The 2026 Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Baseball Team has been named, spotlighting some of the region’s top high school talent from Rogers and Bentonville. These seniors delivered standout performances this spring, with several already committed to play college ball at notable programs around the country.
Leading the group from Rogers is senior Andrew Blankenship, a versatile player who excelled both on the mound and at the plate. Blankenship hit .309 on the season, slugging two home runs and 12 doubles while driving in 19 runs. On the mound, he posted a remarkable 6-1 record over 46 innings, striking out 50 batters against a tiny 1.06 earned run average. He’s committed to continue his baseball career at Daytona State College, a move that highlights the growing reach of NWA’s baseball players.
Another senior pitcher from Bentonville making waves is Noah Bolinger. Bolinger impressed with 64 strikeouts in nearly 48 innings while maintaining a solid 1.90 ERA and a 6-1 win-loss tally. Bolinger’s offense was just as sharp, batting .340 with a home run, nine doubles, and 16 stolen bases to his name. His all-state honors and commitment to Tulane mark him as one to watch beyond high school.
Ty Burnham of Rogers signed with the University of Arkansas, a noteworthy pick for the Razorbacks given his two-way talent. He finished 2-0 on the mound with a 2.84 ERA over nearly 25 innings, striking out 46 despite some control struggles, evidenced by 22 walks. Burnham carried his bat well too, hitting .287 with five homers, seven doubles, one triple, and a team-leading 29 RBI. His all-state recognition reinforces his impact for Rogers this season.
Joining Bolinger in the Bentonville contingent is Cade Campbell, another senior infielder/pitcher who also performed at a high level on both fronts. Campbell’s pitching line matches Bolinger’s with a 6-1 record, 1.90 ERA, and 64 strikeouts over 47 2/3 innings. Details on his hitting stats were not available, but his dual-threat capability made him a key contributor.
The selection reflects a strong showing from the Rogers and Bentonville baseball programs, both of which regularly compete at a high level in Benton County and across Northwest Arkansas. These players represent the kind of local talent that keeps NWA’s baseball scene competitive and connected to larger college programs.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
