A Season Defined by Excellence
Will Adams, a senior from Hoover High School, captured the prestigious Mr. Baseball honor for the 2026 Alabama high school baseball season. His performance was nothing short of dominant, as he batted .489 and amassed 13 home runs, 46 hits and 52 runs batted in, statistics that set a high bar for his peers.
The award was presented during the Alabama Sports Writers Association's 2026 summer conference held at Jacksonville State University, an event that gathers coaches, journalists and former players to celebrate the state's top talent. The ceremony underscored the blend of athletic achievement and community recognition that defines high school sports in Alabama.
Adams was not alone in being recognized. A host of other standout athletes — including Asher Doepel, Hunter Elmore, Garrett Reid, Gavin Lang, Addison Senn, Ethan Jones and Boston Brown — earned player‑of‑the‑year accolades across various classifications, reflecting a deep pool of emerging talent.
From High School to the Minor Leagues
The narrative of Alabama baseball does not end with the high school season. In 2025, Steele Hall of Hewitt‑Trussville secured the Mr. Baseball award after a .484 average, 14 doubles, eight home runs and 35 RBIs. Hall’s excellence earned him a first‑round selection by the Cincinnati Reds, and he now competes with the club’s rookie affiliate, the ACL Reds, in 2026.
Hall’s progression illustrates a clear pathway from high school stardom to professional play, a trajectory that inspires current award recipients. His presence in the Reds’ system also highlights the growing influence of Alabama‑born players on the national stage.
The 2026 ASWA Super All‑State team features athletes from a wide array of schools — Hoover, Hartselle, Hewitt‑Trussville, American Christian, Northridge, Deshler, Bob Jones, Collinsville, Westbrook Christian and Cullman — demonstrating that the state’s baseball excellence is spread across diverse programs.