Prep Baseball Report

PBT Illinois Open: Takeaways


Illinois & Wisconsin Scouting Staff

We continued our summer tournament circuit this past weekend with the PBT Illinois Open in Rantoul, Illinois. This event targeted some of the top high school prospects from the state, as well as a couple surrounding states. Read on below to see which players stood out to our scouting staff from the event. 

14U

CANES CENTRAL ILLINOIS 14U FISHER

RHP Brayden Tindall (Morton, 2027)
Possessing a strong and athletic 5-foot-9, 155-pound frame with plenty of room for growth, Brayden Tindall shoved on the mound for Canes Central and helped them defeat Park Ridge 8-0. The righty threw six complete innings not giving up any runs and only allowed one hit while  striking out seven. Mechanically, Tindall rides on his back leg and strides toward the right-handed batter’s box. He’s loose on the mound and changes his timing to throw off the batters. Tindall displays a 3/4 arm slot and fully extends over his left leg. He hit the corners with his fastball which was thrown at 72-75 mph with an 11/5 curveball.

DANVILLE POST 210 14U

SS Chance Quick (Westville 2027)
Displaying a slim and athletic 6-foot-0, 135-pound frame, Quick came to play on both sides of the ball. At the plate, the right-handed batter went 2-for-3 with an RBI and a walk. He hit a ground ball single to right field and a line drive single to left field showing he is able to spread the field. Mechanically, Quick has a wide slightly open stance with a high stride and loose hands. His bat path is smooth making his swing look effortless. In addition, Quick excelled in the field making various plays at shortstop. He fields the ball low to the ground out in front of him and made consistent strong throws over to first base. 

LF AJ Asbury (Covington, 2027)
Displaying an athletic and proportionate 5-foot-9, 155-pound frame, AJ Asbury put on a show for Danville Post in their championship game against Extreme Elite. The right handed batter went 3-for-4 at the plate with two homers and six RBI’s. One of the homers was a grand slam in the top of the seventh inning when Danville was only up by one run to make the score 10-5. Mechanically, Asbury possesses a wide crouching stance with a small leg lift and a quick bat speed.  

EXTREME ELITE SPRINGFIELD

C Jax Czaikowski (Pana, 2028)
Displaying a strong and compact 5-foot-6, 150-pound frame, Czaikowski helped Extreme Elite defeat Canes in their 11-5 victory. Czaikowski went 2-for-3 at the plate with a walk and three RBIs. One of his hits was a line drive double to left field. Mechanically, the right handed batter is calm in the box with a quick level swing. In addition to his offense, Czaikowski was a brick wall behind the plate not allowing any balls behind him. 

PARK RIDGE WARRIORS 14U BLUE MEGER

LF Colin O’Brien (Maine South HS, 2028)
Possessing a 5-foot-6, 120-pound frame with plenty of room for growth, O’Brien helped contribute to the Park Ridge Warriors in their game against Danville Post 210. The right-handed batter went 2-for-3 at the plate with a double to center field scoring two runs as well as a line drive single to center field. Mechanically, O’Brien bats with a tall stance and high hands, and displays a small stride. He has a compact swing, keeping the bat close to his body. 

15U

CANGELOSI SPARKS NORTH - GRAY 2027

RHP Aidan Salvatori (Lyons Township, 2027)
Good showing in relief for Sparks North Gray going three strong innings with six strikeouts, only allowing one hit. Clean and easy action on the mound out of a ¾ arm slot with a fastball that sat 75-77 mph, T78. Paired with a 11/5 curveball in the upper 60’s. Salvatori worked the fastball inside to righties and away to lefties, mixing in the breaking ball in any count to keep hitters off balance.

DUPAGE TRAINING ACADEMY WILDCATS 15U ELITE

OF Ethan Tuftedal (South Elgin, 2027) 
An athletic, 5-foot-8. 185-pound frame, Tuftedal had a great day at the plate this Friday night. The left-handed hitter went 4-for-4 with a trio of singles and a double, also swiping two bags. Tuftedal showed rhythm in the box and attacked pitchers early in counts, hunting fastballs. With a simple swing that gets the hands straight to the ball, Tuftedal is able to drive the ball to all parts of the field and beat the defense with his speed 

EDGE BASEBALL 15U

C Peyton DiMaggio (Verona Area High, 2026)
5-foot-11, 210-pounds. His performance in gameplay was exceptional, going 7-for-7 on the day with a sac fly. In both games he tallied five RBI on the day. Starts his stance open then evens out as the pitcher delivers. He has power and is able to spray across the whole field driving balls to the opposite field and can pull the ball with ease. 

RHP Landon Lassahn  (Verona Area High School, 2026)
Possessing a long lower half and rounded shoulders with an athletic and slim 6-foot-1, 150-pound frame, Lassahn was shoving on the mound for Edge Baseball in their game against the Rhinos. The righty threw four innings giving up four hits and striking out ten. Mechanically, Lassahn is tall on the mound with a high leg kick and strides toward the right-handed batters box. He portrays an over-the-top arm slot and throws his fastball both arm and glove side. His fastball touched 83 and sat 80-82 mph with a sharp 64-65 curveball and diving 75 mph changeup. With plenty of room for growth, Lassahn can be a real threat in the future. 

CF Asher Schoonover (Craig HS, 2027)
Possessing a lanky and athletic 6-foot, 145-pound frame, Schoonover was seeing the ball for Edge Baseball in their win against Top Tier Central. The right handed batter reached every time he was up, going 3-for-3 with four RBIs. One of his hits was a three-run homer to center field. Mechanically, Schoonover has a wide and loose stance with a double tap stride and a quick bat. 

EXTREME ELITE SPRINGFIELD

RHP Austin Rutter (Sacred Heart Griffin HS, 2027)
Displaying an athletic and proportionate 5-foot-9, 150-pound frame, Austin Rutter got the win on the mound for Extreme Elite Springfield. The righty threw six full innings while not giving up a single run and only two hits while striking out nine. Mechanically, Rutter is loose and relaxed on the bump with a small leg lift and rides down the mound with a 3/4 arm slot. Rutter’s fastball was consistently 77-81 mph which touched 83 mph. His diving changeup had hitters off balance being thrown at 64-67 mph as well as a sharp 61-63 curveball. On the other side of the ball, Austin Rutter shows a lot of promise at shortstop in the future. The rising sophomore showcased many tools throughout the tournament. The leadoff hitter for Extreme Elite Springfield, Rutter is able to keep his weight balanced on both fastballs and offspeed pitches and found the barrel multiple times. The left handed hitter features a crouched stance and quick swing that pulls momentum towards the first base line. At short, he presents confidence in his hands with a good sequence of footwork with solid range throughout the position. 

H’TOWN BOMBERS

RHP Tristan Berrens  (Hortonville, 2027)
Displaying a strong 6-foot-2 225-pound frame, Berrens helped the H’Town Bombers defeat the Yard Goats 3-1. Impressively, the right-handed pitcher threw six full innings only allowing one run and only giving up two hits. Berren’s mechanics made him look effortless on the mound. He pitches out of the stretch with his back knee slightly bent and barely lifts his front leg on his long stride. Berrens has a lower 3/4 arm slot and  throws short-armed using mostly his body. His running fastball sat 77-79 mph and topped 81 mph and paired with a 69-70 mph slider. In addition to his performance on the mound, Berrens excelled at the plate as well. The right-handed batter went 1-for-3 with a solo homer to right center. He has a tall stance and a compact swing with his hands close to his body with a double tap stride. Overall, Berrens had an impressive performance. 

CF Jonathon Englebert  (Hortonville, 2027)
Displaying a strong and muscular 5-foot-10, 187-pound frame, Jonathon Englebert was seeing the ball well for the H’Town Bombers. The right-handed batter went 2-for-3 with a three-run homer to center field. Mechanically, Englebert has a wide stance with high hands and a double tap stride and a knob to ball swing keeping the bat close to his body.

HIT MACHINE

RHP Griffin Knight (Cedar Grove-Belgium High, 2027)
Possessing an athletic and slim 6-foot, 160-pound frame, Griffin Knight helped Hit Machine claim victory 5-1 over Oakland Bulldogs 15u. The righty threw six innings only allowing one run and two hits with seven strikeouts. Mechanically, Knight sets up with an open stance and has a long stride toward home plate with a high leg kick and 3/4 arm slot. His fastball was thrown at 74-76 mph with a dropping 60-61 mph curveball. Knight was hitting the corners all day mixing up glove side and arm side on his fastball. 

IL GATORS 2027 WACASER

RHP Sean Plessa  (Rochester HS, 2027)
Displaying a lanky 6-foot-4, 170-pound frame, Plessa was impressive on the mound today for the Illinois Gators. The righty threw the full seven innings giving up no runs and only allowed two hits with nine strikeouts. Mechanically, Plessa is tall on the mound with a slight knee bend and a long stride toward the right-handed batter’s box. He fully extends his arm in his windup while keeping all his weight on his back leg. He throws with a 3/4 arm slot and keeps his mechanics the same for his fastball and slider making it difficult for the batter to pick up. Plessa’s fastball was thrown 78-80 mph, pounding it arm and glove side. His curveball was sharp with a lot of drop to it and had hitter’s off balance all day. 

ILLINOIS BRAVES

Austin Wike (Mahomet-Seymour, 2026) 
A lean, 6-foot-1, 155-pound frame, Wike may have not had his best game on the mound, but he still showed well. The right-handed pitcher had his fastball sitting 79-81 mph with the curveball sitting 69-70 mph. The fastball had a lot of ride and run to it, making it hard for hitters to barrel up. When on, the curveball had a sharp bite to it and was able to freeze hitters. He has more in the tank, boasting a clean fluid motion that was followed by a loose arm.

3B Logan Wade (St. Thomas More, 2027) 
Showed well in front of our staff with two doubles on the day. He has quick hands to and through the baseball. Has a good carry and backspin on every ball he struck. He gets on plane early and is strong throughout his swing. Fielding wise he is clean in the field. Knows how to come get the short hop at third and can make a throw on the run with velocity. He has smooth hands and quick transfer from glove to throwing arm slot. 

LAKESHORE WARRIORS

DH Pete Kooiker (Jenison, 2026) 
A powerful, 6-foot-2, 195-pound frame, Kooiker had a great night at the plate for the Warriors in their victory Saturday night. The right-handed hitter went 3-for-3 with a home run and two singles. Kooiker showcased a simple, but powerful swing. On the home run swing, he stayed through the zone with strong hands able to drive the ball over the left-center fence. Kooiker will look to continue swinging a hot bat for the rest of the summer. 

CF Ethan Byrd (Holland, 2027)
Possessing a strong and athletic proportionate 5-foot-10, 175-pound build, Ethan Byrd helped the Lakeshore Warriors defeat Phenom Illinois 9-0. The right-handed batter went 2-for-3 at the plate with two homers on different sides of the field. Byrd collected four RBI’s in both homers. Mechanically, he has a wide stance with a double tap stride. He displays loose hands at the plate and is quick to turn on the ball. Byrd is easily able to hit the high fast ball as both homers were balls that were placed high in the zone. He also impressed on the mound with a fastball up to 87 mph. 

MIDWEST HALOS NORTH 2027

SS Harrison Kaczor (Nicolet, 2027) 
An athletic, 5-foot-11, 145-pound frame, Kaczor had a strong game Saturday night. The right-handed hitter went 1-for-2 with a hard-line drive single. Set up in a wide stance, Kaczor stayed balanced and was able to keep the barrel in the zone and drive the ball. Where he was really impressive was with his fielding ability at shortstop. Kaczor showed his range and athletic ability, making a variety of plays with ease. Led by fluid footwork that works through the ball, which is followed by a strong and accurate throw. He was able to work through multiple different arm angles and showed soft hands on the receiving and transfer. 

OAKLAND BULLDOGS 15U

RHP Liam McDonald (Ernest W Seaholm, 2027) 
A projectable 6-foot-2, 180-pound athletic frame, McDonald showed well in his start Saturday afternoon. The right-hander ended the game throwing five innings allowing one earned run, two hits, and three walks while striking out six. McDonald’s fastball was sitting 73-75 mph and the curveball was sitting 64-67 mph. On the mound the righty was extremely athletic and loose. McDonald has a fluid motion that is followed by a quick and loose arm. The curveball was spun well and landed constantly for strikes, setting up a firm fastball that froze hitters and led to soft contact. As McDonald continues to grow and fill out his frame, he will be a name to keep an eye on for the 2027 class.

3B Cayden Kowalec (Taipei American, 2026) 
5-foot-8, 175-pound frame, Kowalec had a great Saturday afternoon in the batter's box. The right-handed hitter went 3-for-3 which included two doubles, a single, and a walk. Kowalec showed rhythm and presence in the box, attacking early and getting the pitch he wanted. His hands worked well, staying compact and to the ball, which let his barrel stay longer in the zone. This allowed him to barrel up balls and drive outside pitches to the opposite field, which he did on his second double. Swinging a hot bat Kowalec looks to follow up this performance with many more this weekend. 

3B Cayden Kowalec (Taipei American School, 2026)
Portraying a strong and muscular 5-foot-8 175-pound frame, Cayden Kowalec contributed for the Oakland Bulldogs in their fight against Hit Machine. The right handed batter went 2-for-3 at the plate with a walk. One of Kowalec’s hits was a solo homer to left field while the other was a fly ball to right field, showing he can spread the ball to both sides of the field. Mechanically, Kowalec is tall and loose at the plate having a narrow stance with a long stride and a quick bat. 

RHP Patrick Hughes (Seaholm, 2026)
Hughes was impressive at the plate and on the mound for the Oakland Bulldogs. The right-handed batter reached every time he was up and went 2-for-2 at the plate with a walk, HBP, and an RBI while scoring four runs. Both hits were deep doubles to left field in which Hughes reached with ease. Mechanically, Hughes has a crouched stance with high hands. He turns quickly on the ball with a compact swing keeping the bat close to his body. In addition, Hughes shoved on the mound for the one inning that he pitched. The righty started the game on the bump and was pulled after the first inning so the Bulldogs could save his arm for later in the weekend. In the one inning he pitched, Hughes struck out three batters and only walked one. His fastball was thrown 71-75 mph with a 65-67 mph curveball. 

ON DECK BLACK-PAYNE

RHP Braylen Hands (William Henry Harrison, 2027) 
A projectable 6-foot-0, 160-pound frame, Hands had a quality start on the mound Friday night for the On Deck Black. The right-hander tossed five innings allowing one run, two hits, and six walks while striking out five. While the command wasn’t there early, Hands was able to find it in the later innings, getting a better feel for his two pitches. The fastball was at 77-82 mph while the curveball was at 70-71 mph. Hands fastball generated lots of ride through the zone and was able to collect a multitude of whiffs. The constancy of the curveball is still developing, but the shape is effective when on. The tall righty had quick arm action and was able to work out of a couple of early jams. As Hands continues to develop he is a player to keep an eye on this summer. 

SS Nolan Hodnett (William Henry Harrison, 2027) 
5-foot-9, 140-pound frame, Hodnett showed all his tools in Friday night's game. The right-handed batter went 1-for-3 on the day including a line drive single. Hitting in the two-hole Hodnett stood in a wide spread out stance, followed by a simple quick swing that gets the barrel to the ball. While he may have not had his best game with the bat, where he really impressed was at shortstop. Hodnett put together one of the best defensive performances of the day, showcasing his range, footwork, hands, and arm talent. The rangy defender made a pair of difficult plays look easy, one including a sliding backhand grab followed by a strong throw to 1st. He showed the ability to be quick with his hands and ability to have strong on-target throws from a range of arm slots. The defensive abilities are present and as Hodnett continues to grow he will be a name to watch in the 2027 class. 

RHP Ben Hodgen (William Henry Harrison, 2027) 
A 5-foot-7, 200-pound frame, was dominant in his start this Saturday afternoon. The right-handed pitcher threw one-run ball through the fifth. His fastball sat 77-79 mph while the curveball sat 58-59 mph. The fastball had late life in the zone which the curveball paired well with being able to freeze hitters.

1B Braylen Hands (William Henry Harrison, 2027)
Possessing an athletic and strong 160-pound frame with room for growth, Braylen Hands got the job done for On Deck Black. In the bottom of the seventh with no runners on base while being tied 3-3 with one out, Hands hits a deep shot to left field that left the yard. Mechanically, Hands displays a slightly crouched power stance with compact swing and quick bat speed.

EH Tyler Burns  (Try-County, 2026)
Displaying lanky and athletic 6-foot, 150-pound frame, Tyler Burns helped On Deck defeat Illinois Dynasty in their 4-3 win. The lead-off right handed batter went 2-for-3 on the day while scoring a run. His first hit was a lead-off double to center field in the first inning, and his second hit was a ground ball to shortstop which he beat out due to his quickness out of the box. Mechanically, Burns bats with a slightly open stance and displays a small toe tap. His swing is compact as he keeps his bat close to his body throughout the entire swing. 

PHENOM WHITE

2B Ethan Albertson (Huntley, 2027)
Displaying a strong and muscular 5-foot-9, 180-pound frame, Albertson was impressive today for Phenom White. The right-handed batter went 2-for-3 at the plate with an RBI on the solo homer that he hit to deep left. Mechanically, Albertson keeps his hands high with an open stance and a high leg kick. He drives through the ball with a quick bat speed. In addition to his plate performance, Albertson made plays in the field at second base. He showed tremendous effort in getting to every ball that was hit near him. 

PRESTIGE BASEBALL BARBATO

RHP Kevin Flanagan (St. Laurence, 2027) 
A filled-out, 5-foot-11, 180-pound frame, Flanagan had a good outing on the mound against the USA Prime IL. The right-hander tossed five innings allowing two runs, four hits, and four walks while striking out three. His fastball wasn’t overpowering sitting at 67-71mph, but the sink and tail of the pitch had fooled hitters. Flanagan was able to use this movement to his advantage generating a good amount of soft contact and whiffs. The righty was also able to attack hitters filling up the zone and letting his defense work behind him. 

RHINO K’S 15U KNOX

RHP Carson Frerichs (Normal University, 2027) 
A filled-out, 6-foot-3, 188-pound frame, Frerichs had a strong day on the mound for Rhino K’s Saturday afternoon. The right-hander settled in after a rocky first and tossed five innings allowing five hits, one earned run, and two walks while striking out eight. The fastball was sitting 79-82 mph and had late glove-side run. The curveball sat 68-73 mph and after the first found its shape and consistency. Frerichs was able to dominate the zone, filling it up with both pitches. The curveball acted as a chase pitch coming off of the fastball. The righty had a smooth motion with a snappy arm to finish. Frerichs is set to have a strong rest of summer with this Rhino K’s squad. 

LHP Chase Reinhart (Normal Community West, 2027)
Displaying a strong and athletic 6-foot, 175-pound frame with a long lower half, Chase Reinhart got the win for the Rhinos in their 11-0 victory. The lefty was efficient in the four innings he threw due to the mercy rule. Mechanically, Reinhart was loose on the mound making his delivery look effortless. He displays a long stride and fully extends over his front leg. He has a 3/4 arm slot with the ball coming out of his hand easily. Reinhart’s firm fastball sits 81-84 and tops 85 with some carry up in the zone. He also shows off a 71 mph sharp curveball once in a while, but mostly gets the job done with his effective fastball. 

RHP Graydon Leonard (GCMS HS, 2027)
Possessing a slim 6-foot-2, 165-pound frame with a long lower half, Graydon Leonard dominated on the bump against the Illinois Gators. The righty threw five innings only allowing one run and three hits while striking out five. Mechanically, Leonard is tall on the mound with a medium leg kick and long stride striding toward the right-handed batter’s box. He throws with a 3/4 arm slot. Leonard’s loose mechanics make his pitching look effortless. He displays a 78-80 mph fastball which topped 82, with the ability to hit all the corners in addition to a 65-67 mph curveball. In addition to pitching, Leonard is impressive at the plate too. With loose mechanics that make his swing look effortless, Leonard keeps all his weight on his back leg displaying a long stride and quick hands that drive through the ball.

RHP Parker Roop (University HS, 2027)
Portraying a lean 5-foot-11, 140-pound frame with room for growth, Roop shoved on the mound for K’s Rhinos. The righty threw for 3.1 innings, not giving up any runs and only two hits. Roop is tall on the mound and possesses a medium leg kick with a long stride, finishing with most of his weight over his front foot. He has a low 3/4 arm slot and displays a running 76-78 mph fastball with a sharp 66-69 mph slider. 

TOP TIER CENTRAL NATIONALS

SS Ryder Wilson (Olympia High School, 2027)
Displaying a strong and athletic 5-foot-10, 150-pound frame with room for growth Ryder Wilson contributed to Top Tier’s 8-0 win over Prestige. The right handed batter went 2-for-2 at the plate with a walk and an RBI. One of his hits was a ground rule double hit to deep left field with the other one being a ground ball single to third base that he beat out with his legs. Mechanically, Wilson bats with a wide and crouched slightly open stance with a double tap stride. His hands are loose and gets the barrel to the bat easily. 

USA PRIME IL

RHP/C Mason Watson (East Peoria, 2026) 
A powerful, 5-foot-10, 200-pound built frame, Watson had a good all-around game for the USA Prime IL. The right-hander started the game on the mound where he would toss two and a third innings allowing three earned runs, one hit, four walks, and two strikeouts. The fastball was sitting 75-79 mph and the curveball was at 68 mph. Watson showed well in a fluid motion that is followed by quick and clean arm action. Where Waston stood out was with the bat, as the right-handed hitter went 2-for-2 with a home run, single, and a walk. With a simple powerful swing that keeps the barrel in the zone, Watson was able to drive a deep homerun over the left field wall. He showed a good approach at the plate, attacking early in counts. As the summer moves along Watson will be a name to follow with the bat. Watson in his game against DuPage Training Academy went 2-for-2 having a single and a two run homer. 

RHP Breckin Parker (East Peoria Community, 2027) 
The right-hander showed some upside with a fastball in the 78-79 mph range. His slider moves well with some sharpness off a 10/4 plane, garnering some uncomfortable swings. Loose and easy mover with more in the tank as he continues to develop. 

YARD GOAT BASEBALL

RHP Finn Miller (St Joseph Ogden 2027) 
Possessing a lanky 5-foot-11, 145-pound build with a long lower half and plenty of room for growth, Finn Miller shoved on the mound for the Yard Goats in their game against H’Town Bombers. The righty threw for five innings only allowing two runs with three hits and nine strikeouts. Miller works with a quick tempo and pace on the mound that helps him control the game. He displays a high leg kick and long stride. He throws with a high 3/4 arm slot with full extension. Miller’s fastball is mostly thrown arm side which sits 76-78 mph topping 79 mph and a sharp glove side 69-70 mph curveball.

SS Dalton York (St. Joseph-Ogden, 2027)
Displaying an athletic 5-foot-9, 135-pound build with plenty of room for growth, Dalton York helped the Yard Goats 10-run rule Halos North. The lead-off right handed batter went 3-for-3 at the plate with a double while scoring two runs. York could spread the field with a hit to third base, center field, and right-center. He is quick out of the box with his last hit being a ground ball to third base which he beat out. Mechanically, York has an open stance standing far back in the batter’s box, with a short stride and loose hands. 

RHP Nic Brauer (Mahomet-Seymour, 2027)
Possessing a strong 6-foot-2, 175-pound build with rounded shoulders, Braur was dominant on the bump for the Yard Goats in their victory against Halos North, The righty threw a four inning no hitter, only allowing one walk and striking out three. Mechanically, Braur has a windup on his arm side of the rubber with nobody on base. He has a long stride stepping toward the right-handed batter’s box with a 3/4 arm slot while keeping the ball hidden from the batter’s view

RHP Dalton York (St Joseph-Ogden, 2027) 
An athletic, 5-foot-9, 135-pound frame, York had an all-around game in the Yard Goats semi-final win Monday morning. The right-hander tossed five and two-thirds innings striking out eight and walking one. He was effective on the mound commanding his two pitches for strikes and getting ahead in counts. York’s fastball was sitting 74-78 mph early in the game, showing late movement in the zone. The curveball was sitting 67-68 mph, still developing but able to be used as a change of pace pitch. With the bat York was able to help himself reach base three times, including two singles. The righty showed a simple contact-driven swing, driving the ball up the middle. 

Johnny Timmons (Central HS, 2027)
Portraying a strong, athletic, and proportionate 5-foot-10, 160-pound frame, Timmons contributed to Yard Goat’s 7-2 win over the Illinois Gators. Timmons reached base every time he was at bat by going 3-for-3 with three RBIs and a run scored. All three hits for Timmons were to left field, two of which were doubles. Mechanically, the right-handed batter has a small stride and compact swing keeping the bat close to his body. He turns on the ball quickly which allows him to pull the ball to left field. 

16U

CANES CENTRAL ILLINOIS 16U MALONE

CF Gabriel Perez (Illinois Valley Central, 2026) 
Perez has continued to show well throughout the entire weekend. He stands in a strong and athletic 5-foot-9, 175-pound frame. A right-handed hitter, Perez showed a gap-to-gap approach with a slightly uphill path, and in Sunday’s afternoon game, he tallied two doubles. In his first at-bat he legged out a double on a ground ball up the middle, and later doubled on a ball to the deep right-center gap. He’s an athletic mover in the outfield, too, with a quality arm to pair. Perez is a name-to-follow in Illinois’ 2026 class.

RHP RJ Duncheon (East Peoria, 2026)
Uncommitted. Threw four shutout innings on the mound in his outing on Friday afternoon. Duncheon stands in an intriguing 6-foot-1, 185-pound frame with strength throughout. He works a stretch-only delivery with a quick arm out front, working his fastball up to 87 mph, but sitting mostly low-to-mid 80s throughout the outing, producing spin rates up to 2400 rpm. He frequently turned to a mid-70s curveball with 11/5 shape and created multiple swings-and-miss in and out of the zone. A name-to-know in the state’s 2026 class.

RHP Kaeden Schatsiek (East Peoria, 2026)
Uncommitted. Gave a brief, upside look on Friday night, throwing two innings in relief. Ranked No. 99 in Illinois’ 2026 class, Schatsiek stands in a strong and athletic 6-foot-3, 195-pound frame. He showed clean actions on the mound with a loose, quick arm out of a ¾ slot, running his fastball up to 89 mph and sitting 85-88 mph with slight arm-side run. He threw a hard curveball at 77-80 mph with late, sharp bite, showing 11/5 shape and producing multiple swing-and-misses. Schatisek is a must-know uncommitted arm heading into his junior year.

RHP Shane Correll (Dee-Mack, 2025)
Uncommitted. It was a quality first look at the 6-foot-1, 210-pound, Correll. He displayed a simple, stretch-only delivery with a compact arm action out of a low ¾ slot. His fastball sat 79-82 mph, and topped out at 83 mph multiple times. He mixed in a gradual breaking ball with 11/5 shape at 69-71 mph.

CANGELOSI SPARKS NORTH - RED 2026

C Evan Mendiola (York, 2026)
Mendiola showed well as a backstop with natural instincts and confident movements behind the plate. Offensively, the right-handed hitter showed a calm presence in the box, going 1-for-3 Friday. In setup, Mendiola stands a little wider than shoulder width, with his hands around his chest. In stride, he uses a leg kick as a timing mechanism, with his hands loading with the movement. The rising junior showed a projectable 6-foot-1, 176-pound frame.

3B Jalen Gonzalez (St. Patrick, 2026)
Gonzalez had himself a nice Sunday that featured a 3-for-4, three RBI day with a hard hit double into the left field gap against Illinois Premier West. The 5-foot-9 160 pound RHH third baseman features a quiet, slightly bent stance with quick hand speed into a two handed finish that helped generate some pop into the ball. 

LHP Marco Morrone (Lyons Township, 2026)
Marco Morrone had himself a loud outing in relief on Sunday, going three innings with six strikeouts and no earned runs. The 5-foot-10 175-pound southpaw features a mid 70s fastball that topped at 76 with a nice sink and a mid 60s slider that worked inside and out to both handedness of hitters. He also used a curveball and changeup but not as much as the FB/SL combo. A confident player, it was clear that Morrone has the mind of a pitcher, as his four pitch mix was used throughout the at bat no matter the count. His effectiveness silenced the hitters to only one hit in his three innings of work. 

CANGELOSI SPARKS NORTH -WHITE

RHP Kingsley Evans (Whitney Young, 2026)
Evans showed well on the mound Friday, pitching 5.2 innings in relief, allowing no runs with five strikeouts. Standing an athletic 6-foot-1, 160 pounds, the right-handed pitcher has plenty of room for strength gains. Throwing from a 3/4 arm slot, Evans showed a fastball that sat 77-80 and topped at 81 mph, additionally flashing a breaking ball in the low 70s. 

OF Nathan Barnitz (Schaumburg, 2026)
Barnitz presents an athletic 5-foot-11, 157-pound frame that is paired with a smooth left-handed swing. He doesn't look to do too much and has an all-field approach, looking to let his hands do the work. The outfielder has an athletic setup and utilizes a simple toe tap to get into a position to hit with a slightly uphill swing path.  

1B Bryce Tencza (Providence Catholic, 2026)
A lineman on the gridiron, Tencza stands an imposing 6-foot-3, 273 pounds, and moves extremely well for his size. The right-handed hitter is strong, and that strength allows him to mishit balls while still driving them a long way, with a good example of this being his standup triple during his Friday game against the Rawlings Tigers, which hit off the right field fence. The right-handed hitter stands upright at the plate with a slightly open stance. In stride, Tencza utilizes a simple trigger with a selective aggressive approach at the plate. 

MIF Lonnie Roberts (Lyons, 2026)
Roberts showed good actions at the plate Friday with a quality bat from the left side (switch-hitter). Roberts has an aggressive approach and looks to create offense in the later part of the order. He stands a little wider than shoulder width, with a slightly open stance and an uphill swing path. Advanced defender on the infield with soft hands and fluid footwork. 

RHP Owyn Edwards (Oak Park-River Forest, 2026)
A 6-foot-3, 170-pounds right-handed pitcher gave Sparks North White a strong performance in their win Saturday afternoon. After allowing three runs in the first inning, Edwards went on to only allow just one hit in his following five innings. Edwards went six total innings with three earned runs on one hit, three walks and struck out three. Attacked the opposing hitters with a four seam type fastball coming in at 78-81 mph. Backing off the fastball, an 11/5 curveball sitting 60-61 and a changeup in the low 70s.

CC BASEBALL ACADEMY

RHP Reed Sooley (Libertyville, 2026)
Sooley emerged as an arm-to-follow in Illinois’ 2026 class. He displayed an athletic delivery down the mound with a long and loose arm path. His fastball sat 79-83 mph with mostly straight actions, and he turned to a curveball that sat 71-74 mph with 11/5 shape.

LHP Ian Maddux (Libertyville, 2026)
5-foot-11, 150-pounds, lean and wiry with plenty of room to add strength. Loose and easy mover with a clean arm, high ¾ slot. Fastball worked around 75-78 mph with natural arm-side life at times. Breaking ball has out-pitch potential, flashing sharp 1/7, downer action in the low-70s. An arm to keep tabs on moving forward with upside. 

OF Lincoln Sernel (St. Viator 2026) 
Sernel is a High follow after showing well this weekend. Sernel put together complete at bats with an advanced line drive approach. Sernal showed a strong handed swing with a level bat path through the zone. 

CENTRAL ILLINOIS ELITE

RHP Brock Foster (Mt. Zion, 2026)
Foster would close out the game Friday against Outlaws 16U, earning the save for his ballclub. The right-handed pitcher showed a deceptive arm action with a fastball that sat 78-80 mph and was paired with a mid-60s breaking ball. Foster's profile should only improve as his mechanics become more refined. 

RHP Max Flack (Effingham, 2026)
Flack had a quality day Friday, pitching three innings with six strikeouts while showcasing a three-pitch arsenal. Coming from a 3/4 arm slot, the right-handed pitcher showed a fastball in the 76-79 mph range, topping out at 80 mph. Flack would additionally flash a high-60s curveball and a low-70s changeup. 

RHP Myles Hammond (Shelbyville, 2025) 
Standing at, 5-foot-9, 140-pounds, Hammond had a dominant performance on the mound Sunday afternoon against the Sparks. The right-handed pitcher tossed six innings allowing three earned runs, nine hits, and two walks while striking out five. Hammond commanded the zone well, attacking hitters and getting into favorable counts. He was able to generate whiffs, but also let his defense work for him, not afraid to throw in the zone. The righty had a fluid motion that was followed by a quick whippy arm that put life on the ball out of the hand. His fastball was sitting 77-81 mph while the curveball was sitting 66-68mph. The fastball had glove-side run and paired well with his curveball. The curveball was heavily used during the entirety of his outing being able to freeze hitters and create off-balanced swings. 

OF Parker Moore (Pana Illinois, 2026) 
A strong, 5-foot-10, 155-pound athletic frame, Moore showed well in his game Sunday afternoon against the Sparks. The right-handed hitter went 2-for-2 with a pair of singles and walks. He showed patience at the plate working counts until he found a ball he could drive. In the box, he sets up in a wide stance that is followed by quick powerful hips and strong hands that stay compact. Moore showed well running, showing explosiveness out of the box running a 4.71 around first. 

CHICAGO RAKE 16U

C Ryan Cisneroz (Notre Dame College Prep, 2026)
5-foot-11, 180-pounds. Advanced defender behind the plate, strong hands work to present pitches around the zone, active and willing blocker, moves well laterally in the crouch. Arm plays with easy life to second, flicking the ball with accuracy to a 2.10 in between innings. Loose, upside right-handed swing that has more power to come with more physicality. 

EXTREME ELITE 16U SPRINGFIELD

C Maxx Grieme (Taylorville, 2026) 
Grieme had an impressive all-around day. He stands in a strong, 5-foot-9, 184-pound frame with athleticism throughout. Grieme, a right-handed hitter, delivered a two-strike, no-doubt home run over the left field wall, displaying a simple and direct path that works slightly uphill through the zone. He’s a fluid and loose mover behind the dish, showing quality receiving actions and a strong arm on throws down to second (1.95 pop time.) Ranked No. 44 in Illinois’ 2026 class, Grieme is a must-follow prospect.

RHP Drew Ward (Sacred Heart Griffin, 2026) 
Ward stands in an intriguing frame at 6-foot, 170-pounds with athleticism and projection still to come. He gave an upside look on the mound, showing a loose, athletic delivery with a long, clean arm action, producing fastball’s in the upper-70s to lower-80s, touching 83 mph once. Ward also showed a curveball with sharp 11/5 actions at times, sitting in the low-70s. In the box, the right-handed hitter showed his ability as an all-round hitter. Leading off a game with a bunt single where he flew down the line beating the throw with ease. Ward would then in the same game barreled a ball over the left field fence for a home run. The swing is a simple balanced attack that is made with quick strong hands that drive through baseball. He also showed rhythm and approach at the plate working counts and fighting until he got the pitch he could drive. With these performances on both sides of the field, Ward is a name-to-follow in the state’s 2026 class. 

RHP Ajay Runkel (Rochester, 2026)
Runkel earned the start on the mound and tossed four shutout innings. On the mound, Runkel showed an easy delivery with minimal effort and a long, loose arm action with some quickness out front. His fastball sat mostly 77-81 mph, and touched 82 mph early, and he also mixed in a slider at 65-67 mph with short, horizontal actions. A name-to-follow in the 2026 class.

RHP Colton Gatton (Taylorville, 2026) 
Standing at a 5-foot-8, 175-pound frame, Gatton showed well in his start Sunday afternoon against the Illinois Braves. The right-handed pitcher worked quickly and effectively, getting on hitters and pulling the count in his favor early. His fastball was sitting 81-83 mph and the curveball was at 74 mph. The fastball was used heavily in the early innings, with sink and tail that had hitters missing the barrel. It wasn’t until the later innings that the curveball became a factor, being able to freeze hitters and get off-timing swings. Mechanically Gatton had a clean fluid motion which was followed by quick and clean arm action. 

RHP Max Yenchko (Lutheran HS, 2026)
Yenchko showed well with plenty of upside with room to grow. At 5-foot-9, 147-pounds, Yenchko slings it from a ¾ arm slot, hiding the ball well. Yenchko is an efficient mover down the mound moving quick and direct. He  mixed a three pitch mix with a FB sitting at 74-76 with heavy cut. Yenchko paired an upper 60s SL with tight spin which tunneled well along with a CH at 70-71 mph with fade and feel for the zone. 

EXTREME ELITE MIDWEST

RHP Tyson Filyaw (O’Fallon , 2026)
Uncommitted. Filyaw stands in an intriguing frame at 6-foot-1, 188-pounds with seemingly more still to come. In a three-inning complete game, he struck out nine, walked one and allowed one hit, earning the win on the mound. It’s a simple delivery that works in-line down the mound, and he pairs it with a clean arm action with acceleration out front, working out of a ¾ slot. His fastball sat 84-86 mph with arm-side run at times, and he showed feel to throw a low-70s curveball with 11/5 action. An uncommitted name-to-know heading into his junior year.

OF Gabe Hart (Marion HS 2026)
Hart impressed over the weekend with quality defensive actions and an above-average run tool in the OF. Hart was on the barrel often, utilizing a quick handed swing which was short and compact to all fields. Hart also has advanced feel on the base paths.

MIF Nolan Keller (Triad 2026)
A long levered SS standing at 6-foot-2, 165-pounds. Keller is loose and imposing, filling up the box with a confident approach to all fields. Keller has a strong handed swing that is slightly uphill creating bat speed with power to the gaps. Keller showed advanced defensive actions up the middle of the field with feel for the position. 

RHP Chase Zurliene (Mater Dei HS 2026)
Zueliene showed plenty of upside on the mound, At 6-foot-2, 185-pounds, the RHP showed well on the mound. Zurliene has a slow paced start to a quick twitch delivery with a strong vertical back side. Zurliene showed a heavy FB with plenty of ASR that played at 78-82 mph out of a clean quick arm path. He also showed a feel for a high spin BB at 70-71 mph which tunneled well throughout. 

FRANKFORT SQUARE RAPTORS 2026

RHP Drew Benthine (Tinley Park, 2026)
Benthine would get the start on Saturday, pitching four innings of quality baseball, striking out five, and earning the complete game shutout. The right-handed pitcher showed repeatable actions on the mound, coming from a 3/4s arm slot. His fastball would sit in the 77-80 mph range and was paired with an upper-60s-low-70s slider. 

C Devin Arbour (Kanakee, 2026)
Arbour would have an impressive game Saturday against Central Illinois Elite, going 1-for-2 with a home run and four RBIs. The right-handed hitter presents an open stance with a simple trigger, looking to drive the ball with a slightly uphill swing path.

ILLINOIS BRAVES

INF Madden Schurvinske (N/A, 2026)
Schurvinske showed a quality offensive profile. In setup, the right-handed hitter stands upright, with a slightly open stance and relaxed hands. Schurvinske has an aggressive approach and looks to drive the ball at every opportunity. 

1B Brayden Elam (ACHS, 2026)
In setup, he stands straight with his bat resting on his shoulders. In stride, Elam utilizes a simple trigger with the hands, making a smooth transition to get into a good position to hit. The rising junior has plenty of room for growth with a 6-foot-1, 160-pound frame. Elam was all over the barrel this weekend.

ILLINOIS PREMIER WEST-LOCO

RHP Alex Arens (Glenbard North, 2026)
The RHP throws from a sidearm slot with a quick windup. His fastball sat 78-80 mph and touched 82 with some arm side sink that elicited many uncomfortable swings when worked inside to right handed hitters. His secondary offerings showed much promise as well, with the standout pitch being a slider in the mid 60s that had hitters flailing from both sides of the plate. At 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds, Arens shows an ideal frame for a pitcher with room to still grow. 

NEW BERLIN PUMAS

OF Elijah Gammage (New Berlin West, 2026)
Gammage showed a lot of his potential throughout the weekend. At 6-foot-1 175 pounds, his frame pairs with his athleticism well for what people look for in an outfielder with still room to grow. Out of the box he has long strides that help him get down the line quickly, and those strides also help him cover a lot of ground out in center as well. At the plate, the right-handed hitter presents a slightly crouched stance with a short stride and quick hands that help get the barrel to the ball quickly. On Saturday blasted a two RBI double off the wall on a ball on the inside part of the plate. He is currently ranked No. 50 in Wisconsin’s 2026 class.

ON DECK

RHP Gus Sandberg (Central Catholic, 2026) 
5-foot-11, 215-pound frame. The right-hander tossed four innings allowing two runs, three hits, and one walk while striking out seven. His fastball sat 72-73 mph and the curveball sat 63-67 mph. While the fastball wasn’t blowing hitters away, it paired well with an effective curveball. Sandberg relied heavily on the curveball, using it early in counts, and having the ability to locate it in the zone. With a good 11-5 shape, it spun well being able to generate a handful of whiffs. Sandberg with a clean delivery followed by smooth arm action, is set to have a solid summer with On Deck. 

OUTLAWS 16U BLACK

RHP/MIF Andrew Dawson (Tremont 2026)
Andrew Dawson is a high follow 2026 MIF from Tremont. Offensively, Dawson is a strong handed RHH who has a polished approach through the middle of the field. Dawson showed clean actions up the middle at SS as well taking hits away. He also provided an intriguing look on the mound, working his fastball up to 87 mph while cruising in the mid-80s. To pair off the fastball he went to a slider around 76-78 mph, thrown with intent and with sharp 10/4 shape. 

C Sammy Heer (Morton 2026)
Heer is a physical 2026 to follow at 5-foot-10, 190-pounds. Heer has an advanced gap to gap approach at the plate generating quality bat speed. Heer has a strong compact hand path and was on the barrel multiple times over the weekend. 

RHP Jerek Quinn (Peoria RIchwoods 2026)
Quinn has a fluid delivery and is an efficient mover directly down the mound, A tall and fall delivery in line with a quick clean arm path. Quinn’s FB played at 78-82 mph throughout with heavy ASR and carry. Quinn also added a tight high spin SL that he went to often along with a slower 12/6 BB to keep hitters off balance. 

OF Andy Ballard (Morton 2026) 
Andy Ballard is an imposing LHH who stands at a well proportioned 5-foot-11, 175-pound frame. Ballard has a flat bat path with strong direct hands keeping the barrel in the zone a long time creating bat speed. Ballard was on the barrel throughout the weekend to all fields while showing off an above-average run tool with advanced feel on the bases. 

OUTLAWS BASEBALL 16U ROYAL

OF Haydon Hawksworth (Washington, 2026)
Listed at 6-foot, 160 pounds, Hawksworth presents an athletic profile, with there still being plenty of room for physical development and toolset refinement. The right-handed hitter showed a balanced setup with a smooth leg kick trigger, and a slightly uphill bat path. 

OF Landon Gray (Dunlap, 2026)
Gray showed an intriguing profile this past weekend. The right-handed hitter stands at 6-foot, 165 pounds, presenting a shoulder width stance that is slightly open with loose hands. Gray moved well in the outfield, showing rangy actions throughout the weekend. 

RAWLINGS TIGERS CENTRAL IL

RHP Nick Brauhn (Sussex Hamilton, 2025) Only threw two innings but struck out four. He was Long and loose arm action allowing him to top out at 83 mph for his fastball. Had an athletic delivery and long stride out off the rubber. He was able to command his CB and SL. This allowed him to keep hitters off balance and guessing. He was able to hit corners on his FB as well.

C AJ Chavera (McHenry, 2025) He had an impressive day finishing 3-for-3 with two singles and a double two RBI’s. He stands in a stocky build and has room for added strength. His hands being short to the ball allows him to be quick to any pitch. 

C/3B Colin Quinn (St. Rita, 2026) He had an impressive game today finishing 3-for-4 with a triple and two singles. He has a big build at 5-foot-10, 180-pounds. He has power and hits gap to gap. He has a fluid load allowing his hands to get back to gain power forward. He also is able to bring his hands in quickly allowing him to turn on the inside pitch. In the field he did well and has an arm. Had a ball down the line behind the bag and was able to gun out the runner to first.

TEAM OX WOOD

RHP Lucas Holly (Dee-Mack, 2025)
Holly would throw a complete game Friday, pitching seven innings of quality baseball while only allowing one earned run with eight strikeouts. The right-hander presents a strong and projectable 6-foot-1, 175-pound frame, with clean, explosive movements, throwing from a 3/4 arm slot and bouncing off the mound. Holly would show a fastball that sat 78-79 mph and was paired with a slider  in the 67-72 mph range. He maintained velocity throughout the outing and showcased feel for the zone with his pitches. 

TOP TIER WEST 2026

SS Kamrin Jenkins (Oswego, 2026) 
An athletic, 6-foot, 168-pound frame, Jenkins showed extremely well this weekend with the bat and in the field. On Monday the right-handed hitter collected a handful of hits, consistently finding barrels. Jenkins showed maturity in the box, getting into a rhythm with zone discipline. Jenkins has strong quick hands that keep the barrel in the zone creating hard contact that drives the ball to all parts of the field. Jenkins also swiped a pair of bags, showing his explosive and athletic ability. At shortstop, Jenkins is a natural making every play with ease. He has feel at the position with a good mental clock, not rushing through plays and making simple mistakes. Jenkins also displayed his range paired with quick soft hands when receiving and transferring the ball. Jenkins is an all-around player who is mature and confident both in the box and in the field. He will be an uncommitted name to follow in the 2026 class. 

LHP Emerson Miller (St. Charles North, 2026) 
There was a lot to like about Miller over the weekend. Projectable frame, 5-foot-11, 150-pounds with plenty of room to grow. Loose mover with more in the tank, worked his fastball around 79-82 mph. Has a quick pick move and deceptive move to 1B as well to keep runners at bay. 

RHP Camden Rujawitz (Minooka, 2026) 
A strong, 5-foot-11, 170-pound frame, Rujawitz showed well on the mound in Top Tier West’s semi-final win on Monday. The right-hander tossed three innings allowing three earned runs, four hits, and two walks while striking out two. Rujawitz had his fastball sitting 78-82 mph and curveball sitting 69-71 mph. The fastball had late ride, getting up on hitters and pairing well with an 11/5 curveball that was able to freeze hitters and generate soft contact. Mechanically Rujawitz had a quick fluid motion with clean arm action that was easily repeatable. 

OF Mason Atkins (West Aurora, 2026) 
An athletic, 6-foot-3, 187-pound frame, Atkins showed well with the bat Monday with Top Tier West. The right-handed hitter collected a pair of knocks, including a solid line drive double into the left-center gap. Atkins stood tall with his feet close together and then would stride out getting wide while keeping his timing on point. His quick hands stayed compact and to the ball, allowing for hard contact to the pull side. 

RHP Jason Phillips (Plano, 2026) 
A powerful, 6-foot-2, 240-pound frame, Phillips showed well on the mound in Top Tier West’s championship game Monday. The right-handed thrower was athletic on the mound with a quick and fluid motion. He threw from a low ¾ arm slot with loose quick arm action. His fastball was sitting 82-84 mph, topping out at 86 mph and his slider was sitting 72-73 mph. Phillips relied heavily on his fastball which had late glove-side run. He stayed confident on the mound and was able to work out of trouble early in the game. Also a right-handed hitter, Phillips swings a heavy barrel with intent; simple and easy operation, extremely quick and strong hands through the zone, is able to see spin and control his body well. 

17U

5 STAR WISCONSIN 17U - SQUEEZE

OF Jaxon Prill (West High, 2025)
A lean, athletic, 5-foot-11, 160-pounds left-handed hitting outfielder was slotted in the leadoff spot Saturday. Went 1-for-2 on the day with a five pitch walk in the first inning and a double off an 0-0 fastball to left field and later came around to score. Set up in a wide, balanced position, active hands and uses a high leg lift to begin a compact and direct swing to the baseball which allows hits to spray the ball to all fields. 

RHP Trevor DeBriyn (Menasha, 2025)
The 5-foot-7, 150-pound right-handed pitcher went the distance on a 60-percent strike-rate and didn’t allow a hit until the seventh inning, striking out six. Got first pitch strikes often with a late arm-side running fastball that sat 78-80 mph. The go-to secondary was a slider playing with 10/4 movement at 67-69 mph. A third offspeed was the changeup at 68-72 mph.

CANES CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2025 - Bolen

C Lawson Alwan (Peoria Notre Dame, 2025) 
Alwan showed well in Friday’s nightcap, standing in a strong, 5-foot-10, 189-pound frame. He started the game off with a barrel off the left-center wall for a stand-up double. He showed defensively, too, with quality receiving actions and a strong arm on throws down to second base. In his early Sunday morning game, Alwan continued to get good looks, going 2-for-3 with two singles. The lefty had rhythm and approach in the box. This was followed by a quick and direct swing that kept the barrel in the zone. His hands work well staying to the ball, helping him catch barrels and drive the ball. Alwan had a strong weekend and was a big factor in the success seen by the Canes squad. 

SS/RHP Lane Wheelwright (Farmington, 2025)
Wheelwright showcased an intriguing two-way profile this weekend. As a position player, the shortstop showed smooth, rangy actions and moved well. At the plate, the right-handed hitter stands straight before launching into stride, presenting an aggressive approach from the leadoff spot. On the mound, the right-handed pitcher showcased an 80-83 mph fastball paired with a mid-70s slider. Standing at 6-foot-1, 180 pounds, Wheelwright is an uncommitted name to watch in the 2025 class. 

OF/RHP Cam Ahart (Peoria Heights, 2025)
An athletic, 6-foot-4, 195-pound built frame, Ahart showed well at the plate this weekend. The right-handed hitter collected a double and no-doubt grand slam along with other strong plate appearances. The righty showcased his power and ability to find barrels through strong hands that get through the ball. In the box, Ahart has a good approach and rhythm working pitches until he gets one he can drive. On the mound, the right-handed pitcher would throw a 7-inning complete game for the Monday championship game, showing an upper 70s fastball that topped at 80 and was paired with a low-70s changeup. Ahart didn't show overpowering stuff but didn't walk anybody the whole outing and trusted his defense. 

LHP Jack Mitchell (Morton, 2025) 
A filled-out, 6-foot-1, 180-pound frame, Mitchell had a quality start in the Canes Central Illinois Sunday morning game. The left-hander tossed four innings allowing two earned runs, three hits, and four walks while striking out five. The fastball was sitting at 76-78 mph while the slider was sitting at 73 mph. The lefty showed clean arm action and relied heavily on the fastball. The fastball had slight run and sink action, being able to fool hitters and generate soft contact. Mitchell had good command throughout his start and went on the attack getting ahead in counts, putting hitters in uncomfortable situations. 

LHP Gavin Walder (Peoria Christian, 2025)
Walder would pitch well on Monday in the 17U semifinal, pitching five innings of quality baseball, only allowing one run and striking out seven. The left-handed pitcher showed a fastball in the upper 70s and was paired with a 63-64 mph breaking ball. Walder moved well on the mound and should only improve as he adds more strength to his 6-foot, 165-pound frame.

1B Miles Hoops (Canton, 2025)
Hoops was a hit machine in the 17U Championship game, going 4-for-4 with a double and two RBIs. The right-handed hitter showed a simple approach at the plate and executed well out of the cleanup spot. Hoops has a 6-foot, 170-pound frame and has a lot of room to physically develop. 

CANGELOSI SPARKS 16U WHITE

OF Michael Arroyo (Plainfield Central, 2026)
Arroyo sat at the bottom of the Sparks lineup Friday but acted as an offensive catalyst for the squad. The outfielder would go 2-for-2 with a double and a home run, producing six RBIs. Arroyo showed a simple offensive approach, not looking to do too much in any of his at-bats. The rising junior presents an athletic 5-foot-11, 170 pounds. 

C Sam Webb (Providence, 2026)  
A powerful, 6-foot-2, 170-pound built frame, Webb had an outstanding Sunday morning at the plate. Standing in the right-hander batting box Webb went 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles and a home run. The righty sets up with his feet close together and strides out into a wide stance, able to keep his timing and drive the ball. Strong quick hands follow next that keep the barrel in the zone, with a string finish. Webb consistently found barrels and drove balls to the pull side. He had a presence and calm manner in the box, attacking early and getting on pitches he could drive. Behind the plate, Webb was athletic and had a feel for working in multiple stances. 

CANGELOSI SPARKS NORTH - RED 2025

RHP Logan Komperda (N/A, 2025)
Komperda had a strong showing on the mound Saturday, pitching a seven-inning complete game in which he allowed no earned runs and struck out seven. The right-handed pitcher showed a lanky frame and pitched from a low 3/4s arm slot with a fastball that was an upper 70s (T80) fastball.

RHP Nathan Cera (Maine South, 2026)
6-foot, 150-pounds. Gave our staff an intriguing look on the mound on Sunday evening. Long levers, moves athletically down the mound with a clean arm and whippy ¾ release. Cruised with his fastball around 78-79 mph, playing with some running action to his arm-side. The separator in his arsenal appears to be his slider, which he can land for strikes and to put hitters away with up to 2600 rpm, 72-73 mph.  

CENTRAL ILLINOIS FORCE

LHP/1B/OF Mason Tyron (Morrisonville, 2026)
Tyron would pitch a complete game on Saturday, throwing seven innings of quality baseball, only allowing one run and strikeouting nine with no walks. The left-handed pitcher pounded the zone (71.4% strike percentage), showcasing a three pitch mix which included an upper-70s fastball, 68-70 mph slider, and 62-63 mph curveball. Standing at 6-foot, 175 pounds, the rising junior pitched from a 3/4 arm slot with repeatable actions. Tyron impressed offensively as well over the weekend. Tyron is an imposing LHH with a confident approach in the box and feel for the game. Tyron has a fluid swing compact with a quick hand path using all fields with bat speed. 

RHP Drew Gilpin (Lincolnwood, 2025)
Gilpin would have a notable day on the mound Sunday, pitching five innings of quality shutout baseball and striking out six. The right-handed pitcher presents a 6-foot, 160 pound frame with plenty of room for physical development. Coming from a 3/4 arm slot, his fastball sat 78-81 mph. Gilpin's game on the mound should only improve as he matures both physically and mechanically. 

C Evan Kessler (Auburn, 2025)
6-foot-1, 185-pound frame with an aggressive approach in the box. Kessler was on the barrel from gap to gap all weekend going 3-for-4 on day one of gameplay. Kessler produces with a minimal load to a handsy uphill path. 

CENTRAL ILLINOIS REVOLUTION 17U

RHP Toby Cooper (Illini Bluffs, 2025)
Long-levered frame with plenty of room to grow. Cooper cruised with his fastball in the upper-70s, reaching 80 mph a couple times. He also showed some feel to spin a curveball around 68-71 mph with 11/5 shape. High-upside arm. 

CHICAGO FASTBALL

OF Constantine Coines (Maine South, 2025)
Coines showed an athletic profile this weekend, with speed that played well on the bases and in center field. Defensively, the rising senior showed rangy actions, running down flyballs that most couldn't. At the plate, the right-handed hitter has an athletic setup with a simple trigger. A 5-foot-11, 180-pound frame, the Maine South student-athlete is an uncommitted name to know. 

Sebastian Piton (Plainfield North, 2025)
Piton presents a strong 6-foot-2, 250 pound frame with a controlled aggressive approach at the plate. The right-handed hitter stands in an athletic position with a slightly open stance and a easy leg kick. Piton's pure strength is his calling card and should be something to follow. 

3B Joshua Barnet (JB Conant, 2025)
The cleanup for Chicago Fastball had a strong day Saturday against the GRB Rays, going 2-for-2 with a double and a home run. An offensive catalyst, the right-handed hitter presents a strong 6-foot, 210 pound frame with strength throughout his swing. 

RHP Connor Kehoe (Conant, 2025)
Kehoe showed well on the mound Saturday, showing a fastball that sat 78-81 mph and was paired with a 67-69 mph curveball. The right-handed pitcher showed explosive actions on the mound and repeated it well from a high 3/4s arm slot. An athletic 5-foot-9, 142 pounds, the rising senior still has a lot of room for strength gains, which would compliment his present toolset. 

DANE COUNTY BEARS

LHP Clayton Stenjem (Cambridge, 2025)
The southpaw had a dominant showing Saturday evening, notching the win against a tough lineup with a final line of seven innings pitched, six hits, one earned run, one walk and three strikeouts. It’s a loose and easy delivery with more to come as he continues to fill out physically. Loose and easy arm path, creates a fastball from a ¾ slot that plays around 77-79 mph, natural run/sink to his arm-side. Also mixed in a sweeping slider at 70-71 mph, thrown to the back foot of righties and for some strikes. 

OF Evan Bindl (Verona, 2025)
As the Dane County Bears entered bracket play, Bindl would step up in a big way, going 2-for-2 with a home run and 3 RBIs. The right-handed hitter stands upright with a bat tilt, a simple trigger, and an uphill swing path. 6-foot, 190 pound frame.

OF Rowan Bonifas (Verona, 2025)
Bonifas presents a strong 6-foot-2, 205-pound frame. That strength would play in bracket play Saturday as the right-handed hitter would go 2-for-2 with a home run and 2 RBIs. A name to follow in the rising senior class. 

EDGE BASEBALL 17U

LHP Max Zuehlke (Madison West, 2025)
Zuehlke would pitch well Sunday, throwing six shutout innings and striking out 11, with present stuff being obvious. The left-handed pitcher showed a fastball that sat in the 81-84 mph range and was paired with a mid-70s breaking ball. The rising senior attacked the zone and showed command for both pitches. With a 6-foot-3, 208-pound frame, Zuehlke is a must-know uncommitted name in the 2025 class. 

3B Seth Myers (Edgewood, 2025)
Myers showed a promising profile this weekend, as the corner infielder showed physical potential and a solid left-handed swing. At the plate, Myers gets wide with an easy leg kick while also showing strong bat control. The corner infielder has plenty of strength within his 6-foot, 212 pound frame. Confident defender, trusts his hands and times hops well. 

FLOOD CITY MIDWEST 2025/26

CF Mason Marshall (Glenwood, 2025) stands in an intriguing frame with strength and athleticism throughout at 5-foot-10, 168-pounds. He impressed at the plate, showing a fluid and loose right-handed swing, barreling a triple to the right-center gap in his first at-bat, and following with a single up the middle. Ranked No. 217, Marshall is an uncommitted follow in the Illinois 2025 class.

RHP Dylan Huff (Glenwood, 2026)
The 6-foot-2, 163-pound right-hander provided an upside look in his outing on Sunday morning. Ranked No. 48 in Illinois, Huff showed an easy and athletic delivery down the mound with a long, loose and clean arm path. His fastball sat 86-87 mph in the first inning, but he settled at 84-86 mph, touching 87 occasionally, and producing arm-side run on the pitch at times. He turned to a sharp slider often that sat 74-76 mph with quality spin (T2500), creating multiple swing-and-misses with the pitch. He’s an uncommitted arm-to-know heading into his junior year.

2B Luke Saxe (Pittsfield, 2025)
The switch hitter Saxe would have the tying RBI single in a tight game with Edge Baseball (hitting left) with two outs in the top of the seventh. From the left-side of the plate, Saxe showed a calm presence in the box with simple actions at the plate, sinking into his back leg and utilizing an easy trigger.

MIF Hayden Gratton (Pittsfield 2026) 
Hayden Gratton has an athletic wiry frame with room to add strength, standing at 5-foot-10. 160-pounds. Gratton showed a polished right handed swing with a gap to gap approach. Gratton got his quick compact swing off in all counts in a controlled manner. Gratton showed well with a double to the LCF gap as well as a home run over the scoreboard.

CIF Jorey Myren (Rochester 2026)
Myren has an imposing presence in the box standing at a physical 5-foot-10, 235-pounds. The switch hitter has advanced bat speed from both sides of the plate generating natural power to all fields. Myren was loud to all parts with a pair of doubles in game play. 

RHP Brock Runyon (Routt 2025)
Runyon was dominant on the mound for Flood City this weekend. Runyon toed the rubber standing at 6-foot-1, 175-pounds. Runyon has a fluid path down the mound. He moves quickly and in-line with a tall and fall delivery to go with a quick arm. Runyon showed a FB that held at 81-84 mph throughout his four inning stretch, pairing up a low 70’s BB with tight spin keeping hitters off balance. Runyon finished his day with 4IP 3H 4R 0ER 2BB and 12K. 

GRB RAYS WHITE

1B/C Jonathan Hartline (Pecatonica, 2024)
Hartline showed fluid actions at the plate while presenting an intriguing 6-foot-1, 175-pound frame. The right-handed hitter showed an aggressive approach from a wider base with an uphill swing path. Uncommitted 2024. 

3B Carson Jesberger (Stoughton, 2025)
Jesberger had an impressive weekend, with good actions defensively and a line-drive approach at the plate. Standing at 5-foot-11, 230-pounds, Jesberger moves well for his size, showing athletic movements at the hot corner. At the plate, the right-handed hitter showed a line-drive approach with an athletic, slightly open stance and good rhythm at the plate with obvious strength. 

RHP Joel Robertson (Arrowhead, 2025)
Robertson would make a brief appearance on the mound Saturday and showed a low-80s fastball.  Standing at 6-foot-2, 165 pounds, there is plenty of upside to dream of with Robertson's profile on the mound. 

RHP Reed Knecht (Spencer, 2025)
Knecht would show a promising profile on the mound, throwing an upper-70s-low-80s fastball from a low 3/4s arm slot while also flashing a slider that sat in the 68-73 mph range. Standing at 6-foot, 170 pounds, the maturing of Knecht's physical and mechanical game will pay major dividends.

MATTOON HIT-MEN

RHP Madden Johnson (Mattoon, 2025)
Currently ranked No. 144 in the state. On Saturday, the right-handed pitcher would throw five innings of quality baseball, allowing one earned run with eight strikeouts while showing a quality three-pitch mix, which included an 82-85 mph fastball, a 73-75 mph slider, and a 75-76 mph changeup. Johnson showed competitive actions on the mound with a do-it-all attitude for his squad. The rising senior presents an athletic 6-foot, 154-pound frame and has plenty of room for added strength. 

NAPERVILLE RENEGADES

RHP Luke Wildes (Benet Academy, 2025)
6-foot-2, 190-pounds. The right-hander worked his fastball in the 85-86 mph range to pair with a slider in the mid-70s. Attacked the zone with both offerings. Simple operation with an athletic finish, works in-line and delivers his arsenal from a ¾ slot.  

OF Luke Stevenson (Batavia High School, 2025) 
6-foot-4, 188-pounds. Impressed in front of our staff during gameplay while going 2-for-3 with a triple and a double. Strong, powerful swing from the right-side, quick hands, utilizes his lower-half. 

SLUGGERS BASEBALL 2025

RHP Nolan Witkowksi (Verona Area High School 2025)
Witoswki is a 6-foot-2, 185-pound right-hander who was intriguing over the weekend. Witkowski showed a upper 70’s FB with heavy ASR and sink, paired with a tight high spin slider at 71-73 mph that tunneled well. Witkowski was  fluid and athletic down the mound, direct path with a clean quick arm. 

TOP TIER WEST 2025

3B Isaac Black (DeKalb High School, 2025)
Quality defender at third, clean actions with a steady glove and strong arm. Strong right-handed swing, sending a ball over the wall for a two-run home run. 

RHP Kyle Prebil (Sycamore High School, 2025) 
6-foot-2, 210-pounds, present strength throughout with round shoulders. Simple delivery with a medium balance point, works in-line down the mound, repeats well with controlled intent. Fastball worked up to 89 mph, cruising around 84-87 mph with finish through the zone. Flashed a sharp curveball at 72-75 mph. 

RHP Emerson Cowham (Penn (IN), 2025) 
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 203 in the state of Indiana. 6-foot-2, 190-pounds, lean and projectable frame. Gave an upside look out of the ’pen for Tier, working his fastball in the 84-85 mph range to pair with a sharp slider at 74-78 mph. Missed occasionally to his glove-side with both offerings but gained control as he went. Loose and easy mover with more to come. 

RHP Brodie Farrell (DeKalb, 2025) 
6-foot-1, 199-pounds, some present strength throughout. Impressed early on with a jumping fastball out of his hand, playing at 85-88 mph with life and finish through the zone. Went to a curveball at 74-76 mph, flashed sharp action and depth. Powerful delivery, gets into his legs down the mound and works in-line. 

RHP Gavin Rosengren (Batavia, 2025)
Rosengren showed an intriguing profile on the mound this past weekend, with a fastball that sat in the upper 80s and was paired with a mid-70s slider. The rising senior stands at 6-foot-1, 205 pounds, and is an uncommitted name to know. 

3B/RHP Maddux Clarence (DeKalb, 2025)
Elgin CC Commit. Showed an intriguing profile as both a catcher and on the mound. Mature actions behind the plate with an above-average arm. Standing a strong 5-foot-10, 190 pounds, the right-handed hitter showed confidence at the plate throughout the weekend. On the mound, the right-handed pitcher showed a fastball that sat in the 79-83 mph range. Also, flashed a changeup and slider. 

SS Nik Nelson (DeKalb, 2025)
Nelson showed quality throughout the weekend with a pretty left-handed swing coming from a compact 5-foot-6, 141-pound frame. At the plate, Nelson presented a line drive approach, using an aggressive toe tap to get into a position to hit. Defensively, the shortstop showed athletic actions and movements. Overall, an intriguing profile is Nelson’s game. 

YARD GOAT BASEBALL

RHP Brayden Elliott (GCMS, 2025)
Elliot presents a strong 6-foot-1, 190-pound frame. On Sunday, the right-handed pitcher threw 4.2 innings with seven strikeouts. Elliot's fastball sat in the 81-84 mph range and was paired with a breaking ball in the low-70s. Definitely, an uncommitted name to know in the 2025 Class. 

OF Matthew Swartz (Monticello, 2025)
A left-handed hitter, Swartz has an unorthodox setup at the plate, but it works for him through a patient, controlled approach. The outfielder stands as an athletic 5-foot-11, 170-pounds, and is a name to know in Illinois' Class of 2025. 

OF Gavin Bailey (Mahomet-Seymour, 2025)
Bailey showed a pretty left-handed swing and an ability to find the barrel this past weekend. The outfielder stays athletic at the plate and uses a leg kick as a timing mechanism, showing line-drive tendencies throughout the weekend. An athletic 6-foot-1, 175 pounds, there is plenty of room for added strength and physical maturing. An uncommitted name to know in Illinois' Class of 2025.

RHP Soogyeom Park (Central, 2025)
Park is an imposing figure on the baseball field, standing at 6-foot-6, 210 pounds. The right-handed pitcher showed good actions Saturday, pitching three innings in which he only allowed one earned run while striking out six. Park showed deceptive actions that kept batters off balance with an easy fastball that sat in the 84-87 mph range. The fastball had an intriguing movement profile with a good sink, pairing well with a diving slider in the 74-75 mph range. Park is a must-know name in the Class of 2025. 

RHP Chase Harrison (Oakwood, 2025)
Harrison would get the start Friday and showed quality actions on the mound. The right-handed pitcher comes from a deceptive low-3/4s arm slot with a fastball in the low-80s and a slider in the 67-68 mph range. Thanks to the deception in Harrison's delivery and the movement profiles on his pitches, the rising senior was able to induce various empty swings.

RHP Miles Woolsey (Mahomet-Seymour, 2025)
6-foot-1, 160-pounds. Woolsey would close out the game Friday for his Yard Goats squad, pounding the zone and keeping the opposing Sparks lineup quiet. The right-handed pitcher threw from a 3/4 arm slot with a fastball in the 83-86 mph range while also flashing an upper-60s slider. 

Related Content