Baseball season quickly approaches with a stronger team than before. The Azle Hornet baseball team has already had scrimmages, as well as the first district games on March 14, 16 and 21.

“Our biggest competition is every district game,” Coach Smith said. “Every team in our district either made the playoffs or were playing a play in game for the playoffs. Our district is one of the toughest districts in Region 1. The last 4 years, our district has produced 2 state champions and 2 regional finalists.”

For seniors on the baseball team, this will be their last year playing high school baseball. Many of the senior baseball players have already signed and begun preparing to play in college.

“Baseball has always been a love of mine from the time I was playing t-ball all the way to now,” Senior Luke Olmsted said. “I just want to continue to get better and stronger in every aspect of the game. Baseball is a game of failure, and I love that because it shows who’s mentally weak and who’s mentally strong.”

Motivation is what drives many of the baseball players to perform their best. Junior Lane Springfield, for example, finds motivation in knowing that he has been given the opportunity to play with his team and share his talent.

“My motivation to play baseball is that not everyone has the opportunity to play this game, and there are kids out there that are really talented and aren’t able to be a part of a team,” he said. “So, for me not to play but be talented at it would be a waste, so I make sure to show up to every game and practice and perform at my best.”

If you’re able to, go support the Azle Hornet baseball team and enjoy the sport known as America’s favorite pastime while still showing support for the team and the school.

“My hopes for this season are for every one of our guys to be able to continue to get better every day and play with intensity and class,” Junior Elijah Briseno said. “Whether we win or lose.”

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Reese Hughes