The EMU baseball team has its eyes set on earning a spot in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference tournament in the 2019 season. The Diamond Royals finished with a strong overall record of 15-24, and 6-14 in the ODAC. A tough loss against the University of Lynchburg put them one game short of the postseason tournament. Though failing to qualify for the tournament, the young group of players laid the groundwork for this year’s roster.
Senior Kyle Wilkinson described his feelings going into his last season as a Royal. Wilkinson said, “As a senior, I want to finish this year on a high note. Whether this means on or off the field, I am happy that I got this experience. My time with these guys have been unforgettable.”
After losing six seniors at the end of last year, the team is looking for leadership to step up and take control of the program. Assistant Coach Adam Posey said, “We will look to others within to keep a pulse on the team and help keep things going in the right direction.”
Senior captain Zach Roberts said, “We have a good group of guys. We all get along and enjoy being together. This year’s team has worked hard up to this point, so hopefully it will translate well once we start playing.”
As many members of the team explained, the EMU baseball team is like one big family. Sophomore Jonathan Nagle added, “We all spend a lot of time together, either at practice, team meetings, lifts, or just hanging out. We get to grow together, and eventually, they all become brothers to me.”
As they look to improve the program to propel the team into the postseason competition, returning players will also fix their gaze on some younger teammates. Posey said, “While we have a large portion of our team returning that played significantly last year, the new players provide some quality depth and athleticism, giving us additional options going forward.”
As the Diamond Royals travel to North Carolina Wesleyan College for their season opener this weekend, the team will have an opportunity to show their growth as an offensive threat.
At bat, Sophomore Brett Lindsay has shown that he can be a serious threat at the plate in the league. Posey said, “He has a steady approach at the plate that extends beyond his years. He will mean a lot as a fixture in the lineup both in what he brings offensively and defensively.”
In addition, hitters Zach Roberts and Dan Scott will bring skill and experience into play. Both returning and new players look to Roberts and Scott for their leadership. “Zach and Dan are great players, teammates, and people off the field. I want their senior year to go off with a bang,” said sophomore Ray Tricarico.
With early season injuries, the men will have to overcome some adversity. Junior Spencer Laitinen said, “Even with injuries, there is a new energy about this team. We all have the same goal and that is to win.” The team looks forwards to the first pitch on Saturday at 11 a.m. in N.C.
