As the new season approaches, the Seneca East High School baseball team is gearing up for a promising year. We had the opportunity to speak with Coach Rick Bowerman about the team's goals, strengths, and areas of improvement. With a young team and a challenging schedule, the Seneca East Tigers are ready to hit the field and make a name for themselves.
When asked about the top returning players from last season, Coach Bowerman highlighted the team's junior class. Brady Bloom, Luke Mason, Braydon Robinson, Nicholas Parks, Blake Bumb, and Branson Finnell are all returning starters who have shown great potential in their previous seasons. Coach Bowerman praised their hard work and coachability, two important qualities that he looks for in players. Bloom is the team's top returning pitcher with an impressive 1.77 ERA in 2024, while Parks holds the title of top returning hitter with a .323 batting average from last year.
In addition to the returning players, Coach Bowerman also mentioned the new players who are expected to make an immediate impact on the team. Deacon Lacy, Elliott Elchert, Gunner Polachek, Gage Sumner, and Colten Ehresman are all players who have caught the coach's attention. These players will bring a new level of talent and energy to the team, making for an exciting season ahead.
When it comes to choosing team captains, Coach Bowerman looks for players who possess a strong work ethic and a positive attitude. These qualities are essential for a successful team and can greatly impact team chemistry and camaraderie. Currently, the team has five players battling for the captain role: Lacy, Elchert, Polachek, Sumner, and Ehresman. With a young team, it will be crucial for the captains to lead by example and set the tone for the rest of the players.
As for Coach Bowerman's coaching style, he believes in the importance of mental preparation and fighting through adversity. With no seniors on the team this year, the Tigers will have to rely on their mental toughness to push through challenges and come out on top. The team will also need to have a clear plan and execute plays on the field, whether it's attacking batters or having a plan at the plate. Coach Bowerman's coaching philosophy is reflected in the team's gameplay, and he hopes to see his players develop both physical and mental skills throughout the season.
One of the team's strengths this year is their overall athleticism and speed. This will be a key factor in their goal to manufacture runs and be aggressive on the bases. However, Coach Bowerman also acknowledges the team's weakness in lacking proven hitters and pitchers. With only one returning player hitting above .300 and one returning pitcher with quality varsity experience, the Tigers will need to rely on their hard work and determination to improve in these areas.
In terms of training and conditioning, Coach Bowerman emphasized the importance of the mental aspect of the game. Along with physical training, the team will focus on building mental toughness and being mentally prepared for every game. As a young team, it will be crucial for the Tigers to develop this aspect of their game to be successful on the field.
Looking ahead to the season, Coach Bowerman is excited about the challenging schedule and the opportunity to face tough opponents. He believes that facing strong teams like Mohawk, Vermillion, Calvert, Hopewell Loudon, Tiffin Columbian, and Margaretta will only make his team stronger and better prepared for the playoffs.
In conclusion, the Seneca East High School baseball team is ready to take on the season with determination and hard work. With a young but talented roster, the Tigers have the potential to achieve their goals of challenging for a league championship and winning a district championship. Coach Bowerman and his coaching staff are dedicated to developing their players both physically and mentally to ensure a successful season. Get ready to see the Seneca East Tigers roar on the field this year!
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