It's a great week for Ohio high school baseball, and the latest state rankings are here to prove it! The Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Association released its updated polls on Monday, and two local teams are sitting pretty at No. 1.
Centerville (19-2) has stormed to the top of the Division I rankings, jumping up two spots to claim the throne with seven first-place votes. The Elks capped off a perfect run through the Greater Western Ohio Conference championship by sweeping No. 7 Beavercreek (16-5) and No. 8 Springboro (16-5) to close out league play. It's a testament to their consistency and clutch performances on the diamond.
While Olentangy Liberty (20-2) actually received more first-place votes (nine to Centerville's seven), the Elks hold a 17-point edge in the overall voting, keeping them ahead of the pack. Archbishop Moeller (15-5) swapped places and dropped to third, showing just how competitive this division is.
Over in Division III, Butler (17-3) is holding strong at No. 1, and they're not alone. Four other Southwestern Ohio teams have cracked the top eight, making this a powerhouse region. Badin (17-3) stays put at No. 2, with Kenton Ridge (18-4) climbing to No. 3. Tippecanoe (17-5) moved up to No. 5, and Bellbrook (18-3) jumped to No. 8. Monroe (14-4) also makes an appearance at No. 17.
In Division II, Troy (19-1) is knocking on the door, moving up one spot to No. 2. The Trojans didn't receive any first-place votes—No. 1 Lakewood swept 19 of 20—but their impressive record shows they're a force to be reckoned with.
Division IV sees Urbana (17-5) as the lone local representative, checking in at No. 15. Meanwhile, Coldwater (17-2) leads the way in Division V at No. 2, joined by Arcanum (18-2) at No. 14, Versailles (15-6) at No. 15, and Anna (15-4) at No. 16.
Mechanicsburg (18-0) remains undefeated and sits at No. 3 in Division VI, with St. Henry (16-2) close behind at No. 5. Fort Recovery (13-6) is tied for 19th. Finally, in Division VII, Newton (15-3) climbs to No. 6, followed by Fort Loramie (14-7) at No. 7, Minster (12-6) at No. 9, and Russia (9-10) at No. 17.
Whether you're gearing up for the playoffs or just cheering from the stands, these rankings show that local talent is shining bright across all divisions. Grab your team gear and get ready for an exciting stretch run!