WILLIAMSTOWN, MA — Four members of the Williams College baseball team have been named to the 2025 All-NESCAC First Team. Sophomore pitcher
Owen McHugh captured one of the league's top individual honors as NESCAC Co-Pitcher of the Year. Senior catcher
Henry Juan, senior first baseman
James O'Connor, and sophomore outfielder
Ryan Nakajima were voted onto to the All-NESCAC First Team by the conference coaches.
Owen McHugh, a sophomore two-way player from Milton, Massachusetts, was named NESCAC Co-Pitcher of the Year and earned First Team All-NESCAC honors for the first time in his career. McHugh posted a league-best 2.27 ERA and tied for second in the conference with 53 strikeouts over 39.2 innings, anchoring the Ephs' rotation all season. Known for his command, poise, and competitive fire, McHugh became a go-to arm in high-leverage moments. "Owen is a special talent," said Eph head coach
Bill Barrale. "His command and presence on the mound is outstanding. He's such a great competitor."
Henry Juan, a senior catcher from Big Flats, New York, earned his second straight All-NESCAC First Team nod after another stellar season behind the plate. Juan hit .341 with a 1.011 OPS and broke the school career record for doubles (50), while also driving in 30 runs and playing elite defense. He caught nearly every game, expertly managing the pitching staff and controlling the running game. "Henry is an outstanding catcher," said Barrale. "He did a great job with our pitching staff, always kept the ball in front of him, and broke our school record for doubles. What an amazing career."
James O'Connor, the senior first baseman from West Newton, Massachusetts, was also named to the All-NESCAC First Team, capping a remarkable comeback season. After battling injuries early in his career, O'Connor emerged as one of the most consistent power hitters in the league, hitting .323 with eight home runs and 41 RBIs, while committing only two errors at first base. "I'm so happy for James," Barrale shared. "He battled injuries his entire career, so this season he put together is special. Only two errors and eight homers — so fun to watch!"
Ryan Nakajima, a sophomore Outfielder from Bothell, Washington, earned All-NESCAC First Team honors after delivering a stellar offensive season. Nakajima led the Ephs in batting average (.396), RBIs (42) and slugging (.564), as well as posting an OPS over 1.000. His consistency in the heart of the order gave Williams a steady offensive spark. "Ryan played in all 37 games!" said Barrale. "He had a tremendous season and just got better and better as the season progressed."
Together, McHugh, Juan, O'Connor, and Nakajima helped propel the Ephs to a 21–16 record and a NESCAC Championship game appearance. With leadership, resilience, and standout talent across the roster, the 2025 Ephs put together a phenomenal season.
