With a solid foundation of returners and a promising group of transfers, Talladega College is well-positioned for success. The infusion of left-handed pitchers, powerful hitters, and speedy outfielders strengthens the pitching staff and lineup. Despite the loss of shortstop Nomar Garcia, the team’s depth and balance should make them competitive for the upcoming season.
Out of the 30-man roster from 2024, 22 players have returned, bolstering the team’s depth and experience for the upcoming season.
A key returner is Miguel Oropeza who led the NAIA in batting average in 2024 and was awarded the MVP and Best Hitter in the GCAC. His return provides a significant offensive boost. Samuel Guadamuz returns after an excellent 2024 season with a record of 11-2 and an ERA of 3.22, solidifying the team’s pitching rotation. Victor Rivera known for his speed, led the NAIA in stolen bases last season. His return brings both offensive and defensive value to the team.
Talladega returns its core lineup. All regular starters from 2024 are back, except for Nomar Garcia, who transferred to Indiana State University. Garcia’s departure leaves a gap at shortstop, but the rest of the infield remains intact.
Key additions added to the team include six left-handed arms for the bullpen during the recruiting season, which will significantly strengthen the pitching staff and provide versatility. Additional outfielders were recruited to bring more speed and defensive capability to the team. Power hitting includes a two-way player offering a strong arm and significant power at the plate, adding depth to the team’s offense and pitching.
Impact player Christian Delgado transferred from Southeastern CC in Iowa. He is a right-handed pitcher with solid command and control. His fastball ranges from 88-89 mph, and he possesses a strong set of secondary pitches. Emilio Duque transferred from Texas A&M International in Texas. Duque is a left-handed pitcher with excellent command and control, a fastball clocking in at 88-90 mph, and a devastating change-up that will make an immediate impact on the mound, along with Diego Duque’s transfer from Texas A&M International, also from Texas. A dynamic two-way player, Duque adds power to the lineup and brings a lefty arm to the rotation with great command and secondary pitches. He is expected to play a significant role both offensively and on the mound.
Freshman addition Joshua Catala Santos is four-tool player capable of excelling as an outfielder. Santos adds speed to the lineup, and his above-average running ability makes the team stronger defensively and offensively.