Naperville Central’s Grant Umbright Shines in Senior Season

Naperville Central senior Grant Umbright consistently exhibited a calm demeanor that provided reassurance to his teammates. Whether pitching, playing third base, batting, or running the bases, his composure was evident.

“Grant is amazing,” Naperville Central junior outfielder Jermaine Kenady stated. “We believe in him. He gives us confidence to be aggressive. When he’s on the mound, we know it’s time to go.”

Umbright earned the title of 2026 Naperville Sun Baseball Player of the Year, excelling in every area. Committed to John A. Logan, he was the pitching staff’s ace, achieving a 9-1 record with a 2.03 ERA, allowing just 31 hits, and striking out 71 batters in 48 1/3 innings. Batting third, he recorded a .324 average, leading the team with four triples, four home runs, 30 RBIs, and 36 runs scored.

Umbright’s influence extended beyond his statistics. Naperville Central, with a 31-10 record, won 15 consecutive games to reach the Class 4A state semifinals, securing a state trophy for the third time in program history.

During a Class 4A Lockport Sectional semifinal against Hinsdale Central, Umbright’s composure was tested when Kenady lost sight of a ball in the lights. “Grant is very calm,” Kenady noted. “He doesn’t let one play or moment throw him off. He told me, ‘It’s fine. I got it. Just go hit.’ His attitude is reassuring.”

Naperville Central coach Mike Stock noticed signs of Umbright’s current prowess last season. Despite challenges on the mound, Umbright maintained performance at third base and at-bat. “This year, he gained command. He raised the level of the team. It was a pleasure to see,” Stock remarked.

Umbright found his form during a successful spring break in Florida, where the Redhawks won four of five games. “We built something there,” he said. “We stayed hot from then on.”

Despite lacking Division I commits, the Redhawks exceeded expectations with Umbright’s leadership. He is the last of three brothers to play for the program. “Grant was great fun,” Stock said. “He has a great family. His teammates respect him and enjoy his company. It was enjoyable to watch his comfort grow this season. It became about team victories.”

The Redhawks developed a strong camaraderie throughout the season. “I’ve been on varsity since sophomore year, but this year stands out,” said Umbright. “Great group of guys—hard workers and supportive. The morale was high, which carried us through the season.”

Senior catcher Ashton Feldott, a first-year varsity player, adjusted to catching Umbright’s fastball, which reached 94 mph. “It was tough at the start, but now it’s fun. He always hits his spot,” Feldott said.

Umbright’s unpredictability and his change-up, slowing by up to 17 mph, puzzled hitters. “Hitters struggle under pressure,” Feldott explained.

Umbright also showed his batting skill against strong pitchers, going 3-for-3 against Minooka’s Zane Caves, a Michigan State recruit, while earning the pitching win in a 4-2 supersectional victory.

Looking ahead, Umbright anticipates that John A. Logan will focus on his pitching development. “I still have a lot of improvement ahead. I need to get bigger and stronger. I’ve been working in the weight room. They’ll help me develop further, and I’m looking forward to it,” he said.

Matt Le Cren is a freelance reporter.