By Chris Parker
Josh Trammell enters his first season as head coach of the Exeter baseball program with a motivated roster featuring seven returning starters and nine returning lettermen.
“I think that last season’s early exit in districts and second place finish in the conference has helped the team to grow and mature,” Trammell said. “They are all hungry for post-season success and understand what it will take to give themselves the best chance to succeed.”
Trammell expects to have six players throw a bulk of the innings this season.
“Seniors Cason Antle and Jax Brock, junior Cameron Brattin, sophomore Brexton Bowman, and freshmen Shannon Trammell and Gabe Fuller will all give meaningful varsity innings this spring,” Coach Trammell said. “We have a good mix of styles and look to be aggressive in the zone and challenge batters while trusting our defense to do their job.”
Shannon Trammell and senior Ed Lokot will handle catching duties.
The infield lineup could also feature Antle, Brattin, Mason Lee (junior), Bowman, Briley Hargus (sophomore) and Noah Jordan (sophomore). Look for Brock, Coy Aldridge (junior), Jordan, Hargus and Lee to fill out the outfield lineup.
Antle and Lokot will be key leaders on the team.
“Cason Antle and Ed Lokot will look to lead the team with their competitive nature and desire to compete day in and day out,” Coach Trammell said. “They are two hard-nosed kids who do things the right way and can be invaluable to the younger guys trying to learn how to play meaningful high school baseball.”
Exeter opens the season on Mar. 20 at Miller.
“Our versatility and willingness to be unselfish will be our biggest strengths,” Coach Trammell said. “We have very few players who can’t play multiple positions at the varsity level, and that should help us to be successful on a consistent basis.”
