Tigers 2013 Baseball Preview

PRAIRIE GROVE — In the past three seasons the Prairie Grove Tigers have advanced to the state semifinals twice (2010 and 2012) and to the state finals once (2011).

Now with a roster chock full of experienced players, the Tigers find themselves on the precipice of what could turn out to be a memorable season.

The Tigers enter the season ranked No. 2 in the Arkansas High School Coaches Association poll for the 4A classification, however, Prairie Grove coach Mitch Cameron knows that a berth in the finals is not assured and to meet this season’s expectations his team must remain focused.

“We have to take it day by day. These guys know how to win. We just need to stay hungry and on our toes and not get caught up looking ahead,” Cameron said.

Pitchers

The Tigers’ pitching staff is headlined by right-handed ace Aaron Kincaid.

“It is no secret who our number one is,” Cameron said. “Aaron has a lot of experience and has pitched in a lot of big games.”

Cameron said Ty Tice will get a great amount of innings, while Jon Halbert, J.D. Speed, and Brandon May, round out a solid pitching squad.

Infield

Junior Nick Sugg moves from the outfield to catcher in 2013. According to Cameron, Sugg blocks well and has a quick release. Keelon Henderson, who batted over .750 in league play last season, returns to man the first base bag.

May gets the nod at second base, and according to Cameron has worked really hard in the fall. Kincaid, who has already inked his commitment to the Razorbacks, returns for his fourth season at shortstop, with Tice occupying the spot when Kincaid is on the hill.

Weston Bartholomew returns to the “hot corner ( third base)” this season, with Speed possibly seeing some innings in relief. Either Bartholomew or Tice will bat lead off when the Tigers are on offense.

Outfield

“In my opinion, Jon Halbert is one of the best outfielders in the state,” Cameron said about his senior center fielder.

Speed, Spencer Kilgore, Derek Arguello and Creighton Ledbetter will all get opportunity to display their skills at the other two outfield spots.

Overview

With quality arms on the mound, speed on the bases and in the field, and solid bats up and down the lineup, Prairie Grove knows if they maximize their potential, the 2013 season should be very memorable for Tiger fans. Boasting a perfect storm of talent, determination and experience (four senior players have started since their freshman season), the Tigers will be fun to watch.

Even though the Tigers will no longer face Shiloh Christian in conference play, they should still see stiff competition, especially from their U. S. 62 neighbors, Farmington and Lincoln.