The college baseball season for Mid-Hudson institutions is set to begin on February 14 and will extend into May. Teams from this region compete at various levels, including NCAA Division I, NCAA Division III, and the National Junior College Athletic Association. Among these teams, Army and Marist represent the region in NCAA Division I, while SUNY New Paltz and Mount Saint Mary participate in NCAA Division III. SUNY Orange, Ulster, and Sullivan are part of the NJCAA. Each team has its own dedicated coaching staff, ready to guide their players through what promises to be an exciting season.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the upcoming schedules for each team, highlighting key matchups and venues. The early part of the season sees several games scheduled against non-conference opponents, providing a platform for teams to showcase their talent before diving into more intense conference play. Additionally, it outlines the winter sports coverage by Varsity 845 and Varsity 845U, ensuring fans stay updated on all athletic events in the area.
Coaches Lead the Charge
The success of any college baseball program hinges not only on the players but also on the leadership provided by their coaches. In the Mid-Hudson region, several experienced and passionate individuals are at the helm of these teams. Chris Tracz of Army, Mike Ratchford of Marist, Thomas Seay of SUNY New Paltz, Trevor Purcell of Mount Saint Mary, Stephen Cabarcas of SUNY Orange, Ryan Snair of SUNY Ulster, and Randy Delanoy of SUNY Sullivan bring unique strategies and philosophies to their respective programs. These coaches aim to develop well-rounded athletes both on and off the field.
Chris Tracz, leading the Army Black Knights, emphasizes discipline and teamwork. His approach focuses on preparing players for challenges beyond baseball, instilling values that will serve them throughout life. Mike Ratchford, guiding the Marist Red Foxes, prioritizes player development and community engagement. He believes in fostering a supportive environment where athletes can thrive academically and athletically. Thomas Seay, coaching the SUNY New Paltz Hawks, stresses the importance of mental toughness and resilience. Trevor Purcell of Mount Saint Mary encourages creativity and adaptability, helping players find innovative solutions on the diamond. Meanwhile, Stephen Cabarcas of SUNY Orange, Ryan Snair of SUNY Ulster, and Randy Delanoy of SUNY Sullivan focus on building strong fundamentals and competitive spirit within their teams.
Season Preview: Key Games and Schedules
The college baseball season for Mid-Hudson schools kicks off with a series of intriguing matchups. Army begins its campaign with three games against North Alabama starting on February 14, followed by a trip to Wofford and Air Force. Marist opens its season with a doubleheader against Long Island in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, before facing Wake Forest and other formidable opponents. SUNY New Paltz starts its season later in February with games against Mary Baldwin and Eastern Mennonite. Each team's schedule includes a mix of home and away games, providing diverse experiences for players and fans alike.
Army's early-season challenge includes a stretch of games in Alabama and South Carolina, testing the team's endurance and adaptability. Matches against North Alabama and Wofford will be crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the season. Marist's schedule features several road games, including contests in North Carolina and Virginia, where they will face stiff competition from Wake Forest and William & Mary. For SUNY New Paltz, the opening games against Mary Baldwin and Eastern Mennonite offer opportunities to build momentum heading into conference play. As the season progresses, these initial games will provide valuable insights into each team's strengths and areas for improvement, shaping the narrative of the Mid-Hudson college baseball scene.