Winning three consecutive regional titles, while no cinch, has been far from impossible in Class C this century. Three teams — St. Dom’s, Calais and George Stevens Academy — have all turned the trick within the last dozen years.
Winning three state titles in a row is a different story. No team has ever done it in Class C since the Maine Principals’ Association began sanctioning it in 1972. That is the history Dirigo must overcome this season. And considering the competition it expects to get in the Mountain Valley Conference this spring, the third time may be the toughest.
Dirigo graduated seven starters after becoming the first team to win back-t0-back titles since 2004. No one is weeping for the Cougars, though, because they are still well-stocked with talent and experience. Kaine Hutchins and Gavin Arsenault are among the best 1-2 pitchers in the conference, and the offense could be even better. Senior first baseman Jack Brown is recovering from ACL surgery and they have some holes to fill defensively, but the Cougars will once again be in the thick of the race.
The most commonly-cited threat to Dirigo’s throne is Monmouth. The Mustangs lost just two starters and boast the deepest pitching staff in the conference. Kyle Fletcher is the ace, but he’ll have plenty of support. The key won’t be pitching support but run support, which was sometimes lacking last year. Fletcher, D.J. McHugh, Brandon Goff and Alex Curtis lead what could be a formidable lineup if its clicking on all cylinders.
Winthrop is enjoying a renaissance as one of the MVC’s contenders. The Ramblers nearly doubled the numbers in their program (24 players, from 13 last year) and have a promising mix of veterans and youngsters ready to contribute. Senior Jared Hanson and junior Ben Allen are back to lead the pitching staff. Drew Stratton and Zach Steele bring speed to the top of the lineup and on defense.
Last season marked the first time in a decade St. Dom’s had gone more than one season without winning Western C. A junior-laden roster suggests the Saints may be another year away, but no one is going to overlook them. Caleb Dostie is the lone returning starter among three seniors. Three juniors, Mitch Lorenz, Mike Bryant and Ray Mosca, form the backbone of the pitching staff and batting order.
Lisbon has a younger roster than last season, but could have one of the most improved teams in the conference if the young talent gels quickly. The battery of MVC all-star Kyle Bourget and honorable mention Tucker Brannon is back to help lead the way.
Mt. Abram is another candidate for rising through the ranks. The Roadrunners return eight starters after reaching the preliminary round in 2013. Senior Cal Dixon will be the new staff ace. Senior catcher Sol Fast anchors the defense.
With no seniors, Mountain Valley will have one of the youngest teams in the conference. The offense will probably have to pick up the slack, particularly early in the season. Ian Austin leads a pitching staff with no varsity experience.
Telstar figures to rebound from a one-win 2013. Having senior Logan Bartlett back to lead the pitching staff after an injury-riddled junior season virtually guarantees that. A promising group of sophomores and freshmen brighten the long-term future even more.
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