Jaden Fauske of Nazareth Academy Named Gatorade Illinois Baseball Player of the Year

Nazareth Academy's Jaden Fauske has been honored as the Gatorade Illinois baseball player of the year, a recognition that highlights both athletic prowess and academic achievement.

While his on-field performance is likely to attract attention in the upcoming MLB Draft, Fauske's talents extend beyond baseball; he is also an accomplished chess player and a state scholar.

Fauske secured a starting position on the varsity team during his freshman year, contributing to the program's first state championship. He concluded his high school career with an impressive 136-21 record.

"Jaden is different. His at-bats are unique. The sound of the ball coming off his bat is distinct; the distance and height are exceptional," remarked head coach Lee Milano. "As a sophomore, he pitched 34 innings, allowing only two earned runs."

The versatile outfielder played a crucial role in securing back-to-back state titles during his freshman and sophomore years.

His left-handed batting skills resulted in a remarkable .492 career batting average, complemented by 12 home runs and 136 RBIs.

"When I'm waiting for my turn, I analyze the pitcher, but once I step into the box, my mind goes quiet," Fauske explained.

From an early age, Fauske has been strategizing against opponents, not just in baseball but also through chess.

"I placed third in the state when I was in fourth or fifth grade. People are often surprised when I share that," he noted.

Chess remains a hobby for Fauske, who believes it enhances his performance on the diamond.

"Every at-bat feels like a chess match against the pitcher; predicting their moves based on the count is essential," he said.

Does he challenge teammates to chess matches?

"Honestly, they don’t pose much of a challenge, but we do play occasionally," he admitted.

Fauske now faces a pivotal decision: continue his career at national champion LSU or enter the MLB Draft as a projected first-round pick.

"Pursuing my dream of playing in the big leagues is exciting, whether I choose LSU or the draft," he said.

As he looks ahead, Fauske cherishes the memories made at Nazareth Academy.

"I will miss playing for Coach Milano and my teammates, wearing the Nazareth uniform," he reflected.

However, there’s one aspect his coach might not miss.

"Jaden hits 8 to 10 home runs daily, often sending balls into the woods behind our field. He owes us about 600 baseballs," Milano joked. "When he signs that pro contract, returning a few dozen balls to the program would be appreciated."

This could be an ongoing issue for Fauske as he progresses in his career.