Bears baseball looks to compete for UAA title
Baseball is a streaky and superstitious sport. For the Washington University (WashU) baseball team, their chip on the shoulder from last season’s missed postseason has fueled their desire to compete for the University Athletic Association (UAA) title. Led by a young and hungry lineup, the Bears are determined to make a mark in the upcoming season.
Last year, WashU fell short of the NCAA baseball tournament for the second consecutive year, but not without putting up a fight. After winning 10 of 11 crucial games towards the end of the regular season, the Bears faced a make-or-break series against Emory University. Unfortunately, Emory and subsequent opponents got the best of them, resulting in a heartbreaking end to an otherwise successful 2023 season.
Sophomore shortstop Shane Pellegrino expressed his disappointment with last year’s performance, stating, We lost too many games last year, and I really don’t like that. With a determined mindset, Pellegrino and his teammates are using their previous setbacks as motivation to improve and excel in the upcoming season.
While the Bears bid farewell to three key contributors from last year’s team – Kyle Coates, Broghan O’Connor, and captain Hunter Goldberg – they have welcomed new additions to bolster their offense. Graduate transfers Evan Minarovic, a former two-year starter at third base for Northwestern, and outfielder Sam Polk from Saint Louis University, will bring their talents to the Bears’ lineup. The influx of talent has left Pellegrino optimistic about the team’s chances, stating, Both of those guys are really, really talented and well-versed in the game. Their additions are definitely going to help us get over the hump.
On the pitching front, WashU will rely on experienced starters and a young bullpen. Will Henkel, Sebastian Guzman, and sixth-year graduate student Matt Lopes will lead the rotation, all well-acquainted with UAA competition. Left-hander Will Henkel, who was named to the All-UAA First Team in 2023, is expected to have a standout year. Additionally, the Bears plan to leverage the experience of Matt Lopes, who previously excelled out of the bullpen.
The Bears’ young bullpen will look to make an instant impact with seven first-year pitchers joining the team. Recruits from California and Florida, such as Parker Guthrie and Townsend Stevenson, are expected to play significant roles with their impressive fastballs that top out in the mid-90s. Pellegrino believes that the new additions will address their struggles from last season and contribute to limiting their opponents, stating, Guthrie and Stevenson are two guys who are going to make an instant impact.
In terms of position players, the Bears boast a deep lineup filled with returning talent and consistent performers. Last year, eight players hit above a .300 batting average, all of whom are returning for the upcoming season. Senior captain Clayton Miller brings power to the team, leading in home runs last season, while Pellegrino and Chris Jacinto form a formidable double-play duo in the infield. Outfielder Brandon Buday, who led the team with a .355 batting average and 18 stolen bases, will continue to be a threat on the base paths.
The Bears begin their season on Saturday, February 17, with high hopes and a strong desire to compete for the UAA title. While it won’t be an easy road, WashU remains optimistic about their chances, especially given their previous success and the departure of key pieces from rival teams Emory and Case Western Reserve University. The Bears understand that in the game of baseball, fortunes can change in an instant, and they are determined to make the most of their opportunity this season.
With a deep lineup, talented newcomers, and a motivated squad, Bears baseball is poised to compete at a high level and pursue the UAA title. The journey begins on February 17, and fans can expect an exciting and competitive season ahead.
