Senior, Jake Carrillo, 17  signed with Saint Leo University on Wednesday, February 1 on a baseball scholarship.  Jake, a humble and grateful player, has always put his team above self, and is thrilled with the new opportunity that is ahead of him.  

Jake began playing t-ball  at 9 years old, and work his was through little league, travel and high school ball, to earn a position in collegiate ball with Saint Leo University.  Even though he began playing at 9, he played just for fun, however, it turned into a passion.  By high school Jake’s baseball career was taking off. Baseball was more than an afterschool activity, it was something he was dedicated to.

Coach Merrell recalls moments where Jake showed intense levels of maturity and dedication. He explained “ the first conversation we had was about what he could do to help the team get better and to help him out.” Coach continued, “Not many players have the want to get the field and environment better but Jake does”. Every single day Carrillo found different ways to prove himself. Whether it was watering the field, helping teammates out, or being positive he was always doing his part. His coach believes that Jake was “taking his job away.”

“The most memorable thing for me playing for Chapel was winning the district championship,” he added,” I just love playing with my team. It was just like having fun with everyone.”

In addition to mentoring his teammates, Jake also was a inspiration to his younger, Mills Carrillo, who also plays baseball. Jake, was a positive role model for his brother, as he grew up watching his brother play. Unfortunately, they never had the opportunity to play together, but they did train together daily.

Jake’s parents have been extremely supportive throughout his entire baseball career, giving up weekends to travel for away and early games.  Mrs. Carrillo, Jake’s Mom explained, “Giving up weekends, weekdays, and traveling for games and tournaments to watch him play was challenging at times with three kids, but it was worth it to watch him play the game he loves and continue to grow as a player.” They’ve worked very hard and installed Jake with the confidence he needs to succeed. Mrs. Carrillo continued, “We always taught Jake to work hard, never give up, and to be humble.”

Not only did Jake succeed on the field, but also off the field.  Jake  was always making sure that his academics came first. As a result, Jake performance throughout the years has earned him a 3.8 grade point average and the affection of many of his teachers. 

His signing was proof that if you work hard and have a good mentality, you can go far.  Over the summer Carrillo was offered his spot on the Saint Leo Lions baseball team. A coach had seen him play and knew they had to take him before someone else did. Jake says “the coach saw me shine.” Jake says he knew he was going to get signed during his sophomore year because of his strong desire to compete and his dream came true. He recommends that everyone should work hard to achieve their goals. He continued “to never give up and continue to push.”

He works just as hard in the classroom as he does on the field and college will not change that. Fortunately he’s had some practice managing home and school life but Carrillo believes schedules are the key to his college success. He plans on studying sports business and later hopes to go pro.

Jake Carrillo has proven time and time again that he is willing and ready to work and play hard. He has an incredibly promising career ahead of him. 

Jake stated, “I just can’t wait to keep playing ball in college.”

Jake Carrillo Career Stats at Wesley Chapel High  (4 years)

• Batting Average .320
• On base percentage .386
• Hits 40
• RBIS 33
• Runs 27
• Pitching Averages
• 1.88 ERA with only 20 strike outs in only 9 appearances