The baseball diamonds are set for action, and Sandra Day O'Connor's baseball team, under the guidance of Coach Jeff Baumgartner, is gearing up for an intriguing season. With a mix of returning veterans and promising newcomers, the Eagles are poised to make an impact in the (AIA) 6A division this season.

Team Overview:

High School: Sandra Day O'Connor
Coach: Jeff Baumgartner
AIA Classification: 6A
Conference: Desert Valley

Returning Strengths: Sandra Day O'Connor's roster boasts five returning starters creating a solid foundation for the upcoming 2024 season. The team's key players, expected to make the greatest impact, include Hustyn Wheeler (P/OF), Ky McGary (CF), Jake Sanko (SS), and Nathan Bayus (C), all seniors bringing experience and leadership to the field.

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‘24 SS Jake Sanko
(SD O’Connor)@GCU_Baseball commit with yet another big day. Puts this hanging breaking ball off the scoreboard. One of Sanko’s 3 hits on the day. #BESEEN ll @jake_sanko pic.twitter.com/Fhu1PbRpZW

— Shea Sbranti (@SheaSbranti) March 22, 2023

Identifying some overlooked players on the roster to watch out for include Nathan Bayus (SR C), Cody Stoller (JR RHP), Chris Peronace (SR LHP), and Aidan Maselli (SR INF) as sleepers with the potential to surprise opponents.

Top Returning Players: The Eagles' top returning players are primed to lead the team both on and off the field. Hustyn Wheeler (OF/LHP, SR) who is committed to Oregon State will play a crucial role as a likely leadoff hitter and closer for the Eagles. Alongside Arizona State Commit Ky McGary (CF, SR) who eyes a potential draft spot, while Jake Sanko (SS, SR) the GCU commit returns as the starting shortstop and leader for a strong Eagles offense. 

24’ OF Ky McGary

A look at @ASU_Baseball commit @McgaryKy with a big showing at the first ever West Coast ProCase.

McGary put together some high powered rounds at the plate showing quick twitch and juice to the middle of the field.

?104.1 EV while popping a 93 mph arm in… pic.twitter.com/W3geoj7zkM

— Shea Sbranti (@SheaSbranti) June 5, 2023

Preseason All-State Picks: In creating a Preseason All-State team, the canadits from Sandra Day O'Connor include Ky McGary (CF), Hustyn Wheeler (OF/P), and Jake Sanko (SS). These players are expected to showcase their prowess and compete at the highest level.

Key Departures and Newcomers: Among the notable departures is Josh Butler, now playing for Arizona State. The team welcomes new faces, with Cody Stoller (JR RHP), Brent Sollars (SO OF), and Jaylen Jimenez (FR RHP) joining the ranks. Jimenez, a towering 6'4" freshman, is already identified as a potential impact player on the mound for the Eagles as he is the current #1 prospect in the state of Arizona for the 2027 class.

As Sandra Day O'Connor's baseball team embarks on a rebuilding season, Coach Jeff Baumgartner and his squad are optimistic about the future. With a mix of seasoned seniors, emerging stars, and strategic planning, the Eagles are poised to make waves in the AIA 6A classification. Keep a close eye on Sandra Day O'Connor as they aim to redefine success on the baseball diamond.

UPCOMING EVENTS

SHOWCASE	STATE	DATE	LOCATION
Arizona Rising Stars ID	AZ	04/13	Grand Canyon University - Phoenix, AZ
Arizona Rising Stars ID - Session 2	AZ	04/27	Grand Canyon University - Phoenix, AZ

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