The Westminster Christian Academy Men’s Baseball team is full of excitement as they gear up for another season. Coming off an impressive 21-15 record last year, the Cats are set to build on that success and improve their game to the next level. With the early morning practices, the energy around the team is “feeling contagious” said Sean Gross.
A lot of the hype for this season is on the heavy numbered Senior class and many standout players who really shined last year. Joey Fentress, Truman State Signee, was one of the team’s big hitters. With a batting average of .330 over 100 at bats and 4 home runs, Joey showed everyone that he can be dangerous in the batter’s box. Then there’s Senior Catcher and Bradley Signee, Cal Leighton. Cal hit an impressive .347 with 11 doubles in 98 at bats. His ability to consistently get on base and drive in extra bases gave the team a significant boost during crucial moments. Cal’s eye for the ball and quick decision-making at the plate will continue to be clutch this season. His extra-base hits often turned close games into clear wins, and his presence in the lineup is something that opponents will definitely be watching.
Pitching is another strong suit for the team, and Ethan Martin led the way on the mound. Martin’s first six pitching performances, he pitched with a 0 ERA and went on to go 7-0 on the season. His goal for this year is just to “stay healthy and have a memorable senior year”. Martin is expected to be a driving force in many of this season’s games.
On the other hand, Pitcher and Infielder, Jake Keane is pleased with the progress the team has made but is also realistic about what needs to be improved. “We need to get a better approach at the plate, adjusting to the game early so we can hit the ball more consistently”. This quote perfectly sums up the team’s mindset going into the new season. He believes the key to winning more games lies in how the entire team works together, especially when it comes to adapting early in the game and staying focused throughout each game.
Overall, the atmosphere at WCA is full of anticipation and determination. The successes of last season, combined with the standout performances of key players set the stage for what promises to be an awesome season. Everyone is excited to hit the field again, and the team is ready to work together, learn from past experiences, and create new memories on the diamond. This season isn’t just about winning games, it’s about growing as players, building lasting friendships, and representing WCA.
