In the latest National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II Top 20 National Baseball Poll released on February 27, Oakton’s baseball team (4-0) checks in at No. 18. The Raiders began the 2013 season by sweeping two doubleheaders played at the Metrodome in Minneapolis. On February 22, Oakton bested nationally-ranked Century College by the identical scores of 4-3 in the twinbill. On February 21, the Raiders defeated the University of Winnipeg-Wesman 7-4 and 5-3.

“I’m not surprised we are nationally ranked,” said Raiders head coach Bill Fratto. “We worked extremely hard to get ready for the season and I expect with the talent we have, our team will climb in the national rankings.”

Offensively, freshman outfielder Josh Jyawook (Fremd) leads the team with a .667 batting average, which also ranks third in NJCAA Division II. 

The Raiders will be heading to the Sunshine State March 9 – 15 for their annual Florida trip. During the week-long getaway, Oakton will play 11 games against top teams from across the nation.

“Playing high-caliber teams will only prepare us for another championship run,” said Fratto. “Our players are ready for the challenges ahead.”