High School

A senior baseball player steps up to bunt during the Silver Lake game against Santa Fe Trail. (Photo by Shannon Lindstrom)

Seniors lead baseball team

By Erin Willett

April 04, 2005

Although the Silver Lake Eagles baseball team tied for third at the state tournament last year, they are hoping to advance even further during post-season play this year.

Head coach Alan Cunningham is expecting his team to be very competitive again this season. He looks forward to setting high standards for Silver Lake baseball.

The team is comprised of eight seniors, three juniors, 10 sophomores, and six freshmen. The seniors include: Brady LaMar, catcher and outfield; Chris Wichman, outfield and first base; Tanner Fritz, shortstop, second base, and third base; Curtis Hamilton, pitcher, outfield and first base; Justin Wall, catcher, second base, and third base; Jeremy Mellies, catcher, shortstop, and third base; Adam Simone, outfield, shortstop, and second base; and Danny Devidi, outfield.

A junior prepares for the play during a recent home game. (Photo by Shannon Lindstrom)

Cunningham said the team’s goal is to be victorious in all of their “big” games they play this year.

“We always want to win our league and win the regional tournament that will put us into the state tournament,” said Cunningham.

He said Holton replaced Mission Valley on the baseball schedule, and the team will continue to play Osage City even though they are no longer in the Mid-East League.

Cunningham foresees the seniors being leaders throughout the year.

A senior looks for his chance to shine against Santa Fe Trail. (Photo by Shannon Lindstrom)

“Hamilton, Simone, Fritz, Wichman, and LaMar have played a bunch of innings and know what we need and expect,” said Cunningham.

The Eagles are off to a strong start. They played Santa Fe Trail on March 29 and tied , 4-3 and 8-13. They also played Wabaunsee on April 1 and won both games, 16-2 and 18-6.