The Daily Herald's 2026 All-Area high school baseball teams were announced this week, spotlighting the top talent from the Columbia region.
Gunner Skelton of Columbia Academy was crowned Player of the Year after a season that saw him bat .380 with 40 RBIs, 15 doubles, 10 home runs and 27 stolen bases, while going 8-4 on the mound with a 0.74 ERA and 96 strikeouts in 66 innings.
His all-around contributions helped the Eagles advance to the sectional round of the playoffs and set the tone for a year that would end with a historic championship.
Championship Triumph
Richland's Raiders captured their first TSSAA state title, a milestone achieved under the guidance of Coach Matt Sakowicz, who was named Coach of the Year for the season.
Sakowicz's leadership was complemented by standout performances from players such as Jameson Andrews, who batted .414 with 42 RBIs and five home runs, and Tucker Mayo, who led the team with 43 RBIs and a .370 average.
Other district honorees included Casen Springer from Loretto, named District 9-2A Pitcher of the Year after a 6-0 record and 70 strikeouts, and Caleb Carpenter from Independence, who posted a 6-3 record with a 1.85 ERA.
Jack Beck of Columbia Central earned District 12-4A Player of the Year after hitting .413 with 32 RBIs, four triples and 12 home runs, while Wyatt Ayers from Columbia Academy secured a DII-A All-District 3 selection.
The full list of awardees also featured Brooks Durham, whose .350 average and 31 RBIs helped Lawrence County reach the state tournament, and Lucas Penland from Independence, a First Team All-District 12-4A honoree.
Additional recognitions went to Bracyn Rose of Lawrence County, Mason Tidwell of Loretto, and Jack Emerson of Lawrence County, each noted for their offensive contributions and stolen-base prowess.
The Daily Herald congratulates all players, coaches and programs for their remarkable achievements this season.