As the summer is in full swing, I love to reflect on my journey to this point. My freshman year at William H. Taft High School in San Antonio, TX was exciting. As a right-handed pitcher with the ability to play various positions, I had an eventful season filled with growth, accomplishments, and a true passion for the game.
Embracing Versatility & Skills
At Taft High School, I showcased my versatility as a true utility player. While my primary position is right-handed pitcher, I also displayed my proficiency at first base, third base, and in the outfield. This adaptability not only added value to my team but also allowed me to develop a comprehensive understanding of the game from multiple perspectives.
Standout Performances & Notable Achievements
During my freshman year, I was honored to receive 2nd Team Academic All-District Honors, highlighting my commitment to excellence both on and off the field. I worked hard throughout the school maintaining A/B Honor Roll while keeping up with a rigorous workout routine and practice/game schedules.
Additionally, I led the JV team in batting average, batting over .600, proving my ability to contribute to the team’s success in various ways. I earned a Varsity letter this year, a testament to my dedication and hard work throughout the season and ability to step up to the plate when called up. I didn’t play a lot of Varsity games due to an injury early in the season, but Coach awarded the letter based on my contribution in the games I played. I started first base in both Varsity appearances this season.
A Memorable Moment
One particular game stands out in my memory as a defining moment of my freshman year. I was called up to play Varsity in a highly competitive match again Harlan HS. During the top of the 7th inning, I stepped up to the plate and delivered a crucial hit that not only scored a run but scored the tieing run on an error. The intense battle that followed stretched into ten innings, showcasing the resilience and determination of our team. We didn’t come out with the win, but I will never forget that night. I’m thankful to my coaches for trusting me, believing in me, and giving me the opportunity to prove myself. I had little experience at this level of play and it would have been easy to sub me in this situation. Instead, Coach Craft told me to go up there and have fun! My Varsity teammates also accepted me and encouraged me, giving me the confidence in that moment that I needed as a freshman in my first Varsity start and such an important at-bat!
Community Involvement
Beyond the confines of the diamond, I firmly believe in giving back to the community that supports us. Throughout my freshman year, I actively volunteered with Greater Helotes Little League (GHLL), sharing my passion for baseball with young aspiring players. Our team and I volunteered during Little League Major games by helping warmup the players, coaching first and third base, and encouraging the players. I also volunteered by doing field duty, trash clean up, and working in the concession stand.
I think my favorite volunteer opportunity with GHLL was being a “Buddy” during the GHLL Little League Challenger Division baseball game. The Little League Challenger Division is Little League’s adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges. Buddies assist Challenger athletes in batting, base running and defense, as needed. My younger brother is autistic and has Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) so this division is close to my heart. It was a wonderful way to give back, serve others, and spread the love of baseball.
Additionally, I dedicated my time to the San Antonio Food Bank. Our school district, Northside ISD, partnered with the SA Food Bank for Mega Distributions at Northside’s Gustafson Stadium to help those in need while emphasizing the values of teamwork and empathy instilled by my family and baseball.
Overcoming Adversity
My freshman year also presented me with a significant challenge—a high ankle sprain and Achilles tendon strain resulting from a slide into third base during the second scrimmage of the season. It wasn’t the way I expected to start off the season. Although I was sidelined for a few weeks, I remained actively engaged with the team, attending games and practices. Determined to return stronger, I diligently followed the rehabilitation protocol and rejoined the field three weeks later, exhibiting my resilience and commitment to the game. I wasn’t able to pitch for a few more weeks, but was happy to help in any way I could. I began playing first base, third base, and outfield more frequently during this time and developed skills to be a true utility player!
Future Aspirations & Goals for Sophomore Year
Reflecting on my freshman year at Taft HS, I am grateful for the opportunities, growth, and experiences that have helped shape me as an athlete and as a young man. I remain committed to embracing versatility, overcoming challenges, and striving for excellence on my journey towards college baseball and beyond.
Looking to the years ahead, my ultimate goal is to play college baseball while pursuing my degree. I am excited to continue honing my skills, expanding my knowledge of the game, and contributing to our Taft Baseball program’s success. Through dedication, hard work, and a love for baseball, I aspire to make a positive impact both on and off the field next year and the years to come.
Thank you for joining me on this insightful exploration of my freshman year. Stay tuned for more updates on my high school and baseball journey!