Baseball looks to solidify state tournament spot

The varsity baseball team is off to a slow start this season. They are currently 10-11 overall and 6-6 in the conference.

Most sports teams have off games, but if Wakefield can persevere and keep their heads high, they will end up assuring a spot in the state tournament this season.

“We got off to a slow start offensively,” said Coach, Chris Keown. “Our pitching and defense has been pretty solid throughout the year.”

If the team can continue to work hard and focus on building chemistry with each other while working to improve their offence, they will be able to compete against all opposition for the remainder of the season.

“Right now we need to maintain our aggressiveness at the plate and continue to make the routine plays on defense,” said Keown. “If we can do that then we can compete with anyone.”

The players understand this too. Senior Outfielder, Hunter Stephens, believes the team needs to needs to be there for each other by focusing more in practice and games so they have a better chance at making the playoffs.

“We have to play like we are capable of making the playoffs,” said Stephens.

Senior Shortstop, Kyle Grewe, shares the same view as Stephens. Work hard in practice, and outwork your teammates to make them better.

“We need to have the mentality that we’re going to have to play our best seven innings,” said Grewe.

All of the teams in the Cap 8 are determined to obtain playoff spots. This means every night is a brawl for each team contending.

“The Cap 8 conference is so competitive and every night is going to be a battle,” said Keown. “We are trying to finish strong and hopefully solidify one of those state tournament spots.”

Wake Forest and Heritage are Wakefield’s biggest rivals. Being 10-11, Wakefield needs to win the rest of their games to have a chance at playoffs.

“We need to be ready to fight for the win these last two games against Heritage and Leesville,” said Stephens.

Wakefield has an optimistic mindset towards competing against all teams in the Cap 8. The players don’t get stressed or intimidated, they are just ready to get out on the field and battle.

“We look forward to playing everybody,” said Keown. “We really look at every game as an opportunity to improve and have fun.”

Team chemistry is a critical factor in having a solid team. Relationships between the players can grow on and off the field.

“We have a strong team bond,” said senior First Baseman Nick Coutros. “We just need to find a way to bring that connection onto the field.”

Keown is very proud of his players and really loves the program. He would  also like to recognize the seniors on the team, as they have been committed to the program since they started attending Wakefield.

“I’ve been really impressed with this group of young men this year, especially the seniors for their commitment and hard work,” said Keown. “This group has battled all year long and that makes me proud to be their coach.”