With a nearly perfect 29-1 record, the Preston Pirates enter the 2025 OSSAA Class 2A Fall Baseball State Tournament as one of the hottest teams in Oklahoma. After two consecutive years of early exits, the Pirates are back for a third straight state tournament appearance and this time, they are determined to flip the script.
Under the steady guidance of Head Coach Ryan Hudson, the Pirates are positioned not just to compete, but to contend for the title. After climbing the ranks of Class A and now Class 2A, this season feels different in every way. From the chemistry on the field to the confidence in the dugout, all signs point toward a squad hungry to make history.
The journey to this year’s tournament has been forged in the fire of prior disappointment. In 2023, Preston’s fall campaign ended abruptly in the Class A quarterfinals, with a 16-7 loss to perennial powerhouse Oktaha. In 2024, the Pirates, newly moved up to Class 2A, again fell short in the first round, losing 6-1 to Dale.
But each loss brought valuable experience – battle-tested moments that have shaped this year’s veteran-heavy roster. The Pirates didn’t just regroup after those defeats – they redefined their game. The result has been a dominant regular season that saw Preston win 29 of 30 games, outscoring opponents by large margins and consistently delivering strong performances on both sides of the diamond.
— Balanced, Deep, Determined
What separates the 2025 squad from its predecessors is its roster depth and strategic consistency. This team isn’t relying on a few standout players. Instead, it’s a collective force – batters who produce top to bottom, and pitchers who can go deep into games or come in for key relief moments.
The defense has been nearly impenetrable, with multiple shutouts recorded during the regular season. Offensively, Preston’s bats have ignited early in games, establishing leads that opponents struggled to overcome. It’s a roster built not just for winning but for weathering the intensity of tournament baseball, where every pitch, every at-bat, and every out carries weight.
— State Championship Path
Preston opens tournament play on Thursday, Oct. 9, at 11 a.m., facing Colbert at Yukon High School. Should they advance, the Pirates will play again on Friday at 12 noon against the winner of the Byng vs. Calera matchup.
The championship game is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 11, at 5 p.m. at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark in Oklahoma City.
— State Tournament Overview
• Quarterfinal: Preston vs. Colbert @ Yukon High School; Thursday, Oct. 9, 11 a.m.
• Semifinal: Preston vs. Byng/Calera @ Yukon High School; Friday, Oct. 10, 12 p.m.
• Championship: TBD @ Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, OKC; Saturday, Oct. 11, 5 p.m.
— Historic Numbers & The Bigger Picture This marks Preston’s 10th appearance in the OSSAA Fall Baseball State Tournament.
The 2023 and 2024 squads laid the groundwork for what could be a defining season in Pirate baseball history. A win on Thursday would be more than just a ticket to the semifinal – it would represent the program’s growth, maturity, and determination to evolve from contenders to champions.
— Meet the 2025 Preston Pirates Here is the full roster for the Preston Varsity Pirates as they take the field in pursuit of a state title: #1 Nick Costanza #2 Kaden Dean #7 Rickey Hinson #9 Braxton Clarkson #12 Hunter McElhannon #13 Karson Herbert #18 Pepper Gallup #21 Weston Cope #22 Bryce McNac #23 Jace Basquez #27 Reid Dean Blake Kennedy Ethan Bunner Jace Dixon Mason Bailey Peyton Fjeldsted Tyler Stevenson
Roster provided by GameChanger — Fan & Ticket Information
• Admission: $10 (online), $13 (cash)
• Tickets: Available at ossaa.com
• Seating: Preston will be on the third base dugout side in their opener
• Merchandise: Official OSSAA State Tournament gear by Fine Designs will be available for purchase onsite -For two years, Preston has arrived at the doorstep of greatness only to be turned away. Now, armed with experience, confidence and one of the most dominant seasons in school history, they return not just to participate but to win.
Three appearances. Three chances. This time, it feels different.
With a 29-1 record and a path ahead that includes familiar foes and potential redemption, the 2025 Preston Pirates are ready to seize their moment.
