Lisbon baseball 2017 baseball

Coach: Randy Ridley (17th year)

Class: C; Conference: MVC

Last year’s record: 14-6 (Lost in Class C South final)

Returning athletes: Seniors — Tyler Halls (P/OF), Ryley Austin (SS), Nick Lerette (C), Nate Havlicek (3B/1B); Juniors — Nick Austin (2B), Cole Bolduc (OF); Sophomore — Lucas Francis (P/3B), Noah Austin (Util).

Key losses: Austin Fournier, Troy Galarneau, Cam Bernier.

Promising newcomers: Senior —Noah Francis (1B/P) ; Junior — Sean Scott (OF/1B/P).

Season outlook: Going from the hunter to the hunted can be the most difficult role reversal in sports, but the Greyhounds are prepared after their surprising run to the Class C West championship game in 2016. They are equipped with two aces on the mound, Halls and Lucas Francis. Lerette and Ryley Austin joined them as MVC all-stars last year. Ridley likes the arms he has to support his top two, and the defense should be solid again, especially when Halls patrols center field. The offense should be more patient to take advantage of the new pitch count rules and the speed on the base paths.