Ball State Baseball Adds Four Talented Recruits to 2026 Class
On the hunt for future success, Ball State baseball has secured commitments from four promising student-athletes for the class of 2026.
Meet the New Cardinals
Head coach Rich Maloney has welcomed two pitchers, an outfielder, and an infielder to the Cardinals family. Two hail from Indiana, while the other two are from Florida and Illinois.
“We are excited about this very talented group joining our Ball State Baseball Family. They’re strong academically and ooze positive leadership traits.”
— Coach Rich Maloney, Ball State Baseball
Ray Barwis | Lighthouse Point, Fla. | ESB Academy
- Outfielder, left-handed hitter
- National rankings in recruiting class by Perfect Game
- Student-athlete scholar, plans to major in communications with an entertainment and sports communication concentration
“An outfielder / left-handed hitter who is very athletic, has a strong skill set, and is hardworking with outstanding leadership skills and strong academically.”
— Coach Rich Maloney on Ray Barwis
Samuel Chin | La Grange Park, Ill. | St. Laurence HS
- Left-handed pitcher
- 2.20 career ERA, 4-1 record as a sophomore, helped lead St. Laurence to state title in 2025
- National Honor Society and honor roll member, plans to major in business management
“Left-handed pitcher with a lean frame and a lot of room to grow. Has feel for three pitches-will benefit greatly from our strength program.”
— Coach Rich Maloney on Samuel Chin
Trey Deckman | Columbia City, Ind. | Columbia City HS
- Infielder / right-handed pitcher
- First Team All-Conference as a sophomore and junior, honorable mention All-State as a junior
- National Honor Society member, plans to major in business management
“A shortstop with projection who is athletic and has good actions. He will benefit greatly from our strength program. Outstanding student!”
— Coach Rich Maloney on Trey Deckman
Kellen Thomson | Greenwood, Ind. | Center Grove HS
- Right-handed pitcher
- 9-0 record, 2.10 ERA as a junior, All-County honors
- Honor roll member, plans to study business administration
“A physical right-handed pitcher with upside and a strike-thrower with feel. Makings of a good changeup and sinking fastball.”
— Coach Rich Maloney on Kellen Thomson
FAQs
- Q: When will these recruits join the Ball State baseball team?
- A: They will join the team in the fall of 2026.
- Q: Are any of these recruits ranked nationally?
- A: Ray Barwis is ranked nationally by Perfect Game.
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on North Carolina’s draft prospects
looking for teams with deep drafts, which typically leads to more fringe prospects turning pro.
Stay tuned to 247Sports for more updates on the Ball State baseball team and their 2026 recruits!