The University of Oregon announced that freshman first baseman Brayden Jaksa has been selected to the second‑team All‑American roster by Baseball America, capping a debut season that blended power and poise.
Jaksa's versatility extended beyond the diamond, as he also earned All‑America accolades from the NCBWA as a catcher and from Perfect Game as a first baseman, underscoring his adaptability.
Across 44 starts, he posted a .318 batting average with a .400 on‑base percentage and a .534 slugging percentage, producing 17 extra‑base hits that included 10 home runs, a triple and six doubles, while driving in 36 runs and stealing seven bases.
Versatility and Impact
His defensive contributions were equally notable, logging starts at first base, catcher, left field and right field, demonstrating a rare blend of offensive and defensive skill for a true freshman.
Historic Freshman Records
Outfielder Angel Laya, also a freshman, set three Oregon freshman records for total bases, runs scored and home runs, finishing the season with 120 total bases, 49 runs and 14 homers.
Laya slashed .296/.396/.538, posting a .934 OPS and adding 25 extra‑base hits, while driving in 47 runs, the second‑most on the team.
His 14 home runs broke freshman expectations and placed him among the most prolific power hitters in the program's early history.
With both players poised to build on their record‑setting freshmen campaigns, the Ducks' coaching staff expects continued growth and deeper roster flexibility, positioning Oregon as a contender in the Pac‑12 and beyond.