Stepping into the batter’s box, 24 players prepare for the playoffs. Ocean Lakes varsity baseball is ranked No.5 in the region with a record of 9-4 and an overall record of 11-5 according to MaxPreps.com.
“This year we have a much different team dynamic, with everyone picking each other up and playing as one,” said senior Jack Marchesi. “Instead of having a few star players, everyone continues to fill their role and contribute positively.”
Seniors Daved Halloway, Colin Benson and junior Austin Crew lead the team with the top batting averages of 1.000, .469 and .378.
Starting catcher and James Madison University commit, junior Ryan Gocio, has a batting average of .381.
“He is an outstanding player and him being a college commit is great for not only him but the team as well,” said head coach Peter Zell. “Early in the season, he struggled a little bit knowing that there was pressure on him. I have seen him improve over the last few weeks and I can’t wait to see how he will do in the future.”
On April 30, 2024, they played the Kempsville Chiefs at Ocean Lakes. The ending score was 11-1, ending early in the fifth inning. The team averaged a fielding percentage of .913. Only two errors were made on the field early in the game. The players got together and worked out to make sure that it didn’t happen again.
“I think the two errors were pretty minor, but coach Zell came out to the mound during the inning to settle us down which got us to finish out the inning strong,” said sophomore Connor Mais.
With just five games left until the postseason, these boys are determined to work together and encourage one another according to sophomore Brady Nagle.
“With the playoffs just right around the corner, our boys are working harder and harder every day. Having some injuries in the beginning of the season really set us back,” said Zell. “We are training our bodies to get healthier and becoming better for the playoffs.”
