Owls’ Daniels, Luetto Garner Pre-Season All-American Recognition

Two Citrus College Baseball sophomores, Jordan Daniels and Conner Luetto, have been named 2026 CCCBCA Pre-Season All-Americans ahead of the upcoming season.

Both players transferred from Chaffey College, where they helped the Panthers compile a 34-11-1 record and capture their third consecutive Inland Empire Athletic Conference championship.

Daniels, an outfielder from Ramona High School, batted .388 with a .522 on-base percentage and a .573 slugging percentage in 2025, totaling 40 hits, 28 runs, 24 RBIs, 13 extra-base hits, and five stolen bases. He also earned Inland Empire All-Conference Second Team honors.

On being named a preseason All-American, Daniels said, "I think it's an ode to just how hard we work day in and day out—the practice we put in with our coaches and teammates. This isn't just a testament to my work, but to my team as a whole. I give it to God, my family, and my team."

Daniels added that he focused on the mental side of baseball during the offseason: "I've learned how to conduct myself through adversity, hold myself accountable, and support my brothers on the team. I really focused on staying calm in tough situations and being ready for the moment."

He is also excited about the team dynamic this season: "This team's a family. Being part of something bigger than myself and having a group of guys working together toward a goal is incredible. We know when to focus and when to have fun, and that's what makes this team so special."

Luetto, a right-handed pitcher from Orange Lutheran High School, posted a 2.13 ERA over 50.2 innings in 2025, striking out 41 batters (7.28 K/9) and earning four wins. He was named to the Inland Empire All-Conference First Team.

On his preseason All-American honor, Luetto said, "It's a cool opportunity to be recognized for what we've accomplished, but it's just the start. Being an All-American is great, but the goal is never to be satisfied."

During the offseason, Luetto focused on maintaining health and preparing for Citrus College's 40-game schedule. "My focus was staying mentally and physically prepared for what the season throws at us. Forty games in three months is tough, so being ready for anything is key," he said.

Luetto also highlighted the camaraderie of his teammates: "Prioritizing being a good teammate first is what's most exciting. No one here is putting themselves over the team, and that shared mindset is what makes this group special."

Head coach Andy Smith, entering his first season at Citrus College, praised both players: "Jordan and Conner are preseason All-Americans, not just because of their talent, but because of their superior intangibles. They go about their work the right way every day. Their confidence and humility are contagious, and they are truly deserving of this recognition."

The Owls open the 2026 season at home with preseason games on Saturday, Jan. 17, against Mt. San Jacinto and Tuesday, Jan. 20, against San Diego Mesa, both at 12 p.m., before hosting Fullerton College on Opening Day, Friday, Jan. 23, at 1 p.m