“My dad has taught me everything I know and I always go to him for advice and input whether it’s hitting or defense or baserunning,” Haller said.
The current Western Kentucky Hilltopper started his baseball journey at La Mirada Little League in Southern California playing for his Dad David primarily at second base. Nearly everyday Haller went home to take more swings in his batting cage in his backyard.
He continued playing with his Dad at Sonora High School. David has coached at Sonora for nearly 20 years. The Haller’s found success together winning back to back league titles Austin’s Junior and Senior seasons.
Haller racked up accolades including league MVP, defensive player of the year, and playing in the Orange County All-Star game his senior year.
After high school Haller continued playing at Santa Ana Community College where he starred in two seasons. In 2023 Haller batted .330 with 69 hits, 55 runs, 43 RBIs, seven HR and a .940 OPS in 51 games played. His offensive prowess helped the Dons win the California Community College Athletic Association State Championship in 2023 for the fourth time in school history.
Haller turned his big season into playing Division 1 baseball at Western Kentucky in 2024. His first season with the Hilltoppers was another resounding success batting .299 with 41 hits, 13 RBIs, 26 runs and a .426 on base percentage. Haller led the team in conference batting average with a .319 BA to help lead WKU to a third place finish in Conference USA.
“I felt like going from high school to junior college was very different, but going from junior college to a D1 wasn’t as different because a lot of talented players go the junior college route first and the competition at the junior college level is very competitive,” Haller said.
This past year at Western Kentucky marked the first time for Haller being away from his family and playing baseball in a different state than California.
“It’s a great experience to go out to a different state you’re not used to and go to school, play baseball, and live on your own,” Haller said. “I would recommend people go out and explore the world and go to different places and meet new people.”
Right after the Western Kentucky baseball season came to an end, he took his talents to Palm Springs to play for the Power.
He is continuing to master his craft in the summer before returning to Bowling Green in the fall.
“Coming here day one and not knowing what to expect and not knowing anyone, these guys welcomed me with open arms,” Haller said. “As we have continued to get new players, I have returned the favor as far as welcoming those guys and getting them comfortable.”
Haller ranks among the top Power players in most offensive categories including batting average, hits, runs and RBIs. His 13 stolen bases also lead the team.
“I just have been sticking to my approach and feel that when hitters are comfortable and have a good approach, they can succeed at a high level,” Haller said. “The main thing is staying disciplined and letting pitches get in the zone.”
The Power’s goal since day one has been to go undefeated and win another California Premier Collegiate League Championship. Palm Springs is closing in on that goal with 32 straight wins to start the season and 51 straight franchise victories dating back to last season.
“I feel like just doing all the little things right and putting good swings on baseballs really contributes to us winning,” Haller said. “I know this undefeated season could potentially get into our heads a little bit, but [the key is] just staying strong and keeping our minds on one day at a time.”
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The Palm Springs Power are a summer collegiate baseball team playing all games at Palm Springs Stadium. The Power are a member of the California Premier Collegiate League and the league’s inaugural champions in 2023. Palm Springs has won nine league championships in 19 seasons of playing baseball in the desert dating to 2004.
Stay up-to-date with the Palm Springs Power at palmspringspowerbaseball.com and by following the Power on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tik Tok.
Fans can buy tickets every gameday at the stadium box office. Palm Springs Stadium is located at 1901 E Baristo Road in Palm Springs. Fans can also tune in on the Palm Springs Power Broadcast Network to watch every home game live.
For more information, visit palmspringspowerbaseball.com or call (760) 778-4487.
