BASEBALL PREVIEW 2012 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MONETT TIMES Monett •Purdy •Pierce City•Cassville 2 Monett taps youth this season

By Jared Lankford Last season was a record-setting year for Monett baseball. The Cubs finished 17-8 overall and 5-2 in the Big 8 Confer- ence. The 17 victories set the school record for wins in a single season. In 12 seasons at the helm of the Cubs, coach Michael Calhoun has accumulated a 116-98 record. Graduation gutted the core of Monett’s team, and the Cubs are looking forward to finding the next generation of players to fill the void. Gone from the Cubs lineup are: • Jake Smith, who ended his career as one of the most decorated players in Monett’s history. He was a leader on and off the field. Smith was a honorable men- tion All-State section and named to the All- District and All-Conference first teams. Smith hit .449 for the Cubs last season and had 28 RBI. He signed a national letter of intent to play baseball with Park Univer- sity in Kansas City. • Colten Phillips was a three-year starter at shortstop and improved each year as a ball player. Phillips helped to ignite the Monett offense throughout the year and was an excellent lead-off hitter and was an All-Conference second team honoree. The 2011-12 Monett Cubs baseball team is pictured above. In the front row, from left, are: Kyle McCallister, Chris Murphy, Phillips hit .368 last season with 28 RBI, Kedrick Brink, Shawn Shearburn, Jacob Sperandio, Jarred Witt, Nicky Roberts and Cooper Caldwell. Second row: Carlin one home run and 17 stolen bases. Ballay, Blake Spain, Tyler Ash, Quincy Jackson, Jeremy Maldonado, Isaac Long and Jason Kurima. Third row: Jackson • Marcus Enloe was one of the Cubs Burnside, Chad Swanson, Zack Hammond, Reese Bounous, Aaron Patton, Jeff Craft, Hunter Witt and Jordan Hall. most versatile players. He primarily played [Times Photo by Jared Lankford]

Good luck Missouri Loan Center to all the teams! Payday775 and ChapellTitle Loans Dr at. CompetitiveSuite F • Rates! Monett Missouri Loan235.4200 Center 775 Chapell Dr. Mon-FriSuite F 9-5• Monett 775Sat Chapell 9-12235.4200 Dr. Suite F •Mon-Fri Monett 9-5 Payday and Title Loans at competitive235.4200 rates! Mon-FriSat 9-5 9-12 Payday and Title Loans at competitiveSat 9-12 rates! 3 at third base, but he also pitched for Monett lay) who will eat up most of our innings,” from a torn ACL in only four months be- his best,” said Calhoun. last season. Enloe was selected as an All- said Calhoun. “Our season will ultimately cause he wanted to pitch. This year, Ballay • Matt Schiffner: Schiffner, a senior, Conference and All-District first team come down to how well and how fast we is 100 percent and will be a huge factor on suffered a season-ending injury earlier this member. Enloe hit .329 for Monett last gel as a team. I am excited about the pro- the mound. He is also a very good outfield- year. He will serve as a mentor in the dug- year, with 19 RBI, seven doubles and three cess of finding the best players to fill each er who will fight for a starting spot when out to the younger players. home runs. Enloe signed a national letter of position.” not on the mound. “We need to fill some • Jimmy Polhamus: Polhamus, a se- intent to play baseball at Southwest Baptist Returning for the Cubs this season are: big spots from last year, but we have some nior, chewed up innings last year on the University in Bolivar. • Nicky Roberts: Roberts is a junior good young players,” said Ballay. “We junior varsity. Look for Polhamus to com- • Marcus McCaffrey was the Cubs’ with two years of starting experience at have good pitching, and a senior group that pete for time both in the outfield and on the go-to pitcher. He was an excellent leader second base. Roberts had eight hits with has been part of some successful teams. mound. and young man. McCaffrey finished the eight RBI last season. “I am looking for Mix in some talented young players, and The Big 8 Conference will be tough season with a 5-4 record on the mound and him to step up offensively and be a leader. I think we will battle it out in low scoring this season. Cassville, Mt, Vernon and a 4.70 ERA. Offensively, as well as help with his ex- contests.” Carl Junction return the majority of their • Andy Hagedorn was a very physi- perience on the defensive side,” Calhoun • Jackson Burnside: Burnside is a se- squads. cally gifted player. He improved each year said. nior whose natural position is first base. He “I think that we will have a very tough at Monett and turned into a major run pro- • Aaron Patton: Patton, another ju- will try to make the transition to catcher. conference and district,” said Calhoun. ducer his senior season. Hagedorn hit .329 nior, had a break-out season on the pitch- “He has been working hard on his own,” “Most of the teams in our conference have with 22 RBI and 17 stolen bases. ing mound for the Cubs as a sophomore. said Calhoun. “Jackson is looking to be a a lot of talented players back.” • Doug Aldridge was an extremely He earned second team All-Conference factor both offensively and trying to earn This season, Monett will need to learn hard worker who led by example. He hit and All-District honors last season. Pat- the catching position behind the plate.” on the go and mature quickly if they want .368 for the Cubs last season with 17 RBI ton compiled an 8-2 record on the hill with Burnside feels that he is up for the task. “I to be successful in the win column. and 10 stolen bases. an impressive 2.70 ERA. If the Cubs are think we have a lot of young talent,” said “We will be a very young and inexperi- • Jesse Bremer came into last season to compete this season, the southpaw will Burnside. “A lot of guys want to make a enced team,” said Calhoun. “We will need as one of Monett’s top returning pitchers have to be as effective on the mound as last name for themselves, and as a team, I think our upperclassman to step up with both but was sidelined due to injury. Bremer season. Patton will also see playing time at we are excited to show what we can do.” their leadership and play. We have a large still hit .430 for the Cubs with 25 RBI, 10 first base and in the outfield for the Cubs. • Jeff Craft: Craft, a senior, got some and talented freshman class this season. I doubles and 10 stolen bases. • Jarred Witt: Witt, a senior, played a plate appearances at the designated hitter look for them to compete for a chance at “We had a lot of experience and tal- lot last season in the outfield. He was the position early last season. Craft needs to any of the varsity spots. This should make ent returning last year,” said Calhoun. “We Cubs’ designated hitter. Look for Witt to be take that experience and build on it for this for very competitive practices and should set the school record for wins in a season a full-time outfielder this season. He is an year. He will be fighting for playing time increase their learning curve.” but fell short of our other goals, finishing athletic competitor who will step up to the either at first base or at catcher. Monett opens the season on March 19 second in our conference and losing in the expectations. • Cooper Caldwell: Caldwell, a sopho- at Parkview. First pitch is scheduled for district title game to Mt. Vernon. We had a • Nick Childress: Childress, a junior, more, stepped up for Monett last year and 4:30 p.m. very good season but just came short in our will push for time on the mound. He has ended up being the team’s starting desig- goals.” worked hard in the offseason to improve nated hitter on a veteran team as a fresh- One area of strength for Monett will defensively. Offensively, he has good man. This season, look for Caldwell to For the latest scores this be on the pitching mound. quick hands and just needs more at-bats. continue to improve. He is a very hard season follow us on twitter! “We have two very talented left-hand- • Carlin Ballay: Ballay, a senior, ma- worker who is very coachable. “Wherever @MonettSports ed pitchers (Aaron Patton and Carlin Bal- tured as a player last season. He came back he ends up defensively, I know he will do Hayes Heating and Air Installation & Service of Heating and Air Conditioning Systems, including Dual Fuel Systems & Heat Pumps

We specialize in Change-Outs and New Construction

417.442.7882 Purdy MO 4 Purdy Eagles return leadership

By Jared Lankford The Purdy Eagles look to remain on top of the Ozark 7 Conference, even if some may consider this season a rebuild- ing year. The Eagles won their fifth con- ference title and fourth district title in six seasons last year. The Eagles are guided by seventh- year head coach Joshua Hughes. During his tenure at Purdy, Hughes has compiled a 177-81 record. Purdy finished 13-4 dur- ing the fall season and look for a better spring. “Last year was a great year for our program. We surpassed all our expecta- tions,” said Hughes. “We have again set the bar high for this year’s team.” Purdy won a combined 39 victories in the fall and spring seasons compared to only seven losses last year. The Eagles graduated three players from last year’s team -- Riley Veith, Kev- in Miller and Landon Terry. “That group of seniors who finished their career will be missed,” said Hughes. “We lost over 130 innings of experience, 120 wins and 90 hits to graduation. It will however give our younger players the op- portunity to step up and fill the void.” Returning for the Eagles are: • Reese Stevenson: Stevenson is a se- The 2011-12 Purdy Eagles baseball team is pictured above: In the front row, from left, are: Reese Veith, Tyler Scott, Jared nior who was named the Ozark 7 Confer- Smith, Robby Moody, Martin Sanchez and Timmy Block. Second row: Alex Mareth, Keevin Walker, Austin Hancock, Heath ence Player of the Year as a junior. Steven- Burnside, Brent Cornman and Quin O’Hagan. Third row: Reese Stevenson, Cody Hall, Cameron Terry, Devon Bennett, son was an All-Conference, All-District Drew Williams and Britten Hardwick. [Times Photo by Jared Lankford] I am proud to support Breakfast Anytime community sports. Open 7 Days a Week SUNRISE FAMILY RESTAURANT 845 US Hwy 60 Ste F Now serving Monett & Cassville

State Farm agent Monett 400 S. Main St. • Cassville • 417-847-0782 • OPEN 5 am - 9 pm Kylee Campbell 417-235-1200 202 S. Hwy 37 • Monett • 417-235-8200 • OPEN 5:30 am - 10 pm www.kyleeinsuresme.com [email protected] GOOD LUCK ATHLETES 5 and All-State first team honoree. Last fall, whose fall performance on the mound will continue to get better and will see time increase if he continues to work hard he became the staff ace on the mound with opened more than the Purdy staffs eyes’ some time on the mound as the season pro- and improve on his skills. a 6-2 record and a 2.68 ERA with 102 this fall. Opposing coaches took notice gresses. • Robbie Moody and Lucas White: strikeouts in 50.1 innings of work. Steven- and raved about his ability. Terry pitched • Martin Sanchez: Sanchez is a junior Moody and White are both freshmen who son struggled early in the fall at the plate, 30 innings and was 4-1 with a 3.94 ERA. who needs to focus on his hitting in order work hard every day. They have embraced but after moving him back to the leadoff He is a big, tall, left-handed pitcher that to battle for a starting spot. He has always their roles on the team and work hard to spot, he flourished. He will be expected to all coaches want on their team. Terry is a hit with power, but with a little more con- improve. Both can hit, and Purdy expects lead and push the underclassmen to higher competitor who has become comfortable sistency, he could be a real hitting threat. the future to be bright for both of them. expectations. Stevenson recently signed with his ability on the mound. Terry also • Britten Hardwick: Britten is a big “I expect us to compete at the confer- a national letter of intent to play college led the team last fall at the plate with a and strong senior who can hit the ball hard ence and district level,” said Hughes. “In baseball at the University of Saint Mary in .413 average and 19 hits. all over the field. With extra batting cage conference, we will have tough games Leavenworth, Kan. • Keevin Walker: Walker, another ju- work, he could work his way into the des- against Wheaton and Southwest. We split “Everything is in place for us to have nior, is a defensive-minded player that has ignated hitter’s role this spring. four contests with Wheaton and Southwest a strong season,” said Stevenson. “Our increased his offensive production. He hit • Quin O’Hagan: O’Hagan is a senior is improved from last year.” pitchers need to keep the pitches down. .275 in the fall and will be called upon to transfer and will have a shot at earning a Purdy’s district is loaded with good We need our underclassmen to step up and fill holes in defense. Walker is an ideal spot and could be a big part of the Purdy teams Miller, Southwest, Ash Grove, Dia- play the game like they know how. The up- utility player. If he continues to improve lineup. He continues to work hard and im- mond, Pierce City, Sarcoxie and College perclassmen need to continue to improve at the plate, he could be a big force in the prove. Heights ensure that the May tournament and work hard, and the entire lineup has to lineup. • Jake Henderson: Henderson is a ju- will be highly competitive. produce. We should have a great year.” • Austin Hancock: Hancock is a junior nior who is a strong athletic player. Hen- “We expect to be in the thick of com- • Cody Hall: Hall is a senior and en- and a great athlete. He is strong, fast and derson played right field this fall until a petition and the district tourney,” said joyed a great fall campaign. During the fall can run down a baseball hit anywhere in leg injury held him back. He is a coach’s Hughes. “Miller and Ash Grove have new season, Hall had 15 extra base hits in 17 the outfield. He hit .292 this fall and con- dream, always listening and willing to do coaches, and I know both of them will games with 25 RBI. He will be expected tinues to improve at the plate. Hancock has anything to get better. Henderson has a have their teams ready. Coach Ferguson at to produce in the middle of the order and the perfect speed to bat leadoff or second great upside to his game and could push Southwest and Coach Henderson at Pierce brings great power, speed, and strength in the order. With continued work he will for playing time. City are always preparing their teams to to the lineup. He has already committed be a great asset to the team. • Brent Cornman: Cornman, a sopho- win. Coach Cook at Diamond and Coach to baseball at the College of the Ozarks in • Tyler Scott: Scott is a sophomore more, saw time in right field and played Rice at Sarcoxie always compete at a high Point Lookout next year. who took over the catching role this fall exceptionally well. He will continue to get level, and I expect nothing less this year.” • Devon Bennett: Bennett is a senior and has made great strides. Scott still has better as a player the more he plays. Purdy’s motto is to “outwork your op- and a three-year starter for the Eagles. room for improvement, but he shows signs • Reese Veith: Veith is a sophomore ponent when no one is looking.” Although Bennett played primarily in the of growth and progress on a daily basis. who works hard every day and loves the “Our staff and players take this seri- outfield in his first three seasons, he will Scott’s work ethic is great, and his strength game of baseball. He has improved every ously,” said Hughes. “We will work hard be relied on to take some innings on the is getting better. He will be a great catcher season, and the Eagles expect that to con- to make sure we are in the best opportunity mound. Last fall, Bennett was 3-1 on the for the Eagles’ program as he continues to tinue. to win.” mound and pitched in a few relief appear- work hard. • Kelton Mattingly: Mattingly is a The Eagles open the season on Mon- ances. He also was a key to the middle of • Alex Mareth: Mareth has stepped sophomore who made huge strides dur- day, March 19 against Southwest in the the batting order. into varsity play as a sophomore at second ing the fall season and earned the right to Cassville Tournament. First pitch is set for • Cameron Terry: Terry is a junior base and had a good fall season. Mareth varsity playing time. He could see playing 4:30 p.m.

Keep your eye on the ball!

NESTLEROAD AND ROBERTS, OPTOMETRISTS 507 East Cleveland St. • Monett • 417-235-5250 104 South Hickory St. • Mt Vernon • 417-466-7620 www.visionsource-monett.com

DR. DANNY D. NESTLEROAD DR. JERRY D. ROBERTS OPTOMETRIST OPTOMETRIST 6 PCHS turns to youth this year

By Jared Lankford The Pierce City Eagles baseball team had an up-and-down season last year. The Eagles finished the year 4-14 overall and 2-7 in Spring River Valley Conference (SRVC) play. “We had a disappointing year for our program,” said fifth year coach Darin Hen- derson. “We did not win many games and struggled to compete most games. We took a few steps back last season. On the bright side, a lot of younger players saw action and that will help us compete in the fu- ture.” Depth was a problem for the Eagles. Pierce City started the season with 14 play- ers, but by the end of the year, they only had nine healthy players. “It was a struggle,” said Henderson. “The future is bright, and we have some very young and talented players coming on.” Pierce City lost three players due to graduation: • Trenton Boykin was an All-Confer- ence and All-District first team selection. Boykin had 20 RBI, three home runs and batted .429. “Trenton was a big bat in the middle of our lineup,” said Henderson. “He kept us in a lot of games with his bat and his arm behind the plate.” • Mitchell Gibson was a second team The 2011-12 Pierce City Eagles baseball team is pictured above. In the front row, from left, are: Garron Cantrell, Bo Vincent, All-Conference honoree. Gibson hit .369 Colton Drollinger and Kole Kelley. Second row: Colin Garner, Hunter Jones, Michael Adams, Ian Brottlund, Michael Merri- with two home runs and 20 stolen bases. man, Darren Cox and Michael Vincent. [Times Photo by Jared Lankford] Way to go Teams! PURDY FARM CENTER 417-442-3254 7

“He gave us speed at the top of the lineup,” triple and nine RBI. “Bo is a player that • Colton Drollinger: Drollinger is a game,” said Henderson. “There is a big dif- said Henderson. “Mitchell knew how to can contribute in all aspects of the game,” speedy freshman who is very solid in his ference between high school baseball and make things happen on the base paths.” said Henderson. “He can put the ball in defensive skill set. “Colton can make all Little League. I think once we adjust to the • Gavin Bremer was an anchor at first play to all fields, and he has good speed. the routine plays and some spectacular speed of the game we will be fine. That will base. We expect big things from him this year.” ones,” said Henderson. “He will be asked be the biggest hurdle for us to climb.” Pierce City is guaranteed to be one of Vincent will be asked to play multiple to shore up the middle of our defense at Although his team needs time to adjust the youngest teams in the SRVC this sea- positions this season. Vincent will be the second base.” Drollinger will add speed to to the rigors of a varsity schedule, Hender- son. Of the Eagles’ 12 varsity players, nine opening day starter and will also see play- the bottom of the hitting lineup and set the son does see potential. are freshmen compared to one sophomore, ing time in the outfield and at catcher. table for the Eagles’ power hitters. “We will be fundamentally sound and one junior and two seniors. • Ian Brottlund: Brottlund is a senior • Michael Vincent: Vincent is a fresh- athletic. That will be a benefit for us in the “I am really excited about this group,” who will provide depth and leadership for man with a tremendous talent. “Michael future,” said Henderson. “I look forward to said Henderson. “I think we are going to be the Eagles. “Ian will help us defensively has a good bat and a good arm,” said Hen- this group coming together as a family to a very competitive team. I know we are go- and in the outfield,” said Henderson. “He derson. “He will hit fourth or fifth in the see where they could end up. It is impor- ing to be extremely young, but these fresh- reads balls well off of the bat and has de- lineup and be asked to drive in runs.” In tant for us to play competitive games early man have played 30 to 40 games together cent arm strength.” addition of his offensive responsibilities, and learn how to win at the varsity level.” every summer. They know each other, and • Kole Kelley: Kelley is one of nine he will also throw a lot of innings this year. Pierce City has several key “gauge” they know the game.” freshman making their varsity debut for Vincent possesses a strong arm and can be games that will be used to mark progress Returning for the Eagles are: the Eagles. Kelley will get the starting nod dominant on the mound. Henderson ex- against area schools Purdy, Liberal and • Garron Cantrell: Cantrell, a junior, at shortstop this season. “Kole has a lot of pects Vincent to see time at first base and Diamond have been identified as the teams was named to the All-District and All-Con- potential,” said Henderson. “He is a good the designated hitter positions when not on the Eagles must compete with to have suc- ference second teams last season. Cantrell hitter that is patient at the plate, and he has the mound. cess. hit .407 with eight doubles, one home run great hands on defense and will make a lot • Darren Cox: Cox is a freshman who “Our philosophy this year will be a fo- and 11 RBI last season. Cantrell will an- of plays.” Kelley will also see time in the will see time in the batting order as a des- cus on coming together as a family,” said chor the middle of the Pierce City batting pitching rotation. He has good command ignated hitter. He has the power to hit to all Henderson “It is important for us to learn order. “He hits the ball well to all fields, of multiple pitches. At the plate, Kelley areas of the field. and grow together. It will take every person and he has a nice arm behind the plate,” will hit in the middle of the batting order. • Hunter Jones: Jones is a freshman on this team for us to compete. We have said Henderson. “Garron will also be asked The freshman will be asked to play a huge and an all-around athlete. “Hunter is very to be focused on fundamentals. If we can to pitch some innings for us. He has ma- role for the Eagles this season. coachable,” said Henderson. “He works play solid defense and pitch well we can tured greatly over the last two years.” • Collin Garner: Garner is another hard and is very steady in the field and at compete. • Michael Adams: Adams, a senior, freshman who will step into a starting role the plate. Hunter will compete with some “We have to put an emphasis on these will play in the outfield. “Mikey has good for Pierce City. “Collin is a solid player,” of the older guys for a starting spot in the aspects of the game,” continued Hender- speed and a good arm in the outfield.” said said Henderson. “He makes routine plays outfield.” son. “We can score enough runs to win Henderson. “He will help us defensively on defense, and he will be asked to hit at • Aaron Zabala: Zabala is a freshman if we can play defense and throw strikes. with his speed. He is a hard worker that has the top of our order and put balls in play.” who will compete for a starting spot. We have to make all of the routine plays. developed his game over the course of four Garner is a patience hitter and takes a lot of • Marcus Brown: Brown is a speedy We cannot afford to make mistakes on de- years.” pitches. Pierce City’s success this season freshman outfielder who will compete with fense.” • Bo Vincent: Vincent is a talented is depends on Garner reaching base. On the upperclassmen for a starting position. Pierce City opens the season on March up-and-coming sophomore. As a fresh- defense, he is projected to be the everyday “We play a lighter schedule this year, and I 19 at home against Wheaton. First pitch is man, Vincent hit .302 with five doubles, a third baseman. think that will help us learn the speed of the set for 4:30 p.m.

Come see us for all your We will be open for Best floral needs! Order early! Mother’s Day wishes to We will have fresh flowers, May 1-12 the boys silks and plants! of spring!

AUTO PURDY Young’s HOME Flowers&Gifts FARM INSURANCE LIFE SPECIALTIES HEALTH 800-789-0182 100 Hwy C • Purdy SENIOR 7505 HWY 37 • Purdy 235-9449 or 236-8762 BUSINESS [email protected] 8 Cassville to rely on solid core

By Lee Stubblefield With 10 senior players and eight start- ers returning from a team that tied for the Big 8 Conference crown last year, Cass- ville’s Kyle Wood is anxious to get this baseball season started and expects even bigger things this time around. After a sluggish start, the Wildcats had an unimpressive 6-9 record last spring before turning things around and finishing 12-10. Cassville won eight of 10 to end the season and tied Carl Junction for the conference championship. The season ended with a district semifinal loss to Mt. Vernon. “Last year’s team was definitely a learning experience for everyone that was part of Cassville baseball, coaches includ- ed,” said Coach Wood. “Coming into the year, we only had four players with any varsity experience and one of those left the team. Several young players were thrown into the fire early and often, and we started the season pretty slow. “About halfway through the season, the team started to come together,” said Wood. “We started turning things around with a big win against conference foe Carl Junction, who ended up winning over 20 games. After only losing one conference game to Monett, 7-6, in the bottom of the The 2011-12 Cassville Wildcats baseball team is pictured above. In the front row, from left, are: Josh Brown, Kreg Myers, seventh, we tied for first place in our con- Devon Jenkins, Kyle Brattin, Ty Craig, Travis Honeyman, Marcus Weatherman, Kaymen Walker and Joey McCracken. Sec- ference with Carl Junction. That made ond row: Garrett Kirk, Ben Makela, Gabe Kirk, Trey Rose, Kayleb Sparks, John Cavness, Ricky Nichols, Josh Sexton, Jor- 2011 the fourth year in a row and fifth dan Adams, Cole Beagle and Brett Nickle. [Times Photo by Lidsey Reed] FRIENDLY TIRE Take me out to the Your Car Care Center ball game!

www.imecmonett.com 1716 N 9th St Monett, MO 65708 417.235.3053

West Hwy. 60 • Monett, Mo. 235-6777 9 out of the last six years that the Cassville A unanimous selection as a Big 8 Confer- ing for Ben to be more consistent on the McCracken, Caymen Walker, Clint Luper, Wildcats were outright champions or Co- ence starting pitcher, Cavness won six, mound, and if that happens, Cassville will Joey Haney, Ty Craig and Marcus Weath- Champions of the Big 8 Conference.” lost three and recorded one save in 2011. have a very good one-two punch on the erman. Wood said he was proud of his play- He was also a solid first baseman in the mound. Ben has the ability to help us any Besides a strong lineup, Wood has an ers and the heart they showed all season field and provided a dependable bat in the place he plays and hits in the lineup, and excellent coaching assistant. While Clay long. lineup, batting .413 with a team-leading we look for him to progress from last year Weldy and Jake Lewallen will not be in- “It would have been very easy to have 23 RBI. “Toward the end of the year, John and have a great senior year.” volved with the program this spring, Dan- excuses as to why we weren’t winning started to control every game he started,” • Josh Sexton: Sexton returns for his ny Powers will be working with the team games, but we got better and better as the said Coach Wood. “He only walked 10 senior year after earning a second team and will handle the pitching staff. season went on and we came together as a batters in 60 2/3 innings while striking Big 8 Conference selection at third base. Weldy is now the head track coach, team,” Wood said. “The way we ended the out 80. He even threw a six inning perfect “Last year, Josh was put into a full-time and Lewallen, a volunteer is unable to 2011 season has us looking forward to the game against Aurora to ensure a share of role a lot earlier than expected,” said help this year. 2012 season.” Cassville’s fourth straight Big 8 Cham- Wood. “The plan for Josh was to play a “Both of those guys will be missed by Last year’s weakness has become this pionship. When he wasn’t pitching, John little third base, first base and pitch. He me and the players,” said Wood. “Coach year’s strength. Evan Stubblefield was the was almost perfect in the field at first base became our everyday third baseman the Powers owns an impressive track record only senior in 2011, and the trial by fire for with only one error on the year.” second week of the season and only got in baseball,” said Wood. “He has roots in so many young players has blessed Wood • Trey Rose: Rose returns for his se- better as the year went on. He started the Big 8 Conference as a former player with a deep and experienced squad as the nior season after earning second team All- the year red hot at the plate and was our for Carl Junction, and he continued his season opener nears. Big 8 Conference recognition as a catcher. number four hitter for the rest of the year.” baseball career at the University of Central Returning for the Wilcats this season Rose was the only player besides Cavness Along with exceeding expectations in the Missouri where he won a national champi- are: who had varsity experience in the 2011 field and at the plate, Sexton developed onship and was the Division II Player of • Ricky Nichols: Nichols is a senior campaign. “Trey has started every game into a dependable pitcher for the Wildcats. the Year.” Powers also spent three years who enjoyed a productive junior season. but two as our catcher the past two years,” “This year Josh is going in as our starting pitching in the Minnesota Twins organiza- He was named to the All-State team at Wood pointed out. “He now has great ex- third baseman. He could see some time at tion and served two years as a head coach shortstop and was Cassville’s leadoff hit- perience, and we look for him to be a big- first when Cavness is pitching, and could for Liberal High School. ter throughout the season. Nichols carried time leader on the field from behind the be as high as our number three or four “He is going to bring a lot of experi- a school record .529 batting average, and plate. Trey is capable of taking control of pitcher. Josh is a big strong kid that wants ence to the program, which will only help 17 of his 36 hits went for extra bases. Be- games defensively with his quickness and to be good and works as hard as anybody us get better,” said Wood. sides stealing 11 bases, Nichols also ac- strong arm, and we hope to see that. Trey we have,” Wood said. “We will be a disciplined team that counted for 20 RBI even though he hit had a fantastic season last year at the plate Along with that core group, Wood has will concentrate on the fundamentals of at the top of the order. “Ricky will once by hitting .444 as our number two hitter.” a team with talent and depth. Returning the game of baseball,” Wood added. “We again be our short stop, but we will prob- • Ben Makela: Makela, a senior, will seniors Kyle Brattin, Kreg Myers, Stan- will also focus on team work and helping ably move him down in the lineup so that open as the number two pitcher in the ton Stringer, Travis Honeyman and Austin everyone understand and thrive in their people are on base ahead of him and hope- Cassville rotation. Makela finished with a Deffenbaugh all figure to contribute this roles on the team,” fully we can score more runs,” said Wood. 5-4 won-loss record last year and is a key year. Garrett Kirk and Cole Beagle saw Cassville opens the season on March “We look for Ricky to be a good leader to success for the Wildcats this season. action last year and return as seasoned ju- 16 at the McDonald’s Bulldog Classic in and continue to be a great player for us.” “Ben Makela was our number two starter niors on the Cassville squad. Springdale, Ark. The home opener will be • John Cavness: Cavness, a senior, last year and showed a lot of promise,” The Wildcats also expect support on March 20, when the Wildcats host the heads up the Cassville pitching rotation. said Wood. “We are going to be look- from top newcomers Stone Phelps, Joey Cassville Classic. Proudly supporting area athletics. Good Luck Area Baseball Teams

Five Locations to Serve You

Monett Cassville Monett Super Center 417-847-6623 417-235-6100 417-236-2710 Purdy Pierce City Member 417-442-3247 417-476-2615 EQUAL HOUSING FDIC LENDER www.efcocorp.com [email protected] 10

Monett Cubs 2012 Season Schedule Purdy Eagles 2012 Season Schedule

3/19/12 Springfield Parkview A 4:30 PM 3/20/12 Cassville Tourney A TBA 3/20/12 Mcdonald County A 4:30 PM 3/26/12 Lamar A 4:30 PM 3/23/12 Ash Grove H 4:30 PM 3/29/12 Diamond H 4:30 PM 3/26/12 Springfield Catholic A 5:00 PM 3/30/12 Monett Tourney A TBA 3/30/12 Monett Inv. H TBA 4/02/12 College Heights A 5:00 PM 4/02/12 Carthage Tourney A TBA 4/05/12 Central H 4:30 PM 4/10/12 Mt. Vernon H 5:00 PM 4/09/12 Southwest A 4:30 PM 4/12/12 Lamar A 5:00 PM 4/12/12 Sarcoxie H 4:30 PM 4/13/12 Wheaton H 5:00 PM 4/16/12 Miller H 4:30 PM 4/17/12 Cassville A 5:00 PM 4/17/12 Mcauley A 4:30 PM 4/19/12 Carl Junction A 5:00 PM 4/20/12 East Newton A 5:00 PM 4/24/12 Aurora H 5:00 PM 4/23/12 Wheaton H 4:30 PM 4/26/12 East Newton H 5:00 PM 4/26/12 Pierce City H 4:30 PM 4/27/12 Republic A 4:30 PM 4/27/12 Exeter H 4:30 PM 4/28/12 Aurora JV Tourney A TBA 4/28/12 Purdy JV Tourney H TBA 4/30/12 Purdy H 5:00 PM 4/30/12 Monett A 5:00 PM 5/01/12 Seneca H 5:00 PM 5/01/12 Fordland A 4:30 PM 5/03/12 Reeds Spring H 5:00 PM 5/04/12 Jasper A 4:30 PM 5/07/12 Billings H 5:00 PM 5/07/12 Cassville H 4:30 PM 5/08/12 Everton A 4:30 PM 5/08/12 Galena A 5:00 PM 5/10/12 Logan-Rogersville A 5:00 PM 5/10/12 Clever A 5:00 PM 5/12/12 Districts @ Ash Grove A TBA

Good Luck Teams! Community BENNETT- National WORMINGTON FUNERAL HOME Bank “A name you can trust”

Member FDIC Equal Housing Independently Owned 216 2nd St. • Monett, Mo. Lender & Operated www.cnbbanking.com 235-3141 901 E. Hwy. 60, Monett 235-BANK (2265) Rick Wormington - Owner 444 S. Rinker Ave. www.bennettwormington.com Aurora 678-BANK (2265) 11

Pierce City Eagles 2012 Season Schedule Cassville Wildcats 2012 Season Schedule

3/19/12 Wheaton H 4:30 PM 3/16/12 Springdale Tourney A TBA 3/22/12 Crane H 4:30 PM 3/20/12 Cassville Classic H TBA 3/23/12 Dadeville A 4:30 PM 3/27/12 Reeds Spring H TBA 3/26/12 Exeter A 4:30 PM 4/02/12 Springfield Catholic A 5:00 PM 3/27/12 Sarcoxie H 4:30 PM 4/03/12 Republic A 4:30 PM 3/29/12 Clever H 4:30 PM 4/10/12 Lamar H 5:00 PM 4/03/12 Mcauley H 4:30 PM 4/12/12 Carl Junction A 5:00 PM 4/05/12 Miller H 4:30 PM 4/13/12 Hollister H 5:00 PM 4/09/12 College Heights H 4:30 PM 4/16/12 Mcdonald Co. A 4:30 PM 4/10/12 Jasper A 4:30 PM 4/17/12 Monett H 5:00 PM 4/13/12 Greenfield H 4:30 PM 4/19/12 Seneca A 5:00 PM 4/16/12 Wood Bat Classic A TBA 4/24/12 East Newton A 5:00 PM 4/23/12 Golden City A 4:30 PM 4/26/12 Mt. Vernon H 5:00 PM 4/24/12 Diamond H 4:30 PM 4/27/12 Logan-Rogersville H 4:30 PM 4/26/12 Purdy A 4:30 PM 4/28/12 Cassville JV Tourney H TBA 4/27/12 Southwest A 4:30 PM 4/30/12 Harrison, Ark. H 4:00 PM 5/01/12 Liberal H 4:30 PM 5/01/12 Aurora H 5:00 PM 5/02/12 Miller Tourney A TBA 5/04/12 Carthage A 4:30 PM 5/10/12 Lockwood H 4:30 PM 5/07/12 Purdy A 4:30 PM 5/12/12 Districts @ Ash Grove A TBA 5/08/12 Blue Eye A 5:00 PM 5/12/12 District A TBA For the latest scores this season follow us on twitter! @MonettSports

HIT Sales & Service 500 S. Kyler Monett • 235-7161 IT OUT OF THE PARK Way to go team!!! 12