3A Watchlist: Teams to Know
March 17, 2026
With opening week upon us, we wanted to take the time to highlight some of the teams that did not fall in our Preseason Power 25 at the 3A level, but are teams to watch throughout the spring.
Please note: Information and the “teams to watch” are strongly based off of coaches submissions and filling out our preseason questionnaire.
3A Teams to Watch
Champaign Central Maroons
Head Coach: John Staab
Classification: 3A
Conference: Big 12
2025 Record: 26-13-1 Won Champaign Central Regional and Lincoln Sectional. Lost to Triad in Millikin Supersectional
Key Players Lost: Luke McClure (Wright State), Patrick Kennedy (Lakeland), Carter Bleakney (SWIC)
Season Highlights: Regional and Sectional championships
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Pitching
Returning Positional Starters: 9
Returning Starting Pitchers: 4
Returning Relief Pitchers: 3
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Talin Baker | IL | 2027 | OF | - |
| Nic Bralts | IL | 2028 | SS/2B | - |
| Tre Cole | IL | 2026 | RHP | - |
| Ben McDaniel | IL | 2027 | INF | - |
| Wilson McDaniel | IL | 2026 | LHP | - |
| Ryan Pipkins | IL | 2028 | OF/RHP | - |
| Drew Steffen | IL | 2027 | LHP | - |
| John Timmons | IL | 2027 | C/2B | - |
| Ian Weber | IL | 2026 | - |
DATA CENTER
TEAM RANKS:
This data is sourced from the 2026 Illinois winter showcase circuit and some select 2025 events, compiled by Prep Baseball. We took the top-three metrics recorded by players from each high school in the following categories. Here is how Champaign Central's top-three performers averaged across each category:
- Avg. Exit Velocity: 89.37 mph (No. 12 in 3A)
- Max Exit Velocity: 96.33 mph (T-No. 13 in 3A)
- Max FB Velocity: 89.33 mph (No. 2 in 3A, T-No. 15 in the state)
- Top 60-Yard: 6.86s (No. 4 in 3A, No. 24 in the state)
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Isaiah Roundtree (2029) - C/SS - 5-7 , 151 lbs
- bat speed: 74.2 mph (T-No. 12 in 3A, 90th pctile. in IL, No. 4 in 2029 class)
- rot. accel.: 17.0g (T-No. 22 in 3A, 81st pctile. in IL, T-No. 9 in 2029 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.71s (T-No. 21 in 2029 class)
- vert. jump: 22.8 in (No. 23 in 2029 class)
- John Timmons (2027) - C/2B - 5-11.7 , 178 lbs
- max EV: 99.0 mph (T-No. 20 in 3A, 82nd pctile. in IL)
- avg EV: 95.1 mph (No. 7 in 3A, 95th pctile. in IL, 92nd pctile. in 2027 class)
- rot. accel.: 18.0g (T-No. 18 in 3A, 85th pctile. in IL, 84th pctile. in 2027 class)
- C arm: 79.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, T-No. 25 in IL, T-No. 11 in 2027 class)
- Nic Bralts (2028) - SS/2B - 6-0.7 , 180 lbs
- max fastball: 86.0 mph (T-No. 22 in 2028 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.67s (No. 6 in 3A, 97th pctile. in IL, T-No. 5 in 2028 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.61s (T-No. 6 in 3A, 93rd pctile. in IL, T-No. 3 in 2028 class)
- FB spin: 2184 rpm (No. 19 in 3A, 81st pctile. in IL, 85th pctile. in 2028 class)
- CB spin: 2210 rpm (No. 17 in 3A, 80th pctile. in 2028 class)
- SL spin: 2409 rpm (No. 7 in 3A, 88th pctile. in IL, No. 5 in 2028 class)
- IVB (rise): 16.8 in (No. 12 in 3A, 85th pctile. in IL, 85th pctile. in 2028 class)
- Ryan Pipkins (2028) - OF/RHP - 6-1.4 , 180 lbs
- avg EV: 90.8 mph (81st pctile. in 3A, 81st pctile. in IL, 86th pctile. in 2028 class)
- rot. accel.: 17.0g (T-No. 22 in 3A, 81st pctile. in IL, 84th pctile. in 2028 class)
- max fastball: 89.0 mph (T-No. 10 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL, T-No. 6 in 2028 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.84s (No. 19 in 3A, 87th pctile. in IL, No. 21 in 2028 class)
- vert. jump: 27.0 in (No. 11 in 3A, 90th pctile. in IL, T-No. 16 in 2028 class)
- OF arm: 87.0 mph (T-No. 11 in 3A, T-No. 11 in 2028 class)
- Tre Cole (2026) - RHP - 6-2.3 , 190 lbs
- max fastball: 93.0 mph (T-No. 1 in 3A, T-No. 8 in IL, T-No. 2 in 2026 class)
- IVB (rise): 15.5 in (No. 22 in 3A)
Crystal Lake South Gators
Head Coach: Brian Bogda
Classification: 3A
Conference: Fox Valley
2025 Record: 25-13 Lost to Cary-Grove in Sectional Final
Key Players Lost: Liam Sullivan (Loras), Mark Pachla (McHenry County College), Christian Alther (Arizona Christian University), Xander Shevchenko (Elmhurst), Yandel Ramirez (McHenry County College)
Season Highlights: Sweet 16, won 4th regional in a row. 3 of the last 6 seasons, not including 2020 CLS has been in the Sweet 16, playing in the Sectional Final.
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Positional depth, pitching, defense.
Returning Positional Starters: 1B, SS, 3B, C, CF, DH- 6
Returning Starting Pitchers: 3
Returning Relief Pitchers: 4
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Nolan Dabrowski | IL | 2026 | UTIL | - |
| Vince Pesce | IL | 2026 | RHP | - |
| Julian Redmond | IL | 2026 | RHP | - |
| Dane Chock | IL | 2026 | 1B/LHP | - |
| Michael Rathjen | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Carson Trivellini | IL | 2027 | MIF | Illinois |
| Gio Evers | IL | 2026 | INF | - |
| Ryan Morgan | IL | 2028 | INF/RHP | - |
| Yeidan Ramierz | IL | 2028 | C/INF | - |
| John Morgan | IL | 2028 | 1B | - |
| Wesley Bogda | IL | 2028 | OF/RHP | - |
| Nick Stowasser | IL | 2027 | OF/RHP | - |
| Jackson Lee | IL | 2027 | C | - |
| Coleton Bondi | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Matt Bychowsky | IL | 2026 | 3B/RHP | - |
| Ian Christopher | IL | 2028 | OF/RHP | - |
| Devin De Loach | IL | 2026 | LHP | Northern Illinois |
| Tanner Maurer | IL | 2027 | OF/RHP | - |
| Michael Silvius | IL | 2027 | RHP/3B | - |
| Trevor Walker | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
DATA CENTER
TEAM RANKS:
This data is sourced from the 2026 Illinois winter showcase circuit and some select 2025 events, compiled by Prep Baseball. We took the top-three metrics recorded by players from each high school in the following categories. Here is how Crystal Lake South's top-three performers averaged across each category:
- Avg. Exit Velocity: 86.97 mph (No. 17 in 3A)
- Max Exit Velocity: 94.67 mph (No. 20 in 3A)
- Max FB Velocity: 84.33 mph (T-No. 11 in 3A)
- Top 60-Yard: 7.52s (No. 20 in 3A)
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Devin De Loach (2026) - LHP/1B - 6-2.4 , 252 lbs
- max fastball: 88.0 mph (T-No. 19 in 3A)
- IVB (rise): 18.5 in (No. 3 in 3A, 95th pctile. in IL, No. 8 in 2026 class)
- Ian Christopher (2028) - OF/RHP - 6-1 , 160 lbs
- CB spin: 2340 rpm (No. 13 in 3A, 85th pctile. in IL, No. 16 in 2028 class)
- Michael Silvius (2027) - RHP/3B - 5-11 , 200 lbs
- IVB (rise): 17.4 in (T-No. 8 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL, No. 23 in 2027 class)
- Tanner Maurer (2027) - OF/RHP - 5-8.5 , 214 lbs
- bat speed: 72.7 mph (No. 23 in 3A, 83rd pctile. in IL, 81st pctile. in 2027 class)
- rot. accel.: 30.0g (No. 1 in 3A, No. 3 in IL, No. 1 in 2027 class)
- Wesley Bogda (2028) - OF/RHP - 6-4 , 180 lbs
- avg EV: 91.2 mph (T-No. 23 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL, 87th pctile. in 2028 class)
East Peoria Community Raiders
Head Coach: Matt Plummer
Classification: 3A
Conference: Mid-Illini
2025 Record: 27-9
Key Players Lost: Zach Haahn (Highland CC), Owen Hidden (llinois Central College), Joe Clark (Eureka College), Korbin Parker (Highland Community College), Connor Watson (Illinois Central College)
Season Highlights: Great spring break trip to Lakepoint going 3-1 vs. great out of state competition. We earned a big early win vs. Chatham Glenwood on the road thanks to a great pitching performance from Jordan Marsh and 2 home runs from RJ Duncheon. We split vs. a very good Dunlap team with a walk off HR by Auggie Lohnes. RJ Duncheon had 16 strikeouts to beat Ryan Schaffnit from Morton 1-0. We beat a very good U-High team 7-2. We had a tough loss 1-0 in 10 innings vs. one of the best 4-A teams in the state, Normal Community. RJ Duncheon threw 9 1/3 IP giving up zero runs. We won the Charlie Due wood bat tournament hosted by Champaign Centennial.
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Top lineup speed with middle power. One of the best pitchers in the state.
Returning Positional Starters: 5
Returning Starting Pitchers: 2
Returning Relief Pitchers: 2
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| RJ Duncheon | IL | 2026 | RHP/C | Illinois State |
| Auggie Lohnes | IL | 2026 | RHP/3B | - |
| Jackson Ahrens | IL | 2026 | SS/RHP | - |
| Roman Moody | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Jordan Marsh | IL | 2026 | INF | - |
| Mason Watson | IL | 2026 | C | - |
| Keegan Barnes | IL | 2027 | 1B | - |
| Colton Catton | IL | 2027 | RHP/INF | - |
| Jacob Bond | IL | 2027 | OF | - |
| Eli Martin | IL | 2029 | UTIL | - |
Fenwick Friars
Head Coach: Kyle Kmiecik
Classification: 3A
Conference: Chicago Catholic League - Blue Division
2025 Record: 19-16-1 / Class 4A Regional Championship Loss
Key Players Lost: Ryan Lazewski, Matthew Purta, Bryan Tunison
Season Highlights: Ryan Lazewski '25 with 100 career hits
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Defense, Batting Order.
Returning Positional Starters: 5
Returning Starting Pitchers: 2
Returning Relief Pitchers: 3
| JJ Obaldo | IL | 2027 | MIF | - |
| Caleb Flanagan | IL | 2027 | MIF/3B | - |
| Luca Ponzio | IL | 2026 | C/3B | - |
| AJ McConnell | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Sean Bell | IL | 2026 | P | - |
| Bobby Milder | IL | 2026 | P | - |
| Zack Morgan | IL | 2027 | C/OF | - |
| Charlie Sutton | IL | 2027 | P | - |
| Johnny Buchman | IL | 2026 | INF | - |
| Harrison Dragus | IL | 2026 | P | - |
| Colin Dragus | IL | 2026 | P | - |
| Beckett Javell | IL | 2027 | OF | - |
| Timmy Gall | IL | 2027 | MIF/RHP | - |
| Anthony Bucolo | IL | 2026 | INF/RHP | - |
| Jeremy Munoz | IL | 2027 | 1B | - |
| Rocco Nero | IL | 2027 | OF | - |
| Ethan Gonzalez | IL | 2027 | C/INF | - |
| Jimmy Bonakdar | IL | 2027 | 3B | - |
| Gio Rangel | IL | 2027 | INF | - |
| Josh Morgan | IL | 2027 | OF | Cincinnati |
| Elliot Bastedo | IL | 2027 | 1B | - |
| Jack Fagan | IL | 2027 | P | - |
| Finn Milder | IL | 2026 | P | |
| Liam Cahill | IL | 2026 | P | |
| Michael Kotynek | IL | 2027 | OF | |
| Michael McMahon | IL | 2027 | 1B | |
| Fran Madden | IL | 2028 | OF/P | |
| Julian Torres | IL | 2029 | UTIL |
DATA CENTER
TEAM RANKS:
This data is sourced from the 2026 Illinois winter showcase circuit and some select 2025 events, compiled by Prep Baseball. We took the top-three metrics recorded by players from each high school in the following categories. Here is how Fenwick's top-three performers averaged across each category:
- Avg. Exit Velocity: 91.43 mph (No. 4 in 3A)
- Max Exit Velocity: 98.00 mph (T-No. 7 in 3A)
- Top 60-Yard: 6.97s (No. 8 in 3A)
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Caleb Flanagan (2027) - 2B/SS - 5-8 , 122 lbs
- rot. accel.: 17.0g (T-No. 22 in 3A, 81st pctile. in IL, 80th pctile. in 2027 class)
- Ethan Gonzalez (2027) - C/3B - 5-8.8 , 175 lbs
- INF arm: 85.0 mph (T-No. 17 in 3A, 82nd pctile. in IL)
- C arm: 78.0 mph (T-No. 9 in 3A, T-No. 19 in 2027 class)
- James Obaldo (2027) - 2B/SS - 5-8.9 , 172 lbs
- max EV: 98.0 mph (T-No. 25 in 3A)
- vert. jump: 25.9 in (T-No. 20 in 3A, 85th pctile. in IL)
- INF arm: 87.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL, T-No. 17 in 2027 class)
- Josh Morgan (2027) - OF - 6-1.3 , 196 lbs
- max EV: 100.0 mph (T-No. 13 in 3A, 86th pctile. in IL)
- avg EV: 94.8 mph (No. 8 in 3A, 94th pctile. in IL, 90th pctile. in 2027 class)
- bat speed: 73.0 mph (T-No. 19 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL, 83rd pctile. in 2027 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.54s (T-No. 1 in 3A, T-No. 8 in IL, T-No. 4 in 2027 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.63s (T-No. 17 in 3A, 90th pctile. in IL, 86th pctile. in 2027 class)
- vert. jump: 26.5 in (No. 16 in 3A, 88th pctile. in IL, 85th pctile. in 2027 class)
- OF arm: 90.0 mph (T-No. 3 in 3A, T-No. 25 in IL, T-No. 9 in 2027 class)
Geneva Vikings
Head Coach: Brad Wendell
Classification: 3A
Conference: DuKane
2025 Record: 23-12, lost to GBW in regional semi.
Key Players Lost: Caden Sorensen, Miles Dibble, Nick Price, Michael Toole, Ethan Gronberg
Season Highlights: Top 5 in winning percentage and Wins in Geneva history (at least since 1970).
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Varsity experience returning.
Returning Positional Starters: 6
Returning Starting Pitchers: 2-3
Returning Relief Pitchers: 2
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Tate Beran | IL | 2027 | 3B/2B | |
| Mason Bruesch | IL | 2027 | OF/RHP | Michigan State |
| Gavin Dworak | IL | 2028 | C/OF | - |
| Carter Fuhrmann | IL | 2028 | C | - |
| Noah Hallahan | IL | 2027 | RHP/OF | - |
| Luke Ignoffo | IL | 2028 | - | |
| Nick Lozano | IL | 2028 | SS/RHP | - |
| Tyler Manning | IL | 2028 | OF/RHP | - |
| AJ Minderman | IL | 2028 | LHP/OF | - |
| Nelson Wendell | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Blake Kopec | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Aidan Hall | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Josh Frieders | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Ryan Kastor | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Alex Abraham | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Matthew Martija | IL | 2027 | - |
DATA CENTER
TEAM RANKS:
This data is sourced from the 2026 Illinois winter showcase circuit and some select 2025 events, compiled by Prep Baseball. We took the top-three metrics recorded by players from each high school in the following categories. Here is how Geneva's top-three performers averaged across each category:
- Avg. Exit Velocity: 90.93 mph (No. 5 in 3A)
- Max Exit Velocity: 97.33 mph (T-No. 10 in 3A)
- Max FB Velocity: 88.33 mph (T-No. 5 in 3A, T-No. 28 in the state)
- Top 60-Yard: 6.89s (No. 7 in 3A)
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Carter Fuhrmann (2028) - C - 5-9.7 , 162 lbs
- C arm: 73.0 mph (T-No. 19 in 3A)
- Gavin Dworak (2028) - C/OF - 5-11 , 173 lbs
- rot. accel.: 21.0g (T-No. 12 in 3A, 94th pctile. in IL, T-No. 9 in 2028 class)
- C arm: 72.0 mph (T-No. 22 in 3A)
- Maddux Carson (2029) - C/2B - 5-8.9 , 138 lbs
- avg EV: 88.9 mph (No. 19 in 2029 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 7.28s (T-No. 21 in 2029 class)
- vert. jump: 24.7 in (T-No. 6 in 2029 class)
- C arm: 75.0 mph (T-No. 15 in 3A, T-No. 3 in 2029 class)
- Mason Bruesch (2027) - OF/RHP - 6-07 , 170 lbs
- max EV: 100.0 mph (T-No. 13 in 3A, 86th pctile. in IL)
- avg EV: 91.8 mph (No. 21 in 3A, 86th pctile. in IL, 83rd pctile. in 2027 class)
- bat speed: 79.2 mph (No. 3 in 3A, No. 8 in IL, No. 2 in 2027 class)
- max fastball: 90.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL, T-No. 21 in 2027 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.63s (No. 4 in 3A, T-No. 23 in IL, No. 12 in 2027 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.58s (No. 2 in 3A, T-No. 10 in IL, T-No. 7 in 2027 class)
- OF arm: 89.0 mph (No. 7 in 3A, 88th pctile. in IL, T-No. 17 in 2027 class)
- FB spin: 2319 rpm (No. 6 in 3A, 94th pctile. in IL, T-No. 14 in 2027 class)
- CB spin: 2518 rpm (No. 2 in 3A, No. 21 in IL, No. 8 in 2027 class)
- SL spin: 2255 rpm (No. 16 in 3A)
- Noah Hallahan (2027) - RHP/OF - 6-09 , 201 lbs
- max EV: 99.0 mph (T-No. 20 in 3A, 82nd pctile. in IL)
- avg EV: 92.1 mph (No. 19 in 3A, 87th pctile. in IL, 84th pctile. in 2027 class)
- bat speed: 75.8 mph (No. 5 in 3A, 96th pctile. in IL, No. 11 in 2027 class)
- max fastball: 92.0 mph (T-No. 3 in 3A, T-No. 17 in IL, T-No. 11 in 2027 class)
- vert. jump: 26.9 in (T-No. 12 in 3A, 90th pctile. in IL, 87th pctile. in 2027 class)
- OF arm: 90.0 mph (T-No. 3 in 3A, T-No. 25 in IL, T-No. 9 in 2027 class)
- Tate Beran (2027) - 3B/2B - 5-9.6 , 169 lbs
- vert. jump: 25.7 in (T-No. 23 in 3A, 83rd pctile. in IL)
- Tyler Manning (2028) - OF/RHP - 6-3.2 , 180 lbs
- 60-yd. dash: 6.95s (81st pctile. in 3A, 81st pctile. in IL, 87th pctile. in 2028 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.61s (T-No. 6 in 3A, 93rd pctile. in IL, T-No. 3 in 2028 class)
- vert. jump: 26.0 in (No. 19 in 3A, 86th pctile. in IL, 90th pctile. in 2028 class)
- OF arm: 84.0 mph (T-No. 24 in 3A)
Grayslake Central Rams
Head Coach: Troy Whalen
Classification: 3A
Conference: NLCC
2025 Record: 26-10. Lost in Regional Finals to St. Viator
Key Players Lost: Cal Hanson (Parkland CC), Ian McGowan (College of Lake County), Colton Ohm (College of Lake County) Trevor Meathe (College of Lake County)
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Defense up the middle
Returning Positional Starters: 5
Returning Starting Pitchers: 1
Returning Relief Pitchers: 3
| Charlie Surowiec | IL | 2027 | SS/2B | - |
| Carson Woods | IL | 2026 | 2B | - |
| Beckham Stone | IL | 2026 | - | |
| TJ Rodriguez | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Luke Eckenstahler | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Daniel Cope | IL | 2028 | - | |
| Beau Barrows | IL | 2028 | - | |
| Jayson Domerchie | IL | 2027 | - |
DATA CENTER
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Charlie Surowiec (2027) - SS/2B - 5-11.8 , 170 lbs
- max EV: 98.0 mph (T-No. 25 in 3A)
- vert. jump: 25.3 in (80th pctile. in IL)
Highland Bulldogs
Head Coach: Kegan Robbins
Classification: 3A
Conference: Mississippi Valley
2025 Record: 22-14 (Lost in Regional Championship to Triad)
Key Players Lost: Braxdon Decker (Eastern Illinois), Garrin Stone (Quincy), Chase Knebel (SWIC)
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Overall pitching depth, athletic on defense.
Returning Positional Starters: 3
Returning Starting Pitchers: 3
Returning Relief Pitchers: 6
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Nolan Houcins | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Tyler Mehrtens | IL | 2028 | - | |
| Ben Kunz | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Carter Powell | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Tyler Rottmann | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Trent Henrichs | IL | 2026 | INF | - |
| Kaden Leckrone | IL | 2026 | C | McKendree |
| Blake Gelly | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Luke Schaible | IL | 2027 | INF |
DATA CENTER
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Gustav Crane (2027) - C/3B - 5-11.6 , 197 lbs
- avg EV: 91.2 mph (T-No. 23 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL, 80th pctile. in 2027 class)
- rot. accel.: 23.0g (T-No. 5 in 3A, T-No. 25 in IL, T-No. 11 in 2027 class)
- C arm: 79.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, T-No. 25 in IL, T-No. 11 in 2027 class)
- Luke Giese (2026) - SS/2B - 5-11.2 , 175 lbs
- CB spin: 2236 rpm (No. 15 in 3A)
- IVB (rise): 15.9 in (No. 19 in 3A)
- Simon Rose (2027) - SS/RHP - 5-11.2 , 168 lbs
- max EV: 102.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, 93rd pctile. in IL, 90th pctile. in 2027 class)
- avg EV: 95.6 mph (No. 6 in 3A, 96th pctile. in IL, No. 24 in 2027 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.65s (T-No. 24 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL)
- vert. jump: 25.3 in (80th pctile. in IL)
- INF arm: 86.0 mph (T-No. 12 in 3A, 85th pctile. in IL, 83rd pctile. in 2027 class)
- Tyler Mehrtens (2028) - LHP/OF - 5-9.6 , 162 lbs
- max fastball: 86.0 mph (T-No. 22 in 2028 class)
Joliet Catholic Hilltoppers
Head Coach: Jared Voss
Classification: 3A
Conference: East Suburban Catholic
2025 Record: 23-15 Lost game 1 Sectional
Key Players Lost: Zach Pomatto (Northern Kentucky), Lucas Grant (Purdue)
Season Highlights: Regional Champions
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Pitching depth
Returning Positional Starters: 4
Returning Starting Pitchers: 3
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Cody Busch | IL | 2029 | SS | - |
| Loy Ballerini | IL | 2028 | C/3B | - |
| Ian Campbell | IL | 2026 | RHP | Navy |
| Kyle Christensen | IL | 2026 | RHP | - |
| Brady Tunkel | IL | 2026 | LHP | UW-Platteville |
| Kyle Christensen | IL | 2026 | RHP | Illinois Wesleyan |
| John Curbis | IL | 2027 | 2B/SS | - |
| Tyler Dagenais | IL | 2027 | RHP | - |
| Barrett Diaz | IL | 2026 | RHP | - |
| AJ Perez | IL | 2026 | C | - |
| Anthony Kilimnik | IL | 2027 | LHP/OF | - |
| Nikki Koontz | IL | 2027 | OF | - |
| Koen Lynes | IL | 2027 | SS/RHP | - |
| Joshua Perez | IL | 2027 | OF/OF | - |
| Derek Pomatto | IL | 2027 | C | - |
| Max Rathbun | IL | 2027 | RHP | - |
| Steve Martin | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Lucas Simulick | IL | 2026 | SS/RHP | Eastern Illinois |
| Colin Stuckwisch | IL | 2028 | 2B/OF | - |
| Rocco Szambelan | IL | 2026 | LHP/OF | Butler |
| Evan Wills | IL | 2027 | LHP | - |
| Jacob Wojciechowski | IL | 2026 | RHP/3B | - |
DATA CENTER
TEAM RANKS:
This data is sourced from the 2026 Illinois winter showcase circuit and some select 2025 events, compiled by Prep Baseball. We took the top-three metrics recorded by players from each high school in the following categories. Here is how Joliet Catholic's top-three performers averaged across each category:
- Avg. Exit Velocity: 86.57 mph (No. 18 in 3A)
- Max Exit Velocity: 96.67 mph (No. 11 in 3A)
- Max FB Velocity: 89.67 mph (No. 1 in 3A, T-No. 8 in the state)
- Top 60-Yard: 6.77s (No. 1 in 3A, No. 15 in the state)
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Anthony Kilimnik (2027) - LHP/OF - 5-9.8 , 161 lbs
- OF arm: 90.0 mph (T-No. 3 in 3A, T-No. 25 in IL, T-No. 9 in 2027 class)
- FB spin: 2185 rpm (No. 18 in 3A, 81st pctile. in IL)
- CB spin: 2343 rpm (No. 12 in 3A, 85th pctile. in IL, 83rd pctile. in 2027 class)
- SL spin: 2478 rpm (No. 5 in 3A, 91st pctile. in IL, No. 9 in 2027 class)
- IVB (rise): 16.8 in (No. 13 in 3A, 85th pctile. in IL, 84th pctile. in 2027 class)
- Cody Busch (2029) - SS/RHP - 5-9.3 , 148 lbs
- max fastball: 82.0 mph (T-No. 18 in 2029 class)
- INF arm: 80.0 mph (T-No. 18 in 2029 class)
- FB spin: 2089 rpm (No. 10 in 2029 class)
- SL spin: 2020 rpm (No. 13 in 2029 class)
- Ian Campbell (2026) - RHP
- max fastball: 92.0 mph (T-No. 3 in 3A, T-No. 17 in IL, T-No. 6 in 2026 class)
- Jacob Wojciechowski (2026) - RHP/3B - 6-6 , 205 lbs
- IVB (rise): 16.6 in (No. 14 in 3A, 83rd pctile. in IL, T-No. 23 in 2026 class)
- Joshua Perez (2027) - OF/OF - 5-11.9 , 195 lbs
- max EV: 98.0 mph (T-No. 25 in 3A)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.91s (T-No. 23 in 3A, 83rd pctile. in IL, 80th pctile. in 2027 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.60s (T-No. 3 in 3A, 95th pctile. in IL, T-No. 17 in 2027 class)
- vert. jump: 25.9 in (T-No. 20 in 3A, 85th pctile. in IL)
- OF arm: 86.0 mph (T-No. 13 in 3A)
- Koen Lynes (2027) - SS/RHP - 6-0.3 , 169 lbs
- vert. jump: 25.5 in (82nd pctile. in IL)
- INF arm: 87.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL, T-No. 17 in 2027 class)
- CB spin: 2106 rpm (No. 25 in 3A)
- SL spin: 2097 rpm (No. 25 in 3A)
- IVB (rise): 20.6 in (No. 1 in 3A, T-No. 5 in IL, No. 3 in 2027 class)
- Kyle Christensen (2026) - RHP - 6-0.5 , 189 lbs
- FB spin: 2215 rpm (No. 14 in 3A, 85th pctile. in IL)
- SL spin: 2115 rpm (No. 22 in 3A)
- Lucas Simulick (2026) - SS/RHP - 5-10 , 168 lbs
- 60-yd. dash: 6.71s (No. 9 in 3A, 95th pctile. in IL, T-No. 15 in 2026 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.62s (T-No. 12 in 3A, 92nd pctile. in IL, T-No. 22 in 2026 class)
- vert. jump: 26.7 in (No. 15 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL)
- INF arm: 87.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL, T-No. 18 in 2026 class)
- Rocco Szambelan (2026) - LHP/OF - 6-1 , 186 lbs
- max fastball: 90.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL, T-No. 21 in 2026 class)
- Tyler Dagenais (2027) - RHP - 5-10 , 179 lbs
- FB spin: 2180 rpm (No. 20 in 3A, 81st pctile. in IL)
Limestone Rockets
Head Coach: Tyler Christiansen
Classification: 3A
Conference: Mid-Illini
2025 Record: 23-14 (regional runner-up)
Key Players Lost: Bryce Chapman, Alec Williams, Gavin Kleist
Season Highlights: First 20 game winner since 2018. Bryce Chapman set the school record for stolen bases in a season (30).
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Pitching
Returning Positional Starters: 4
Returning Starting Pitchers: 4
Returning Relief Pitchers: 2
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Cooper Clark | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Evan Daxenbichler | IL | 2027 | SS/RHP | - |
| Gavin Klecker | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Hunter Long | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Nolan Ryan | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Ben Subbert | IL | 2026 | - |
DATA CENTER
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Evan Daxenbichler (2027) - SS/RHP - 6-08 , 208 lbs
- INF arm: 85.0 mph (T-No. 17 in 3A, 82nd pctile. in IL)
- FB spin: 2241 rpm (No. 11 in 3A, 88th pctile. in IL, 85th pctile. in 2027 class)
- CB spin: 2234 rpm (No. 16 in 3A)
Mahomet-Seymour Bulldogs
Head Coach: Nic DiFilippo
Classification: 3A
Conference: Apollo
2025 Record: 23-12 Beat in Sectional Championship
Key Players Lost: Gavin Bailey, Cam Heinhold, Mason Orton, Nolan Johnson, Ray Long
Season Highlights: 5 straight regional titles 4th straight confernce championship.
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Pitching Lead by Max Young
Returning Positional Starters: 4
Returning Starting Pitchers: 3
Returning Relief Pitchers: 5
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Cade Ashby | IL | 2026 | C | Spoon River |
| Camden Beedy | IL | 2028 | INF | - |
| Nick Brauer | IL | 2027 | P | - |
| Kyle Popovich | IL | 2026 | LHP | Morton |
| Cole Henderson | IL | 2026 | INF | - |
| Bradley Jones | IL | 2028 | 3B/RHP | - |
| Mathew Kirby | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Paxson Omalley | IL | 2027 | C | - |
| Jacob Sampson | IL | - | ||
| Nolan Sanderson | IL | 2026 | P/1B | - |
| Logan Wade | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Marco Casillias | IL | 2028 | - | |
| Colin Wholey | IL | |||
| Austin Wike | IL | 2026 | RHP/1B | - |
| Max Young | IL | 2026 | RHP/3B | - |
DATA CENTER
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Austin Wike (2026) - RHP/1B - 6-1 , 170 lbs
- FB spin: 2211 rpm (No. 15 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL)
- CB spin: 2146 rpm (No. 22 in 3A)
- Bradley Jones (2028) - 3B/RHP - 5-10 , 184 lbs
- max EV: 99.0 mph (T-No. 20 in 3A, 82nd pctile. in IL, 89th pctile. in 2028 class)
- avg EV: 92.0 mph (No. 20 in 3A, 87th pctile. in IL, 90th pctile. in 2028 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.90s (No. 22 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL, T-No. 25 in 2028 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.64s (T-No. 20 in 3A, 87th pctile. in IL, T-No. 18 in 2028 class)
- Max Young (2026) - RHP/3B - 6-1 , 173 lbs
- FB spin: 2335 rpm (No. 5 in 3A, 95th pctile. in IL, No. 11 in 2026 class)
- SL spin: 2264 rpm (No. 15 in 3A)
Marion Wildcats
Head Coach: Kyle Geiger
Classification: 3A
Conference: South 7
2025 Record: 23-10 overall; Regional Champs; beat in sectionals by Triad.
Key Players Lost: Chase Niemeyer, Drew Vaughn, Reece Anthony, Carter Lang
Season Highlights: 9 all conference players; 4 All-South players; 1 All-State player
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Returning varsity experience and versatility.
Returning Positional Starters: 6
Returning Starting Pitchers: 2
Returning Relief Pitchers: 2
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Will True | IL | 2026 | INF | Wabash Valley |
| Aiden Pickles | IL | 2026 | INF/RHP | Rend Lake |
| Braden Walsh | IL | 2026 | 1B/P | Rend Lake |
| Alex Henry | IL | 2026 | P | Rend Lake |
| Gabe Hart | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Callahan Roper | IL | 2026 | UTIL | - |
| Hayden Harriss | IL | 2027 | INF | - |
| Carsen Penn | IL | 2027 | C | |
| Brayden Bethel | IL | 2028 | OF/RHP | |
| Abram Tarlton | IL | 2028 | INF/RHP |
DATA CENTER
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Alex Henry (2026) - RHP/3B - 6-2 , 239 lbs
- IVB (rise): 16.3 in (No. 15 in 3A, 80th pctile. in IL, 81st pctile. in 2026 class)
Montini Catholic Broncos
Head Coach: Eric Scott
Classification: 3A
Conference: Chicago Catholic League (White)
2025 Record: 21-6 Lost in Regional Final to St. Francis
Key Players Lost: Drew Church, Max Bell, Nick Sheeran, Jackson Simek
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Pitching (Starting and Relief) Catching & Infield Defense will be very strong.
Returning Positional Starters: 5
Returning Starting Pitchers: 3
Returning Relief Pitchers: 2
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Julio Ayala | IL | 2027 | 3B/SS | - |
| Kameron Cox | IL | 2028 | SS/2B | - |
| Ryszard Gewont | IL | 2026 | C | Webster |
| Blake Heyer | IL | 2026 | RHP | Holy Cross |
| Quinn Paprockas | IL | 2026 | C | Joliet JC |
| Nick Kois | IL | 2026 | RHP | Lewis |
| Johnny Louise | IL | 2027 | 3B/1B | - |
| Drake Palmer | IL | 2026 | INF | - |
| Robert Sansone | IL | 2026 | INF | - |
| Nate Ramirez | IL | 2026 | OF | McKendree |
DATA CENTER
TEAM RANKS:
This data is sourced from the 2026 Illinois winter showcase circuit and some select 2025 events, compiled by Prep Baseball. We took the top-three metrics recorded by players from each high school in the following categories. Here is how Montini Catholic's top-three performers averaged across each category:
- Avg. Exit Velocity: 96.37 mph (No. 1 in 3A, No. 6 in the state)
- Max Exit Velocity: 101.33 mph (No. 1 in 3A, T-No. 22 in the state)
- Max FB Velocity: 88.33 mph (T-No. 5 in 3A, T-No. 28 in the state)
- Top 60-Yard: 6.85s (No. 3 in 3A, No. 23 in the state)
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Blake Heyer (2026) - RHP - 6-0.7 , 206 lbs
- max fastball: 89.0 mph (T-No. 10 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL)
- FB spin: 2199 rpm (No. 17 in 3A, 83rd pctile. in IL)
- CB spin: 2402 rpm (No. 8 in 3A, 91st pctile. in IL, No. 17 in 2026 class)
- SL spin: 2271 rpm (No. 14 in 3A)
- IVB (rise): 16.2 in (No. 16 in 3A)
- Johnny Louise (2027) - 3B/1B - 6-0.9 , 234 lbs
- max EV: 104.0 mph (T-No. 2 in 3A, T-No. 23 in IL, T-No. 13 in 2027 class)
- avg EV: 98.1 mph (No. 2 in 3A, T-No. 15 in IL, No. 8 in 2027 class)
- bat speed: 75.0 mph (No. 7 in 3A, 94th pctile. in IL, No. 18 in 2027 class)
- max fastball: 90.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL, T-No. 21 in 2027 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.64s (T-No. 20 in 3A, 87th pctile. in IL, 83rd pctile. in 2027 class)
- vert. jump: 26.2 in (No. 18 in 3A, 87th pctile. in IL, 82nd pctile. in 2027 class)
- INF arm: 87.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL, T-No. 17 in 2027 class)
- FB spin: 2208 rpm (No. 16 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL, 81st pctile. in 2027 class)
- Julio Ayala (2027) - 3B/SS - 5-11.7 , 191 lbs
- avg EV: 94.0 mph (No. 10 in 3A, 92nd pctile. in IL, 88th pctile. in 2027 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.65s (T-No. 24 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL)
- INF arm: 88.0 mph (T-No. 3 in 3A, 92nd pctile. in IL, T-No. 10 in 2027 class)
- Kameron Cox (2028) - SS/2B - 5-9.8 , 181 lbs
- avg EV: 91.2 mph (T-No. 23 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL, 87th pctile. in 2028 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.65s (No. 5 in 3A, 97th pctile. in IL, No. 4 in 2028 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.60s (T-No. 3 in 3A, 95th pctile. in IL, No. 2 in 2028 class)
- vert. jump: 26.9 in (T-No. 12 in 3A, 90th pctile. in IL, No. 18 in 2028 class)
- INF arm: 89.0 mph (T-No. 1 in 3A, T-No. 22 in IL, T-No. 5 in 2028 class)
- FB spin: 2174 rpm (No. 21 in 3A, 80th pctile. in IL, 84th pctile. in 2028 class)
- Ryszard Gewont (2026) - C - 6-2.5 , 191 lbs
- max EV: 103.0 mph (T-No. 4 in 3A, 95th pctile. in IL, T-No. 15 in 2026 class)
- avg EV: 97.0 mph (No. 4 in 3A, No. 22 in IL, No. 11 in 2026 class)
- bat speed: 73.8 mph (T-No. 14 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL)
- rot. accel.: 21.0g (T-No. 12 in 3A, 94th pctile. in IL, T-No. 15 in 2026 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.78s (No. 14 in 3A, 91st pctile. in IL, 85th pctile. in 2026 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.62s (T-No. 12 in 3A, 92nd pctile. in IL, T-No. 22 in 2026 class)
- vert. jump: 28.8 in (No. 3 in 3A, 96th pctile. in IL, No. 13 in 2026 class)
- C arm: 75.0 mph (T-No. 15 in 3A)
- Sonny Mateja (2028) - 2B/RHP - 6-1 , 153 lbs
- max fastball: 86.0 mph (T-No. 22 in 2028 class)
- INF arm: 87.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL, T-No. 11 in 2028 class)
- FB spin: 2355 rpm (No. 2 in 3A, No. 24 in IL, No. 3 in 2028 class)
- CB spin: 2335 rpm (No. 14 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL, No. 17 in 2028 class)
Morton Potters
Head Coach: Ryan Lindley
Classification: 3A
Conference: Mid-Illini
2025 Record: 20-15 (lost in Regional semi-final)
Key Players Lost: Ryan Schaffnit, Andrew Brooks, Brandon Sieban
Season Highlights: Hudson Lovell hit 8 HRs last year as a sophomore. Combined with his 2 as a freshman he's in great position to break the school record of 17 in the next two years. SS/OF Owen Adams and 1B/P Cam Crawford both return for their senior year after finishing as second-team all league players in the Mid-Illini.
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Starting pitching.
Returning Positional Starters: 5
Returning Starting Pitchers: 3
Returning Relief Pitchers: 2
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Owen Adams | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Anderson Boss | IL | 2027 | RHP/OF | - |
| Collin Burns | IL | 2026 | RHP/3B | McHenry |
| Cameron Crawford | IL | 2026 | RHP/1B | Jefferson JC |
| Isaac Davis | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Camden Taylor | IL | 2026 | Dubuque | |
| Matt Sander | IL | 2026 | Millikin | |
| Sage Lelm | IL | 2028 | 3B/OF | - |
| Hudson Lovell | IL | 2027 | C/3B | - |
| Jude Parnham | IL | 2027 | - |
DATA CENTER
TEAM RANKS:
This data is sourced from the 2026 Illinois winter showcase circuit and some select 2025 events, compiled by Prep Baseball. We took the top-three metrics recorded by players from each high school in the following categories. Here is how Morton's top-three performers averaged across each category:
- Avg. Exit Velocity: 86.13 mph (No. 19 in 3A)
- Max Exit Velocity: 97.33 mph (T-No. 10 in 3A)
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Anderson Boss (2027) - RHP/OF - 6-3 , 188 lbs
- max fastball: 89.0 mph (T-No. 10 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL, 80th pctile. in 2027 class)
- vert. jump: 27.4 in (No. 7 in 3A, 92nd pctile. in IL, 90th pctile. in 2027 class)
- CB spin: 2198 rpm (No. 19 in 3A)
- Cameron Crawford (2026) - RHP/1B - 5-11.5 , 217 lbs
- max EV: 98.0 mph (T-No. 25 in 3A)
- Hudson Lovell (2027) - C/3B - 5-10.5 , 195 lbs
- bat speed: 73.0 mph (T-No. 19 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL, 83rd pctile. in 2027 class)
- C arm: 82.0 mph (T-No. 2 in 3A, T-No. 4 in IL, T-No. 3 in 2027 class)
- Sage Lelm (2028) - 3B/OF - 5-11.6 , 203 lbs
- rot. accel.: 24.0g (No. 4 in 3A, T-No. 20 in IL, T-No. 5 in 2028 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.61s (T-No. 6 in 3A, 93rd pctile. in IL, T-No. 3 in 2028 class)
- vert. jump: 27.1 in (No. 10 in 3A, 91st pctile. in IL, No. 15 in 2028 class)
- INF arm: 86.0 mph (T-No. 12 in 3A, 85th pctile. in IL, T-No. 14 in 2028 class)
Mt. Vernon Township Rams
Head Coach: Pierce Borah
Classification: 3A
Conference: South Seven
Key Players Lost: Alex Kiefer (Kaskaskia College), Diedrich Smith (Greenville University), Keaton Plummer
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Pitching
Returning Positional Starters: 6
Returning Starting Pitchers: 4
Returning Relief Pitchers: 2
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Trecor McClure | IL | 2027 | MIF/RHP | - |
| Cale Maurer | IL | 2026 | RHP | - |
| Ty Pierce | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Maxwell Nowak | IL | 2028 | RHP | - |
| Ryker Perigo | IL | 2027 | MIF | - |
| Nolan Mast | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Eli Prost | IL | 2026 | UTIL | - |
| Owen Burke | IL | 2028 | RHP | - |
| Bronx Hefner | IL | 2028 | INF | - |
Normal University Pioneers
Head Coach: Charlie Shempf
Classification: 3A
Conference: Central State 8
2025 Record: 26-8 Regional Champions
Key Players Lost: Ethan Kieser, Lawson Shickel, Max Willie, Will Paxson, Connor MacMillan, Braden Deverman, Deegan Aielts
Season Highlights: CS8 All Conference- Caleb Hornbrook. CS8 Honorable Mention- Griffin Meyer.
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Left side of infield, catcher, senior leadership, dynamic lineup 1-9.
Returning Positional Starters: 5
Returning Starting Pitchers: 2
Returning Relief Pitchers: 2
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Parker Roop | IL | 2027 | SS | Belmont |
| Cade Cunningham | IL | 2026 | RHP | - |
| Cole Brent | IL | 2027 | OF | Illinois |
| Rhett Lynch | IL | 2027 | C | - |
| Carson Freic | IL | 2027 | P | - |
| Caleb Hornbrook | IL | 2026 | C | Lake Land |
| Isaiah Giganti | IL | 2026 | P | DMACC |
| Griffin Meyer | IL | 2026 | INF | - |
| Isaac Schroeder | IL | 2028 | LHP | - |
| Wes Thompson | IL | 2028 | UTIL | - |
Oak Forest Bengals
Head Coach: Matt Gorney
Classification: 3A
Conference: South Suburban Blue
2025 Record: 23-14-1, Lost in sectional semis
Key Players Lost: Justin Gibbs, Vince Webber, Evan Gamboa
Season Highlights: Conference POY - Justin Gibbs
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Returning 4 All-Conference players from last year
Returning Positional Starters: 5
Returning Starting Pitchers: 2
Returning Relief Pitchers: 3
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Daniel Chopp | IL | 2026 | C/SS | - |
| Andrew Dawson | IL | 2026 | RHP | - |
| Bryce Hoffman | IL | 2026 | SS | - |
| Hayden Noha | IL | 2026 | P | - |
| Kevin Sullivan | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Gage Tokarz | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
DATA CENTER
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Daniel Chopp (2026) - C/SS - 5-9.5 , 165 lbs
- vert. jump: 25.5 in (82nd pctile. in IL)
- C arm: 81.0 mph (No. 4 in 3A, T-No. 14 in IL, T-No. 5 in 2026 class)
Ottawa Township
Head Coach: Levi Ericson
Classification: 3A
Conference: I-8
2025 Record: 18-17; lost to JCA in the regional championship
Key Players Lost: Jace Veith (IVCC)
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Pitching depth
Returning Positional Starters: 5
Returning Starting Pitchers: 4
Returning Relief Pitchers: 3
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Adam Swanson | IL | 2026 | C/OF | Bradley |
| Lucas Farabaugh | IL | 2026 | RHP/UTIL | Aurora |
| Brendyn Fuchs | IL | 2026 | 1B | Monmouth |
| Noah Mervin | IL | 2026 | RHP | Illinois Valley |
| Jack Carroll | IL | 2027 | LHP/OF | - |
| George Shumway | IL | 2027 | RHP/INF |
DATA CENTER
TEAM RANKS:
This data is sourced from the 2026 Illinois winter showcase circuit and some select 2025 events, compiled by Prep Baseball. We took the top-three metrics recorded by players from each high school in the following categories. Here is how Ottawa Township's top-three performers averaged across each category:
- Avg. Exit Velocity: 89.33 mph (T-No. 14 in 3A)
- Max Exit Velocity: 95.67 mph (T-No. 17 in 3A)
- Top 60-Yard: 7.02s (No. 9 in 3A)
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Adam Swanson (2026) - C/OF - 5-11 , 188 lbs
- max EV: 102.0 mph (T-No. 6 in 3A, 93rd pctile. in IL, T-No. 24 in 2026 class)
- avg EV: 96.2 mph (No. 5 in 3A, 97th pctile. in IL, No. 15 in 2026 class)
- bat speed: 74.2 mph (T-No. 12 in 3A, 90th pctile. in IL)
- max fastball: 88.0 mph (T-No. 19 in 3A)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.59s (No. 3 in 3A, T-No. 13 in IL, T-No. 5 in 2026 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.61s (T-No. 6 in 3A, 93rd pctile. in IL, T-No. 17 in 2026 class)
- vert. jump: 30.4 in (No. 1 in 3A, T-No. 12 in IL, No. 4 in 2026 class)
- OF arm: 91.0 mph (No. 2 in 3A, T-No. 17 in IL, T-No. 9 in 2026 class)
- C arm: 82.0 mph (T-No. 2 in 3A, T-No. 4 in IL, T-No. 2 in 2026 class)
- Lucas Farabaugh (2026) - 3B/C - 5-9.6 , 166 lbs
- C arm: 71.0 mph (No. 25 in 3A)
- IVB (rise): 16.0 in (T-No. 17 in 3A)
St. Francis Wheaton Spartans
Head Coach: Tom Ciombor
Classification: 3A
Conference: CCL-White
2025 Record: 26-10. Regional Championship. Lost is Sectional Championship
Key Players Lost: Joey Gainer, Colt Armbrust, Nolan Galla, Zack Maduzia
Season Highlights: CCL White POY - Joey Gainer and Pitcher of the year Nolan Galla.
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Some good live arms.
Returning Positional Starters: 2
Returning Starting Pitchers: 2
Returning Relief Pitchers: 2
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Colin Frank | IL | 2027 | INF | - |
| Matt Griffin | IL | 2027 | 3B/OF | - |
| Chase Grigonis | IL | - | ||
| Cayden Heise | IL | 2026 | 1B | - |
| Brayden Hobein | IL | 2026 | INF/P | Beloit |
| Jules Hoecker | IL | 2027 | C/OF | - |
| Matt Jania | IL | 2026 | C | - |
| Drew Keating | IL | 2027 | INF | - |
| Luvua Kellner | IL | 2026 | INF | - |
| Jonathan Katsantones | IL | 2027 | SS/RHP | - |
| James McGrath | IL | 2027 | OF | - |
| Richard (Richie) Ricciardi | IL | 2027 | OF/SS | - |
| Dillon Rukel | IL | 2029 | P/1B | - |
| Vaugh Howser | IL | 2028 | INF | - |
| Brennen Murphy | IL | 2028 | INF | - |
| Jose Samaniego | IL | 2027 | LHP/OF | - |
| Peter Solloway | IL | 2026 | P | Illinois Wesleyan |
| Liam Nugent | IL | 2027 | C | - |
| Michael Spahn | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Joey Zagotta | IL | 2027 | INF | - |
DATA CENTER
TEAM RANKS:
This data is sourced from the 2026 Illinois winter showcase circuit and some select 2025 events, compiled by Prep Baseball. We took the top-three metrics recorded by players from each high school in the following categories. Here is how St Francis - Wheaton's top-three performers averaged across each category:
- Avg. Exit Velocity: 89.60 mph (No. 10 in 3A)
- Max Exit Velocity: 98.00 mph (T-No. 7 in 3A)
- Top 60-Yard: 7.09s (No. 12 in 3A)
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- James McGrath (2027) - OF/OF - 6-06 , 203 lbs
- max EV: 100.0 mph (T-No. 13 in 3A, 86th pctile. in IL)
- bat speed: 73.5 mph (No. 17 in 3A, 88th pctile. in IL, 89th pctile. in 2027 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.79s (T-No. 15 in 3A, 90th pctile. in IL, 88th pctile. in 2027 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.65s (T-No. 24 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL)
- vert. jump: 26.9 in (T-No. 12 in 3A, 90th pctile. in IL, 87th pctile. in 2027 class)
- OF arm: 86.0 mph (T-No. 13 in 3A)
- Jonathan Katsantones (2027) - SS/RHP - 6-0.2 , 170 lbs
- rot. accel.: 22.0g (T-No. 8 in 3A, 95th pctile. in IL, T-No. 19 in 2027 class)
- Jules Hoecker (2027) - C/OF - 5-10.8 , 166 lbs
- C arm: 75.0 mph (T-No. 15 in 3A)
- Matt Griffin (2027) - 3B/OF - 6-2.6 , 201 lbs
- max EV: 100.0 mph (T-No. 13 in 3A, 86th pctile. in IL)
- avg EV: 92.7 mph (No. 16 in 3A, 89th pctile. in IL, 86th pctile. in 2027 class)
- rot. accel.: 25.0g (No. 3 in 3A, T-No. 11 in IL, T-No. 3 in 2027 class)
- INF arm: 84.0 mph (T-No. 21 in 3A)
- Richard (Richie) Ricciardi (2027) - OF/SS - 5-10.1 , 149 lbs
- rot. accel.: 22.0g (T-No. 8 in 3A, 95th pctile. in IL, T-No. 19 in 2027 class)
- OF arm: 85.0 mph (T-No. 16 in 3A)
St. Rita Mustangs
Head Coach: John Nee
Classification: 3A
Conference: CCL blue
Key Players Lost: Peyton Panozzo, Christian Clark
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Starting pitching and experienced catcher.
Returning Positional Starters: 4
Returning Starting Pitchers: 3
Returning Relief Pitchers: 3
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| TJ Burgos | IL | 2028 | SS/OF | - |
| Nick Cegielski | IL | - | ||
| Danny Foxgrover | IL | 2028 | 3B/RHP | - |
| Andre Gordon | IL | 2028 | OF/LHP | - |
| Aden Gutierrez | IL | 2028 | 2B/OF | - |
| Julio Guttierrez | IL | 2028 | UTIL | - |
| Ryan Jones | IL | 2027 | UTIL | - |
| Braden Quinn | IL | 2027 | SS | - |
| Jayden Ibarra | IL | 2027 | CIF/P | - |
| Vinny Stubitch | IL | 2027 | 2B/OF | - |
| Ian McGrath | IL | 2027 | P | - |
| Greg Zaber | IL | 2027 | P | - |
| Matt Mullins | IL | 2027 | P | - |
| Joshua Malinowski | IL | 2028 | RHP/RHP | - |
| JJ Quinlan | IL | 2028 | SS/OF | - |
| Colin Quinn | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Braden Quinn | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Colin Quinn | IL | 2026 | C | Heartland |
| Sully Kazee | IL | 2026 | P/1B | Harper |
| Will Rewers | IL | 2026 | P | St Ambrose |
| Nick Cegielski | IL | 2026 | P/1B | - |
| Luke Arteaga | IL | 2026 | 2B/OF | - |
| Joe Camer | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Aidan Partacz | IL | 2026 | P/OF | - |
| Liam Brazel | IL | 2026 | P | - |
| Anthony Petry | IL | 2026 | P | - |
| Vinny Stubitsch | IL | 2027 | 2B/OF | - |
DATA CENTER
TEAM RANKS:
This data is sourced from the 2026 Illinois winter showcase circuit and some select 2025 events, compiled by Prep Baseball. We took the top-three metrics recorded by players from each high school in the following categories. Here is how St. Rita's top-three performers averaged across each category:
- Avg. Exit Velocity: 87.57 mph (No. 15 in 3A)
- Max Exit Velocity: 96.00 mph (T-No. 15 in 3A)
- Max FB Velocity: 80.33 mph (No. 15 in 3A)
- Top 60-Yard: 7.16s (No. 14 in 3A)
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Aden Gutierrez (2028) - 2B/OF - 5-9.3 , 156 lbs
- OF arm: 84.0 mph (T-No. 24 in 3A)
- Ian McGrath (2027) - RHP - 5-10.6 , 186 lbs
- FB spin: 2219 rpm (No. 13 in 3A, 86th pctile. in IL, 82nd pctile. in 2027 class)
- Joshua Malinowski (2028) - RHP/RHP - 5-9 , 206 lbs
- IVB (rise): 18.2 in (T-No. 4 in 3A, 93rd pctile. in IL, T-No. 14 in 2028 class)
St. Viator Lions
Head Coach: Terry Beyna
Classification: 3A
Conference: East Suburban Catholic Conference
2025 Record: 20-18, IHSA Regional Champion
Key Players Lost: Allistair Kanyuh, Brock Harer, Braydon Hynek
Season Highlights: 2025 IHSA Regional Champion
ROSTER PREVIEW
Returning Positional Starters: 6
Returning Starting Pitchers: 2
Returning Relief Pitchers: 3
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Brandon Thomsen | IL | 2026 | C | Purdue |
| Jonathan Tschanz | IL | 2026 | SWIC | |
| Andrew Albritton | IL | 2028 | RHP/3B | - |
| Tanner Beyna | IL | 2027 | C/SS | - |
| Tommy Beyna | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Frank Clary | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Alec Harer | IL | 2027 | OF/SS | - |
| Adrian Ochoa | IL | 2027 | INF | - |
| Gianluca Pelligrino | IL | 2027 | INF | - |
| Kiernan Smith | IL | 2027 | LHP | - |
| Marcus Lawrence | IL | 2028 | LHP | - |
| Hunter Lockefeer | IL | 2028 | C/OF | - |
| Hunter Mills | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Ryan Mohr | IL | 2028 | 3B/RHP | - |
| Jacob Oberwise | IL | 2026 | - | |
| Kiernan Smith | IL | 2027 | LHP | - |
DATA CENTER
TEAM RANKS:
This data is sourced from the 2026 Illinois winter showcase circuit and some select 2025 events, compiled by Prep Baseball. We took the top-three metrics recorded by players from each high school in the following categories. Here is how St. Viator's top-three performers averaged across each category:
- Avg. Exit Velocity: 93.07 mph (No. 3 in 3A, No. 22 in the state)
- Max Exit Velocity: 101.00 mph (No. 2 in 3A, No. 23 in the state)
- Top 60-Yard: 6.89s (No. 5 in 3A, No. 29 in the state)
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Alec Harer (2027) - OF/SS - 6-1 , 173 lbs
- max EV: 101.0 mph (T-No. 9 in 3A, 90th pctile. in IL, 84th pctile. in 2027 class)
- avg EV: 94.7 mph (No. 9 in 3A, 93rd pctile. in IL, 90th pctile. in 2027 class)
- bat speed: 72.6 mph (No. 24 in 3A, 82nd pctile. in IL, 80th pctile. in 2027 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.70s (No. 8 in 3A, 96th pctile. in IL, T-No. 17 in 2027 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.60s (T-No. 3 in 3A, 95th pctile. in IL, T-No. 17 in 2027 class)
- OF arm: 88.0 mph (T-No. 8 in 3A, 83rd pctile. in IL, T-No. 21 in 2027 class)
- Brandon Thomsen (2026) - C/3B - 6-1.5 , 212 lbs
- max EV: 105.0 mph (No. 1 in 3A, T-No. 19 in IL, No. 9 in 2026 class)
- avg EV: 97.6 mph (No. 3 in 3A, No. 20 in IL, No. 10 in 2026 class)
- bat speed: 77.1 mph (No. 4 in 3A, No. 25 in IL, No. 18 in 2026 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.77s (T-No. 12 in 3A, 92nd pctile. in IL, T-No. 24 in 2026 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.62s (T-No. 12 in 3A, 92nd pctile. in IL, T-No. 22 in 2026 class)
- vert. jump: 29.4 in (No. 2 in 3A, No. 21 in IL, No. 9 in 2026 class)
- C arm: 84.0 mph (No. 1 in 3A, T-No. 1 in IL, No. 1 in 2026 class)
- Hunter Lockefeer (2028) - C/OF - 5-8.5 , 160 lbs
- bat speed: 73.6 mph (No. 16 in 3A, 88th pctile. in IL, T-No. 24 in 2028 class)
- OF arm: 85.0 mph (T-No. 16 in 3A)
- C arm: 73.0 mph (T-No. 19 in 3A)
- Tanner Beyna (2027) - C/SS - 6-1 , 178 lbs
- C arm: 78.0 mph (T-No. 9 in 3A, T-No. 19 in 2027 class)
Washington Panthers
Head Coach: Kyle Wisher
Classification: 3A
Conference: Mid-Illini
2025 Record: 28-11 IHSA 3A Regional Champions and Sectional Champions
Key Players Lost: Micha McCoy, Carter Prina, and Gavin Lawrence
Season Highlights: Won the MID-ILLINI Conference (13-1), IHSA 3A Regional Champions and Sectional Champions
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Defense, team speed.
Returning Positional Starters: 4
Returning Starting Pitchers: 3
Returning Relief Pitchers: 2
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Carter Bruer | IL | - | ||
| Von Bruer | IL | - | ||
| Cannon Foster | IL | - | ||
| Haydon Hawksworth | IL | 2026 | RHP | - |
| Gavin Jones | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Luke Kamienski | IL | - | ||
| Reid Martin | IL | 2028 | - | |
| Isaac Perez | IL | - | ||
| Jacob Rose | IL | - | ||
| Jackson Vanderheydt | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Camden Vescogni | IL | 2027 | - | |
| Max Virgil | IL | 2028 | - | |
| Peyton Yetter | IL | 2028 | - | |
| Anson Zaiser | IL | 2026 | C/RHP | - |
DATA CENTER
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Anson Zaiser (2026) - C/RHP - 5-9.1 , 179 lbs
- C arm: 78.0 mph (T-No. 9 in 3A, T-No. 20 in 2026 class)
Waterloo Bulldogs
Head Coach: Garrett Schlecht
Classification: 3A
Conference: Mississippi Valley
2025 Record: 25-11 Lost Regional Championship to Mascoutah
Key Players Lost: Patrick O'Donnell (SWIC), Max Oswald (SWIC), Chaten Kirchner (McKendree)
Season Highlights: Patrick O'Donnell(2025) All-State Honors for OF.
ROSTER PREVIEW
Team Strengths: Bulldogs have a deep, experienced pitching rotation, and plenty of depth at every position.
Returning Positional Starters: 6
Returning Starting Pitchers: 4
Returning Relief Pitchers: 3
| NAME | STATE | CLASS | POS | COMMITMENT |
| Caden Castello | IL | 2027 | OF/P | - |
| Tanner Chamberlain | IL | 2027 | 1B/OF | - |
| Avner Christian | IL | - | ||
| Trey Conrod | IL | 2027 | C/P/OF | - |
| Carter Jones | IL | - | ||
| Conrad Lindhorst | IL | 2026 | P/1B/OF | - |
| Drake Luedeman | IL | 2026 | 2B/SS | - |
| Austin Martin | IL | 2027 | 3B/OF/2B | - |
| Grant Nobbe | IL | - | ||
| Caleb Papenberg | IL | 2026 | OF | - |
| Cannon Richard | IL | 2027 | RHP/OF | - |
| Brady Schmidt | IL | 2026 | SS/2B | - |
| Chase Zimmerman | IL | 2028 | LHP/1B/OF | - |
DATA CENTER
INDIVIDUAL DATA STAND-OUTS:
- Cannon Richard (2027) - RHP/OF - 6-0.2 , 190 lbs
- max fastball: 89.0 mph (T-No. 10 in 3A, 84th pctile. in IL, 80th pctile. in 2027 class)
- 60-yd. dash: 6.75s (No. 11 in 3A, 93rd pctile. in IL, 92nd pctile. in 2027 class)
- 10-yd. split: 1.66s (81st pctile. in IL)
- vert. jump: 27.3 in (No. 8 in 3A, 92nd pctile. in IL, 89th pctile. in 2027 class)
- OF arm: 90.0 mph (T-No. 3 in 3A, T-No. 25 in IL, T-No. 9 in 2027 class)
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