Robles, Juarez Ready for Next Level

Two more Citrus College baseball players are ready to continue their collegiate careers as Roman Robles heads to New Mexico Highlands and Aaron Juarez commits to Westcliff University.

Robles finished a two-year career with the Owls, appearing in 62 games in the outfield. He leaves Citrus with a .359 career batting average and 38 hits, including nine doubles, two triples, and three home runs. This past year, Robles scored 22 runs and hit nine RBIs.

"My time at Citrus was probably one of the best experiences of my life," said Robles. "I met so many lifelong friends/brothers and everyone there helped shape me into who I am today! I wouldn't be standing where I am without Citrus. Even if we didn't have the year we wanted/ deserved, we had each other and went through everything together and for that, I am eternally grateful!

Robles heads to NCAA Division II New Mexico Highlands, looking to make an impact right away.

"I am extremely blessed and proud that I get to continue my career at NMHU," added Robles. "I feel as if it is part of my responsibility to continue the legacy I obtained from Citrus. The way I see it, I owe it to all my boys – especially the ones who picked up the ball competitively for the last time at Citrus – to give everything I have and leave it all out on the field no matter the circumstance!"

Juarez made 24 appearances on the mound for the Owls over the past two seasons, finishing with three career wins and a 7.92 career ERA. This past year, he went undefeated and boasted a 5.30 ERA with 28 strikeouts.

"I'll always cherish those bonds I made with new teammates and even got to reconnect with some old ones at Citrus," said Juarez. "The baseball aspect of things didn't exactly go our way, but it was still a fun time being out there with the guys every day."

Juarez stays fairly local, heading to NAIA Westcliff University in Irvine.

"I'm feeling good about Westcliff, the coach seems awesome, the field is nice, and they're coming off a decent year," added Juarez. "I'm hoping to have a little more control over the way I pitch and turn things around for myself these next two years!"