Glenbrook North's Ethan Bass, Top MLB Draft Prospect, Gets Tips from Jason Kipnis

Wake Forest recruit Ethan Bass impresses former Chicago Cubs player with his humility and eagerness to learn

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:05pm

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Glenbrook North senior shortstop Ethan Bass, one of the nation's top baseball prospects, has been getting valuable tips from former MLB player Jason Kipnis, a Glenbrook North graduate who now volunteers as an assistant coach. Despite his lofty draft status, Bass remains grounded and focused on continuous improvement, drawing praise from his high school coach for his elite defensive skills and team-first approach.

Why it matters

As one of the top high school baseball players in the country, Ethan Bass's development and mentorship from experienced players like Jason Kipnis could have a significant impact on his future professional prospects. Bass's ability to stay humble and focused despite the external pressure and attention is an inspiring example for young athletes.

The details

Bass, a 6-foot-2 senior shortstop, is signed to play at Wake Forest and is ranked 56th on MLB's list of eligible players for the 2026 draft. He has impressed with his line-drive hitting, defensive prowess, and mature approach to the game. Bass has introduced a 'prep step' before every pitch to stay locked in, and he regularly seeks advice from Kipnis, who played second base for the Chicago Cubs before retiring in 2020.

  • Ethan Bass hit .516 with four home runs, 16 runs scored and six stolen bases in Glenbrook North's first 12 games of the 2026 season.
  • Bass experienced a rare slump in the middle of his sophomore season in 2024, but received encouragement from teammate Noah Delgado to get back on track.

The players

Ethan Bass

A 6-foot-2 senior shortstop at Glenbrook North High School who is signed to play at Wake Forest and is ranked 56th on MLB's list of eligible players for the 2026 draft.

Jason Kipnis

A former MLB second baseman who played for the Chicago Cubs and has returned to his alma mater, Glenbrook North, as a volunteer assistant coach.

Justin Weiner

The head baseball coach at Glenbrook North High School, who has praised Bass's defensive skills and team-first approach.

Noah Delgado

A Glenbrook North teammate of Bass who plays at St. Leo in Florida and provided encouragement to Bass during a slump in his sophomore season.

Tom Walter

The head baseball coach at Wake Forest, where Bass has committed to play college baseball and is excited about the program's player development.

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What they’re saying

“You've got to play the game like you're 5 years old again, like you're playing in 'The Sandlot' movie. You have to stay humble, or the game will humble you, and it's important to remember to have fun.”

— Ethan Bass, Glenbrook North Senior Shortstop

“His defense is what sets him apart. Combining his range, glove, arm and instincts, it's the complete package. There have been multiple times that I've turned to one of my assistants and asked, 'How did he make that play?'”

— Justin Weiner, Glenbrook North Head Baseball Coach

“Ethan has from the start been someone who's been comfortable having baseball conversations with me, which is great to see because he's trying to better himself. He's aware that he makes mistakes and that he needs to get better.”

— Jason Kipnis, Glenbrook North Volunteer Assistant Coach

What’s next

Bass will have to decide this summer whether to sign with a professional team after being selected in the MLB draft or honor his commitment to play at Wake Forest.

The takeaway

Ethan Bass's humility, work ethic, and eagerness to learn from experienced players like Jason Kipnis set him apart as a top high school baseball prospect. His team-first approach and dedication to continuous improvement are qualities that could serve him well as he navigates the next steps in his baseball career.