The Louisiana Sports Writers Association recently released its Class 5A All-State rosters for both baseball and softball for the year 2026, with a significant representation from talented individuals across Northeast Louisiana. Among the distinguished honorees, Evie West, a rising junior from West Monroe, was celebrated as the Most Outstanding Player in softball. Her remarkable performance included a batting average of .505, contributing 19 home runs, and driving in 60 runs. Beyond her offensive prowess, West also anchored West Monroe’s pitching rotation, achieving an impressive 18-4 record with a 3.53 earned run average. Her contributions were pivotal in leading the Lady Rebels to become LHSAA Division I nonselect semifinalists.
In addition to Evie West's accolade, her older sister, Ava West, a rising senior and Georgia commit, also secured a spot on the Class 5A All-State team. Ava batted an impressive .463, with 16 home runs and 58 runs batted in. Other notable regional athletes making the Class 5A All-State selections included Bradyn Cupit and Jackson Lee, both recent graduates from West Monroe and Ruston respectively, as well as Aubrey Stoehr, a rising junior from the Lady Bearcats. These selections underscore the exceptional athletic talent emanating from the Monroe area in both baseball and softball.
West Monroe Dominates All-State Softball Selections
West Monroe's softball program showcased exceptional talent in the 2026 Class 5A All-State selections, with Evie West earning the Most Outstanding Player award. Her stellar offensive and pitching statistics were crucial to her team's success, leading them to the LHSAA Division I nonselect semifinals. This recognition not only highlights her individual skill but also reflects the strong performance of the Lady Rebels during the season.
Evie West, a formidable force on the field, demonstrated her versatility as both a power hitter and a dominant pitcher. Her .505 batting average, coupled with 19 home runs and 60 RBIs, solidified her status as an offensive leader. On the mound, her 18-4 record and 3.53 ERA underscored her pivotal role in controlling games. The inclusion of her sister, Ava West, with a .463 average, 16 home runs, and 58 RBIs, further emphasizes the depth of talent within the West Monroe squad, making them a standout program in Louisiana high school softball.
Northeast Louisiana Shines in Baseball All-State Honors
The 2026 Class 5A All-State baseball teams also featured strong representation from Northeast Louisiana, with several players from Ruston and West Monroe earning spots. Bradyn Cupit of West Monroe, an LSU signee, posted an impressive 7-3 pitching record with a 0.92 ERA and 100 strikeouts, while Jackson Lee of Ruston showcased his offensive prowess with a .450 batting average. These selections acknowledge the hard work and dedication of these athletes, placing them among the state's elite.
Bradyn Cupit's remarkable pitching statistics, including a sub-1.00 ERA and a high strikeout count, highlight his effectiveness on the mound for West Monroe. Jackson Lee's consistent hitting, marked by a .450 average and numerous extra-base hits, made him a key contributor for Ruston. Beyond the first-team selections, several other local players received honorable mentions, including JP Moak, Peyton Nations, and Tyler Roach from Ruston, and Ryder DeJean, Peyton Starr, and Kade Thomas from West Monroe. This broad recognition demonstrates the competitive strength and promising future of baseball talent in the Northeast Louisiana region.
