By Tyler F. Thompson (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
The Central Bulldogs compiled an 8-16 record last season and fell in opening-round action of the Class 6 District 6 tournament.
Fast forward one year and those trials and tribulations — complemented by seasoned junior and senior players — looks to provide a strong 2024 narrative.
“In my eight years at Central, last year was our best season,” skipper Jerrod White , who enters his eighth year at Central, said. “We had a good group of sophomores last year. We leaned on them a lot.”
A strong junior class will provide the leadership in ’24 as last year’s vocal leader graduated but left an endearing mark upon the players.
Gone is Nathan Elsenraat — a four-year starter. But White is excited for this season. One in which he returns a plethora of talent, as everyone returns outside of Elsenraat and Nick Thompson.
The ‘Dogs return eight lettermen to the diamond this year.
“The expectations this year are elevated. We are going to have a successful, fun season,” White said.
The maturation process has been under a microscope the past year and White has been elated at the growth — both mentally and physically.
No matter if it’s conference play or in the district tournament, the opponent matters very little, White said.
“We don’t get ourselves too concerned with … really who we are playing against that day. We compete against the baseball, we compete together. When we throw strikes and play routine fundamental baseball, our offense gives us a chance, and that is our focus every day,” White said.
Back in the fold this year are: Rowen Hart (all-district 3B); Barrett Burns (all-district utility); Victor Everts (all-district 2B); Zac Cannon (all-district SS); John Gonzalez (all-district C) and Brody Holland and Diego Jimenez.
This season, White’s message is simplistic.
“Control what we can control and not get too caught up in wins and losses and records and opponents and all of that good stuff,” White said with a tongue-and-cheek style.
The Bulldogs’ season opener is slated for March 18 at Forsyth. As for the 2024 identity of the club, White centered upon one tangible.
“I think overall, athleticism,” White said. “We have some of the best athletes I have ever been around or coached.”
Cannon, when not pitching, will be the starting shortstop.
“I cannot say enough things about the level of defense Zac brings. He is a very strong, very quick, explosive athlete. He makes extraordinary plays look routine,” White said.
Holland also will be a vital figure this year. The current junior sustained arm injuries last year but is healthy and ready to go.
“We are going to use him on the mound and in the centerfield,” White said.
Hart is another one for fans to closely monitor this season.
Added White: “Very strong. I think baseball is his future.”
Everts — the Bulldogs’ second baseman — also looks to be a major contributor this spring.
“[He] has put on at least 20 pounds of muscle since his freshman year,” White said. “He is a hitter, great discipline at the plate and hand-eye coordination.”
Senior Dakota Walton is slated to hold down fort in left field.
“We are hopeful he can contribute a lot,” White said.
Gonzalez and Jimenez also look to give the ‘Dogs a boost this season.
The jamboree is scheduled against Conway and Spokane March 13 at Central
