Kouts Sophomore Ben Finney Shines in Versatile Baseball Role

Ben Finney, a sophomore at Kouts, excels on the baseball field with his versatile abilities. While he plays center field in travel baseball, for the Mustangs, senior Jesse Overholt covers that position. Coach Jason Dorshorst highlights Finney’s ranking among the top shortstops in his class within the state. However, the team already has sophomore Billy Miller and senior Landon Garrett at that spot. Although Finney can pitch, the team has a surplus of pitchers. After two seasons playing second base, Dorshorst moved him to right field for the playoffs.

Dorshorst recalls, “When we decided to switch him to the outfield, he said, ‘I don’t think I brought my outfielder’s glove today, but I’ll figure it out.’” Finney adapted seamlessly and excelled in his new position. Dorshorst praises Finney’s infield skills too, noting his capacity to play anywhere on the field. Besides his defensive prowess, Finney serves as the leadoff hitter for the Mustangs (31-1), preparing to face No. 4 Northeast Dubois (23-5) in the Class 1A state championship. Finney boasts a batting average of .366, with two home runs, eight triples, 23 RBIs, 51 runs scored, and 20 stolen bases.

During a nonconference game against River Forest, Finney went 3-for-3, hitting an inside-the-park home run, two triples, and scoring three runs, contributing to a 13-1 victory over Fort Wayne Blackhawk Christian in the semistate final. Reflecting on the season, Finney said, “I started off slow but found my swing again outside of practice.” As a freshman, Finney hit .412 with 29 RBIs, 46 runs, and 23 stolen bases.

Senior first baseman Eli Harper describes Finney as an intense competitor. “Ben is one of the most electric players I know,” Harper said. “He works hard and brings energy, crucial for our team.” Harper sees Finney as the future leader of the team, stating, “He’ll become an even better player and a great leader.”

The Mustangs have dominated with 31 consecutive victories since their initial loss to Guerin, who will compete for the Class 3A state title. They clinched their first outright Porter County Conference round-robin title since 2004 and the PCC Tournament title since 1998. Last year, with no seniors, Kouts learned from their loss to Indianapolis Lutheran at Victory Field. Dorshorst mentions the team’s focused mindset this year, aiming to excel in the championship.

Finney expresses the team’s confidence, especially with last year’s experience. “It feels good to be back,” he said. “We’re more confident this time.” Knowing what to expect, the Mustangs aim to capitalize on their previous experience against Northeast Dubois, making their championship debut.