Tyler High second baseman Malachi Deleon (4). (Michel Alfaro/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

TYLER LEGACY RED RAIDERS

Head coach: V.J. Bunner (2nd year at Legacy, 12-14; 146-72 overall)

Assistant coaches: Nick Hobbs, Travis Moore, Wesley Parks, Corben Henry, Ronnie Parks and Julian Macias

District: 10-6A (Longview, Rockwall, Rockwall-Heath, Forney, North Forney, Rockwall-Heath)

2024 record: 12-14

Returning varsity players: Nolan Hable, Sr., SS/P … Cale Zips, Jr., 3B/P … Garner McKinney, Sr., OF … Noah Felton, Sr., C … Calvin Rippy, Soph., P … Simeon Garner, Sr., 1B

Notable newcomers: Payne Hotman, Soph., OF/P … Brady Pollard, Jr., IF/P … Jaden Davis, Soph., UTIL/P … Brady Symes, Jr., OF/P … Owen Harrison, Soph., OF/P

LONGVIEW

Mascot: Lobos

Coach: Jim Goldman

2024 record: 12-17-1

District: 10-6A (Forney, North Forney, Rockwall, Rockwall-Heath, Royse City, Tyler Legacy)

Key returning players: Drew Flores (.320, 20 RBI, 9 doubles, 2 triples) … Cole Ramey (6-5, 1.97 ERA) … Kieffer Doxey (.286, 3-2, 2.98 ERA) … Bryson Denning (.326, 6 doubles, 1 HR) … Javarey Valentine … Hector Rodriguez … Payton Woods … Dameion Kennedy

Newcomers to watch: Roman Guidry … Cy Marsh … Trent Jackson … Carson Ford … Lawson Tubb … Jayden Washington … Grayson Clayton … Karson Farley … Evan Wagner … Mason Booker … Houston Rowe … Matthew Sanchez … Ryder Fretwell

Looks good: “Up the Middle. Feel good about our pitching, our catcher, shortstop [and] second baseman, and two kids we have that can both play centerfield.” – Goldman

Needs work: “Gonna have some rookies at the corner infield positions and manning all three outfield positions. A lot of our guys will be getting their first ever varsity ABs this year.” – Goldman

Did you know: Goldman owns a 574-353-2 career head coaching record … Flores and Doxey have only worn varsity uniforms as Longview Lobos, and started every game when they have been healthy since the first game of their freshman year.

TYLER LIONS

Head coach: Seth Gibson (3rd year at Tyler; 38 wins overall)

Assistant coaches: Bret Ralson, Gary Woods and John Brown

District: 10-5A (Whitehouse, Jacksonville, Lufkin, Nacogdoches, Hallsville, Marshall, Mount Pleasant, Texas High)

2024 record: 1-25

Returning varsity players: Juan Higuera, Sr., C/P/SS … Kaleb Hall, Sr., C/1B … Felipe Velazquez, Jr., P/2B (42 IP, 30 K, 2.83 ERA) … Malachi Deleon, Jr., UTIL (.310 batting, 12 SB, .465 OBP) … Oscar Salas, Jr., C/P … Aden Portley, Jr., 2B/P … Da’Markous, Pierce, Soph., C/DH

Notable newcomers: Jayden Echandy, Soph., P/UTIL

Additional comments: “Three years with our core group, so we are expecting a big jump from years past.” — Gibson

WHITEHOUSE WILDCATS

Head coach: Greg Branch (6th year at Whitehouse, 114-39; 297 wins overall)

Assistant coaches: Cody Hines, Thaddeus Lowry, Luke Yarbrough)

District: 10-5A (Tyler, Jacksonville, Lufkin, Nacogdoches, Hallsville, Marshall, Mount Pleasant, Texas High)

2024 record: 27-8

Returning varsity players: Winn Harriss, Sr., P/IF (LeTournau signee) … JJ Idrogo, Sr., OF (UT Tyler signee) … Tye Davis, Sr., C … Ben Reed, Jr., SS … Jojo Adams, Soph., 2B … Hunter Cook, Jr., OF … Brandon Wilson, Sr., P

Notable newcomers: Caleb Russell, Jr., P/IF … Price Bryan, Jr., P/IF … Parker Hall, Sr., P … Tyler Keen, Soph., P/UTIL … Mason Johnson, Soph., P/IF … Saylor Wilcox, Soph., C/P … Alex Rodriguez, Jr., P/UTIL … Jayden Singletary, Sr., P/OF … Joshua Cowart, Sr., P/IF … Jonathon Orr, Jr., P/OF

Additional comments: “We are once again loaded with athleticism and speed. We will continue to play a chaotic style of offense and play fast. Defensively, this will be one of our more seasoned and fundamental teams. We still have some questions on the bump, but have a ton of arms battling it out. Overall, I really like this team and how hard they work, how much they like each other and their dirtbag mentality.” — Branch

JACKSONVILLE INDIANS

Head coach: Branson Washburn (5th year at Jacksonville, 35 wins)

Assistant coaches: Richie Vierra and Jacob Owen

District: 10-5A (Tyler, Whitehouse, Lufkin, Nacogdoches, Hallsville, Marshall, Mount Pleasant, Texas High)

2024 record: 6-17

Returning varsity players: James Justice, Jr., UTIL (.320 batting) … Landon Best, Soph., UTIL (.315 batting) … Giancarlo Rico, Soph., P/1B (.280 batting) … Elijah Gallegos, Soph., P/3B … Jackson Penn, Soph., OF … Harrison Penn, Soph., OF

HALLSVILLE

Mascot: Bobcats

Coach: Chris Whatley

2024 record: 24-12

District: 10-5A (Jacksonville, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant, Nacogdoches, Texas High, Tyler, Whitehouse)

Key returning players: Kade Chappell (.411, 44 hits, 37 RBI) … Kaden Akin (8-1, 1.29 ERA, 53 K) … Preston Thomas (5-3, 1.75 ERA, 44 K) … Trentan Johnson (.253, 25 hits) … Hawk Haynes (21 hits, 18 runs, 17 RBI) … Cade Stuckey (.250, 23 hits, 20 runs, 7 doubles)

Newcomers to watch: Tyler Durrett … Landon Vineyard … Case Haney … Ranson Smith … Christian Martin … Carter Hatchell … Mark Jenkins … Dunn Smith … Lawson Nichols

Looks good: “We will be returning a good amount of pitching and should be competitive on the mound throughout our tough tournament/district schedule.” – Whatley

Needs work: “Just getting more reps and getting these guys in tough situations.” – Whatley

Did you know: Whatley has a 74-29 head coaching record … Hallsville currently has former Bobcat Justin Slaten playing for the Boston Red Sox in Major League Baseball.

MARSHALL

Mascot: Mavericks

Coach: Joe Koesel

2024 record: 17-11 overall/7-7 district

District: 10-5A (Hallsville, Jacksonville, Lufkin, Mount Pleasant, Nacogdoches, Texas High, Tyler, Whitehouse)

Key returning players: Bryce Alexander (1.96 ERA, 44 K) … Aldo Enrriquez (.262) … Judson Illingworth (.367) … Caiden Lawson (2-1) … Graham Smith … Jack Weaver … Jayden Townsend … Keyunta Lias … Jayson Clark … Ayden Lewis .. Jaden Reaves … Hudson Hammett

Newcomers to watch: Casey Cross … Kinsler Payne … Grant Jones

Looks good: “It’s early, but pleased with the overall effort.” – Koesel

Needs work: “It’s early. Everything.” – Koesel

Did you know: Koesel has a 500-223 career head coaching record, and is 26-30 at Marshall … Illingworth, Weaver, Reaves and Hammett competed for Marshall’s 10-3 playoff football team.

MOUNT PLEASANT

Mascot: Tigers

Coach: Tommy Stewart

2024 record: 18-11 overall/9-5 district

District: 10-5A (Hallsville, Jacksonville, Lufkin, Marshall, Nacogdoches, Texas High, Tyler, Whitehouse)

Players to Watch: Jayden Tarrant … Christian Johnson … Trent Milam … Hayden Hester … Bennett Wall … Colby Porter … Kortland Stovall … Nate Copado … Derek Ellis … Drew Cross … Santino Banda … BJ Brannon … Donnie Blunt … Sergio Moreno … Landon Cheatum … Cullin Williams … Diego Loazno … Landry Owens … KK Johnson … Dax Price

Looks good: “Even though we’re still young, we have more depth and experience this year.” – Stewart

Did you know: Stewart has earned 303 career wins across 15 years as a head coach.

ALL SAINTS TROJANS

Head coach: Jerry Courtney (19th year at All Saints, 308-168)

Assistant coaches: Aidan Mason, Cade Chesley and JL Courtney

District: TAPPS Division 3 District 3 (Bishop Gorman, McKinney Christian, Dallas Christian, Dallas Shelton)

2024 record: 5-16

Returning varsity players: Calvi Courtney, Sr., 1B/P … Caz Franks, Jr., OF/C … Sawyer Buske, Soph., P/CF … Nate Mienk, Soph., SS/P … Finley Markle, Soph., 3B/P

Notable newcomers: Blaine Blalock, Sr., C/P … Karson King, Jr., SS/P … Aiden Pitts, Soph., P/CF … Levin Wilkerson, Jr., 2B/3B

BROOK HILL GUARD

Head coach: Don English (2nd year at Brook Hill, 22-4; 685-432-12 overall)

Assistant coaches: Steven Hill, Dalton Smith, Blake Wilson and Dan Gold

District: TAPPS District 2 Division 2 (Grace Community, Bishop Dunne, Austin Regents, Arlington Grace Prep, Austin Brentwood Christian and Austin Hyde Park)

2024 record: 22-4, state champions

Returning varsity players: Ben Braatz, P/IF … Levi Visser, Jr., P/OF … Blake Whitten, Jr., P/IF … Samuel Williams, Sr., OF … Dallas Clements, Jr., C … Braxton Durrett, Sr., OF

Notable newcomers: Ben Crutsinger, Sr., 1B … Gabe Tatum, Jr., P/IF (Injured in 2024) … Conner Hayes, Soph., P/OF (Transfer) … Jake Godbold, Fr., P/OF (Transfer) … Layton Waters, Soph., P/IF (Transfer from LaPoynor)

Additional comments: “We are moving up to D2. We must find (create) a shortstop. I’m super fortunate to have a talented coaching staff: Steven Hill, former St. Louis Cardinals/Stephen F. Austin catcher, two former UT Tyler players and coaches Dalton Smith and Blake Wilson and Dan Gold, a world renowned ophthalmologist.” — English

GRACE COMMUNITY COUGARS

Head coach: Wes Johnston (1st year at Grace, 0-0)

Assistant coaches: Derek Craft and Noah Rachell

District: TAPPS District 2 Division 2 (Brook Hill, Bishop Dunne, Austin Regents, Arlington Grace Prep, Austin Brentwood Christian and Austin Hyde Park)

2024 record: 17-15

Returning varsity players: Garrett Smith, IF/P … Sam Reeves, IF/P … Lawson Livingston OF/P … JT Williams OF/P … Gavin Wupperman, IF … Nate Loeffholtz, IF

Notable newcomers: Colton Garrison, OF/P

PITTSBURG

Mascot: Pirates

Coach: Juan Perez

2024 record: 10-14

District: 14-4A (North Lamar, Paris, Pleasant Grove, Sulphur Springs)

Key returning players: Landon Graham … Lane Hall … Kord Johnson … Carter Lankford … Andrew Moss

Newcomers to watch: Keagan Miller … Brody Perschbacher … Kevin Johnson … Keyton Mayben … Case Bullard

Looks good: “Our depth across the board is a great thing. It fosters a competitive environment for us to get better.” – Perez

Needs work: “Pounding the zone on the mound and being more aggressive on the basepaths.” – Perez

Did you know: Perez will serve his first season as Pittsburg’s head coach in 2025 … Pittsburg’s ballpark, Big Green Stadium, has a historic feel.

ATHENS HORNETS

Head coach: Thomas Guidry (2nd year at Athens, 4-20)

Assistant coaches: Tallon Heine and Kam Neely

District: 15-4A (Lindale, Brownsboro, Canton, Kemp, Van, Mabank)

2024 record: 4-20

Returning varsity players: Jonathan Gonzales, Sr., 3B/P … Isaac Cleto, Sr., 1B/P … Mason Shelton, Sr., C … David Richardson, Jr., OF/P … Eli Carnes, Jr., OF … Gus Wickel, Jr., 1B/P … Satchel Williams, Soph., SS/P … Jaxon Jennings, Soph., UTIL/P … Carlos Pineda, 2B/P

Notable newcomers: Thatcher Diamond, Soph., UTIL/P … Peyton Mahan, Soph., P/C

CANTON EAGLES

Head coach: Brandon Luce (8th year at Canton, 166-42; 454-171 overall)

Assistant coaches: Joe West and Casey Morrow

District: 15-4A (Athens, Brownsboro, Van, Kemp, Lindale, Mabank)

2024 record: 26-7

Returning varsity players: Nathan Parker, Sr., P/OF … Reed Vannorsdel, Sr., P/IF … Kaden Smith, Sr., P/IF … Brody Lewis, Jr., P/1B … Chase Whitehead, Sr., 1B/C … Judson Dyke, Jr., P/IF … Jake Wilkerson, Sr., OF … Isaac Gebert, Sr., OF

Notable newcomers: Bryce Mebane, Jr., P/OF … Dane Vanhoozer, Jr., P/OF … Marco Chavez, Jr., C/IF … James Stone, P/OF

Additional comments: “The Eagles come in 2025 with big holes to fill in key spots. Pitching and defense has been the staple over the years and they must rely on that again. Moving into a much tougher district will be a grind, but the Eagles look forward to the challenge that comes with it.” — Luce

LINDALE EAGLES

Head coach: Rich Sanguinetti (10th year at Lindale, 151-79-7)

Assistant coaches: Cody Sewell, Brady Robinson and Brent Ricks

District: 15-4A (Athens, Brownsboro, Canton, Kemp, Van, Mabank)

2024 record: 21-6-2

Returning varsity players: Jake Powell, Sr., 3B (.340 batting, 17 RBI, 11 R) … Hudson Legrow, Sr., P (71.1 IP, 8-2, 99 K, 2.52 ERA) … Ty McCoy, Sr., OF/2B (.329 batting, .495 OBP, 24 R, 12 SB) … Caleb Hart, Sr., C/OF (.237 batting, 13 RBI) … Cody Hendrick, Sr., DH/OF (.241 batting, 6 RBI, 11 R) … Jackson Parker, Jr., OF/P (.288 batting, 7 RBI, 13 R, 10 SB; 33.2 IP, 4-1, 1.07 ERA) … Kaden Adams, Jr., P/IF (26.2 IP, 3-0, 28 K, 0.00 ERA) … Aiden Warnell, Sr., OF … Karter Fleming, Jr., P/OF … Dax Derfelt, Jr., C/P … Jackson LeGrow, Soph., P/OF

Notable newcomers: Conner Deen, Jr., DH … CJ Dworaczyk, Jr., P … Hayden Gateley, Soph., OF

VAN VANDALS

Head coach: Clayton Haltom (3rd year at Van, 48-22, 3; 91-64-4 overall

District: 15-4A (Athens, Brownsboro, Canton, Kemp, Lindale, Mabank)

2024 record: 24-11-2

Returning varsity players: Landon Smith, Sr., OF/P (.389 batting, 42 H, 24 RBI, 42 R, 28 SB) … Grady Baetz, Sr., P/OF (4 W, 40 IP, 49 K, 1.22 ERA; .300 batting, 21 H, 17 RBI, 23 R, 10 SB) … Asher Hawkins, Sr., IF (.362 bating, 21 H, 15 RBI, 18 R, 7 SB) … Easton Hinch, Sr., IF/P (20 H, 13 RBI, 22 R, 13 SB) … Wyatt Dale, Sr., C/OF (12 H, 16 RBI, 8 SB) … Andrew Flodder, Sr., IF (15 H, 11 RBI, 14 R) … Braiden Peyton, Jr., P/IF (31.1 IP, 2 W, 32 K) … Connor McCurley, Jr., IF/P/C (17 IP, 1 W, 2 SV, 14 K; .298 batting, 17 H, 15 RBI, 12 R) … Rawly Hinch, Soph., IF/OF/P (.358 batting, 19 H, 10 RBI, 18 R) … Austin Stephenson, Sr., P/IF (28.1 IP, 3 W, 18 K)

Notable newcomers: Danny Diaz, Sr., P/OF … Nathan Vance, Jr., P/OF … Carter Admire, Soph., C

HENDERSON LIONS

Head coach: Brock Lemire (1st year at Henderson; 132-101 overall)

Assistant coaches: Breon Ector, Brett Jackson and Dennis Kennedy

District: 16-4A (Chapel Hill, Cumberland Academy, Carthage, Gilmer, Kilgore, Pine Tree, Spring Hill)

2024 record: 13-16-2

Returning varsity players: Brian Biggs, Sr., P/OF … Kayne Brantley, Sr., P/OF … Caden Foster, Sr., P/IF … David Jimerson, Sr., P/OF … Maddox Hachtel, Jr., P/OF … Coy Freeman, Jr., OF … Macen Jones, Jr., P/UTIL

Notable newcomers: Sebastian Vega, Jr., IF … Nick Lynch, Soph., P/IF … Hunter Schwettmann, Soph., P/C

Additional comments: “I believe we’ll compete well in our very tough district. We have experience on the mound, but will need to fit in the pieces on the lineup and the field. With a tough pre-district schedule, I believe we will be battle tested for district.” — Lemire

PINE TREE

Mascot: Pirates

Coach: Jarod Davidson

2024 record: 12-16 overall/3-11 district

District: 16-4A (Carthage, Chapel Hill, Gilmer, Henderson, Kilgore, Spring Hill, Tyler Cumberland Academy)

Key returning players: Matthew Cates (2.62 ERA) … Braylen Bush (3.23 ERA) … Trey Nafrady (.914 fielding percentage) … Chris Nickoles (.962 fielding percentage) … Bosston Johnson (.297 average) … Parker Johnson

Newcomers to watch: Colton Croft … Braydon Marsh … Manuel Williams

Looks good: “Both starting pitchers (Bush/Cates) return from last year.” -Davidson

Needs work: “Run production.” – Davidson

Did you know: Davidson returns for his second season as Pine Tree’s head baseball coach … Pine Tree is opening a brand-new playing facility in 2025 … It will be next to the softball field, it will have all turf, and there will be a new clubhouse.

SPRING HILL

Mascot: Panthers

Coach: Garrett Methvin

2024 record: 30-11-1

District: 16-4A (Carthage, Chapel Hill, Gilmer, Henderson, Kilgore, Pine Tree, Tyler Cumberland Academy)

Key returning players: Landon Bartell (12-2, 0.55 ERA, 66 K, 89 IP) … Cayden Rhodes (12-3 record, 0.99 ERA, 80 K, 91.2 IP, .284, 19 RBI, 16 runs) … Trent Thompson (.323, 43 hits, 26 RBI, 21 runs, 15 doubles) … Grant Burton (.304, 38 hits, 16 RBI, 1.17 ERA) … Cayson Wilkins (.273, 20 runs, 8 RBI) … Travis Allen (.324, 36 hits, 27 runs) … Mason Barnes (.303, 17 RBI, 17 runs) … Corbin Broyles

Newcomers to watch: Eli Emery … Bryan Seale … Jayce Atkins … CJ Wyche … Mason Hassell … Reid Noon … Trenton Beall … Hudson Bartell

Looks good: “Pitching is almost all back from last year and defense continues to look solid. We return 210 of 273 innings pitched from last year’s season, which had a team ERA of 1.12.” – Methvin

Needs work: “Hitting can always get better. Our average from 2023 to 2024 improved by 22 points as a team last year, which meant 54 more hits and 46 more runs scored, so we are striving to make another gain like that this year.” – Methvin

Did you know: Methvin has a 69-52-4 career head coaching record, and is currently 57-20-3 at Spring Hill … After advancing to the state semifinal for the first time in program history in 2024, Spring Hill’s 2025 baseball team enters with its highest preseason state ranking ever (No. 2 in 4A).

KILGORE

Mascot: Bulldogs

Coach: Zach Hubbard

2024 record: 16-13

District: 16-4A (Carthage, Chapel Hill, Gilmer, Henderson, Pine Tree, Spring Hill, Tyler Cumberland Academy)

Key returning players: Tanner Beets … Joseph Hendrickson … Cade Cox … Jackson Tucker-Phillips … Brody Benson … Kason Henry … Cason Edney … Kolton Hale

Newcomers to watch: Miles Applegate … Jaxon Dickey

Looks good: “The amount of guys we have that can come in and throw strikes.” – Hubbard

Needs work: “Situational hitting.” – Hubbard

Did you know: Kilgore’s home at Driller Park opened in 1947 … The site hosted 3,100 fans for a baseball game between the Kilgore Drillers and the Henderson Oilers after World War II.

GILMER

Mascot: Buckeyes

Coach: Ronnie McNeel

2024 record: 3-22

District: 16-4A (Carthage, Chapel Hill, Henderson, Kilgore, Pine Tree, Spring Hill, Tyler Cumberland Academy)

Key returning players: Brayden Pate … Klien Lindsey … Lathan Kemp … Chevy Edwards … Dillon Griffin … Aiden Davis … Ryder Lange

Looks good: “Leadership and strong work ethic. [Also] defense.” – McNeel

Needs work: “We need to gain some positive momentum going into the season. [Also] pitching depth.” – McNeel

Did you know: Gilmer baseball advanced to the UIL state tournament 30 years ago in 1995.

CARTHAGE

Mascot: Bulldogs

Coach: John Goodwin

2024 record: 25-11

District: 16-4A (Chapel Hill, Gilmer, Henderson, Kilgore, Pine Tree, Spring Hill, Tyler Cumberland Academy)

Key returning players: Brooks Soape … Cade Moore … Cade Ross … Maddox Martinez … Sam Watson … Cale Preston … Kaden Ritter … Blayton LaGrone … Ryan Ezernack

Newcomers to watch: Alex Welk … River Leach … Bransyn LaGrone … Judson Tabor … Conrad Shahan … Kason Raines … Brodie Brewster … Ty Byrd … Andrew Gwinn … Kason Burchette

Looks good: “Infield play [and] starting pitching.” – Goodwin

Needs work: “Mentality, team defense [and] bullpen production.” – Goodwin

Did you know: Carthage finished its new baseball and softball facility in Spring 2024.

RAINS WILDCATS

Head coach: Brandon Kajihiro (4th year at Rains, 74-24-3; 128-78-8 overall)

Assistant coaches: Garrett Moody, Ruston Bult and Aaron Combs

District: 12-3A (Commerce, Lone Oak, Mount Vernon, Paris Chisum, Prariland, Winnsboro)

2024 record: 25-9-1

Returning varsity players: Samuel Haney, Soph., P/UTIL (8-0, 44 K, 2.12 ERA) … David Springer, Sr., OF (.347 batting, 5 2B, 20 RBI) … Carson Blalock, Sr., IF/OF (.318 batting, 3 2B, 19 RBI) … Toby Herndon, Sr., IF (.310 batting, 5 2B, 20 RBI) … Franki Payne, Sr., IF/P (.286 batting, 10 RBI) … Ty Kirby, Sr., OF … Hunter Chandler, Jr., C/UTIL … Memphis McNew, Sr., P/IF

Notable newcomers: Kaden Briggs, Jr., UTIL … Gage Cook, Jr., P/UTIL … Gavin Pierce, Jr. P/OF … Jayden Sheridan, Soph., P/IF … Canaan Clayton, Jr., IF … Lynn Tolleson, Jr., IF

Additional comments: “We are looking to continue the tradition of Rains baseball with a largely new group. We will have several first-time varsity players this year and are expecting big things from them.” — Kajihiro

WINNBSORO RED RAIDERS

Head coach: CJ Williams (1st year at Winnsboro, 0-0)

Assistant coaches: Michael Garcia and Jared Lancaster

District: 12-3A (Commerce, Lone Oak, Mount Vernon, Paris Chisum, Prariland, Rains)

2024 record: 24-7-1

Returning varsity players: Nolee Carroll, Jr. … Camden Capehart, Jr. … Chayne Tedford, Sr. … Ethan Arrington, Jr. … Reed James, Soph.

Notable newcomers: Ben Sheffield … Galen Birdsong … Leon Ackerman … Reed Geraci … Clark Bryant … JW Mullinax … Keylan Orsburn … Ethan Young … Logan Sacrey … Hoyt Brown … Kase Saucier

HARMONY EAGLES

Head coach: Cody Whitworth (3rd year at Harmony, 49-19; 163-106 overall)

Assistant coaches: Kevin Whitaker and Christopher Langford

District: 13-3A (Daingerfield, New Diana, Hughes Springs, Jefferson, Mount Pleasant Chapel Hill)

2024 record: 29-8

Returning varsity players: Leithen Wilkerson, Sr., IF/P … Ollie Trimble, Jr., IF/P … Blayne Hart, Jr., OF/P … Jake Rider, Jr., IF/P

Notable newcomers: Cy Stracener, Soph., IF/P … Cooper Pickett, Soph., IF/P … Cason Horn, Soph., OF/P … Tegan Wise, Soph., IF/P … Tucker Armstrong, Fr., C/P

Additional comments: “The Harmony Eagles will be young and have some big shoes to fill. This crew has a lot of great workers and will carry on the baseball tradition at Harmony.” — Whitworth

NEW DIANA

Mascot: Eagles

Coach: Bernie Martinez

2024 record: 16-13 overall/10-0 district

District: 13-3A (Daingerfield, Harmony, Hughes Springs, Jefferson, Mount Pleasant Chapel Hill)

Key returning players: Colt McDowell (6-2, 2.44 ERA, .208 opponent batting average, 57.1 IP) … Remi Rountree (2-3, 2.76 ERA, .236 opponent batting average, 34 K, 38 IP) … Keaton Bogue (.289, .449 OBP) … Levi Green (.284, 15 runs, 12 RBI, 7 doubles) … Mason Sherman (.286, .423 OBP, 4 stolen bases) … Justice Hankins (23 stolen bases) … Hadley Overby (.638 OPS) … Landon Melton

Newcomers to watch: Jon Wick … Andrew Black … Lucas Newland … Kaiden Robinson … Ayden Hamilton

Looks good: “Pitching and defense in addition to what appears to be some really good chemistry with this bunch. They will be fun to watch.” – Martinez

Needs work: “Continue to progress offensively. Hitting is difficult, so obviously we are no where we need to be. Still, we are working hard to improve our at-bats, be as competitive as possible every pitch, and maximize all our offensive opportunities.” – Martinez

Did you know: Martinez owns a 242-229 overall head coaching record, and is 146-81 at New Diana … The 2025 New Diana baseball roster will feature relatives of past program players … Mason Sherman is a brother of Cohle Sherman, who played for the 2024 district championship and bi-district finalist team … Lucas Newland is a brother of Jacob Newland, who contributed to the 2023 district championship and area round finalist team … Justice Hawkins and Ayden Hamilton are nephews of Skylar Simpson, who appeared on the 2016 area round finalist team … Kaiden Robinson is a nephew of Lane Meshell, who was a member of the 2017 district championship and regional semifinalist team.

JEFFERSON

Mascot: Bulldogs

Coach: Jimmy Phillips

District: 13-3A (Daingerfield, Harmony, Hughes Springs, Mount Pleasant Chapel Hill, New Diana)

Key returning players: Brayden Clark … Isaiah Smith … Tihmyus Taylor … Kobin Tomlinson … Luke Gibbons … Dawson Harper

Newcomers to watch: Grayson Smith .. Kelian Taylor

Looks good: “Pitching and defense.”  – Phillips

Needs work: “Need work on hitting.” – Phillips

Did you know: 2025 will be Phillips’ first season as Jefferson’s head baseball coach.

HUGHES SPRINGS

Mascot: Mustangs

Coach: Logan Puckett

2024 record: 11-15

District: 13-3A (Daingerfield, Harmony, Jefferson, Mount Pleasant Chapel Hill, New Diana)

Key returning players: Trenton Pemberton … Chris Collins … Bryce Ratley … Jake Pearson … EJ Searcy … Tanner Westmoreland …. Kaleb Williams

Newcomers to watch: Hayden Smith … Daxon Worley

Looks good: “I think the guys are hungry with a mind to work.” – Puckett

Needs work: “We had 14 guys in basketball between varsity and JV. This has given us a late start, so we’ll have to cover some ground in tournaments and non-district play.” – Puckett

Did you know: 2025 will be Puckett’s first season as Hughes Springs’ head coach.

DAINGERFIELD

Mascot: Tigers

Coach: Jermaine Mitchell

2024 record: 15-14

District: 13-3A (Harmony, Hughes Springs, Jefferson, Mount Pleasant Chapel Hill, New Diana)

Key returning players: Weston Collard … Jayden Mitchell … Tanner Teeter … Isaiah Parker … Tanner Foster … Treston Smauley … Sage Blackburn … Oscar Hagood … Eli Harris

Newcomers to watch: Reign Wallace … Chris Toon

Looks good: “I have eight returning starters from 2024 season.” – Mitchell

Needs work: “Minimizing the mistakes, which we have been better. And filling up the strike zone.” – Mitchell

Did you know: The 2025 Daingerfield assistant baseball coaches will be Aaron Clevenger, Kris Traylor and Denver Carpenter.

EDGEWOOD BULLDOGS

Head coach: Jason Seale (503 wins)

Assistant coaches: Dawain Dover, Nathan Goetz, Casey Chase

District: 15-3A (Grand Saline, Eustace, Quitman, Malakoff, Mineola, Winona)

2024 record: 29-11-1

Returning varsity players: Alex Martinez, Sr., SS/P (District MVP) … Aiden Fincher, Soph., SS/P … Timothy Cummings, Soph., IF/P … Trevor Golightly, Soph., OF/P

Notable newcomers: Lucas Pippin, Jr., OF/P

Additional comments: “We will be replacing seven starters with young men that are good baseball players. These guys will learn to play at the varsity level fast and with their hard work be competing to win a lot of games. This will be a very hard-working and determined group that will get better every time out this year. We are looking forward to seeing how we grow and play the game.” — Seale

GRAND SALINE INDIANS

Head coach: Kinney LaPade (7th year at Grand Saline, 136 wins)

Assistant coaches: Joey Chastain, Devin Davison and Alan Ladd

District: 15-3A (Edgewood, Eustace, Quitman, Malakoff, Mineola, Winona)

2024 record: 16-12

Returning varsity players: Landon Mayne, Sr., P/3B (.371 batting, 27 RBI; 5-3 pitching; Amarillo College signee) … Carson Brown, Sr., P/1B (.339 batting, 15 RBI; 6-5 pitching) … Michael Tull, Jr., P/UTIL (1-1, 2.70 ERA) … Antoni Quintero, Soph., SS (.289 batting, 20 RBI) … Kaison Bolin, Soph., P/3B/1B (.270 batting, 13 RBI) … Bo Hatchcock, Jr., UTIL

Notable newcomers: Jaycob Price, Soph., UTIL … Gabe Means, Jr., OF … Kolton Prox, Soph., OF/P … Kooper Wright, Soph., UTIL

MALAKOFF TIGERS

Head coach: Chris Powers (3rd year at Malakoff, 38-17; 224-220 overall)

Assistant coaches: Brad Wallace and Brandon Harlan

District: 15-3A (Edgewood, Eustace, Quitman, Grand Saline, Mineola, Winona)

2024 record: 20-8

Returning varsity players: Jack Hustead, Sr., SS … Mike Jones, Sr., C/P … Jaxson Jedlick, Sr., OF/P … Wyatt Wallace, Jr., OF/P … Jason Tennyson, Sr., OF … Cooper Stegall, Jr., P .. Bugg Jones, Sr., 2B … Parker Poteete, Sr., 3B … Brandt Powers, Sr., 1B/OF … Weston Jedlicka, Jr., 1B/P … Ryland Shorb, Jr., OF/P … Bryson Cleveland, Soph., IF/P

Additional comments: “We return seven guys that have started for the past two years.” — Powers

QUITMAN BULLDOGS

Head coach: Brandon Rogers (2nd year at Quitman, 9-19; 35-48 overall)

Assistant coaches: James Fortner and Laetner Greenhill

District: 15-3A (Edgewood, Eustace, Grand Saline, Malakoff, Mineola, Winona)

2024 record: 9-19

Returning varsity players: Davis Watson, Jr., SS/P … Canin Peppers, Jr., 1B/P … Mason Williams, Jr., C … Klayton Meadows, Jr., OF … Jonas Prather, Jr., IF/P

Notable newcomers: Colton Barkdull, Jr., OF (Returning from injury) … Juan Rameriz, Jr., IF/P (Returning from injury) … Logan Davis, Fr., IF/P

Additional comments: “We are looking to improve on last year’s record. We are bringing back a lot of varsity experience and hope that it helps us to become more consistent in our play. We also have several key players returning from injury which should boost our lineup. We are looking forward to a great year.” — Rogers

ARP TIGERS

Head coach: Chris Moore (1st year at Arp

Assistant coaches: Chris Cliborn and Charles Reddick

District: 16-3A (Troup, Gladewater, Sabine, West Rusk, Tatum, White Oak)

2024 record: 12-13

Returning varsity players: Caden Cliborn, Sr., P/1B … Brendon Dark, Soph., P/C … Wyatt Johnson, Jr., OF … Matthew Lowe, Sr., P/2B/3B … AB Martin, Sr., P/1B … Hudson Orpineda, Soph., P/C/OF … Will Sanford, P/1B/OF … Mason Wallace, Jr., P/SS/2B

Notable newcomers: Adan Ponce, Fr., UTIL … Alex Ponce, Fr. UTIL … Hudson Walls, Jr., P/3B

TATUM

Mascot: Eagles

Coach: Dustin Russell

2024 record: 22-10

District: 16-3A (Arp, Gladewater, Sabine, Troup, West Rusk, White Oak)

Key returning players: Cayden Tatum (.352, 13 RBI, .921 fielding percentage) … Dustin Henigan (.358, .423 OBP, 20 RBI) … Jaxen Prince (.289, .429 OBP, 22 hits) … Brody Downs (.282, .426 OBP, .952 fielding percentage) … Cooper Whiteus (.395, .472 OBP, 16 RBI) … Kody Hines (.328, .525 OBP, 24 runs) … Grant Adcock (.342, .468 OBP, .976 fielding percentage) … Colt Bullard (.368, .427 OBP, 32 hits, 31 RBI, 7 doubles, 5 HR)

Newcomers to watch: Tristen Berry …. Logen Tovar

Looks good: “We will be returning several three and four-year varsity starters from three District 16-3A champion teams as well as two regional semifinalist teams and a regional quarterfinalist team. Having the playoff exprience from the past several seasons and knowing what it takes to get to that point is invaluable. We are [also] two-deep in most positions and have a lot of competition with some very talented players.” – Russell

Needs work: “We will have to figure out who we are going to be able to depend on the mound as our starters once district comes around. We will have more arms than we ever have had, but finding the guys who will be able to stay established in the strike zone with multiple pitches is going to be key for us.” – Russell

Did you know: Russell has generated a 94-63 head coaching record at Tatum … The Tatum Eagles have enjoyed a run of baseball success the last three seasons … They have earned three straight District 16-3A championships in 2022, 2023 and 2024, and advanced to 2023 and 2024 regional semifinals and the 2022 regional quarterfinal.

WHITE OAK

Mascot: Roughnecks

Coach: Charles Foshee

2024 record: 12-14

District: 16-3A (Arp, Gladewater, Sabine, Tatum, Troup, West Rusk)

Key returning players: Collin Wheat … Brady Greenwood … Kelton Cates … Jordy Robertson … Will Thomas … Logan Langweisch … Jaxsen Ludlow … Tyson McKinney … Braden Callens … Levi Sipes … Tysen McClain

Newcomers to watch: Carson Rhodes … Tate Salter

Looks good: “Pitching and defense.” – Foshee

Needs work: “Offensive production.” – Foshee

Did you know: Foshee has a 106-46-3 coaching record … Wheat signed with Henderson State University as a right-handed pitcher … Current program alumni in the college ranks include Oklahoma’s Gavyn Jones, Prairie View A&M’s Landyn Grant, and Wharton County Junior College’s Tyler Puckett.

WEST RUSK

Mascot: Raiders

Coach: Ronnie Hendrix

District: 16-3A (Arp, Gladewater, Sabine, Tatum, Troup, White Oak)

Key returning players: Cole Jackson … Kullin Taverez … Jase Reasoner

Newcomers to watch: Troy Hunley … Chris Sanchez … Gunner Harp … Cam Brown … Jake Neal … Caiden Landon

Looks good: “We feel good about our senior leadership and the abilities of our young freshmen and sophomores that are going to have to step up to play. We feel our pitching staff will keep us in games throughout the season.” – Hendrix

Needs work: “We need to figure out how all of our pieces fit together with us only returning three players from last year’s third-round playoff team.” – Hendrix

Did you know: The West Rusk baseball field is built on the old rubble of the 1937 explosion, and pieces of rock and concrete still resurface from time to time … West Rusk baseball currently has a multi-generation family program player in Cole Jackson … His dad is a former player and coach that is currently serving as principal … His grandfather was a player and coach that built the surrounding fence to the high school’s current ballpark.

SABINE

Mascot: Cardinals

Coach: Michael Mayfield

2024 record: 

District: 16-3A (Arp, Gladewater, Tatum, Troup, West Rusk, White Oak)

Key returning players: Hudson Coker … Cole Loveless … Hudson McNatt … Lincoln Royce … Colt Sparks … Dalton Taylor

Newcomers to watch: Tristian Hardee … Kale Laing … Landry Laird … Coltyn Lambeth … Hunter Murry … Ashton Pierce

Looks good: “Team chemistry.” – Mayfield

Needs work: “We need to reduce the number of free bases we allow. We also can’t give the other team multiple opportunities with extra outs. We [also] have to make the routine plays.” – Mayfield

Did you know: Mayfield has a 167-146 coaching record.

ELKHART

Mascot: Elks

Coach: Micah Blackmon

2024 record: 2-22

District: 20-3A (Buffalo, Fairfield, Groesbeck, Mexia, Palestine Westwood, Teague)

Key returning players: Gavin Shirey … Cole Horton … Parker Jones … Jackson Denney … Johnny Franklin … Colton Foster … Brent Denson

Newcomers to watch: Coyt Cooper … Michael Shaver

Looks good: “Pitching depth.” -Blackmon

Needs work: “Defense.” – Blackmon

Did you know: Blackmon graduated from Elkhart in 2007 … At the time, Stuart Smith was an assistant coach, and he has come back for the 2025 season to once again serve in that role.

PAUL PEWITT

Mascot: Brahmas

Coach: Josh Cuellar

2024 record: 4-19 overall/0-12 district

District: 17-2A (Avery, Avinger, Detroit, Harts Bluff, Linden-Kildare, Maud, McLeod, Rivercrest, Simms Bowie)

Key returning players: Tyson Jones … JD Smith … Madden Green … Titan Butler

Newcomers to watch: Dalton Hicks

Did you know: Pewitt’s assistant baseball coach will be Corey Jenkins in 2025.

BIG SANDY WILDCATS

Head coach: Jason Cumberland (1st year at Big Sandy; 20 wins overall)

Assistant coaches: Travis Willoughby

District: 18-2A (Alba-Golden, Como-Pickton, Cumby, Fruitvale, Hawkins, Martin’s Mill, Yantis, Miller Grove)

2024 record: 7-11

Returning varsity players: Kaiden Smith, Sr., P/1B/3B .. Logan Brown, Sr., C/OF/3B … Raylyn Hawkins, Sr., 1B/OF/P … Dillon Marsh, Sr., IF/P … Skylar Hamberg, Jr., 2B/OF/P … Aden Hodge, Jr., OF … Jonathon Lawrence, Soph., C/2B

Notable newcomers: Cole Orms, Sr., P/1B/OF … Quinton Strain, Fr., P/IF

OVERTON MUSTANGS

Head coach: Chris Cook (2nd year at Overton, 15-12)

Assistant coaches: Scotty Laymance

District: 19-2A (Beckville, Elysian Fields, Union Grove, Harleton, Ore City, Carlisle, Waskom, Union Hill, Leverett’s Chapel)

2024 record: 15-12

Returning varsity players: Rylan Holleman, Jr., C/P (.456 batting; 2.69 ERA) … Bryce Still, Sr., P/UTIL (.265 batting; 2.47 ERA) … Mason Rowe, Sr., SS (.323 batting) … Braxton Harper, Sr., 1B (.306 batting) … Bryson Bobbitt, Sr., 2B/OF … Brody Brown, Jr., 3B (.308 batting) … Jayden Edwards, Sr., OF … Landon Hill, Jr., P (3.85 ERA)

Notable newcomers: Jacob Osburn, Soph. … Ethan Oates, Soph. … Gabe Miller, Soph.

ELYSIAN FIELDS

Mascot: Yellowjackets

Coach: Blake Wolfe

2024 record: 16-10-1

District: 19-2A (Beckville, Carlisle, Harleton, Leverett’s Chapel, Ore City, Overton, Union Grove, Union Hill, Waskom)

Key returning players: Brody Parker (.408, 24 runs, 21 stolen bases, 17 RBI, 3 doubles; 3-3, 25 K, 2 saves) … John Beavers (.297, 17 RBI, 9 stolen bases, 4 doubles, 2 triples; 5-2, 2.389 ERA, 54 K) … Nunu Kennedy (.397, 27 runs, 26 stolen bases, 13 RBI, 4 doubles, 1 triple) … Evan White (.297, 18 RBI, 11 stolen bases, 3 doubles, 1 triple, 1 HR)  … Cole Parker … Lawson Swank

Newcomers to watch: Braedan Adkins … Zane Childs … Spencer Scott

Looks good: “Feel very good about the pitching depth that we have coming back.” – Wolfe

Needs work: “Looking to see good competition at positions to try to find the best defense we can put on the field behind whoever is pitching.” – Wolfe

Did you know: Wolfe has a 52-75-1 career coaching record and is 23-18-1 at Elysian Fields.

HARLETON

Mascot: Wildcats

Coach: DJ Beck

2024 record: 29-5

District: 19-2A (Beckville, Carlisle, Elysian Fields, Leverett’s Chapel, Ore City, Overton, Union Grove, Union Hill, Waskom)

Key returning players: Carson Wallace (.534, 70 RBI, 7 HR; 10-0, 130 K) … Gage Shirts (.480, 31 RBI, 8 doubles) … Shawn Booth (.329, 21 RBI) … Mason Clark (.311, 30 RBI) … Caleb Correa (.469, 30 RBI, 7 doubles; 5-2, 44 K) … Kayden Skaggs (.333, 27 RBI; 9-1, 49 K) … Bryce Bowen (.949 fielding percentage; 1-0)

Newcomers to watch: Alex Holt … Lucas Townlin … Jackson Mackey … Dawson Copeland … Buddy Nipp

Looks good: “Leadership and defensive depth.” – Beck

Needs work: “We feel like our offensive production is going to have to be improved. So far this season, strides are being made.” – Beck

Did you know: Harleton won the state championship in 2023, and lost to eventual state tournament qualifier Centerville in 2024.

UNION GROVE

Mascot: Lions

Coach: Chad Halcumb

2024 record: 13-9

District: 19-2A (Beckville, Carlisle, Elysian Fields, Harleton, Leverett’s Chapel, Ore City, Overton, Union Hill, Waskom)

Key returning players: Judson George … Carter Cooper … Jacob Griffin … Kayden Day … Wrigley Roberts … Cason Cowan

Newcomers to watch: Hudson Wightman

Looks good: “We have a big senior class that is battle tested. Team chemistry will definitley be a plus this season. We will have a lot of experience on the field that knows the program in and out. This group has high expectations. And with a very competitive district, we will have to rely on their leadership and grit.” – Halcumb

Needs work: “We will be shifting around some guys defensively. This will be a major adjustment for some of them and will take some time and sweat. But, the buy-in has been great, and hopefully by district we will be clicking.” – Halcumb

Did you know: Halcumb has a 153-90 career head coaching record and is 99-54 at Union Grove.

BECKVILLE

Mascot: Bearcats

Coach: Alex Davis

2024 record: 23-5-1

District: 19-2A (Carlisle, Elysian Fields, Harleton, Leverett’s Chapel, Ore City, Overton, Union Grove, Union Hill, Waskom)

Key returning players: Aiden Brantley (.420, .867 ERA) … Aiden Harris (.297, 18 stolen bases, 4 triples) … Baker Seegars (29 runs) … Jackson Lambright (.312, 39 runs) … Brock Wright (19 runs) … Braxton Bullock (.317, 29 runs) … Reed Chapman (.208, 17 runs) … Reese Davis 

Newcomers to watch: Brody Booth … Boston Seegars

Looks good: “Defensively should be pretty good. Got some playoff experience with the returners.” -Davis

Needs work: “We have one of the top pitchers in East Texas, but will need to develop a few guys on the bump to help out.” – Davis

Did you know: Davis has 373 head coaching wins.

ORE CITY

Mascot: Rebels

Coach: Brandt Plasterer

2024 record: 18-8

District: 19-2A (Beckville, Carlisle, Elysian Fields, Harleton, Leverett’s Chapel, Overton, Union Grove, Union Hill, Waskom)

Key returning players: Aydin Thomas (.444; 6-1, 2.01 ERA, 67 K) … Gage Cavanuagh (.420) … Maverick Main (2.9 ERA, 46 K) … Cayden Laster (.323) … Parker Hobbs (.300) … Easton Pena

Newcomers to watch: Dalton Smauley … Blake Johns .. Ty Main

Looks good: “Potential for our pitching staff to be the strength of our team.” – Plasterer

Needs work: “We have to get some young guys exprience, and work to get better in all areas of the game each and every day.” – Plasterer

Did you know: Ore City won its first baseball district championship in 29 years in 2024.

LEVERETT’S CHAPEL

Mascot:  Lions

Coach: AJ Hendrix

2024 record:

District: 19-2A (Beckville, Carlisle, Elysian Fields, Harleton, Ore City, Overton, Union Grove, Union Hill, Waskom)

Key returning players: Carson Ford (.375, 15 hits, 13 runs; 3.31 ERA) … Davis Tryon (.457, .537 OBP, 12 runs) … Ethan Kirk (.255, 13 hits, 9 RBI) … Keaton Geter (.261, 6 hits, 6 runs) … Ethan Williams … Trent Wheat … Ethan Vaden

Newcomers to watch: Dewaylon Brown

Looks good: “The guys are hungry and are willing to learn the little things to make them better. Defense will be a step up from what it has been in the past.” – Hendrix

Needs work: “Pitching and offense. If we can consistently hit the ball or consistently throw strikes, we will be okay in the long run.” – Hendrix

Did you know: Leverett’s Chapel went four rounds in the 2023 postseason under former head coach Dale Irwin.

UNION HILL

Mascot: Bulldogs

Coach: Ethan Durrough

2024 record: 12-15

District: 19-2A (Beckville, Carlisle, Elysian Fields, Harleton, Leverett’s Chapel, Ore City, Overton, Union Grove, Waskom)

Key returning players: Eli Mendoza (.350, 26 runs, 15 RBI) … Cayden Elledge (.212, 12 RBI, 12 stolen bases) … Wyatt Orsburn (.250, 13 RBI) … Jakoby Sumner (.327, 11 RBI, 10 stolen bases) … Payton Harkins (.260) … E.J. Mowery (.448, 25 RBI; 105 K) … Payton Dunn

Newcomers to watch: Harlee Burns

Looks good: “The number of upperclassmen and experience. Pitching should be a strength, along with defense.” – Dorrough

Needs work: “Finding third and fourth pitchers, finding ways to score runs [and] hitting when behind in the count.” – Dorrough

Did you know: Dorrough is in his third season at Union Hill … Mowery was the Longview News-Journal’s All-East Texas Newcomer of the Year last season.

CAYUGA WILDCATS

Head coach: Tony Humphreys (10^th year at Cayuga, 139-81

Assistant coaches: Kyle Wilkins

District: 20-2A (Frankston, LaPoynor, Kerens, Cross Roads, Mildred, Wortham, Avalon, Trinidad)

2024 record: 18-12

Returning varsity players: Colt Mullican, Sr., SS/3B/P (.366 batting, 15 RBI; 60 K) … Tyler Turman, Sr., C/3B (.343 batting, 18 RBI) … Gus Wilfong, Jr., P/1B/OF (.300 batting, 15 RBI; 102 K) … Levi McMahon, Jr., 2B/SS … Harris Reynolds, Jr., OF … Micah Redwine, Soph., OF/P (.324 batting; 4 W, 4 SV)

Notable newcomers: Jesse Wilfong, Fr., 2B/P … Gunner Douglas, Jr., OF/P

FRANKSTON INDIANS

Head coach: Wes King (6th year at Frankston, 97-41; 170-100 overall)

Assistant coaches: Brody Cunningham

District: 20-2A (Cayuga, LaPoynor, Kerens, Cross Roads, Mildred, Wortham, Avalon, Trinidad)

2024 record: 26-8

Returning varsity players: Carson Allen, Sr., P (5-1, 3.14 ERA) … Carson Bizzell, Jr., 3B/P (4-2, 51 K, 2.17 ERA; .363 batting, 38 RBI) … Tristan McCoy, Jr., 2B (.341 batting, 20 RBI, 15 SB) … Aydan Lewis, Jr., SS/P (.262 batting, 25 RBI, 10 SB) … Stevie Fry, Jr., C (.357 batting, 13 RBI) … Bradlee Gould, Jr., OF (16 RBI, 30 BB, 30 R) … Tucker Palmer, Soph., 1B (.227 batting, 19 RBI) … Lucas Bizzell, Soph., OF/P (3-1, 27 K, 4.11 ERA) … Luke Dugan, Soph., DH/P

Notable newcomers: Carter Stibbins, Soph., C/OF … Corbyn King, Fr., 2B/P … Brenson Bacon, Fr., OF/P … Alton Bailey, Fr., IF/P … Braxton Hokit, Fr., UTIL/P … Mason Connally, Fr., C

Additional comments: “We will have to learn how to overcome adversity this year. Also, the younger players are going to need to make big strides to be able to be role players at times.” — King

LAPOYNOR FLYERS

Head coach: Chirs Burroughs (1st year at LaPoynor; 42 wins overall)

District: 20-2A (Cayuga, Frankston, Kerens, Cross Roads, Mildred, Wortham, Avalon, Trinidad)

2024 record: 14-10

Returning varsity players: Case Partridge, Sr., C/P … Colt Rogers, Sr., UTIL/P … David Williams, Sr., UTIL/P … Jameson Klutts, Jr., IF/P … Kaden McKinley, Soph., P

Notable newcomers: Christian Lambert, Sr., 1B/P … Markus Kennedy, Jr., DH … Dylan Willingham, Soph., IF … Cutter Almon, Soph., OF/P … Tate Rogers, Fr., OF … Rowdy Smith, Fr., C/RHP

ALTO YELLOWJACKETS

Head coach: Horacio Soto (2nd year at Alto, 6-16)

Assistant coaches: Robert Barrett and Josh Castillo

District: 22-2A (Cushing, Douglass, Mount Enterprise, New Summerfield, Groveton Centerville, Kennard, Neches, Wells)

2024 record: 6-16

Returning varsity players: Ruben Olvera, Sr., P/C/IF … Bradyn Westbrook, Sr., IF/P … Gaige Glover, Soph., P/IF … Jaylen Finley, Soph., IF/OF … AJ Buckingham, Soph., IF/C/P … Anthony Battle, Sr., IF/C … Layden Rogers, Soph., C/P

Notable newcomers: Jadarion Jones, Fr., IF/OF

CHRISTIAN HERITAGE CLASSICAL SCHOOL

Mascot: Sentinels

Coach: Wes Brumit

2024 record: 8-4

District: TAPPS Division V District 4 (Athens Christian Preparatory Academy, Greenville Christian School, Longview Christian School, Poetry Community Christian School)

Key returning players: Sawyer Brumit … Eli Roraback

Newcomers to watch: Ryder Swain

Did you know: Christian Heritage will have six returning juniors in 2025.