The crack of the bat is back! As the IHSAA baseball season gets underway, it's your turn to step up to the plate. We're excited to launch The Star Press Preseason Baseball Player of the Year Fan Vote, presented by IU Health. This is your chance to crown the player you believe is poised for a legendary season before the first pitch is even thrown.

The field is wide open this spring. Last year's standout, Shenandoah's two-way star Collin Osenbaugh, has moved on to play for the University of Louisville after a phenomenal season that saw him tie for the state lead in home runs while dominating on the mound. His departure, along with other graduated aces like Wapahani's Nate Luce and Delta's Zane Cline, means new heroes are ready to emerge from the dugout.

With regional champions like Shenandoah, Wapahani, and Delta all looking to defend their titles, the stage is set for a new generation of players to make their mark. We've compiled a list of 37 top contenders from our preseason watchlist, and now it's your call. Who has the potential to deliver clutch hits, game-changing pitching, and lead their team to glory?

Cast your vote in the poll below! You can vote as many times as you want before the poll closes at noon on Saturday, April 11th. Make your voice heard and help decide who starts the season as the player to watch. Let's play ball!