A Season of Excellence
The 2026 Shreveport Times All-Area baseball team was unveiled this week, spotlighting the finest high school talent across nine parishes in northwest Louisiana. The selections, derived from coach recommendations and all-district honors, celebrate players who have excelled both on the mound and at the plate.
Kade Luker of Cedar Creek stands out as the Athlete of the Year. His 10‑1 record on the mound, 106 strikeouts and a 1.04 ERA underscore his dominance, while his .531 batting average, five home runs and 35 RBIs illustrate a rare two‑way impact. Luker’s all‑around performance earned him the top honor.
Other marquee names include Luke Delafield from North DeSoto, named Player of the Year, and Braden Jones, who captured Pitcher of the Year after a flawless 4‑0 record, 47 strikeouts in just over 31 innings and a 2.65 ERA. Jackson Lee of Ruston was recognized as Offensive Player of the Year after posting a .500 average, a .575 on‑base percentage and four triples.
Chad Yates, the driving force behind Cedar Creek’s 27‑7 season and a berth in the LHSAA Select Division IV semifinals, was honored as Coach of the Year. His team’s 4‑2 mark in District 1‑1A reflects strategic acumen and player development.
The All‑Area squad spans schools from Bienville, Claiborne, DeSoto, Lincoln, Natchitoches, Red River, Sabine, Union and Webster parishes, showcasing a deep talent pool that stretches from Minden and Logansport to Natchitoches and Haynesville. The breadth of representation highlights the region’s competitive depth and the growing prominence of high school baseball in Louisiana.