Ahead of the Hawai'i baseball team's 2025 season opening weekend, we take a look at breakdowns of each position group.
Hawai'i's outfield in 2025 is built on athleticism, versatility, and an infusion of both veteran leadership and promising newcomers. Head coach
Rich Hill emphasizes speed, defensive prowess, and a disciplined offensive approach, all of which define this group.
"It's about following the rules on the offensive side, the defensive side, the base running side and in the dugout side of things when you're a position player, said Hill. "So effort, enthusiasm, preparation, execution, and attitude are the only expectations that we have."
Leading the charge is
Matthew Miura, coming off a breakout sophomore season in which he earned honorable mention All-Big West honors. Miura is one of just two players to start all 53 games. He hit .303 with 41 RBIs, a team-high 49 runs scored, and four triples. He also led the team with 40 walks and swiped 15 bases, making him a key table-setter in the lineup.
Defensively, Miura was flawless in center field, handling 116 chances without committing an error. His ability to impact games on both sides of the ball makes him one of the most exciting returners in the Big West.
"Just kind of a toolsy player that can really go get it in center field, supreme defensive skills and at the plate, he always seems to find a way on base. He's got surprising power. Loves to steal bases and plays with a real fire in his belly," said Hill.
Another returning leader is
Jared Quandt, a powerful presence at the plate who finished the 2024 season strong. He hit .295 with three home runs, 16 RBIs, and six doubles. Over his final eight games, he batted .391 with two homers and six RBIs, showing his ability to deliver in key moments. His experience and bat will be crucial in the lineup. Coach Hill notes that Quandt is Hawai'i's best defensive outfielder, excelling at tracking balls and making smart plays. "He takes great routes. Makes extremely smart throws to the right base. It's always a long hop or a no hop," Hill said.
Among the key newcomers is
Jack Salmon, a standout from Golden West College who brings a potent offensive track record. Named the Orange Empire League Co-MVP in 2024, Salmon hit .361 with 11 home runs, 45 RBIs, and a .462 OBP. He delivered in big moments, recording 17 multi-hit games, helping lead Golden West to a CCCAA Super Regional appearance.
Joining Salmon as a JUCO addition is
Will Bowen, who played last season at the College of San Mateo. A high-contact hitter, Bowen batted .363 with 44 RBIs and 16 doubles. His ability to put the ball in play and get on base (.452 OBP) will give Hawai'i another steady offensive weapon.
Another bat to watch is
Britton Beeson, who finished fourth in the Orange Empire Conference in home runs last season with 11, while driving in 52 runs. His power potential will give the Rainbow Warriors an added offensive boost.
Depth in the outfield will also come from
Kamana Nahaku, a versatile player who has demonstrated strong defensive instincts and the ability to cover ground in late-game situations. Nahaku played in 34 games during the 2024 season, earning three starts and contributing as a pinch-runner. Known for his speed and reliable glove, Nahaku adds to Hawaii's outfield with his ability to make smart plays and track down balls.
With Miura's all-around excellence, Quandt's power surge, and a trio of JUCO additions bringing experience and firepower, Hawai'i's outfield is shaping up to be a dynamic unit capable of making a major impact in 2025.
| No. |
Name |
Ht. |
Wt. |
B/T |
Cl. |
Notables |
| 4 |
Ben Zeigler-Namoa |
6-1 |
195 |
L/L |
Sr. |
Cape Cod League All-Star; will also see time in INF |
| 5 |
Draven Nushida |
5-10 |
170 |
L/R |
Jr. |
2 seasons at Cal State Fullerton; will also play INF |
| 15 |
Jack Salmon |
6-3 |
215 |
L/R |
Jr. |
Orange Empire co-MVP; .327 career JUCO average |
| 20 |
Will Bowen |
6-0 |
180 |
L/L |
Jr. |
.369 career JUCO average |
| 21 |
Jared Quandt |
6-1 |
190 |
S/R |
Sr. |
Career .300 hitter; 104 career GP |
| 24 |
Britton Beeson |
6-2 |
205 |
R/R |
Jr. |
Orange Empire MVP in '23; 23 career HRs |
| 25 |
Kamana Nahaku |
5-10 |
185 |
R/R |
Sr. |
34 GP in 2024, two starts |
| 37 |
Matthew Miura |
5-11 |
185 |
R/R |
Jr. |
HM All-Big West in '24; started all 53 games in CF |
