2026 Sports in Kansas 6A Pitcher of the Year Zane Shaw, Lawrence Free State, Sr. After helping lead Lawrence Free State to the 2025 Class 6A state championship, Zane Shaw returned and delivered another dominant season while guiding the Firebirds to a 26-5 record and a state runner-up finish. The Nebraska signee excelled against what many consider the toughest conference and deepest region in Kansas big-school baseball. Shaw finished 9-0 with a 0.96 ERA in 58.1 innings, allowing just 28 hits and eight earned runs while striking out 97 batters and walking only seven. Opponents hit just .135 against him and he posted an outstanding 0.60 WHIP. Time after time, Shaw delivered in the biggest moments. His ability to command the strike zone, miss bats and compete against elite competition made him one of the most dominant pitchers in Kansas regardless of classification. A special shoutout also goes to Olathe West’s Max Hamilton, who was heavily involved in the final discussion for this award. The Oklahoma State signee turned in another outstanding season while competing in the loaded Sunflower League and one of the toughest regions in the state. Nolan Bell of Blue Valley also received high interest. For his dominant senior season, outstanding career and leadership of a state runner-up team, Zane Shaw is the 2026 Sports in Kansas Class 6A Pitcher of the Year. #sportsinkansas