DUBOIS, Pa. – At least two area players have been chosen as PA Prep Rivals “top players” in the Class of 2020 at their respective positions, while another was chosen as a Class of 2021 “top player”.
(Photo (from left): Daren Byers of Punxsutawney, Dayne Bauman of DuBois and Hayden Callen of Clarion-Limestone)
The 2020 group includes – but may not be limited to – Dayne Bauman of DuBois as a Top Utility Player and Daren Byers of Punxsutawney as a Top Outfielder, while the 2021 group includes Hayden Callen of Clarion-Limestone as a top pitcher.
Bauman hit .429 for DuBois last year with 13 RBIs and a .946 OPS. He was also 2-3 on the mound with a 3.98 ERA.
“It definitely means a lot to be named one of the top utility players in Pennsylvania for my class,” Bauman said. “I never thought some of these opportunities would be open to me.”
Bauman said he is excited about the 2020 season.
“Coming off my junior year, which was definitely my best season I’ve had, I am excited about what the 2020 baseball season is going to bring. I believe I’m going to be coming into the season with a chip on my shoulder and hopefully having a better season than last year.”
Bauman said he has gotten strong in a lot of different aspects of his game.
“Hopefully, that will help me all around this baseball season, whether it’s in the field, on the mound or at the plate,” Bauman said. I am excited to get this baseball season underway and excited for what’s to come.”
Byers, who has already committed to continuing his baseball career at Clarion University, is coming off a season that saw him hit .385 with four doubles and 12 RBIs. He also saw time on the mound going 1-1 with a 5.25 ERA.
“It was awesome to be noticed as a top outfield in Pennsylvania,” Byers said. “I can’t wait to finish my senior season and play college ball at Clarion University.”
Callen had a tremendous sophomore season at Clarion-Limestone going 8-2 with a 1.80 ERA while tossing a no-hitter during the year. He struck out 59 and walked 24 in 54 ⅓ innings of work with opponents hitting .201 against him. A solid hitter as well, Callen batted .458 with 21 RBIs.
