- April 18, 2024
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WINTER GARDEN Junior pitcher Doug Nikhazy achieved a first for the baseball program at West Orange High over the past two weeks, pitching consecutive no-hitters.
Nikhazy, this week's Observer Preps Athlete of the Week, no-hit the Wekiva Mustangs March 31 in a 13-0 win for the Warriors that lasted five innings. Against Lake Brantley April 7, Nikhazy again tossed a no-hitter in a 10-0 win that also lasted five innings.
The Warriors are 17-3 so far this spring and head coach Jesse Marlo says Nikhazy's accomplishment is a special one.
"That one is definitely up there at the top," Marlo said. "That's definitely something that has never been done here (at West Orange) before and it's something I've never seen as a coach. Definitely pretty impressive."
For Nikhazy, an Ole Miss commit, the achievement wasn't just exciting for its surface value, but also because it came against district opponents as the Warriors look to return to state this spring.
"The timing of it is what makes me excited," Nikhazy said. "I know I have the ability to go out there and not give up any hits. For me, it's just the timing of it and how it all worked out, doing it in a big game."
The game against the Patriots stands out, in particular, because first place in the ultra-competitive District 9A-3 was on the line. The Warriors pummeled their visitors from Lake Brantley, though, with Nikhazy's performance on the mound setting the tone.
"The key was just commanding the fastball — that was what really worked the best," Nikhazy said. "When that happens, I can build off everything else."
Nikhazy brings value to the Warriors beyond his work on the mound, too, consistently proving to be one of West Orange's stronger bats at the plate and a competent right fielder.
That said, Marlo and his staff are excited to see what the lefty can continue to do as he grows in his mastery of the game at the varsity level.
"When his stuff is on, he is pretty tough to beat," Marlo said.
Contact Steven Ryzewski at [email protected]
