Moors Open with Stellar Scores

VINCENT LIN
Sports Editor
The prospects are high again for this year’s baseball season as the varsity team pushes further into the Almont League. Although young players make up the bulk of the team, many are returning with varsity experience, providing the confidence they need to play as strong as ever this season.
The Moors show no worry in obtaining another league title, which is an attitude shared by players and coaches alike. But, as any team should at this stage in league, they are focusing on the present and their means to improve by spring’s end.
“We know how good we could be, but we’re not there yet. That’s what practice is for. I have a lot of faith in these players; they’re my family,” said senior starting pitcher Frankie Wright.
This season expects to see much from Wright and junior Gary Acuna, whose outstanding pitching disabled their opponents from scoring over two points every game. With a 9-2 record so far, the younger members have gained much experience and demonstrated their ability to play as a team. According to Head Coach Steve Gewecke, if they continue to grow, this team could be even better than last year. Experience, of course, is a factor.
“Always, to continue to improve and grow is the first goal. We try to get a little bit better every day,” said Gewecke. “CIF championship is everyone’s goal, but we can’t have that without some goals leading up to it. So let’s qualify for playoffs, let’s win league, let’s win the first playoff game, and go from there.”
Even though the expectations are always high, the Almont League title is not treated like a parting gift for the senior players. In fact, varsity is never senior-heavy, and this year has only three starting seniors. Instead, several underclassmen are placed early into the varsity level, where their skills can grow and culminate for the rest of their stay. Then, with the league title attained, CIF is where they can shine, along with obtaining a possible Division-1 school recognition.
Every year, Alhambra tends to cast a steady flow of naturally talented baseball players. Even with this precedence, the coaches and players always persevere to secure their high rank and ensure the future of the team.