The annual South Shore High School Baseball Player of the Year award has become a focal point for the region’s emerging talent, drawing attention from coaches, scouts and fans alike as the 2026 season reaches its climax.
Mound mastery
Liam Barr, a senior captain from Weymouth High School, posted a 1.49 ERA with 79 strikeouts in 51.2 innings pitched and led his team to a win over the defending state champion.
Brody Beale, a senior shortstop from BC High School, had a .400 batting average with 19 RBIs and was named Catholic Conference MVP.
Ben Doak, a junior designated hitter from Milton High School, batted .408 with 29 hits and helped his team advance to the state final.
Danny Kenney, a senior pitcher from Plymouth North High School, recorded a 1.49 ERA with 65 strikeouts and was named Patriot League MVP.
Nate Killion, a junior outfielder from Archbishop Williams High School, hit for a .423 average with 30 hits and was a MBCA all‑star selection.
Mikey Kostek, a senior pitcher from Scituate High School, recorded 62 strikeouts in 42 innings and threw an 89‑pitch perfect game.
Sam Light, a senior outfielder from Hanover High School, hit .302 with 8 RBIs and led his team to their first‑ever state semifinal appearance.
Dean Madden, a pitcher from Canton High School, finished 7‑1 with a 1.36 ERA and led his team to an upset in the Division 2 state tournament.
Neil MacKinnon, a pitcher from Thayer Academy, recorded a 1.43 ERA with 50 strikeouts and was named ISL Pitcher of the Year.
Tyler Neville, a sophomore pitcher from Blue Hills Regional Technical School, went 7‑0 with 7 complete games and 71 strikeouts.
Tim Toland, a senior catcher from North Quincy High School, had 32 hits for a .395 average and led his team to an upset in the Division 1 state tournament.
Brandon West, a senior from Milton Academy, batted .413 with a .491 OBP and led his team to their first‑ever ISL tournament championship.
Voting for the Player of the Year is now open to the public, allowing fans to influence the final selection and celebrate the achievements of these young athletes.
The depth of talent across the South Shore this season suggests that whichever name ultimately receives the honor will be a deserving representative of a remarkable crop of high school baseball players.