Community Voices Shape the Award
The Star Press has launched a fan‑driven contest to crown the East Central Indiana Baseball Player of the Year, a title that reflects the region’s deep high school baseball tradition. Backed by IU Health, the poll will remain open until noon on June 25, allowing one vote per hour per device.
Voting rules require participants to submit a single ballot each hour from any device, a measure designed to balance enthusiasm with fairness while preventing ballot stuffing.
This year’s slate of nominees showcases a blend of power, precision and perseverance, featuring standout performances from across Delaware, Randolph, Allen and neighboring counties. Caleb Aikin of Daleville impressed with a .517 average and a 1.297 OPS, earning all‑Delaware County honors, while McCormac Anderson of Winchester posted a team‑high .425 average and a 1.164 OPS.
Pitchers such as Thomas Brooks from Cowan (7‑1, 2.55 ERA) and Ryan Burkholder from Yorktown (.408 average, 1.223 OPS) highlight the competitive depth, alongside hitters like Quentine James of Wapahani, who posted a .500 average and a 1.506 OPS.
Other notable contributors include Drew Fredenburg of Shenandoah, who led with a .403 average and a 1.440 OPS, and Everett Linn of Delta, who recorded a team‑best .397 average with a .989 OPS. Caleb Luedike from Monroe Central posted a .468 average and a 1.169 OPS, while Trey McIntire of Blackford hit .316 and logged a .883 OPS.
Athletes who have overcome significant challenges are also represented; Fletcher Kahle of Muncie Central, after two ACL surgeries, hit .286 with seven RBIs. Everett Linn of Delta added a .397 average and a .989 OPS, and Evan Zentz of Blue River Valley hit .423 with a 1.098 OPS and 23 RBIs.
The winner will be announced after the voting period closes, cementing the community’s choice as a benchmark for the season’s excellence and celebrating the remarkable talent that defines East Central Indiana baseball.