A season of promise
The SSBR 2026 Fall Preview shines a spotlight on the Tushka Tigers, a 2A high school baseball program that has become synonymous with consistency and championship ambition. Under head coach Landon Carper, who brings eight years of coaching experience and three seasons at the helm of the Tigers, the squad blends veteran savvy with fresh talent.
A seasoned lineup
The roster features ten athletes who were part of the 2025 and 2026 state runner‑up teams, including junior catcher Grady Howard, junior infielder/outfielder Kale Graham, junior Kollin Coates, junior Braylon Hastings, senior DJ Alberda, senior Creek Alford, senior Jake Langley, junior center fielder Waylon George, junior left‑handed pitcher Hunter White and senior designated hitter Jace Hastings. Pitcher Eli Webb also returns, adding depth to the pitching staff.
New additions such as senior pitcher Bartlett Patterson, junior Jax Watkins and freshman Ryder McDaniel are expected to contribute immediately, while sophomores Nolan Langley, Heath Menges, Leighton Haggard and Sawyer Crews, along with freshmen Karson Aguilar‑Wyricks and Nolan Cannon, round out a competitive group.
Preparing for the grind
Coach Carper emphasizes work ethic, adaptability and a competitive spirit, noting that the team’s strengths lie in its playoff experience and the community’s passion for the game. At the same time, he acknowledges the need to sharpen hitting consistency, attack pitchers more aggressively and sustain intensity in every inning.
The season officially opens on August 10, with the possibility of early games if opponents are already in session. The Tigers will be backed by their sponsor Surf Bar, a family‑friendly restaurant chain that recently opened a downtown Weatherford location and operates a food truck, underscoring the local roots of the program.
With a schedule that stretches from August through October, the Tigers aim to translate rigorous preparation into another deep playoff run and, ultimately, a state title.