Baseball: Scouting the Fox Valley
Aurora Central Catholic Coach: Sean Bieterman (5th year)
Conference: Metro Suburban
2016 record: 20-14, 12-7
Top returning players: Seniors Jimmy Laurenti (CF), Johnny Belskis (SS), Michael Bieterman (C), Austin Behrens (P/1B), Kyle Nylo (OF), Patrick Flanagan (OF), junior Kyle Czerak (2B/P).
Top newcomers: Senior John Cosgrave (P), junior Hunter Darnell (3B), sophomores Alex Rakas (1B/DH), Garrett St. Clair (P).
Season outlook: Bieterman remembers his team's sluggish final week of play in the Metro Suburban a year ago as much as he does the fact that the Chargers claimed a share of the conference title. "We lost two of our last three conference games and that helped allow us, Glenbard South, Riverside-Brookfield and Wheaton Academy to finish in a four-way tie for first," said the coach. Despite the graduation loss of All-Area pitcher-outfielder Jake Smith (. 478), ACC welcomes back experienced seniors in Laurenti, Belskis and Michael Bieterman. Laurenti earned all-conference status last season. "We have a pretty experienced group of guys," said Bieterman. "I like the type of team we have. If we get the pitching, I feel we can do some nice things this year. We've established ourselves as a good program and with it come a high level of expectations."
Aurora Christian Coach: Andy Zorger (10th year)
Conference: Northeastern Athletic
2016 record: 24-7-1, 14-0
Top returning players: Seniors Tanner Dissell (SS/OF), Jacob Brothers (P/1B), Ethan Stoneberg (3B/P), junior Eric Hernandez (P/OF).
Top newcomers: Senior Robert Lewis (IF/P), sophomores Sam Tickel (C/OF/2B), MJ Stavola (OF), freshman Jake Kuntzendorf (P/IF).
Season outlook: After winning the Northeastern Athletic Conference crown with an unblemished 14-0 record last year, Aurora Christian's postseason hopes ended with a Class 2A regional title loss to eventual third-place state finisher Rockford Lutheran. This time around, however, the Eagles won't have 4-year varsity standouts Drew Wagner (Baptist University) and R.D. Lutze (University of Illinois-Springfield) to lean on. "After losing our top two pitchers and top three hitters, this season looks a little different from the past few," said Zorger. "The biggest question we face is pitching depth." Offensively, the potential is there with the return of Dissell (. 352, 19 RBI, 27 R) and Stoneberg (. 362, 10 2B, 27 RBI). Defensively, Zorger expects solid catching and outfield play. The Eagles move down to Class 1A this season. "We hope to compete for a regional title and should be up near the top of our conference again," said Zorger.
BartlettCoach: Devin Rosen (1st year)
Conference: Upstate Eight Valley
2016 record: 16-18
Top returning players: Seniors Jake Flint (OF), David Jaske (IF),
Eric Johanssen (C), Scott Ruedel (C), Frank Novello (1B), Alex Rodriguez (3B), Ryan Sharko (RHP), Max Smithberg (RHP), Ryan Temesvary (OF).
Top newcomers: Juniors Joey Allen (OF), Ben Fisher (CF), Tyler Yang (SS/RHP)
Season outlook: The Hawks are under new management. First-year head coach Devin Rosen takes over for Chris Pemberton, who stepped down at the end of last season. Rosen teaches at St. Matthew's in Glendale Heights and works as a rehabilitation/sports personal trainer. He has been a Bartlett High underlevel baseball coach since the summer of 2014. He has the advantage of having coached this year's seniors as freshmen. To improve on last year's 16-18 record, the Hawks must lower their 4.39 team ERA. Leading the rotation will be seniors Brandon Kendall and Max Smithberg. Kendall last season went 3-2 with a 3.38 ERA. In 49.2 innings he struck out 60 and walked 21. Smithberg is the son of Elgin Sports Hall of Famer Roger Smithberg, a star pitcher at Larkin who played for Bradley and, eventually, the Oakland A's. Rosen said Smithberg is an effective finesse pitcher who "gets the most out of his stuff and moves the ball around." Outfielder Ryan Temesvary will also be part of what Rosen estimates will be a five- or six-man rotation. Offensively, the Hawks graduated a pair of .400 hitters and no returnee hit above .300 last season. The new coach expects production from Frank Novello, Jake Flint, Scott Ruedel and Temesvary, all seniors. The Hawks will manufacture runs, too. "We have to do the little things right to minimize damage and make sure we compete with every team we play," Rosen said.
Batavia Coach: Alex Beckmann (1st year)
Conference: Upstate Eight River
2016 record: 24-12, 16-6 conference
Top returning players: Seniors Glenn Albanese Jr. (P/OF), Luke Golson (P), John Lemon (C/IF), Tyler Munoz (C), junior Jared Martin (SS/P).
Top newcomers: Seniors Jake Robinson (P/1B), Brent Norkus (P/OF), Drew Mueller (OF), juniors Anthony Carlini (utility), Jake Seng (P).
Season outlook: For the first time since 1992, the Bulldogs have a new head coach as Beckmann takes over for Matt Holm (448-341 record). "I could not be more excited," said Beckmann, who has served as a varsity assistant the past 4 seasons. The 2008 Batavia grad was a 3-year varsity starter for the Bulldogs before playing collegiately at Northern Illinois. "I learned a lot from Matt (Holm)," said Beckmann, 26. "He has been and still is a great mentor to me." Four of the Bulldogs' 12 losses last season came at the hands of eventual Class 4A third-place finisher St. Charles North, including a 4-3 setback in the Schaumburg sectional finals. Batavia will miss graduated All-Area standouts Tyler Kledzik (. 353, 8 HR, now at Elmhurst College) and Kyle Niemiec (. 400, 4 HR, 32 RBI, 35 R, now at Butler) but return starting pitchers Albanese Jr. and Golson. The 6-6, 225-pound Albanese Jr., a hard-throwing right-hander who is committed to Louisville, finished 7-3 with a 3.13 ERA and 63 strikeouts in 53 2/3 innings last season while also providing a big stick (. 434, 22 RBI, 28 R). "Glenn is a special athlete and a great leader," said Beckmann. Martin, who started at shortstop on the varsity level as a sophomore, also saw time on the mound while Robinson enjoyed a solid summer season. They will have a varsity veteran to throw to in Munoz, who possesses extra-base power. "We have a lot of pitching depth," said the coach. "I'm really excited about the next few years here. This is the best talent we've had here in a long time across the board." Batavia's early season schedule includes a pair of spring break games against Willowbrook and Naperville North on Wheaton College's all-turf Pfund Field. The Bulldogs begin UEC River play with a 3-game series against defending champion St. Charles North April 4-6. "We're up to the challenge," said Beckmann.
Burlington Central Coach: Kyle Nelson (12th year)
Conference: Kishwaukee River
2016 record: 20-13, 10-3 Big Northern East
Top returning players: Seniors Ryan Knowlton (3B/1B/P), David Lauber (OF/P), Clay Milas (2B/P), Josh Noeska (OF/P), Brandon Van Buren (1B); Junior Paddy McKermitt (SS)
Top newcomers: Senior Dylan Berry (P); Juniors Bradley Dinges (IF/P), Nick Matijevic (C), Caden Scott (OF), Zach Schutta (OF)
Season outlook: The Rockets return the heart of their infield from a team that finished second in the Big Northern East, led by shortstop Paddy McKermitt (. 329, 14 RBI) and second baseman Clay Milas (. 343, 8 doubles, 2 triples, 32 runs, 13 steals). Together the double-play combination committed just 15 errors in 186 combined chances. Fellow senior Ryan Knowlton (. 250, 8 doubles, 18 RBI) returns at third base, where he made only 6 errors in 102 chances. Also returning are outfielders David Lauber (. 300, 9 doubles, 19 RBI, 15 steals) and Josh Noeska (. 244, 4 doubles, home run, 14 RBI). The pitching rotation has yet to be determined but favorites to be part of it are seniors Noeska, Lauber, Dylan Berry and Brandon Van Buren and junior Bradley Dinges. Van Buren last season went 3-2 with a 3.23 ERA in 21.2 innings, striking out 23 and walking 10. Lauber went 2-0 with a 2.18 ERA. "We return almost our entire infield and we have a lot of innings coming back on the mound," Central coach Kyle Nelson said. "We have depth at almost every position and on the mound but are looking for one or two pitchers to step up and grab the No. 1 and No. 1 starter jobs."
Cary-GroveCoach: Don Sutherland (30th year)
Conference: Fox Valley
2016 record: 23-12 (12-5 FVC Valley)
Top returning players: Seniors Ben Baruth (IF), Mike Eletheriou (RHP), Jake Kuhl (LHP/1B), Ben Levicki (OF), Matt McCumber (RHP), Tom Neilson (DH), Kevin Pedersen (C/OF), Tyler Pennington (C/OF), Justin Trausch (IF/OF), Colin Walsh (OF), Zach Willis (IF)
Top newcomers: Juniors Matt Brieg (C), Luc Bressett (IF), Ryan Ignoffo (RHP/OF); Sophomore Quinn Priester (RHP/OF).
Season outlook: Defending FVC Valley co-champion Cary-Grove is positioned to make another title run in the revamped FVC. In light of contraction from 13 league schools to nine, FVC teams face each other in 3-game series this season rather than the home-and-home scenario of recent years. Pitching will be a Cary-Grove strength, led by senior Matt McCumber, Mike Eletheriou and sophomore Quinn Priester. McCumber, committed to NIU as a junior, went 8-4 with a 2.07 ERA. He threw a perfect game against Dundee-Crown. In 64.1 innings McCumber struck out 64 and walked 20. Priester can only be described as a phenom. Identified as an elite college prospect on the travel baseball circuit, the right-hander pitched for the Crystal Lake Cardinals. Though the 6-foot-3, 175-pound 16-year-old has yet to throw a varsity pitch, he has offers from Michigan, Notre Dame, Illinois and Northwestern. Eletheriou (2-2) appeared in 7 games last season, including 2 starts. He struck out 18 and walked 13 in 20.1 innings. The offense is led by senior Tyler Pennington, a returning all-area pick with a stunning slash line of .398/.508/.680. Outfielder Ben Levicki should improve upon a strong junior season in which he hit .355 (22 of 62) with 5 doubles, 2 triples, a home run and 15 RBI.
Crystal Lake South GatorsCoach: Brian Bogda (10th season, 191-104)
Conference: Fox Valley
2016 record: 26-7, 14-5 FVC Valley
Top returning players: Seniors Griffin Bright (C/OF), Luke Dunham (P), Andrew Engelking (P), Kory Olsen (IF), Ryan Parquette (C), Michael Swiatly (C/OF), Nick Wolski (1B/OF/P); Junior Kyle Lang (P)
Top newcomers: Senior Brian Fuentes (IF); Juniors Blake Kuffel (1B), Scott Skwarek (IF), Noah Tyrrell (1B/P); Sophomore Kyle Hetherington (OF/P)
Season outlook: The Gators are back for another bite. The reigning Fox Valley Conference Valley Division co-champs are loaded with talented hitters and a veteran pitching rotation, assets that again make CL South a title contender in one of the toughest public-school baseball conferences in the state. Back in the lineup from a team that hit .341 last year are all-FVC picks Michael Swiatly (. 372, 16 SB, 27 R, 17 RBI) and St. Xavier recruit Griffin Bright (. 355, 35 R, 22 RBI. Mt. Mercy-bound Kory Olsen led the Gators last year with a .393 batting average (35 for 89). He scored 33 runs. Missouri-St. Louis commit Nick Wolski batted .333 (27 of 81) with 6 doubles and 29 RBI. Also returning is junior infielder Scott Skwarkek, who hit .400 after a varsity call-up midway through last season. The rotation should be formidable, led by third-year varsity pitcher Andrew Engelking (4-1, save, 3.70 ERA, 37 K, 39.2 IP), committed to St. Xavier. Senior Luke Dunham is a 6-foot-2, 200-pound right-hander who will pitch next year at Dubuque. Dunham went 5-0 his junior season with a 3.54 ERA. He struck out 21 in 27.2 innings. Junior Kyle Lang also returns (3-1, 3.87 ERA, 21 K, 21.2 IP). It's the kind of rotation that gives CL South a shot in any 3-game series against fellow FVC contenders Huntley, Cary-Grove, Jacobs, Dundee-Crown and McHenry, particularly when combined with the experienced lineup. "We have a lot of position players back from last year, so that should be a strength for us," CL South coach Brian Bogda said. "The biggest obstacle that stands in our way is the traditionally strong FVC."
Dundee-Crown Chargers Coach: Matt Mueller (first year)
Conference: Fox Valley
2016 record: 16-16, 8-9 FVC Valley
Top returning players: Seniors Brett Buske (P/IF/OF), Ryan Denz (IF), Sean Jay (IF), Jon Mays (C/OF), Conor Ryan (P/1B), Greg Williams (OF), Scott Wojcik (P/IF/OF); Junior Erik Hedmark (P/OF)
Top newcomers: Juniors Zach Hahn (C/IF), Jackson Prigge (IF), Jack Waldron (P/IF)
Season outlook: New coach Matt Mueller inherits 12 returning seniors and a junior pitching ace from a team that went 16-16 last year against a tough schedule. Heading the rotation is junior right-hander Erik Hedmark. He finished his sophomore season with a team-leading 2.13 ERA in 42.2 innings, struck out 44 and walked 8. Senior Conor Ryan is next in line and the staff has "lots of pitching depth after them." Mueller said. To finish in the upper echelon of a very deep Fox Valley Conference, D-C must improve at the plate. The Chargers batted .264 and hit one home run last season. Mueller is hoping for big seasons from senior infielders Sean Jay (. 286, 17 runs), Ryan Denz (10 RBI) and senior outfielder Greg Williams (. 764 OPS). "Our lineup is talented from top to bottom," Mueller said, "and we focused our off-season training on adding power to it."
Elgin MaroonsCoach: David Foerster (11th year)
Conference: Fox Valley
2016 record: 6-29, 4-21 UEC River
Top returning players: Seniors Hayden Gibson (C), Juniors JC Fortmann (SS/P), Matt Turner (3B/P/1B), RJ Bartlett (1B/P), Payton Reynolds (OF/P)
Top newcomers: Senior Carlos Esparza (2B/SS/OF), Cam Jackson (OF), Jackson Sitter (P/3B/2B), Andrew Staine (2B/OF); Sophomores Kyle Coates (P/3B/C), Tim Mitchell (OF/P/1B)
Season outlook: The Maroons go young this season with an eye to the future. Three seniors populate the 14-man roster. Of that group, only catcher Hayden Gibson saw significant varsity playing time last year. The Maroons look to improve at the plate after hitting .232 as a team in 2016, though they graduated their only .300 hitter in Brandon Stork, who hit .340. Junior JC Fortmann returns to anchor the infield as a shortstop. Sophomore Tim Mitchell will lead a revamped outfield, according to Elgin coach David Foerster. The pitching staff will feature four juniors - Matt Turner, Fortmann, RJ Bartlett and Jack Sitter - and sophomore Kyle Coates. Those pitchers won't ride the bench in between starts. "Most of our pitchers will be playing other positions when not pitching," Foerster said. "It is a relatively inexperienced pitching staff so any innings that our pitchers get early in the year will be very important ... We should have more power this year with Turner, Bartlett and Coates giving us some pop."
Elgin Academy HilltoppersCoach: Steve Shapiro (fifth year)
Conference: Northeastern Athletic
2016 record: 21-10, 8-4 NAC
Top returning players: Seniors Jonathan Cruz (SS/P), Andrew Wilson (2B/1B), Ian Wilson (3B/C/P)
Top newcomers: Senior Justin King (P); Junior Jordan Hare (OF/P/C); Sophomore Kevin Kuykendall (OF/P)
Season outlook: The Hilltoppers return the heart of the order from a team that won 21 games and the school's first baseball regional championship, led by Class 1A All-State pick Ian Wilson. The all-area and all-Northeastern Athletic Conference selection batted .376 (32 for 85) with 8 doubles, an area-leading 6 triples and 3 homers. He slugged .716 and reached base in half his plate appearances. Second-team all-stater Jonathan Cruz also returns. The dual threat batted .402 (37 for 92) with 7 doubles, 4 triples, 2 home runs and 25 RBI. On the mound Cruz went 4-1, struck out 76 hitters and walked 22. He posted a 2.30 ERA in 48.2 innings. All-NAC pick Andrew Wilson hit .305 last spring with 4 doubles and 21 RBI. Juniors Jordan Hare (6-3, 175) and Kevin Kuykendall (6-1) are welcome additions to a team that lacks depth beyond the big three. The goals remain clear cut for coach Steve Shapiro: "To maintain one of the strongest GPAs in the state as well as still (be) playing baseball in the month of June," he said.
Geneva Coach: Brad Wendell (1st year)
Conference: Upstate Eight River
2016 record: 24-12, 16-8
Top returning players: Seniors Noah Davison (P), Dylan Baer (OF/P), Jeremy Davis (CF), Jack Olson (OF), junior Josh Rose (C).
Top newcomers: Seniors Jason Peruba (2B), Ryan Belloli (P), Matt Evert (P/OF), Conor Cook (1B), Graham Owen, juniors Ian Hanson (P), Dom Guido (IF), Cullen Geary (OF/P), Sean Sinisko (1B/P).
Season outlook: Wendell, a 3-sport athlete at Buffalo Grove before playing baseball and football at Augustana, takes over for longtime head coach Matt Hahn (257-153 record). Hahn guided the Vikings to 20-win seasons in 11 of the past 12 years. "I'm excited about the opportunity and hope to do as good a job as Matt," said Wendell, who has been the Vikings' sophomore coach the last two seasons. "We're going to focus on teamwork while staying positive and being relentless." Geneva graduated its entire infield (except catcher) after posting its best fielding percentage in school history. Peruba, Guido and Cook are battling for starting infield spots with the third base position currently "wide open." Rose, who batted .269 and drove in 19 runs, returns behind the plate to bolster the team's defense. Davis (. 250), Baer (15 RBI) and Olson (12 RBI) are back in the outfield while Davison (4-3, 2.61 ERA) figures to be the ace of the pitching staff. "I think we'll have a deep staff," Wendell said of a group that includes Baer, Hanson, Owen and southpaws Evert, Geary (St. Francis transfer) and Sinisko (ACC transfer). Wendell calls defending champion St. Charles North the team to beat in the UEC River. "I just hope we're in the hunt," he said.
HampshireCoach: John Sarna
Conference: Fox Valley
2016 record: 18-15
Top returning players: Seniors Carter Lawler (IF/RHP), Noah Schrader (OF/LHP); Junior Matt Wians (C/IF)
Top newcomers: Sophomores Matt Jachec (RHP/IF), Trevor Laffin (RHP/OF), Logan Nespor (RHP/IF)
Season outlook: Hampshire must replace two important pitchers in graduated Michael Kruse and Jacob Manning, who started 17 of 33 games and were responsible for 7 of 18 victories. Replacing those innings will fall mainly to senior Carter Lawler and sophomores Matt Jachec and Logan Nespor. In 9 appearances over 18.1 innings last season, Lawler went 2-2 with a 2.29 ERA. He struck out 32 and walked 13. Hampshire coach John Sarna said Jachec and Nespor "are advanced pitchers who will be able to help us out on the mound." He said Laffin, another sophomore, is a physical athlete he's expecting will hit well. His coach calls junior Matt Wians "probably the most complete catcher we've ever had" and says he is "physically different" after dedicating himself to an off-season weight lifting regimen. Team leadership should come from Lawler and fellow senior Noah Schrader, a patient hitter who works counts and gets on base."We return many position players and we have a lot of inexperienced pitching," Sarna said. "We'll pick up the ball. We can compete if we throw strikes, and coach (Frank) Simoncelli does a tremendous job with our pitchers of maximizing the abilities of who we have on the mound." Sarna said a team strength will be the willingness to draw walks and advance runners.
Harvest ChristianCoach: Jeffrey Halter (second year, 19-13)
Conference: Northeastern Athletic
2016 record: 19-13, 7-7 NAC
Top returning players: Juniors Dayne Frederick (OF), Drew Lewis (3B/RHP), Dominick Olech (U/RHP), Zach Pawelek (OF), Joey Pepper (U/RHP); Sophomores Jack Nohava (C/IF), Brock Wilken (IF/LHP), Grant Young (IF)
Top newcomers: Juniors Reilly Gebhards (IF/RHP), Zach Floyd (OF), Dylan Lockwood (OF/RHP)
Season outlook: And now for the encore. Harvest Christian Academy left its fans wanting more after its second IHSA season. The Lions won 19 games and the school's first regional title in Class 1A before bowing out with a 3-2 loss to Walther Christian in a sectional semifinal. HCA fans should expect more success. One senior graduated (Chad Jakel). Otherwise, the still-youthful roster returns intact, led by al-area pick Drew Lewis. The third baseman batted .427 with 30 RBI and 24 steals last year. He pitched 49 innings, finishing 5-5 with a 3.00 ERA. Lewis struck out 32 and walked 14 in 49 innings. Sophomore Brock Wilken (5-1) led the Lions in ERA (2.95), struck out 32 and walked 16 in 40.1 innings. Pawelek will likely improve on a 4.72 ERA in 29.1 innings during which he fanned 35 and walked 22. There are tough outs up and down the lineup thanks to the return of juniors Joey Pepper (. 354, 27 RBI), Pawelek (. 355, 13 RBI), Dayne Frederick (. 300, 19 RBI) and Dominick Olech (. 324, 21 RBI) and sophomores Wilken (. 389, 29 RBI), Grant Young (. 306, 12 RBI) and Jack Nohava (. 273, 22 RBI). The aforementioned returnees stole 142 bases combined for the runnin' Lions. Coach Jeffrey Lewis said his team intends to build on last year's success with an older, wiser group. "Pitching will need to be more effective with the new IHSA pitch count," he said. "We pitched from behind in the count with a young staff las season. Defensively, we are stressing a strong mental approach to keep us focused on the task at hand on any given day." HCA's schedule has gotten tougher. In addition to taking part in a Class 1A jamboree in Jacksonville next week and hosting the HCA Invite against 1A powers like runner-up Somonauk and Peru-St. Bede, the Lions will play local teams St. Edward, Streamwood and Larkin.
HuntleyCoach: Andy Jakubowski (12th year at Huntley 235-146-2; 18th year overall 330-271-2)
Conference: Fox Valley
2016 record: 25-15, 9-8 FVC Valley
Top returning players: Seniors Joe Boland (SS/U), Logan DeWulf (RHP), Jeff Heinrich (3B/SS), Noah Konie (LHP/1B), Brad Maurer (2B/U), Brad Model (LHP/OF), Trevor Nemes (RHP), Cole Raines (RHP), Cameron Reed (RHP), Joe Rizzo (C), Denny Smith (1B), Adam Smylie (LHP/1B); Juniors Tylr Koss (C/U), Nick Laxner (RHP), Kyle Morgan (LHP)
Top newcomers: Senior Ethan Sund (RHP), Chris Costantino (RHP/OF), Keegan Garcelon (RHP), Jordan Goldstein (SS/U), Kamrin Hoffman (U/C), Joey Petryniec (OF), Matt Rodriguez (RHP/3B), Grant Yakimisky (RHP/3B), Anthony Zak (2B)
Season outlook: Huntley came on strong late last spring, charging all the way to the Elite Eight before falling to Mundelein. The now-experienced Red Raiders return their top eight pitchers and six position players. That group flexed its muscle over the summer by going 17-7-2 and making a run to the semifinals of the Phil Lawler Summer Classic. Leading the rotation are senior Adam Smylie and junior Nick Laxner. Smylie went 6-5 last season, allowing 19 earned runs in 66.2 innings (1.91 ERA) on 55 hits and 27 walks. He struck out 64. Smylie pitched well in a summer state semifinal loss to Brother Rice at Boomers Stadium. Laxner (6-3, 59.1 IP, 54 H, 18 ER, 13 BB, 59 K, 2.12 ERA) more than proved himself as a sophomore with winning performances in regional and sectional championship games. The right-hander also tossed a 5-hitter against Fremd in a summer-league quarterfinal. The lineup is led by a pair of returning all-area hitters. Third baseman/shortstop Jeff Heinrich (McHenry County College) hit .461 last season. In 102 at-bats he had 10 doubles, 3 triples, drove in 21 runs, stole 23 bases and scored 32 times. Joe Rizzo, a catcher, committed to North Central College, hit .402 in 117 at-bats with 6 doubles, a home run and 36 RBI. It's a combination of pitching, hitting and defense that has veteran coach Andy Jakubowski raring to go. "This team is full of character guys who are unselfish, and the expectation is to go further than the 2016 team," Jakubowski said. "We are going to push ourselves to get one percent better each day and play our best baseball at the end of the season. We are very excited about this team and the possibilities that they can attain."
JacobsCoach: Jamie Murray (6th year, 119-67)
Conference: Fox Valley
2016 record: 22-14 (9-8 FVC Valley)
Top returning players: Seniors Mike Addante (CF), Dylan Cummings (P), Brad Demkovich (LHP), Adam Kale (LF), Ryan McGorian (1B/DH), Ian Oreskovich (3B); Junior Justin Lavrisa (LHP)
Top newcomers: Juniors Austin Asplen (P), Matt Camp (P/U), Cory Dennison (P), Daniel Murray (P/1B), Liam Oreskovich (C), Braeden Wegner (OF/P)
Season outlook: Jacobs baseball has become synonymous with postseason success. The Golden Eagles have won four straight regional titles, largely due to good pitching. Jacobs finished with a team ERA of 2.03 last season. Top pitchers Casey Dennison and Brendan Heiss graduated, but there's more where they came from, led by senior Brad Demkovich. He went 4-1 as a junior with a 2.18 ERA in 54.2 innings. He struck out 29 and walked 17. Coach Jamie Murray said junior Justin Lavisa "has a huge upside" and there are more talented, young pitchers in the pipeline. "We have the deepest group of pitchers that we have ever had and that says a lot considering the class that just graduated," Murray said. "I also want to include some high-potential arms that are going to develop on our lower-level teams with a chance to add to an already deep staff." Offensively, Nebraska-bound leadoff man Mike Addante sets the table. Last year the all-area pick batted .354 (45 for 127) with 11 doubles, 4 triples, 2 home runs and 15 RBI. The speedy center fielder stole 11 bases and scored 30 runs, tied for team honors. Also back is senior Adam Kale. The left fielder batted .299 (29 for 97) with 4 doubles and 18 RBI. Beyond that duo the lineup is mostly untested at the varsity level but the goal remains the same: compete in the highly competitive Fox Valley Conference and pursue a fifth straight regional. Jacobs will prep for both against a tough nonconference schedule that includes Homewood-Flossmoor, Notre Dame and Grant, the team that ended Jacobs' season last year in sectional play. "This is a very talented group that has high expectations for them and for the season," Murray said. "They want to embrace the tradition and put the work in that will allow them to achieve their outcome goals."
Kaneland Coach: Brian Aversa (11th year)
Conference: Northern Illinois Big XII East.
2016 record: 14-14, 9-6
Top returning players: Seniors Jack Marshall (SS/P), Luke Calabrese (3B), Josh Norman (C).
Top newcomers: Seniors Josh Pollastrini (P), Clark Hendricks (P), juniors Robbie Dudzinski (P/1B/DH), Luke Gomes (CF), Jack Douglas (P), Grant Thomas (P).
Season outlook: With the graduation departure of varsity veterans Joe Laudont (Elgin CC), Jake Marczuk (Carthage), Matt O'Sullivan (UW-Whitewater) and Jacob Violett (Judson), the Knights have "big pieces to fill," according to Aversa. "Most of our seniors didn't log a lot of playing time last year," said the coach. Kaneland returns the left side of its infield with Marshall and Calabrese, who figure to occupy spots in the heart of the Knights' batting order. Norman, who has some varsity experience, figures to take over behind the plate and work with a pitching staff that includes Pollastrini, Hendricks, Thomas, Douglas and Dudzinski. "I think we'll hit all right," said Aversa. "It will likely come down to pitching. All eight of our pitchers are about the same right now so we'll have to be careful how we use our guys." Once again, Kaneland will play a rugged schedule that includes Mt. Carmel, Nazareth, Prairie Ridge, Marmion and Burlington Central along with a 4-game spring break trip to O'Fallon against Class 4A schools. "We always have a tough schedule," said Aversa. "I'm not worried about our record - I'm more concerned with how we prepare for the postseason."
LarkinCoach: Matt Esterino (ninth year)
Conference: Upstate Eight (River)
2016 record: 10-24, 5-19 UEC River
Top returning players: Senior Michael Rodriguez (2B/SS); Juniors Gunnar Boley (IF/P), Andy Bonnot (OF), Cy Kerber (C/P/IF), Keonne Mebane (OF), Kobe Mounivong (P/1B), Jackson Reuter (OF/P)
Top newcomers: Seniors Luis Bello (IF/P), Sebastian Garnica (IF/OF); Juniors Aaron Lazovick (SS/P), Max Wiskirchen (P/1B/OF)
Season outlook: Larkin has struggled to break out of the lower tier of the Upstate Eight Conference for years because the Royals have lacked pitching depth. Things change. Year two of a youth movement is underway. Six juniors who gained experience as sophomores return, including outfielder Keonne Mebane. He batted .310 with a home run and 12 RBI. Meanwhile, fellow juniors Cy Kerber (9 RBI), Andy Bonnot (21 runs), Jackson Reuter, Gunnar Boley and Kobe Mounivong (. 296) return with 152 games of combined varsity experience. Mounivong, junior Max Wiskirchen and sophomore Max Anderson give 10th-year coach Matt Esterino three left-handed pitchers at the top of his rotation for the next two seasons. The Royals have other pitchers who gained experience last year like Kerber (1-2), who should improve on a 4.14 ERA in 25.1 innings. "Our team goals this year include improving on last year's record and putting ourselves in position to compete for a regional championship," said Esterino, who lists defense as a team strength. "We will achieve them through fundamentals, moving runners, pounding the strike zone and picking the ball up on a consistent basis."
Marmion Coach: Frank Chapman (2nd year)
Conference: Chicago Catholic League Blue.
2016 record: 11-23 overall, 4-16
Top returning players: Seniors Nick Brummel (P), Zack Lentz (P/1B), Bobby Pierce (IF/OF), Collin Gibson (P/IF), juniors Brandon McPherson (P/OF), Chase Stanke (C).
Top newcomers: Sophomores Eric Lundell (P), Nick Talerico (2B/P), Elias Flowers (CF).
Season outlook: The Cadets learned how difficult things are while playing in the Chicago Catholic League for the first time last season, facing the likes of 3-time defending Class 4A state champion Providence, 2013 state champion Mt. Carmel, St. Rita and Brother Rice, among others. However, it also served as great preparation for the postseason where the Cadets captured their first Class 3A regional title since 2012. "Every day is a battle in our conference," said Chapman. "It is an honor to play against those teams. We don't really focus on our record because we realize that we're playing in one of the toughest conferences in the state. We're looking to improve on a daily basis and put together a 7-game winning streak in May and June (postseason)." Juniors Brandon McPherson (. 350, 20 RBI, 20 R; 3-1, 1.96 ERA) and Chase Stanke head the list of returnees. McPherson hit .395 in conference play as a sophomore last season while Stanke is already committed to attend Arkansas. "Chase added 25 pounds to his frame and is much more physical," said Chapman. Gibson, who pitched in the regional and sectional semifinals last season, figures to complement McPherson as a daunting duo on the mound. Brummel and Lundell bring added depth to the pitching staff while switch-hitter Flowers may bat leadoff and play center field. Marmion will travel to Jacksonville for several games during spring break.
St. Charles East Coach: Len Asquini (14th year)
Conference: Upstate Eight River
2016 record: 23-15, 16-8
Top returning players: Seniors Kyle Tiltges (1B/P), Niko Klebosits (1B/P), Keegan Kochis (P), Joe Sciarrino (CF), Thomas Adams (IF), John Carroll (IF), Justin Galante (OF), Zach Rupp (C), Josh Soderstrom (P), junior John Dellostritto (IF).
Top newcomers: Senior Steve Abruzzo (OF/P), juniors Nico Piaskowy (C), Pat Griffin (OF), Drew Conn (P), Jack Jordan (P/1B).
Season outlook: First, the good news - the Saints captured their first Class 4A regional championship since the 2013 team placed third in the state tournament with a hard-fought, 2-1 victory over Geneva. Now, the down side - the Saints' defense struggled at times last season, evidenced by their 52 unearned runs allowed. "Our unearned runs allowed were way too high," said Asquini, who guided the Saints to the state title in 1999. "After we committed errors, I think our pitchers often tried too hard to make that perfect pitch and instead missed their mark and gave up some big hits." Adams, Carroll and Dellostritto figure prominently into the Saints' starting infield plans. "All of three of them are comfortable at all spots - third base, shortstop and second base," said Asquini. Klebosits and Tiltges figure to rotate at first base and designated hitter as Asquini wants both big bats in the lineup. Tiltges, who will also see time on the mound, led the team with a .402 average and 23 RBI last season. Klebosits (5-4, 2.29 ERA), a left-hander, and right-hander Kochis (2-2, 3.08 ERA) give the Saints a solid 1-2 punch at the top of their rotation. "We really like our depth on the mound," said Asquini of his staff that includes 5 southpaws. Outfield candidates include Sciarrino, Galante, Abruzzo and Griffin. "We had more outfield errors last year than the previous two years combined," said Asquini. "Cleaning up our defense has been a big point of emphasis." The Saints hope to contend in the UEC River where St. Charles North has dominated the past two years. "I believe this is a group that can compete for a conference title and make a deep run in the playoffs," said the coach.
St. Charles North Coach: Todd Genke (13th year)
Conference: Upstate Eight River
2016 record: 33-7, 23-2
Top returning players: Seniors Tyler Mettetal (IF/OF/P), Zach Mettetal (SS), Brenden Norberg (OF), Tim Hasto (P/IF), Anthony Delisi (IF), Sam Faith (3B), Ryan Litavecz (P), Westin Muir (P).
Top newcomers: Seniors Raphael Rhoades (OF), Sean Krueger (C/DH), Connor Bizik (1B/OF), Bennett Christiansen (P), juniors Steve Hamer (OF/P), Sean Nemetz (C), Tommy Nelsen (OF/P).
Season outlook: It was a season filled with firsts for the North Stars, who captured their first sectional and supersectional titles on the way to a third-place Class 4A state finish. The momentum carried into the summer as St. Charles North advanced to the state tournament for the first time in school history. "We called it a glass ceiling that we just couldn't break through until last year," said Genke. "Now we don't have to talk about that elephant in the room. The bar has been raised." While the North Stars won't have graduated standouts Brendan Joyce (. 381, 26 RBI, 40 R, 22 SB) and Jack Lambert (12-2, 1.43 ERA) to lean on, there is plenty of talent returning. Leading that list are the Mettetal brothers - Tyler and Zach - both 4-year varsity starters. Tyler, a left-hander, missed the team's postseason run after undergoing elbow surgery last May. "He is so rejuvenated and excited to be back," Genke said of the South Carolina commit. Zach (. 369, 41 RBI, 23 R), who will attend Memphis, anchors North's infield at shortstop. "After Tyler's injury, we moved Zach up to the 3-hole in our lineup and it worked out well. Norberg hit a team-best .477 this summer while Missouri State recruit Sam Faith also provides punch. The North Stars possess a wealth of pitching talent, led by Tyler Mettetal, Hasto, Litavecz, Muir and Christiansen. "We have a lot of guys who had opportunities to pitch in big-game situations last year," said Genke. Their biggest question marks include finding someone to replace Joyce at the top of the lineup and lack of experience behind the plate and in the outfield. Come tourney time, the North Stars should be a tough out. "As always, our team goals are to win our conference, get at least 20 wins, earn regional, sectional and supersectional titles, and win our first state championship."
St. EdwardCoach: Trent Golz (first year)
Conference: Metro Suburban
2016 record: 5-24
Top returning players: Senior Nolan Theriault (P/C/OF); Juniors Daniel Falco (OF/P), Jake Lesh (2B); Sophomores Michael Lopez (P/SS), Jack Olson (3B/OF/P).
Top newcomers: Juniors Jake Frey (OF), Andrew Johnson (C/2B), Joey Mandarino (IF/P), Dylan Morawski (OF), Ethan Palomino (1B/P/OF); Freshman Jake Middleton (IF/OF)
Season outlook: St. Edward baseball is now under the management of former Streamwood standout and Judson University graduate Trent Golz. He spent five seasons as an assistant coach before taking the job when Tim Dovichi stepped down after last season. Golz, 30, takes over a team short on experience and long on potential. Nolan Theriault is the only senior on the roster. On the mound last season he went 1-1 with a 3.85 ERA in 23.2 innings. The main threat in the batting order comes from junior Matthew Schimbke. As a sophomore he hit .317 (26 for 82) with 5 doubles, a home run and 22 RBI. Juniors Daniel Falco and Jake Lesh and sophomores Michael Lopez and Jack Olson should be better able to contribute offensively after getting their feet wet at the varsity level last year. However, the Green Wave remain a very young team overall with the addition of three more sophomores and freshman Jake Middleton in what shapes up to be a rebuilding year. "We are looking for players to step up and gain experience," Golz said. "We want to prepare ourselves for the playoffs. We want to reduce the amount of mistakes that took us out of ballgames last year and compete for all seven innings. Our goal is to improve every day and to develop our players."
South ElginCoach: Jim Kating (10th year, 190-135-1)
Conference: Upstate Eight (Valley)
2016 record: 19-11, 16-6 UEC Valley
Top returning players: Seniors Kevin Barry (OF), Bryant Diel (OF), Jack Stancl (RHP), Dylan Wells (RHP); Junior Nate Gomez (OF/IF/RHP); Sophomore Patrick Keaty (SS)
Top newcomers: Logan Romasanta (C/RHP)
Season outlook: The Storm intend to rely on their program-signature combination of pitching and defense to again compete in the Upstate Eight Valley. Last year South Elgin registered a 2.47 team ERA and averaged 2 errors per game. Two rotation mainstays return: seniors Jack Stancl and Dylan Wells. Stancl (5-3) finished with a 1.90 ERA in 51.2 innings, struck out 53 and walked 30. Wells (5-3) in 44.1 innings had a 2.68 ERA with 36 strikeouts and 17 walks. Junior Nate Gomez converted all 3 save opportunities and struck out 21 in 17.1 innings. Gomez was the team's second-leading hitter a year ago. As a sophomore he batted .393 (31 for 79) with 8 doubles and 19 RBI. Also back in the lineup are senior outfielders Kevin Barry (. 345, 9 doubles, 3 triples, 12 RBI, 28 runs) and Bryant Diel (. 320, 5 doubles, 7 RBI). Two sophomores are expected to contribute. Patrick Keaty was the starting shortstop as a freshman. He hit .281 (16 for 57), reached base in 35 percent of his plate appearances and committed 8 errors in 59 chances. Fellow sophomore Logan Romasanta is a 6-foot-1 right-handed pitcher who also catches. "We have a nice mix of upperclassmen and younger players, including two sophomores that will hopefully contribute," South Elgin coach Jim Kating said.
StreamwoodCoach: Ryan Lasota (fifth year, 27-108)
Conference: Upstate Eight (River)
2016 record: 9-23, 8-16 UEC River
Top returning players: Seniors Jose Aguilar (SS), Ryan Fitzgerald (IF/C/P), Mike Hart (OF), Jesse Rico (OF), Joe Sheehan (IF); Junior Colin Caminitti (IF/P),
Top newcomers: Juniors Kevin Bauer (P/OF), Jeremy Beeson (1B), Daniel Kuehl (P/IF), Cody Motykowski (OF), Jared Oliver (C/P), Michael Pawlikowski (P/1B), Chris Randel (P/IF/OF), Dominic Robles (C/P)
Season outlook: Streamwood's goal is to improve enough to escape the dreaded postseason play-in game, which forces lower seeds to win three playoff games to win a regional title instead of two. Such improvement will require better defense. The Sabres allowed 225 runs in 2016, but only 154 were earned. The pitching staff surrendered 5.6 earned runs per game last year despite the efforts of right-hander Adam Sojda, the winning pitcher in 6 of the Sabres 9 victories last season. An all-area and all-UEC River selection, Sojda (6-0, 165) posted a 6-4 record and 2.00 ERA in 63 innings, striking out 75 and walking 19. Also back in the rotation is junior Colin Caminitti, who went 3-4 with a 2.80 ERA in 40 innings. Returning offensive leaders include senior shortstop Jose Aguilar (. 321, .441 OBP) and senior infielder/catcher Ryan Fitzgerald (. 349, 9 RBI). At the plate, fifth-year coach Ryan Lasota said he wants his players to forget about stats and concentrate on having quality at-bats. In the field, he wants to see improvement. "Defensively, we should be stronger this season, so hopefully this will minimize some of the lopsided loses we had last season. We have a deeper team this season so we can mix and match more defensively and offensively throughout the course of a game."
West Aurora Coach: John Reeves (10th year)
Conference: Upstate Eight Valley.
2016 record: 12-18, 10-12
Top returning players: Senior Connor Palmby (OF), juniors Jacob Gray (P), J.J. Rivera (SS/P).
Top newcomers: Juniors Cam Zimmerman (C/2B), Alberto Martinez (P/IF), Dustin Tomas (P/DH).
Season outlook: After the graduation loss of All-Area second baseman and team MVP Ryan Becker (. 402, 24 R), Logan Love, Jacob Arsenault and Winn Kipp, the Blackhawks enter the 2017 campaign devoid of many veteran players. "We are very young," said Reeves. "However, I think we have a good group of guys. The sophomores won their level in the UEC Valley last season." That was without the 6-2, 200-pound Rivera, who started at shortstop on the varsity team last spring. "He should be in the top of the batting order at some point," said Reeves, who used Rivera at leadoff this past summer. Palmby is the only other returning starter. The Blackhawks will depend heavily on juniors in other positions as well as on the mound. "I think our rotation is versatile and athletic," said Reeves. "We realize there will be an adjustment period for the juniors but we like the arms that we have." West Aurora proved it could play with some of the area's best teams last season, recording victories over Batavia, Geneva and Glenbard East while climbing near the .500 level in the UEC Valley. "That was the most conference victories (10) we've had since 2005," said Reeves. "It seemed like every game was close - even in our losses. We're pretty excited about the season."
Westminster ChristianCoach: Luke Rojas (first year)
Conference: Northeastern Athletic
2016 record: 16-18
Top returning players: Seniors Tyler Schoemann (1B/P), Luis Aguinaga (OF); Juniors Theron Dorsey (C), Sam Huguley (OF/P), Nathan Martinez (P/IF), Mason Runkel (SS), Matthew Schulenburg (P/OF), JT Stoll (OF)
Top newcomers: Senior Kilian Vasica; Freshmen Peter DeFalco, Anthony Garmani, Ward Sontag
Season outlook: New coach Luke Rojas inherits an experienced roster after only three seniors graduated from a 16-18 team. Leading the way will be seniors Tyler Schoemann and Luis Aguinaga and Burlington Central transfer Kilian Vasica. Schoemann was an all-area honorable mention pick last year after batting .347 (34 for 98) with 5 doubles and 22 RBI. Also back is Matthew Schulenburg. As a sophomore he batted .371 (23 for 89) with 7 doubles, 2 home runs and 21 RBI. Vasica hit .358 for Central last year (29 for 81) with 7 doubles, 2 home runs and 19 RBI. Rojas said Vasica "has fit right in with us and is going to play a big role for us this year offensively." Shortstop Mason Runkel batted .333 last season (30 for 90) with 9 doubles and 19 RBI and Nathan Martinez batted .306 (30 for 98) with 7 doubles, a home run and 29 RBI. Schoemann (4-6) posted a team-low 3.16 ERA in 51 innings while Martinez went 2-3 with a 4.95 ERA in 30.1 innings with 52 strikeout and 22 walks. "We should have a pretty competitive team," Rojas said. "Our team is fueled by a core group of upperclassmen who are going to have to lead the rest of the guys. Our incoming freshmen have been making a ton of improvements and adjustments to get ready for their first experience of high school baseball."