Preseason Q&A with Baseball Coach Steve Helms
We have a very mature team with tremendous work ethic, so the ceiling is high. I believe this team will compete and represent all the players that have come before them and will be an example for those who come in the future.
Q: What are your expectations for the upcoming season?
A: We have a very mature team with tremendous work ethic, so the ceiling is high. But how we deal with the challenges and adversity that come throughout a season will determine how much success our team does or doesn't have.
During our preseason, the weather has played a major factor in the first eight days of practice. However, the days we have been able to get on the field have been full of energy and competitiveness among the players fighting for jobs.
Q: What are the team goals for the program this year?
A: Our goal as a team, and individually, is to get better every week by eliminating weaknesses and building on our strengths. We want to be playing our best ball after April 1st.
Q: Who are the emerging leaders within the program?
A: I believe the entire sophomore class has done a tremendous job of leading by example on and off the field. Sophomore leadership will be essential to the growth and success of our team this season.
Q: What returning player has improved and impressed you the most so far?
A: It is hard to point to just one sophomore at this time. The whole group of returning players has shown increased maturity and the willingness to lead in the right way. The sophomores are vital to helping the freshmen adjust to the level of play and the expectations of the coaching staff.
Q: What freshman player has impressed you the most so far? What do you see as his/her role on the team this year?
A: The two that stand out the most right now are Hollon Brock and Drew Hurst. Hollon has great leadership ability and will be an asset in controlling our pitching staff and defense behind the plate. Drew has shown an awesome mentality on the mound throughout the fall and early spring. We love the way he competes on the mound.
Q: Anything else you would like to add or include?
A: I believe this team will compete and represent all the players that have come before them and will be an example for those who come in the future.