After a less than impressive preseason, the Yreka Miners baseball team is sitting on top of the Northern Athletic League with a record of 5-0. Watching the turn around, I’ve been thinking there’s definitely a Miner deserving of an Impact Player Award, but which one? I could think of at least three or four possibilities. So, I decided to consult with Miner Coach Jason Frietas.

When I asked him about which player he thought deserved the Impact Award the most, Frietas asked, “This is the one with T-Shirt and article and everything?”

“Yes,” I said.

Frietas didn’t hesitate, “Zach. He’s my leader. He’s Mr. Everything. He comes early and stays late.”

So, Zach Salverstro it is, and the stats back up Frietas’ statement.

Salvestro is either first or second for the Miner starters in every offensive category. He’s either first or tied for first in runs scored, hits, extra base hits, home runs, and on base percentage. Salvestro is second or tied for second on the team in batting average, RBI, walks, slugging percentage, and steals. Defensively, he has the third best fielding percentage, while playing multiple positions.

The numbers say it, and with the coach’s recommendation, it’s clear that Zach Salvestro is an Impact Player.

The Impact Player Award is given on a monthly basis and goes to Siskiyou County high school athletes, male or female, that have had a significant impact on the success of their team. I select the players based on my own observations, sometimes in consultation with the player’s coaches.

Up to four awards may be given each month and are not school specific; they can go to a player at any school that Siskiyou Youth covers. Winners receive Impact T-shirts that were designed by Golden Grotto. The T-shirts and award are cosponsored by SiskiyouYouth.com and NorCal Classic Hits radio, KCWH, 102.3/101.7