The 2026 high school baseball season is set to kick off in the Peoria area, showcasing a competitive landscape with six standout teams. This group includes three from smaller schools and three from larger institutions, all aiming for success as they begin their campaigns.
East Peoria Raiders Seek Elite Eight Run
The East Peoria Raiders are gearing up for a significant season, hoping to make a strong push towards the Elite Eight. The team last captured a sectional championship in 1974, finishing as state runner-up in a single-class format. Currently, the Raiders are looking to end a five-year drought without a postseason plaque, with their last regional championship occurring in 2021. Under the guidance of coach Matt Plummer, East Peoria boasts a dynamic roster, highlighted by senior and Illinois State commit RJ Duncheon. He will be supported by another promising athlete, senior Auggie Lyons, who has committed to Illinois Central College. The Raiders will face Illinois Valley Central in their season opener on March 17.
Dunlap Eagles Aim for Consistency
The Dunlap Eagles are setting their sights on a third consecutive appearance in the Class 3A sectionals. Coach Eric Stone is just one victory shy of reaching 100 wins with Dunlap. However, the team faces a challenge with the graduation of key player Davis Weeks, now a freshman at Michigan State University and the 2025 Journal Star Player of the Year. Despite this loss, a solid core remains, featuring seniors Landon Gray and Simon Malcolm. Junior Ryder Rennette is anticipated to have a breakout season. Dunlap will open at home against Richwoods on March 18.
New Era for Morton Baseball
A new chapter begins for Morton baseball as first-year head coach Ryan Lindley takes over from former state champion coach Jesse Crawford. Lindley is counting on strong contributions from seniors Owen Adams and Cam Crawford, alongside juniors Hudson Lovell and Jude Parnham. Pitching depth could be a concern after losing staff ace Ryan Schaffnit to Bradley University. The team will rely on either Matt Sander or Colin Burns to step into that pivotal role. Morton will begin its campaign by hosting Normal West on March 16.
Tremont and IVC Look to Build on Last Season
Tremont is aiming for a deep postseason run in Class 1A after reaching the Class 2A Sweet Sixteen last season, where they faced a tough loss against eventual state third-place finisher Eureka. Coach Josh Hofer has lost several key players to college programs, including Cole Yates at Heartland and Griffen Landsverk at Carl Sandburg. Nevertheless, a solid group of returning college-bound athletes, such as Gabriel Perez, Sam Baas, Sam Griggs, and Brody Garceau, are poised to lead the team. Tremont will open its season on the road at Princeville on March 16.
Illinois Valley Central (IVC) is also looking to continue its tradition of success, having secured at least 20 wins for eight consecutive seasons. Coach James Sams has a standout player in Illinois State commit Kaeden Schatsiek, known for his impressive batting and strong arm. All-stater Dane Fagerburg, along with Sean Crowe and Layne Johnson, will contribute to IVC’s goal of advancing past the Class 2A regional semifinals, despite the graduation of key players Brady Johnson, Cleve Bizosky, and Brody Kenney. IVC opens its season against East Peoria on March 17.
As the 2026 season unfolds, the Peoria area high school baseball teams are set to showcase their talent and determination, making for an exciting season ahead.
