ASHLAND, Maine — Motivated after being left out of the playoffs last year, third-year coach Jordan Beaulier and his Hornet baseball team are anxious to begin the season.
“I think we are going to have a good year,” Beaulier said. “Not making it last year did put a bad taste in our mouths and we are going to use this as motivation to propel us into having a great season.
Ashland recorded a 6-8 record in 2017 and lost two standout players off that team in Kyle Beaulieu, who caught and pitched, and Lucas Craig, who played shortstop and pitched.
While there are still some starting positions up for grabs, the Hornets probable lineup to begin the season includes senior Steven Bellanceau at first base, sophomore Graham Berry at second, junior Jesse Wortman at shortstop and senior Baily Clark at third. Senior Alex Kaiser is the No. 1 pitcher and will most likely start in center field when not on the mound. Sophomore Drew Doughty plays left field.
Junior Daniel Wortman, senior Mason Moro and senior Parker O’Clair are all in the mix in the outfield, while freshman Sam Craig and Jesse Wortman will both catch. Asher Valone, a senior, could also get some starts at either of the middle infield positions.
Clark, Bellanceau, Craig, Doughty, Jesse Wortman and Berry also will do some pitching for the Hornets.
“All of my pitchers are going to have to step up to the occasion,” said Beaulier, who noted last year’s new pitching rule involving limited pitch counts plays a huge factor in the importance of developing pitching depth. “They are good and are doing their best to prepare for the season.”
Sophomores Nick McIntosh and Tristan Pelletier, junior Caleb Lagasse, senior Rylee Albert and freshmen Brady Holmes, Alden Routhier and Gabe Page round out the Hornets’ roster and will look to contribute when called upon.
Daniel Cote and Lendell Tarr will assist Beaulier with coaching duties.
Beaulier said he is pleased with his team’s offensive potential, but noted that improvements on defense will be necessary for the team to be successful this season.
“We are going to have to step up our defense as we committed a lot of errors [last year],” he said. “If we can cut down on those and keep our composure on the field, I am hoping that will be a key factor.”
