Courtesy Photo by Kaitlynn Rousseau The Alpena High School boys varsity baseball team poses in this photo provided by Kaitlynn Rousseau.

ALPENA — Despite a rocky start to the spring season with weather delays, spring break, and limited practice time, Alpena High School’s varsity baseball team is entering the year with determination and high expectations.

“We’ve really only had one full week of practice as a team,” said head coach Eric Mackenzie. “But the kids are working hard every day, and we should have a good season and be competitive.”

This year’s squad is emphasizing unity and communication as foundational strengths. Mackenzie praised his players for their drive and cooperation, noting that their strong work ethic is already showing promise during early practices.

“One of many of the team’s strengths this year is that we work together, communicate well, and the boys have a hard work ethic that will pay off as the season goes on,” he said.

A key focus for the team is consistency, particularly the ability to play complete games by winning every inning and minimizing mistakes.

“We’re working on playing a complete game, winning every inning one out at a time and not giving up extra outs that extend innings,” Mackenzie explained.

As in previous seasons, the coaching staff is dedicated to mastering the “little things.” That includes precise pitch location, staying ahead in the count, and staying competitive on the mound. On defense, the team is focused on making fundamental plays and getting outs. Offensively, Mackenzie wants his players to be aggressive, make solid contact, and put pressure on opposing defenses.

“Every year we focus on doing the little things right,” he said. “Pitching, locating our pitches, not getting behind in counts. Defensively, we want to make plays and play fundamentally sound baseball. Offensively, it’s about not giving at-bats away and putting the ball in play.”

As always, the Wildcats’ goals go beyond daily execution. Mackenzie and his staff are pushing the team to contend in the Big North Conference and make a deep playoff run.

“Our goals are to play good, competitive baseball, be fundamentally sound in all areas, and to win our conference,” Mackenzie said. “We want to set ourselves up to be competitive in the conference and win it.”

With strong leadership and a focus on fundamentals, Alpena’s varsity baseball team looks poised for a solid season — one pitch, one inning, and one game at a time.

The Wildcats will face off against the Sault Area Blue Devils today at noon.