Last year, the Shiretowners, who finished ninth in the Heal Point standings, traveled to No. 8 Searsport for a preliminary game which they lost, 3-0.
In his second year, Houlton coach James Caster is optimistic about his team’s chances at a postseason bid.
“We are a well-rounded and solid team,” Castner said. “We have very few weaknesses and I expect that we will be in every game we play this season.”
Leading the team this season is lone senior Gage Hunt, along with juniors Jacob Drew and Dan Howe.
“We lost three seniors from last year — Jimmy Fitzpatrick, Dan Swallow and Isaiah Straubel — and Kole Buzzeo to a basketball injury,” said Castner. “We have almost our entire roster returning. We play fundamentally-sound baseball and have a well-balanced team.”
Hunt will move to centerfield this season from his infield position.
“His great speed makes him an excellent defender and threat on the base paths,” added Castner.
Serving as captains for the Shiretowners are Drew and Howe.
“They were chosen by a team vote last year and they are carrying over this year,” Castner explained.
Drew has developed into one of the better defensive catchers, according to his coach, and consistently hits the ball hard. Howe always has a solid bat, Caster noted, and adds pitching depth and leads the infielders at second base.
Joining these three are juniors Jake Carter, Nick Hagan, Noah Holmes and Ethan Bouchard; sophomores Billy Phillips, Ryan Dee, Parker Brewer and Connor Grant; and freshmen, Nick Botting, Cam Graham and Thomas Prescott. Acting as player/manager is senior Buzzeo.
The Shiretowners have dropped Stearns and added Calais to their schedule this year.
“Calais has always had a strong program and will be a good matchup for us,” said Castner. “Presque Isle and Caribou are always tough opponents and a good test for where we are as a team.”
Teams that will be tough in Class C include Calais, Stearns and Mattanawcook Academy.
The Shiretowners will be in Presque Isle on Thursday for a 7 p.m. game and they will be in action at home Saturday to Calais at noon.
