With the school year near the end, baseball season is in full swing. The Stevens Raiders varsity baseball team is only three weeks out from the state tournament which takes place in Sioux Falls at the end of the month. So far, the Raiders have a impressive record of 21-6-1. With a good record and a team to remember, approaching state has players hungry for a win. Fourth year pitcher Aidan Jacobs said, “As a senior going into the state tournament, I’m excited to show the rest of the state that west river teams can compete with east river. And ready to represent our side of the state and city.” Hopefully the Raiders can get a big win and shock the other side of the state.
Sophomore Bridger Mez has had nothing short of an amazing season. In a game vs Gillette Riders, number 13 Mez, who is 6th in the batting order, hit a walk off homerun. The moment was what every player dreams of. When asked about the play Mez said, “Hitting the home run felt surreal because it was a walk off moment, it didn’t feel real.” As the season continues hopefully this momentum carries on for Mez.
High school baseball is the highlight of spring for many kids and parents. But for the players it isn’t just about baseball. Jacobs says, “My favorite parts of the season are traveling with my friends and beating Sioux Falls schools after being overlooked every year.” Long hours on the bus and at practice form a bond that shapes how the team plays. Mez said, “My favorite part of playing this year is honestly just how much of a family it feels like. The team has so much chemistry and it just makes playing so much more fun.”
Senior night was held on Mother’s Day, May 10th. For the players this was a special night honoring their moms and their high school seasons coming to an end. Catcher, number 11, Reed Meyer does not plan on playing college ball, so this was a special night. “It’s been an unforgettable journey, and I’m so thankful to have spent one last year playing this game with such a great group of guys. Even though the road is coming to an end, I’ll always remember the years playing baseball as the best of my life” Reeds Mom Julie Meyer who has been a long time supporter of her sons sports says “I will miss watching each players personal growth, the teams bond strengthened and the friendships expanded.”
Hopefully the Raiders varsity team can put on a impressive performance at state and bring home a win for Rapid City. Good luck boys.
