The Kansas sports community celebrated its 2026 All-Class baseball and softball honorees this week, recognizing the top players and coaches across the state’s divisions.
Pitcher of the Year: Drew Dechant
Drew Dechant of Hutchinson Trinity Catholic High School was selected as the Class 2-1A Pitcher of the Year after a dominant season on the mound. He will continue his baseball career at Hutchinson Community College next fall, where he hopes to contribute to the program’s next championship run. A three-sport athlete, Dechant also excelled in football and basketball, and he is slated to compete in the Kansas East-West Shrine Bowl Football Game in Emporia later this summer.
Coaching Excellence Recognized
The awards also highlighted outstanding coaching performances. Michael Stettinger and Rick Sabath earned 5A Baseball Coach of the Year honors, while Shawn Behr and Chance Gomez were named 5A Softball Coaches of the Year. In the 3A Softball category, Tyler Smith and Nick Hamilton received similar recognition.
Looking Ahead
Ty Schmeidler from Hays-Thomas More Prep-Marian was crowned Class 2-1A Player of the Year and has committed to play at the University of Kentucky. Meanwhile, Dechant’s upcoming participation in the East-West Shrine Bowl will give him a chance to showcase his versatility before heading to college. The recognitions underscore a vibrant pipeline of talent emerging from Kansas high schools.