2026: Hayes appeared in all 56 games for Azusa Pacific, serving as one of the Cougars’ top power bats and everyday first baseman. He hit .283 with 62 hits, 13 doubles, one triple, 15 home runs, and 44 RBIs while scoring 50 runs. He also posted a .922 OPS and a .557 slugging percentage.Defensively, Hayes was a steady presence at first base, recording 400 putouts, 24 assists, and a .991 fielding percentage while helping turn 39 double plays.
2025: Hayes put together one of the most prolific freshman campaigns in program history, appearing in all 50 games and starting 50. He was named the 2025 PacWest Freshman of the Year and a First Team All-PacWest selection after leading the team in several offensive categories. Hayes batted .332 with 63 hits, including 9 doubles and a team-high 19 home runs, which ranked among the top in the conference. He anchored the middle of the order with 46 RBIs and a massive .689 slugging percentage, while also proving to be a premier defender at first base with a .992 fielding percentage (360 putouts, 14 assists).
Prior to APU
Hayes arrived at Azusa Pacific as a decorated multi-sport athlete from the Pacific Northwest, having redshirted his first year (2024) to develop before his breakout 2025 season.
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High School Honors: Named the 2023 Skagit County Male Athlete of the Year. In baseball, he was an All-State selection and the Skagit County Player of the Year after batting .382 and striking out 54 batters in 49 innings on the mound.
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Basketball Standout: A dominant forward who averaged 13 points and 7 rebounds as a senior, leading Anacortes to a 21-4 record and the state 2A playoffs.
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Scouting Profile: Ranked as the #7 first baseman in Washington by Perfect Game; showcased elite raw power with a 96 mph exit velocity and a 6'5" frame that scouts noted for its high ceiling.
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Legacy: A second-generation Cougar; his mother, Shannon Solway, was an All-GSAC basketball player for Azusa Pacific in the 1990s.
Personal Born on December 1, 2004, Jacob is the son of Brian and Shannon Hayes and has two older brothers, Daniel and Andrew. He is majoring in Business Management and enjoys playing golf and pickleball in his free time.
Fun Fact: Was a high school basketball star who led his team to the state tournament while being named the county's top overall male athlete.
