After a strong 10-10 outing last season, the Bellwood-Antis baseball team looks to finally break their four year playoff drought in 2025.
The Blue Devils are returning many of their key pieces from last year. However, they are losing key pieces as well. They lost their leader in home runs and slugging percentage, Zach Pier, and their most experienced pitcher in Vincent Cacciotti. Along with them, they also lost Connor Cobaugh and Josh Dorminy.
Now, senior Matt Berkowitz looks to return to the bump after suffering a torn labrum in his junior campaign. Matt showed his heart and dedication last season, playing the rest of the season as a designated hitter after tearing his labrum and still managing to hit .317.
“We have large expectations for the season. We’re a young team that plays with grit, and we’re ready to get rolling,” said Matt when asked about the outlook of the season.
The Devils are also returning their leader in batting average, stolen bases, fielding percentage and hits, junior catcher Cam Swogger. Swogger had a breakout year last season, showing not only his efficiency at the plate, batting .369, but also his skills at the catcher position.
The Devils will be led by a strong senior class, fronted by the aforementioned Berkowitz, Zach Gonzalez, Tanner Swogger and Hunter Kyle. It’s a group that understands the importance of performing during one’s senior ceason.
“My senior season definitely means a lot because it’s my last time playing for Bellwood. This year is more important than ever, and I am confident in the team to find some wins,” Gonzalez said.
This Blue Devil team has a great mixture of senior leadership and underclass talent. The underclassman are lead by Curtis Shedlock, Chase Plummer, Bradyn Partner, Jackson Dorminy and Noah Gulvas.
Plummer was an everyday starter in 2024 who, as a freshman, hit .333 with 8 doubles and 25 RBI. Shedlock, meanwhile, in 10 appearances, allowed only 8 runs and never allowed an extra-base hit. He struck out 14.
When asked about how important the mix of young and older talent was to the team, Assistant Coach Thomas Partner said, “It starts from the top. Obviously, having the senior leadership is really important. We may not have the most seniors returning, but those that we do have seen a lot of varsity playing time. Everyone needs to know there rule and fit into the team. Having the good mix is huge for the team, and it will help us reach our full potential.”
The boys begin their season on Monday, March 17th at home against Williamsburg at 4:30.
