The Prep Baseball Missouri staff announced the finalists for the 2026 Player of the Year award, spotlighting the top high school baseball players across the state.
These seven athletes bring a blend of hitting prowess and pitching dominance, each posting statistics that have turned heads among coaches, scouts and fans.
A Closer Look at the Candidates
Kendall Hagedorn from Smith‑Cotton High School leads the offensive charge with a .519 batting average, eight home runs and 48 runs batted in, underscoring his impact at the plate.
Tyler Putnam of Battle High School combines a 1.34 earned run average with 81 strikeouts and a .486 batting average, illustrating a rare two‑way talent.
Nolan Sissom from Fort Zumwalt West adds a .411 average, four homers and 33 RBIs, while Rylan Sutton of Ozark posts a .457 average, 11 home runs and 34 RBIs.
Jase Wilkinson from Miller brings a 1.30 ERA and 133 strikeouts over 54 innings, highlighting his dominance on the mound, and Brady Yates from Glendale boasts a .457 average, 14 homers and 56 RBIs.
Brooks Zumwalt of Summit Christian rounds out the group with a .561 average, 14 homers and 48 RBIs, completing a statistical portrait of the finalists.
The Road to the Winner
The winner will be revealed on Prep Baseball Missouri’s social media channels in the coming weeks, building anticipation among the state’s baseball community.
The recognition reflects not only individual achievement but also the growing depth of talent across Missouri’s high school programs.