By Dana Harding (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
2023 proved to be a magical season for Licking baseball.
The 27-6 Wildcats rolled all the way to a Class 3 state championship.
Entering his eighth season at the helm, head coach Harv Antle will look to field replacements for a talented class of graduates in Malachi Antle, Cole Wallace and Keyton Rinne.
“These three players were four-year starters, tremendous leaders and excellent performers on the field,” Antle said. “They formed the middle of our defense and were the top three in our batting order. Their absence will be felt this season.”
Licking’s returning core includes Rusty Buckner (IF/OF/P), Keyton Cook (IF/OF/P), Silas Antle (IF/OF/P), Kellar Davis (IF/P), Austin Stephens (OF/P), Logan Gorman (OF/P) and Garrett Gorman (OF/P).
“All seven are seniors and will be counted on to lead us both on the field and off the field,” Coach Antle said. “Buckner is committed to Jefferson College in Hillsboro. Cook is committed to St. Charles Community College. Antle is committed to St. Charles Community College. Davis is committed to Missouri State-West Plains Community College.”
Junior Kannon Buckner, junior Kale Cook, junior Cole McCloy and sophomore Karson Walker also return for the Wildcats.
Coach Antle expects a trio of varsity newcomers to compete for playing time this season in junior Jordan Ritz, freshman Jasper McCloy and freshman Conway Adey.
“We expect to contend for titles at the conference, district and state level,” Coach Antle said. “Our strength this year will be the veteran presence we have as a club and the experience we bring to each game.”
On the mound, Coach Antle feels his team’s experience and depth will pay dividends this season.
“We have an experienced staff on the mound,” Coach Antle said. “We feel that quality and quantity of arms is one of our strengths as a team. We may have as many as 10 different players log varsity innings on the mound this spring.”
At the plate, Coach Antle believes his lineup will feature plenty of balance.
“We are looking for some table setters at the top (of the lineup),” Coach Antle said. “Overall, I feel our hitters have the potential to be a very consistent and productive group that will provide our pitchers with sufficient run support.”
Licking opens its season March 15 at Mountain View against Portageville.
