By Kai Raymer (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
You will find an extra level of intensity at Kickapoo’s preseason practices. Competition is in the air.
With only three returning starters in the field, practices and scrimmages will go a long way in determining Kickapoo’s starting lineup this spring. Chiefs coach Jason Howser expects the rugged competition to pay dividends come May.
“Spots are up for grabs and players from all grades will compete daily to be in the lineup,” Howser said. “That daily competition in practice and games will build a competitive team that plays its best baseball late in the season.”
The Chiefs have been a hallmark for yearly success: They’ve won at least 20 games every season since 2014.
Included in that 10-year run: four district championships (most recently in 2022) and a state final four appearance.
A trio of returning starters will try to help Kickapoo maintain its winning ways.
Senior Rylan Smith became a full-time starter last season and will lead a revamped infield unit.
“He’s a great team leader who gives us experience in the infield,” Howser said.
Kickapoo brings back two starting outfielders in seniors Jackson Howser and Silas McKee. Jackson Howser led the team in walks and was second in hits and runs scored.
McKee had the second-best batting average on the team and, like his outfield counterpart, is a capable defensive player.
“We’ll be counting on their leadership this spring,” Coach Howser said.
Chase Hamme, the starting quarterback for Kickapoo’s football team, is a do-everything player on the baseball diamond. He’s expected to play multiple field positions and can also pitch.
“He can do it all,” Coach Howser said. “As a pitcher, he is a strike thrower with an attack mentality.”
Senior pitcher Zach Light will have a much bigger role after going 2-0 in 16 innings last spring. He can also play first base or DH.
“He’s a great competitor who will be counted upon to lead us this spring,” Coach Howser said.
Senior Carter Martin (DH) is known for being a clutch pinch-hitter. He’ll also contend for at-bats as the designated hitter.
Junior Colin Muldoon had a breakout season as a sophomore and became Kickapoo’s No. 1 pitcher. The lefty (4-2) led the Chiefs in innings pitched, strikeouts and ERA. He can also play the outfield when not pitching.
“He’s a fierce competitor who wants the ball in big moments,” Coach Howser said.
Fellow junior Joey Cloninger, a right-handed pitcher, saw limited varsity action a year ago. He’ll contend for a starting spot in Kickapoo’s rotation and also at third base.
“We will have plenty of opportunities for players to earn innings and win a job at the varsity level,” Howser said.
Kickapoo is seeking a bounce-back season (by its standards) after finishing 21-17 overall last season. Nine of Kickapoo’s in-state losses came against teams that finished with 20 or more wins.
The Chiefs graduated a seven-player senior class, led by honorable mention all-state infielder Evan Vienhage. He’s continuing his career at the University of Central Missouri.
Two more all-conference players graduated: pitcher Nate Owen and infielder Cael McCarville. Also gone are Brian Wamsher, Parker Lambeth, Tyrus Shurtz and Nate Vaughan.
The Chiefs have several new players hoping to land full-time varsity roles, starting with seniors Garrett Stanley (OF) and AJ Ellis (C).
“Garrett’s a solid defensive outfielder and puts together competitive at-bats,” Howser said. “AJ is a great communicator with our pitchers and can play a big role for us this spring.”
Junior Canon Hutchins (P/INF) made tremendous strides in the offseason.
“He has really come on this year. He will play multiple spots in our infield and also pitch,” Howser said. “We’re very excited to see him compete this spring.”
A promising sophomore class could make an impact on varsity as well.
Brooks Eaton (C/P), Dylan Smith (P) and Jaymin Meador (P/DH) give Kickapoo pitching depth. Eaton could end up as the starting catcher when he’s not pitching.
“Brooks is a big, physical sophomore with great tools,” Howser said. “Dylan really came on strong last summer and emerged as an arm we can use this spring. He has a great mound presence and can throw multiple pitches for strikes.”
Brody Wilson brings solid defense at first base and could be a spot-starter for the Kickapoo pitching staff.
Jaxon Hill (IF/P), Carden Underwood (UTL) and Nick Lipari (OF) bolster Kickapoo’s athleticism.
“Jaxson is a fast-twitch player who has an outstanding motor,” Howser said. “Carden is also a very athletic player. His versatility will allow him to compete for innings at several spots.”
Kickapoo will compete in a three-team jamboree with Willard and Aurora on Saturday, March 9.
The Chiefs begin the regular season March 15-16 at an out-of-state tournament in Memphis, Tenn. Their home opener is March 20 against Ozark.
“Our expectations are simple: Compete together!” Howser said. “We have a group that can put the team first and have fun with the competition that each game will bring. Success will be determined by the manner we walk through the fire.”
