Baseball: Scouting DuPage County
Addison Trail
Coach: Michael Kennedy (11 th season)
Last year’s record: 19-13 overall, 11-7 in West Suburban Gold (third place)
Top returning players: Lukas Trippiedi, sr., P/3B; Rafael Valdez, sr., P/1B; Gio Long, sr., P/1B; Justin Pozo, sr., P/2B; Damian Arjay Valdez, sr., C; Adrian Hernandez, sr., SS/P.
Key newcomers: Mario Sette, sr., OF; Andrew Pastrewski, sr., P/OF; Casey Carlson, jr., OF/P; Joe Rohlfing, jr., IF/P.
Worth noting: The Blazers look to build upon last season’s 19-win campaign and return the bulk of their pitching staff – 137 innings. Trippiedi, Rafael Valdez, Long, and Pozo all saw significant mound action last spring. Damian Valdez returns behind the plate for the third straight year, as do Trippiedi and Long at the infield corners. Hernandez and Pozo return as the Blazers’ middle infielders. “We have to replace production in the outfield lost to graduation, but several guys are ready to step in,” said Kennedy, whose team is looking to contend for the WSC Gold title. Rafael Valdez and Trippiedi are Oakton commits, while Long will play at Quincy University in 2025.
Benet Academy
Coach: Scott Lawler (12 th season)
Last year’s record: 17-14 overall, 7-5 in East Suburban Catholic (fourth place)
Top returning players: Marc Iozzo, sr., 3B; Jeremy DeWilkins, sr., C; Luc Lawler, sr., OF/P; Joe Coffey, sr., 1B; Brandon Cerocke, sr., IF; Charlie Kane, sr., OF; Jake Rifenburg, jr., P; Tristan Lakis, jr., P.
Key newcomers: Josh Gurgora, jr., utility; Ethan Mendoza, jr., utility; Gino Zagorac, jr., P.
Worth noting: The Redwings welcome the return of several vital pieces, including all-conference third baseman Iozzo, who hit .449 last spring, all-conference backstop DeWilkins (.449), and right-hander Lawler, who posted a 2.40 ERA as a sophomore and played half the season last year due to an elbow injury. Cerocke and Coffey saw part-time playing status last season, while Rifenburg went 3-2 with a 3.05 ERA as a sophomore last year. Benet has several players committed to colleges, including Iozzo (Miami of Ohio), Lawler (Evansville), Coffey (Baldwin Wallace), and Cerocke (Illinois Wesleyan). Lawler, who earned his 200 th career victory last spring, has guided the Redwings to 2 ESCC championships, 4 regional titles, and a sectional championship during his tenure.
Downers Grove North
Coach: Kyle Briscoe (seventh season)
Last year’s record: 32-5 overall, 16-2 in West Suburban Silver (first place)
Top returning players: Jimmy Janicki, sr., C; Jude Warwick, sr., SS; Ben Llewellyn, sr., P; Brady Schallmoser, jr., 1B/OF; Russ Oros, jr., OF.
Key newcomers: Zack Ziroli, jr., P/OF; Tommy Majchrowicz, jr., P; Edgar Santos, jr., OF.
Worth noting: After capturing the rugged WSC Silver title a year ago, the Trojans reload for another possible year of contention with the return of all-state catcher Janicki (.479, 6 home runs, 14 doubles, 51 RBI) and all-conference shortstop Warwick (.340, 2 home runs, 5 doubles, 4 triples, 17 RBI, 36 runs scored, who figure to be two key cogs on offense and defense. Schallmoser (.292, 9 doubles, 16 runs scored, 17 RBI) and Oros will provide help in the middle of the batting order. Llewellyn returns from a 4-2 junior mound campaign in which he threw 33 innings. The Trojans also have 15 juniors looking to make their mark on the varsity level this spring. “This is probably the most depth we’ve had at the varsity level in 25 years,” said Briscoe. “We feel we have a solid core that will be ready to compete for us this year. We have a good mix of kids that are prepared and working hard to get better.” The list of players with college commitments includes Janicki (Troy), Warwick (Michigan State), and Llewellyn (Minnesota State).
Downers Grove South
Coach: Darren Orel (26th season overall, 16th as head coach)
Last year’s record: 25-6 overall, 17-1 in WSC Gold (first place)
Top returning players: Jalen House, sr., OF; Will Potter, sr., SS; Brandon Howell, sr., P/3B; Sam Erickson, sr., P/1B; Wyatt Wawro, jr., OF.
Key newcomers: Tyler Maylath, jr., P; Gavin Powells, jr., 1B/OF/DH.
Worth noting: The Mustangs aim to repeat as WSC Gold champions, thanks to the return of Northern Illinois University-bound outfielder House and Missouri Southern State (Division 2) shortstop Potter. Also back are experienced pitchers Howell (Limestone University, S.C. – Division 2) and Erickson. When not on the mound, Howell and Erickson play third base and first base, respectively. Wawro adds outfield experience for the Mustangs, who look to avenge last season’s early tournament ouster – lost 3-1 to Waubonsie Valley in the Class 4A regional semifinals.
Fenton
Coach: Brian Peterson (first season)
Last year’s record: 4-18 overall, 4-14 in Upstate Eight (eighth place)
Top returning players: Miguel Sanchez, sr., SS/2B/P; Nate Dominguez, jr., 3B/OF/P; Nate Stewart, jr., SS/C/P; Luis Aguirre, jr., OF/P.
Key newcomers: Owen Siekerski, jr., P/SS/OF; Connor Cheney, soph., 3B/C/P; Adrian Miguel, soph., 2B/SS/OF.
Worth noting: Peterson, who served as Fenton’s freshman/sophomore assistant coach last season, takes over the varsity position this spring. “I am extremely motivated to make the program consistently competitive moving forward,” said Peterson. Stewart, who was the starting quarterback this past fall, returns for his third varsity season as a starter, while Aguirre begins his second varsity campaign. “We’re a young, scrappy team that has immense potential for growth this season,” said the coach. “Despite facing numerous close defeats last year, we’re geared up to turn the tables. Our main focus is to avoid beating ourselves by executing routine plays and ensuring that we put the ball in play consistently.”
Glenbard East
Coach: Clayton George (eighth season)
Last year’s record: 15-18 overall, 12-6 in Upstate Eight (fourth place)
Top returning players: Trevor Rehnstrom, sr., P; AJ Vartanian, sr., IF/P; Brett Vercruysse, sr., IF; Chris Ludwig, sr., IF/P; Connor Peckham, jr., C; Ryan Frano, jr., OF/P; Brian Kud, jr., P; Devin Kraft, jr., OF.
Key newcomers: Horacio Solis, jr., IF/P; Konard Toth, jr., P; Lucas Calderin, soph., OF/P
Worth noting: The Rams return seven players that have had significant varsity playing experience while also adding newcomers that will contribute in many ways. “The strengths of our team will be our pitching and defense,” said George. “We have a solid group of kids that will contribute on the mound, and we have solid players defensively that will make the routine plays. The key to our season is for us to click offensively.” George added that for his team to reach its goals, it must perform in all aspects of offensive baseball. Ludwig is an Elmhurst University commit.
Glenbard North
Coach: Rich Smelko (24th season at school, 14th season as head coach)
Last year’s record: 10-21-1 overall, 5-16 in DuKane (eighth place)
Top returning players: Josh Christman, sr., IF/P; Jacob Christman, sr., 1B; Kaiden Feinstein, sr., OF/P; Lorenzo Filice, sr., OF; Wyatt Sabalaskey, sr., C; Justin Carlson, sr., P/IF/OF.
Key newcomers: Zach Larson, jr., IF/OF; Jeremey Cooney, jr., P/IF; Joe Baran, jr., P/IF; Corey Truty, frosh., P/IF/OF; Brody Libel, frosh., P/IF.
Worth noting: The Panthers return their top two pitchers from last season – Josh Christman and Feinstein – with plenty of varsity experience. “We really like both of those guys and feel really confident when they are on the hill,” said Smelko. Sabalaskey and Filice, who batted .323 with 15 RBI last spring, both have pop at the plate and are expected to make major offensive contributions. When not pitching, Josh Christman can supply offense evidenced by his 12 RBI a year ago. “We are going to need some guys to step up and replace (graduated) Sam Palmer, Steve Hobbs, and Matthew Betancourt,” said the coach. “We have some intriguing freshmen this year that will practice and play some games with us this spring. We hope they can stick around for our tough conference schedule.”
Glenbard South
Coach: Marco Eufrasio (eighth season)
Last year’s record: 17-18 overall, 11-7 in Upstate Eight (fifth place)
Top returning players: Christian Pogorzelski, sr., IF/P; George Thomos, sr., P; Anthony Colby, sr., OF; Tommy Burke, jr., 1B/P; Joe DeMeo, jr., IF/P; Nicky Louapre, jr., C/IF; Gavin Pogorzelski, soph., IF/P; Tim Ewald, soph., IF/P.
Key newcomers: Jacob Garbett, jr., OF/P; Hunter Fort, soph., OF.
Worth noting: Expect the Raiders to build on a strong pitching staff and defensive effort from last season. To contend for a conference title and make a deeper playoff run, the Raiders need to continue to develop offensively. “This will be a fun team to watch,” said Eufrasio. Pogorzelski is a Dominican University commit.
Glenbard West
Coach: Andy Schultz (11th season)
Last year’s record: 12-22 overall, 5-11 in West Suburban Silver (fifth place)
Top returning players: Joey Campanella, sr., OF; Braeden Groszek, sr., IF; CJ Desmond, sr., P; Nico Ruoti, sr., SS/OF.
Key newcomers: Jack Humble, sr., P/IF; Joey Lewison, jr., 1B; Max Hetlet, soph., C.
Worth noting: Schultz has high expectations for this squad, led by Campanella, who earned all-conference and all-area recognition after hitting .435 with a .516 on-base percentage. Groszek, committed to North Central, batted .271 as a junior, while John Carroll commit Desmond compiled a 2.77 ERA last season. The Hilltoppers have a great balance of senior leadership and young talent – 14 seniors return. “We have more depth on the mound than we did a year ago and should be able to put some runs on the board offensively,” said Schultz. “We’re solid defensively as well – this team has a lot of potential.” Ruoti (Trine), Kristian Shinohara (John Carroll), and Carter Laubinger (Ripon) are other college commits.
Hinsdale Central
Coach: Jason Ziemer (11th season)
Last year’s record: 19-14 overall, 10-8 in West Suburban Silver (third place)
Top returning players: Aidan Conners, sr., P/3B; Ben Dynis, sr., P; Will Kusak, sr., OF; Tyler Frisoni, sr., 1B; Luke Jurack, sr., utility; Zach Gurland, sr., OF.
Key newcomers: David Leung, jr., OF; Jackson Clark, jr., P; Patrick Connors, soph., utility; Riley Contreras, soph., OF; Dylan Kassab, soph., C; Billy Main, soph., IF.
Worth noting: The Red Devils look to build on a 3-year run that was one of the best in school history with a strong group that includes a mix of seasoned and hard-working seniors and talented younger players. Ziemer hopes that an aggressive offensive game will lead to an exciting brand of baseball. On the mound, the Red Devils figure to be led by Conners, who posted a 3-1 record and 2.27 ERA with a 0.86 WHIP last season. The UW-La Crosse recruit pitched well down the stretch last season, shutting out York, which went on to finish 4 th in the state (Class 4A), and beating a top-25 Lemont squad. Jurack will wrap up a strong high school career as a 4-year starter and leader on offense.
Hinsdale South
Coach: Sean Beesley (eighth at the school, second as head coach)
Last year’s record: 11-23 overall, 8-10 in West Suburban Gold (fourth place)
Top returning players: Andrew Miller, sr., IF/P; Nathaniel Fundator, sr., OF/P; Brandon Elting, jr., IF/P; John Kadolph, jr., IF.
Key newcomers: Shane Walker, sr., OF; Matthew Jaffrey, jr., IF.
Worth noting: The Hornets plan on a bounce-back season after struggling to get things going last year. “We have a blend of experience and newcomers in our expected lineup this year,” said Beesley. “We had a lot of very young players get opportunities last year, and we hope to see those guys make a big jump.” Miller, who is headed to the College of DuPage this fall, earned all-WSC Gold honors last season. Other college committed players are Walker (Vermont State-Castleton) and Fundator (Minnesota State-Moorhead – football).
IC Catholic Prep
Coach: Dan Mustari (third season)
Last year’s record: 12-16 overall, 8-4 in Metro Suburban Red (tied for first place)
Top returning players: Dennis Mandala, sr., CF; Joey Michels, sr., C/3B; Owen Bruns, sr., OF.
Key newcomers: Max Russ, jr., P; Jayden Dotson, jr., P/IF.
Worth noting: Russ is expected to be the Knights’ Opening Day starter on the mound. Mandala, who was the Knights’ quarterback this past fall, will patrol center field on the diamond this spring, while Michels starts behind the plate. Mustari said that Bruns has great potential as a corner outfielder. “My expectations for this team is progression as the season continues,” said the coach. This is the Knights’ first season in the Chicago Catholic League. “Our goal is to work hard and prepare for the state tournament,” said Mustari. Three players are committed to colleges, including Mandala (North Central for football and baseball), Michels (Elmhurst) and Bruns (Ripon).
Lake Park
Coach: Dan Colucci (26th season)
Last year’s record: 23-14 overall, 11-10 in DuKane (third place)
Top returning players: Ryan Colucci, sr., 2B; Derek Ittner, sr., SS; Jayden Patel, sr., 3B; Jacob Folkes, sr., 1B; Dan Dellaria, sr., OF/2B; Sebby Alvarez, sr., P; Lew Slade, sr., P; Dylan Bergman, sr., P; Jake Adcock, sr., P.
Key newcomers: Gavin O’Neil, jr., P/1B.
Worth noting: The Lancers will field a very senior-dominated team this season with a lot of returning varsity innings on the mound. Colucci and Ittner both earned all-conference honors last spring. Colucci hit .345 with 26 RBI and 38 hits, including 2 home runs, 3 triples, and 11 doubles, while Ittner batted .391 with 34 runs scored and 34 hits, including 5 triples and 4 doubles. Pitchers Alvarez and southpaw Bergman each won 4 games last spring, while Adcock recorded 3 victories. “We should have an excellent defensive team and should compete on the mound as well,” said Lancers coach Dan Colucci. “They are a tight group of players that enjoy playing the game.” The Lancers have several players committed to colleges, including Colucci and Slade (Southwestern Illinois), Patel (Parkland), Ittner (Illinois Wesleyan), Folkes, Dellaria, and Alvarez (Oakton), Brayden Clancy, James Kelley, and Gustaov Vivas (Harper), Carter Simmons and Jack Okun (Kishwaukee), Christian Deshazer (St. Xavier), and Joey Cicero (Carthage).
Lisle
Coach: Pete Meyer (17th season)
Last year’s record: 7-20-1 overall, 3-11 in Illinois Central Eight (seventh place)
Top returning players: Kyle Grutzmacher, sr., 1B/3B; Luke Heidenry, sr., SS/2B; Matt Kane, sr., C/IF; Jake Mitchell, sr., 2B/SS; Andrew Schroeder, soph., P/C/IF; Myloe Thordson, soph., P/OF.
Key newcomers: Shiv Patel, jr., OF; James Saxman, jr., P/utility; Ethan Hsu, soph., P/3B/OF; Charlie Crescenzo, jr., P/3B/OF; Nolan Ashmore, frosh., P/IF/C; Hunter McGrath, frosh., P/IF; Noah Nigro, frosh., 1B/P/OF.
Worth noting: Meyer begins his 33 rd year of coaching, 17 th as the Lions’ head baseball coach. They return some experience in seniors Grutzmacher, Heidenry, Kane, and Mitchell. “It will be fun to see how much my young pitchers have improved in the offseason,” said Meyer. “They will be the key to our success.”
Metea Valley
Coach: Steve Colombe (fifth season)
Last year’s record: 14-20 overall, 7-8 in DuPage Valley (fourth place)
Top returning players: Jeremy Wrona, sr., OF/DH; Daniel Bastidas, sr., C; Liam Wagner, sr., P/3B; Kyle Bucher, sr., P/SS.
Key newcomers: Owen Myket, sr., P/OF; Matt Reilly, jr., P/C/IF/OF; Connor Lavery, jr., P/1B; Anthony Cassano, jr., P/IF; Jordan Shoemaker, jr., P/OF; Tyler Gluting, frosh., P/OF.
Worth noting: Metea Valley offers plenty of opportunities for fresh faces after graduating 13 players from the Class of 2023. Wrona hit .370 with a .457 slugging percentage and .500 on-base percentage last spring, while Bastidas batted .404 with a .606 slugging percentage, 17 extra-base hits, and 18 RBI a year ago. “We return two everyday players -Wrona and Bastidas - to our lineup that have been all-conference selections in the past,” said Colombe. “We are leaning on their experience to lead our team this season.” The list of players committed to colleges includes Bastidas (Heartland Community College), Wrona (College of San Mateo), and Myket (Wheaton).
Montini
Coach: Eric Scott (first season)
Last year’s record: 19-14 overall, 7-10 in CCL White (third place)
Top returning players: Cash Campbell, sr., IF/P; AJ Manganello, sr., C; Jack Calcagno, sr., P; Dom Catalano, sr., OF/P; Quinn Boyer, sr., OF/P; Matt Zeman, sr., OF; Anthony Spidale, sr., P; Marcus Williams, sr., IF; Sonny Bertucci, sr., C; Drew Church, jr., IF/P; Max Bell, jr., OF.
Key newcomers: Anthony Dinkel, sr., P; Malik Johnson, sr., OF; Nick Sheeran, jr., IF; Blake Heyer, soph., P; Johnny Louise, frosh, IF/P; Julio Ayala, frosh, IF.
Worth noting: With 7 returning starters and 3 players being 4-year varsity starters – Boyer (IHSBCA all-state as a junior), Campbell, and Catalano, expectations are high. The Broncos look to compete for a CCL White championship, as well as a trip to the Class 3A state finals. The Broncos have several players committed to colleges, including Campbell (Iowa), Catalano (UIC), Boyer (Miami of Ohio), Church (Eastern Illinois), Calcagno (Tampa), and Manganello (Northwood). “Offensively and defensively, we are going to be really strong,” said Scott, who has 14 years of coaching experience. “I don’t see many teams with a more powerful offensive lineup.”
Naperville Central
Coach: Mike Stock (13th season)
Last year’s record: 21-10 overall, 11-4 in DuPage Valley Conference (first place)
Top returning players: No returning starters.
Key newcomers: Jacob Gervase, sr., IF; Will Clermont, sr., P; Chase Reeder, jr., P.
Worth noting: The Redhawks rebuild after capturing the DuPage Valley Conference title last spring. Stock doesn’t return a single starter, but that doesn’t mean the Redhawks won’t field a competitive squad. “We expect to compete for our fourth conference championship and be prepared to succeed in the regionals and beyond,” said the coach, whose team dropped a tough 4-1 regional semifinal decision to Plainfield East a year ago. The list of players committed to colleges includes Gervase (UW-Platteville), Clermont (Milwaukee Area Tech), and junior Reeder (Illinois State).
Naperville North
Coach: Jim Chiappetta (sixth season)
Last year’s record: 15-12-1 overall, 8-7 in the DuPage Valley (third place)
Top returning players: Jackson Prentice, sr., P/1B; Zak Sumser, sr., P; Scott Walker, sr., OF; Zach Bava, jr., C; Yash Desai, jr., P; Max Steele, soph., OF/P.
Key newcomers: Will Richards, sr., 1B; Brady Marino, frosh., IF.
Worth noting: The Huskies’ strength to start the season figures to be on the mound, led by Sumser (4-3, 3.50 ERA, 44 IP, 29 Ks), Steele (2-1, 3.06 ERA, 30 IP, 29 Ks), Prentice (2-1, 2.62 ERA, 16 IP, 23 Ks), and Desai (1-1, 1 save, 1.82 ERA, 15 IP, 13 Ks). “We return a lot of experience on the mound – over 100 innings in total,” said Chiappetta. “We will need to replace a good chunk of our offensive production from last season but also have some strong returners looking to build off of solid seasons last spring, led by Bava (.408, 40 hits, 3 HR, 27 RBI), Prentice (.345, 30 hits, 22 RBI, 14 runs scored), Steele (.301, 25 hits, 1 HR, 7 doubles, 17 RBI), and Walker (.345).” Bava, a 2-time all-DVC selection, is committed to play at Illinois State in 2025-2026, while Prentice and Richards are headed to McHenry County College and Benedictine, respectively. Additional support will be provided by senior outfielder Matt Randal (.318 in 23 games) and junior infielder Matt Sonnenschein (.243 in 26 games as a sophomore).
Neuqua Valley
Coach: James Thornton (10th year at school, sixth as head coach)
Last year’s record: 16-15-1 overall, 9-6 in DuPage Valley (second place)
Top returning players: Dan Cercello, sr., P; Andrew Gould, sr., IF; Matt Knapczyk, sr., CF; Paul Feret, sr., OF; Peter Pipikios, sr., OF/P; Alex Voegele, sr., RF/P; Josh Buerstetta, sr., LF; Blake Camaj, sr., IF; Sebastian Guzman, sr., P; Nehemiah Dean, sr., P; Mike Langan, jr., 3B/P; Carson Stevens, jr., C/DH.
Key newcomers: Will Zalabak, sr., 1B/P; Daniel Marketti, sr., 1B/P; Zach Khazen, sr., 1B/P; Daniel Kim, sr., P; Dante Valdivia, jr., C/DH; Kiet Truong, jr., IF/P.
Worth noting: With 16 seniors on the roster, leadership should not be an issue, according to Thornton. “Three infielders, all three outfielders, and one the catchers returns,” said the coach. Five pitchers also return with experience. “If we pitch well, we should be more competitive this year,” added Thornton. Players committed to colleges include Cercello (Houston), Feret (Purdue-Northwest), Gould (Maryville), Knapczyk (Parkland), Pipikios (North Park), Voegele (Dominican), Zalabak (Roosevelt), and junior Stevens (Wabash CC). For the first time since 2000, Wildcats coach John Fumagalli will not be in the dugout after retiring following the 2023 campaign.
St. Francis
Coach: Tom Ciombor (fourth season)
Last year’s record: 27-9 overall, 10-2 in Metro Suburban Blue (first place)
Top returning players: Andrew Mueller, sr., IF/P; Trey Kiesler, sr., C/IF; Luc Swiatek, sr., OF; Nick Sparacio, sr., IF; Dylan Ston, sr., 1B; Cole Danner, sr., OF; Zack Maduzia, jr., SS; Colt Armbrust, jr., P; Joey Gainer, jr., C/IF.
Key newcomers: Logan Swaney, sr., P/OF; Brady Carroll, jr., OF; Peter Solloway, soph., P; James McGrath, frosh., OF.
Worth noting: Last season, the Spartans captured conference and regional championships, and are looking for more with 7 starters returning from a 27-win team. St. Francis expects to compete for another conference title if its pitching depth holds up. “We have won 69 games the last three years, with three straight regional championships (second time in school history) and a sectional title,” said Ciombor. “We have gone downstate twice in the last 10 seasons as well and will be looking for a third trip downstate.” Mueller, a 3-year varsity starter, compiled a 2.25 ERA as a junior, and is committed to Loras. Armbrust earned all-conference honors after finishing 6-1 with a 1.12 ERA as a sophomore, while Maduzia and Swiatek batted .374 and .338, respectively, while also receiving all-conference recognition.
Waubonsie Valley
Coach: Bryan Acevedo (10th season)
Last year’s record: 13-19-1 overall, 6-9 in DuPage Valley (fifth place)
Top returning players: Ben Ford, sr., OF; Luke Elsea, sr., P; Ryan Morton, sr., P; Riley Roberts, sr., P; Ryan Gustaitis, sr., C; Hiroshy Wong, jr., DH/3B; Owen Roberts, jr., SS/2B; Josh Hung, jr., OF.
Key newcomers: Sean Carroll, sr., P; Seth Gilliland, jr., P; Noah Pilon, jr., 1B; Seth Nielson, jr., OF; Connor Beren, jr., 3B; Shane Torres, frosh., utility; Cole Ruggeri, frosh., P.
Worth noting: The DuPage Valley looks to be up for grabs after Naperville Central graduated its core of 2023 graduates who won three straight conference titles. “This season should be a fresh start with no clear frontrunner,” said Acevedo. “Several teams return quality pitching.” The Warriors return some arms, led by Elsea (2-4, 26 Ks, 27 2/3 IP), Morton (1-4, 3.21 ERA, 26 Ks, 28 1/3 IP), and Riley Roberts (1 win, 1 save, 17 Ks, 14 1/3 IP). With several high-end arms added to the rotation, the Warriors hope to compete for the DVC title this spring. Ford, an Illinois Wesleyan commit, batted .267 with 2 doubles, 2 triples, 17 runs scored, and 14 RBI last season. Gustaitis (.419, 43 AB), Owen Roberts (.259, 14 RBI, 85 AB), and Hung (.328, 11 RBI, 17 R, 61 AB) return with some varsity experience. “We will be young again but with an improved defense and more dynamic offense, there are high hopes for the 2024 season,” said the coach.
West Chicago
Coach: TJ Nall (eighth season)
Last year’s record: 11-13 overall, 9-9 in Upstate Eight (sixth place)
Top returning players: Brandon Heath, sr., SS/P; Tyler Heath, sr., 1B/P; Rafael Herrera Mota, sr., IF/P; Kyler Campbell, sr., C/P; Tommy Doyle, jr., OF.
Key newcomers: Zach Williamson, jr., IF/P.
Worth noting: The Wildcats reached the .500 mark in the Upstate Eight last spring and could improve if some things fall into place this season. “We have a good group of returning seniors as well as some juniors that should step in and allow us to be more competitive,” said Nall. Brandon Heath, Mota, and Campbell are right-handed hurlers, while Tyler is a southpaw pitcher. The Heath brothers are committed to Oakton.
Westmont
Coach: D.J. Cocks (21 st season overall, 13 th at Westmont)
Last year’s record: 22-14 overall, 4-8 in Metro Suburban Red (sixth place)
Top returning players: Lucas Hicks, sr., CF/SS; Noah Grimm, sr., C/P/3B; Briggs Templeton, jr., P/CF/1B; Rocco Damato, jr., C; Nikolai Baldwin, soph., SS/P.
Key newcomers: Nathaniel Ollier, jr., P; Jaxson Chinea, frosh., OF/P; Ricky Yenkin, frosh., OF/P.
Worth noting: The Sentinels bring back nearly their entire roster and are primed to build off their 4 th-highest win total of any season in school history. The entire pitching staff returns from a strong unit that boasted a 3.27 team ERA and held opponents to a .241 batting average. Hicks, last year’s Metro Suburban Red Player of the Year, hit .461 with 47 hits, 59 runs scored, 6 home runs, 11 doubles, and 33 RBI as a junior. Westmont will play 6 conference games this season – 2 each against Elmwood Park, Ridgewood, and Riverside-Brookfield. In addition to St. Rita and Waubonsie Valley, the Sentinels have first-time matchups against Mather, King, Lincoln Park, Hansberry, and Yorkville Christian. Cocks is also hoping for the return of mound ace Noah Valentin at some point this spring after missing last season with a back injury.
Wheaton Academy
Coach: Justin Swider (10th season overall, sixth at Wheaton Academy)
Last year’s record: 29-7-1 overall, 7-3 in Metro Suburban Blue (second place)
Top returning players: Eric De Costa, sr., P/3B/1B; Will Clegg, sr., 1B/3B; Jacob York, sr., SS/2B; Will Osterholm, sr., P; Nate Burden, sr., P.
Key newcomers: Brandon Kiebles, jr., OF; Gino Spinelli, jr., OF; Bryce Legel, jr., P; Jackson From, soph., IF/C.
Worth noting: Coming off their single-season best record in program history, the Warriors lost three 3- and 4-year varsity starters to graduation, leaving some holes at shortstop, in the outfield, on the mound, and behind the plate. Now, it’s time for some guys to step up, outfielders like juniors Kiebles and Spinelli – guys who played last year but will need to be key contributors this spring. De Costa returns after an all-state season that included a 1.45 ERA and 58 strikeouts along with a .459 batting average with 6 home runs and 45 RBI. Swider feels the University of Cincinnati recruit has some MLB draft stock possibilities coming into the season on the mound with a fastball reaching the low 90s (mph). York and Clegg batted .388 and .346, respectively, last spring. York scored 29 runs with 25 RBIs, while Clegg lashed 14 doubles with 29 RBIs. Osterholm, meanwhile, posted a 5-0 mound mark and 2.17 ERA a year ago, while Burden recorded 38 strikeouts. Moving up to Class 3A, the Warriors will compete in the new Chicagoland Christian Conference. “We are looking to play some great baseball and continue the momentum from last year,” said Swider. “We have a great senior class from play to leadership, and the boys are hungry and ready to build on last year’s regional title.”
Wheaton North
Coach: Dan Schoessling (24 th season)
Last year’s record: 16-19 overall, 10-11 in DuKane (fourth)
Top returning players: Logan Straube, sr., OF; Patrick Dillow, sr., 1B/P; Jack Speers, sr., OF; Connor Speers, sr., 3B; Carter Johnson, jr., 1B/P; Rich Schilling, jr., OF/P; Luke Bellini, jr., 2B.
Key newcomers: Caleb Schauer, sr., 2B; Jake Williams, jr., IF/P; Alex Karlovitz, jr., C; Blake Cesarone, jr., C/OF; Max Burke, jr., OF; Cale Zoeller, jr., P/OF.
Worth noting: The Falcons look to improve upon last season’s rare sub-.500 record, led by Straube, who earned all-DuKane Conference honors after leading the team in RBI as a junior. Dillow fanned 37 batters in 31 innings last spring, while Johnson hit .323 as a sophomore. “We’re a team with a deep lineup that should score runs,” said Schoessling, who has guided the Falcons to 7 regional titles and a pair of sectional titles, including a 4 th-place Class 4A state finish, as well as 423 career victories in 23 seasons at the helm. “There are some questions with pitching and defense that need to be answered,” said the coach.
Wheaton Warrenville South
Coach: John Scherrman (seventh season)
Last year’s record: 13-21 overall, 6-15 in DuKane (seventh place)
Top returning players: John Jensen, sr., OF; Luke Scherrman, sr., OF/P; Chris Myers, sr., IF; Jayce Maranell, sr., IF/P; Aidan Dalby, sr., OF; Ryan DeMars, sr., IF; Corey Gul, sr., OF; Connor Mazurek, sr., P; Jack Coluzzi, sr., P/IF; Kam Couch, sr., P; Nico Olszewski, jr., IF; Mason Monce, jr., C.
Key newcomers: Ben Schrage, sr., C; Aiden Weck, sr., P; Jimmy McAuslan, sr., P; Aidan Quartz, jr., OF; Ryne Adler, jr., OF/P; Jacob Conover, soph., IF/P.
Worth noting: The Tigers look to rebound with an experienced group that captured the Lake Park Class 4A regional title with a 5-3 win over the host Lancers before losing to Batavia in the sectional semifinals. It was the Tigers’ first regional crown since 2009. WWSouth returns 8 lineup starters and 5 pitchers this spring. “This group has the potential to take a step up from last season,” said Scherrman. The Tigers should be improved both on the mound and in the field, with the ability to score some runs. “This is a very hard working and tough group of kids that are great competitors,” said the coach. Players committed to colleges include Jensen (McHenry CC), Scherrman (Southeastern CC), Coluzzi (Oakton CC), and Couch (Loras).
Willowbrook
Coach: Vic Wisner (13 th season)
Last year’s record: 22-11 overall, 15-3 in West Suburban Gold (second place)
Top returning players: Gabe Ness, sr., P; Aiden Baerenklau, sr., OF; Dylan Jenkins, sr., P; Ryan Knebel, sr., IF/P; Vince Aiello, sr., C; Sam Maresse, jr., OF; Vince Ippolito, jr., C/DH; Ryan Bannon, jr., IF.
Key newcomers: Jory Crocker, soph., IF/P; Bob Biggs, soph., P; Noah Edison, soph., P.
Worth noting: The Warriors will be young but talented, as both lower levels captured conference championships last season. On the mound, the Warriors return ace Ness, who earned WSC Gold Pitcher of the Year honors as a junior. Knebel hit over .300 in a part-time role last spring and figures to provide a powerful bat in the lineup, while Crocker, a top 2026 recruit, plays shortstop and handles some of the pitching. “He has a had a great offseason and much is expected,” said Wisner. “Our pitching staff will be young with sophomores Biggs and Edison in the middle of the rotation. We will be very competitive and look to make a long playoff run.” Willowbrook, which finished two games in back of Downers Grove South last spring, looks to dethrone the Mustangs in the WSC Gold this season.
York
Coach: Dave Kalal (15th season)
Last year’s record: 25-15-1 overall, 10-8 in West Suburban Silver (third place)
Top returning players: Ryan Sloan, sr., P; Chris Danko, sr., OF/P; Paul Reedy, sr., 3B; Josh Fleming, jr., SS/2B; Ryan Lisowski, jr., 1B.
Key newcomers: Ben Dizillo, jr., P; Luke Pieczynski, jr., IF; Austin Grzywa, jr., OF; Jack Lonergan, jr., P.
Worth noting: How competitive is the West Suburban Silver? York posted a fourth-place state finish in Class 4A last spring yet finished third in its conference standings. The return of Wake Forest-bound Sloan bolsters the Dukes’ hopes this spring. The right-handed fireballer earned all-state and all-conference honors a year ago after finishing 5-1 with a 0.79 ERA, including 97 strikeouts in 53 innings. Offensively, the Dukes figure to be led by Danko, an Illinois State commit who hit .317 with 38 hits – 15 for extra bases, 43 runs scored, 42 RBI, and 13 stolen bases. Fleming, the WSC Silver Player of the Year last season, batted .446 with 54 hits, including 7 home runs, 23 doubles, 47 runs scored, and 38 RBI. Lisowski and Reedy batted .276 and .250, respectively, last season. “We hope to compete for the conference title and make another playoff run,” said Kalal, whose team aims for its third consecutive 4A sectional title in 2024.