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Kinkaid's Andy Guy
BEHIND THE PLATE: Houston is home to nation's top catchers
Furthermore, a bat is often swung within six inches of their face, so the unwavering focus is of the utmost importance.
Luckily, for some of the Houston area’s baseball programs, their teams are in good hands.
Nolan Traeger (Catcher-2024)--Concordia Lutheran Crusaders
Concordia Lutheran's Nolan Traeger
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Concordia Lutheran baseball is blessed with talent across the board. Their catcher Nolan Traeger is no exception. The 6-foot junior enjoyed a stellar 2022 performance, earning first-team, all-state and State All-Tournament honors, en route to the Crusaders’ appearance in the TAPPS State Semifinals.
Although the previous season ended sooner than expected, Traeger is confident that his team can go further this Spring.
“Last year was a tough year, not the outcome we wanted of course,” said Traeger. “We lost some of our seniors, but we’re reloaded and planning to get back to the State Championship. Concordia has been really good to me and I’m just hoping that I can bring something to it.”
Traeger’s time spent with Concordia Lutheran, as well as his experience in Twelve Baseball and the 15u USA National Team, has garnered him the opportunity to continue his baseball career after graduation. It’s been years in the making with a tremendous amount of work put in, and it’s resulted in his commitment to join his brother -- RHP Jax Traeger at TCU.
“It’s a fun process to be on these teams and to get the experience I have,” he said. “It comes with some perks and can be a little nerve-racking at some points, with all the scouts I’ve played in front of. But, I just play my game and relax, so, it’s been a fun ride.”
Expect another big year from the Concordia Catcher and the ‘Saders, as they’re likely to be contending for a final-four spot, at a minimum.
Andy Guy (Catcher-2024)--Kinkaid School Falcons
Kinkaid catcher Andy Guy will be back behind the plate for the Falcons, as they start their campaign for a second-consecutive SPC State Championship. With numerous starters returning, including Guy (All-South Zone selection) and junior outfielder Miles Roeder (All-SPC), the Falcons don’t appear to be slowing down.
“As a team, we expect to dominate the SPC,” said Guy. “Our end goal hasn’t changed. So, we’re after another Championship. Individually, I’m striving to make the All-South Zone team, again. I hold myself to higher standards as an older member of the team, so I want to set an example and be a leader for everyone.”
The Kinkaid junior has his sights set on another title, but, also has ambitions in mind for his future.
“I decided that baseball was my sport when I was around 12 years old, even though I wasn’t necessarily great at it,” Guy said. “I loved the game and dreamed of playing in college one day. Baseball has opened up so many doors and brought me several relationships I never would’ve had without it. In the future, I hope to see myself looking back at a terrific college baseball career that, in the best of worlds, catapulted me to a pro contract.”
Cade Arrambide (Catcher-2024)--Tomball Cougars
Tomball's Cade Arrambide
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
Tomball is fresh off the heels of an impressive 24-11 season, that saw them advance to the UIL Regional Quarterfinals. Junior catcher Cade Arrambide played a significant role in the Cougars success, garnering him first-team, all-district honors. That momentum should only progress, heading into the Spring.
“Being a returning varsity player, it’s my duty to lead and inspire the team by being a great role model, both on and off the field,” said Arrambide. “We lost a good number of seniors last year that left some big shoes to fill. So, I hope to be a vital piece of the team that Coach [Doug] Rush fields. We’re looking to push further than round three this year.”
It should come as no surprise that Arrambide’s performance on the diamond has gained him the attention of scouts and recruiters nationwide. Hence, his commitment to play for LSU, following his 2024 graduation.
“LSU is a great school with an amazing baseball program,” he said. “The coaching staff -- Jay Johnson, Josh Jordan, Wes Johnson, and the Director of Operations Josh Simpson -- made playing ball at LSU an obvious choice. Plus, several family members have attended LSU. We thank God for the blessing of [my] abilities, the opportunities and the coaching/training I’ve had along the way.”
SPX RHP Casan Evans
READY TO GEAUX: LSU-commit Evans anticipating strong year for SPX
After becoming one of the leaders of the Panthers' bullpen during his sophomore year, in which SPX won district, all eyes have been on Evans. Given the current NCAA-Divison I rankings, it should be no surprise that a top prospect like Evans would decide to join the No. 1 ranked LSU baseball team.
“I chose LSU, not only because of the coaching but because of the community and fan base that they have there,” said Evans. “I know that they are always welcoming and will always support their players.”
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Starting baseball at a young age, Evans’ throwing arm and technique have gotten stronger by the year.
“It has taken hard work and dedication for me to get to this point,” Evans said. “More importantly, it was my family, coaches, and close friends who pushed me every day. I wouldn’t be here right now without them.”
The Texas Marucci Elite pitcher has been starting for the Panthers since his freshman year, leading them to playoff berths each season. Baseball is in his blood, and it’s safe to say his time spent has helped Evans to enhance his craft and love for the game.
“Playing baseball for SPX has made me a better person,” said Evans. “It’s helped me to make friends and has taught me great life lessons that I’ll take with me ‘til I die.”
Considering his father Michael Evans is the coach at SPX, it shouldn’t be a surprise as to who Evans’ inspiration is.
SPX Head Baseball Coach Michael Evans
“My biggest role model is my dad,” Evans said. “He knows what it takes to play at the highest level and he fought his whole life to get to that point. Unfortunately, he never made it to the Majors. He fought for seven years in the Minors, but he never had a bad attitude about it. He helps me with whatever I need to do and will always push me, no matter what.”
Expect big things from Evans and St. Pius baseball this Spring. Rest assured, the team is preparing for a deep run and has high expectations.
“This year should be great for the team,” said Evans. “We have a really good chance at winning it all. But, I’m really excited about next year (my senior year), since we will have more team chemistry and we’ll be able to beat anyone.”