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PBT Illinois Open: Takeaways

June 26, 2024
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 

CANGELOSI SPARKS GREENFIELD

SS Mikey Menza (Hinsdale, 2028) emerged as a follow in the state’s incoming freshman class. The left-handed hitter barreled a ball down the right field line for a standup triple. He showed athletic actions on the infield, too, moving well to both sides and displaying a strong and accurate arm on throws across the diamond. 

EVANSVILLE LEATHERNECKS 14U MCDONALD

RHP Parker Magill (North Posey, 2028)
Magill would pitch in relief Saturday, throwing five innings of quality baseball while allowing no earned runs to close the game. The right-handed pitcher filled up the strike zone and competed well on the mound. His fastball sat 67-71 mph and was paired with a 61-64 mph curveball.

OF Gavin Root (RCHS, 2027)
Root was the number three hitter for Leathernecks 14U and hit .500 on the weekend. Standing at a projectable 6-foot, 150 pounds, the outfielder sets up in a wider base with his hands near his head. In trigger, the right-handed uses his hands to get to a position of loft with an uphill swing path. 

Morrow’s Yard

RHP Gaige Howard (Hagerstown, 2028)
Howard would go all the way Friday, pitching a seven inning shutout against Moco Tribe in only 89 pitches, with 59 being strikes. The right-handed pitcher did an excellent job filling up the zone and inducing weak contact. Howard's fastball sat in the 64-67 mph range, topping out at 68 mph, while also mixing in a mid-50s breaking ball.   

OF Jaxon Hale (Hagerstown, 2028)
Hale was a hit machine this weekend, hitting over .500 throughout the tournament.  The left-handed hitter showed limited swing-and-miss in his game, with a contact-based approach and barrel control. Hale also showed range in center field for Morrow's Yard and should be a name to follow as the rising freshman enters high school this fall.

RHP Kaden Hall (Hagerstown, 2028)
Hall showcased a strong 6-foot, 175-pound frame Saturday as the right-handed pitcher moved well on the mound, displaying a fastball that sat 76-79 mph and topped at 80 mph. Hitting-wise, Hall impressed at the plate going 3-for-3 in the Semi Final on Sunday with two home runs and five RBIs to lead Morrow’s Yard to the championship game. He displayed power and strong bat-to-ball skills and will be a definite name to follow in Indiana’s freshman class.

C Graham Vinson (Hagerstown, 2028)
Vinson had a two-home run game Saturday and had a .400 BA throughout the weekend. Standing at 5-foot-8, 147 pounds, the right-handed hitter showed an athletic setup at the plate, looking to drive the ball with his above-average strength. Defensively, the catcher also showed smooth actions and hands, paired with confidence in his above-average arm. Should be a name to follow as he physically matures.

RHP Johnny Wilt (Northeastern Elementary, 2028)
Wilt showed some arm talent Saturday, going 1.2 innings while only allowing one hit. The right-handed pitcher showcased a fastball that sat in the 77-79 mph range. An athletic 5-foot-9, 165 pounds, the rising freshman will be a name to keep an eye on as he physically and mechanically matures. 

Norridge Rebels

C Antonio Ciccone (Ridgewood Comm, 2028)
A defensive presence behind the plate, Ciccone showed confidence in his arm and kept the running game in check with multiple runners caught-stealing and various back-pick attempts across the weekend. He additionally showed athleticism and communication skills as a backstop. On Friday, Ciccone would go 1-for-4 against Top Tier Springfield with a swing that would heavily utilize his athletic 5-foot-11, 160-pound frame. The defensive skillset of Ciccone should be something to follow moving forward.

TOP TIER SPRINGFIELD

RHP Ryan Binegar (Athen Sr, 2028)
Binegar presented well on the mound Saturday, standing a strong 5-foot-11, 165 pounds. The right-handed pitcher generated easy velocity with a fastball that parked in the 74-78 mph range. A rising freshman, Binegar is a name to keep an eye on. 

WOW FACTOR ILLINOIS 2028 SCOUT 

3B/ RHP Brady Jones (Metamora, 2028)
Jones, coming in at a physical and developed 6-foot-4, 180-pound frame, was a definite name to follow from this weekend. The left-handed hitter provided a huge spark for WOW Factor in the championship game, going 3-for-3 at the plate with a pull-side and a back-side home run to total for five RBIs on the day, scoring three times himself. He also demonstrated range on the infield making several impressive plays over the weekend. Mechanically, Jones showcased a medium leg kick with quick hands, bat speed, and a level bat path. Jones also showed well on the bump going four strong innings to help pitch WOW Factor to a 12-2 victory in the semi-final. His fastball ranged from 78-80 mph and was able to hold velocity into his fourth and final inning of work. His curveball was 69-70 mph and produced several mis-hits throughout the game. Jones will be a freshman name to follow with his two-way talents.

SS Ryder Rennette (Dunlap, 2028)
Rennette showed quality actions all weekend with an athletic frame that played well on both sides of the ball. At the plate, the left-handed hitter has an athletic setup and looks to drive the ball from gap to gap, with a patient approach. Defensively, the shortstop showed smooth and rangy actions. On the mound, Rennette showcased repeatability with his delivery and produced whiffs all game with his three pitch mix. He worked quickly on the bump, keeping hitters off balance and producing weak contact. His fastball ranged from 78-81 mph and was consistently placed all around the zone. His curveball had 11/5 movement and sat 65-68 mph, while his changeup was 71-73 mph and gave left-handed hitters a hard time. The two-way rising freshman should be an athlete to keep an eye on. 

OF Sage Lelm (N/A, 2028)
The outfielder showcased a strong, athletic frame, with a developed lower half, moving well throughout the weekend. Lelm was finding barrels consistently, which included a grand slam Friday and another two-run home run in the Semi Final game on Sunday. His impressive performance helped provide the offensive start to lead WOW Factor to the championship game. He finished the championship game going 2-for-3 with an RBI double to help be one of the offensive leaders in WOW Factor’s 10-0 championship victory.  The right-handed hitter displayed an aggressive approach, looking to drive the ball and generate high exit velocity. An overall impressive weekend from the right-handed outfielder.

RHP Wes Thompson (N/A, 2028)
Thompson would close out the no-hitter for Wow Factor Saturday, showing arm talent in a short outing. The right-handed pitcher showed athleticism on the mound, coming from a 3/4 arm slot, with a fastball that sat in the 79-81 mph range. Thompson should be a name to follow as his pitching matures in high school.

RHP Dean Marchard (Dunlap, 2028)
Marchard started the no-hitter for Wow Factor on Saturday, showing a fastball that sat in the 71-74 mph range and topped out at 75. The right-hander would show above-average pitchability, mixing in a breaking ball that was in the upper-50s. Holistically, Marchard had an impressive day, filling up the zone and getting quality outs. 

15U 

Canes Illinois 15U-Frazee

RHP Cooper Burnside (Dunlap, 2027)
Portraying an athletic and proportionate 5-foot-9, 155-pound frame, Cooper Burnside was dominant for Canes in their game against Razorbacks Navy. He threw 5.2 innings striking out five, and only allowing one walk. Mechanically, the righty displayed a slight bend in his back knee, fully extending his arm on the way back while keeping the ball hidden from the batter’s view. He also displayed a 3/4 arm slot and landed with his foot pointing towards the right handed batter’s box. Burnside possessed a fastball that topped 81 mph and mostly sat 77-79 mph which was thrown both arm and glove side, with a sharp slurve that sat 66-68 mph.

RHP Keegan Schol (Illinois Valley Central, 2027)
Showed an athletic 5-foot-10 145 pound frame on the mound Saturday for Canes Illinois Frazee. Schol threw 4.2 innings, striking out nine batters while walking three and only allowing one hit. His fastball sat 79-82 mph, T83 with late life which he paired with a sharp slider at 72-76 mph . Mechanically, Schol threw out of a high ¾ arm slot with a loose arm and worked quick on the mound to keep hitters out of rhythm.

Canes Indiana 15U-Laird

CF Luke Roeder (Roncalli, 2027)
Displaying a slim and athletic 6-foot-1, 165-pound frame with broad shoulders, Roeder helped lead the way to victory for Canes Indiana in their 7-4 win over the Illinois Lightning. The right handed lead-off batter went 2-for-3 at the plate with a walk, two runs and an RBI. Roeder’s RBI came from a solo homer to right-center. Besides the homer, Roeder hit a double to deep right field. Mechanically, he has a tall and loose stance with a long stride. His swing is compact with slight lift. It is safe to say Roeder was seeing the ball well against the Lightning. Roeder was also dominant on the mound for the Canes Sunday afternoon. The lefty tossed 5.1 innings with seven strikeouts, allowing five hits and two walks. Roeder pauses at the top of his motion, which is followed by a quick, loose arm. His fastball was sitting 75-80 mph with a curveball sitting 61-65 mph. Roeder worked out of early trouble in the first inning and proceeded to find himself and put together an impressive outing. He had command of all pitches, filling the zone up and creating soft contact. His fastball had late life that got up on hitters creating a handful of swings and misses. 

RHP Carson Graber (Barr Reeve, 2027)
The 5-foot-8, 140-pound right-handed pitcher had a strong outing against GRB Stiks Grey. Graber was not overpowering on the mound but was able to dominate the zone and generate soft-contact outs. His fastball was sitting 67-69 mph with a curveball sitting 58-60 mph. Graber trusted his field and let them make plays while he filled up the zone. 

Canes Indiana 15U-Vaught

RHP/3B Nick Richey (Eastern Greene High School, 2027)
Slim and athletic 6-foot, 140-pound frame with a lengthy lower half, sloped shoulders and plenty of room for growth. Richey was lights out on the mound for Canes Indiana against Mud Dog Baseball. While giving up three hits and two walks in 3.1 innings, Richey helped Canes take down the Mud Dogs 8-6. Mechanically, the righty threw out of the wind up with a high leg kick when there were no runners on base, and had a good mix of side step and leg kick out of the stretch when there were runners on base. Richey worked quickly on the mound and portrayed a long stride with a 3/4 arm slot. His running fastball topped 80 mph and was sitting 76-79 mph with a sharp 66 mph slider. With plenty of room for growth, he is a pitcher to look out for in the future. Richey also impressed with the bat on Saturday. The right-handed hitter ended the game with two singles, a double and a walk. Richey showed a quality approach at the plate, working counts and fighting in two-strike counts. It is a long swing that is still quick and able to generate power when on time. At third base, Richey showed his range and athleticism making a handful of plays. He showed a strong arm able to throw from multiple angles. 

Duneland Flyers-Hackett 15U

RHP Destin Billings (Washington Township Valparaiso, 2027)
Portraying a strong, proportionate 5-foot-10, 155 pound frame with rounded shoulders, Destin Billings was impressive on the mound for the Duneland Flyers against Top Tier Navy. The righty threw 2.1 innings while giving up one walk, zero hits, and striking out four. Mechanically, Billings is sidearmed, has a small leg lift while leaning into his back hip with a long stride and full extension. Billings possesses a humming fastball with horizontal movement, which touched 86 mph and sat 82-85 mph. He also displays a sharp 68-70 mph slider which he consistently throws for strikes. Billings followed this impressive outing with another one on Sunday. He went six innings giving up zero runs on three hits and one walk, while striking out nine. Billings was in complete control of the game attacking hitters and getting ahead early. He showcased repeatability on the mound and the ability to generate whiffs with both pitches. His velocities sat the same for both pitches and stayed consistent for the entire outing. The right-hander is a must-watch name in the 2027 class.

3B Anthony Rochford  (Chesterton, 2027)
Displaying a strong full 5-foot-7, 170-pound frame, Anthony Rochford helped the Flyers get the win against Top Tier Navy. At the plate, the right handed batter went 2-for-2 with two RBIs while scoring two runs. Rochford launched the ball over the fence in right center for a two-run homer in his first appearance. His second appearance ended up being a deep fly ball double pulled to left field. Mechanically, Rochford has a loose and relaxed stance in a slight crouch. He has a long stride with a quick bat speed and slight lift on the bat. 

RHP Jacob Hazel (Michigan City, 2027)
6-foot, 160-pound frame, Hazel had a dominant outing in the Flyers semi-final game this Monday. The right-hander tossed a complete game shutout giving up six hits, no walks, and collecting five strikeouts. Hazel sat 77-80 mph with his fastball and 66-70 mph with his curveball. The fastball had late movement and paired well with a curveball that had bite and feel in the zone. Hazel had excellent feel and command for both pitches, able to get ahead early in counts and miss barrels. He had a repeatable motion with a quick snapping arm. Hazel is a right-hander to watch as he contours to develop this summer. 

EDGE BASEBALL 15U

C Peyton DiMaggio (Verona, 2026)
Displaying a full and strong 5-foot-11 210-pound frame, Peyton DiMaggio contributed to Edge Baseball in their 11-2 win over the Mud Dogs. Batting cleanup, the right handed batter went 2-for-3 at the plate with a ground ball RBI single to center field and a fly ball RBI double to left field which hit the fence on a bounce. Mechanically at the plate, his body is tall and loose with loose hands. His swing is compact with a medium leg kick and looks effortless. As seen in today’s game, DiMaggio has some pop in his bat. 

RHP Landon Lassahn (Verona Area, 2026) 
Tall, projectable 6-foot-1, 150-pound frame. The right-handed pitcher was sitting 76-80 mph with the fastball and 65-66 mph with the curveball. Lassahn went four innings with a handful of strikeouts. He spun the ball well in the zone able to get whiffs. Both pitches generated soft contact but found holes. Lassahn still had excellent command and was able to get batters out. 

GRB Stiks Teal 15U

RHP Max Nemoir (New Berlin Eisenhower, 2027)
Wiry 5-foot-11, 160-pound frame, threw a complete game shutout in GRB’s 8-0 win Friday morning. Over the six innings of work he collected six strikeouts; four swinging and two looking, and only allowed a walk and one hit. Deploying a three pitch mix, he showed a ¾ arm slot, long arm swing, upright finish, and a tilted upper half. Fastball sat from 75-77 mph with late life, topping at 78; backed by a 1/7 curveball, sitting from 69-70 mph, that was willingly thrown as a get me over pitch early in counts, and an occasional changeup sitting from 71-72 mph. An overall dominant performance from the uncommitted right hander.

OF/RHP Cooper Haas  (Brookfield East, 2027)
Lean 5-foot-11, 165-pound frame, had a productive day at the plate, going 3-for-4 with two RBIs in GRB’s 8-0 win Friday morning. Out of the three spot in the order, he demonstrated a gap to gap approach with the ability to hit to all fields, lining a single to center field in the first, pull side RBI single in the third, and opposite field RBI single in the fifth. Utilizing a medium leg kick, short load, flat bat path, and quick hands, he showed the ability to hit pitches with authority that weren’t in the strike zone, changing lower body positioning when needed late in counts. A quality set of plate appearances for the uncommitted right handed bat. Haas also showed out in the semi-final game on the mound tossing five innings with two strikeouts, allowing one run, two hits, and two walks. Haas attacked hitters with a fastball sitting 77-80 mph and a curveball sitting 67-68 mph. The fastball had arm side run and paired well with the curveball. Haas is an all-around player that is set to be a name to watch. 

RHP Brady Potier Brown (Marquette, 2027)
5-foot-10, 165-pound frame. Brown showed out in his outing against White Sox Elite. The right-handed pitcher tossed four innings with five strikeouts, allowing one run. His fastball sat 74-79 mph with a curveball sitting 64-66 mph and a slider at 65-67 mph. The fastball was firm with late life, the slider had a sharp gyro shape, and the curveball acted as a change-of-pace pitch. Brown displayed a fluid motion and quick arm, and was able to attack and confuse hitters. 

RHP Jack Boerst (AHS, 2027) 
A filled-out 5-foot-10, 165-pound frame, Boerst collected the save against the White Sox Elite. The right-handed pitcher generated easy velocity with a fluid motion and clean arm action. His fastball sat 78-82 mph with a curveball sitting 72-75 mph. He got ahead in counts and was able to command both pitches in the zone. 

GRB STIKS White

RHP Sean Lemke (Homestead, 2027)
Lemke pitched in relief Friday, going 1.1 innings with no runs, no hits, no walks, and two strikeouts. Lemke pounded the outer half of the plate, showing command of a 77-81 mph fastball and flashing a BB. A developed 5-foot-11, 195 pounds, Lemke controlled his body well, getting good extension on the mound.

Illinois Lightning-15u Hubert

1B Nikita Aleksintsev (Libertyville, 2027)
Possessing a strong and athletic proportionate 5-foot-10, 166-pound frame, Nikita Aleksintev helped keep it close for the Illinois Lightning in their game against Canes Indiana. The right-handed batter went 2-for-3 at the plate with a run and an RBI. Aleksintev could spread the field, hitting a ground ball single past shortstop and a ground ball single past second base. Mechanically, Aleksintev has high hands at the plate and is tall with an open stance. He has quick hands with bat speed as he drives through the ball. 

RHP Shanjit Srinivasan (Stevenson, 2027)
Srinivasan, displaying a 5-foot-7, 145-pound frame, had an impressive outing on the bump for Illinois Lightning on Sunday. He employed a two pitch mix that kept hitters off-balance all game with a fastball at 74-77 mph. He also displayed a 12/6 curveball that had sharp break at 66-69 mph. His curveball produced swings and misses throughout the game and proved to be a valuable out pitch. He finished the day with 6.2 innings pitched, only allowing one hit, one run, and earning himself eight strikeouts on the day. An overall impressive day on the mound for the right-handed pitcher.

Mud Dogs

SS Nick Honkisz (St. Rita, 2027)
Displaying a slim and athletic 5-foot-9, 135-pound frame with plenty of room for growth, Honkisz’s bat contributed for the Mud Dogs in their game against Canes Indiana. The right-handed batter scored a run and also went 1-for-3 at the plate with a deep double and an RBI. Mechanically, the right handed batter sets up in a crouch with loose hands, strides with a toe tap, and has a compact swing with a quick turn. 

Razorbacks 

RHP Cole Thompson (Henderson, 2027) 
Displaying a slim and athletic 5-foot-11, 145-pound frame with plenty of room for growth, Thompson received the win for the Razorbacks against Canes central. Impressively, the righty threw five innings while giving up no runs and only one hit while striking out six. Mechanically, Thompson possesses a small leg kick and keeps the ball hidden in his windup. He is loose on the mound and provides full extension with his arm out of a lower 3/4 arm slot. Thompson possesses a running fastball that topped 78 mph and sat 75-77 mph with a sharp 64-66 mph slider. Thompson kept his control and stamina throughout all five innings, making it a successful day on the mound. 

LHP/OF AJ Baggett (Evansville North, 2027)
An athletic, 5-foot-11, 131-pound projectable frame, had a dominant weekend in Rantoul. Showcasing a simple, but powerful swing that is straight to the ball. Baggett collected over eight hits on the weekend, which included a three home run day on Saturday. Baggett didn’t stop there as he took the mound twice on Saturday in two relief appearances. His fastball was sitting 78-81 mph, with a curveball sitting 63-68 mph. Between the two outings, he had a total of four innings striking out nine total. In his second appearance, he came in with the bases loaded with no one out and proceeded to strike out the side. The lefty displayed a loose and quick arm, working with pace attacking hitters with both pitches. His fastball has a life out of the hand and the curveball paired well, showing the ability to freeze hitters and create bad swings. Baggett is a name to watch this summer on both sides of the ball. 

Rhino Baseball Fierro

RHP Josh Repmann (Neuqua Valley, 2027)
Repmann had a strong day on the mound Friday, only allowing one run over four innings of work. Additionally, racking up five strikeouts with no walks, only allowing two hits. The rising sophomore attacked the zone, coming from a whippy low 3/4 arm slot, showing a fastball that sat 77-79 mph (T80) and a deceptive slider in the low-70s with horizontal movement. A projectable 6-foot-2, 165 pounds, the Neuqua Valley student-athlete should be a name to follow moving forward.

RHP Alex Syska (Plainfield, 2027)
An athletic 5-foot-10, 155 pounds, Syska showed an easy fastball from a ¾ arm-slot that sat in the 77-81 mph range, topping at 82 and flashing a low-60s BB. The rising sophomore showed a competitive nature and should become a name to follow as his game matures on the mound. 

RHP Kobe Jordan (Providence Catholic, 2027)
Jordan had a dominant outing Friday, striking out five over four innings of work. The right-handed pitcher showcased an easy fastball from a 3/4 arm slot in the 79-81 mph range and paired with a deceptive upper-60s slider. An athletic, lean 6-foot-2, 175 pounds with a high waist, the rising sophomore has plenty of room for physical development and added strength. 

WOW FACTOR ILLINOIS 2027 SCOUT

SS Kash VanHouten (Canton, 2027)
6-foot, 175-pounds, athletic frame with strength throughout. A right-handed hitter at the plate, VanHouten displayed an easy swing, staying on-plane with minimal swing-and-miss in this look. Barreled a ball to deep left field for a double and showed quality speed around the bases. Continues to show well in-game for our staff with quiet confidence and high-level compete factor. Clean defensive actions, too, moving well to both sides with soft hands and a clean, smooth glove-to-hand transfer. VanHouten also had a dominant performance out of the bullpen in the Wow Factor semi-final game on Monday. The right-handed pitcher tossed three innings allowing three hits, zero runs, and one walk while striking out seven. His fastball came in at 90 mph and settled in at 88-89 mph. The breaking ball sat 70-74 mph, along with a 77 mph change-up. He was able to overpower hitters with a fastball with life and a breaking ball that created bad swings. A must-know name in the state’s 2027 class.

OF Keaton Ariano (Geneseo, 2027)
Intriguing frame at 6-foot-1, 185-pounds with athleticism and upper-half strength. Showed well in multiple at-bats today, showing a simple left-handed swing with a direct path to the ball. Tallied one hit in the game, sending a well-hit ball back up the middle for a single. Continued to swing a hot bat on Saturday morning, delivering a home run over the centerfield wall. A name-to-follow in Illinois’ to-be sophomore class. 

RHP Cullen Schwigen (Rockridge, 2027)
Schwigen had an impressive outing on the mound in the day’s first slot. He stands in a hard-to-miss frame at 6-foot-3, 180-pounds with more still to come. He finished the game throwing a complete game shutout with nine strikeouts, one walk and five hits allowed. He displayed a clean delivery paired with a compact arm action and acceleration out front, sitting mostly 85-88 mph on his fastball with arm-side run at times, producing quality spin at 2300-2400 rpm. He also mixed in a sharp breaking curveball at 75-76, showing feel to land for strikes, and a change-up at 79-82 mph. A high-follow prospect in Illinois’ 2027 class.

3B Eli Michanicou (Dunlap, 2027)
Displaying a strong and athletic  5-foot-11, 160-pound frame with plenty of room for growth, Michanicou contributed to Wow Factor in their 11-2 victory over Canes Indiana. The right-handed batter scored two runs and went 1-for-3 at the plate with a hard hit RBI single to left field. Mechanically at the plate, Michanicou has a wide power stance with high hands possessing a long leg kick with a compact swing, keeping his bat close to his body. Michanicou is quick out of the box and presents quality effort. Michanicou also showed well on the mound Monday morning in his semi-final game. The right-handed pitcher was sitting 79-82 mph with his fastball and 71-72 with the slider. He ended his outing after four innings allowing two runs, two walks, and five hits while striking out three. Michanicou attacked hitters and was able to generate soft contact. He had feel and command for both pitches. With the performance he had this weekend, he will be one to watch on both sides of the field. 

RHP Isaac Babbs (Dunlap, 2027) 
Presenting a strong and athletic 6-foot, 175-pound frame, Babbs came to play for Wow Factor in their game against Canes Indiana. At the plate, Babbs went 1-for-1 as he hit a deep double to left center hitting the wall on a bounce. Mechanically, the right handed batter bats with high hands and a wide slightly crouched stance. He has a medium leg kick and is quick to turn on the ball. His swing is compact as he keeps his bat close to his body. In addition to his offense, Babbs shoved on the mound as well. The righty came in to relief in the third inning, only pitching two innings, giving up zero earned runs, three hits, and zero walks. Babb’s fastball touched 79 mph as it sat 77-78 with a sharp 69 mph slider. 

RHP Connor Fox (Mt Zion, 2027)
An athletic 6-foot-0, 155-pound frame, Fox was dominant on the mound for Wow Factor Illinois this Sunday. The right-hander collected three strikeouts and allowed only one hit. His fastball sat 81-83 mph with a slider sitting 70-74 mph. The fastball had life out of the hand, paired with a sharp gyro slider. Both pitches had hitters guessing, leaving them frozen at the plate. Fox showed extreme repeatability able to hit spots on command. With a fluid motion and a clean quick arm action, Fox was able to get easy velocity. This right-handed pitcher will be a name to watch on the mound as he continues a strong summer. 

RHP Dylan Anderson (Perkin, 2027) 
5-foot-9, 144-pound frame, Anderson came in relief for Connor Fox in Wow Factor’s win on Sunday. The right-handed pitcher was sitting 79-82 mph with the fastball and 65-67 mph with the curveball. He was able to put the nail in the coffin, commanding both pitches and attacking hitters early in counts. The fastball had arm-side run, pairing with a quick and clean arm action. The curveball paired well, as he was  able to freeze hitters and generate off swings. 

16U 

16U Canes Central IL

OF Kolby Cleer (Lewistown, 2026)
5-foot-10, 175-pounds, evenly distributed weight. Put together a strong weekend starting off by leading Canes to a 9-0 victory going 2-for-3 at the plate with two RBI doubles. After his strong performance on Saturday, he was moved to the two-hole for the Canes and was all over the barrel in the nightcap on Sunday. Quick, strong right-handed swing, stays through the zone and swings with intent; notched two doubles on the day with one just missing a home run by a couple feet. An overall impressive weekend for the right-handed outfielder.

INF Brody Kenney (Brimfield, 2026)
Lean and wiry 5-foot-11, 160-pound frame, had an impressive day at the plate Saturday going 2-for-3. He barreled two doubles into the left-center gap and totaled four RBIs on the day. Kenney demonstrated strong bat-to-ball skills and was able to sit on an offspeed to poke the ball the other way with quick and direct hands. 

CHICAGO WARRIORS GREEN 2026

RHP Ronan Owens (Lane Tech, 2026)
The loose and athletic 6-foot-1, 190-pound righty got the start on the mound Saturday morning for Chicago Warriors Green. Owens worked with a fastball/curveball mix, primarily featuring the fastball throughout the start; sitting 80-83 mph (T84). His curveball was more of a show-pitch with 12/6 action to keep hitters off balance. He induced weak contact throughout his start, forcing ground balls and lazy pop ups, while punching out five over his four innings of work.

OF Antonio Yanez (Amundsen, 2026)
Was all over the barrel on Saturday morning from the right side of the plate. Yanez finished the day 2-for-2 with a walk, while swatting two hard singles into left field his first two at-bats. He had an aggressive approach in the box, taking advantage of hitters’ counts, and jumping on fastballs.

OF Quinn Roberts (DePaul College Prep, 2026)
Batted leadoff and showed athletic upside both at the plate and in centerfield. Standing in at a more physical 6-foot, 174-pound frame from when we last saw him, Roberts went 1-for-2 with a walk on Saturday morning. The right-handed hitter has an evident moxie about him at the dish and showed a patient approach that didn’t expand the zone. He also displayed easy athleticism and range out in centerfield throughout the game.

OF Kanan Kraus (Lane Tech, 2026)
Batted second and started in left field for the Warriors, finished the day 1-for-3. Kraus’s stat line doesn’t show how well he swung the bat Saturday morning; he was on the barrel twice from the left side with a single and a loud flyout to right field. He also showed versatility in his first at-bat where he laid down a well-placed sacrifice bunt that forced an errant throw from the opposing pitcher which led him to reach base safely. 

C Zolan Wyatt (Lane Tech, 2026)
Wyatt had an impressive weekend, showing an ability to drive the baseball from line to line with leverage in his swing. The right-handed hitter stands tall at the plate and utilizes his strong 6-foot-3, 185-pound frame to generate loud results. Defensively, the catcher showed flexibility behind the plate, especially for his size. Toughness was also a defining trait of Wyatt's game, making him an intriguing name to follow in the 2026 class.

1B/LHP Marcus Garton (Whitney Young, 2026)
Garton would showcase an intriguing two-way profile this weekend as a left-handed hitting first-baseman and left-handed pitcher. At the plate, he showed a contact-based approach and didn't look to do too much in any of his at-bats. On the mound, he showed a low-80s fastball from a low 3/4s arm slot and a breaking ball that sat in the 73-74 mph range. Just scratching the surface on both sides of the ball, Garton stands at 6-foot-2, 182 pounds. 

CRB 2026

1B Cesar Marquez (Chicago Hope, 2026)
Batted third and impressed offensively Saturday. The left-handed hitter showed a simple approach and swing that looks to go with the location of the pitch. In his lone at-bat of the game, he laced a single the other way to drive in a run.

GRB RAYS ILLINOIS YELLOW

LHP Logan Thennes (Prairie Ridge, 2026)
Got the start for GRB Rays Illinois Yellow on Friday night and didn’t allow a hit throughout his outing. The 6-foot-2, 165-pound southpaw featured a 77-79 mph fastball with sink to it, while going to a 68-71 mph curveball with depth. He turned in a final line of: 5.1 IP, 1 ER, 0 H, 4 BB, 11 K. 

UTL Sonny Marsalla (Woodstock, 2026)
The switch-hitter batted third and was the extra hitter on Friday night. The 5-foot-8, 165-pound prospect did his damage from the right side of the dish, where he swatted a loud double into the left-center field gap late in the game. 

INF Diego Herrera (Huntley, 2026)
Swatted a loud walk-off home run to deep left field to clinch the win for GRB Rays Illinois Yellow on Friday night. The sturdy 5-foot-10, 180-pound right-handed hitter showed easy juice on the swing, and also showed to have reliable hands defensively at second base. 

IL Hawks Red 16U

3B/RHP Bryce Lee (Morris, 2026)
Durable, 6-foot-1, 233-pound frame. Lee picked up a save on Friday in a brief relief appearance where he struck out the side. During said stint, Lee ran his fastball up to 84 mph and sat in the low 80s. Lee flashed feel for his off-speed pitches that he mixed in sparsely. Despite the short look, Lee’s ability to come into a leverage situation and get the job done is something to note for the ‘26 prospect.

LHP Brody Kelsey (Oswego, 2025)
Upside Lefty at 6-foot-5 183 pounds with room for added strength. Worked out of stretch only delivery with closed off stance and ¾ arm slot. Fastball sat 78-81 mph and worked the corners well, paired with a 60-64 mph 11/5 curveball. Kelsey tossed 5.2 innings only allowing four hits and two walks while striking out five. 

ILLINOIS DYNASTY 16U AMERICAN

RHP Matthew Rogers (Plainfield, 2026)
Rogers would come in relief during the 16U final this weekend, closing out the game with a multi-inning appearance of shutout baseball. The right-handed hitter came from a 3/4s arm slot and showed a fastball in the 79-83 (T84) mph range that was paired with an upper-60s-low-70s breaking ball. 

OF Brayden Myers (Joliet West, 2026)
The centerfielder for the 16U age group champions, Myers showed an athletic frame, moving well defensively and on the bases. The left-handed hitter has an open setup but stays athletic with a simple top tap that helps him get into a position to hit. 

C Sean Hogan (Joliet West, 2026)
An imposing 6-foot-3, 220 pounds, Hogan has plenty of present strength paired with an outgoing personality that plays well behind the dish. The right-handed hitter has a slightly open stance with an athletic leg kick. Hogan had an aggressive approach at the plate, looking to hit the ball hard. Should be a name to follow in the rising junior class.

RHP Michael Baetzel (Plainfield South, 2026)
Baetzel dominated on the mound on Sunday, throwing a complete game, only allowing three hits with one walk, four strikeouts, and zero earned runs. With a 5-foot-11, 145-pound frame Baetzel used a fastball/curveball mix that prevented hitters from making solid contact with the ball. The fastball was 77-81 mph with the curveball sitting 68-69 mph. Baetzel’s fastball had plenty of arm side run and sink while he worked on the inside half of the zone throughout the game. An impressive performance from the pitcher out of Plainfield south. 

KNIGHTS BASEBALL 2026

RHP Brady York (Sussex Hamilton, 2026)
York would have an impressive day Sunday, pitching six innings of quality baseball, only allowing four hits and one run with eight strikeouts. The right-hander had athletic movements on the mound, standing at 5-foot-11, 165 pounds. His fastball sat 77-79 mph (T80) and was paired with a deceptive changeup in the low-70s, which allowed York to mix and match throughout the outing. 

RHP Jacob Osmanski (Sussex Hamilton, 2026)
On Sunday, Osmanski would get the save for Knights Baseball during their bracket-play game against Rhino Baseball, throwing one inning and striking out the side. The right-handed pitcher showed a quality arsenal in his short outing. Coming from a 3/4 arm slot, he showed a fastball in the upper-70s that topped at 80 mph and was paired with a mid-60s breaker. Osmanski sports an athletic 5-foot-10, 175-pound frame. 

RAWLINGS TIGERS CHICAGO SEFCIK

LHP Michael Pettit (Lincoln-Way West, 2026)
Pettit continued to establish himself as one of the top left-handed pitchers in the state Sunday, and he will be representing Illinois in the Future Games in late July. Pettit would struggle in the first inning against Leathernecks 16U but would proceed to pitch another 5.1 without letting up an earned run and striking out eight. Pitching exclusively out of the stretch, he comes from a low 3/4s arm slot that caused deception to hitters throughout the outing. Pettit would show quality pitchability as well, showcasing a three-pitch mix that included an upper-80s fastball that topped at 91 mph, a low-80s changeup, and a mid-70s breaking ball. He offers an athletic 6-foot-1, 165-pound frame and is just scratching the surface of his physical potential. He is a must-follow in the Class of 2026. 

3B/RHP Jackson Mansker (Lincoln-Way West, 2026)
Physically imposing frame in the box at 6-foot-2 195 pounds with a quiet setup and an inside out swing that generated power. On the mound, the right-handed pitcher was a competitor and pitched in practically every situation for his team with his best fastball on the weekend sitting at 84 mph, pairing with a quality breaking ball that Mansker showed trust in.

OF David Kundrat (Lockport, 2026)
Showed well in Center Field for Rawlings Tigers Chicago. Physical lower half that he used well at the plate, had a quick inside out swing and was quick out of the box. Defensively he showed smooth actions in center and was able to cut down a runner trying to tag up on a sac fly attempt.

RHP Jakob Harmon (Lincoln-Way West, 2026)
Harmon creates physical leverage on the mound with his 5-foot-10, 210-pound frame, sporting a 78-80 mph fastball and a low-70s changeup. He would throw 2.1 quality innings on Monday, striking out three while allowing only one hit, one run, and one walk. 

RHP Jake Matise (Mt. Carmel, 2026)
Got the start Saturday morning and threw the ball well for Rawlings Tigers Chicago. Stands in at an athletic and bouncy 6-foot, 168-pound frame with more room to fill out. His delivery is easy and clean, with a loose, high ¾ arm slot to pair. Matise primarily featured an 82-84 mph (T85) fastball that he controlled to both sides of the plate, with the ability to miss barrels. His curveball worked in the 65-69 mph range and earned occasional whiffs, to help keep hitters off his fastball. He turned in a final line of: W, 5.1 IP, 1 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 9 K. Matise is an uncommitted name to continue to monitor in the state’s incoming-junior class.

RBA King 16U

C Matt Keaty (Huntley, 2026) - Loomans
5-foot-7, 145 pound-frame. Keaty commanded the game for RBA behind the dish as swung a hot bat and offered some innings on the mound. Keaty offers a controlled swing with a clear feel for the barrel head as he allows it to work through the zone while he sinks into his legs. The right-handed catcher had a standout performance on Friday as he went 4-for-4 with a go-ahead home run. Defensively, Keaty let his arm show as he was constantly keeping runners at bay with backpicks along with gunning down some runners attempting to swipe a base. The strong arm is just one of many tools that Keaty showed as he was also an easy mover and an active/willing blocker. The catcher stepped onto the mound later in the week and sat 78-82 mph with an 11/5 curveball at 70-71 mph. Keaty struck out the side in one inning to cap off his strong weekend.

RHINO BASEBALL CENTRAL IL CLAPP

RHP Grayson Coughlin (University, 2026)
Coughlin would show athletic actions on the mound Sunday, throwing five innings with five strikeouts. He pounded the zone, not walking anybody and throwing 70% strikes. Coughlin showed a fastball that sat 78-81 mph (T82) with a 68-73 mph breaking ball. 

RHP Jacob Engel (Normal, 2026)
Engel would have an impressive two-inning Sunday, striking out five while allowing no hits, runs, or walks. Engel pounded the zone, and resultantly 75% of his pitches ended up strikes. The right-handed pitcher would showcase an 83-85 mph fastball that was paired with a 75-77 breaking ball. Definitely a name to follow in the 2026 class. 

17U

Cangelosi Sparks 2025 Jones 

RHP/2B Dominik Alberico (Providence Catholic, 2025)
At a wiry 5-foot-9, 145-pound frame, he put together a savvy performance in relief during the Sparks’ Friday night pool-play game, going a scoreless 4.2innings and keeping the score close throughout the back half of the game. Utilizing a sidearm slot and extreme third base side landing spot and finish, he made it difficult for hitters to pick up pitch location and spin out of the hand. Fastball sat from 76-77 mph with armside run, topping at 78; backed by a sweeping 3/8 curveball sitting from 65-67 mph, that created long swings, and a changeup sitting from 67-69 mph. Alberico would also get out of a bases loaded, one out jam in the third inning that limited damage. 

OF Peyton Ablin (Lincoln-Way Central, 2025)
Had a quality showing on both sides of the ball Sunday. Stands in at an athletic 5-foot-8, 174-pounds. The right-handed hitter had three hits on the day, two of which were doubles. Ablin showed some foot speed out of the box consistently, and his athleticism carried over to the outfield where he showed range in left field, and even made a sliding grab early in the game. 

Cangelosi Sparks North-White 2025

RHP/OF  Peter Farren (Oak Park-River Forest, 2025)
Farren showed well at the plate the first day, going 2-for-4 with a HR, 2B, and two RBI’s to help the Sparks North White 17u to victory. The right handed hitter has a tall and balanced setup; pairing with a short leg kick and a short load with the hands. Also a right handed pitcher, he went two IP with four punchouts and only allowed one hit in his outing against Top Tier Navy 17u. The 5-11, 175-pound athletic frame has a clean delivery and delivers his arsenal from a high ¾ slot. The fastball was sitting 83-85 mph topping out at 86 mph. The curveball sits at 72-74 and has proper shape keeping hitters off balance.

SS Carter Monroe (Palatine, 2025)
5-11, 155-pound shortstop showed a variety of skills in his performance against Rhino Baseball Central Illinois Paxson 17u. Defensively the shortstop is able to move laterally with ease and has fluid footwork working around the ball. He is able to throw from multiple slots and showed accuracy on multiple plays throughout the game. At the plate, he went 2-for-4 with a 2B. The right handed hitter has a balanced set up with a short leg kick. Simple approach looking to place balls in the gaps. 

C Colin Roche (Nazareth, 2025)
Roche showed an ability to find the barrel from a wider athletic base and above-average bat speed. A physically imposing 6-foot-2, 182 pounds, the catcher should be a name to follow. 

GRB Stiks White 17U

OF Riley Kempf (Menomonee Falls, 2025)
Athletic 5-foot-8, 165-pound frame, put on a defensive display in centerfield during both of GRB’s pool-play games Friday. The right handed outfielder covered both gaps, demonstrating above average closing speed, a quickly decisive first jump, and quiet feet going back and coming in on fly balls. He had a combined eight putouts between the two games, catching just about anything hit in his direction, making two full extension diving plays ranging into the right center gap. Offensively, he also provided a couple quality at-bats, going 1-for-1 with a pull side single and two walks in game one. 

Illinois Braves 17U

RHP/1B Josh Kursell (Judah, 2026)
Lean 6-foot-2, 165-pound frame, impressed in his few innings of relief work in the Braves’ Friday night game. The right hander presented a ¾ arm slot, slow and long arm swing, deep back leg sink, and a repeatable motion from the windup and stretch. Fastball sat from 80-81 mph with carry, topping at 82; backed by an effective 2/8 curveball sitting from 68-69 mph. A clean mover with room for further development. 

Leathernecks 17U

RHP/OF Cayden Ray (Owensboro, 2025)
Standing at an athletic 6-foot, 175-pound frame, the uncommitted right hander had an impressive outing, throwing a five inning complete game in the Leathernecks’ 10-2 win Friday afternoon. The performance consisted of 10 strikeouts and only one hit allowed, finishing his final inning with a pickoff of the runner at second base to escape a jam. Mechanically, presented a fluid and repeatable motion, ¾ arm slot, long arm swing, medium leg kick, and a front foot drag slide step with runners on base. Fastball sat from 89-91 mph with ride and late life elevated in the strike zone. He also showed feel for two breaking balls, including a 2/8 curveball sitting from 78-80 mph consistently inducing swings and misses and thrown for strikes, and a tight slider sitting from 81-82 mph. He later followed up the outing with a valuable game at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a pair of pull side singles and an RBI in the Leathernecks’ 4-3 win Friday night.  

RHP Colin Wolfe (North, 2024)
Lean 6-foot, 160-pound frame, right hander threw a complete game in the Leathernecks’ 4-3 Friday night win. Utilizing a polished four pitch mix and pitch to contact approach, he produced weak contact and painted the corners with both his fastball and offspeed. Displayed a ¾ arm slot, long arm swing, upright stride and finish, and abbreviated follow through. Fastball sat from 80-82 mph with a higher perceived velocity due to extension, topping at 83. Curveball was thrown for strikes and produced whiffs, while presenting a true 12/6 shape and sitting from 69-70 mph; followed by a changeup with armside run sitting from 74-76 mph and a tight slider sitting from 70-72 mph. An impressive outing for the uncommitted Wolfe.  

OF Ryne Wilhite (Princeton Community, 2025)
Strong and sturdy 6-foot, 190-pound left-handed hitter that was on the barrel numerous times Sunday. Batting fifth in the order, Wilhite finished the day 2-for-2 with a double and a walk. He has a do-damage approach at the plate paired with a swing that looks to elevate the ball to all fields. Wilhite also showed to be a reliable defender in right field to pair with his easy left-handed pop.

OUTLAWS 17U

RHP/INF Gavin Lawrence (Washington, 2025)
The right-hander fired a complete game shutout, striking out 13 along the way. His fastball cruised around 83-85 mph, topping a 86; setting up a shorter 10/4 breaking ball at 72-74 mph that he could land for strikes. Lawrence then showed well at the plate on Sunday morning. The strong right-handed hitter barreled up the baseball a couple times, even hitting an inside-the-park grand slam late in the game to help push the Outlaws to victory. Lawrence finished the game 2-for-4 with a home run, five RBI, and a run scored.

LHP Aidan Terronez (Sherrard, 2025)
6-foot-1, 170-pounds, lean and projectable frame. The southpaw impressed with a fastball up to 87 mph, cruising around 83-86 mph with the ability to pound the zone. He was also able to land his curveball and changeup for strikes, with the CB playing in the low-70s with 1/7 shape and the CH coming in at 76-78 mph. Easy operation with more in the tank. 

1B/RHP Carter Prina (Washington, 2026)
Uncommitted. Prina got the start at first base and batted seventh on Sunday morning. He presents a physical 6-foot-3, 220-pound frame with strength throughout. He impressed with the easy right-handed power he showed in his first at-bat when hit a backside home run to right field. On the mound the right-handed pitcher showed present physicality with a low-80s fastball that topped at 87 mph.

UTL/LHP Christian Ferrari (Dunlap, 2025)
Uncommitted. Ferrari batted leadoff and got the start on the mound Sunday morning for the Outlaws. He tallied two hits, both of which were pull-side doubles. He also punched out seven batters over his five innings of two-run ball. From the left side, he has a compact swing with hands that catch the baseball out front with an intent to take the ball to the pull-side.The southpaw then worked his fastball up to 81 mph on the mound with a short slider to go with it.

RHP/OF Brandon Sieben (Morton, 2025)
Showed well on the mound in relief for the Outlaws Sunday. An athletic mover downhill at 6-foot-1, 165-pounds. He featured a low-80’s fastball (T84), and would go to a tight slider at 75-76 mph (2300+ rpm) for swings and misses when needed. Final line: 2 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 1 BB, 4 K.

PTA MARCHASE 17U 

C AJ Clark (Whitnall, 2025)
The backstop out of Whitnall High School showed well on both sides of the ball. The catcher back picked two runners during the contest, and he also threw out two runners attempting to steal second. He showed off the arm as well as the blocking skills on the defensive side. A very impressive performance out of the catcher position. Offensively Clark stood out going three for three with a triple, two runs, and two RBIs. The quick twitch right hander had an all around impressive game and is a name to follow. 

RHP Sam Hirthe (New Berlin Eisenhower, 2025) 
A projectable, 6-foot-0, 167-pound frame, was dominant on the mound in PTA’s win over Rhino Baseball. He struck out nine batters, only walking two, in 6.1 of work. The uncommitted right-hander had his fastball sitting 85-88 mph, and a curveball sitting 75-77mph. Attacking the zone with control of both pitches, Hirthe was able to generate soft contact and whiffs the entire game. Hirthe has a fluid motion, followed by a quick smooth arm, and is an uncommitted name to be known in the Badger state. 

Rawlings Tigers HOI 

C Eli Craft (Monticello, 2025)
The lean 6-foot, 183-pound uncommitted catcher impressed on both sides of the ball in the Tigers’ 5-4 pool-play win Friday afternoon. Defensively, he regularly won low pitch strikes for his pitcher, exhibiting an understanding of relax to catch point timing, utilizing an advanced ability to stay low and through fastballs and offspeed in the lower quadrants; from a one knee down stance. He was also horizontally quick with control on blocks and had one caught stealing, showing off an explosive arm, efficient first jab step on footwork, and a quick transfer. At the plate, he added a hard hit single to center field, demonstrating a minimal leg kick and stride, short load, and balanced lower half. A player to keep an eye on over the next several years. 

RHP/3B  Nolan Earley (St. Joseph-Ogden, 2025)
Presenting a physical 6-foot, 205-pound frame, the uncommitted right hander guided the Tigers to their 5-4 win Friday afternoon. The outing was smooth as Earley went five innings, striking out six and walking one. He was a fast mover, using a ¾ arm slot from a short arm delivery, bent upper half throughout the finish, and a repeatable motion from the windup and stretch. Fastball sat from 83-85 mph with carry, topping at 86; backed by a 2/8 curveball used as an out pitch versus righties sitting from 72-74 mph, and an occasional changeup sitting from 74-75 mph. All of which avoided solid contact and were effective. 

RHINO 2025 SPEISER

RHP Matthew Fox (Lockport, 2025)
Fox is an intriguing arm in the soon-to-be senior class. He stands in a projectable 6-foot, 160-pound frame with seemingly more to come. Out of a stretch-only delivery, Fox showed a clean delivery with a long and loose arm action. His fastball sat in the low-80s throughout, and he turned to a mid-70s changeup often, showing feel to throw it for strikes. Fox also mixed in a curveball at 65-66 mph with gradual 11/5 shape. He threw a complete game shutout in his outing.

SS Cole Yates (Illinois Valley Central, 2025)
Heartland commit. Yates showed well in this look. A clean defender up the middle with range and quality actions, Yates also showed a strong and accurate arm across the diamond. At the plate, he barreled a ball to deep right field in his second at-bat of the game, showing above-average bat speed with the swing. He’s an athletic, 5-foot-8, 160-pound build with above-average speed. He would later go 3-for-4 with a bases clearing opposite field double and two pull side singles in the Rhino’s 8-2 Friday night win.

RHP Blake Geiger (Plainfield East, 2025)
At an imposing 6-foot-2, 195-pound frame, he controlled the strike zone, throwing a complete game in Rhino’s 8-2 win Friday night. Over the seven innings pitched he racked up eight strikeouts; three looking and five swinging, while only surrendering two runs on four hits. The right hander displayed mound presence, a ¾ arm slot, short arm action, slight third base side landing spot, and a fluid motion. Fastball sat from 78-80 mph with a higher perceived velocity due to arm extension. Curveball being used as a putaway pitch sat from 66-67 mph, and a rarely used changeup sitting from 73-75 mph. A quality performance for the uncommitted Geiger. 

MIF Noah Pharo (Minooka, 2025)
Proportionally athletic 6-foot, 170-pound frame, had a clutch day at the plate in the Rhino’s 8-2 win Friday night. The right handed hitting infielder went 2-for-4 with two RBI’s, including an RBI triple in the second inning, tying the game at the time, and an RBI single in the fourth inning. With an aggressive mindset early in counts, he jumped on first and second pitch fastballs often. He showed a fluid and balanced swing, step back toe tap for timing, short stride, forceful hip drive, proper lower half weight distribution, and flat bat path. An overall productive game for the uncommitted Pharo.     

RHP Dominic Palumbo (Carl Sandburg, 2025)
An athletic 5-foot-11, 175-pound frame, Palumbo was solid on the mound for the Rhino’s first game Saturday. In three innings of work, he struck out three. The right-handed pitcher had his fastball sitting 83-84 mph, with a curveball sitting 75-78 mph. Palumbo had control of both pitches, getting ahead in counts. His curveball paired well with a lively fastball that generated soft contact and whiffs. With a fluid and repeatable motion Palumbo will be a name to watch this summer. 

RHINO CENTRAL IL 17U PAXSON

RHP/1B Will Paxson (Normal University, 2025; Oakland Commit)
6-foot-1, 185-pound right-hander showed well in his first outing of the weekend. Paxton had a clean motion with a whippy arm from a high ¾ slot. The slider worked well off of his fastball throughout his outing. The right hander had a heavy fastball that topped at 89 mph, sitting 85-88 mph. Paxton used his slider in every count sitting 75-78 mph.The slider froze many hitters when Paxson was ahead in the count. Also used a change up in various counts that was 77-79 mph. Paxson struck out eight batters through three innings pitched allowing only one hit and zero earned runs. In addition to his outing, Paxson swung a loud bat that was consistently on barrel all weekend.

RHP Luke Klunke (Normal Community, 2025)
5-foot-11, 180-pound frame with some looseness throughout, was dominant in his start on Friday night as he struck out 10 batters over four innings of work. Klunke presented a whippy arm with a fluid delivery, clear composure on the bump. The right-handed arm ran his fastball up to 85 mph while it sat 80-83 mph. Klunke also featured a put-away slurve with some slider-like actions but a tight curveball shape. The wipeout pitch sat at 74-76 mph and generated swings-and-misses that Klunke used to record outs.

RHP Ben Schweigert (Normal Community, 2025)
There is a lot to like about Schweigert's profile on the mound, as the rising senior still offers a projectable 6-foot-5, 190 pounds. Coming from a high 3/4 arm slot and sporting a 78-80 mph (T81) fastball that was paired with an upper-60s breaking ball, the right-handed pitcher has plenty of room to generate more velocity. Schweigert is an intriguing name in the rising senior class. 

SPARKS 2025 JONES

RHP Andy Antonacci (Sacred Heart-Griffin, 2025) 
The right-hander had a strong start using his fastball and slider mix. The fastball was heavy and had arm side run which jammed many hitters on the hands, sitting 86-90 mph. Antonacci was able to locate the fastball as well as keep the hitters off balance with his firm slider that sat at 75-78 mph. The 5-foot-10, 160-pound pitcher has a clean and smooth windup with a ¾ arm slot. A very impressive start and a name to follow in the 2025 class.

SS Kiet Truong (Neuqua Valley, 2025)
Truong Showed well at the plate today, launching two home runs. The shortstop ended game one with a walk-off three run home run in the bottom of the seventh and later hit another home run in game two in the left center gap. The Shortstop has a smooth and easy swing with a gap to gap approach. There is easy power in the swing and gets the barrel straight to the ball consistently. Truong launching two home runs helped his team get to 2-0 on the day. The 6-foot, 175-pound athlete is a name to look at in the 2025 class. 

TOP TIER AMERICANS

LHP Jack Bauer (Lincoln-Way East, 2025)
Virginia commit. Standing in at a projectable 6-foot-3, 175-pound frame, Bauer started on the mound for Top Tier Americans in Saturday’s game, throwing two innings with three strikeouts and not allowing a run. The left-handed pitcher’s three pitch mix gave hitters fits during his outing where he flashed multiple fastballs up to 94 mph and sat 91-94 mph on the day. With his offspeed, he employed a sharp slider at 78-79 mph and a changeup at 80-82 mph. While he continues to develop consistency with his command, his movement on his offspeed was the real breaking point in his performance, causing multiple hitters to freeze up. Bauer’s appearance was strong enough to earn Top Tier an 8-0 victory as he was able to showcase why he is one of the top left-handed pitchers in the country right now.

LHP Conor Essenburg (Lincoln-Way West, 2025)
Kansas State commit. Essenburg started on the mound in Friday night’s last game. He finished the game throwing two innings with five strikeouts, one walk, one run and two hits allowed. Clean, athletic mover on the mound with a loose arm. He used his fastball often which sat 89-91 mph, topping out at 92 mph with mostly straight actions. He also mixed in slider with hard bite at 76-78 mph with 2200-2300 rpm. A high-level arm in the state’s incoming senior class. Essenburg later showed easy right-handed pop at the plate, lacing two doubles in their game on Saturday. He uses a whole field approach at the plate, and can generate power to any part of the field. He also showed natural actions in the outfield with his strong arm translating to the outfield as well.

CF Joey Arend (St. Charles North, 2025)
Xavier commit. Arend started the game out with a standup triple to the left-center gap, showing clear speed around the base paths. He later walked and singled in the game on a ball up the middle of the field. Arend is a strong defender, showing easy range and a quality arm to pair. He stands in an intriguing and athletic frame at 6-foot-1, 169-pounds with seemingly more strength to come.

RHP Michael Furmanek (Plainfield East, 2025)
Uncommitted. Stands in at a long-limbed 6-foot-6, 198-pounds, and got the start in their game on Saturday afternoon. Furmanek has some deception to his delivery, with the ball coming out of a low ¾ arm slot that gets on hitters late. He worked his fastball in the 85-89 mph range (T90) with some sink to it. He would then go to a slider at 77-80 mph for swings and misses. He tossed four shutout innings, allowing just one hit and two walks, while striking out five.

RHP/UTL Kaleb Navarro (De La Salle, 2025)
Uncommitted and currently ranked No. 125 in the state. Navarro showed well on both sides of the ball Saturday. At the plate, the right-handed hitter swatted two doubles, he also came out of the ‘pen and tossed two and two-thirds perfect innings, striking out four. On the mound, the 6-foot-3, 210-pound right-hander pounded the strike zone (76% strikes) and showed  composure when he entered in a bases-loaded jam and only needed one pitch to get a double play and out of the jam. He worked his fastball up to 90 mph, and mixed in a 76-77 mph curveball. 

C Carter Lennington (Minooka, 2025)
Uncommitted and currently ranked No. 166 in the state. Lennington was all over the barrel throughout the tournament, hitting a pair of homers in the first two games for Top Tier, and then adding onto it with a double on Saturday afternoon. Presents a 6-foot, 190-pound frame with apparent strength in the lower-half that he utilizes for power. Defensively, he presents a large target behind the plate and has flexibility in the hips, allowing him to get to pitches on both sides of the plate. Lennington also showed a visibly strong arm that played true and accurate.

TOP TIER CENTRAL

MIF/DH Kyle Beaty (Normal Community, 2025)
Continues to show well in-game for our staff. He showed multiple quality swings in this game, sending a well-hit line-out to left field in his first at-bat, and following up with a single up the middle.The right-handed hitter stands in an athletic 6-foot, 185-pound frame with strength throughout.

RHP Jonah Roper (Normal Community, 2025)
6-foot-3, 203-pound frame with clear strength in the lower half. Roper got the call on Saturday and was efficient across his start. The right-handed arm worked through seven innings and allowed three runs, none of which were earned. Roper featured an easy delivery on the mound that showed repetition and feel for the way he operates. He showed a long, loose arm action with some quickness out front.. Roper’s arsenal featured a fastball that he ran up to 85 mph and sat 82-84 mph throughout. He also flashed feel for off-speed pitches that he was consistently able to induce weak contact with, helping him work through the contest.

SS Davis Weeks (Dunlap, 2025)
Uncommitted. Stands in a strong and athletic 6-foot-2, 190-pound frame, and continues to add strength each time we see him. Showed well at the plate in this look, barreling baseball’s in both games he played today. Also an athletic defender with a steady glove and a strong arm across the diamond. On Monday, Weeks showed well both on the mound and in the box. In his start on the mound, the right-hander topped out at 90mph, settling in at 88-89 mph with a curveball sitting at 75-79 mph. He showed the ability to get easy velocity from a repeatable motion followed by quick and clean arm action. Weeks got into trouble but was able to work around it and limit damage. In the box, Weeks collected four hits including a double down the left-field line, showing a confident and calm approach at the plate. Weeks is a must-know uncommitted 2025 in Illinois.

RHP Ryan Schaffnit (Morton, 2025)
Uncommitted and currently ranked No. 79 in the state. The high-waisted, loose-bodied 6-foot-6, 215-pound right got the start for the Top Tier Central Americans Sunday afternoon and went the distance. Schaffnit navigated a three-pitch mix in this look and had a feel for the zone with all three. His fastball had late life to it at 84-87 mph (T88), while his best offspeed offering was an arm-side fading changeup at 74-76 mph that he commanded to both sides of the plate. Schaffnit also showed a slider at 77-78 mph that earned occasional whiffs. A must-know in the state’s incoming-senior class. 

3B Tyler Dowling (Bloomington, 2025) 
A lean, 6-foot-2, 161-pound frame, Dowling showed well in Top Tier’s two games this Monday. The left-hander batter racked up four hits, one being a double and a walk. In the box, Dowling shows a simple powerful swing that is direct to the ball. He is able to generate easy power and finds barrels driving the ball to all parts of the field. He also came in relief during their first game, closing it out with a fastball sitting 77-79 mph, topping at 81 mph, along with a curveball sitting 66-68mph. 

C Alex Kiefer (Mount Vernon, 2025)
A powerful, 5-foot-9, 195-pound frame, Kiefer showed well behind the plate and in the box in Monday's Championship game. The switcher hitter showed presence and maturity in the box. In his second at-bat of the game, he laced a double down the right field line from the left-handed batter's box. He showed good hands turning on an inside fastball and getting the barrel to the ball. Out of the box he ran well husting in for a double. Behind the plate he showed his athleticism, looking comfortable in multiple positions. Kiefer showed natural action behind the plate with feel and rhythm. He also showed a strong arm with throws on a line to the bag. Kiefer is a catcher to watch in the 2025 class. 

RHP Jaxson Tresenrieter (Dunlap, 2025) 
An athletic, 6-foot-0, 155-pound frame, Tresenrieter had a strong Championship game on the mound for Top Tier. The right-hander went five innings allowing five hits, two runs, and zero walks while striking out eight. Tresenrieter had his fastball sitting 82-85 mph and his slider sitting 70-74 mph. He was able to command his fastball with arm-side run on any part of the plate. With his sharp slider, he was able to locate in the lower half of the zone, generating a multitude of whiffs with the pitch. He had feel on the mound with a fluid motion and whippy arm action. Tresenrieter got ahead attacking hitters with an even mix of fastballs and sliders. The uncommitted right-hander is one to keep an eye on as the summer progresses. 

Top Tier Nationals 17U

MIF Christian Clark (St. Rita of Cascia, 2025)
Uncommitted. Athletic 5-foot-11, 150-pound frame that played second base during the game. Clark contributed on both sides of the ball in Top Tier’s 7-4 win Friday morning. Defensively, displayed range to both sides with the ability to throw off balance from multiple arm angles, collecting a pair of putouts. Offensively, he has a high leg kick, efficient load, balanced lower half, and opposite field approach, smoking a two-RBI opposite field double in the second inning, putting his team up 4-0 at the time. A speedy and smooth moving player to monitor over the next year. 

C Julian Esparza (St. Laurence, 2025)
Uncommitted. Esparza impressed with his performance at the plate on Sunday. The strong right-handed hitter barreled balls throughout the game, even when he made an out. What stood out the most perhaps was his patient approach at the plate that pairs well with his barrel strength. He tallied a double in the game to go with two walks and a lineout.

RHP Matt Murphy (Mt. Carmel, 2025)
Uncommitted. Got the start for Top Tier Nationals and tossed three scoreless innings. The athletic 6-foot-1, 185-pound righty featured a fastball/slider mix. He got ahead early in counts with his fastball that sat 83-85 mph (T86). He would then go to a 69-70 mph slider (2250+ rpm) to miss barrels and keep opposing hitters off his fastball. He turned in a final line of: 3 IP, 0 R, 3 H, 3 BB, 2 K.

3B Jimmy Phelan (Hinsdale Central, 2025)
Uncommitted. Stands in a strong, 6-foot-2, 200-pound frame. Showed well on Saturday, delivering a home run in his first at-bat and following up with a ground rule double over the right field wall in his next at-bat. He’s a strong right-handed hitter with easy power when contact is made. Phelan is a follow prospect in Illinois’ incoming senior class. 

Top Tier Navy 17U

RHP Joe Falkowski (Taft, 2025)
Falfowksi is an athletic right-handed arm and he stands in a 6-foot, 180-pound frame. In his outing on Saturday, he showed an 81-83 mph fastball, and paired it with an upper-60s breaking ball. A name to follow in the state’s 2025 class.

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