It’s still far too cold, and there is still far too much snow on the baseball field to practice, let alone play, but head coach Arleigh Jorgenson has been getting his team ready for a what looks like on paper, at least, to be a terrific baseball season.
“Our expectations are high,” said coach Jorgenson. “We are doing our best to keep our eye on the calendar rather than the depth of the snowbanks. There is a lot we can do in the gym, and we are doing it.”
The team opens play on April 10 in Silver Bay and has its home opener April 12 against Carlton. “We will be ready,” promises coach Jorgenson.
“Our numbers are strong. I think our last count was at 29, grades 7-12. We are especially appreciative of the numbers and the readiness of our younger players. They are focused and enthusiastic. They are having fun, and they are valued. They will be fun to watch.”
A lot of talented players with playing experience are back from last year’s squad.
“We are returning eight starters from last year’s team. We will miss our graduated third baseman and pitcher Erik Lawler but will be led but an ever-maturing junior class, as well as seniors Colton Furlong, Wyatt Baker, and Cedric Rock,” said the coach.
A substantial component of this year’s team will be the return of a handful of experienced and talented starting pitchers.
“Pitchers Andrew Miller, Tristen Bockovich, Dillon Sjogren, and Adam Dorr will lead us on the mound, with help from Colton Furlong and Joe Deschampe. Others may emerge.
“Offensively we need to improve, and we are working hard on our offensive approach. We know that if we can get Colton Furlong and Josh Prom on base together with less than two outs, we will do some damage.
“Andrew Miller, Tristen Bockovich, Cameron Roy, Dillon Sjogren, will hit. We also expect significant input from sophomore Garrett Curran. Wyatt Baker and Joe Deschampe give us some power in the lineup,” Jorgenson said.
Then too, there are expected contributions from kids new to the varsity.
Coach Jorgenson said new players include Jordan Porter and Devon Premo, along with returner Masen McKeever. “All will bring athleticism to the team, as well as great team attitudes. They will help us,” he added.
When asked to name starters, the coach said, “I am hesitant to list positions, but with our returners, there are some expectations.
“Josh Prom will likely anchor center field, Tristen Bockovich will likely play either shortstop or third base. Garrett Curran played second base last year, and may again, or may move to either short or third.
“Adam Dorr can play second, as can Levi Sheils or Cameron Roy. Joe Deschampe played very well at first base. Cameron Roy can play first as well.
“Colton Furlong can play any outfield position, as can Connor Somnis. Dillon Sjogren and Cameron Roy give us experience and skill behind the plate.
“Third base is our biggest question at this point. To put it all together, our minds are open. We are deep, and it promises to serve us well.
“What we are working on right now is becoming a team, a team of young men playing for each other, their school, and their community. Oh, and by the way, having some fun doing it.
“We hope we will be fun to watch,” coach Jorgenson said.
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