Mustangs Baseball Team Gears Up for promising Season in San Juan Basin League
Nucla adn NorwoodS combined Mustangs baseball team is setting high expectations for the 2025 season. With a roster of 23 players, including three seniors, the team is focused on overcoming past challenges and achieving critically important success in the San Juan Basin League.
experienced Leadership Guides Mustangs
Head coach Randy Gabriel, a veteran with nearly 20 years of experience coaching the Mustangs, emphasizes player leadership. “We always tell them good teams are coach-led; great teams are player-led,” Gabriel stated, highlighting the team’s aspiration to reach the next level.
Key Players and Strengths
Seniors Josh Platt,Jake Hulst,and Paxtin Caruso bring experience to the team,while Hulst and Brycen Rummel are expected to be key pitchers. Caylon Joseph will also contribute on the mound. Gabriel is impressed with the team’s positive attitude, work ethic, and receptiveness to coaching.
Overcoming Challenges for a Special Season
The Mustangs are working to address persistent issues such as strikeouts, leaving runners on base, and errors. “but when we can put it all together, it’s going to be something special,” Gabriel noted.
Assistant Coach Departs
After nine years, assistant coach Ben Kirk will be leaving, a loss that Gabriel acknowledges will be felt deeply by the team and community.
League Play and Travel
The Mustangs are competing in the San Juan Basin League,a district maintained by the Colorado High school Activities Association (CHSAA). This year’s schedule includes travel to the San Luis valley, resulting in some overnight trips.
High Expectations after Sweet 16 Appearance
Building on last year’s Sweet 16 appearance, the Mustangs aim to improve and hold each other accountable. Despite challenges with players also participating in track and field or taking spring break, Gabriel remains optimistic. “We have high expectations, and we hope to meet them,” he said.
Community Support
The Nucla field is in good condition and bolstered by supportive banners, which the team appreciates.The Mustangs opened league play against Dolores on April 1, marking Dolores’ return to varsity baseball after several years.
How does Coach Gabriel define the difference between a ”good” team and a “great” team?
Mustangs Baseball Team Gears Up for promising Season in San Juan Basin league
Nucla and Norwood’s combined Mustangs baseball team is setting high expectations for the 2025 season.With a roster of 23 players, including three seniors, the team is focused on overcoming past challenges and achieving critically important success in the San Juan Basin League.
Experienced Leadership Guides Mustangs
Head coach Randy Gabriel, a veteran with nearly 20 years of experience coaching the Mustangs, emphasizes player leadership. “We always tell them good teams are coach-led; great teams are player-led,” Gabriel stated, highlighting the team’s aspiration to reach the next level.
Key Players and Strengths
Seniors Josh Platt, Jake Hulst, and Paxtin Caruso bring experience to the team, while Hulst and Brycen Rummel are expected to be key pitchers. Caylon Joseph will also contribute on the mound. Gabriel is impressed with the team’s positive attitude, work ethic, and receptiveness to coaching.
Overcoming Challenges for a Special Season
The Mustangs are working to address persistent issues such as strikeouts, leaving runners on base, and errors. “But when we can put it all together, it’s going to be something special,” Gabriel noted.
Assistant Coach Departs
After nine years, assistant coach Ben Kirk will be leaving, a loss that gabriel acknowledges will be felt deeply by the team and community.
League Play and Travel
The Mustangs are competing in the San Juan Basin League, a district maintained by the Colorado High school Activities Association (CHSAA). This year’s schedule includes travel to the San Luis valley, resulting in some overnight trips.
High Expectations after Sweet 16 Appearance
Building on last year’s Sweet 16 appearance, the Mustangs aim to improve and hold each othre accountable. Despite challenges with players also participating in track and field or taking spring break, Gabriel remains optimistic. “We have high expectations, and we hope to meet them,” he saeid.
Community Support
The Nucla field is in good condition and bolstered by supportive banners, which the team appreciates. The Mustangs opened league play against Dolores on April 1, marking Dolores’ return to varsity baseball after several years.
Q&A: Mustangs Baseball 2025 Season
Q: What is the San Juan Basin League?
A: The San Juan Basin League is a high school athletic conference in Colorado, governed by the CHSAA. Teams compete for league titles and the chance to advance in the state playoffs. Teams from the area compete for the title.
Q: Who are the key players to watch this season?
A: Keep an eye on seniors Josh Platt, Jake Hulst, and Paxtin Caruso. Hulst and Brycen Rummel are expected to be key pitchers, and Caylon Joseph will also contribute on the mound. Watch for breakout performances from these experienced players leading the team.
Q: What challenges is the team working to overcome?
A: The Mustangs are focused on reducing strikeouts, improving their ability to advance runners, and minimizing errors. Addressing these issues will be crucial for their success.
Q: how will the team handle the loss of assistant coach Ben Kirk?
A: while the departure of Coach Kirk will be felt, the team will need to rally. The team will rely on it’s experienced players and positive team spirit to maintain momentum.
Q: What’s the importance of the Sweet 16 appearance from last year?
A: It sets a high bar and raises expectations. The team is aiming to build on that success and go even further in the state playoffs. This is a team with strong potential.
Q: Where can I follow the Mustangs’ progress?
A: Check the CHSAA website for schedules and results. Local news outlets and school websites frequently enough provide updates on high school sports.
Q: When and against who was the first match play?
A: The Mustangs opened league play against Dolores on April 1, marking Dolores’ return to varsity baseball after several years.
Q: What is the team’s focus?
A: The team is focused on team-oriented development, and keeping a positive attitude to ensure the team’s success
As the Mustangs gear up for the 2025 season, their dedication and community support position them for a memorable run. Stay tuned to see if they can make it to the next level!
