James Tronstein, a senior at Harvard-Westlake School, has been crowned the 2026 Daily News All-Area Player of the Year, a distinction that caps a spring in which he batted .584 and drove in 28 runs while stealing 15 bases.
His all-around production — 51 hits, 10 doubles, 10 home runs and 45 runs scored — helped the Warriors capture the Mission League title and earn a berth in the CIF Southern Section Division 1 playoffs.
Colleges and professional scouts alike have taken note, projecting the shortstop as the No. 48 overall prospect in the upcoming 2026 MLB Draft, a placement that could see him selected among the first two rounds.
Other standout performers
Sophomore pitcher Carlos Acuna from Birmingham Charter posted an 11‑0 record with a 1.19 ERA and 109 strikeouts, earning co‑MVP honors in the West Valley League alongside teammate Aiden Martinez.
Freshman Louis Lappe, also of Harvard-Westlake, batted .333 with 31 hits and added 24 RBIs, 14 runs scored, five doubles, six stolen bases and a home run in 28 games, drawing interest from several top college programs.
Coaching excellence
Angel Espindola, the coach of Verdugo Hills, guided his squad to an LA City Section Division I crown and was recognized as Coach of the Year for his leadership.
The 2026 MLB Draft is scheduled for July 11‑13, a timeline that will determine the next chapter for Tronstein and his peers.