Scouting DuPage County baseball
The high school baseball started this week. Here’s a look at what to expect in DuPage County.
Addison Trail
Coach: Mike Kennedy, 13th season.
Last season’s record: 16-13 overall, 12-6 in the West Suburban Gold — 2nd place.
Top returning players: Joe Rohlfing, sr., IF; Matt Garcia, sr., C/OF; Casey Carlson, sr., OF/IF; Santino Dill, sr., 1B/P.
Key newcomers: Jonathon Valdez, jr., SS/P; Jordan Ciezobka, jr., OF/P; Eric DeBeau, soph., OF/P; Aaron Pastewski, soph., C/P; Robert Morales, fresh., P/IF; Louis Franczak, fresh., OF.
Season outlook: The Blazers graduated 14 seniors from last year’s team and return only 10 innings on the mound. This year’s squad features seniors Rohlfing, Garcia, Carlson, and Dill. “Even though we only have four seniors, they are experienced,” said Kennedy. “Rohlfing, Carlson, and Garcia all return with 50-plus at-bats last season.” Dill expects to anchor the pitching staff, with Ciezobka, Valdez, and Morales heading the supporting cast. “We expect the young guys to compete right away and prep for the conference schedule,” said the coach.
Benet Academy
Co-coaches: Jorge Acosta, first season; Scott Lawler, 13th season.
Last season’s record: 21-10 overall, 7-5 in the East Suburban Catholic — 4th place.
Top returning players: Jake Rifenburg, sr., P; Gino Zagorac, sr., P; Merrick Sullivan, sr., IF; Luke Wildes, sr., P/OF; Josh Gugora, sr., OF; Ethan Mendez, sr., IF/P; Anthony Filippo, sr., P; Tristan Lakis, sr., P.
Key newcomers: Luke Stachowiak, sr., IF; Brandon Sconza, sr., C; Aiden Mersinger, sr., IF/OF.
Season outlook: Last season, the Redwings earned the top seed in their Class 3A sub-sectional and captured the team’s fifth regional championship under the direction of Lawler with a 7-6 win over St. Francis. Benet’s season ended following a 5-0 sectional semifinal loss to Burlington Central. Rifenburg, a left-hander, and Zagorac figure to lead a pitching staff that includes Wildes, Mendez, Lakis, and Filippo. The Redwings will face Evansville Central (Ind.), Clarksville Academy (Tenn.), Noblesville (Ind.), and Fishers (Ind.) during their spring trip March 31-April 5.
Downers Grove North
Coach: Kyle Briscoe, eighth season (14th year in the program).
Last season’s record: 30-8 overall, 16-2 in the West Suburban Silver — 1st place.
Top returning players: Brady Schallmoser, sr., 1B/OF; JD Cumbee, sr., OF; Joah Ratio, sr., IF; Edgar Santos, sr., OF; Jack Romsey, jr., C; Luke Fordonski, sr., IF; Zack Ziroli, sr., P; Braylen Tomlinson, sr., P; Ryan Noonan, sr., P.
Key newcomers: Emilio Gandarellia, jr., IF; Colin Doyle, soph., P/1B; Drake Cozenza, jr., OF.
Season outlook: Downers Grove North returns Schallmoser, who batted .368 with 39 hits, including 13 doubles, 5 triples, and 3 home runs, while finishing with 37 RBI and 8 stolen bases. Cumbee (.333, 10 stolen bases) and Romsey (.300) also return for the Trojans, who graduated all-state backstop Jimmy Janicki (now playing at Troy). “We’re excited about the 14 seniors on the team this year, many of whom have experienced success the past few years,” said Briscoe, who guided the team to the Class 4A sectional finals before losing to Edwardsville. “Their leadership will be invaluable as we move forward. This tight-knit group is determined and ready to compete for another West Suburban Silver title and hopefully another run in the state playoffs.”
Downers Grove South
Coach: Darren Orel, 18th season (27th overall at DGS).
Last season’s record: 25-6 overall, 18-0 in the West Suburban Gold — 1st place.
Top returning players: Wyatt Wawro, sr., OF/P; Colin Mayer, sr., OF/P/1B; Owen Fudacz, sr., 2B/SS.
Key newcomers: Vincent Junkas, soph., IF; James Sobkowiak, fresh., IF/P; Nate Thurston, fresh., Utility; Aiden Kanazawa, jr., IF.
Season outlook: The Mustangs look to compete for their third consecutive West Suburban Gold title, and will rely on contributions from Northern Illinois University commit/southpaw pitcher Wawro, Mayer and Fudacz. Sobkowiak and Thurston are incoming freshmen hopeful of contributing on the mound, while Junkas looks to secure a middle infield position. The Mustangs will play 5 games in 4 days during their California trip (March 31-April 3).
Fenton
Coach: Brian Peterson, second season.
Last season’s record: 2-23 overall, 2-16 in the Upstate Eight — 10th place.
Top returning players: Luis Aguirre, sr., OF/P; Nate Dominguez, sr., 3B/OF/P; Owen Siekierski, sr., P/SS/OF; Michael Ramirez, soph., OF; Roman Chaidez, soph., 1B.
Key newcomers: Daniel Miguel, fresh., P/OF; Andrew Trimarchi, fresh., IF/P.
Season outlook: Aguirre, entering his third season as a varsity starter, batted .418 last season with 23 hits, 12 stolen bases, 10 runs scored, and 6 doubles, while owning a .475 on-base percentage. Dominguez stole 9 bases last spring, while Ramirez enjoyed a solid freshman campaign after being called up to varsity last season, hitting .480 with a .552 on-base percentage. The Bison begin UEC East play on April 7 at Glenbard East.
Glenbard East
Coach: Clayton George, fourth season.
Last season’s record: 19-13-2 overall, 13-5 in the Upstate Eight-3rd place.
Top returning players: Connor Peckham, sr., C; Ryan Frano, sr., 1B/P; Kondard Toth, sr., P; Brian Kud, sr., P/OF; Devin Kraft, sr., CF; Lucas Calderin, jr., RF/P; Josh Ziemer, jr., 3B/P; Horacio Solis, sr., SS/P; Paulie Steiskal, sr., 2B.
Key newcomers: Carson Piganto, jr., 3B/C; Nile Anderson, jr., P; Jayden Phistry, jr., P; Colin Laccount, jr., SS/2B/P.
Season outlook: “Our team is a good mix of returning players that have had varsity playing experience and newcomers who will contribute in many ways,” said George. “The strengths of our team will be pitching and defense.” George expects Toth (Morton College), Frano (Wisconsin-Whitewater), Kud (North Central), and Calderin to be mound leaders, while Peckham (Concordia-Chicago) returns at catcher. “The ability to stay consistent hitting will be the key to this year’s team,” said the coach. “We have a great group of players that play team baseball and should be able to carry this team.”
Glenbard North
Coach: Rich Smelko, 16th season (23rd season overall).
Last season’s record: 11-19 overall, 4-16 in the DuKane — 7th place.
Top returning players: Zach Larison, sr., OF; Jeremy Cooney, sr., P; Kanyn Shick, sr., SS; Dan Mahoney, jr., IF/P; Cory Truty, soph., OF/P; Brody Libel, soph., OF/P.
Key newcomers: Miguel Ibarra-Cantu, soph., IF/P; Filip Slomba, jr., IF/OF; Leo Macias, jr., C; Zack Pirok, jr., P/IF; Alex Arens, jr., P/OF; Kristian D’Alexander, jr., IF/P; Chace Hylton, soph., IF.
Season outlook: Smelko expects his team to be a young one this season. “Last year, we started two freshmen (Libel and Truty) and they performed better than expected,” said the coach. “With a year under their belts, we have higher expectations as they mature.” Cooney and Libel return as solid arms, and Smelko feels his team will have improved pitching depth this spring. Shick and Truty are defensively solid in the middle of the field, while Larison returns with 100-plus at-bats and is ready for a breakout season.
Glenbard South
Coach: Marco Eufrasio, ninth season.
Last season’s record: 17-15-1 overall, 12-5-1 in the Upstate Eight — 4th place.
Top returning players: Tommy Burke, sr., P/1B; Joe Demeo, sr., IF/P; Evan Bogue, sr., OF; Jacob Garbett, sr., OF; Nicky Louapre, sr., C/IF; Zane Damania, sr., 1B; Ben Heim, sr., IF/C; Gavin Pogorzelski, jr., IF; Tim Ewald, jr., IF; Hunter Fort, jr., OF; Evan Goldman, jr., P/IF; Joe Cunningham, soph., OF/C; Jacob Ruge, soph., P/IF.
Key newcomers: Dylan Taylor, jr., OF; Frankie Cassata, jr., OF; Cooper Langreder, soph., IF; Dom Jasper, soph., IF/OF; Lucas Wilder, soph., P/OF; Owen Marshall, soph., P/IF; Nate Melon, fresh., IF; Bryce Waichunas, fresh., C/IF.
Season outlook: The Raiders, who lost to Kaneland in the Class 3A regional quarterfinals last season, return varsity experience both on the mound and at the plate this season. “We also have a mix of athletic and talented newcomers who are looking to compete and get better every day of the season,” said Eufrasio. “We want to be playing our best baseball come playoff time.”
Glenbard West
Coach: Andy Schultz, 12th season.
Last season’s record: 14-22 overall, 6-12 in the West Suburban Silver — 6th place.
Top returning players: Henry Johnson, sr., P; Joey Lewison, sr., 1B; Eric Lowrie, sr., IF; Nick Pleasant, sr., P; Max Hetlet, jr., C; Jasper Reeves, jr., C.
Key newcomers: Max Bakken, jr., IF; Sam Barrientes, jr., P; Alex Crouch, jr., P/OF; Mason Flaherty, jr., OF; Nate Frazier, jr., P/1B; Charlie Harvey, jr., OF/C; Lian Hepner, jr., OF/P; Tommy Lewison, jr., P.
Season outlook: A few senior arms, led by Toledo commit Johnson, return alongside a bunch of quality junior pitchers rounding out what should be a solid, deep mound staff. Lowrie is one of the team’s top offensive returnees after batting .326 with 18 RBI last year as a junior. “He will be a key bat in the middle of the lineup,” said Schultz. “There’s a lot of talent on this squad. If we can put it all together, it could be a real exciting season.”
Hinsdale Central
Coach: Jason Ziemer, 12th season.
Last season’s record: 18-017 overall, 7-11 in the West Suburban Silver — 5th place.
Top returning players: David Leung, sr., OF/P; Jackson Clark, sr., P; Bryan Hernandez, sr., C/3B; Matt Houder, sr., OF; Hudson Brzozowski, sr., P; Alex Rivera, sr., P/1B; Dylan Kassab, jr., C; Patrick Connors, jr., OF; Billy Main, jr., SS; Riley Contreras, jr., P.
Key newcomers: Owen Sunderson, soph., P/IF; PJ Doppke, jr., 1B.
Season outlook: Six offensive starters return from last year’s team that lost on a walk-off to No. 2 seed Waubonsie Valley in the Class 4A regional championship. The offense figures to be led by Indiana commit Kassab (.387, 3 HR, 8 doubles, 27 RBI) and Aurora commit Hernandez (.351, 7 doubles), and will mix power and speed in hopes of scoring plenty of runs. Emory University commit Clark (3.52 ERA, 38 2/3 IP, 35 strikeouts) hopes to lead the pitching staff after enjoying strong outings against Glenbard West and Mt. Carmel last season. Strong senior leadership blended with a talented junior class has the Red Devils looking for their third WSC Silver title in 5 years.
Hinsdale South
Coach: Sean Beesley, third season.
Last season’s record: 10-22 overall, 8-10 in the West Suburban Gold — 4th place.
Top returning players: Brandon Elting, sr., P/IF; John Kadolph, sr., IF; Kaden Alavi, sr., 1B; Alex Dunwoody, jr., IF; Jack McDaniel, soph., C.
Key newcomers: Niko Villagomez, sr., P/OF.
Season outlook: The Hornets will rely upon depth and pitching to hopefully wear teams down this season. “We should have strong starting pitching and quality defense to win tight games,” said Beesley. Some younger players are looking to earn starting roles and grow in anticipation of a strong 2026 campaign. First things first — the Hornets aim to improve on last year’s middle-of-the-pack conference finish. “Our goal is to win conference and finish in the top half of the West Suburban Gold,” said the coach.
IC Catholic Prep
Coach: Dan Mustari, fourth season.
Last season’s record: 11-18 overall, 3-11 in the Chicago Catholic White — 5th place.
Top returning players: Max Russ, sr., P/OF; Jayden Dotson, sr., P/IF.
Season outlook: The Knights look to rebound following their inaugural season in the rugged Chicago Catholic White. Russ, a left-hander, pitches and plays in the outfield, while right-hander Dotson pitches and plays in the infield. IC Catholic Prep visits cross-town rival Timothy Christian on March 24.
Lake Park
Coach: Dan Colucci, 27th season.
Last season’s record: 28-9 overall, 15-6 in the DuKane — 2nd place.
Top returning players: Gavin O’Neil, sr., P/1B; Chris Ray, sr., C; Jason Keefe, sr., OF.
Key newcomers: Tommy Pruyn, sr., OF; Jack Gallagher, sr., SS; Max Mohapp, sr., P/Utility; Rocco Jones, jr., P/3B; Anthony Durava, jr., 1B; Max Alvarado, jr., OF; Robert Munaco, sr., 2B.
Season outlook: The Lancers graduated a ton of talent from last year’s team that advanced to the Class 4A sectionals before suffering an extra-inning loss to York in the semifinals, including hits leaders Derek Ittner, Jayden Patel, and James Kelley, along with second baseman Ryan Colucci, and lefty ace pitcher Dylan Bergman. O’Neil figures to take over as the Lancers’ No. 1 hurler after recording a 1.62 ERA as a junior. He will also occupy the middle of the lineup in the batting order. “We lost a lot of seniors from last year and look to retool with a new group,” said Colucci, who guided the Lancers to a Class 4A state runner-up finish in 2021. “Our defense should be solid. If our pitching continues to improve, we are looking at a solid year.”
Lisle
Coach: Luke Collins, first season.
Last season’s record: 6-22 overall, 1-13 in the Illinois Central Eight — 8th place.
Top returning players: Andrew Schroeder, jr., P/3B/C; Myloe Thordson, jr., CF/P; Hunter McGrath, soph., P/SS; Noah Nigro, soph., 1B/P/OF.
Key newcomers: JT Tumbarelli, fresh., IF/C; Anthony Clavelli, fresh., IF/P; Anthony Genco, fresh., C/IF; Theo Paley, fresh., 3B/P.
Season outlook: Without a senior in the program, the Lions are excited to build around a strong core of juniors and sophomores who already have valuable varsity experience. “We’ll also see several freshmen stepping into key roles, which is a great opportunity for them to develop at a high level,” said Collins. “Our top two arms, Schroeder and McGrath, will put us in a position to compete every time they take the mound.” Last season, Schroeder batted .342 while striking out 42 in 39 1/3 innings pitched, while McGrath compiled a 3.81 EREA in 25 2/3 innings. Thordson hit .294 last spring. “The expectation is to be competitive while continuing to build a strong foundation for the future,” said Collins.
Metea Valley
Coach: Stephen Colombe, sixth season.
Last season’s record: 11-19 overall, 4-11 in the DuPage Valley — 6th place.
Top returning players: Connor Lavery, sr., P/1B; Anthony Tardif, sr., P/OF; Anthony Cassano, sr., P; Matt Reilly, sr., C; Tyler Gluting, soph., P/OF; Caleb Allen, sr., P/OF.
Key newcomers: Ethan Singer, jr., P/3B; Owen Goeb, jr., P/OF; Carter Behrns, jr., P/OF; Kayden Nimer, jr., P/IF; Dayton Ramiscal, jr., P/IF/OF.
Season outlook: Lavery, who hit .265 with 2 home runs and 22 RBI last season, returns after earning All-DVC honorable mention accolades as a junior. Meanwhile, Metea welcomes back Tardif, who earned All-DVC honors as a sophomore before missing all last season with a torn labrum. Cassano led the team in innings pitched last spring. “We are really looking to having our pitchers leading our team,” said Colombe. “We return a lot of innings from the mound and got back an all-conference arm (Tardif).”
Montini
Coach: Eric Scott, second season (15th at the school).
Last season’s record: 23-13-1 overall, 10-3 in the Chicago Catholic League White — 2nd place.
Top returning players: Drew Church, sr., IF/P; Max Bell, sr., OF/P; Nick Sheeran, sr., OF/1B/P; Blake Heyer, jr., P; John Louise, soph., IF/P; Julio Ayala, soph., IF.
Key newcomers: Quin Paprockas, jr., C; Nick Kois, jr., P; Nick Mandra, jr., IF/P; Kameron Cox, fresh., IF.
Season outlook: Montini returns 5 starters from a team that won more than 20 games last year, led by Eastern Illinois commit Church (.283, 2 HR, .426 on-base percentage) and Upper Iowa commit Bell (.258, .388 on-base percentage, 1 HR) — both 3-year varsity starters. Sheeran (.313, 6 doubles, Louise, and Ayala also started last season. The pitching staff figures to be anchored by Heyer (7-2, 1.90 ERA, 55 strikeouts), who was the No. 2 starter last spring. Senior Chris Zayed, Kois, Church, Sheeran, and Louise will help on the mound. “This team is built differently from last year’s team, who could out-slug anyone,” said Scott. “We will rely on our strengths being pitching and defense. I would put up any infield defense from any team in the state against our infield defense. We will surprise some teams.”
Naperville Central
Coach: Mike Stock, 14th season.
Last season’s record: 17-15 overall, 9-6 in the DuPage Valley — 2nd place.
Top returning players: Chase Reeder, sr., P; Troy Kashul, sr., P/1B; Grant Umbright, jr., P/IF.
Key newcomers: Cooper Page, jr., P/IF; Casey Cooperkawa, jr., IF; Jermaine Kenady, soph., OF/C.
Season outlook: Kashul, a 2-way player, is coming off a solid junior season where he batted .429 with 42 hits, including 4 home runs, 11 doubles, and 27 RBI, while sporting a 2-2 mound record with 40 strikeouts in 34 innings. Reeder (3-4, 2.52 ERA) and Umbright (2-2, 3.52 ERA) tossed 72 1/3 varsity innings under their belts. “We are very excited about our top three returning pitchers,” said Stock. “We are hoping each makes a jump and enjoys greater success this season.” The Redhawks have plenty of available lineup spots. “With only three returning regular starters, we are looking forward to seeing how this competitive group comes together,” said the coach.
Naperville North
Coach: Jim Chiappetta, seventh season.
Last season’s record: 15-15 overall, 7-8 in the DuPage Valley — 4th place.
Top returning players: Zach Bava, sr., C; Matt Sonnenschein, sr., P/SS; Yash Desai, sr., P; Max Steele, jr., P/OF; Charlie LaScala, sr., 3B; Brandon Person, sr., P; Brady Marino, soph., 2B; Matt Cantrell, sr., OF.
Key newcomers: Aiden Kelly, sr., P; Charlie Madzinski, sr., Utility.
Season outlook: “Entering the season, our team’s biggest strength should be pitching,” said Chiappetta. “We return four pitchers who logged more than 20 innings and saw success.” That group is led by Sonnenschein (3-4, 2.61 ERA, 42 IP) and includes Desai (1-2, 3.51 ERA, 2 saves), Steele (3-3, 3.40 ERA, 26 IP), and Person (2-0, 3.36 ERA, 25 IP). “Offensively, we will be led by four-year starter and Illinois State commit, Zach Bava,” said the coach. Bava, a 3-time All-DVC pick, batted .398 with 3 home runs, 22 RBI, 28 runs scored, and 10 stolen bases last season. He is 21 hits shy of the school’s career record. Sonnenschein, LaScala, Steele, Marino, and Cantrell are expected to bolster the batting order. Sonnenschein (UW-LaCrosse), Desai (Wesleyan), Cantrell (Illinois Wesleyan), and Madzinski (Knox) are also committed to play college baseball next year.
Neuqua Valley
Coach: James Thornton, seventh season (11th at the school).
Last season’s record: 16-20 overall, 6-10 in the DuPage Valley — 5th place.
Top returning players: Mike Langan, sr., SS/P; Jack Martin, sr., P; Jorden Castillo, sr., OF/P; Owen Shannon, sr., C/OF; Kiet Truong, sr., IF/P; Carson Stevens, sr., 1B/C.
Key newcomers: Joe Barkley, sr., Utility; Jake Kuehl, sr., OF/P; Vinny Costanzo, sr., P/OF; Matt Cimino, sr., C; Andy Barkley, jr., OF/P; Colton Maita, jr., IF/P; Josh Repmann, soph., P/1B; Zach Chiz, soph., IC/C; Emmitt Briner, soph., Utility.
Season outlook: Langan (.309, 7 doubles, 17 RBI, 20 runs scored, 31 1/3 IP, 1-1, 3.57 ERA) and Martin (19 1/3 IP, 1-2, 2.13 ERA) figure to be the Wildcats’ top starting pitchers. Castillo, who hit .339 after being called up right before DVC action started last spring, batted .438 in conference action. Shannon (.385, .556 OBP) and Stevens (15 RBI) will add valuable senior leadership. Called up for the state tournament a year ago, Joe Barkley had a pair of hits and an RBI in the Wildcats’ 2-1 regional championship win over West Aurora. Barkley drove in 35 with 14 doubles at the JV level. His brother, Andy, was the JV team MVP after batting .393 with 42 hits and 16 RBI. “A healthy Martin will lead the charge on the mound, with Repmann and Briner sandwiching Langan, who will be moving from third base to shortstop,” said Thornton. Neuqua has won 3 Class 4A regional titles over the past 4 years.
St. Francis
Coach: Tom Ciombor, fifth season.
Last season’s record: 21-13 overall, 7-6 in the Chicago Catholic League.
Top returning players: Joey Gainer, sr., C; Zack Maduzia, sr., SS; Colt Armbrust, sr., P/1B; Ian Bagaconza, sr., 2B; James McGrath, soph., OF.
Key newcomers: Nolan Galla, sr., 3B; Peter Solloway, jr., P; Brayden Hobein, jr., P/IF.
Season outlook: The Spartans figure to be strong up the middle with the return of catcher Gainer, shortstop Maduzia, and second baseman Bagaconza. Gainer, who hit .383 with 3 home runs and 28 RBI last year, and Maduzia, who batted .356 with 20 RBI last spring, both earned all-conference status as juniors. Armbrust, who hit .366 last season, finished 4-2 on the mound with a 1.67 ERA, while Bagaconza batted .304 with 16 RBI. McGrath batted .300 with a pair of home runs and 18 RBI as a freshman on varsity last spring. Galla was a 2-year starter at Providence before transferring to St. Francis. Ciombor expects big things from his squad. “We’ve had 90 wins the last four seasons, and this might be the best lineup in that time frame,” said the coach. “We should contend for a Chicago Catholic League title.”
Timothy Christian
Coach: Frank Romano, third season.
Last season’s record: 13-13 overall, 7-7 in the Chicagoland Christian.
Top returning players: Peter Buikema, sr., C; Luke Canada, sr., SS/OF; Nolan Montella, sr., P; Gavin Bullard, sr., P.
Key newcomers: Eli Colegrove, sr., OF/C; Evan Colegrove, sr., IF; Alex Miller, sr., OF; Matthew Gritters, sr., 1B; Johnny Tragos, soph., P; Jonah Roemmich, soph., IF.
Season outlook: Buikema returns as one of the Trojans’ top hitters after batting .323 with 21 RBI a year ago, flanked by returning shortstop Canada. Gritters, Miller, and the Colegrove brothers are seniors expecting to receive opportunities to become full-time starters. Tragos and Roemmich are sophomores expected to play big roles. Timothy opens its season on March 17 against perennial power Nazareth, which won its first 37 games last year before dropping a 5-3 Class 4A sectional championship decision to Mt. Carmel. “We are expecting to have a strong season and aim for a conference championship,” said Romano. “We strive to glorify God in all we do on and off the field.”
Waubonsie Valley
Coach: Bryan Acevedo, 11th season.
Last season’s record: 25-10 overall, 11-4 in the DuPage Valley — 1st place.
Top returning players: Owen Roberts, sr., IF/P; Hiroshy Wong, sr., 3B/LF/DH; Josh Hung, sr., OF; Seth Gilliland, sr., P; Shane Torres, soph., C; Ryan Lucas, jr., IF/P; Connor Beren, sr., Utility.
Key newcomers: Cole Ruggeri, soph., P; Danny McGuigan, sr., P.
Season outlook: After finishing 12-18 in 2023, the Warriors more than doubled their win total with last season’s 25-10 record that included a DVC title and their first Class 4A regional crown since 2014. The return of all-state 2-way player Roberts certainly boosts the 2025 prospects. The Indiana State commit batted .452 with 10 doubles, 4 home runs, 26 runs scored, and 31 RBI, while going 10-0 on the mound with 73 strikeouts in 57 1/3 innings last spring. Roberts tossed a no-hitter in Waubonsie’s sectional semifinal victory over Plainfield North. UW-Whitewater commit Gilliland (2-0, 21 1.3 IP, 4.22 ERA), Missouri commit Ruggeri, and Aurora commit McGuigan bolster a solid pitching staff. Seniors Nick Lambert, Gabe Lunardini, and junior Lucas will also factor into the pitching plans. Offensively, Roberts will be backed by fellow 3-year starters Hung (.267, 20 RBI) and Wong (.325, 3 HR, 26 RBI). Torres returns behind the dish after starting 26 games as a freshman. “This will be the oldest team we have had in a few years,” said Acevedo. “Our experience and maturity should pay dividends as we enter the season with big goals.”
West Chicago
Coach: TJ Nall, ninth season.
Last season’s record: 17-10 overall, 14-3-1 in the Upstate Eight — 2nd place.
Top returning players: Zach Williamson, sr., P/IF; Tommy Doyle, sr., OF; Ashton Adaco, jr., P; Royal Day, sr., OF.
Key newcomers: Leo Volk, jr., P/OF; Sam Zalak, jr., IF/P; Alan Garcia, jr., IF; Liam Zbierski, soph., IF/P.
Season outlook: Coming off one of their best seasons in recent memory, the Wildcats will look to build off that success this season. Williamson, a right-hander, compiled a 3.13 ERA as a junior, while Doyle had 27 hits, 19 runs scored, 14 RBI, and 6 doubles. Day stole 7 bases with a pair of triples last season, and Adaco posted a 3.04 ERA as a sophomore. Last spring, the Wildcats contended for the Upstate Eight title, finishing ½ game behind champion Bartlett. “Like last season, our pitching and defense should set us up win some ballgames,” said Nall.
Westmont
Coach: D.J. Cocks, 14th season at Westmont (22nd overall).
Last season’s record: 24-10-1 overall.
Top returning players: Rocco Damato, sr., C; Briggs Templeton, sr., P/1B; Jerry Vasek, sr., P/DH/1B; Andy Pecard, sr., P/OF; Nathaniel Ollier, sr., P/1B/OF; Nikolai Baldwin, jr., P/IF; Ricky Yenkin, soph., P/OF; Jaxson Chinea, soph., OF.
Key newcomers: Alex Meyer, fresh., O/IF; C.J. Balcer, soph., P/IF.
Season outlook: Led by All-Metro Suburban Conference players Damato (College of DuPage) and Templeton, the Sentinels look to improve upon last year’s successful season that included their first Class 2A regional title since 2015. Damato batted .495 with 45 hits and 40 RBI last year, while Templeton hit .375 with 45 runs scored and 27 RBI. On the mound, Vasek (Milwaukee Tech) went 4-3 with a 3.76 ERA a year ago, while Yenkin was 4-1 with a 1.24 ERA. Cocks expects his team to compete for a Chicago Prep Conference title in its inaugural season, while hoping to repeat as regional champions with an eye on a sectional crown. Westmont will play several 4A squads — West Aurora, Harlem, Lincoln Park, Plainfield Central, and Reavis to be battle-tested for postseason play. “We have one of our deepest teams in recent memory with 15-18 players in different roles,” said the coach.
Wheaton Academy
Coach: Justin Swider, seventh season (11th overall).
Last season’s record: 31-6 overall, 12-2 in the Chicagoland Christian Conference-1st place.
Top returning players: Brandon Kiebles, sr., OF; Gino Spinelli, sr., OF/P; Dominic Murrell, jr., CF; Jackson From, jr., IF/P; Bryce Legel, sr., P/IF; Eli Tate, jr., C; Gunnar Fitzpatrick, sr., C.
Key newcomers: Charlie Scherer, jr., P; Dallas Johnston, jr., 3B.
Season outlook: The Warriors have won back-to-back regional titles (3A and 2A) and are coming off their first conference championship. They have enjoyed their two winningest seasons in program history — 29-7-1 in 2023 and 31-6 in 2024. “There is a lot of momentum to continue the standard that has been set the last few seasons,” said Swider. Kiebles, a starting outfielder the past 2 seasons, hit .280 with 5 doubles and 13 stolen bases last season, while Spinelli, also an outfield starter as a sophomore and junior, batted .242 with 5 doubles and 8 stolen bases in 2024. Murrell set the tone in the leadoff spot, hitting .408 with 44 runs scored and 14 stolen bases, while Legel went 5-0 with 39 strikeouts and a 2.33 ERA last spring. Tate (.312, 126 innings) and Fitzpatrick (.229, 111 1/3 innings) shared time behind the plate last season.
Wheaton North
Coach: Dan Schoessling, 25th season.
Last season’s record: 8-23 overall, 3-18 in the DuKane — 8th place.
Top returning players: Carter Johnson, sr., 1B/P; Cale Zoeller, sr., P/OF; Max Burke, sr., OF/P; JR Wilson, sr., OF; Alex Karlovitz, sr., C/2B; Blake Cesarone, sr., C; Reagan Barnes, sr., 3B/P; Luke Bellini, sr., 2B; Jake Williams, P/IF; Jacob Johnson, jr., SS/P.
Key newcomers: Nic Pisciotta, jr., 3B/CF; Alex Popham, jr., P/IF; Kyle Eddy, jr., P/1B.
Season outlook: The Falcons look to rebound following a tough 2024 campaign. Last season, Wheaton North started with a 5-4-1 mark before winning just 3 of its final 22 contests. However, 10 of those losses were by 3 runs or fewer, including a 2-1, extra-inning loss to state-ranked York in the Class 4A regional semifinals. Carter Johnson returns after batting .345 a year ago, while Zoeller tossed 36 innings as a junior. “I’m confident our lineup will produce, as we return a number of hitters that saw at-bats last season,” said Schoessling. “The pitching rotation is still to be determined with several players competing for time on the mound.”
Wheaton Warrenville South
Coach: John Scherrman, eighth season.
Last season’s record: 19-15 overall, 11-10 in the DuKane — 5th place.
Top returning players: Nico Olszewski, sr., OF; Drew Eger, sr., P; Mason Monce, sr., C; Ryne Adler, sr., 1B/P; Aiden Quartz, sr., OF; Luke Mantell, sr., IF/P; Jacob Conover, jr., IF/P.
Key newcomers: Reese Franks, jr., IF/P; Yiannis Bozonelos, jr., C; Blake Snyder, soph., IF/P; Clark Jensen, soph., OF/P; Josh Manriquez, soph., OF/P.
Season outlook: Losing a solid group of seniors from last year’s squad on the mound and in the field, the Tigers return some vital pieces in Northeast Iowa commits Olszewski and Adler, Wartburg commit Monce, Alma commit Quartz, Parkland commit Eger, and Conover. “We have three quality starters coming back on the mound in Eger, Conover, and Adler,” said Scherrman. “Offensively, Monce, a three-year starter, and Olszewski, a two-year starter, will give us a nice start at the top of our lineup. We have a hungry group of sophomores that could be successful at the varsity level.” The questions are whether the returnees continue as high-level players, while the newcomers step in and compete in the rugged DuKane Conference.
Willowbrook
Coach: Vic Wisner, 14th season.
Last season’s record: 24-11-2 overall, 12-6 in the West Suburban Gold — 2nd place.
Top returning players: Noah Martinez, sr., C/OF; Sam Marrese, sr., OF; Charlie Siegler, sr., OF; Ryan Bannon, sr., IF; Vinny Ippolito, sr., C/3B; Jake Bonino, jr., OF/3B; Jory Crocker, jr., P/SS; Noah Edison, jr., P; Bobby Biggs, jr., P.
Key newcomers: Luke Ranieri, jr., P/IF.
Season outlook: The Warriors have been a model of consistency, compiling 3 consecutive 20-win seasons, but are looking for their first Class 4A regional title since 2018. They welcome back a wealth of talent, including Martinez (.409, .548 on-base percentage), Marrese (.463 on-base percentage, 24 RBI), Siegler (31 runs scored, 17 stolen bases), Bannon (34 runs scored, 6 doubles, 3 triples), Ippolito (25 RBI), Bonino (.359, 33 hits, 4 home runs, 9 doubles, 30 RBI, 29 runs scored, 25 stolen bases), and Crocker (29 hits, 14 stolen bases), who led the pitching staff with 6 wins, a 1.33 ERA, and 78 strikeouts. Edison and Biggs combined for 8 victories last spring.
York
Coach: River Pitlock, first season (4th year in the program).
Last season’s record: 31-11 overall, 11-7 in the West Suburban Silver — 3rd place.
Top returning players: Josh Fleming, sr., IF; Drew Gami, sr., OF; Owen Chael, sr., C; Austin Grzywa, sr., OF; Jack Bodach, sr., P.
Key newcomers: Mason Shorter, jr., P/OF; Matt Young, soph., P/OF/IF.
Season outlook: Following back-to-back 4th-place Class 4A state finishes, the Dukes return 14 seniors, including 6 with 25-plus game appearances and 4 pitchers with 17-plus innings. Pitlock takes over at the helm for longtime coach Dave Kalal, who guided the Dukes to a 290-202-3 record over 15 seasons. “We look forward to building on the recent success of the program,” said Pitlock. The Dukes lost ace pitcher Ryan Sloan (selected 55th by Seattle in the 2024 MLB Draft) and centerfielder Chris Danko (Illinois State) to graduation but return standout shortstop Fleming (.342), Gami (.305, 14 stolen bases), Chael (.295), Grzywa (.280, 12 stolen bases), and Bodach (23 IP, 2.73 ERA). The Dukes have 6 seniors signed to play college baseball — Fleming (Grand Valley State), Luke Pieczynski (Missouri A&T), Ben Dizillo (Concordia-Wisconsin), Jacob Perry (St. John’s, Minn.), Ryan Lisowski (UW-Oshkosh), and Grzywa (Concordia-Wisconsin). “Solid defense, quality at-bats, and competitive pitches will put us in a place to be successful,” said the coach.