Sand Springs’ Dom Ornelas has proved to be one of the premier hitters in the state.

Last year as a junior, the middle-of-the-lineup weapon and catcher for the Sandites posted 14 multi-hit games, hit .420, belted 11 home runs and had 20 doubles to help lead Sand Springs to a 31-8 mark.

Ornelas, who will continue his baseball career at Northern Oklahoma College (Enid), went 4 for 5, hit a pair of home runs and drove in five runs in the Sandites’ season-ending loss to Enid in a Class 6A Regional Tournament last season, and had season highs in hits (five) and RBIs (six) against Putnam City North. He also knocked in five runs in Sand Spring’s season opener against Shawnee in 2022.

Sand Springs is off to a 3-1 start in 2023 under head coach Matt Brown.

Ornelas was also a standout defensive lineman for the Sandites in his final season. He led the Sandites with 11.5 tackles for losses and 5.5 quarterback sacks. He finished with 46 total tackles, 10 quarterback hurries, forced two caused fumbles and had a fumble recovery.

How long have you played baseball?

Dom: I have played baseball for 12 years.

What professional athlete do you model your game after?

Dom: JJ Watt because he is a humble hard working guy.

What is your favorite drill to do in training?

Dom: Favorite drill is high tee.

What are your strengths and what have you improved on the most over the course of your high school career?

Dom: Being a strong physical guy but I have had to learn to control that.

What are your thoughts on the upcoming season up from both an individual and team standpoint?

Dom: Individually, I feel like I’m in a good spot, especially coming off of last year, and as a team, we are young but we have a bunch of guys that are gritty and ready to compete with the best.

What’s your most memorable moment during your high school baseball career?

Dom: Being able to host a baseball regional last year.

What do you love most about being a student-athlete at your school?

Dom: I love being a student athlete because it gives me the opportunity to not only represent the school but the community as well.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Dom: When I’m not on the field I enjoy duck hunting with buddies.

What qualities do you think make someone a good teammate or leader?

Dom: Having the ability to have fun but also being able to be serious and get stuff done when it’s time to be serious.

Is there a particular game or tournament that you’re excited for this season?

Dom: I’m excited to go to Florida for our spring break trip.