Prep Baseball Report

3A Watchlist: Teams to Know


Illinois Scouting Staff

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:
Returning Starting Pitchers:
Returning Relief Pitchers:

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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