Don Lugo senior Albert Rizo is one of those diamonds in the rough. He just started pitching at the end of his junior year and the Conquistadores had a lot of seniors in the other positions so it wasn’t until this year that he started seeing much playing time at the varsity level.
But NCAA Division II Cal State Los Angeles sees his potential and Rizo has decided that’s the next step for him.
He was also considering several community colleges but like the opportunity to play baseball for the Eagles will pursuing a degree in criminal justice.
“I like the chance to go there from both an athletic and academic standpoint,” he said. “I think I can really develop there.”
Don Lugo coach Jeff Abel said his player can throw 88 mph and that is with little experience and work on the mechanics of the position.
Abel admitted a red-shirt might be in the players’ best interest so he can develop at that position but sees great potential.
“His best years are definitely ahead of him. He needs some confidence and some experience working at that position and he can be very good. We just started working with him at the end of last year and he has already come a long way.”
Rizo was 3-0 with an 0.61 ERA in 23 innings with 24 strikeouts in helping the Conquistadores to a 23-4 record and Mt. Baldy League championship,.
