Kouts High School sophomore Ben Finney excels on the baseball field. Finney, primarily playing center field in travel ball, finds himself in different roles for the Mustangs. Senior Jesse Overholt occupies center field, so Finney adapts to play other positions.

Kouts coach Jason Dorshorst highlighted Finney’s skills as one of the top shortstops in the state. Despite this, the team already has solid players in that position, such as sophomore Billy Miller and senior Landon Garrett. Finney can pitch too, but Kouts boasts a strong pitching staff. His current role is as a utility player—having played second base for two seasons before transitioning to right field during playoffs.

When we made the decision to switch him to the outfield, he didn’t hesitate. He embraced the change and excelled, Dorshorst said.

Despite proving he can play virtually anywhere on the field, Finney is also the lead-off hitter for the high-ranked Mustangs with a record of 31-1. They face No. 4 Northeast Dubois in the Class 1A state championship at Victory Field in Indianapolis.

Finney’s statistics are impressive: a .366 batting average with two home runs, a team-high of eight triples, 23 RBIs, 51 runs scored, and 20 stolen bases. His recent performance includes a 3-for-3 game with an inside-the-park homer, two triples, four RBIs, and three runs in a victory against Fort Wayne Blackhawk Christian.

Despite a slow start this season, Finney has found his rhythm by dedicating time to extra reps outside regular practice. As a freshman, he recorded a .412 average, 29 RBIs, 46 runs, and 23 stolen bases. He aimed to prove his capabilities to coaches and teammates by continually improving.

Senior first baseman Eli Harper praises Finney as an energetic player who contributes significantly on and off the field. Harper noted Finney’s dedication and ability to maintain a positive, supportive presence.

The Mustangs have won 31 consecutive games after an initial loss to Guerin, who will compete for the Class 3A state title. During their streak, they achieved the Porter County Conference title and their first PCC Tournament title in decades. Last year’s season ended with a lesson from a loss to Indianapolis Lutheran at Victory Field. This motivated the team to perform better, reflected in their attitude and readiness this year.

Coach Dorshorst explained that after winning sectionals without excessive celebration, the team maintained a focus on continuous improvement. When reflecting on what lies ahead, they feel better prepared and determined to succeed this season.

Finney stated the Mustangs are confident and experienced ahead of their match against Northeast Dubois, who is new to the state championship stage. Finney noted that while the nerves are less this year, the Mustangs are both excited and focused on their goals.