Agape Freedom Sports LLC

By Jeric Yurkanin | Agape Freedom Sports | Staff Writer

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Some athletes are born into the game. Others are built by it. Payton Laytos is both.

The Lackawanna Trail sophomore shortstop has quickly emerged as one of the fiercest competitors in District 2 — a powerful hitter, vocal leader, and driven student-athlete with a maturity far beyond her years.

In the 2025 season, Laytos is batting .400, with 20 hits, 17 RBIs, 19 runs scored, and 2 home runs, including a grand slam against Blue Ridge. Her .524 on-base percentage and .620 slugging percentage tell the story of a complete hitter — but her impact goes far beyond the box score.

On April 17, in a 19–9 win over Blue Ridge, Laytos delivered a statement performance — going 4-for-4 at the plate with four RBIs. The highlight? A no-doubt grand slam to center field in the fourth inning, part of a seven-run outburst that helped the Lions take full control of the game.

“A particular moment in this season that meant a lot to me was hitting my first grand slam against Blue Ridge.” Said Laytos.

On May 12, she delivered one of the season’s most defining moments — singling home the tying run and scoring the game-winner in a dramatic 4–3 walk-off victory over Susquehanna.

That clutch DNA? It runs in the family.

Daughter Like Her Father:

Payton is the daughter of Ed Laytos, one of the most dynamic football players in Lackawanna Trail history. A two-way Suburban All-Star in the early 1980s, Ed rushed for over 1,050 yards his senior season, including a 214-yard, two-touchdown performance against Wallenpaupack that sealed third place in the conference.

He was named WEJL Athlete of the Week, and earned respect across the region for his grit, versatility, and leadership — the same qualities his daughter now carries to the diamond.

It should come as no surprise.

The Leader of Today’s Lions:

Whether she’s ripping a liner to left or firing a strike across the infield, Payton Laytos plays with a blend of intensity and confidence that’s rare at any level.

“When I step into the batter’s box, I clear my mind and transform any pressure into confidence,” Laytos said. “I aim for base hits — and every once in a while, a home run will come.”

Earlier this season, she went 3-for-3 in a blowout win over Mountain View. But she’s made her biggest mark in the clutch — none bigger than her 7th-inning heroics against Susquehanna.

Year-Round Training and Relentless Discipline
Laytos trains year-round with the Lackawanna Lightning travel team and in August 2024, she worked with Coach Grant at 7 Deadly Spins Fastpitch in Wilkes-Barre during specialized velocity training — part of her commitment to improving arm strength and mechanics.

At 6’0″, 130 lbs., with a 70 mph throwing velocity, she’s an athletic force at shortstop and also sharpens her skills behind the plate as a secondary catcher. She’s drawn 13 walks to just 6 strikeouts, showcasing her advanced plate discipline and mental poise.

She also plays goalkeeper on the varsity field hockey team, and is a member of the National Honor Society, where her commitment to academics remains strong.

“Balancing academics and athletics is definitely not easy, especially during the spring time when you’re juggling school softball, and travel softball. Some weeks I have no days off of softball, but that is no excuse to not make time for studying, and homework. Being a member of the National Honors Society has gave me extra motivation towards making sure I put school first.”

Trail Toughness and Legacy Mindset:

“Wearing the Lackawanna Trail jersey means to me that everything I do is to represent my school,”. Said Payton. This program has allowed me to find my voice on the field, even outside of this team, because I am not afraid to be myself around my peers.”

Just like her father — an athlete, all-star, and the embodiment of hard work — Payton is continuing the family tradition with excellence. And though only a sophomore, she’s already playing with the poise of a senior. Trail is lucky to have her — and Ed Laytos no doubt beams with pride as the Laytos legacy leaves its mark once again.

“Individually, my goal for next season is to continue leading the team in hits,” she said. “As for my team, it would be amazing for us to capture a district title, and I have total faith that we could.”

Team-minded. Team-first. And always focused on what’s best for the group.

Beyond the Field:

Away from the game, Payton finds balance in pickleball with friends and playing the harmonica, a peaceful outlet that helps her reset and recharge.

Her advice to younger athletes?

“Don’t let others discourage you,” she said. “You have to get back up when you’re knocked down. Keep that mentality — and don’t let anyone block your goals.”

From Ed to Payton, the Laytos name continues to stand for heart, hustle, and Lion pride. And with two seasons still ahead of her, Payton Laytos is only just getting started. In a few years, don’t be surprised when you hear the name Payton Laytos making noise at the college softball level — a skilled, hardworking, and naturally gifted athlete destined for big things.