Lafayette baseball’s Chris Langston marks his 600th career victory
Before the first pitch of Lafayette’s baseball game against Tates Creek on Tuesday, Coach Chris Langston didn’t suspect the brief ceremony planned to commemorate his surpassing 600 wins for his career.
“I’ve got my mind on who’s going to play and what position and that kind of stuff,” Langston told the Herald-Leader on Wednesday.
But his wife’s presence at the game signaled something might have been up.
“My wife doesn’t usually come because she says she’s bad luck,” Langston said, smiling.
Then his son Drew came out with a large framed jersey and plaque to mark the 600th victory that was recorded against Henry Clay on Saturday. Drew Langston presented the frame on behalf of the program and its supporters.
“It was really special to have my wife and son getting to be there,” Langston said.
According to Kentucky High School Athletic Association records, Langston’s 601 wins as of last weekend would rank him 20th on the state’s all-time baseball coaching wins list. He ranks eighth among active coaches according to the Kentucky High School Baseball Coaches Association.
With a mark of 601-300-2, Langston has a winning percentage of 66.5% for a 27-year career that began with three seasons at Franklin County before he was hired as head coach of his alma mater ahead of the 1998 season. Langston graduated from Lafayette in 1986.
Langston ranks first among Lexington high school baseball coaches, having surpassed Tates Creek’s legendary Dom Fucci a few years ago.
“I never dreamed I would be in this position,” Langston said. “It’s neat to think about — just putting in the time and having an opportunity to be here.”
Last year, Langston led the Generals to the 11th Region championship and the state quarterfinals. They’ve won the 43rd District title five of the last six seasons.
