Crestwood enters the 2026 season with something every program wants — momentum.
The Red Devils captured the Chagrin Valley Conference Valley Division title a year ago, going 9-1 in league play and finishing 10-10 overall. While the postseason ended earlier than hoped, the foundation for another strong season is firmly in place with six returning starters and nine lettermen back in the mix.
Now, the challenge becomes building on that success while integrating a wave of younger talent.
“We are very excited for this upcoming season,” said head coach Chris Stanley. “Returning six starters is a bonus; however, making sure guys are in the right spot is still a work in progress. The good news is we have depth in our freshman class, so while we will be young, we feel we can compete.”
Building Off Last Year’s Success
Winning a division title changes expectations — and Crestwood isn’t shying away from that.
“Last year’s squad accomplished quite a bit, and we are hoping to build on that success,” Stanley said. “While we fell short on our overall goal, we did achieve the (goal) of winning the division.”
That experience gives the Red Devils confidence, but also a clear understanding of what it takes to take the next step.
Pitching Sets the Tone
Crestwood’s success will start on the mound, where a deep and versatile staff gives the Red Devils options.
Senior Wyatt Januska and Kyle Shelhamer headline the rotation, bringing experience and competitiveness to the top. Jake Eyerman adds another reliable arm, while Chris Mory and Michael Kalista provide depth and flexibility. A group that includes Evan Rhodes, Michael McCulloch, and Sam Pausch will also be counted on to eat innings.
“Wyatt and Kyle will be our No. 1 and No. 2,” Stanley said. “They are both smart pitchers who are bulldogs on the mound. Jake will give us quality starts, and the remaining staff is all capable of eating up innings and challenging opposing hitters.”
Defense Anchored Up the Middle
Behind the pitching staff, Crestwood has the pieces to be strong defensively — starting with senior catcher Bobby Bradley.
A four-year starter, Bradley brings leadership and consistency behind the plate, setting the tone for the entire defense.
“Bobby will be a four-year starter and anchor our defense,” Stanley said. “He was exceptional behind the plate, and we are looking forward to more growth and leadership from him in his senior campaign.”
Up the middle, Mory transitions to second base, while the shortstop position will be shared by Rhodes and Shelhamer, giving Crestwood flexibility depending on pitching assignments.
In the outfield, Januska patrols center field with elite range.
“Wyatt is an absolute ball hawk,” Stanley said. “He is capable of stealing hits and closing down the gaps. It’s exciting to watch him patrol the outfield.”
Offensive Versatility
Crestwood may not rely on one single bat — but that could be its strength.
Eyerman steps into a full-time role at first base when not pitching, bringing versatility to the lineup. Kalista adds stability in left, while McCulloch is an intriguing newcomer in right field with a strong work ethic.
“MM has an incredible work ethic, and we are looking forward to see what he can do at the varsity level,” Stanley said.
The Red Devils will look to manufacture runs, string together quality at-bats, and capitalize on opportunities rather than relying solely on power.
Youth Movement Adds Depth
While Crestwood returns a solid core, its ceiling may be determined by how quickly younger players develop.
Freshman Niklas Galvin is expected to contribute in multiple roles, including third base, catcher, and the outfield — a sign of the program’s growing depth.
“Niklas will play some at third, spell Bobby behind the dish, and even get some outfield reps,” Stanley said. “He is a versatile athlete, and we look for great things ahead of the season.”
That flexibility gives Crestwood options as it works to find the right combinations throughout the spring.
Identity and Mindset
More than anything, Stanley believes this group is starting to define who they are.
“I feel that this team is finally adopting an identity that permeates the entire program,” Stanley said. “No one is above the program, no one is irreplaceable. They push each other and strive to make each other better.”
That culture will be key in navigating the ups and downs of the season.
What Will Decide the Season
For Crestwood, the formula is simple — even if executing it isn’t.
“Our challenges are going to be what every high school team faces,” Stanley said. “Can we pitch, play defense, bunch our hits, and leave it all on the field? We can do all of that and still lose, we just have to stay focused and trust our process. Compete every pitch, every play.”
And when adversity hits, the response will matter most.
“We have to be at our best, especially when we are down, and be able to answer and respond when the opponent has a measure of success,” Stanley said. “Never be too low or high. And get a little lucky…that never hurts.”
Outlook
Crestwood has the experience to contend and the young talent to grow into something more.
If the Red Devils can find consistency on the mound, lock in defensively, and continue to develop their identity, another run at the top of the CVC Valley — and a deeper postseason push — is firmly within reach.
Crestwood Baseball
