Hustlin’ Cougs Baseball built for the grind: Spring 2026 Preview
The Lassen College Cougars enter the 2026 spring baseball season with momentum, maturity, and a program identity that continues to grow stronger each year. Built on toughness, accountability, and brotherhood, this Cougar team is poised to compete at a high level once again.
The heart of the 2026 roster lies in a powerful and experienced sophomore class that has been through the grind and understands what it takes to win. Leading the charge offensively are outfielders Damico Parker and Jack Zimmerman, both dynamic athletes who bring speed, consistency, and presence to the lineup. The infield is stacked with proven talent in Ethan Beede, Kylan Kono, and Roque Serrano, a trio that combines defensive reliability with offensive production. At first base, Jackson Rosenthal anchors the corner with size, strength, and leadership.
On the mound, the Cougars return a strong right-handed presence with Kyson Goates and Noah Kimura, two pitchers who give Lassen stability, competitiveness, and confidence every time they take the ball.
While the sophomore class provides the backbone, a talented group of freshmen is ready to make its mark. Easton Curtis adds athleticism and versatility to the outfield, while Mason Montoya brings energy and skill to the infield. On the pitching side, Freeman Rountree adds depth to the staff, Caden Fowler provides a valuable two-way threat as a right-handed pitcher and first baseman, and left-hander Trent Bailey gives the Cougars a different look from the mound.
The 2026 season also ushers in key additions to the coaching staff. Aaron Hassell joins the program as pitching coach, joining us from Division 2 powerhouse Missouri Southern University, bringing fresh insight and a player-first approach to developing arms. In addition, Cougar alumni Kyle Micklus and Kyle Norton return to the program to coach, further strengthening the culture and the tradition that is Lassen baseball.
Head coach Frank Avilla, now entering his 16th year at the helm, believes the program is positioned for sustained success.
“Our program and brotherhood are in a really exciting place,” Avilla said. “If we can become a team with real confidence, selfless ambition, and everyone committed to doing their job, we have a real chance to make another run.”
Avilla also emphasized the importance of the program’s newest staff members.
“Anytime quality men and alumni join the culture, it is special. The additions of Coach Hassell, Micklus, and Norton have been monumental in solidifying the foundation of our program.”
With a seasoned sophomore core, impactful newcomers, and a staff deeply invested in the Cougar tradition, Lassen baseball continues to move forward with purpose. One thing is clear as the season approaches—the #HustlinCougs are hungry, connected, and ready to defend the standard they’ve built.
The cougars open the season with a 4-game series beginning with a doubleheader Friday @ Hartnell College in Salinas, CA, 1st pitch 10:00 a.m.