The LM baseball team ended last year with an unexpected first-round playoff loss to Pennsbury High School. The Aces were originally heartbroken with this loss, since they hoped to prove themselves at a greater level of play. Now, the team is back with a drive to build on last year.
Throughout the offseason, the squad has been working hard to refine skills, big and small, in batting, fielding, and throwing. This includes participating in fall baseball games, which occurred every Saturday during September and October, as well as winter workouts at AFC Fitness and Diamond Baseball. Head coach Colin Quinn, who is entering his fifth season in this role, continues to hold the same high expectations of all players: to make the playoffs, win the District 1 championship, and secure a spot in the state playoffs for the first time in the program’s history. Players are very excited to get back to the regular season and put all their hard work over the last six months to the test.
The team has had a great culture throughout the offseason that helps motivate players and makes playing baseball more enjoyable. Players often carpool to practice together and hang out after practices or workouts. There’s always a steady stream of conversations, showing players are having a great time while completing training. Additionally, players volunteered at clinics throughout the winter to help out middle school students. These occurred every Tuesday night from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Downs gym, building better people while helping younger players learn and improve at the game. Not only that, but after volunteer clinics, players often stick around to play basketball, building the team’s community and friendship stronger.
During the season, the team has practice six days a week and around twenty games to secure a spot in the playoffs. Practices begin at 4:00 p.m. with a quick warm-up. Then, the coaches and teams split up into stations, which typically consist of a regular fielding practice, batting practice, and some specialized practice.
Often, the coaches place an emphasis on training for situational plays while players practice fielding. This includes simulating game scenarios with two outs, people on base, double plays, etc. There is almost always a quick warm-up of infield and outfield, where coaches hit ground balls and fly balls to practice the basics of fielding while providing a valuable opportunity to continue mastering throws and glovework.
One enjoyable component to every season that players look forward to is the spring trip, which is happening in Florida this year. This four-day trip occurs the weekend before spring break and provides more opportunities to get better, as the team will play three games while down south. It’s another great event for players and coaches to bond and enjoy playing baseball.
Through it all, the team has shown dedication and determination in all aspects. Every year, the Aces rise to the occasion and fill the gaps of the seniors from the previous season. Every game, everyone puts in their best effort and strives to win. Players understand the commitment and drive necessary to be successful, and they won’t stop until they achieve their goals. The Aces are hopeful to continue forging their baseball careers, have a winning season, and win some playoff games. And through the team’s continued hard work, they can develop the tools and skills needed to make a deep playoff run.
