The Arizona high school baseball playoffs are heating up, and the talent on display from May 4-9, 2026, has been nothing short of spectacular. As we head into the final stage of the state tournament, The Arizona Republic has named its top 10 players of the week, and we want you to decide who deserves the No. 1 spot. Cast your vote in our poll before it closes at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 14. Print readers can find the poll online at azcentral.com/sports/high-schools.
Leading the charge this week are standout performances that have defined playoff baseball. In two 6A state tournament games, one player went 4-for-6 at the plate with a triple, a home run, four runs scored, and four RBIs. His impact was felt immediately: a two-run homer powered a 4-1 win over Kofa, followed by a 3-for-3 showing with a three-run triple in an 11-7 victory against Sandra Day O'Connor. That kind of clutch hitting is what championship runs are made of.
On the mound, another star delivered a masterpiece. In a 2-0 playoff win over Liberty, he pitched a no-hitter, walking none and striking out six. It's the kind of performance that leaves fans and scouts alike buzzing about his future.
The action on the field has been intense, with thrilling moments captured across the diamond. From Queen Creek's Jordan Ransom taking a powerful swing against Brophy Prep to Brophy pitcher Charlie Borchard strategizing with catcher Jonah Castle at the mound, every game has been a battle. Dana Howard's slide into first base, Brophy's Ryan Fesperman waiting for the throw, and Chris Sinacori's delivery from the mound all tell the story of a postseason filled with heart and hustle.
Key plays like Brophy's Dreson Ethier being called out at first for the final out of an elimination game—and Queen Creek's Andrew Smith delivering a strong start—have kept fans on the edge of their seats. Brophy's Isaac Holder rounding third base is just one of many moments that remind us why high school baseball in Arizona is so special.
Whether you're a player dreaming of the big leagues or a fan who loves the game, these top 10 athletes are the ones to watch. Vote now and help crown the player of the week!