The Newcastle High School varsity baseball team enters the 2026 season with significant momentum, returning six starters from last year’s state semifinal squad that compiled a dominant 36-5 record.
Head Coach Jarod King expressed confidence in his roster’s ability to make another deep tournament run.
“We have six returning starters from last year’s team that made the Class 4A state semifinals, very strong on the mound with lots of depth,” King said.
The Racers have made the state tournament for the last two consecutive years, establishing themselves as a Class 4A powerhouse in Oklahoma high school baseball.
The team’s success rests on the shoulders of experienced senior players who have committed to play college baseball. Tyler Frazier, a four-year starter, leads the offense batting in the leadoff spot. Frazier, who has pitched multiple big games on the mound, signed with Oklahoma State University and will continue his baseball career in Stillwater.
Christian Delorea, the team’s catcher and pitcher, hits in the middle of the order and demonstrated his power last season with 11 home runs. Delorea signed with Seminole State College.
Lane Seaton, who plays shortstop and pitches, is recognized as a team leader. Known for his high batting average and stellar defense, Seaton signed with Northern Oklahoma College in Enid.
Kaden Longman, a pitcher and outfielder, brings impressive velocity to the mound, consistently throwing 90-92 mph with what coaches describe as “electric stuff.” Longman also excels at the plate and signed with Hutchinson College.
Ryder Gibson, the pitcher-catcher, hits for a high average and possesses a strong arm on the mound. Gibson committed to Murray State College.
Sheamus McLaughlin, the team’s second baseman and pitcher, will bat in the top of the order. McLaughlin plays stellar defense with a strong arm.
Jaden Fletcher, a senior designated hitter and first baseman, brings significant power to the lineup as a big, strong player capable of changing games with his bat. Blake Crestwell, a switch-hitter senior, demonstrates the versatility the team values, capable of playing pitcher, catcher and infield positions while making all the necessary plays.
Baylor Blakey exemplifies the work ethic Newcastle baseball demands. The player is consistently the first to practice and last to leave, playing multiple positions while prioritizing what’s best for the team.
Dax King, a sophomore who hits left-handed and throws right-handed, plays outfield and provides an offensive boost with good bat speed and power potential.
With six returning starters from a squad that reached the state semifinals, strong pitching depth and several college-committed athletes, Newcastle appears positioned for another successful postseason run. The team’s experience navigating previous tournament scenarios provides a significant advantage as the Racers chase their third consecutive state tournament appearance.
