A Season of Excellence Across the Herald-News Area
The 2026 Herald-News All-Area Baseball Team was unveiled this week, spotlighting the region’s most dominant performers from a dozen high schools. The selections reflect a blend of power, precision and poise that defined the 2025 campaign.
Zane Caves of Minooka earned the prestigious Player of the Year award after posting a 2.56 ERA and a 1.4 WHIP over 63 innings, while striking out 76 batters. His consistency on the mound set the tone for a team that celebrated both pitching and hitting excellence.
Brady Kozlowski, also from Minooka, slashed .377/.500/.798 with 11 homers and 39 RBIs, underscoring a breakout year for the young slugger. Meanwhile, Sam Atkinson of Providence posted a .443 average and a perfect fielding percentage, and Jeremy Thompson of Romeoville compiled a .491/.574/1.000 line with 41 RBIs and 34 runs scored.
Cannon Madej of Lemont contributed a .340/.479/.479 slash while also delivering 92 strikeouts from the mound, illustrating his dual-role impact. Trace Schaaf of Lockport posted a 1.69 ERA and a 1.188 WHIP across 49.2 innings, and Michael Pettit of Lincoln-Way West hit .404 with a 1.212 OPS and 34 RBIs.
Rocco Triolo of Lincoln-Way East added a .410 average, a .810 slugging percentage and 35 RBIs, while Cole Sisti from Plainfield Central went 8-0 on the mound with a 2.11 ERA and a 1.32 WHIP. Their performances helped shape a second team and a list of honorable mentions that highlighted the depth of talent across the area.
The roster draws talent from schools in Joliet, Wilmington, Coal City, Dwight, Bolingbrook and beyond, reflecting a competitive landscape that stretches from the suburbs to the river valleys. Community leaders say the recognition will inspire younger players and bolster baseball programs throughout the region.
Standout Statistics
Beyond the headline names, the numbers tell a story of balance. Pitchers combined for sub-2.00 ERAs in many cases, while hitters posted on-base percentages above .400, indicating disciplined approaches at the plate. The blend of power and contact skills suggests a fertile environment for college recruiters scouting the next generation.