After a challenging 2-20 season last year, the varsity baseball team is ready for a fresh start. Last season, the team’s resilience was tested early and often; they didn’t secure their first victory until late May, when they finally broke through against Marquette in the first game of a doubleheader.
Key Returners Seeking Redemption
This year’s squad is led by veterans determined to flip the script. Team captain Devin Townsend is looking for a healthy season after an injury in the season opener sidelined him for several games last year. Joining him is Jayson Randolph, who is searching for a major reset. After a promising sophomore debut, Randolph struggled last year while battling a pre-season shoulder injury. Transitioning to the Designated Hitter (DH) role, he faced difficulties at the plate, but he enters this season healthy and focused.
They aren’t alone. A large group of juniors who endured last year’s “catastrophic” season are now the core of the roster. Their goal is simple: hit better, field better, and—for the pitchers—keep the team in every game.
A “Family” Mentality
The biggest change this year isn’t just on the stat sheet; it’s in the dugout. The upperclassmen are focused on building a “family” atmosphere rather than just a roster of players. This shift in chemistry is already visible during practices, where players feel more supported and confident in their teammates.
“Expect a young, energetic team, lots of yelling, a lot more winning, and a whole lot more team chemistry,” said Townsend. “It’s just going to be a fun team to watch.”
New Leadership, New Energy
The team is also adjusting to a new face at the helm. Head Coach Mason Ross is stepping into the varsity role this year, and he credits his support system for helping him manage the pressure.
“Having really good friends and a staff that you know you can trust—and then having the players believe in me—is everything,” Ross said. “Without that, I can’t do what I do.”
The roster is also being bolstered by younger talent and players moving up the ranks. Sophomore Antonio Ramirez, who played on JV2 last year, is making the jump to varsity. Despite the pressure of the promotion, Ramirez is staying focused on his approach and helping the team win.
Junior Nathan Balistriere, who was called up from JV1 late last season, is also looking forward to starting the year on the varsity roster. He noted that the team’s mindset has shifted significantly since last May.
“I feel like everyone is approaching it differently,” Balistriere said. “I feel like we all know that we have to figure it out as a team so we don’t end up with the same outcome as last year.”
When asked what the biggest challenge will be for the team this season, Balistriere noted, “I think our biggest challenge will be staying consistent when things get tough, but with the chemistry we have now, I know we can handle it.”
