By Ty Bartell

MINERAL RIDGE OH-  Mineral Ridge Rams baseball coach Anthony Ragozine is excited for the upcoming season, returning a strong, experienced roster. After advancing to the district finals last year, the Rams bring back nearly all key players, with just three seniors on the roster. Despite losing two seniors, including one starter, Ragozine feels confident about the team’s depth and experience.

The lineup is led by four-year starter A.J. Sandy, left fielder, and three-year starter Jack Gillie, who missed part of his freshman season due to injury. Key juniors like Xavier Klamer, who will pitch and play shortstop, and Justin Dailey, the starting center fielder, are expected to make significant contributions. Sophomores like Nick Anderson, a pitcher and outfielder, and Gavin Harding, a promising pitcher and third baseman, are also integral to the team’s success.

Pitching is a strong suit for the Rams, with several experienced arms returning. Ragozine has high expectations for his pitchers, especially after solid performances last year. Freshman Preston Kline adds depth to the staff, and Ragozine plans to rely on this pitching depth throughout the season. The Rams play an aggressive style of baseball that emphasizes pitching dominance, putting pressure on opponents.

The Rams are positioned to compete for a conference title in the competitive MVAC’s Scarlet Division, which includes teams like Lowellville, Jackson Milton, Western Reserve and Waterloo. Ragozine recognizes that the league will be tough this year, but he believes the Rams’ pitching and aggressive style will keep them in the hunt for the championship.Community support plays a key role in the team’s success. The Rams benefit from the involvement and enthusiasm of the Mineral Ridge administration and parents, creating an electric atmosphere at home games, especially during conference matchups.

Looking ahead, Ragozine and the Rams are focused on their first game against Toronto, a perennial powerhouse. The game offers an early test to see where the Rams stand for the season, and Ragozine looks forward to the challenge. He encourages the Mineral Ridge community to come out and support the team, as the Rams aim for another successful season and, ultimately, a district championship banner to hang in the gym.

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