Name: Willamette University
City and State: Salem, OR
Head Coach
Aaron Swick
Assistant Coaches
Jimmy Meuel, Andrew Shebloski
Who are some key returning position players and what do you hope to see from them this year?
Ethan Fischel, Jeff Hoffman, Luke Werkmeister-Martin, Layton Wagner. We have an older team in the field, a strong core that is capable of creating runs each game. The veteran presence on the field will be impactful with our lack of pitching experience.
Who are your key returning pitchers and why?
Brady Joyner, closer who has done a good job of shutting down games. JD Willis has been successful in a variety of roles for us.
Do you have an incoming impact freshman or transfers that will help the team in 2023?
Transfers – Boone Rush/ LHP/ Linn Benton CC. Carl Lawson/ OF/ Cal Poly Pomona. Steven Verespey/ RHP/ California HS. EJ McGrew/ LHP/ St Marys HS. Nate Hamburger/ OF/ Royal HS. Dylan Turner/ RHP/ Wilson HS
What was the focus and what things did you see from the team in the fall?
We wanted to establish our team culture. We had 15 new players and 2 new coaches so it was important to get everyone on the same page. In the fall, the teams as competitive, determined, and became connected pretty quickly.
What are the expectations and goals for the team entering the season?
We like the makeup and talent of the team. We are deep at a lot of positions so the internal competition has been high. We hope to grow into the team we are capable of and play in the NWC Tournament.