Clifton High School Varsity Baseball Team Preview

As the Clifton High School varsity baseball team gears up for the new season, Head Coach Joe Rivera has set clear goals: finishing above .500 and making a deep run in both the county and state tournaments. With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, the Mustangs are aiming for a successful campaign.  

Returning Standouts & Key Newcomers

Leading the team this season are top returning players Trevor Rascher, Andrew Gibney, and Justin Cabrera, all of whom earned all-county and all-league honors in 2024. Rascher, a standout pitcher, was named to the All-County Second Team and All-League First Team, while Gibney and Cabrera both received honorable mentions at the county and league levels. A key new addition is Tony Morales, a transfer from DePaul Catholic, who is expected to make an immediate impact on the roster.  

Leadership & Team Chemistry

Team captains Trevor Rascher and Andrew Gibney embody leadership both on and off the field. They set the standard by leading workouts and fostering team camaraderie through bonding activities, including team workouts and pizza parties.  

Challenges & Season Outlook

One of the primary challenges this season has been fielding enough players for sub-varsity teams. However, at the varsity level, the Mustangs are focused on a competitive schedule filled with tough league opponents. Coach Rivera emphasizes the mental aspect of baseball, understanding that players must learn to handle failure in a game built around resilience.  

Coaching Philosophy & Training

Coach Rivera has adapted his coaching style to be more compassionate regarding mistakes while maintaining high expectations. The team continues its winter workouts and strength and conditioning program to ensure players are prepared physically and mentally for the grind of the season.  

Strengths & Areas for Improvement

Clifton’s biggest strengths lie in its defense and pitching, which should keep them competitive in close games. However, the primary area for improvement is offensive production, particularly in capitalizing on scoring opportunities. The team will focus on situational hitting and execution with runners in scoring position to maximize their chances of putting runs on the board.  

Final Thoughts

With strong leadership, a talented core, and a commitment to improving offensive execution, the Clifton High School Mustangs are poised for a competitive and exciting season. If they can translate their defensive prowess into consistent run production, they have the potential to achieve their postseason aspirations.