UMW Ready For Spring Ball

By WHITNEY JORDON

With the loss of three key players to graduation and a disappointing fall in the final round of the CAC Championship Tournament last year, the University of Mary Washington’s baseball team is striving to get back on their feet and prove themselves this season.
The Eagle men have already achieved a cohesive bond, and the season has yet to begin.
Throughout the off-season they have been practicing together and getting to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses in order to prepare. With the addition of eleven freshman to fill the void in the team’s line-up, a lot of time was required to make the team whole once again.
Senior Mike Murphy reflected on the team’s shortcomings, but expressed little doubt that this season’s lineup will be any less than last year’s.
“It’s always hard to fill the void of lost seniors,” he said. “But the freshman are adjusting to the college game well and other newcomers are picking up on the little things that are important to being successful here at UMW.”
Senior Ray Moore agreed.
“This year [we] have an experienced team that has a lot of potential,” he said.  “This experience will help [the team] get back to the NCAA tournament.”
Junior Chase Townsend can see how the hard work during the off-season has already paid off. “This year, more than any other since [I’ve] been on the team. The guys are closer,” he said.  “[We’re] a team of 32 brothers.”
Ending last year’s season with a record of 26-10, all players have positive thoughts regarding the outcome of this season and both experienced and new players will step up to the challenge that is before them.
Senior Donny Price, a newcommer to the team, anticipates the seasons opening game.