2018: A Look Ahead

2017 is in the rear view mirror and every year we like to put together a preview of sorts to the new year. As we kick off 2018, we take a look ahead at some of the top things to watch for in the new year. Players, storylines, predictions, you name it - here's a few thing to keep your eye on for 2018.

Another First-Rounder out of Wisconsin?

It has been a recurring theme in the Badger State over the last few years. In the last two years there has been much to talk about on the first day of the MLB Draft as both Gavin Lux (Indian Trail, 2016) and Jeren Kendall (Holmen, 2014) were first-round selections the last two years. Lux broke a nearly 40 year drought of Wisconsin high school prospects drafted in the first round and Jared Kelenic (Waukesha) is poised to be the third straight Wisconsin rooted prospect taken on Day 1 of the MLB Draft. Stay tuned for more on this storyline in June.

WIAA Allows Pitchers to Report Early

New for 2018, the WIAA implemented an early period for pitchers to report and workout with coaches one week prior to the first date of baseball practice.

Effective in the spring of 2018, spring and summer baseball coaches will have up to five days of pitching instruction during the week prior to the first date for baseball practice (Sun to Sat). Only one session per day per athlete is permitted with the maximum length of two hours per individual.

This new rule will allow pitchers more time to get their arms in shape prior to the season starting and being under pitch count regulations.

2021 Rankings

Keep an eye out for the next crop of prospects to come out of the Badger State as we will unveil our 2021 class rankings later this spring. Some of the top names in the class are already circulating, RHP Vince Trapani (Eau Claire Memorial) made the 2021 Overall Rankings earlier this winter, and could be the headliner for this class. Expect a release of Wisconsin’s 2021 class sometime in April.

More Dominoes to fall for WIAA Summer Baseball?

It was one of the top stories of 2017, but could be an even bigger story in 2018, as it seems to be a fast moving trend of more and more schools moving from summer to spring baseball in the WIAA. The “official” count of teams making the leap last year was less than 10, but there could be several more on the horizon with visions of playing their WIAA season in the spring of 2019. Keep an eye out this trend to continue in 2018.

2018 Showcase Schedule