Baseball culture has changed over the years at Porter. While being one of the most successful programs time after time, it has proven itself. The season was cut short due to COVID last year, but no one will forget the 2019 season. The Spartans made a huge impact on the community and put P-Town on the map. The boys went three rounds deep in the playoffs but, unfortunately, lost to Georgetown in a crazy nail-biting 14 inning game.
"The 2021 Porter Spartans take the field this year with desire, passion, and enthusiasm," Head Coach Wayne Ralph said. "We have lost some key players and leaders from last year's squad but have eager players ready to prove themselves and fill those roles. This year's team has a lot of talented athletes which will make us competitive every time we take the field."
With a solid group of returning players, it will be a great season and may even be on the road to State. Key players who will contribute to the season are Conner Westenberg, Seth Sherlock, Jake Tatom, and Zane Adams. According to Coach Ralph, every member of the squad will play a vital role in this season. With young talent and with a lot of returning players with varsity experience, it will definitely be a season to remember.
Westenberg announced his commitment to play Division I baseball at McNeese this past summer. In his sophomore and junior season, he had one error in the outfield and has been the Porter Baseball Defensive Player of the Year both years. Make sure to keep an eye out for him in the outfield.
Another player behind the plate will be catcher Seth Sherlock. He announced his commitment to Alvin Community College this summer as well. He has been on the varsity team as a catcher for Porter since his freshman season. While it may be his last season as a Spartan, he will definitely be someone to keep an eye out for.
Next, we have junior Jake Tatom. He made his first-ever appearance during the playoffs in the 2019 season for Zane Russell at shortstop. We didn't get to see much of Tatom last season, due to COVID. However, he announced his commitment to play Division I baseball at Sam Houston State University, where previous teammate Coltin Atkinson is currently playing.
Lastly, Sophomore Zane Adams will be making his appearance this season. As the only freshman joining the team last season, he's definitely been putting in the work. The pitcher verbally committed to the University of Alabama. As his freshman season was cut short, we'll be able to watch the Alabama commit grow.
The seniors have been leading by example in the offseason. They are always trying to e better and find room for improvement in every area to be the best in their ability.
"They want to leave their legacy in the program like teams in the past have," said Coach Ralph.
Head Coach Ralph is definitely excited for the start of the season. He tries to focus on the players and the program to try and create an environment where they can grow as individuals and most importantly as a team. With a new district, it will be challenging but they are ready to take and prepare for every game. The Porter Spartans will be taking on West Side High School at their very own Spartan Yard on March 2nd to kick off the start of the season. This will also be the first home game. The boys are eager to finally get the ball rolling, so make sure to come out and support them as they make history this season.
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
