By Sean Duncan
Executive Director

Christian Taugner became Lake Park’s all-time victories leader last week, an impressive feat in itself. But it was how the 6-foot-2, 180-pound right-hander earned his 20^th career win that ultimately crowned him the Porsche Exchange Player of the Week.

Taugner, who’s signed at Brown University, pitched a no-hitter in his record-breaking victory against East Aurora last Saturday. In the process, he broke the school’s single-game strikeout record – a record he owned – as he punched out 15 batters. If not for an error, Taugner would’ve had a perfect game. For good measure, he also went 3-for-4 at the plate with two RBI to lead No. 24 Lake Park to a 6-0 victory.

But Taugner’s record-breaking day was only half of what he accomplished last week. He also threw a three-hit shutout with nine strikeouts and no walks to beat Bartlett, 11-0. Taugner threw only 55 pitches in the five-inning victory.

So in 12 innings last week, Taugner struck out 24, walked none, yielded three hits and broke two records. Offensively, he finished the week going 5-for-8 with three RBI.

“Christian is a very special athlete,” said Lake Park coach Dan Colucci. “He is talented, smart, hard-working, dependable, and has a tremendous ability to focus and stay in the present.  He is the perfect team player who consistently thinks of the team before himself and his personal accomplishments. 

“In setting the 30-year-old record for wins at Lake Park with his 20^th by throwing a no-hitter, as well as breaking his own strikeouts per game record with 15, was an incredible performance.”

For the season, Taugner is 6-1 with four shutouts for the Lancers, who have been one of the season’s biggest surprises. He holds a 0.81 ERA with 71 strikeouts to five walks in 43 innings. Opponents are hitting .140 against him. Earlier in the season, he threw a one-hitter with 14 strikeouts against St. Charles North.

The Porsche Exchange salutes Christian for his hard work and success.

CLICK HERE to view previous Porsche Exchange Players of the Week.