Dirigo baseball preview

DIXFIELD -- The competition changes annually and the Dirigo High School baseball team is adjusting for the upcoming season.

The current group has an opportunity to reach greater heights, but it won't happen over night. There are numerous obstacles to overcome and that became apparent right away.

“After losing only three players from last year, we should be a very competitive team,”said coach Ryan Palmer, who is in his second year. “Preseason is all about fundamentals and lots of repetitions. We all know it can get boring in the gym, but it has to be done. It’s a good time to figure out different scenarios.”

The initial week provided a tease with warm conditions to be outside, but mother nature has been unpredicible ever since. The team has plenty of numbers, who will each receive ample time to show case their attributes.

There are eight returning lettermen: seniors Ben Holmes (pitcher/third base), Cody St. Germain (P/1B), Jake Downland (catcher/outfield) and Caleb Turner (shortstop). Juniors TJ Frost (OF), Chad Snowman (P/3B/OF), Hunter Ross (utility), Spencer Trenoweth (P/OF) and Robbie Babb (OF/DH).

Holmes will anchor the pitching staff. St. Germain and Trenoweth will fight for the #2 spot, while Snowman will spot start and pitch relief.

The team will have an opportunity to test its skills in scrimmages against Gray-New Gloucester and Gould Academy.

The team versatility provides options and will hopefully be an asset. Newcomers include jr. Brett Whittemore (2B) soph. Brian Volkernick (U), Jack Brown (1B), fr. Tyler Frost (U) and Kaine Hutchins (P/OF).

“Offensively, we should be a team that can score a lot of runs,” said Palmer. “We return a bulk of out lineup. Holmes, Snowman, TJ Frost and St. Germain were very productive from the plate last year.”

They will feature multiple different defensive lineups, depending on who is pitching. The coaching staff consists of Dave Berry, Don St. Germain and JV Scott Underhill.

The Cougars have a stern test when they open the regular season against St. Doms (April 18), who will be the team to beat again this year, and Spruce Mountain (April 20). Telstar, Mountain Valley and Monmouth are also teams to watch.