Coupeville Sports

Camden Glover returns to anchor the Wolf offense and defense. (Ryan Blouin photo)

It’s a whole new world.

After advancing to the state tourney two seasons in a row, the Coupeville High School baseball team had to fight just to keep the program alive this spring.

Losses to graduation, family moves, injuries, and veteran players opting not to suit up left Wolf coach Steve Hilborn and his staff scrambling.

But they got there, relying on a core group which didn’t flake out like others, and will open the season Saturday with a road trip to Blaine.

The roster is thin, but the spirit is strong among those who remain committed.

“Looks like we’ll have a team. We have 11 right now,” Hilborn said. “Several kids new to baseball but with lots of potential.

“We’re working on basics and having fun,” he added. “And that’s the name of the game.”

Landon Roberts is a rare veteran on a rebuilding Wolf team. (Sherry Bonacci photo)

Leading the way will be senior Landon Roberts, who pitched, played first base, and patrolled the outfield last season.

Juniors Camden Glover and Coop Cooper provide big arms and steady bats, while freshmen Carson Grove and Jayden Little are back for a second year of varsity baseball.

Joining them will be a group of newcomers including senior Jesus Madrigal, making the jump from team manager to on-field player.

Sophomore big man Riley Lawless, freshmen Leo Rodriguez and Phin Rhodes, and 8th graders Trent Thule and Chris Zenz round out the current roster.

Junior Aiden O’Neill, a starter in center field last season, is sidelined as he recovers from surgery after a football injury but will be a key part of the team’s support crew from his perch on the bench.

Carson Grove, already a grizzled vet and just a freshman. (Mindy Grove photo)