By Chris Neyenhouse
Ava returns a experienced team with seven starters back from a squad that finished one game below .500. In his third year as Bears head coach Weston Loftin feels like the program is coming along nicely.
“My expectations for this year are to be back on the winning percentage side and be coming out on top of our close games better than we did last year,” said Loftin.
To do that, he’ll be relying on senior catcher Ryan Thompson to be the table setter offensively and solid behind the plate. Senior second baseman Roebe Henry will also be key.
“Roebe is one of the guys that is just in the right place at the right time and does what it takes to succeed as a baseball player,” Loftin said.
Thompson and Henry will also be key pieces of the pitching staff. Juniors Preston Adams and Garrison Honeycutt as well as sophomore Kyle Pitts join them in the rotational mix.
“Garrison Honeycutt with his pitching has made a huge stride from last year,” Loftin said. “He’s going to be able to give us a lot of quality innings this year.”
Seniors Matthew Lakey and Brandt Snelson will man the corners of the infield. Adams will handle shortstop when he’s not pitching. Jordan Hutchison, Devon Sawyer and Honeycutt round out an all-junior outfield.
“We will have to be more consistent making contact, but I believe those adjustments were made by the guys in the offseason,” Loftin said. “We have more pitchers this year as well so they will have to perform like they can.”
Ryan Lumley, Jayson Garfit, Jadyn Gieber, Hayden Kirklin, Gunner Evans, Jacob Laub, Grady Potter, Benjamin Stewart, Oliver Williams, Devyn Gieber, Braxton Swearengin, Scotty Embrey, Haydyn Sawyer, Luke Barton, Levi Cannon, Dylan Thorburn, Jayden Miller, Arne Kerstens, Siler Willis, and Heath Kirklin are also in the mix for playing time.
“The identity of this year’s team is going to be determined,” Loftin said. “They have shown to be determined to make changes and that’s what we needed from last year. I have seen some hungry guys so far.”
Ava hosts Clinton to begin the season March 15.
