Copper Basin News
Hayden senior Steven Butler struck-out 16 hitters in an extra-innings win over Mesa Prep last week. The Lobos won in eight innings, 8 – 7. Butler, a four-year varsity player, pitched a complete game to earn the victory in his last outing as a Lobo.
The 16 strikeouts are a new career high. His previous high was 13.
“Yeah, I did,” Butler answered when asked if he felt differently in his final start than previous outings. “I just felt better that day.”
Even though he was disappointed that the Lobos did not reach the state playoffs this year, Butler is grateful for his time in the Lobos’ baseball program.
“Since my freshman year I’ve learned a lot and my coaches have taught me a lot,” Butler said. “I became a better all-around baseball player. I’ve also learned to help younger kids on and off the field.”
Butler will attend Central Arizona College and said he would consider playing baseball there if the opportunity arises.
If baseball is not in his future, he is satisfied with the memory he created last week in his final high school appearance – an extra-inning complete game victory with a career high in strikeouts.
Not a bad way to end a career.