Payten Wawruck's reputation preceded him when he walked onto the Loomis Chaffee campus four years ago.
Pelicans coach Donnie McKillop knew of Wawruck's background in the classroom and on the field. Wawruck transferred to the Windsor, Conn., school after spending one year at Rham High (Hebron, Conn.), reclassifying as a freshman.
Wawruck was the first student-athlete McKillop recruited upon his arrival in 2017, and the two have forged a trusting relationship ever since.
“Payten has thrived in the competitive Founders League and is crushing baseballs this spring," McKillop said. "Payten is our spark plug. He is excellent in our leadoff spot with a ton of speed and a powerful, consistent bat. He is almost always on base and is always looking to take the next one. He sets the tone early in games and brings a consistent level of energy and passion to each and every game and practice. I have been impressed with his ability to own centerfield this year."