Commitments Signal Future Stars
Tyler Bilka and Riley Brooks, two of the most dominant arms from Colonie High School’s 2026 baseball squad, have each secured spots in Division I programs within the Metro Conference.
Bilka, the Suburban Council’s 2026 Pitcher of the Year, will continue his career at Siena University, where he plans to major in biology, while Brooks, a versatile reliever and closer, has committed to Quinnipiac University to study exercise science.
Both pitchers helped the Wolf Pack reach the sectional finals for the second straight year, falling just short against Saratoga Springs in the championship series of 2025 and 2026.
Season Highlights
Coach Mike Morrissey praised the duo for their relentless work ethic, noting that Bilka finished the season with a 6‑2 record, a 0.83 ERA and 49 strikeouts over 50 ⅔ innings, including a two‑hitter against Saratoga Springs.
Brooks, who posted a 3‑2 record with four saves and a 0.40 ERA, was lauded for his ability to handle high‑pressure relief situations and for delivering a two‑hitter against the same Saratoga Springs lineup.
Looking Ahead
Both athletes expressed excitement about extending their baseball journeys at the collegiate level in 2027, citing the chance to compete in the Metro Conference as a key factor.
Their commitments also reflect a broader trend of Capital Region talent staying local to pursue top‑tier education and athletics, a pattern that bodes well for the future of high school baseball in the region.