Klamath Union High School senior Parker J. “PJ” Safford is taking the next step in his baseball career, officially signing to play at Oregon Tech during a signing ceremony Wednesday at Pel Court, surrounded by classmates, staff and family.
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Safford was joined by his parents, Mike and Liza Safford, along with Oregon Tech head baseball coach Ricky Walker, as he made his commitment to continue both his academic and athletic journey with the Hustlin’ Owls.
A four-year varsity player under KU head coach Michael Overstreet, Safford has built an impressive resume during his time at Klamath Union. This season, he holds a 5-2 record on the mound with a 0.88 ERA, tallying 50 strikeouts and just three walks across 32 innings pitched.
Safford’s signing also marks a notable milestone for the program as he becomes the first Klamath Union student-athlete to sign directly out of high school to play baseball at Oregon Tech since 2005, with Cory Spires being the last Pelican.
During the ceremony, Safford shared his excitement about continuing his career close to home, where he plans to study communications while competing at the collegiate level.
“Being an Oregon Tech Owl is more than just baseball,” Safford said. “It’s being part of the community and having younger kids look up to you. It’s a great opportunity, and I’m excited to play next year.”
Safford said he has long envisioned himself wearing an Oregon Tech uniform.
“I knew pretty much from the start that I wanted to be an Owl,” Safford said. “I wanted to stay close to home and prove that I could play at the next level and I did it.”
Oregon Tech’s baseball program has seen steady growth in recent years, including a playoff appearance last season, something Safford said made the opportunity even more appealing.
“Knowing I’m going into a good program that’s improving allows me to get better,” he said. “Having strong coaching and being able to compete at a high level is something I’ve always wanted.”
Safford’s love for the game started early, influenced heavily by his father’s involvement in baseball. He said the sport has been a constant throughout his life.
“I’ve been around baseball forever,” Safford said. “It’s always been part of me, and it always will be.”
In addition to baseball, Safford has also excelled in football, earning all-state honors as a punter, while consistently receiving all-conference recognition in baseball.
As Safford prepares for his final stretch at Klamath Union and looks ahead to Oregon Tech, Safford also shared advice for younger student-athletes hoping to follow a similar path.
“I’m just grateful for everyone who helped me get here, and I’m ready to keep working and prove I belong at the next level,” Safford said. “It means a lot to represent my hometown, and I hope I can show younger kids here that you can chase your goals and make it happen.”
