By MINDY KEPFIELD

Staff writer

It’s just his second year with the team, but Hillsboro High baseball coach Clint Potucek has set the bar high for his team.

He expects the Trojans to be competitive — for both a league title and then at the regional championships.

“Then we will see,” he said, not quite disclosing his hopes for a state title.

Potucek says developing a depth of talent this season for Hillsboro baseball is his primary challenge, especially for the Trojan pitchers.

“I feel like we have four really good pitchers, but I will look for a few others to step in and give us some innings,” he said.

Returning are juniors Duncan Duell, Alex Caldwell, Phillip Young, Jaxson Hanschu, and Matthew Potucek; and seniors Brenton Lett and Brandon Roberts.

Young, Roberts, Hanschu, and Potucek will lend varsity experience to the 15-member team which will be rounded out by three sophomores, three freshmen and a new junior.

“It’s a great group of boys,” he said. “I know that we will have fun and keep improving as the season progresses.”

Potucek expects a lot from senior Landon Roberts, who will play multiple positions.

“Roberts has done a great job as a leader so far,” he said. “He has great baseball knowledge and helps a lot with the younger guys. He will play first base and pitch and be a big batter in the middle of our lineup.”

Teams from Hesston, Nickerson, and Pratt will offer stiff competition to Hillsboro this year. The team will face Smoky Valley High at 4 p.m. April 6 at home.