Hudson Alpert, a senior at Regis Jesuit High School and a standout pitcher in Colorado prep baseball, is focusing on becoming an all-around player as he recovers from an elbow injury that has kept him off the mound. Alpert spoke about his situation on March 31, saying he is working to contribute in other ways while awaiting medical clearance to pitch again.
Alpert’s shift in focus comes at a crucial time for both himself and his team. Regis Jesuit has finished as Class 5A state runner-up for two consecutive years and holds high expectations this season. While pitching remains his primary skill—he is committed to play at Vanderbilt University—Alpert has been contributing significantly as a hitter and infielder during his recovery.
“It stinks that I can’t be on the mound, but I’m trying to make the most of it,” Alpert said from Cary, North Carolina, where Regis Jesuit was participating in the National High School Invitational. “I’m trying to develop into an all-around guy and see the game from all different positions and angles.” He added, “Obviously, I’d like to be out there pitching, but right now I want to do anything I can to stay involved in the game, rather than just sit on the bench waiting to recover.”
Coach Matt Darr said having Alpert available—even outside of pitching—has been valuable for Regis Jesuit’s offense and defense. In early games against Colorado teams this season, Alpert recorded nine hits in twelve at-bats with three doubles, one home run, five runs batted in (RBIs), five runs scored, and strong defensive play at second base. Darr said: “When you take pitching away, this is Hudson’s only opportunity to contribute. I think we may look back on this as a blessing because it made him a better player. Obviously, he’s not going to hit at Vanderbilt, but right now he’s definitely become more of a complete player.”
Despite missing their top pitcher from the rotation so far this year due to injury recovery after Ulnar Collateral Ligament surgery (“Tommy John Lite”), Regis Jesuit’s pitching staff remains strong with contributions from Mikey Kroll—who threw a complete game last postseason—and juniors Cade Filleman and Ryan Neumann among others.
Alpert hopes his return will coincide with key playoff games later this spring. He aims not only for personal success but also hopes “to end the season by helping Regis Jesuit secure the elusive state championship before he moves on to Vanderbilt,” ultimately aspiring toward a career in Major League Baseball.
