The lohud Readers' Choice award, sponsored by White Plains Hospital, has named seven high school baseball players as this year's nominees. Online voting is open through July 8, giving the community a chance to recognize the top talent in the section.
No team from Westchester, Putnam or Rockland captured a state championship this spring, but the readership poll shines a spotlight on individual excellence, celebrating the players who have distinguished themselves on the mound, at the plate, or in the field.
Among the nominees, Devin Diaz of Iona Prep stands out as a senior catcher headed to Miami, while Julian Guzman, also from Iona Prep, is a two‑sport star bound for Maryland and a potential MLB draft pick. Kaleb Hetzel of Tappan Zee brings a dual threat as pitcher and first baseman committed to Stony Brook, and Gavin Keating of Pelham has excelled at first base, third base and on the mound.
Nick Masciarelli from Mahopac, a senior pitcher headed to Wagner, could hear his name called in the draft, while Quinn Miller of Clarkstown North, a senior pitcher and designated hitter committed to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, adds another layer of promise. Will Plunkett of Mamaroneck, a senior shortstop bound for Binghamton, was the sole New Yorker to earn All‑American honors from the American Baseball Coaches Association.
Community Vote and Future Prospects
The nomination process reflects a growing interest in high school baseball across the region, and the involvement of major brands such as Major League Baseball and the American Baseball Coaches Association underscores the pathway from high school to professional play. The winner will be featured in the upcoming all‑stars package, though the vote does not affect The Journal News/lohud's own all‑star selections.