TYLER, TX — April 4, 2025 — Former Livingston High School standout Simon Hughes earned his first collegiate pitching win on Monday, helping lift Tyler Junior College (TJC) to a 7-2 victory over McLennan Community College in a strong midseason performance.
A redshirt freshman for the Apaches, Hughes entered the game in the top of the fifth inning with the bases loaded and the pressure mounting. Though he walked the first batter he faced—allowing one run to score—he quickly settled down and forced a flyout to end the threat.
From there, Hughes delivered 2 1/3 scoreless innings of relief, holding McLennan hitless while striking out four and walking two. His poise on the mound helped shift the momentum in favor of the Apaches, who were clinging to a narrow lead before extending it with a late offensive surge.
“Simon really gave us a lift,” TJC head coach Doug Wren said after the game. “Coming in with the bases loaded is never easy, and he showed a lot of maturity and control. It was a great outing for him.”
Hughes’ performance didn’t go unnoticed, especially among fans in Livingston who have followed his journey from high school to junior college baseball. Known for his command and work ethic, Hughes has been steadily earning innings out of the bullpen for TJC this season, with previous appearances against Paris Junior College and Northeast Texas Community College.
Offensively, the Apaches were led by another local talent—Preston Newberry, a former Tyler Legacy Red Raider—who broke the game open with a two-run double in the later innings. The team’s balanced effort on the mound and at the plate secured an important win as they move deeper into regional play.
TJC, a perennial contender in NJCAA Region XIV, improved its overall record with the win and continues to develop depth in both its pitching staff and lineup. For Hughes, it was not only a personal milestone but a sign of growing confidence from the coaching staff.
“It’s great to finally get that first win under my belt,” Hughes said. “But more importantly, it feels good to contribute to the team and be part of something special here at TJC.”
The Apaches will return to action later this week as they look to maintain their momentum in what is shaping up to be a competitive season.