One of the NWAC programs that has taken the biggest steps forward in the past couple years has been Centralia. The excitement around the program has grown in leaps and bounds from not only the promotion and excitement seen on social media, but also because of the increase in talent on the field.
Head Coach: Kawika Emsley-Pai
Key Returning Position Players
Andrew Dalton- Dalton will anchor the infield defensively at SS and will be the table setter for the team in the leadoff hitter spot. He brings a quality switch-hitting approach to the top of the lineup and helps set the table for the rest of the team. Last season he hit .393 with 11 hits in 10 games played. He has become a leader off the field as well this year, being voted as position captain.
Trent Jackson- Jackson is returning to play RF this year after having 11 RBIs, 1 HR and 10 runs scored in 10 games played. He will be in the heart of our lineup again and has a bright future ahead of him.
Key Returning Pitchers
Kobe Matsen- Matsen is a 6’7″ RHP who continues to develop and will be a main staple in the rotation. In limited action last season he pitched 6 shutout innings and has had a quality offseason fine-tuning his pitches.
Colby Knutzen- Knutzen last season was the Blazers closer, and he will shift this season to the starting rotation. He attacks hitters confidently with all of his pitches. He had a great fall and the team is expecting big things out of him this spring.
Impact freshman/transfers
Trey Hunt- Hunt transfers in from Sacramento City College and will be play 1B this year and be in the heart of the lineup.
Caden Baker- Baker is a freshman who will be play 3B and pitch out of the bullpen. Baker can really swing it and will be a big part of our offense. He also has firm fastball that will be key coming out of the bullpen.
Derek Beairsto- Beairsto is another tall freshman at 6’4″ who is a local player from Centralia HS. He will be in the starting rotation on the mound and play some 3B as well.
Expectations for 2021
After starting last season 3-1 at Edmonds, and 2-2 against Big Bend enters the 2021 season excited for the potential that they have and the chance to see what they can do in a tough West Region schedule. They have the chance to compete in every game and make a run at the division. #TakeTheWest