The Rafters are excited to welcome another trio of west coast players to Wisconsin Rapids in Wyatt Bush, Chris Conniff, and Jacob Igawa.
Bush is a freshman at UC Irvine. He had a very decorated high school career, including being named a three-time All-League selection and to the Riverside All-Star team as a senior. Bush was also ranked by Perfect game as the 32nd ranked shortstop and 129th player in the state of California. He is a big fan of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Atlanta Falcons, and Giants shortstop, Brandon Crawford.
“Playing in college so far has taught me to not take plays or pitches off and hustle all of the time,” said Bush. “I am looking forward to playing in new places, new stadiums and in front of and with new players. I am excited to get to play in Wisconsin Rapids and I couldn’t think of a better place to spend this upcoming summer.”
Chris Conniff is entering his sophomore season at St. John’s. He had a solid freshman campaign in which the shortstop hit .270 with 6 RBIs and scored 6 runs. Conniff also was very dependable with the glove, as he recorded a .925 fielding percentage. His favorite moment in sports is when he got to play at Dodger Stadium for the CIF Finals.
“I am looking forward to seeing the high-level competition in the Northwoods League,” said Conniff. “I have always heard great things about the league and how it helps players prepare for what’s next whether it’s the next year of college baseball or Minor Leagues. I’m just excited to see what the Northwoods has in store for me and my teammates.”
Jacob Igawa is a junior at the University of Hawaii. His 2021 season was his first year at Hawaii, and the utility player made the most of it as he hit .321 with three homers and 23 RBIs. Igawa has also attended Pacific University and the University of Hawaii-Hilo. He has played college baseball at all three levels, from Division-III to Division-I, and was named the valedictorian of his graduating high school class.
“I am looking forward to playing against some of the best college talent in the nation,” said Igawa. “I have learned that college baseball is a relatively short period in my life, and I have been learning to enjoy and appreciate everything that comes with playing college baseball. While playing for the Rafters, I want to soak in and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Aloha from Hawaii and see you this summer!”
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Author: David Keech
David Keech is a retired teacher and works as a sportswriter, sports official and as an educational consultant. He has reported on amateur sports since 2011, known as 'KeechDaVoice.' David can be reached at [email protected]
