Minerva high baseball optimistic it can climb ladder in rugged EBC

After last year’s 9-16 season, which included a 2-8 mark in the Eastern Buckeye Conference, Minerva enters 2026 with optimism fueled by experience, depth, and a strong senior class ready to lead the way.

Head coach Troy Richeson welcomes back a sizeable contingent of lettermen as well as six returning starters, giving the Lions a solid foundation as they look to compete in one of Stark County’s toughest leagues.

“We are excited about the eight returning lettermen and several other players who gained valuable varsity experience last season,” Richeson said. “The energy, leadership, and competitive drive this group brings have us looking forward to the year ahead.”

For leadership, look no further than seniors Braydon Wood (INF/OF/P) and Owen Frazier (INF/OF/P), both key contributors on the mound and at the plate. Wood, a three-year letterman, returns after an impressive junior season in which he hit .316 with 14 RBIs while posting a stellar 1.56 ERA and 59 strikeouts over 54 innings. He is expected to anchor the pitching staff once again.

Meanwhile, Frazier adds versatility and speed, finishing last season with a .250 average and 10 stolen bases while also contributing on the mound.

The Lions’ pitching depth could be a strong suit, with several arms expected to play key roles, including Kaden Kandel (1B/P), Brendan Huth (INF/P), and Lane Tarbet (OF/P). All three gained valuable innings last season and have shown improvement heading into the spring.

“Our pitchers will need to do a great job getting ahead in counts and staying mentally tough against strong offensive lineups,” Richeson said. “We believe the experience they gained last year will help us develop a solid staff from top to bottom.”

Offensively, Minerva returns a productive core, highlighted by junior shortstop Brennan Barnes (SS), who hit .343 last season and could be poised for another big year. Wood has also been a consistent force at the plate, hitting above .300 in each of the past two seasons. Additional contributors such as Kandel, Jason Sivy (C/OF/P), Frazier, Tarbet, and Kolton Almasy (OF/P) all gained key at-bats last season and are expected to take another step forward.

Behind the plate, Sivy and Nick Wandel (OF/C) will handle catching duties. Sivy proved reliable last season, throwing out multiple runners while helping manage the pitching staff, while Wandel brings added toughness and depth to the position.

Taking a page out of the Cleveland Guardians’ playbook, Minerva may also incorporate a more strategic offensive approach this season, focusing on small ball and situational hitting to generate runs.

“We will need to handle the bat well and consistently put pressure on opposing defenses,” Richeson said. “That means being disciplined and strategic in our approach.”

The challenge, however, will be navigating a loaded EBC schedule. Defending champion Carrollton returns a strong lineup, while the remaining league members present tough matchups featuring balanced teams and quality pitching.

Despite the stiff competition, Richeson is confident his Lions will make some noise this season.

“We believe we can compete with anyone in this league,” he said. “But it will require focus, preparation, and bringing our best every single night.”

With experienced leadership, improved depth, and a hunger to take the next step, Minerva looks poised to battle its way up the EBC standings this spring.