Experienced, talented roster boost diamond hopes
HUNTLEY — Huntley High School’s tradition on the diamond is dedicated players and coaches, with 12 players from classes of 2023 and 2024 already having selected a college. Another dozen Red Raiders are considered to be top newcomers for 2022-23, according to head HHS baseball coach Andy Jakubowski.
“The Red Raiders return 11 players from last year’s squad which was 31-5,” Jakbowski said. “We will have an athletic group of players who will put a lot of pressure on opposing defenses. The Red Raiders will buy into the “team approach” by playing to our strengths, and finding ways to manufacture runs.”
Familiar players back for the defending Fox Valley Conference champions include senior Ryan Bakes, a South Carolina University commit who will return after an injury early last season; brother senior Brayden Bakes, who opted for Indiana University and looks to follow through an all-conference, FVC offensive player of the year season.
Also, other college-bound Red Raiders are infielders seniors shortstop and second baseman Ryan Quinlan; first baseman CJ Filipek, headed to Lawrence University and Dillon Putty, a first baseman who selected McHenry County College. Also college-bound Red Raiders are senior first baseman and third baseman Michael Dabe, who is headed to the University of Dubuque and outfielder-catcher Aiden Zimmerman, who is headed to Judson University.
On the mound, the Red Raiders have 110 innings of experience and another standout at the ready. Senior right handed-pitchers Andrew Ressler, a Southern Illinois University Edwardsville commit; senior Derek Huber, attending Rock Valley College; Vinny Costsantino, attending Loras College; Parker Schuring, who selected Northern Illinois University and junior right handed-pitcher Malachi Paplanus.
“Our players are focused and excited for the 2023 season,” Jakubowski said. “The goal for this year’s squad hasn’t changed from previous years as we are focusing on getting 1 % better each day and being quality teammates. We will focus on little things like commanding the zone, playing solid defense and being aggressive on the bases.”
Huntley’s next scheduled home game is scheduled for 11 a.m. March 25 against Rockton Hononegah.
