South Winston Salem News

As the 2025 baseball season approaches, the men's team led by Head Coach Jarett Miller is preparing for a challenging year. After a strong finish last season, the team is building on its momentum with determination and a talented roster, including several returning players and promising newcomers.

The upcoming season will feature tough competition with new opponents such as Spartanburg Methodist, the University of the Cumberlands, Voorhees University, and Ohio Christian. These games are expected to test the team's skills and present fresh challenges.

"We're really looking forward to playing some of these new schools," said Coach Miller. "It should make for some really competitive games, and we're excited to see how our guys respond on the field."

Success this season will depend on maintaining consistency and structure. Coach Miller emphasizes a focused approach in practice and recovery to keep players healthy and developing their skills. By prioritizing fundamentals and structured practice schedules, the team aims to build on last year's achievements.

"Our focus is on consistency," explained Miller. "When you practice with structure and attention to detail, that translates to success in the games. Playing fundamentally sound baseball is key, and if we can maintain that approach, we should see good results."

The team's culture focuses on family and professionalism. "We're all about the brotherhood," said Miller. "Our players know that family goes beyond the baseball field... We also stress professionalism in every situation—especially when adversity strikes."

Key returners like outfielder Alexiel Delgado (Sr.), shortstop/pitcher Alejandro Rodriguez (Sr.), starting pitcher Jovany Mendez (Sr.), designated hitter/pitcher Paxton Tucker (So.), catcher Jacob Ananias (So.), sophomore Matthew Kelley, senior Abdiel Santana, senior Elias Nurideen, junior Derek Martinez are expected to play vital roles this season.

Coach Miller also anticipates significant contributions from newcomers such as Nick Franklin, Chase Lee, Jacob Gillming infielders; outfielders Garrett Axsom, Keanan White; pitchers Michael Dressendorfer Brian Oakley Calister Presnell; catchers Alexis Fontanez CJ Boyd.

As they enter 2025 with seasoned veterans newcomers committed coaching staff camaraderie values hard work talent focus building success anticipated.

"We're all ready to see what we can accomplish this year," Coach Miller concluded. "We've got a lot of talent... I believe we'll have a very successful season."