By Angela Brunk
Cole Hayden, a senior at Pittsburg High School, is gearing up for his final baseball season with a strong mix of excitement and determination. As the team’s third baseman, Hayden is especially looking forward to sharing the field one last time with the teammates he’s grown up playing alongside.
During the offseason, Hayden stayed committed to improving his game by spending time training in the gym and hitting weekly with teammates. His primary focus has been on elevating his performance at the plate. After hitting .246 last season with a .390 on-base percentage, he made it a priority to take countless reps and refine his swing, aiming to become a more reliable and impactful hitter.
In addition to his work as a third baseman, Hayden made valuable contributions on the mound last season. Pitching 33 innings, he recorded 33 strikeouts with an average of one strikeout per inning. This highlights his versatility and ability to step up in multiple roles for his team.
Looking toward the end of the season, Hayden’s main goal is to help lead Pittsburg to an SEK League championship. He’s focused not only on personal growth but also on team success, emphasizing the importance of finishing the season strong together.
After graduation, Hayden plans to continue his baseball career at Fort Scott Community College, where he will pitch at the collegiate level. Outside of baseball, he has also been involved in football and is an active member of several school clubs, showcasing his well-rounded commitment both on and off the field.
