Lansing High School Baseball Season Preview

As the new season approaches, fans of Lansing High School baseball are excited to see what the team has in store. We had the opportunity to chat with head coach Michael Basler about the upcoming season, new players, returning starters, team captains, and expectations. Here is what he had to say. When asked about new players who will make an immediate impact on the team, Coach Basler highlighted five standout players who have committed to play at the collegiate level. These players bring a strong combination of pitching, hitting, and defensive abilities to the team and are expected to make a significant impact on the field. Tonio Mendez, a senior shortstop and right-handed pitcher, is one of the best 2-way players in the Eastern side of 5A. He has earned multiple All-League honors and participated in the Team Kansas Select summer 2023 program. With an impressive 2.38 ERA and .373 batting average, Tonio is expected to bring a strong presence to the team. He has committed to play at Barton County Community College. James Umbarger, a senior right-handed pitcher and first baseman, brings his skills from an impressive summer 2023 season with Team Kansas Select to the team. He was also named 2nd Team All UKC as a pitcher and has committed to play at St. Bonaventure University. Caden Howell, a senior center fielder and right-handed pitcher, has received honorable mention All UKC as a pitcher and was also part of Team Kansas Select in summer 2023. With a 3.03 ERA and 48 strikeouts in 32 1/3 innings pitched, Caden is expected to bring a strong pitching presence to the team. He has committed to play at the University of Akron. Dalton Jorgensen, a senior third baseman, catcher, and right-handed pitcher, was named 2nd Team All UKC as an infielder. With a .324 batting average and 17 RBIs, Dalton's offensive and defensive skills will be crucial to the team's success. He has committed to play at Barton County Community College. Jett Hutton, a senior right fielder, was also named 2nd Team All UKC as an outfielder. With a .357 batting average and 9 doubles, Jett's offensive contributions will be key for the team.