Mid-Ohio Valley Spring Sports 2026: Ravenswood baseball has growth in numbers, experience
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RAVENSWOOD -- Ravenswood has grown a lot in a year, both in numbers and in experience.
The roster has expanded from 12 players to 17 and features four seniors -- Issac Adkins, Trey Copen, Kalem Hupp and Hayden Heath.
Adkins, a four-year contributor, is a versatile player who will help all over the diamond, including the mound.
Hupp and Copen are back after a year away from the sport. Hupp will see playing time at first base, in the outfield and on the bump while Copen will primarily play in the outfield. Heath hasn't played since middle school but has made an impression on Wes Swain's coaching staff early on.
Evan Hickman, Cooper Anderson, Brandon Porter and Titan Clarkson make up a talented junior class. Hickman will start in center field and pitch. Anderson, who possesses one the strongest arms on the club, can play around all around the infield. Porter provides depth in the outfield while Clarkson, a first-year baseball player, has shown steady improvement since beginning in the fall.
Lucas Pursley returns behind the dish to headline a strong Red Devils sophomore class. In addition to anchoring the pitching staff, Joe Casto will play both corners of the infield. Brooks Wolfe has the starting shortstop position locked down, but he'll also pitch. Isaiah Nesselroad can play second, outfield and pitcher. Ralphie Rhodes and Bryson Copen may contribute off the bench.
Freshmen Nic Akers (pitcher/outfielder), Antonio Chaffins (outfielder) and Karson Somerville (catcher/infielder) round out the roster.
The Red Devils will feel the absence of boppers Evan Swain and Noah Dawson in their lineup, but Swain is hoping the team's athleticism will be a strength.
"This year's group will bring improved speed and the ability to drive the ball into the gaps, creating a more dynamic offensive approach," Swain said. "Early-season preparation has been challenged by weather, limiting time on the field. As a result, we plan to use the opening stretch of games to ease players into roles and determine the best team chemistry. Off the field, we've seen encouraging commitment, with increased participation in the weight room throughout the fall and winter months."
With a larger roster, returning experience, and a mix of developing talent, Ravenswood figures to be an exciting team to watch as the season unfolds.