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With an abundance of snow on the ground—and more predicted to fall–the Cook County High School boy’s baseball team has been practicing in the various school gyms as they get ready for the upcoming baseball season. Staff photo Brian Larsen
So, Japan beat the U.S. 3-2 to take the World Baseball Classic with the two best players in today’s game facing off against each other for the final out, with Shohei Ohtani striking out his California Angels teammate Mike Trout on a full-count slider.
Baseball doesn’t get better than that. Well, except for when the local boys take the field.
OK, so there won’t be the same drama. And though the skill level isn’t the same as the professional players, the passion and the love of the game are much the same, and the effort, hustle, and caring for the game are much the same. And then there’s the enthusiasm, the fun of kids playing ball. Can’t beat it!
So, let’s take a look at this year’s Cook County High School boy’s baseball team, who have been practicing indoors in various gyms as they await the melt of spring.
Head Coach Arleigh Jorgenson is in his 24th year at the helm of the Vikings. He doesn’t like to talk about his age, but he’s well into his seventh decade on the planet. When asked what motivates him to keep going, Arleigh replied, “We started Am Legion Baseball in 1996, which led to the high school program. I guess I must love the game, and I must love the players! They keep me young–well, at least younger! I am grateful for the many fine young Cook County men I have had the opportunity to know over the years. I consider it an honor to have had the trust of so many and their parents.
This year’s team is returning with many experienced players from last year, a luxury Cook County only sometimes has.
“We expect leadership from all of our players,” said Jorgenson. “We are a team. As in life, we play for each other. We will name captains later. Our senior leaders are Kole Anderson, J Shannon, and Payton Morrison. Other returning varsity players are Amos Falter, Hunter Gomez, Benelli Myers, Hunter Rex, Ethan Tate, Jake Mixdorf, Landon Sheils, Clayton Smith, Ryan Shannon, and Cade Smith.
“Our pitching staff will be led by Kole Anderson and include Benelli Myers, Hunter Gomez, Ethan Tate, Amos Falter, Jake Mixdorf, Landon Sheils, Clayton Smith, Hunter Rex, Cade Smith, and Oscar Mielke. We will see who emerges as our most reliable strike throwers.
“Defensively, we are liking the experience of Hunter Gomez, Benelli Myers, Landon Sheils, Jake Mixdorf, Cade Smith, Amos Falter, J Shannon, Hunter Rex, Ethan Tate, and Kole Anderson. Kole, Hunter Rex, and Jake Mixdorf will be behind the plate. The entire roster has some experience and talent. We expect it will show as the season goes along.”
When questioned about the upcoming competition Arleigh thoughtfully responded.
“You asked about conference and section strength. We have a double-header scheduled on April 4 against Cherry and South Ridge, two top contenders for a sectional championship. The games will be in Aurora, on Mesabi East’s turf field. It will be cleared of snow! We are excited and happy for the opportunity to get an early start. It will help us. Even if our field remains unplayable for a while, we will have played.
“Other perennial strong teams will be Ely and Esko. Also, Carlton and Wrenshall have combined. They will likely be strong. And we cannot overlook our Northshore friends from Two Harbors and Silver Bay. Jake Stadler and Jacob Carpenter will anchor their pitching staff.
What we must do is worry about our own game and improve it through the season. The guys are working really hard. We are happy.”
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