Chase Lockwood’s Journey from High School to College Baseball

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Chase Lockwood, like many seniors who contributed to Libertyville’s Class 4A state title victory, is transitioning to a new stage in life. His next chapter started promptly as he moved into his dorm at Illinois State less than a day after the championship game on June 13. Lockwood reflected, “It’s been a hectic time, so processing our achievements has been challenging. Now, focusing on college baseball, facing tougher competition weekly, is exciting.” Named the 2026 News-Sun Baseball Player of the Year, Lockwood’s high school accomplishments are unparalleled.

Lockwood set a team record with 30 career wins, culminating with a complete game in the 2-1 victory over Lane Tech at the Schaumburg Supersectional on June 9. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 180 pounds, his final high school season stats include a 12-1 record, 1.89 ERA, and a remarkable 69-to-10 strikeout-to-walk ratio across 70 1/3 innings.

In the Class 4A Hoffman Estates Regional championship against Stevenson on May 30, 2026, Lockwood’s performance was pivotal. As he states, “Improving daily and staying competitive has always been my focus. As a pitcher, confidence is crucial, ensuring I perform my best each pitch. The goal is always to win the game, not dwell on statistics.” Lockwood’s influence on Libertyville is evident through 92 wins, three North Suburban Conference titles, and two state championships during his three-year varsity tenure.

Libertyville coach Matt Thompson praised Lockwood, saying, “His statistics reflect his significant achievements. Whenever he pitched, we felt optimistic about our chances. His leadership will be missed, and the team greatly admired him.” Lockwood’s dual role also shone at first base, delivering crucial hits, such as a .340 batting average and 17 RBIs. Noteworthy performances include a two-run double in the semifinal against Mount Carmel and vital contributions to the state championship victory over Maine South.

Lockwood made a mark with his pitching abilities, renowned for consistently hitting the strike zone with a blend of curveball, slider, change-up, and a 90 mph fastball. His poise, evident since his sophomore year, came to light when he was promoted to the varsity team prematurely due to a teammate’s injury. Lockwood seized the opportunity with an impressive 8-2 record and a 0.66 ERA, striking out 56 batters in 52 2/3 innings. His junior year was equally stellar with a 10-0 record and a 0.82 ERA, including 64 strikeouts over 59 2/3 innings.

Reflecting on his growth, Lockwood noted, “I’m mentally and physically stronger now. Handling tough innings helps you learn. Easy games don’t encourage improvement.” One memorable performance was during the supersectional against Lane Tech, when Lockwood managed a bases-loaded, one-out jam in the sixth inning, maintaining a thin lead for Libertyville.

Lockwood’s competitive nature is closely linked to his older brothers, Cole and Connor, both of whom excelled at Libertyville and played together at Valparaiso. Cole, a freshman infielder, faced a season-ending injury, while Connor led as a senior pitcher. Connor commented on Chase, “He’s incredibly competitive, always striving to improve. His early success as a sophomore shaped him into the player he is today.”

Chase values Connor’s guidance, stating, “Connor’s advice is invaluable, especially about mindset. His insights on confidence have shaped my approach to pitching.” With Connor as a role model, Chase appreciates his resilience, especially post-Tommy John surgery, and views him as an inspiration.

As Lockwood prepares for the challenges of college baseball, he acknowledges his brother’s advice about resilience. “Facing grown men will test me,” Lockwood said. “But I am excited to begin this journey and embrace the challenges ahead.”