Ben Finney, a sophomore at Kouts, is a highly versatile player on the baseball field. Although Finney usually plays center field in travel ball, Jesse Overholt, a senior, occupies that position for the Mustangs. According to Kouts coach Jason Dorshorst, Finney is also ranked among the top shortstops in his state class. However, Kouts already has a strong lineup in that area with sophomore Billy Miller and senior Landon Garrett.
While Finney can pitch, Coach Dorshorst highlighted the depth of pitching options available to the team. Finney played second base for two seasons until Dorshorst shifted him to right field for the playoffs. “When we decided to put him in the outfield, we talked to him, and his response was, ‘I don’t think I brought my outfielder’s glove today, but I’ll figure it out,’” Dorshorst recalled. “It wasn’t like, ‘Oh,’ it was just like, ‘OK, let’s go.’ He went back out there and performed excellently. We could play him anywhere, honestly.”
Finney serves as the leadoff hitter for the top-ranked Mustangs, who boast a 31-1 record. They face No. 4 Northeast Dubois (23-5) in their second consecutive Class 1A state championship game at Victory Field in Indianapolis. Finney is batting .366, with two home runs, a team-leading eight triples, 23 RBIs, 51 runs scored, and 20 stolen bases.
In the semistate final against Fort Wayne Blackhawk Christian, Finney went 3-for-3 with an inside-the-park home run, two triples, four RBIs, and three runs scored, illustrating his talent and effectiveness. “I started off slow,” Finney admitted. “I was in a slump in the hitting zone, but recently, I’ve found my rhythm. My swing feels good now.” His determination to improve included taking more reps outside of regular practice.
Last season, as a freshman, Finney hit .412 with 29 RBIs, 46 runs scored, and 23 stolen bases. “There weren’t many expectations, so I wanted to prove myself to the coaches and my team,” he said. “I aimed to keep improving.”
Senior first baseman Eli Harper commended Finney’s hard work and energetic presence. “Ben is one of the most dynamic baseball players I know,” Harper remarked. “Even when struggling, he shows up. We need guys like him behind our seniors. He brings his energy to every game.” Harper emphasized Finney’s potential to develop into a great leader.
The Mustangs have won 31 straight games since their initial loss to Guerin, who will play for the Class 3A state title. The team clinched their first round-robin title in the Porter County Conference since 2004 and their first PCC Tournament title since 1998. Last year, the lack of seniors on the team led to a learning experience at Victory Field, following their loss to Indianapolis Lutheran. “We’ve been aiming for this moment,” Coach Dorshorst said.
Reflecting on the team’s playoff journey, Dorshorst noted, “After winning sectionals, there was no jumping or dog-piling, just a feeling of ‘one more down.’” He expressed a mix of excitement and focus, indicating that this year’s team has a stronger, more determined attitude.
Finney expressed confidence regarding the upcoming championship game against Northeast Dubois, who are making their state championship debut. “It feels good to be back,” he said. “We’re more confident this year, knowing what to expect,” highlighting the team’s improved mindset and readiness.