LFO WARRIORS

Last Year: 16-12 overall, 9-7 in 6-AAA Head Coach: Matt Holden (5th season) Assistant Coaches: Cody Commons, Dexter Scudgins, Justin Walker

After a state tournament run in 2021, the end of last season left LFO with a bad taste in its mouth as four straight final region losses kept them out of the playoffs. However, with seven starters back, the Warriors are ready to make amends.

How do you think the region will shape up with the loss of some teams and the addition of new ones?

Holden: “I think this will be as competitive as any region in the state with the addition of Ridgeland, Gordon Lee and Bremen into an already competitive region. I’m glad to see more teams in our immediate area join the region, bringing back some older rivalries to our league.”

Whatisthestrengthofthisyear’steam,or whatdoyouthinkitwillbebythetimethe racefortheplayoffsreallystartstoheatup?

Holden: “The strength of this year’s team will be in our experience. We return seven starters from last year’s team, as well as four pitchers that have played a big part in our staff the past two seasons. We have returning guys that were able to make the playoffs in 2021 and it came down to a tiebreaker last season, so we should be prepared to handle the grind of the region schedule.”

What is the key or keys to the season for your team?

Holden: “The key to this season will be in producing runs. We should have a solid pitching staff and defense, but we have to replace one of the best hitters in the area from last year in Will Carroll. The key for us will be production from our returning starters on offense.”

Seniors: Dylan Blankenship (P/1B), Brent Bowman (OF), Donnie Brown (P/C), Carter Davis (OF), Gabe Helton (OF), Tanner Mantooth (P/SS), Carter Wilson (1B)