi Smeltzer 
  • Jacob Lyons - 2B, 5-9 , R/R 1- year starter
  • Zaine Stull - Move in from Edon - UTIL, 6-0, R/R

2026 Spring Team Preview: Newton Indians

Team Name: Newton Indians
Head Coach: Jordan Kopp
Division: VII
2025 Record: 19-9
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Final 6-5
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 6/4

Coach Outlook: "We’re excited to get the season started. We’ll be led by six seniors, three of whom have been four-year starters for us. We return our entire pitching staff, and if our offense can take the next step, we believe we’ll be a tough team to beat. Our goal is to compete for a league title and win a district championship."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Leadership
  • Pitchers
  • Defense 

Top Returning Players:

  • Sr. Austin Tippie- Thomas More Commit (#1 pitcher)
  • Sr. Rhett Koffer- Leading hitter 
  • Sr. Will Bowser- Catcher
  • Jr. Cole Alexander- #2 arm and leadoff hitter

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Rhett Koffer
  • Austin Tippie
  • Will Bowser

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Cole Alexander

2026 Spring Team Preview: Plymouth Big Red Vikings

Team Name: Plymouth Big Red Vikings
Head Coach: Adam Beverly
Division: VII
2025 Record: 15-11
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost District Semi Finals to Mohawk
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 8/4

Coach Outlook: "Feel will be a very positive year, should contend for league title. Have a few very talented freshmen coming on bored this season."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Pitching
  • Leadership
  • Offense
  • Defense 

Top Returning Players:

  • Jarrett Burrer P/SS RHP/LHH, 2026, 6’3 185 SR 3 year starter Team Captain. Last years stats: .338 AVG, 19 RBI, 26 Hits, 9-2B, 3-3B, 29 Runs, 11 SB. Pitching: 2.41 6-3, 85 K, 20 BB
  • Lex Grose 1st Base LFH, 2026 6’1 210 SR 3 year starter. Last Years Stats: .432 AVG, 39 RBI, 32 Hits, 12-2B, 17 Runs, 11SB, 2HRS 12-2B
  • Keegan Beverly C/2B RH, 2027 5’11 175 JR 2 Year Starter. Last Years Stats: .330 AVG, 32 Runs, 30 Hits, 11 RBI, 16 SB. Threw Out-23
  • Lincoln Distl P/SS RH, 2027 6’0 185 JR 2 year starter, Last Yeats Stats: .356, 24 Runs, 21 RBI, 8-2B, 1-3B, Pitching: 4.06 ERA, 42 K’s, 28 BB, 3-4

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Jarrett Burrer
  • Lex Grose

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Keegan Beverly
  • Lincoln Distl

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Evan King
  • Weston Kamman

2026 Spring Team Preview: Saint John Heralds (Ashtabula)

Team Name: Saint John Heralds (Ashtabula)
Head Coach: Alvin Rodriguez
Division: VII
2025 Record: 19-6
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in regional semis to JFK
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 3/3

Coach Outlook: "We had our most successful season since I became head coach last year. We graduated a lot of key players but we have some young talent that are ready to step up. We have great leadership in our senior catcher Anthony Severino who is looking to have a big year. We are ready and excited for this season."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Leadership

Top Returning Players:

  • Anthony Severino, C/SS, 5-9, 170, 2026, 4 year starter, West Liberty recruit. .408 AVG, 8 2B, 3 HR, 32 RBI
  • Brady Cole, SS/RHP, 5-7, 155, 2027, 3 year starter, .312 AVG, 12 RBI
  • Chase Newsome, OF/C, 5-10, 165, 2027, .377 AVG
  • Chase Clutter, 1B/LHP, 5-11, 175, 2027
  • Gus Petros, OF/RHP, 5-11, 165, 2028

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Anthony Severino
  • Donald Crawford

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Brady Cole
  • Chase Clutter
  • Chase Newsome
  • Jack Collins (transfer) 

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Gus Petros 

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Carter Beck

2026 Spring Team Preview: St. Mary Central Catholic Panthers (Sandusky)

Team Name: St. Mary Central Catholic Panthers (Sandusky)
Head Coach: Ryan Myers
Division: VII
2025 Record: 16-12
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost District Semifinal to Norwalk St. Paul
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 7/5

Coach Outlook: "Winning has become contagious within this group - they now understand what type of mentality, effort, and sacrifice it takes to succeed. With several key contributors returning and others poised to be the ‘next man up,’ this team has the necessary mindset to achieve goals and surpass expectations."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Team Chemistry
  • Selflessness/Leadership
  • Baseball IQ
  • Defense
  • Base Running

Top Returning Players:

  • Blake Finneran - 2B, 2026, 5-7/135, R/R, 3 year starter, college golf commit. .301 AVG, .425 OBP, 5 2B, 1 HR, 18 RBI, 34 R, 33/33 SB.
  • Cayden Wikel - INF/OF/P, 2027, 5-8/145, R/R, 2 year starter, .319 AVG, .381 OBP, 3 2B, 10 RBI, 19 R, 11 SB.
  • Toby Gibson - 1B/P, 2027, 6-6/225, R/L, 2 year starter, 3-1, 31 IP, 0.45 ERA, 27 K, 8 BB.
  • Cullen Dillard - SS/3B/C/P, 2028, 6-1/170, R/R, 1 year starter, .292 AVG, .453 OBP, 1 2B, 12 RBI, 19 R, 14 SB. 2-1, 17.33 IP, 1.62 ERA, 17 Ks, 7 BB.

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Blake Finneran

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Cayden Wikel
  • Toby Gibson

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Cullen Dillard

2026 Spring Team Preview: Strasburg-Franklin Tigers

Team Name: Strasburg-Franklin Tigers
Head Coach: Mike Becker
Division: VII
2025 Record: 16-15
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in Regional Semifinal to South Webster
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 8/5

Coach Outlook: "We return 8 starters and 12 letterman from last season's team that advanced to the regional tournament for the 1st time in school history. We have a nice mix of accomplished seniors and talented underclassmen. We will need to continue to improve throughout the offseason to be prepared for a challenging schedule both in and out of league as well as a competitive East District."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Experience
  • Starting Pitching
  • Defense
  • Hitting

Top Returning Players:

  • Caden Dugan, 2B, 2026, 5'9" / 185 lbs, R/R. 4-year starter, team captain, Bryant & Stratton recruit. 1st Team All-Ohio. Last Years Stats - .487 AVG, 12 2B, 1 3B, 2 HR, 26 RBI, 33 R, 8 SB
  • Drew Lancaster, SS/RHP, 2026, 5'11" / 165 lbs, R/R. 4-year starter, team captain. Last Years Stats - .347 AVG, 11 2B, 1 3B, 0 HR, 8 RBI, 36 R, 11 SB. 50.1 IP, 3-5, 1.94 ERA, 56 K, 27 BB, 1 SV
  • Brodie Hurst, 3B/RHP, 2027, 6'0" / 195 lbs. R/R. 3-year Starter. .327 AVG, 6 2B, 22 RBI, 18 R. 33.2 IP, 3-2, 2.70 ERA, 28 Ks, 16 BB
  • Brody Baughman, C/SS/RHP, 2028, 5'11" / 180 lbs. R/R. 2-year starter. 2nd Team All-Ohio. .300 AVG, 4 2B, 3 3B, 15 RBI, 33 R, 5 SB. 60.0 IP, 6-4, 1.86 ERA, 76 Ks, 24 BB
  • Tanner Tucker, C/OF, 2027, 6'2" / 160 lbs. R/R. 2-year starter. .267 AVG, 3 2B, 15 RBI, 7 R, 6 SB
  • Avery Keffer, 1B/RHP, 2027, 6'0" / 195 lbs. L/R. 3-year starter. .267 AVG, 1 HR, 18 RBI, 10 R
  • Zayden Barr, OF, 2026, 6'0" / 180 lbs, R/R. 2-year starter. .219 AVG, 2 2B, 9 RBI, 11 R
  • Tressel Miller, 1B/DH, 2026
  • Lucas Gopp, OF/LHP, 2028
  • Brock Johnson, 1B/RHP, 2027
  • Logan Harper, IF/OF, 2028
  • Peyton Herman, OF, 2028

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Caden Dugan
  • Drew Lancaster

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Brodie Hurst
  • Tanner Tucker
  • Avery Keffer

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Brody Baughman

2026 Spring Team Preview: Tri-County North Panthers

Team Name: Tri-County North Panthers
Head Coach: Garrett Gray
Division: VII
2025 Record: 16-10
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost to Russia in District Final
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 5/4

Coach Outlook: "We bring back a strong veteran presence. Players who’ve been in the fire and know what it takes to win. We’ll put in the work to be competitive in a lot of games this season."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Pitching Depth
  • Defense
  • Discipline

Top Returning Players:

  • Ben Knife, SS/RHP, 2028,5-11/170lbs, R/R. Last Year Stats- .392 avg, 29H, 22R,14 RBI, 15 SB. 3-1, 1.853 ERA, 22K, 4 BB
  • Peyton Fannin, CF, 2027, 5-10/180lbs, R/R. 2 yr starter. Last Year Stats- .366 AVG, 9 2B, 4 3B, 49 H, 25 RBIs, 41 R, 25 SB

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Kobe Reynolds, 1B/RHP

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Peyton Fannin, CF/RHP
  • Gabe Heltsley, 3B/RHP
  • Ryan Shively, C/2B
  • Zach Jean, 1B/RHP

Class of 2028 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Ben Knife, SS/RHP
  • Luke Baughman, RF/LHP

2026 Spring Team Preview: Upper Scioto Valley Rams

Team Name: Upper Scioto Valley Rams
Head Coach: Nathan Inniger
Division: VII
2025 Record: 9-9
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Semifinal to Minster
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 7/3

Coach Outlook: "We achieved some new goals a season ago. With the players we have returning, we feel we can push toward even greater goals this season."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Athleticism
  • Experience
  • Defense

Top Returning Players:

  • Andrue Kindle, MI/RHP, 2026, R/R, 3-year letterwinner. .065 Avg., 13 R, 7 RBI, 19 BB, 6 SB
  • Braylon Dunson, OF/1B/LHP, 2026, L/L, 1-year letterwinner. .189 Avg., 5 R, 6 RBI, 10 BB
  • Beau Sanders, C/P/3B, 2027, R/R. 2-year letterwinner. . 320 Avg., 9 R, 16 RBI, 16⅔ IP, 18 K, 16 BB, 6.30 ERA
  • Wyatt Davis, UTIL/RHP, 2027, R/R, 2-year letterwinner. .275 Avg., 16 R, 4 RBI, 13 SB
  • Jesse Prater, RHP, 3B, 1B, 2027, R/R, 2-year letterwinner. .348 Avg., 16 R, 5 RBI, 12 BB, 11 SB, 25⅓ IP, 30 K, 26 BB, 8.01 ERA
  • Caiden Lowery, MI, RHP, 2027, R/R, 2-year letterwinner, .239 Avg., 6 R, 9 RBI, 4 BB, 3 SB, 5⅔ IP, 7 K, 15 BB, 13.59 ERA
  • Macain Underwood, OF/C, 2027, R/R, 2-year letterwinner, .119 Avg., 5 R, 9 RBI, 5 BB, 6 SB. 

Class of 2026 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Andrue Kindle
  • Braylon Dunson
  • Ryan Roberts

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Beau Sanders
  • Wyatt Davis
  • Jesse Prater
  • Caiden Lowery
  • Macain Underwood
  • Kellen Hollon

2026 Spring Team Preview: Waynesfield-Goshen Tigers

Team Name: Waynesfield-Goshen Tigers
Head Coach: Josh Spencer
Division: VII
2025 Record: 6-12
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in sectional final
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 3/1

Coach Outlook: "The WG baseball team will be replacing 7 senior starters this season. We will be young and looking to build for the future."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Athleticism
  • Team Speed

Top Returning Players:

  • Braden Barnes, SS/RHP, 2028, 5-10/150 pounds, R/R, 1 year starter, .282 AVG, 1 2B, 5 RBI, 4 Runs, 2 SB
  • Reed Waitman, CF/RHP, 2026, 5-10/165 pounds, R/R, 2 year starter, .128 AVG, 

2026 Spring Team Preview: Whiteoak Wildcats

Team Name: Whiteoak Wildcats
Head Coach: Chris Veidt
Division: VII
2025 Record: 13-10
2025 Tourney Finish: Lost in District Finals in extra innings to Franklin Furnace Green
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 6/3

Coach Outlook: "We return an excellent Junior class that will combine with a very solid Freshman class.With thta being said we will be right in the thick of our conference and District championship contention."

2026 Team Strengths:

  • Solid group of 3 year starters.
  • Experience, big game experience to boot.

Top Returning Players:

  • Izayah Clift, JR, LHP. 49.2 IP 67 Ks. 2.54 ERA
  • Jonah Michael, JR. P/INF. .284 ave. 19 H. 24 R. 16 RBI. 6 2B. 18 SB. .473 ob%
  • Jacob Kiley, JR INF/P. .316 ave. Lead team in hits (24) 15 RBI. .404 ob%
  • Abraham Flader, JR. INF 20 SB. 15 RBI. 17 R.

Class of 2027 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Izayah Clift
  • Jonah Michael
  • Jacob Kiley
  • Abraham Flader

Class of 2029 Prospects To Keep Eye On:

  • Lucas Pollard
  • Karson Arey
  • Jude Michael
  • Gabe Michael

A Look Back At The 2025 Season:

To view the 2025 Ohio Spring HS Report, click here.

To view the OHSAA Baseball Tournament Roundup, click below.

A Look Back At The 2024 Season:

To view the 2024 Ohio Spring HS Report, click here.

To view the OHSAA Baseball Tournament Roundup, click below.

A Look Back At The 2023 Season:

To view the 2023 Ohio Spring HS Report, click here.

To view the OHSAA Baseball Tournament Roundup, click below.

A Look Back At The 2022 Season:

To view the 2022 Ohio Spring HS Report, click here.

To view the OHSAA Baseball Tournament Roundup, click below.

A Look Back At The 2021 Season:

To view the 2021 Ohio Spring HS Report, click here.

To view the OHSAA Baseball Tournament Roundup, click below.

          A Look Back At What Would've Been The 2020 Season:

          To view each of the parts to the No 'Last Dance' Series, click below:

          To view the 2020 Team Previews, click here.

          To view the 2020 Preseason All-State Teams, click here.

          To view the 2020 Virtual Ohio High School State Tournament/Preseason Team Rankings, click here.

          A Look Back At The Last Decade:

          To view the Ohio High School All-Decade Team 2010-2019, click here.

          A Look Back At The 2019 Season:

          To view the OHSAA Baseball Tournament Roundup, click below.

          To view the 2019 All-State Teams, click below.

          To view the 2019 Preseason All-State Teams, click below.

          A Look Back At The 2018 Season:

          To view the 2018 Team Previews, click here.

          To view the OHSAA Baseball Tournament Roundup, click below.

          To view the 2018 All-State Teams, click below.

          To view the 2018 Preseason All-State Teams, click below.

          A Look Back At The 2017 Season:

          To view the 2017 Team Previews, click here.

          To view the OHSAA Baseball Tournament Roundup, click below.

          To view the 2017 All-State Teams, click below.

          To view the 2017 Preseason All-State Teams, click below.

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