Versatile Ben Finney Shines as Kouts Mustangs Aim for State Championship

Kouts sophomore Ben Finney displays exceptional versatility on the baseball field. Though he plays center field for travel ball, senior Jesse Overholt occupies that position for the Mustangs. According to coach Jason Dorshorst, Finney ranks among the top shortstops in his class, yet the team already has sophomore Billy Miller and senior Landon Garrett in those roles. Finney can pitch, but Dorshorst remarks, we have so many arms. Consequently, Finney played second base for two seasons before moving to right field for the playoffs.

When asked to switch to the outfield, Finney responded with readiness and adaptability. Dorshorst recalls him saying, I don’t think I brought my outfielder’s glove today, but I’ll figure it out, demonstrating his quick adjustment. As a testament to his flexibility, Finney continues to excel wherever he plays, leading off for the top-ranked Mustangs (31-1). With remarkable stats, he bats .366 with two homers, a team-high eight triples, 23 RBIs, 51 runs scored, and 20 stolen bases.

Finney’s recent performance was exceptional. Against Fort Wayne Blackhawk Christian in the semistate final, he went 3-for-3 with an inside-the-park homer, two triples, four RBIs, and three runs scored, leading to a 13-1 victory. Reflecting on his initial struggles, Finney stated, I started off slow… But recently I’ve kind of found myself. My swing’s coming back to me, and I feel good now. He attributes his comeback to taking extra swings outside of practice.

As a freshman, Finney hit .412 with 29 RBIs, 46 runs scored, and 23 stolen bases. His drive to prove himself to coaches and teammates was unwavering. Senior first baseman Eli Harper praises Finney as one of the most energetic players he knows. Harper appreciates Finney’s hard work and positive energy, which he brings to every game. Even when he’s struggling, he shows up, Harper notes, lauding Finney’s impact on the team.

The Mustangs have achieved a 31-game winning streak, starting after a loss to Guerin, who now competes for the Class 3A state title. Along their journey, they secured their first outright Porter County Conference round-robin title since 2004 and their first PCC Tournament title since 1998. Last year’s experience at Victory Field taught the team valuable lessons following their loss to Indianapolis Lutheran.

Dorshorst observed a distinct focus in the team this year. Following their sectional win, he noted the lack of wild celebrations, as players approached the journey with seriousness. Confidence has soared, fortified by last year’s lessons. Finney, reflecting on their imminent match against Northeast Dubois, expresses, It feels good to be back. We’re confident. We know what to expect this time. This time, they enter the game with experience and poise.