The Times' preseason top 25 high school baseball rankings - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Eric Sondheimer

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Los Angeles Times has released its preseason rankings for the top 25 high school baseball teams in the Southland, setting the stage for an exciting 2026 season. St. John Bosco leads the list, bolstered by the return of star pitcher Julian Garcia and a strong senior lineup that helped them win last year’s Division 1 title. Orange Lutheran follows at second, despite having a talented roster, as their success in the playoffs will depend on finding reliable pitchers for complete games. Harvard-Westlake rounds out the top three, with improved pitching, solid hitting, and a standout freshman class making them serious contenders. Huntington Beach comes in at fourth, driven by the leadership of junior pitcher Jared Grindlinger, who is expected to lead the team to another strong season. Corona is ranked fifth, highlighted by the skills of outfielder Anthony Murphy, pitcher Mason Sims, and shortstop Trey Ebel. Sherman Oaks Notre Dame’s deep pitching rotation is a key asset at seventh, though their hitters will need to step up for them to reach their full potential. Santa Margarita lands eighth with Brody Schumaker’s defensive prowess and sophomore pitcher Tyler George’s rising talent. The rankings also feature several teams known for their strong pitching and promising young players. Royal (ninth) boasts a senior-laden lineup with pitchers Dustin Dunwoody, Dean Barkman, and Colten Rainer committed to major colleges. Cypress (10th) is praised for its pitching depth and tough schedule, while Sierra Canyon (11th) stands out due to its group of 90-mph pitchers and elite freshman Jordan Leon. Arcadia (12th) returns pitcher Damian Catano, who led the team to the Division 1 playoffs last season. Mater Dei (13th) is highlighted for its trio of rising stars: Ezekiel Lara, Brady Guth, and Owen Shannon. Aquinas (14th) is noted for its returning hitters, including Jonathan Tena, who excelled last year with a .480 batting average. Norco (15th) is recognized for its promising young players with experience, while Corona Centennial (16th) counts on Jaden Walk-Green’s disruptive presence in the outfield and at the plate. LA Mirada (1

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/13/2026