Midlands 2026 Baseball Player of the Year: Who’s in the Running?
The State Newspaper has opened voting for its 2026 Midlands High School Baseball Player of the Year award, with the deadline set for 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17. The winner will be announced the following day, Thursday, June 18, giving fans a brief window to make their choice.
Eight athletes have earned nominations after delivering standout performances this season. Colt Babic of Hammond leads a group that includes Mac Berry of Chapin, Rylan Bullis of Airport, Logan Crain of Lugoff‑Elgin, Tyler Hernandez of AC Flora, Sergio Melendez of Blythewood, Zak Perry of Gray Collegiate and Charlie Scott of AC Flora.
Babic batting .533 with 13 doubles, 11 home runs, 30 RBIs and 16 stolen bases, while Berry posted a 7‑0 record with a 1.83 ERA and 85 strikeouts. Bullis hit .358 with nine doubles, four homers, 29 RBIs and nine steals, and Crain combined a .392 average with 7 home runs, 33 RBIs and 18 stolen bases. Hernandez went 10‑0 with a 1.31 ERA and 74 strikeouts, Melendez hit .425 with 11 doubles and 27 RBIs, Perry posted a 7‑1 record and a 1.50 ERA with 75 strikeouts, and Scott batted .446 with 14 doubles, 7 homers, 35 RBIs and 26 stolen bases.
A Community Vote for the Region’s Best
The competition reflects the depth of talent across the Midlands, where high school baseball has become a focal point for local pride. Fans are encouraged to explore each nominee’s highlights and cast their ballots before the June 17 deadline, ensuring the award honors the player who has most impressed the community throughout the season.