The 2026 All-News-Herald Baseball First Team celebrates the elite talent emerging from Downriver, Michigan, where high schools across the area showcased remarkable performances in batting, pitching and fielding throughout the season.
Offensive Standouts
Among the most potent bats, Cam Thorning emerged as the premier catcher, earning all-state honors with a .443 average and 18 extra-base hits. Rico Valdovinos, who shifted from catcher to infielder, posted a .400+ average, 19 extra-base hits and a 2.71 ERA, while Noah Banas thrilled voters as a pure hitter who hovered near .600, securing all-state recognition in Division 2. Lucas Farner anchored the leadoff spot for his squad, amassing over 50 hits, 33 RBIs and a 1.34 ERA, earning all-state accolades for his all-around impact.
Pitching Dominance
On the mound, Cash Moczydlowsky dazzled with a 0.44 ERA and 122 strikeouts, complementing a .491 batting line and 39 RBIs to claim all-state honors. Evan Bergdoll contributed a 1.72 ERA and a .500 average, helping Cabrini capture its first regional title in two decades. David Ochoa led Melvindale to a 20-win campaign with a 1.14 ERA and 74 strikeouts, while Keith Salisbury posted a sub-2.00 ERA and 37 strikeouts over 40 innings, underscoring a deep pitching talent pool.
Defensive Versatility and Speed
Dante Perry, a four-time all-state center fielder, combined a .400+ average with 40 stolen bases, showcasing elite defensive skills and speed. Tristan Spencer improved markedly, earning third-team all-area honors with a 1.60 ERA and a .352 batting average. Mason Marsee powered Allen Park’s D1 team with a 1.002 OPS and a 1.12 ERA in over 25 innings, while Marco Ocampo finished as Melvindale’s top hitter, posting a .400 average, 19 extra-base hits, 30 RBIs and 20 stolen bases.
Leadoff Leaders and Season Impact
Owen DeLano proved a relentless leadoff presence, batting .400 with 13 extra-base hits, 30 RBIs and 24 stolen bases, securing all-region honors in Division 2. Will Frost helped Trenton surge late in the season with a .379 average, a .913 OPS and a 2.36 ERA, while Josh Worley served as Anderson’s workhorse, finishing with a 2.00 ERA and 50 strikeouts in nearly 40 innings. The breadth of talent across the Downriver area underscores a deep well of baseball development, with many of these athletes expected to continue their careers at the collegiate level and beyond.