Shires ready to hit the diamond

By Gloria Austin  
Staff Writer
    After graduating three starting seniors from his roster, Houlton coach Shawn Graham was unsure how the season would go. But, after tryouts, Graham is “more optimistic.”
    Last year, the Shires were defeated 11-4 by Narraguagus in a Class C preliminary game.
    “Things have been looking a little brighter now that I’ve had a chance to evaluate our incoming freshmen,” Graham said. “We return a core of players in key spots.”
    Those players would be seniors Jordan Bragan and Ian Gervais, who will anchor the infield at shortstop and second base, respectively. Seniors Josh Harvey and Corey Woodworth will be alternating beind the plate, and when not catching, Woodworth will play centerfield.
    “These players are all three- and four-year starters,” said Graham. “They should provide good leadership qualities for the underclassmen.”
    Graham sees potential in the freshmen class with Hunter Hanning, Parker Sanderson and Jimmy Fitzpatrick.
    “They all look very promising,” he said. “They will all see varsity time this spring. These three players offer lots of raw talent and versatility.”
    Hanning and Sanderson both pitch, catch and play the infield/outfield positions. Fitzpatrick, according to Graham, is primarily an outfielder “with good speed and he tracks the ball well,” he added.
    Sophomore Jordan Brown is another returning starter, along with junior Chris Anderson.
    “Jordan is more of a utility infielder,” said Graham. He will generally fill the vacated spot of another who is pitching. Anderson will see both time in the outfield and on the mound.
    “Chris will be key to our pitching staff,” Graham said. “He has a good live fastball and a decent curve.”
    But, no matter who is on the rubber, throwing strikes will be a vital factor.
    With the graduation of Levi Prosser, a three-year starter, Graham said that sophomore Doug Dickison “will likely take over first base.”
    Tanner Caron, Wyatt Jenkins and newcomer Ian Bauersfeld will all play in the outfield. Juniors Mike Ring and Aaron Faulkingham will fill the role of utility infielders and designated hitters, as Graham said, “both swing the bat pretty well.”
    According to Graham, the Shires appear to have excellent team speed, lots of available arms, seasoned catchers and players who can play multiple positions.
    “With all that said, the keys to winning high school ball games are throwing strikes, playing fundamental defense, and being able to string together some timely hits,” Graham added. “Last year, our defense was shaky at times, so we’ll have to improve in that department and do a better job of helping our pitchers out.”
    The Shires will open their season on Monday, April 26 at Penobscot Valley High School. They will play the following day, April 27, at home against Presque Isle.