The current edition of Buckfield Bucks has already made its mark, winning back-to-back Class D West crowns for the first time in school history in 2012-13. The Bucks would like to leave any even more impressive legacy by getting over the hump in 2014 and winning the school’s first Class D state title.
The Bucks graduated three seniors, significant contributors offensively and on the mound to their 17-2 campaign last year. Coach Joe McLaughlin said they will be missed most on the pitching staff, which has been the Bucks’ strength during this run.
“Our success will depend on who steps up as our number two and three pitchers and whether they can throw strikes,” McLaughlin said. “There are a couple of guys looking to take those spots, and while they are working hard and are capable, they have limited experience. It will be important that we play solid defense behind them.”
Seniors Keenan Stockdale and Owen Bennett and junior Tyler Vallee are vying for the right to back up staff ace Jonah Williams. The senior southpaw has been a stalwart on the rubber and in the middle of McLaughlin’s lineup the last three years.
“Obviously, Jonah Williams is our senior leader and ace and we look to him to anchor the staff as well as be productive from the three spot (in the batting order),” McLaughlin said.
Vallee and catcher Jared Eastman lead a strong group of underclassmen who could be key in keeping the Bucks’ dominance of the region going.
“We have some athletic freshmen and sophomores who will be stepping into starting roles, which is exciting,” McLaughlin said.
Western D runner-up graduated six seniors, but only three of those started in the regional championship. Mike Stewart, the staff ace as a freshman, is back to anchor the pitching staff. Valley also expects to challenge with the return of sophomore ace Cody Lawyerson. Wiscasset, which has moved down from Class C, could also be a factor.
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