Blazer sluggers look forward to 2004 campaign

The baseball team squandered many opportunities and suffered a disappointing 7-10 record last season. But this year, their terrific work ethic, commitment, depth, and experience make the Blazers seem poised to turn their fortunes around.

The Blazers, led by second baseman/pitcher Sam Boone and outfielder/catcher Tom Foley, the senior co-captains, are returning a nearly intact squad from last year as they lost only five players to graduation. In fact, all seven members of Blair's pitching staff, led by seniors Grant Staking and Jonas Wilson, have varsity experience. The senior leadership should come in handy in crucial, late game situations, during which the Blazers were prone to fall apart last year. However the losses of catcher Max Eckert and shortstop Josh Richardson may reveal some defensive weaknesses.

The Blazers have participated in an intense agility training program known as plyometrics and have nearly acted as residents of Blair's weight room. Coach John Macdonald believes that these players are the hardest working offseason team in his 12 year tenure and that their weight training may contribute to on-field prowess. "We will play hard and compete in every game. My team worked very hard this offseason and I hope it translates to success on the field," he said.

The team also have immense all around depth as many reserves have the capabilities to shine. Also, most players can play more than one position, such as senior first baseman Kent Anderson, who is expected to excel at both first baseman and pitcher. While Blair is without any true "stars," its well-roundedness and ability to play as a team should be able to more than make up for that.

While the Blazers may still lack the personnel to go toe-to-toe with the likes of Quince Orchard or Damascus, they should be able to display they're improvement at their newly refurnished stadium. Blair will open its season at the woeful Einstein Titans on Mar. 22 at 3:30 p.m.