Chase Lockwood’s Transition from High School Star to College Pitcher

Chase Lockwood stands alongside his fellow seniors from Libertyville, who celebrated their Class 4A state title defense before embarking on new life chapters. Lockwood’s transition happened swiftly, as he moved into his dorm at Illinois State less than a day after claiming the state championship on June 13. “It’s been hectic,” he remarked. “I haven’t fully processed our achievement, but my focus now is adapting to college pitching, which means playing just once a week against stronger opponents.”

Lockwood, named the 2026 News-Sun Baseball Player of the Year, concluded his high school career with 30 victories, a team record. His final high school win came at the Schaumburg Supersectional against Lane Tech, where he pitched a complete game in Libertyville’s 2-1 triumph on June 9. As a 6-foot-2, 180-pound right-hander, Lockwood’s season statistics included a 12-1 record, a 1.89 ERA, and a 69-to-10 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 70 1/3 innings.

“Improving daily and competing fiercely has always been my goal,” Lockwood stated. “Confidence is key for a pitcher, helping me maintain my edge on every pitch. It’s about striving to win mini battles. I focus less on stats and more on winning games.”

During Lockwood’s three-year varsity run, Libertyville flourished, securing 92 wins, three North Suburban Conference titles, and two state championships. His impact was undeniable, earning all-state first-team honors twice and being named conference pitcher of the year twice. Coach Matt Thompson praised his contributions: “His stats reflect his achievements, and we felt confident whenever he pitched. Besides his skills, we’ll miss his leadership; the team admired him.”

Apart from pitching, Lockwood was an essential hitter, often playing first base. He hit .340 with 17 RBIs, shining in the state semifinals against Mount Carmel and the state finals against Maine South. “In crucial moments, Chase delivered,” Thompson commented. “He was our go-to hitter in the season’s latter stages.”

Lockwood’s pitching skills drew attention. He consistently threw strikes with a mix of pitches, including a fastball reaching 90 mph. His poise on the mound was notable since his sophomore promotion in 2024, following a teammate’s injury. That season, he achieved an 8-2 record with a 0.66 ERA and 56 strikeouts. The following year, he improved to 10-0 with a 0.82 ERA and 64 strikeouts.

“I’m stronger mentally and physically now,” Lockwood reflected. “I’ve learned to embrace challenging innings. Facing hardships is crucial for growth.”

One standout performance against Lane Tech highlighted his resilience. In the supersectional, Lockwood navigated a tricky bases-loaded situation, striking out two batters after an error. “I relish challenging scenarios,” he said. “They push me to compete harder.”

Chase is motivated by his older brothers, Cole and Connor, both former Libertyville stars. Connor, in particular, has been influential, offering pitching insights. “Connor’s advice and experience, such as transforming fake confidence into real confidence, have shaped my approach,” Chase shared.

Connor, an All-Missouri Valley Conference pick, also serves as a role model, having overcome obstacles like Tommy John surgery. “He’s shown me the importance of perseverance,” Chase noted. “Facing older and more experienced players this fall will test me, but I’m ready for the challenge. For now, life is good.”

Steve Reaven contributed this report.