The Badger baseball team looks to compete in a full season after their season was cut short in March 2020 due to the outbreak of COVID-19. The baseball team’s record is 4-6 after beating Gatesville at the district home opener last night 1-0.

“I think we will do good,” mother of UT baseball commit Ace Whitehead, Kenna Whitehead said. “We finally have all of our guys from basketball and once they have their arms in shape and knock off some of the rust, we will be good to go.” 

The team’s first official practice was January 22.

 “What has changed is the appreciation you have for every minute you get on the field,” head coach Chance Evans said. “Losing games and memories for the teams last year was a tough pill to swallow. Everyday we get to compete from here on out is a blessing.”

The approach to coaching during a worldwide pandemic is no different. 

“Our philosophy and approach to the game is still the same,” Evans said.

 With the pandemic, fans in the stands have been limited, and per the UIL, fans are still having to socially distance and wear facial coverings. 

“I have not seen any obstacles to watch the boys,” Mrs. Whitehead said. “Some places ask that the [fans] wear their masks and, if asked, everyone does.”

Ace Whitehead, who is starting his senior season this year, has been pitching well for the beginning of the season to prepare for the upcoming games and beyond. 

“I am excited to get to watch Ace’s final high school season and  definitely ready to see him at UT!” Mrs. Whitehead said. “Ace works out with a guy from Dripping Springs that is specific to gaining arm velocity and leg speed. This guy has developed a lot of guys that are playing at some of the highest levels of baseball.”

Major League Baseball scouts have been focusing their attention on the UT commit to see what he will do his senior year and into his years in college.

“We had 11 scouts following us over the summer and so far there have been scouts from the Phillies, Kansas City and the Padres that we know of at games this season,” Mrs. Whitehead said.  “I’d say there is a good chance that [Ace] will be playing professionally.”