An interview with newly committed LHP Isaiah Salas, who will pitch for SDSU next season. 

The San Diego State Aztecs baseball program is on the upswing with second-year coach Shaun Cole.

Isaiah Salas is a left-handed pitcher from Woodlands, Texas. He attends The Woodlands High School, where he pitches and plays first base as well as the outfield.

The 2025 graduate is described as a very polished pitcher with a decent upside. At 5-foot-11 and 193 lbs, he possesses a medium build but gets the most out of his mechanics. The Aztecs are pleased with his academic abilities as well as the fact he gets batters out with ease.

He uses a compact delivery and hides the ball very well. Hitters are deceived by this young pitcher who is just that- a pitcher. Some young players are described as throwers, but Salas is one who uses his mind while he is out on the mound. He changes speed effectively and does so really well on his tight-breaking slider.

Salas is a strike-thrower who tops out in the high 80s with his fastball. In time, he will hit 90 mph-plus consistently.

He grew up in Northern California and remembers playing baseball as one of his earliest memories. Salas played baseball throughout his childhood and has always been on the mound. This is probably why he is described as a natural pitcher. The lefty knows how to get batters out efficiently. He’s done it his whole life,

Isaiah Salas is very respectful. He is wise beyond his years. In his senior year of high school, Salas is in baseball season right now. It is an important year for the lefty as he builds character towards a career with the Aztecs and beyond. His goal is to pitch professionally one day, and with a little luck, that will happen.

Jack Wilhoit also committed to SDSU and is from the 2026 class. This duo will undoubtedly compete for rotation spots in 2027 when both pitchers are expected to be on campus.

The future looks bright for SDSU baseball.

Here is a little more on the left-handed talent from Texas- Isaiah Salas.

Why did you choose SDSU? What about the school and city did you like?

“SDSU is the right fit for me academically and athletically. The baseball program has a rich history and a beautiful campus, and the beaches are a short drive away. Plus, being in San Diego means enjoying the great weather and lifestyle I grew up in. It’s always been a dream school of mine, and it feels like the perfect place to grow as a person and player while also getting a quality education.”

Did any of the SDSU coaches bond with you?

“Oh, for sure, Coach McDougal and Coach Cole are very approachable and make me feel comfortable whenever I’m talking to them. They took the time to show me around the facilities and campus, and our personal connection helped me feel what it would be like to be a part of their family at SDSU.”

How was your experience at the Arizona Fall Classic?

“The Arizona Fall Classic was incredible. I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated. Competing alongside some of the best players in the nation was a great experience and gave me a hint of what the talent will be like in college. The chance to form connections with athletes I’ll face in the upcoming high school season was enjoyable and beneficial. Overall, the tournament challenged me to elevate my performance, offering constructive feedback that has been instrumental in my growth as a player.”

Describe your style of pitching to someone who has never seen you pitch.

“I approach pitching with a focus on helping my team win ball games. I stay calm on the mound and trust my mechanics to execute efficient outings. By using power and precision, I keep hitters off balance and consistently challenge them at the plate.”

What are your biggest strengths in the game?

“My command and consistency. I am able to focus on delivering strikes in high-pressure situations by keeping my composure and trusting my mechanics.”

What do you need to work on to improve in baseball?

“I’m always looking to refine my off-speed pitches. While my slider is a strength, I’d love to continue improving and develop a stronger changeup to keep hitters guessing.”

Where does your motivation come from in baseball? 

“A lot of my motivation comes from within. I’ve always had a deep love for the game, and I push myself to get better every day. My parents have been a huge support system, always encouraging me to work hard and follow my dreams. My coaches have also helped me shape my mindset to keep my goals in sight and to block out all distractions that will slow down my journey to the MLB.”

Errors happen from your defense. Bad calls behind the plate are real. How do you calm yourself on the mound when this happens?

“I just focus on the next pitch. My high school coaches preach a saying called, “So what, Next Pitch.” We have it in our locker room, our dugout, and in the weight room. It’s important not to dwell on mistakes because that can throw you off. I take a deep breath, clear my head, and remind myself that I can still control what happens next. Staying focused and positive is key.”

You have California roots. Tell me about that.

“Being from California has definitely shaped my style and approach to the game. I grew up playing baseball in a competitive environment, surrounded by great talent, which has helped push me to get better. I also love the fun-loving yet driven culture that California brings to sports. It’s a good balance to have.”

Hitting. Any ambition to do that at the collegiate level?

“I switched from two-way to PO about two years ago, and it was probably one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’ve always enjoyed hitting, though, and it’s definitely something I miss, but I’m set right now on being a PO at SDSU.”

You are described as a polished pitcher. How does that make you feel?

“It’s humbling to hear that. It means I’m on the right track, but there’s always room for improvement. Being described as polished tells me that I’m doing the right kind of work, which drives me to keep improving.”

Your slider is a plus pitch right now. Did anyone work with you on throwing the slider?

“Yes, I’ve worked on my slider with pitching coach David Clyde. He was a pitcher for the Texas Rangers, and he helped me refine my grip and use it to create sharp movement. It took a lot of time to get it to where it is now, but I’m proud of its development.”

What are your goals once you reach SDSU?

“My main goal is to contribute to the team right away. I’m also looking forward to becoming a more well-rounded player, not just as a pitcher but as a leader and teammate.”

Here is a look at Salas on the mound. Enjoy.

You notice the clean mechanics and ability to throw strikes.

He spins the slider well and uses a 3/4 motion to create deception. A refinement of a third pitch will be needed for ultimate success, but there is a lot to like about this lefty.

James Clark

James was born and raised in America’s Finest City. He is a passionate baseball fan with even more passion towards his hometown Padres. James has written about the Padres and their prospects for over a decade. He also writes about San Diego State as well as other local sports. James is the Editor-In-Chief of EastVillageTimes.com. Always striving to bring you the highest quality in San Diego Sports News. Original content, with original ideas, that’s our motto. Enjoy.