The West Virginia Sports Writers Association has released its 2026 Class AA All‑State baseball team, honoring the state’s most impressive performers from the recent season. The announcement celebrates a blend of offensive firepower, dominant pitching, and versatile utility players who have shaped the high school landscape.
Captains Lead the Selections
Lanson Orndorf from Frankfort stands out as the team’s captain, a distinction that reflects both his leadership and his all‑around production. Orndorf batted .413 with a 1.119 OPS, drove in 27 runs, and added 16 extra‑base hits, while his pitching prowess saw him strike out 112 batters over 84 innings with a 0.58 ERA.
Standout Performers
Kadyn Hines from James Monroe posted a 1.34 ERA with 117 strikeouts and complemented his mound work with a .486 batting average, 36 RBI and 36 extra‑base hits. Zaden Ranson of Charleston Catholic hit .423 with 48 RBI and 17 doubles, while Brogan Medina from South Harrison posted a .448 average, 31 RBI and a 1.184 OPS.
Blake Jacobs from Frankfort contributed a .395 average and 23 RBI, and Jake Brown of Wheeling Central combined a .438 batting average with 32 RBI and a 0.378 ERA. Micah Cuthbert and Brady Williams of Independence each delivered power numbers: Cuthbert hit .484 with 38 RBI and nine extra‑base hits, while Williams posted a .455 average, 45 RBI, 14 doubles, three triples and seven home runs.
Brady Ernest from Wheeling Central batted .433 with a 1.256 OPS and 32 RBI, and Caleb Hall from Doddridge County went .500 with 49 RBI and 20 extra‑base hits. Jaxon Hare from Frankfort pitched 49.2 innings with a 1.55 ERA and 41 strikeouts, while Ivan Miller from Logan topped 100 strikeouts on the season. Reece Davis from Tyler added a .443 average, 16 extra‑base hits and 24 RBI.
Honors Across the Board
The depth of talent extended to the second team, where Degan Williams from Independence earned the captaincy for that group. Across the roster, players combined high‑powered hitting, reliable pitching and clutch performances, underscoring a competitive season for West Virginia high school baseball.
The recognition by the West Virginia Sports Writers Association not only celebrates individual achievements but also highlights the growing strength of the state’s baseball programs. As the 2026 season progresses, these athletes are expected to continue making significant impacts both on and off the field.