IndyStar Announces Co-Players of the Year
The Indianapolis Star has honored two senior athletes as its Co-Players of the Year for baseball, recognizing the outstanding performances of Gannon Grant from Center Grove and Aiden Smith from Shelbyville.
Grant concluded his high school career with an 8‑1 record and a 0.96 ERA, while fanning 94 batters over 58⅓ innings. At the plate he batted .343, drove in 27 runs, and hit five home runs, adding six doubles and a triple to his resume.
Smith, meanwhile, posted a .479 average, amassed 30 RBIs, and stole 15 bases. On the mound he went 7‑0 with a 1.16 ERA and 77 strikeouts in 42⅓ innings, shattering multiple school records along the way.
Favorite Highlights
Smith recalled his most thrilling offensive moment—a grand slam against Mt. Vernon—that capped a perfect game for his team. Grant’s favorite start came in the regional tournament, where he threw a no‑hit shutout and struck out 13 opponents.
Both players also expressed appreciation for the atmosphere at Victory Field, where Smith’s 9‑0 victory over a conference rival underscored the season’s excitement.
In a joint Q&A, the two seniors reflected on the grind of the schedule, the support of their teammates, and the joy of finishing their high school careers on a high note.