DANFORTH, Maine — Once again East Grand and Greater Houlton Christian Academy will combine for varsity baseball this spring.
Head Coach Rex Crocker has everyone back from last seasons squad which should be competitive in Class D Baseball this spring, according to athletic director Chris Young. While the team returns everyone, youth is still prevalent on the squad as there are only two seniors on this year’s team, which could translate to a season of growth and improvement.
“We have people back with experience at each position on the field as well as pitchers who have two complete seasons under their belts,” Crocker said. “We should be competitive and win some games”
Returning seniors for the Vikings are Jim Schuurman, who will be a key pitcher and the team’s third baseman when not on the mound; and Bill Apgar, a utility outfielder.
The junior class features Wyatt Oliver, who should be the team’s leading hitter and starting first baseman; Josh Jones, who will see time at second; Peter Apgar, a centerfielder/pitcher; and Sam Plummer, a utility outfielder/pinch hitter.
The talented group of sophomores includes Thomas Gilman, a left fielder and the No. 3 pitcher; Lendin Stoddard, right field; Trevor Noyes, catcher; Cole Winslow, shortstop and relief pitcher; and Issac Potter, second/first base.
Winslow and Potter are from GHCA.
The Vikings have one eighth-grader on the roster, Noah Sixberry, who could see time in the infield and be used as a pinch runner.
“Scoring more runs will be the key to the team’s season,” Crocker said. “Big Innings for the offense, takes the pressure off pitching and makes for easy baseball. I see us as a playoff team, with some potential to go further if the effort and work in practice continues”
The Vikings open their season Tuesday, April 26, at Shead High School in Eastport. The home opener is slated for April 29 at 3:30 p.m. versus Wisdom.
