2024 OHSAA Tournament: Regional Preview - Division I
May 30, 2024
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2024 OHSAA Tournament: Regional Preview - Division I
Division-I Tournament Bracket
Division I State and Regional Tournament Bracket
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Region 1 - Oberlin
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Districts: Northeast 1 vs. Northeast 4 | Northeast 2 vs. Northeast 3
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Region 2 - Grove City
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Region 3 - Bowling Green/Gates Mills
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Districts: Northwest 2 vs. Northwest 1 | Northeast 5 vs. Northeast 6
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Region 4 - Oxford
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Districts: Southwest 3 vs. Southwest 1 | Southwest 2 vs. Southwest 4
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Division I Preview
Region 1 - Oberlin
- Districts: Northeast 1 vs. Northeast 4 | Northeast 2 vs. Northeast 3
Region Overview: Twinsburg blanked Dover 3-0 behind a three-hitter from junior RHP Lucas Tinter to win its first district championship since 2006. Josh Stalnaker hit a two-run triple to put the Suburban League National Conference co-champs on top in the sixth. Kris Kimmel, one of 12 seniors on the squad, had a two-run single in the top of the seventh in a 7-5 win over Hoban in the district semis. … Three hits from Hayden Meese helped Wooster beat Saint Ignatius 7-2 in the district final for the second year in a row. Sam Nielsen had two hits and threw 5.1 innings of relief after starter Kyle Oswald left with an injury. Brady Bowen threw 5.2 frames of three-hit ball with 10 Ks in a 2-0 blanking of North Olmsted in the sectional finals. … Massillon Jackson has not permitted a run in the tournament, beating Boardman 9-0, Louisville 6-0 and Canton GlenOak 3-0. Eric Freetage became the fifth player in school history with 100 hits and Carter Mottice broke the school stolen base record. … Jackson will meet Federal League foe North Canton Hoover for the third time this season, with Hoover winning the previous two 3-2 and 5-4 back in April. One-two hitters Mason Ashby and Jack Andes have powered a Hoover attack that scored nine runs in the district semis and finals.
For Fun Prediction:
Dylan Hefflinger
- Twinsburg over Wooster
- Massillon Jackson over North Canton Hoover
- REGIONAL CHAMP - Twinsburg
Fan Vote:
- Twinsburg over Wooster
- Massillon Jackson over North Canton Hoover
- REGIONAL CHAMP - Massillon Jackson
#12 Twinsburg
Record: 21-6
Head Coach: Jim Lipinski
Final Ranking: No. 12
Preseason Ranking: No. 35
Postseason History:
- 4th district title in school history
- 1st district title since 2006
Top Players:
- Bobby Lemieux, CF, 2025
- Jack Phillips, RF, 2024
- Josh Stalnaker, P/DH, 2024
- Kris Kimmel, 1B, 2024
- Lane Conway, C, 2025
- A.J. Taneja, SS, 2024
- Jason Cox, 2B, 2025
- Kyler Hoon, 3B, 2027
- Jaden Dye, CF, 2024
- Lucas Tinter, RHP, 2025
- Ryan Hojdar, RHP, 2025
- Llyeton Torok, RHP, 2024
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: This team has a a lot of fight and no quit, We are lead by 12 seniors and have had a few come from behind, and late wins, most recently against Hoban in the District Semi-finals. They challenge each other to be the best version of themselves on the baseball field and have belief in one another to get the job done. We are playing our best baseball when it matters the most and look forward to the challenge of playing in our difficult regional.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: Extreme joy for my players, families, and the Twinsburg Community. We had not won a District title since 2006 and seeing the joy in everyone's face made the moment that much more special. This year has been a difficult year for Twinsburg baseball as we lost our Head Coach of 5 years (2019-2023) and assistant of 12 years (2007-2018) in a car accident in December. Our players have been playing this year for Jeff Luca and I cannot help to think that he is here with us every step of the way.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and happy to see my young men get the chance to compete at such a high level. When you get to regionals every team is good and every team has great arms. It will come down to clutch hitting, great pitching, and defense and we have been fortunate up to this time to have all three.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: We have a very difficult region with 3 teams that have been here before. Wooster is a very good team capable of beating anyone at anytime. I know they are well coached and do a lot of the little things correctly. It should be a great game and I am looking forward to my team competing. As far as the other two teams go, what can I say, Jackson has played one of the toughest schedules in the State and are good every year. Hoover beat them twice in the regular season so it should be a great game. We are happy to be here but know we belong and we look forward to the challenge of Wooster.
PBR: Anything else you would like to add?
Coach: Just again want to mention how special this season has been for Twinsburg and our Community. We lost our head coach in a car accident in December, this is my first year as head coach. We turned around from an 8-17 (1-11 in conference) to going 21-6 (13-1 in Conference) and being Co-Champs in the Suburban League National Conference with highly ranked North Royalton who we split with. It has been a fun and exciting year and I could not be more proud for the young men on my team to have this opportunity to compete.
#20 Wooster
Record: 20-6
Head Coach: Steve Young
Final Ranking: No. 20
Preseason Ranking: No. 29
Postseason History:
- 3rd district title in school history, including back-to-back years
Top Players:
- Hayden Meese, CF, 2025
- AJ Likowski, LF/RHP, 2025
- Brady Bowen, RHP/INF, 2025
- Sam Nielsen, 1B/LHP, 2025
- Brian Lapp, DH, 2026
- Aidan McMillan, RF, 2027
- Dylan Hudson, C, 2024
- Brock Bowen, SS, 2027
- Henry Wilds, 2B, 2024
- Will Tirakis, 3B, 2024
- Ashton Still, LHP, 2024
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We're having fun, playing for each other and executing at a high level. We're doing all the little things right, trusting our game plan/approach and trusting our teammates.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: Obviously a great feeling anytime you can win meaningful games against very tough opponents, but ultimately, my immediate thoughts went to all the hard work, time and effort our guys have put in all season. Like every team, there are unexpected bumps in the road in every season and just the way our guys have stuck together and played for each other...it was emotional. Couldn't be prouder of our players and staff, but the discussion immediately turned to not being satisfied. We want to go further than last year and our guys are excited for the opportunity.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: It's exciting - exciting for our boys, exciting for our school and our community. We've only won 3 District Titles in our school's history and to be back here for a second year in a row, it's special. Our team recognizes just how special it is and we appreciate the opportunity in front of us, but we also know these will be the toughest games of our season, by far. The challenge only gets tougher and tougher against elite teams and programs when you get to this point.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: Four very talented teams that are exceptionally well coached and established teams/programs. We have the utmost respect for the teams in our Region and want to congratulate all of them on making it to this point. It will be a massive challenge to come out of this region and whoever that ends up being will have earned it.
PBR: Anything else you would like to add?
Coach: We're thankful for the support of our families, school and community throughout this entire season and we're hoping to make everyone associated with our program proud. We also want to thank all the players from the past who have helped lay the foundation and raise the expectations for our program. Each and every one of them are a part of this with us.
#7 Massillon Jackson
Record: 22-8
Head Coach: Bill Gamble
Final Ranking: No. 7
Preseason Ranking: No. 6
Postseason History:
- 13th district title in school history.
Top Players:
- Carter Mottice CF, 2024
- Layne Keller 2B, 2025
- Dylan Lahr 1B, 2025
- Eric Freetage, RF, 2024
- Kyle Benson, LF, 2024
- Wyatt Fether, DH, 2024
- Kyle Andrews, SS, 2024
- Kyle Carey, C, 2024
- Carson Pastorius, 3B, 2024
- Landon Thiel, LHP, 2026
- Landen Doll, LHP, 2025
- Jeffrey Oister, RHP, 2025
- Carson Pastorius, P, 2024
- Cole Baker, P, 2025
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: This group has pitched extremely well all season. This program is built on pitching and defense. We are getting quality at bats from the entire lineup which gives length now in our lineup. The role players are stepping up and becoming important contributors to the group.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: It was an amazing feeling to watch this group grow, handle adversity, and show grit and resiliency all season. And we had to do this to win a district title. This group was outside the fence watching in our youth program the last time we won a district title (2019)... so for these young men to put us back in the Sweet 16 is a major accomplishment.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: We are honored to represent our school, our program (2KLife), and our alumni in the regionals... We went through a stretch where some expected us to just be here, but we know how hard it is and how many quality programs there are in NEO. We are excited for the chance to play in the regionals again.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: First of all congratulations to all four teams for winning the District Title. This is a very good regional with deep lineups, athletes everywhere, and quality arms. These schools all have tradition-rich baseball programs with great coaching staffs.
#26 North Canton Hoover
Record: 21-8
Head Coach: Bryan Ashby
Final Ranking: No. 26
Preseason Ranking: NR
Postseason History:
- ?
Top Players:
- Mason Ashby, SS/RHP, 2024
- Jack Andes, CF/RHP, 2026
- Kyle Gudat, 1B, 2024
- Carson Dyrlund, RF, 2024
- Matt Brown, DH/C, 2025
- Jake Donaldson, RHP/SS, 2026
- Danny Holihan, 2B/RHP, 2025
- Carter Lukens, 3B, 2026
- Drake Cooper, LF, 2026
- Mason Angione, C, 2024
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We really like how our team goes about their business playing the game the way it should be played and respecting each opponent we face. They are having a lot of fun and enjoying each others successes!
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: Pure joy! Watching our players celebrate knowing the hard work they have put in throughout the year is rewarding and satisfying in itself. I know the goals this team has, and the players will be the first to say it, the job is not done yet, we look forward to a very competitive Regional Tournament.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: To be 1 of 16 teams still playing in late May is very special in anyone's season. We are excited for the opportunity to be playing and enjoying all the great baseball moments along the way with this great group of kids!
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: Wow, what a strong and talented group of 4 teams to compete with! Many talented players, great baseball programs and coaching staffs, what is not too like as a fan. Should be a fun regional with plenty of great moments to be seen and heard!
PBR: Anything else you would like to add?
Coach: We are honored to represent the city of North Canton, our school and community have been very supportive, and we appreciate them all. We look to showcase that pride and mutual respect in our play and pay it forward!
Region 2 - Grove City
Region Overview: Kyle Haag allowed just two hits in 6.1 innings for Olentangy Berlin, which got out of a first and third jam in the seventh to beat Pickerington North 1-0 in the district finals. Parker McDaniels had an RBI single in the first for Berlin, which edged Westerville North 3-2 in the semis behind a complete game eight-strikeout performance by Taylor Bednar. … Orange, last year’s state runners-up, beat Dublin Coffman for the third time in four tries this season, 6-3, to advance to regionals. The OCC Central Division champs edged Big Walnut 4-3 in the district semis, despite producing just three hits. … Hilliard Bradley has won three one-run tournament games, including a 1-0 victory over Grove City in the district finals. Bradley, a 22 seed, beat Newark 1-0 and Watkins Memorial 2-1 prior to the upset of second-seeded Grove City. … Parker Van Engelenhoven threw a two-hitter to send Olentangy Liberty back to the regionals with a 7-0 blanking of Dublin Scioto. Andrew Leonard had three hits for Liberty, winners of 13 of its last 14.
For Fun Prediction:
Dylan Hefflinger
- Olentangy Berlin over Olentangy Orange
- Olentangy Liberty over Hilliard Bradley
- REGIONAL CHAMP - Olentangy Berlin
Fan Vote:
- Olentangy Berlin over Olentangy Orange
- Olentangy Liberty over Hilliard Bradley
- REGIONAL CHAMP - Olentangy Berlin
#2 Olentangy Berlin
Record: 25-3
Head Coach: Mike Weaver
Final Ranking: No. 2
Preseason Ranking: No. 7
Postseason History:
- 1st district title in school history (school founded in 2018).
Top Players:
- Daniel Barreca, CF, 2024
- Lucas Patrick, SS, 2025
- Parker McDaniels, C, 2024
- Ascher Dent, 1B, 2024
- Kyle Haag, DH, 2024
- Maddox Pulliam, 3B, 2024
- Braylen Jehnzen, RF, 2026
- Baret Spencer, 2B, 2024
- Alejandro Aguilar, LF, 2025
- Taylor Bednar, RHP, 2024
- Jack Showalter, RHP, 2025
- Nick Gemienhardt, RHP, 2025
- Carter Elliott, RHP, 2026
- Carson Repp, LHP, 2024
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We are very connected and focused. Our guys love being around each other and it has been a lot of fun to watch.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: Just a sense of joy for our guys, they have been through soo much, since the end of last year, the way it ended, losing our field to a tornado and the expectations that were put on them from the outside. They have handled everything with a day at a time approach and have seemed unphased, and just focused on the goal of winning each day. One day at a time.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: It is exciting. We are done with school, so anytime you are still practicing, and it is summer, you know that your are having a special season.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: Kudos to the OCC Central who have 4 teams playing in the regional. Says a lot about that conference and the competition they faced all year. Coach Marker and staff do such a great job there, turning over a lot of the roster from the State Runner-Up Team and being back at Regionals. Coach Starling is a Hall of Famer for a reason. Everywhere he goes, they win, and they beat a really good Grove City Team. Liberty is playing great baseball at the end of the season, and they probably have the best pitching staff in Central Ohio and one of the top ones in the state. Whoever comes out of this Region will be tough to beat. Oh, and 3 Olentangy Schools. I cannot say enough about our Little League and Youth Programs. We are very lucky to get to coach young men who come to us with an understanding of how to play the game the right way, and high-end skill sets.
PBR: Anything else you would like to add?
Coach: We would like to thank everyone who reached out and helped out during the season when we lost our field from the Tornado. Offering field space, facility usage, Anthony Wayne with such a generous monetary donation. The fraternity of baseball coaches in Ohio his special, and we are very grateful for all the help. We would also like to thank our school district and Olentangy community for all the help they provided. We are so very lucky to have great families in our promgram. I tell our kids every day to thank their parents for allowing them the opportunity to live in and attend such a great school district. Lastly, the support from our Principal Mr. Todd Spinner and A.D. John Betz. It is unmatched. Mr. Spinner is leaving for a Superintendent position next year and I told him we are going to keep winning and keep him around as long as possible.
#14 Olentangy Orange
Record: 22-7
Head Coach: Tom Marker
Final Ranking: No. 14
Preseason Ranking: No. 9
Postseason History:
- 5th district title in school history
Top Players:
- Griffin Zavislak, LF, 2026
- James Wimsatt, SS, 2025
- Keegan Knupp, 3B/RHP, 2025
- Wyatt Lidke, CF, 2025
- Mason Woycitzky, DH, 2024
- Casey Covert, C, 2024
- Maverick Scholvin, 1B, 2027
- Reid Hemrick, P, 2026
- Zane Konczak, 2B, 2026
- Nick Liberati, RHP, 2025
- Reid Hemrick, RHP, 2026
- Spencer West, RHP, 2024
- Brock Kompa, RHP, 2024
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: The stylistic differences between this team and years' past is evident. It's no secret that we have a younger group, but with young groups there is a playful innocence and the ability to allow your passion for the game to lead you. These guys know what they're up against, but they don't flinch. They continually pour into each other, they prepare the right way, and they approach each day and each experience as an opportunity. Simply put, they "play for the kid".
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: I think anytime you can expose young people to experiences, it is huge for growth. Our guys were able to get their cleats in the dirt against some very good teams this year and I think this helped when it came to tournament play. By winning the districts, it affords them the opportunity to gain more meaningful experiences that will be huge for their growth as players and people. These kids are writing their own story and now they'll have a few trophies to add to the chapters. I'm proud of them for that.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: I think the question says it all..."able to play". We have to view this as an opportunity on many fronts. It's an opportunity to extend the playing career of five guys that are moving on at the end of this season. It's the opportunity to continue to write the story for the 2024 team. It's the opportunity to find out if we belong with the heavy hitters in Central Ohio.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: Three teams from the Olentangy School District and three teams from our division of the OCC. I think that's impressive. Our guys have a ton of respect for the talented rosters of all three teams. Dave Starling and Ty Brenning have had their teams in the regionals several times over and they are arguably the two best coaches in the Central District. This is Mike Weaver's first appearance, but his team is arguably the most talented team in the state, and they are senior laden. We've been told all year that we're young and not a good team, but that is okay. While we respect the three teams immensely, you cannot get caught admiring them. You have to compete.
PBR: Anything else you would like to add?
Coach: We say it every year, "You can get baseball anywhere," but what our supporters have created for our team and our program cannot be overlooked. The games take 28-34 days each year. They are a small portion of what is provided to our guys each and every year. I want to thank our supporters for what they do behind the scenes. They help our program use baseball as a platform to deliver life changing experiences. From the intentionality of our spring trip to the gameday experiences provided at our home games, to the fundraisers and social media posts...THANK YOU! Bobby D, Smoresy, and Potato Salad have been instrumental in pouring into our guys, as well. THANK YOU! And to PBR, Scott Reed, Michael Rich, Steve Blackledge, Frank DiRenna, and Ben Stroup, you have changed the landscape of youth sports by providing coverage and supporting our kids...THANK YOU,
Hilliard Bradley
Record: 16-15
Head Coach: Dave Starling
Final Ranking: NR
Preseason Ranking: NR
Postseason History:
- 1st district title in school history (school opened in 2009).
Top Players:
- Diego Contreras, LHP, 2024
- Ethan Williams, RHP, 2024
- Jimmy DeLuca, RHP, 2024
- Evan Rgalski, 3B, 2024
- Liam George, 2B, 2024
- Alex Koons, RF/1B/LHP, 2024
- Andrew Miller, SS, 2024
- Drew Barren, LF, 2024
- Johnathan Ritch, 1B, 2025
- Braylon Orton, UTIL, 2025
- Nick Barkheimer, OF, 2025
- Bryan Nashalsky, C, 2025
- Blake Furrow, OF, 2025
- Nathan Chittum, RHP, 2025
- Logan Minamyer, 1B/P, 2026
- Vince Navarro, 2B/SS, 2026
- Keaton Bowers, C, 2026
- Braden Hesson, C/OF, 2026
- Simon Custer, UTIL, 2026
- Caden Fabb, OF, 2026
- Sam Wendell, RHP, 2026
- Deagan Fought, OF, 2027
- Kierson Alexander, 3B, 2027
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: Pitching staff, the ability of our defense to play fast, and the team is mentally locked in and ready to play baseball.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: We were elated for the players, especially not ever having experienced anything like that. It is tremendous for the program. We are just thrilled for our players because they bought in and now they are reaping the benefits.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: It is an honor to get to this point. It is a tremendous challenge and our team is excited for that challenge.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: Nobody gets to this point by mistake. Every team that has made it so far is extremely talented and everyone is playing solid baseball.
Coach: This community at Bradley has traveled really well and have been very supportive of these young men. We have a close-knit athletic program. It is pretty special to see the relationships, camaraderie, and encouragement across all sports between the student athletes.
#36 Olentangy Liberty
Record: 20-11
Head Coach: Ty Brenning
Final Ranking: No. 36
Preseason Ranking: No. 8
Postseason History:
- 6th district title in school history (back to back 2023 and 2024).
Top Players:
- Brady Bonacci, RHP/OF, 2025
- Drew Hauenstein, LHP/1B/OF, 2026
- Max O'Rourke, RHP, 2024
- Andrew Leonard, 2B, 2025
- Aydin Deen, LF, 2025
- Parker Van Englenhoven, CF/RHP, 2026
- McCarfrey Tatum, 1B, 2024
- Nick Vittorini, SS, 2024
- Landon Hunter, DH, 2025
- AJ Clymer, RF, 2026
- Zack Meyer, C, 2024
- Ryan Stickel, 3B, 2026
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: After graduating 4 of our top 5 pitchers in 2023, rebuilding our pitching staff has been a top priority in 2024. Our 2024 staff gives us a chance to compete with anyone every time we take the field. We are excited about the gains all our players have made in the pursuit of excellence. This group has shown incredible growth and grit this season. The strength of this team is truly the team.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: Our players have an expectation of excellence, but it is never easy to win a district championship in central Ohio. This isn’t something we take for granted. Our players have worked extremely hard to get back to the regionals this year. Winning the district gives us the opportunity to continue doing the things we love!
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: It’s a privilege to be able to compete with the best teams in the state! We are looking forward to the challenge.
Region 3 - Bowling Green
Region Overview: Mana Bublick fired a three-hitter and did not allow an earned run in pitching Toledo St. Francis past Whitmer 7-1 in the district title game. In the district semis, Collin Hennessey tossed a four-hit shutout in a 4-0 win over Anthony Wayne, a state semifinalist team last year. … Perrysburg has outscored the opposition 24-2 in the postseason. Parker Faris allowed two hits in 6.1 innings of a 5-1 win over Sylvania Southview in the district finals, giving the Yellow Jackets their first regional berth since 2017. … Junior southpaw Brody Papay fired a no-hitter with 11 strikeouts to lead Avon past North Royalton 1-0 and with it a trip to regionals. Papay had a three-hitter in a 2-0 victory over North Ridgeville in the sectional finals. Avon, which started the season 6-10, rallied from a 6-0 deficit to beat Grafton Midview 13-8 in the district semis. Ian Cain, who scored the lone run of the game against North Royalton, had a two-run double to put Avon in front 7-6. Ryan Sudbrook had three hits and two RBIs. … Henry Slaby struck out 13 in a two-hit shutout of Medina Highland to send St. Edward to the regionals for the first time since 2015 with a 5-0 win. Brayden Page had two singles and scored two runs. St. Ed’s avenged a regular-season loss to Brunswick with a 5-4 victory in the district semis, scoring four runs in the sixth. Slaby earned the save in relief of winning pitcher Max McClellan, who fanned nine.
For Fun Prediction:
Dylan Hefflinger
- Perrysburg over St. Francis
- St. Edward over Avon
- REGIONAL CHAMP - St. Edward
Fan Vote:
- Perrysburg over St. Francis
- St. Edward over Avon
- REGIONAL CHAMP - St. Edward
#49 St. Francis de Sales
Record: 19-11
Head Coach: Roger Edgell
Final Ranking: No. 49
Preseason Ranking: No. 21
Postseason History:
- 9th district title in school history.
Top Players:
- Nick Hood, 2B, 2026
- Derek Dzienny, 1B, 2024
- Drew Tucker, SS, 2025
- Gabe Lisowski, RF, 2025
- Joey Meredith, LF, 2024
- Cooper Lajiness, 3B, 2024
- Brady Mitchey, C, 2026
- Mana Bublick, DH/RHP, 2024
- Colin Hennessey, RHP, 2025
- Drew Puckett CF, 2026
- Julien Coleman, RHP, 2025
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We have been executing our game plans on both sides of the game. All 21 guys have been locked into their roles and bringing the energy day in and out.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: Just so happy for the kids, especially the seniors. The seniors had to decide to play in the championship or go to Bacalourette. They stepped up and did the job to make it all worthwhile.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: We are excited about the challenge of regionals. To be in the final 16 teams in the state playing baseball is a big deal.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: Perrysburg has always been a high-quality program, coach Hall has them playing well and it will be a big task to beat them on Thursday. Avon and St Ed's have to be playing really good baseball to get out of their districts. All three teams have a bunch of really good players, whoever makes it out will definitely have a good shot of doing damage in the final four.
PBR: Anything else you would like to add?
Coach: We have played our best baseball down the stretch, beating 3 top 10 teams in the past few weeks. Our spring trip to South Carolina and CSHL schedule have prepared us for the tournament, just hoping we can keep playing and pitching well.
#21 Perrysburg
Record: 23-7
Head Coach: Dave Hall
Final Ranking: No. 21
Preseason Ranking: No. 18
Postseason History:
- 7th district title in school history.
Top Players:
- Connor Kessinger, SS, 2025
- Brady Zilles, RF, 2024
- Matt Hubbard, RHP, 2024
- Brayden Heitmeyer, 2B, 2026
- Landon Winters, LF, 2025
- Braxton Mefferd, CF/RHP, 2025
- Abram Hire, DH, 2024
- Trent Bezek, 3B, 2024
- Quinn Weber, C, 2024
- Parker Faris, 1B/RHP, 2024
- Tyler Palmer, LHP, 2026
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: The team likes each other and play for each other.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: Very happy for the players. They have worked hard and have been to Districts for 9 years in a row, but had not won a District since 2017.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: Feel very fortunate. The 2 NW Districts have a lot of great teams
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: St. Francis is a very well coached team who plays a great schedule. We scrimmage them every year and know they have hard working players. Both St. Edward’s and Avon have great programs. At this point of the season everyone is a very good team.
PBR: Anything else you would like to add?
Coach: This team has been very coachable. It's been a fun season.
Avon
Record: 17-10
Head Coach: Pat Scholla
Final Ranking: NR
Preseason Ranking: No. 26
Postseason History:
- 2nd district title in school history
Top Players:
- Ryan Sudbrook, SS, 2024
- Ian Cain, INF, 2024
- Brody Papay, LHP, 2025
- Jason Gillespie, INF, 2025
- Colten Fitch, INF/OF, 2025
- Joey Griffiths, RHP, 2024
- Andrew Falasco, OF/INF, 2025
- Robby Sykora, OF/INF, 2025
- Owen Melzer, OF, 2024
- Cole Ropelewski, OF, 2024
- Luke Holtzman, RHP, 2025
- Blake Elder, RHP, 2026
- Chris Egger, RHP, 2024
- Jensen Petro, RHP, 2026
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: Our Team is playing for each other over the last few weeks, which has allowed us to get into a groove. Our guys are living in the moment and not focusing on the past. When adversity hits, we aren't dwelling on it, we are trying to answer back.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: Proud of our team, this journey has started all off season. We got off to a slow start, but our guys battled back and you could see the excitement on every player's faces after the last out. Proud of our guys. Our guys are still hungry. Jobs not done.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: Total team effort to get to regionals. We will have a good week of practice to help give us the best opportunity to be successful. Our captains and leaders will have everyone ready to go.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: Every team is going to be a challenge. Every team is good. We will take it one pitch at a time.
Coach: Super proud of our group to get to this point. We live in a great community that is so supportive, so we know we will get that same support in regionals.
#37 St. Edward
Record: 18-11
Head Coach: Jim Clark
Final Ranking: No. 37
Preseason Ranking: No. 23
Postseason History:
- 11th district title in school history.
Top Players:
- Max McClellan, RHP, 2024
- Henry Slaby, RHP, 2024
- Dan Tome, SS/C, 2024
- Brady Barker, RHP/OF, 2024
- Karlo Hepp, DH, 2025
- Brayden Page, 2B, 2025
- Grant Lashutka, 3B, 2026
- Vince Waters, OF, 2024
- Drew Mahle, OF, 2024
- Jack Laux, C, 2026
- Langston Lucas, 1B/LHP, 2027
- Leo Bartolone, LHP/OF, 2025
- Peyton Beck, LHP, 2025
- Neil Rogers
- Brandon Florjancic
- Drew Jones
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: I like that the team is pitching well. And I like that the team is playing fundamental baseball.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: It was great to win the district championship and we feel blessed to be able to continue to compete.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: It is a great opportunity for our team to accomplish all of our goals.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: My thoughts really are on our next opponent Avon who is on a win streak and has an outstanding baseball team. We will need to be ready to play for sure. Perrysburg and St. Francis de Sales are outstanding teams as well.
Region 4 - Cincinnati
Region Overview: Moeller made it three straight district titles and 22 overall with a 13-6 win over Lakota East. David Hagen threw a perfect game in a 5-0 victory over Hamilton in the semifinals for the defending state champions, which started the regular season winning their first 24 games. … Mason Recker threw a six-hit shutout and singled in the lone run of the game for Vandalia Butler in a 1-0 win over Loveland. In the semis, Butler scored two runs with two outs in the top of the seventh to nip Fairmont 3-1. Hunter Richardson struck out 10 in a three-hit performance … Regional finalists a year ago, Elder came full circle this season with a 13-2 win over Centerville in the district finals. Elder, which has won 10 of its last 11, fell to Centerville 9-1 in the season opener. … Mason gets a chance to avenge a loss to Elder in the regional semis a year ago after beating Troy 5-0 for a district title. Jake Hanley threw a one-hitter and had two home runs for the Comets, which also defeated Troy in the district finals last year. Michael Bilo and Ben Hanley combined to throw a five-hitter in a 4-1 win over St. Xavier in the semis, with Jake Hanley hitting another long ball.
For Fun Prediction:
Dylan Hefflinger
- Archbishop Moeller over Butler
- Mason over Elder
- REGIONAL CHAMP - Archbishop Moeller
Fan Vote:
- Archbishop Moeller over Butler
- Mason over Elder
- REGIONAL CHAMP - Archbishop Moeller
#1 Archbishop Moeller
Record: 28-2
Head Coach: Tim Held
Final Ranking: No. 1
Preseason Ranking: No. 1
Postseason History:
- 22nd district title in school history
Top Players:
- Will McCullough, CF, 2024
- Luke Pappano, DH, 2025
- Matt Ponatoski, 3B, 2026
- Carter Christenson, SS, 2025
- Conner Cuozzo, 1B, 2026
- Forrest Day, RF, 2024
- Charlie Valencic, 2B, 2025
- Jovan Love, LF, 2025
- Griffin Booth, C, 2025
- Zion Theophilus, RHP, 2025
- David Hagen, RHP, 2024
- Kellan Klosterman, RHP, 2024
- Sam Scuglik, RHP, Relief, 2024
- Tyler Heflin, RHP, Relief, 2024
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: I like how they have dealt with adversity in some of our recent games. They bounced back from those situations and were more focused to get better and to make a tournament run.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: Winning the district title was a big moment. It put us in the sweet 16 and that’s always a big moment in a season.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: We are proud to be one of the four teams to play in the southwest regional. It’s going to be a great 2 days of baseball.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: The four teams in the regional have strong traditions and great players this year. It’s going to be very competitive.
#9 Butler
Record: 24-6
Head Coach: Trent Dues
Final Ranking: No. 9
Preseason Ranking: No. 14
Postseason History:
- 11th district title in school history.
Top Players:
- Hunter Richardson, LHP/1B, 2025
- Koby Dues, 3B, 2027
- Mason Reckner, RHP/1B, 2025
- Austin Flohre, RF, 2024
- Jackson Schilling, C, 2027
- Alex Ables, 2B/RHP, 2024
- Max Rubins, SS, 2025
- Mitch Strehle, DH, 2024
- Brody Miller, LF, 2025
- Sam Mitchell, CF, 2024
- Landon Case, RHP, 2024
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We have great team chemistry, our guys work very hard and are very unselfish and will do whatever is needed that is best for the team.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: We are excited and humbled to be in the regionals as there were a lot of good teams in our sectional and district.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: This is a very strong regional as I consider Moeller, Mason n Elder three of the elite programs in the SW district.
#18 Elder
Record: 22-8
Head Coach: Mark Thompson
Final Ranking: No. 18
Preseason Ranking: No. 12
Postseason History:
- ?
Top Players:
- Eli Roden, LF, 2025
- Jaden Walpole, SS, 2025
- Caden Ammon, P/RF, 2024
- Tyler Biggs, 3B/P, 2024
- Brayden Curlis, 2B/P, 2024
- Mason Schneider, CF, 2025
- Ben Weigand, RF, 2024
- Zach Walter, 1B, 2024
- Cooper Sandhas, C, 2025
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We lost almost all of our starters from last year’s regional finalist team. This year’s team started slow but is now playing our best baseball of the year. They have bought into our philosophy and are executing offensively and playing solid defensively.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: Very thankful. This year’s team had a steep learning curve. To come this far is just a testament to my assistant coaches and the job they have done with these guys. Our players have worked very hard to live up to expectations of past teams and that work is now paying dividends.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: We love the opportunity to compete in a very talented regional.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: Our regional is probably the most talented in the state. 3 of the top 10 teams in the state are in this regional. We are not ranked in the top 10 but are battle tested against great competition. Should be an outstanding regional.
Coach: My assistant coaches deserve so much credit for the job they do. I’m blessed with an outstanding staff who work tirelessly to develop our players to achieve to the best of their ability. We might not be the most talented team, but thanks to Tony Hesketh, John Dressman, Robb Thompson, and Brian Schweder, we will be ready to go.
#6 Mason
Record: 24-6
Head Coach: Curt Bly
Final Ranking: No. 6
Preseason Ranking: No. 2
Postseason History:
- 15th district title in school history
Top Players:
- Alex Koelling, INF, 2024
- Jake Hanley, 1B/RHP, 2024
- Mark Rutherford, 2024
- Drew Stevens, 2024
- Anthony Sulek, INF, 2024
- Casey Doner, 2024
- Brad Hart, 2024
- Hutch Crociata, 2025
- Drew Johnson, 2025
- Cade Landheer, 2025
- Liam Sander, 2026
- Bryce Brannon, RHP, 2024
- Michael Bilo, RHP, 2024
- Ben Hanley, RHP, 2026
Coach's Thoughts:
PBR: What are a couple of things you like about your team right now?
Coach: We play hard and with aggression. We've done a nice job of controlling the pace of games so far during the tournament and are playing with a lot of confidence right now. Finally, our pitching and defense have stood up well throughout the season and that has continued into the tournament.
PBR: Talk about the feeling when your team won districts?
Coach: It's always a great feeling to watch your players celebrate one of the goals of the season. Our guys have worked extremely hard to get back to a regional and I was proud to see them realize that goal Thursday night.
PBR: Thoughts about being able to play in the regionals?
Coach: It's always special. It's never an easy thing to get done, so to be one of the last 4 teams standing in Southwest Ohio is a great feeling. I look forward to watching our guys compete this week.
PBR: Thoughts on the four-team’s as a whole that are at the regional?
Coach: What a loaded regional. The three programs we are fortunate enough to be included with are all elite, tradition rich programs with unbelievable players and legendary coaches. I truly believe any of the 4 teams could win the regional. It's going to take great play to get out of Southwest Ohio.
PBR: Anything else you would like to add?
Coach: First, I'd like to thank PBR for the amazing coverage they provide for high school baseball. We are very excited to still be playing. We talk all the time about how the tournament is about earning more days to be together and the teams that advance often are the ones that desperately want just another day to be a team. I couldn't be more proud of our guys and look forward to watching them compete for the next day!
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