Vikings hope to muster hits

By Gloria Austin
Staff Writer
     The East Grand Vikings return eight lettermen to the squad, while bringing on five new players.
    “We have good numbers this spring and as our young players gain experience, the team will improve,” said third-year coach Rex Crocker. “Upgrades at pitcher and catcher will help cut down on walks and passed balls, which plagued us last year.”
    The Vikings will rely on sophomore Nick Gray and freshman Logan Crone off the mound backed by an improved defense.
    Seniors Dustin Morse (outfield), Cleve Kenyon (first base) and Robert Cousins (outfield/catcher) will provide leadership for the young, but talented Vikings. Sophomores Billy Holmes (third base) and James Barry (outfield) are expected to make big contributions, according to Crocker. Rounding out the squad are returning players sophomores Nathan Fox (second base); and Chet Knights (outfield).
    Newcomers to the lineup are freshmen Neil Noble (first base); Kevin Hagerty (outfield) and D.J. Schuurman (pitcher/catcher). Adding depth to the bench are eighth-graders D.J. Oliver and Arthur Russell.
    Traditionally, the Vikings have been active on the base paths and this year is no different, as Crocker has given his runners the “green” light to steal. But, one of the concerns for the Vikings is whether or not the team can muster up hits and score runs to back up their pitchers.