Baseball: Scouting the 2026 DuPage County season
Addison Trail
Coach: Mike Kennedy, 13th season at Addison Trail, 22nd overall.
Last season’s record: 10-25 overall, 6-12 in the West Suburban Gold (sixth place).
Top returning players: Trevor Sosin, sr., OF/IF; Jonathon Valdez, sr., SS/P; Louie Franczak, soph., OF; Robbie Morales, soph., 3B/P; Eric DeBeau, jr., OF/P; Jack Carlson, jr., 1B.
Key newcomers: Tyler Igelman, sr., P/IF; Tyler Piotrowski, sr., P/IF/OF; Aaron Pastewski, jr., C/P; Nico Sanchez, jr., P/IF.
Worth noting: The Blazers were young last year, losing just four seniors off their 10-win squad. “Even though we will still be young, we bring back a lot of experience,” Kennedy said of a group headed by Sosin (.378), Valdez (.314, 51 IP, 4 wins), Franczak (.333, 28 of 30 stolen bases), and Morales (.300, 31 IP, 36 Ks). DeBeau and Carlson both return with 70-plus varsity at-bats from last season. “We return a lot on the mound in Valdez and Morales, with Pastewski adding depth,” said the coach. Pastewski missed last season with an ACL injury. “He is back behind the plate and looks stronger than ever,” said Kennedy. Sanchez and Piotrowski offer position versatility, while Igelman looks to take on a bigger role on the mound.
Benet Academy
Coach: Jorge Acosta, first season.
Last season’s record: 27-13 overall, 10-6 in the East Suburban Catholic (fourth place).
Top returning players: Quinn Rooney, jr., P/1B; Dominik Tomala, sr., C/IF/OF; Luke Doyle, sr., OF/IF; Lucas Kohlmeyer, sr., P; Ben Clevenger, sr., 3B/P; Jack Clevenger, sr., C/P; Nathan Cerocke, sr., 2B.
Key newcomers: Nicholas Kohlmeyer, soph., OF; Tyler Lakis, soph., C/IF; Tucker Lawler, soph., SS; Hawke Lawler, soph., Utility; William Hunt, soph., P/IF.
Worth noting: The Redwings enjoyed a record-breaking season last spring, earning their first Class 3A sectional title since 2017 and making their first downstate appearance since 1989 before bringing home a second-place state trophy. Rooney, a 6-foot-6 left-hander who is a 2027 Notre Dame commit, figures to lead the pitching staff. Playing in the rugged East Suburban Catholic against Nazareth, Joliet Catholic, Marist, St. Patrick, and St. Viator, among others, serves as idea preparation for Benet come postseason time. Benet will play 6 games during its spring trip to Knoxville, Tenn.
Downers Grove North
Coach: Kyle Briscoe
Last season’s record: 30-8, tied for first place in West Suburban Silver, lost in sectional finals.
Top returning players: Emillio Gandarilla, sr.; Jack Romsey, sr.; Drake Cosenza, sr.; Antonio Russotiesi, jr; Colin Doyle, jr., P; Angelo Chiarelli, sr.
Top new players: Sam Marshall, jr., IF/P; Nate Burcham, jr., IF; Oliver Gibson, jr., OF.
Worth noting: Loaded with talent, this season should be another banner one for Downers Grove North. Doyle, a Duke recruit, is one of the top pitchers in the Chicago area after finishing 7-2 with a 1.85 ERA as a sophomore. Gandarilla batted .333 with 22 RBIs and had 23 RBI. “With a strong defensive unit behind them, the pitching staff should continue to keep us in every game,” Briscoe said. “We bring back a few impact bats and have speed throughout the lineup. The strength of this year’s team is the depth of athletic juniors who gained experience during last year’s 30-win season. Our expectations are to compete for another conference championship and make a deep postseason run.”
Downers Grove South
Coach: Darren Orel
Last season’s record: 23-13, 16-2, first place West Suburban Gold.
Top returning players: Aiden Kanazawa, sr., IF; Vincent Junkas, jr., IF; James Sobkowiak, so., IF/P.
Top new players: Luke Potter, so., OF; Gavin Cigrand, so., OF; Nate Thurston, so., P; Jake Mytys, so., P; Jake Bucklar, jr., IF; Alex Clairborne, jr., OF/P.
Worth noting: The Mustangs have a good mix of returning standouts and young, but unproven underclassmen, which raises expectations for another quality season.
Fenton
Coach: Brian Peterson, third season.
Last season’s record: 5-25 overall, 0-14 in the Upstate Eight East (eighth place).
Top returning players: Michael Ramirez, jr., OF; Roman Chaidez, jr., 1B; Daniel Miguel, soph., P/OF; Andrew Trimarchi, soph., IF/P.
Key newcomers: Moises Arteaga, jr., C/OF; Ivan Luna, jr., P/IF/OF.
Worth noting: Peterson begins his third season at the helm for the Bison, who graduated versatile Luis Aguirre from last year’s squad. Following a 2-23 season two years ago, Fenton posted 5 wins last spring. The Bison begin their season at home Thursday against Waukegan.
Glenbard East
Coach: Clayton George, fifth season.
Last season’s record: 24-9 overall, 16-1 in the Upstate Eight East (first place).
Top returning players: Lucas Calderin, sr., OF/P; Josh Ziemer, sr., 3B/P; Nile Anderson, sr., P; Jayden Phistry, sr., P; Colin Laccount, jr., SS/2B/P; Carter Hoovel, sr., C.
Key newcomers: Tommy Lynch, sr., P; Tyler Hampton, jr., P/IF; Caleb Bruen, jr., OF/P; Daniel Wells, soph., OF/P; Jackson Turko, soph., IF/P; Mike Vercruysse, soph., OF/IF; Emmett Lavin, soph., C/IF.
Worth noting: The Rams return several experienced players from last year’s Upstate Eight East championship squad, including Parkland College commit Calderin and Elgin Community College commit Ziemer. “Our team features experienced returners with varsity time and talented newcomers who will make immediate contributions,” said George. Anderson (Coe commit), Phistry (South Suburban commit), Laccount (Concordia commit), Lynch (Carthage commit), Hampton, Bruen, Wells, and Turko are all expected to see time on the mound. “Our strengths will be pitching and defense, supported by a deep roster of players who can help us on the mound,” said the coach. “Consistency at the plate will be the key factor in our success this season.”
Glenbard North
Coach: Rich Smelko, 18th season as head coach, 27th overall.
Last season’s record: 13-21 overall, 4-17 in the DuKane (eighth place).
Top returning players: Leo Macias, sr., C; Dan Mahoney, sr., 3B; Filip Slomba, sr., 1B; Corey Truty, jr., OF; Kristian D’Alexander, sr., SS; Miguel Ibarra-Cantu, jr., P/IF; Alex Arens, sr., P; Chace Hylton, jr., IF; Brody Libel, jr., P; Zack Pirok, sr., P.
Key newcomers: Colin Foecking, jr., OF; Andrew Wegrzyn, jr., C; Ryan Reiger, jr., C.
Worth noting: The Panthers welcome several players back, including Macias (.300, 20 RBI), Slomba, .308, 23 RBI), Mahoney (.321), Truty (.286, 21 stolen bases), D’Alexander (.307), Ibarra-Cantu (22 RBI, 38 innings pitched), Arens (51 innings pitched), Libel (20 innings pitched), and Pirok (33 innings pitched). “I am really excited to see what this group can accomplish this year,” said Smelko. “We have a good group of kids and a ton of experience back this spring. We return 75% of our innings pitched from last year and several players have multiple years of varsity baseball. We know how difficult our conference is, but we are up for the challenge.”
Glenbard South
Coach: Marco Eufrasio, 10th season.
Last season’s record: 17-18 overall, 9-5 in the Upstate Eight East (third place).
Top returning players: Frankie Cassata, sr., OF; Tim Ewald, sr., IF; Gavin Pogorzelski, sr., IF/P; Evan Goldman, sr., P/IF; Dylan Taylor, sr., OF; Hunter Fort, sr., OF; Joe Cunningham, jr., C/OF; Lucas Wilder, jr., P/OF; Owen Marshall, jr., P; Jake Ruge, jr., P; Nate Melon, soph., 1B/P.
Key newcomers: Cooper Langreder, jr., OF; Tommy Bauman, jr., C/IF; Dominic Fratus, soph., IF; Nathan Stacy, soph., P.
Worth noting: “Our group has a good mix of experienced returning players who helped us have success last season and some talented newcomers who are ready to compete and make an impact,” said Eufrasio. Ewald hit .352 as a junior with a .465 on-base percentage, 32 hits, 20 RBI, and 8 doubles, while Pogorzelski batted .336 with a team-high 37 hits, including 10 doubles, 22 runs scored, and 5 stolen bases. On the mound, Wilder posted a 2.82 ERA as a sophomore. “The goal is to continue building on the foundation we established, play consistent baseball, and improve throughout the season,” said the coach. “If we do that, we believe we can put ourselves in position for a strong conference finish and a deep playoff run.”
Glenbard West
Coach: Andrew Schultz, 13th season at Glenbard West, 19th overall.
Last season’s record: 18-19 overall, 7-11 in the West Suburban Silver (fifth place).
Top returning players: Max Bakken, sr., SS; Sam Barrientes, sr., 3B/P; Alex Crouch, sr., P/OF; Mason Flaherty, sr., OF; Charlie Harvey, sr., OF; Max Hetlet, sr., C; Tommy Lewison, sr., P; Jasper Reeves, sr., C.
Key newcomers: Dylan Manna, jr., C/IF; Finn Sheeley, jr., P/3B; Sawyer Smith, soph., P; Eli Witcher, sr., P.
Worth noting: Playing in the rugged West Suburban Silver paid dividends for the Hilltoppers last season. Despite finishing with a 7-11 conference record, Glenbard West played its best baseball at the right time, knocking off third-seeded Geneva in the Class 4A regional semifinals (8-1) before earning the regional title with a 9-8 victory over No. 6 seed Glenbard East. Glenbard figures to be led by senior catcher Hetlet, who batted .426 with 27 RBI last season. On the mound, the Hilltoppers return a pair of solid arms in Lewison (33 IP, 5-1, 2.76 ERA) and Barrientes (28 1/3 IP, 3-1, 3.71 ERA, 2 saves). “This is a senior-led group, but we will receive major contributions from the younger guys as well,” said Schultz. “We’re dealing with a few preseason injuries but expecting those guys back full strength soon. We’re ready to show that we can compete with anyone.”
Hinsdale Central
Coach: Jason Ziemer
Last season’s record: 18-17, 7-11 West Suburban Silver
Top returning players: Dylan Kassab, sr., C; Patrick Connors, sr., OF/P; Billy Main, sr., IF/P; Aaron Katz, sr., P; PJ Doppke, sr., 1B.
Top new players: Owen Sunderson, jr., IF/P; Max Judge, jr., P/3B; Greyson Alesia, jr., 1B/OF; Matthew Tomfhorde, jr., OF; Liam Allen, jr., 3B; Charlie Miller, jr., 1B/P.
Worth noting: The Red Devils are primed for a run at the West Suburban Silver title behind a talented group of returnees, with several players committed to play in college. Kassab, a three-year starter, is one of the top players in program history. Connors, an elite athlete who set the school record for stolen bases last year, is also a solid pitcher. Main has emerged as one of the top arms in the conference, Ziemer said. “We return 90% of our innings pitching on the mound from last year, along with three starters in Billy Main, Dylan Kassab and Patrick Connors on offense,” Ziemer said. “We have a good amount of depth on the mound, along with some elite team speed and power in the middle of the lineup. The combination of strong senior leadership, starters returning on offense and in the field and a strong junior class rising to the varsity level should have us competing for a championship in a loaded West Suburban Silver.”
Hinsdale South
Coach: Sean Beesley
Last season’s record: 13-23-1, 7-11 West Suburban Gold
Top returning players: Alex Dunwoody, sr., IF; Braeden Koperski, sr., IF/P’ Ethan Rodriguez, sr., P; Jack McDaniel, jr., C/IF; Brady Miller, jr., IF/P.
Top new players: No players provided
Worth noting: The Hornets have a surplus of talent at key spots to have all the ingredients to be a team capable of making a run at a 20-win season. “This year we have a talented group of senior pitching that we plan to combine with a young crop of junior and sophomore positional players,” Beesley said. “We’ll be driven by our youth and hope that they can shine in a strong conference. This team should play with better energy, and we expect to see a different brand of baseball than in past years.
“Our seniors, including Koperski and Rodriguez, will anchor the pitching staff and have made huge jumps in the offseason. Younger players, such as McDaniel and Miller, have a year of experience on the varsity level. We expect them to take charge of the offense. We have a great batch of young players who are itching to join the varsity. This group wants to win and will compete for a conference championship this year.”
IC Catholic Prep
Coach: Frank DeAngelis, first season.
Last season’s record: 9-19 overall, 3-11 in the CCL White (seventh place).
Top returning players: Andre Brown, sr., IF/OF; Jacob Dominick, sr., Utility; Jaden Gonzalez, sr., SS/2B; Manny Deoudes, sr., SS/P.
Key newcomers: Rafael Garza, jr., IF.
Worth noting: The Knights hope to improve upon last year’s 9-win season with a new coach (DeAngelis) in 2026. Despite finishing seventh in the CCL White last spring, the Knights went on to capture the Class 2A regional title with a 4-2 victory over Westmont before losing to Hope Academy in the sectional semifinals. IC Catholic Prep, which heads to ‘Disney Spring Training’ March 30-April 3 in Orlando, begins its season at home Wednesday against St. Edward.
Lake Park
Coach: Dan Colucci, 28th season.
Last season’s record: 19-17 overall, 10-11 in the DuKane (sixth place).
Top returning players: Pat St. John, sr., P; Rocco Jones, sr., SS; Max Alvarado, sr., OF; Josh Kolton, sr., C/DH; Lucas Frankel, sr., P/OF; Nate Bergman, sr., P.
Key newcomers: Colt Hardman, soph., P/IF; Gaetano Lazzara, soph., P/IF; Patrick Harfoot, soph., C.
Worth noting: The Lancers return a lot of innings on the mound from last year, led by right-hander St. John (2.23 ERA). Offensively, Alvarado (22 R, 22 SB) figures to be a sparkplug at the top of the order, while Kolton (1 HR, .442 slugging percentage) provides some punch. “Our defense should be solid,” said Colucci. “We have the potential to get better as the year progresses as our younger players gain experience at the varsity level. They are a hard-working, smart group of players.”
Lisle
Coach: Luke Collins, second season.
Last season’s record: 5-25-1 overall, 1-13 in the Illinois Central Eight (eighth place).
Top returning players: Hunter McGrath, jr., SS/P; Andrew Schroeder, sr., 3B/1B; JT Tumbarelli, soph., utility.
Key newcomers: Jase Twining, jr., IF; Payton Swartzendruber, fresh., utility; Jack Paige, fresh., C.
Worth noting: The Lions finished the 2025 season on a positive note, putting together a 3-game winning streak that included a Class 2A regional championship victory over Northridge before losing to Latin in the sectional semifinals. “After winning a regional championship last season with zero seniors on the roster, we’re excited about the development of our returning players and the impact some of our younger players and newcomers can make this season,” said Collins. McGrath and Schroeder return as all-conference players a year ago. McGrath hit .338 with a .460 on-base percentage, scoring 21 runs and finishing a perfect 11 of 11 in stolen base attempts. On the mound, McGrath struck out 57 in 27 1/3 innings, limiting opponents to a .182 batting average. Schroeder hit .310 with 5 home runs, 8 doubles, and 30 RBI last spring.
Metea Valley
Coach: Stephen Colombe, seventh season at Metea, 14th season overall.
Last season’s record: 13-23 overall, 2-13 in the DuPage Valley (sixth place).
Top returning players: Michael Willhite, sr., C/IF; Ethan Singer, sr., P/IF; Kayden Nimer, sr., P/IF; Owen Goeb, sr., OF; Carter Behrns, sr., P/OF; Tyler Gluting, jr., P/OF.
Key newcomers: Diego Gutierrez, jr., P/IF; Griffin Lavery, jr., IF/P; Tyler Darche, jr., OF; Logan Phelan, jr., OF.
Worth noting: Returning 12 seniors, including 5 starting position players, the Mustangs are looking to bounce back and become bona fide DuPage Valley contenders this spring. Gluting, an Oklahoma recruit, is the 6th-ranked player in the state (Prep Baseball Report) from the Class of 2027. As a sophomore, the 5-11, 175-pounder hit .362 with a team-high 40 hits, including 3 home runs, 3 triples, 23 RBI, 31 runs scored, and 7 stolen bases. “We will have a young pitching staff with several juniors in our starting rotation, including Tyler Gluting,” said Colombe. Nimer, who earned All-DVC honorable mention status last year, tossed 29 2/3 innings a year ago with a 0.71 ERA. Willhite returns as a leader behind the plate, while Goeb swiped 9 bases as a junior. “Competition is always tough in the DVC, and we look forward to the challenge,” said the coach.
Montini
Coach: Eric Scott, third season, 17th overall at Montini.
Last season’s record: 21-16 overall, 9-5 in the CCL White (fourth place).
Top returning players: Blake Heyer, sr., P; Robert Sansone, sr., P; Nick Kois, sr., P; Quin Paprockas, sr., C; Nick Mandra, sr., IF; Rich Gewont, sr., OF/C; Nate Ramirez, sr., OF; John Louise, jr., P/IF; Julio Ayala, jr., IF; Kameron Cox, soph., IF.
Key newcomers: Bryce Ryan, sr., C; Sonny Mateja, soph., P/IF; Drew Chrastka, jr., OF/IF; Jack Spanos, jr., OF; Will Breier, soph., P/1B.
Worth noting: The Broncos return most of their innings on the mound from last year’s squad that reached the Class 3A regional championship game before falling to St. Francis. That group includes Holy Cross commit Heyer (4-2, 38 2/3 IP, 48 Ks, 3.07 ERA), Sansone (3-2, 38 IP, 2 saves, 31 Ks, 2.39 ERA), and Lewis University commit Kois. “The pitching will keep this team in lots of games,” said Scott. Offensively, Ayala (.302, 6 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR), McKendree commit Louise (.287, 23 RBI, 9 2B, 1 HR), Joliet Junior College commit Paprockas (.263, 3 HR, 20 RBI), and Cox (.226, 15 RBI, 15 R) figure to lead the way.
Naperville Central
Coach: Mike Stock, 29th season.
Last season’s record: 20-16 overall, 8-4 in the DuPage Valley (second place).
Top returning players: Grant Umbright, sr., 3B/P; Michael Page, sr., OF/P; Cooper Page, sr., SS; Casey Cooperkawa, sr., P/Utility; Ryan Marker, sr., P.
Key newcomers: Ryan Pall, jr., C/1B/DH; Declan Boyce, jr., P/OF; Lucas Wallace, soph., 1B/DH/P.
Worth noting: The Redhawks look to contend for the DuPage Valley title with the return of pitchers Umbright, Michael Page, Cooperkawa, and Marker, who posted a 2.62 ERA in 18 2/3 innings of work last season. Wallace, a left-hander, and Boyce head the list of underclassmen hoping to contribute on the mound. Offensively, Cooperkawa batted .291 with 16 hits, including a pair of doubles, and 13 runs scored last season, while Umbright hit .273 with a pair of doubles and a triple, while recording 5 stolen bases. Umbright fanned 5 times in 44 at-bats last spring. Cooper Page, a 3-year starter at shortstop, made 47 putouts as a junior. “We expect to compete for a DVC championship,” said Stock.
Naperville North
Coach: Jim Chiappetta, eighth season.
Last season’s record: 17-16 overall, 10-5 in the DuPage Valley (tied for first place).
Top returning players: Max Steele, sr., P/OF; Caden Vorwick, sr., OF; Brady Marino, jr., SS; Lawton Close, soph., P/IF; Sam Steele, soph., OF.
Key newcomers: Jack Ruderman, sr., P/IF; Noah Tumpane, jr., P/IF; Paxton Freeborn, jr., OF.
Worth noting: Naperville North lost some heavy production from last year’s co-DuPage Valley championship squad, including 4-year starting catcher and school career hit leader Zach Bava (Illinois State), but return a handful of players with experience and success on the field. Steele, a 4-year starter and All-DVC selection last season, will patrol center field when not on the mound. Steele, who hit .344 with 33 hits, including 5 doubles, 20 RBI, and 8 stolen bases, and posted a 2.37 ERA in 38 innings, is a Benedictine commit. Vorwick (.311, 28 hits, 17 runs scored), Marino (.232, 12 RBI, 11 runs scored), and Close (4 doubles, 15 RBI, 12 runs scored, 3.90 ERA in 25 innings) add valuable experience. “We should compete on the mound and will have good team speed and athleticism up and down the order,” said Chiappetta. “We graduated two of our top bats and arms, so we will be looking for others to step up and fill those spots. Overall, we will be on the younger side, so we will be looking forward to seeing how things play out at a couple positions.”
Neuqua Valley
Coach: James Thornton, eighth season at Neuqua Valley, 28th overall.
Last season’s record: 13-17-1 overall, 7-8 in the DuPage Valley (fifth place).
Top returning players: Andy Barkley, sr., CF/P; Colton Maita, sr., SS/P; Emmitt Briner, jr., OF/P; Josh Repmann, jr., 1B/P; Zac Chiz, jr., C/1B; Sam Widloe, soph., 3B/C.
Key newcomers: Christian Lott, sr., P/1B; Danny Mikuta, jr., OF/P; Kaden Kraemer, sr., IF; Malachi Sherman, jr., C/P; Jack Mackey, soph., OF; John Polcyn, soph., IF/P; Caden Kojak, sr., P.
Worth noting: “Although we are not returning a lot of varsity experience, we have an athletic team that should be competitive throughout the season,” said Thornton. Neuqua returns All-DuPage Valley honorable mention pick Barkley, who batted .323 with 31 hits, including 6 doubles, 2 triples, a home run, 20 RBI, and 27 runs scored last season. Maita (3 doubles, 7 RBI, 14 innings pitcher, 1-1 record, 1 save), Briner (28 1/3 innings pitched, 1-3 record, 1 save, 37 Ks), All-DVC selection Repmann (.343, 15 RBI, 32 innings pitched, 7 starts, 3-4 record, 3.93 ERA), Chiz (.250, 6 RBI), and Widloe (.293, .481 on-base percentage, 10 RBI, 17 runs scored) offer valuable experience. Lott transferred from Simeon Career Academy, where he was selected as the Chicago Public League’s Pitcher of the Year in 2025. Mikuta appeared in 8 varsity games a year ago, hitting .556 with 5 runs scored. “Three of the five expected starting pitchers have numerous varsity innings pitched, and what we lack in varsity innings played, could be made up with youth and athleticism,” said the coach.
St. Francis
Coach: Tom Ciombor, sixth season.
Last year’s record: 26-10 overall, 12-2 in the CCL White (first place).
Top returning players: James McGrath, jr., OF; Chase Grigonis, soph., IF; Peter Solloway, sr., P; Brayden Hobein, sr., IF/P.
Key newcomers: Vaughn Howser, soph., IF; Jose Samaniego, jr., P; Jules Hoecker, jr., C; Joey Zagotta, jr., 1B.
Worth noting: Ciombor has guided the Spartans to four Class 3A regional championships and three conference crowns in five years, including last year’s 7-1 regional title victory over Montini. Solloway, a hard-throwing right-hander, returns as the staff ace following last season’s performance that included a 7-2 mark and 1.31 ERA. Hobein, who went 2-0 with a 0.98 ERA in limited time last season, adds mound depth. McGrath, an all-state football player for the state champion Spartans this past fall, returns as one of the top center fielders in the area. “James McGrath is one of the top-rated juniors in the state, Chase Grigonis is one of the top sophomores in the state, and Dillon Rukel is one of the top freshmen in the state,” said Ciombor. “We will be a young team but expected to compete with a tough schedule.” St. Francis reached the 3A sectional finals a year ago before falling to Benet Academy.
Timothy Christian
Coach: Frank Romano, fourth season.
Last year’s record: 16-14 overall, 6-8 in the Chicagoland Christian (fifth place).
Top returning players: Jonah Roemmich, jr., OF/P; Johnny Tragos, jr., P; James Noll, jr., C/P; Brian Gannon, jr., IF/P.
Key newcomers: Braydon McMillen, fresh, IF; Eli Cook, fresh., IF.
Worth noting: If you are looking for a senior-laden team, Timothy Christian is not the team. “We have a very young team this year with only one senior on the roster,” said Romano. Each of the top four returning juniors are pitchers who contribute at other positions — Roemmich, Tragos, Noll, and Gannon. Last season, the Trojans finished the regular season with a 6-game winning streak before falling to St. Francis in the Class 3A regional semifinals. “We are excited to grow as a team throughout the season with a roster full of high baseball IQ players,” said the coach.
Waubonsie Valley
Coach: Bryan Acevedo, 12th season.
Last year’s record: 23-13 overall, 10-5 in the DuPage Valley (tied for first place)
Top returning players: Shane Torres, jr., C; Ryan Lucas, sr., IF/P; Nate Cerilli, sr., IF; Cooper Chapple, sr., P; Aidan Kornak, sr., P/3B/OF.
Key newcomers: Cole Ruggeri, jr., P; Cam Dellahousaye, jr., P; Scott Gillen, jr., IF/P; Parker Howland, jr., OF; Nathan Napolitano, sr., P/OF; Dean Alberson, sr., 1B; Jake Quinn, sr., P.
Worth noting: The Warriors look to continue their great run that began in 2024 as 2-time Class 4A regional and DuPage Valley champions. A year ago, Waubonsie captured its first sectional title since 2005 with a 5-0 victory over top-seeded Downers Grove North before dropping a 2-0 supersectional decision to Normal Community. Waubonsie graduated several standout players, including Owen Roberts (Indiana State), Hiroshy Wong (Waubonsee), Nick Lambert, and Seth Gilliland (UW-Whitewater). A few high-end arms will join Chapple on the mound in Dellahousaye (coming back from Tommy John surgery in 2024) and Missouri commit Ruggeri. Kornak figures to round out the top four with Napolitano, Quinn, and Gillen eating up the bulk of the remaining innings. Offensively, the lineup returns four players with 30-plus plate appearances from a year ago, headed by Oakland commit Torres (.327, 11 doubles, 15 RBI), Lucas (16 RBI, 21 walks), and Quincy commit Cerilli (.225, 11 RBI, 6 doubles, 14 runs scored). “If our high-end arms throw strikes, we have a chance to make another deep playoff run,” said Acevedo. “It is a great group of young men that are ready to prove themselves.”
West Chicago
Coach: Jim Karas, first season as head coach, fourth overall.
Last season’s record: 9-21 overall, 8-10 in the Upstate Eight West (fifth place).
Top returning players: Sam Zalak, sr., P/IF; Manny Figueroa, sr., DH/IF; Liam Zbierski, jr., P/IF; Ryan Bell, jr., P/IF.
Key newcomers: Anderson Campbell, jr., P/Utility; Lucas Wheat, jr., C/Utility.
Worth noting: The Wildcats have a new coach in Jim Karas, who is beginning his fourth season with the program. Zalak, who compiled a 2.41 ERA last season, figures to lead the pitching staff when not playing infield. Zalak finished with a team-high 17 RBI, 23 base hits, 16 runs scored, and 6 stolen bases a year ago. Figueroa posted a .431 on-base percentage last spring with a home run and 12 RBI, while Zbierski possesses solid speed on the basepaths, evidenced by his team-leading 19 stolen bases and 21 runs scored in 2025. “We are looking forward to competing against the best teams in the state and take pride in being a very difficult team to play against,” said Karas.
Westmont
Coach: D.J. Cocks, 15th season as head coach, 23rd overall.
Last season’s record: 24-12-1 overall, 12-1 in the Chicago Prep (first place).
Top returning players: Nikolai Baldwin, sr., P/3B; Ricky Yenkin, jr., P/Utility; Jaxson Chinea, jr., P/OF; Landon Hicks, jr., P/1B; C.J. Balcer, jr., P/C/DH; Hank Barrett, jr., P/OF/2B; Alex Meyer, soph., P/SS.
Key newcomers: Merrick Bloyd, soph., P/Utility; Alex De La Garza, soph., P/Utility; Jake Carney, fresh., P/OF; Max Meza, fresh., P/SS/2B/OF.
Worth noting: The Sentinels return most of their pitching from a 24-win team last season, led by staff ace Yenkin (4-4, 3.16 ERA, 69 Ks) and Balcer (5-2, 3.33 ERA, 30 Ks). Westmont has a deep pitching staff with 8 quality starters capable of winning games. Offensively, 14 players figure to see at-bats, paced by Yenkin (1 home run, 45 RBI, 5 triples), Balcer (.290, 25 RBI), Chinea (.378, 20 RBI, 49 runs scored, 23 stolen bases), and Baldwin (.377, 29 hits, 2 home runs, 29 RBI). “The depth of our team is strong this season,” said Cocks. The Sentinels are gunning for back-to-back Chicago Prep titles while aiming to make a postseason run. “The team staying healthy and scoring runs will be the keys,” said the coach.
Wheaton Academy
Coach: Justin Swider, eighth season as head coach, 12th overall.
Last season’s record: 21-15 overall, 9-5 in the Chicagoland Christian (third place).
Top returning players: Jackson From, sr., SS; Dom Murrell, sr., OF; Eli Tate, sr., DH/C; Lincoln Park, sr., P/IF.
Key newcomers: Mark Jackson, jr., OF; Colton Miller, jr., P/IF; Jy Cooks, sr., 1B/P.
Worth noting: The Warriors return a trio of veteran players and solid performers in From (.387, 13 doubles, 38 RBI), Murrell (.377, 38 runs scored, 22 stolen bases), and Tate (.347, 22 runs scored), along with starting pitcher Park (54 innings pitched, 2.46 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, 7 complete games). “We won conference two years ago and captured back-to-back Class 3A regional titles in 2023 and 2024,” said Swider. Last spring, Wheaton Academy dropped a 3-1 decision to Kaneland in the 3A regional semifinals. “We return a good amount of players who were newcomers last year,” added the coach. “We are looking to compete for a conference title this year and make another playoff run.”
Wheaton North
Coach: Dan Schoessling
Las t season’s record: 15-19, 11-10
Top returning players: Nic Pisciotta, sr., 3B/OF; Kyle Eddy, sr., 1B/P; Zander Zielinski, sr., OF/P; Jacob Kurz, sr., IF/P; Jacob Johnson, sr., SS/P; Alex Popham, sr., IF/P.
Top new players: Jacob Bergeron, sr., OF/P; Grant Kozlowski, sr., P/OF; Aidan Lucas, jr., IF/P.
Worth noting: The Falcons are brimming with next-level talent all over their roster. Pisciotta, a Chapman University recruit, is joined by Zielinski, a Clarkson University signee, Kurtz (Concordia University) and Johnson (Milliken University).
“I’m looking forward to our early season schedule to help us determine who are starting pitchers will be, as we don’t have many innings coming back on the mound,” Schoessling said. “I’m expecting our lineup to provide some consistent production at the plate. We’ll have competition for playing time at several positions.”
Wheaton Warrenville South
Coach: John Scherrman
Last season’s record: 15-19, 11-10
Top returning players: Reece Franks, sr., IF/P; Yiannis Bozonelos, sr., C; Charlie Carlson, sr., IF/P; Jacob Conover, sr., IF/P; Black Snyder, jr., IF/P; Clark Jensen, jr., OF/P; Brandon Esposito, jr., OF, Josh Manriquez, jr., OF/P; Caleb Mease, so., OF.
Top new players: Jonah Raney, jr., C; AJ Rogers, so., IF/P; Liam Precht, jr., IF; Eric Hecker, jr., IF; Landon Ligler, jr., OF/IF; Clark Bailey, jr., IF.
Worth noting: Franks, a Wheaton College recruit, is looking to improve on his all-conference showing last season. Bozonelos anchors a strong pitching staff, while Carlson is an athletic outfielder capable of making a big jump this season.
Conover, the DuKane Conference Player of the Year in 2025, is one of the top pitchers in the region after committing to Missouri Southern University.
“With several key upperclassmen returning to the lineup, we have the ability to have a great season with a very solid core group of returning players,” Scherrman said. “One of our greatest assets is our depth.
“We have tons of offense returning, and great defense and possess team speed that we expect to put pressure on opposing defenses. While we have a few reliable arms returning, who will step up as the definitive number two and three starters for us will be key.”
Willowbrook
Coach: Vic Wisner
Last season’s record: 26-10, 15-3, third place West Suburban Gold
Top returning players: Max Wikison, sr., CF; Jake Bonino, sr., RF; Charlie Roelle, sr., 2B; Alek Ramey, sr., 1B; Jory Crocker, sr., SS; Ben Swanson, jr., 2B/3B.
Top new players: Tommy Roele, sr., OF; Alex Dew, sr., OF; Alex Rodriques, jr., C; Jacob Byslma, sr., 3B.
Worth noting: Willowbrook has sky high expectations for this season, mainly because of its entire pitching staff back from last season and five position players. Led by Arizona signee, senior pitcher Noah Edison, the team is solid in the circle. Senior Bobby Biggs and junior Mikey Garner are players with high upsides.
York
Coach: River Pitlock, second season.
Last season’s record: 24-12 overall, 11-7 in the West Suburban Silver (fourth place).
Top returning players: Evan Mendiola, sr., C; Mason Shorter, sr., Utility; Danny Raible, sr., P.
Key newcomers: Donovan O’Connor, jr., IF; Blake Yankowski, jr., P; Nathan Patterson, jr., P/IF.
Worth noting: The Dukes have become a powerhouse of late, having won 4 consecutive Class 4A regional championships, including last year’s 8-3 triumph over St. Charles East. The Dukes lost several standout players from a year ago, including shortstop Josh Fleming (.510, 9 HR) and left-handed starting pitchers Jack Bodach and Jack Lonergan. However, they still return more than 100 of innings on the mound, led by Raible (1.51 ERA). “We expect to keep the score down and play competitive games, especially in a tough conference,” said Pitlock. Shorter (.345) and Mendiola (.339) figure to lead the offense.
— Bob Narang from Shaw Local News Network contributed to this preview.