With the previous year’s team going to the fourth round of playoffs, the West Brunswick varsity baseball team has confidence in advancing to the state tournament. The last state title at West Brunswick for baseball was in 2004 with the voted best starting nine in all of the region. Many young varsity players hope to make an impact on the starting squad and improve the previous years weaknesses. Starting positions opened across the field as the fair amount of seniors left the previous year: leaving it up to the less experienced sophomores and juniors to fill the positions.

As the new head baseball coach, Mike Alderson, takes the field, he believes it is ideal to work in new players to find the perfect combination of nine for the starting crew. Coach Alderson is convinced this team has potential; it will just take time and effort to find the individuals willing to make an impact.

Young players are being mentored by the senior contenders on how to make crucial plays and stay dedicated to the game. Sophomore Luke Hardee has pushed himself and others to wor

k for the ultimate goal of the state title. He believes deeply that this season and the next could be the strongest team since 2004.

“I hope to just throw strikes and let my defense work,” said Hardee. “Our defense is solid. We just have to find the right order in where to play everyone and where to put them hitting wise”

As competition rises with the season progressing, junior Jacob Stocks had much to say on his journey to a starting position.

“I’ve worked hard and I strive to get better everyday,” said Stocks. “You play how you practice, and your coaches see that. You have to prove them that you are capable to be in that position.”

The dedicated players believe this could be the rebirth of the 2004 team: with their potential and hard work, very few teams stand a chance. Is states a possibility or a certainty? This team has obviously decided.

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Photo by Michelle Caulk