Scarlet & Gray Trio Collect All-CHSL Accolades on Diamond

Three members of the Central Catholic baseball team earned postseason recognition from the Catholic High School League (CHSL) following the 2026 season.

Senior Draden Wardrop was named All-Catholic, senior Jack Zelmanski garnered All-League honors, and senior Ryan Dempsey was selected to the CHSL All-Academic Team.

Wardrop earned all-conference recognition for the second consecutive season.  After receiving All-League honors in 2025, he elevated his performance this spring to earn All-Catholic accolades.

A catalyst at the top of the Fighting Irish lineup, Wardrop led Central Catholic in several offensive categories. He posted a team-best .434 batting average, collecting 33 hits in 76 at-bats while scoring 20 runs.  He also recorded seven doubles, two triples, and a team-high 22 stolen bases. Wardrop finished the season with a .488 on-base percentage and a .618 slugging percentage.

Zelmanski earned All-League honors after putting together a strong senior campaign.  A steady presence both offensively and defensively, he batted .385 with 25 hits in 65 at-bats, adding 12 runs scored, two doubles, 12 RBI, and seven stolen bases.  Zelmanski also posted a .474 on-base percentage and a .446 slugging percentage.

Dempsey was recognized as a CHSL All-Academic selection, an honor that celebrates student-athletes who excel in the classroom while competing at a high level in their respective sports.  His selection reflects the commitment, discipline, and leadership he demonstrated throughout his academic and athletic career at Central Catholic.

The trio played key roles for the Fighting Irish during the 2026 season under the direction of head coach Jeff Mielcarek. Competing in one of the state's premier baseball conferences, Central Catholic finished the spring with a 9-19 overall record.

ALL-CATHOLIC
&Draden Wardrop

ALL-LEAGUE
Jack Zelmanski

ALL-ACADEMIC
Ryan Dempsey

& - 2025 All-League