[Stardust]

South Warren
The Spartans went 12-19 last season and graduated their top pitcher in Austin Heltsley, but coach Chris Gage expects improvement from his second-year program.
“All of these kids have been in the program for a year, and we’ve seen a lot of improvement,” Gage said. “This will be a big year for them, as far as being here for a second year. We’ve got a lot of guys that are in the middle of being pretty good. We’ll see which ones can take that next step and become special players.”
Josh Bartley, a senior pitcher and middle infielder, has already signed with Western Kentucky.
Center fielder Jacob Boose, first baseman Cole Dillard, catcher Tanner Davidson and second baseman Andrew Vanthournout will also contribute, Gage said.
Sophomore Austin Bybee will likely have a bigger role in the pitching rotation.
“He pitched a lot of big games for us last year, and we’ll need him to do the same for us this year,” Gage said.
The Spartans host Owensboro at 6 p.m. Tuesday.



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