HBCU Baseball Preseason Overview: Talladega College

Talladega College Tornadoes  

Conference: Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC)

Head Coach: Marcos Dominguez 7th Season

2023 Record: 28-18 (.609)

Black College Nines (BCN) 2023 HBCU Baseball Final Poll: No. 3

Top Returning Players: 

Darlin Fernandez, OF Center Field

Miguel Oropeza, INF

Jose Santiago, INF

Jose Franco, RHP

Ramses Ortega, RHP

Top Freshman Recruits: 

Dawinel Vazquez, RHP

Victor Rivera, RHP

Top JUCO Transfer: 

Ronaldo Rivera, C (Marchalltown CC) 

Top Transfer/Portal 

Jonathan William, INF/RHP (LeMoyne-Owens College)

Preseason Overview:

As the Tornadoes embark on the upcoming season, the baseball team is poised for success with a roster that combines seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. Among top returners are key players who have consistently delivered outstanding performances in the 2023 season.

Darlin Fernandez, the team’s dynamic center fielder, boasts an impressive track record with 47 games played, 175 at-bats, and a remarkable .326 batting average. First baseman Miguel Oropeza, a defensive stalwart with a .997 fielding percentage and impressive batting average of .377, and third baseman Jose Santiago, with a powerful bat who had 18 home runs in the last 2 seasons, are integral to Talladega’s team’s success.

On the pitching front, Jose Franco has proven their mettle, earning accolades such as the SSAC Freshman of the Year and a Gold Glove. Ramses Ortega, standout reliever pitcher, delivered a stellar performance last year, showcasing his prowess with 15 appearances, 50.0 innings pitched, and an impressive 3.40 ERA. With an outstanding strikeout record of 49 and 19 earned runs, Ortega’s reliability in high-pressure situations solidified his role as a key asset to our bullpen, setting the stage for another impactful season ahead.

Lastly, Armando Jackson and Nomar Garcia’s exceptional fielding skills were recognized with the prestigious Gold Glove award, a testament to their defensive prowess and invaluable contributions to the team’s overall success.

Adding to the teams strengths are the accomplished newcomers who bring fresh talent and skills to the team.

Victor Rivera, a versatile four-tool player and excellent baseball sense, brings more intelligence to play in the infield. Dawinel Vazquez, a robust arm pitcher with an 88+ mph fastball and excellent secondary pitches, providing a significant boost to the bullpen. Jonathan William, a speedy transfer player, adds versatility to the lineup. With this potent combination of top returners and impactful newcomers, the Talladega baseball team is primed for a competitive and successful season ahead.