Lycoming News

With a new season approaching, the Pennsylvania College of Technology baseball team is gearing up with a renewed focus. Veteran coach Chris Howard leads the team into his 19th season, emphasizing a "taking care of business" attitude that he believes will translate to success on the field. The Wildcats are set to open their season against Gettysburg College in Aberdeen, Maryland.

Reflecting on last year's performance, where the team finished 17-21 overall and 5-10 in the United East Conference, Howard notes that most players were freshmen or first-year players. "I would say that we have a key returner in every position on the field," Howard remarked.

Sophomore centerfielder Dallas Griess, recognized as last year's United East Rookie of the Year and a member of several prestigious teams, is among those leading the returnees. Senior catcher Nathan Gustkey returns after an early injury last season. Other returning players include Brandon Shane, Jaiden Augustine, Shawn Townsend, Jaydon Goebel, Matt Munoz, John Croasdale, Kevin Cute, and Ty Jenkins.

The pitching staff sees key returnees like Sam Staib and Griffin Vollman among others. Junior Parker White is back after recovering from an injury. Newcomers Ethan Hannevig and McGwire Heverly join as junior right-handers while Ryan Remetta comes in as a freshman left-hander.

Howard praises the depth at every position: "Not just bodies, but depth to where I have no reservations about putting anybody at any position." The coach also highlights strong upperclassmen leadership guiding the team's direction this year.

"This year we have more quality arms on the pitching staff than we have had in 19 years," Howard states confidently. He acknowledges competition within the team as beneficial for overall improvement.

Looking ahead to challenges within their conference against Keystone and Penn State Harrisburg, Howard remains optimistic about making it back to postseason play. "Not making the postseason last year left a bad taste in everyone's mouth," he said. Yet this has fueled motivation for harder work this year.

Howard concludes with anticipation for seeing how young players from last year perform: "I'm always optimistic every year, but this year I'm especially excited."