Jake Escalante, a two‑way standout from Soquel High, has been crowned the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League’s Player of the Year for 2026, earning the honor for the second consecutive season.
The left‑handed pitcher and slick‑fielding outfielder, who has committed to Cal State Fullerton, finished the campaign with a 10‑1 record, a 1.35 ERA over 57 innings and a .396 batting average, adding 14 extra‑base hits, four home runs, 37 RBIs and 34 runs scored.
His contributions helped the Knights capture the league title and secure a berth in the CIF NorCal Regionals, a milestone that underscores the program’s rising profile.
A season defined by dual excellence
Joining Escalante on the all‑star roster, Joey Raffo and Luke Shoemaker were named Co‑Pitchers of the Year; Raffo, a UC Davis commit, went 6‑4 with a 2.40 ERA, while Shoemaker, headed to UC Santa Barbara, posted a 6‑1 record and a 1.31 ERA.
Coach T.J. Moran’s guidance earned him Coach of the Year honors, reflecting the collective effort that produced a .355 team batting average and an 8.9 runs‑per‑game average.
The Knights’ pitching staff posted a 2.12 ERA and recorded eight shutouts, a testament to the depth of talent across the roster.