FAIRLAND OWL BASEBALL
Coach: JOSH SCHERTZ
OUTLOOK
Fairland High School enters the baseball season with experience, momentum and expectations under head coach Josh Schertz. The Owls return most of their roster from last year’s 16-14 squad and believe a strong offseason will help them take the next step.
“The majority of our team returns from last year’s 16-14 squad,” Schertz said. “We’ve had a lot of boys working hard in the offseason. Hopefully the success we’ve had in football this year and basketball will carry over to a big season.”
That optimism starts on the mound, where Fairland will lean on a deep pitching staff led by senior standout Colt Kinsey. Schertz said Kinsey, a 6-foot-4 right-hander with several college offers, will pitch at the next level after anchoring the Owls’ rotation this spring. Kinsey’s versatility also allows him to slide to shortstop or catcher when he is not on the hill, giving Fairland flexibility with its lineup and defense.
Carson Schertz enters his senior season after posting big numbers in his junior season and carries a career batting average of .480 into his final season of prep baseball. Schertz anchors the defense in the infield and has the potential to be an All-State candidate this season.
Sophomore pitcher and infielder Brady Kinsey is expected to make a significant impact as one of the team’s primary arms. “Brady is a sophomore pitcher/infielder who will play a big role in our team this year,” Schertz said. “He will be one of our main arms on the mound.”
Junior pitcher Gabe Esh adds another key piece to the rotation and clubhouse. Schertz described Esh as a great teammate who leads by example and will contend for the No. 2 or No. 3 spot in the starting rotation. “Gabe is a junior pitcher. He is a great teammate that leads by example. He will be in the mix as the number 2 or 3 in the rotation,” Schertz said.
With an experienced core, multiple proven pitchers and athletes carrying confidence from success in other sports, Fairland expects to be competitive throughout the spring. Schertz said the returning players’ familiarity with each other and their work ethic have set the tone for what the Owls hope will be a memorable season.
