Angel Laya, a freshman outfielder who burst onto the Oregon scene last season, set a program record with 14 home runs and posted a .296 batting average, quickly becoming a focal point of the Ducks’ lineup.
A Freshman Phenomenon
Born in Venezuela and raised in San Diego, California, Laya brought a blend of international experience and West Coast grit to Eugene, contributing 47 RBIs and helping the Ducks reach the super regional round of the NCAA tournament for the third time in four years.
Although Oregon fell short of the Men’s College World Series, the team’s deep run underscored the program’s rising trajectory, a narrative that Laya’s performance helped fuel.
His standout numbers have positioned him among the top prospects for the 2028 MLB Draft, drawing attention from scouts who view him as a potential impact bat at the next level.
After entering the transfer portal, Laya’s next destination remains uncertain, but the move signals a pivotal moment for both the player and the Ducks as they navigate roster changes and aim to maintain momentum in the competitive Pac‑12 landscape.