Hunter Halajian’s Big Leap to College Baseball

A fresh start awaits Hunter Halajian, a former pitcher from Watertown High School. He has just pledged to play baseball at Northeast Iowa Community College, turning his high‑school and summer league experience into a college career. Hunter helped lead his high‑school team to the state runner‑up spot and now dominates in the American Legion summer league. In just 58 innings, he has a 6‑2 win–loss record, 66 strikeouts, a WHIP of 1. 36 and an ERA near three. Coaches say he has always shown potential, but it was his hard work off the field that sharpened him into a top pitcher. He has spent countless hours building strength, adding speed and polishing every part of his pitching routine.

While Hunter heads to college, other local athletes are also making moves. Jackson McClemens from the same league will play both basketball and baseball at Mount Marty University, switching from his original plan to focus on baseball only. Mack Saxon, a running back from Mobridge‑Pollock, will join Northern State University’s football team as a senior this fall. The region is seeing many athletes committing to colleges across sports—from football and basketball to track, swimming, and wrestling. The list of new signees will grow as the 2025‑26 season continues, with local schools eager to add talent from their community.

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