The 2026 Journal & Courier Big School All‑Area baseball team showcases the elite talent from Indiana’s Greater Lafayette region, honoring the players who defined the season across the 3A and 4A programs. Selections were based on individual achievements, including All‑State recognitions, All‑Star nods and dominant statistical categories.
Player of the Year and Offensive Standouts
Jake Winger of McCutcheon earned Player of the Year after hitting .413 with seven home runs, 20 RBIs and a .585 on‑base percentage. Alex Lopez from Frankfort posted a .476 average, 12 doubles, three triples and three homers, drawing All‑State honors for his offensive output.
Sammy Swank of McCutcheon proved to be a two‑way force, going 5‑0 on the mound with a 1.30 ERA and 56 strikeouts while batting .384. Twin Lakes junior Mason Brummett contributed a .418 average, 28 stolen bases and a 7‑1 record with a 1.44 ERA, underscoring his all‑around impact.
West Lafayette sophomore Calvin Snyder was named MVP after batting .462 with 28 RBIs and 16 stolen bases, while fielding at a .973 clip. Harrison senior Kaden Keys hit .465, scored 17 runs and stole nine bases, providing a spark for the Raiders' lineup.
McCutcheon’s Jonathan Riley led the team with 26 runs scored and a .369 average, perfect in the field, while Ben Pickering posted a .416 average with five doubles, six triples and 19 RBIs, earning academic All‑State recognition.
West Lafayette freshman Henry Dodds turned in a standout rookie campaign, batting .367 with 27 runs and 12 RBIs, signaling a promising future for the program.
Twin Lakes junior Cooper Dold batted .390 with six doubles, a triple and 20 RBIs, while also stealing 29 bases and scoring 43 runs, highlighting his speed and clutch hitting.
Harrison junior Chase Gothrup kept the Raiders competitive on the mound, posting a 1.20 ERA and 66 strikeouts despite a 2‑3 record, illustrating his resilience under pressure.
McCutcheon’s Rhett Clarkson hit .420 with six doubles, two triples and 15 RBIs, adding depth to the offense, while Keaton Miller of Twin Lakes went 6‑2 with 72 strikeouts and a 1.78 ERA, pairing strong pitching with a .333 average.
Carson Wagner, a senior from Twin Lakes, led the team with a .441 average, seven doubles and 27 RBIs, and added 15 stolen bases, rounding out a potent lineup that helped the region’s teams capture sectional championships and earn All‑State honors throughout the season.