HUGO BUFFALOES BASEBALL
Coach: Scott Schier
OUTLOOK
“This being my third year as the head coach of the Buffaloes, I’m looking for us to take the next step and get in the upper half of our district at least; if things go well maybe even host a Regional this year,” said head coach Scott Schier. “We have three pitchers returning with at least 16 innings under their belt. If they can come through again and give us quality innings, along with the young guys we have coming, this could be our strongest staff so far!”
At the heart of Hugo’s lineup is Jayka Santillan, the team’s returning leader both at the plate and behind the dish. “Jayka was our Monday starter on the mound last year, then caught the rest of the week!” Schier said. “He is a tough kid and a great leader! He accepts his role and looks forward to the challenge! He led us in hitting last year with a .369 average, 1.088 OPS, 7 doubles, 2 triples and 3 HRs, 24 RBI and stole 9 bases! He had a .190 batting average against him and was 2-2 on the mound. He also had a .932 fielding percentage! Look for him to be the leader of the team this year, in a similar role as last year.”
Hugo’s underclassmen bring plenty of excitement to the lineup as well, particularly sophomore Zane Allen, one of the top young corner infielders in the program. “Zane started 28 games as a freshman last year, most at third base,” Schier said. “He is a big kid and has the chance to be powerful at the plate!” Also earning praise is Payton McClain, recognized for his leadership and all-around athleticism. “Payton is a three-sport athlete, playing football, basketball and baseball,” Schier said. “He is also a leader in his church youth group where he plays guitar and leads music at times. He is also a great student in the classroom!”
Rounding out Hugo’s deep roster are Keldin Cochran, Ja’Mari Scroggins, Chasten Morgan, CJ Ward Jr., and Jakoby Teague, each expected to play key roles. “Keldin has a lot of ability and potential. He just needs to quit thinking and play,” Schier said. “Ja’Mari has been a mainstay in the lineup the last two years. He has pitched, caught, played on the middle infield as well as the outfield! Has good speed and is always a threat on the bases. Looking for great things from him this year! Chasten has been a mainstay in the outfield for the last two years. He has a lot of speed and can be a force on the bases. Look for him to be one of the top arms on the mound this year. CJ played in 16 games last year as a freshman. Look for him to be a mainstay in the outfield this year. Needs to get stronger, but he handles the bat pretty well and had some clutch hits last year. Look for him to pitch as well for us this year. Jakoby played 14 games on the middle infield last year as a freshman. Look for him to compete for the starting SS position this year as well as pitch! Has a lot of ability and just needs more opportunities to shine!”
