Tiger baseball opens against Eagle

The Mountain Home Tigers open their 2005 baseball season at home Thursday against Eagle.

Tiger baseball coach Travis DeVore was pleased with this year's turnout for baseball.

"Actually, it's the best turnout since I've been involved in the program, so we're real happy with the kids that came out and it gives us two strong teams. I think the JV is going to be especially strong, and with the group of freshmen that came out, I think we'll be reaping the benefits of these kids in the years to come."

DeVore likes the experience he has coming back from last year's squad that went 14-13 overall, captured the District Tournament and went 1-2 at state.

"We got better as the season went along last year, as guys adjusted to playing spots they hadn't played before. Guys like Brett Young had an amazing season for us, Brett Grodi was a big player for us, and we have both of those guys back, and our pitching staff looks awesome.

"(Michael) Hobgood was big for us, and (Brian) Fields and (Michael) DesPres, I'm really excited about the prospects of our pitching staff."

The Tigers open at home against Eagle Thursday at 4:30 p.m., and go to Centennial on Friday for a 4:30 p.m. game. They play at Capital on March 15.

DeVore admits the non-conference openers will be tough, but will use the games to judge the improvements they need to make.

"It'll be a good test for us. I don't go into it with expectations about wins or losses. What we really look at in those games is a chance to understand our team and learn through using these games where guys actually need to be playing. We're looking forward to playing against good quality 5A programs, but for us, the biggest focus is we have to figure out the areas where these guys fit us best on the team."

The Tigers open SIC 4A conference play at Nampa on March 17, returning home to face the Nampa Bulldogs at home on March 18, all games starting at 4:30 p.m.