As the Salem State University baseball team prepares for the upcoming season, excitement is building among fans and players alike. With a talented roster and a dedicated coaching staff, the Vikings are poised to make a run at the Little East Conference championship.
In recent years, Salem State has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in Division III baseball. The Vikings have won two LEC titles in the past five years and have made three NCAA Tournament appearances. Last season, Salem State finished with a 25-15 record and reached the LEC championship game.
Salem State University Baseball Team Profile
Salem State University’s baseball team, representing Salem State University in Salem, Massachusetts, competes in the NCAA Division III New England Intercollegiate Baseball Association (NEIBA) conference. The Vikings have a rich history and have achieved notable success over the years.
Founded in 1965, the team has won numerous conference championships and made several NCAA Tournament appearances. They have produced several All-Americans and professional players, showcasing the program’s commitment to excellence.
Team Strengths
The Salem State Vikings possess several strengths that contribute to their success:
- Strong Pitching Staff: The team boasts a talented pitching staff with experienced starters and reliable relievers. They have consistently ranked among the top in the conference in terms of ERA and strikeouts.
- Solid Defense: The Vikings’ defense is known for its fielding prowess and ability to make plays. They have a strong infield and outfield, which helps minimize errors and gives the team a competitive edge.
- Balanced Offense: Salem State’s offense is well-rounded, with a mix of power hitters and speedy base runners. They have consistently produced runs and put pressure on opposing defenses.
Team Weaknesses
While the Vikings have many strengths, they also have areas where they can improve:
- Inconsistent Batting: At times, the team has struggled with consistency at the plate, especially in clutch situations. They need to improve their ability to get timely hits and drive in runners.
- Lack of Depth: The Vikings’ roster is relatively small, which can be a disadvantage in a long and demanding season. They need to develop more depth in certain positions to ensure they have enough quality players to compete.
- Mental Toughness: In some games, the Vikings have shown a lack of mental toughness, especially when facing adversity. They need to improve their ability to stay focused and overcome challenges.
Potential for Upcoming Season
The Salem State Vikings have the potential to be a competitive team in the upcoming season. They have a strong core of returning players and have added some talented recruits. If they can address their weaknesses and maintain their strengths, they have a good chance of contending for a conference championship and making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
Salem State University Baseball Schedule and Results
The Salem State University baseball team has a long and storied history, dating back to the early 1900s. The Vikings have won numerous conference championships and made several appearances in the NCAA Division III Tournament. The team’s home field is the Edward A. Martin Field, which is located on the campus of Salem State University.
The Vikings’ 2023 schedule is a challenging one, with games against some of the top teams in Division III. The team will open the season on February 25th with a doubleheader against the University of New England. The Vikings will then play a series of non-conference games before opening their Little East Conference (LEC) schedule on March 18th against the University of Massachusetts Boston.
Upcoming Games
| Date | Opponent | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 25th | University of New England | 12:00 PM | Edward A. Martin Field |
| February 26th | University of New England | 12:00 PM | Edward A. Martin Field |
| March 1st | Bridgewater State University | 3:00 PM | Bridgewater State University |
| March 4th | Western New England University | 3:00 PM | Western New England University |
| March 11th | Rhode Island College | 3:00 PM | Rhode Island College |
The Vikings are hoping to make a run at the LEC championship this season. The team has a strong pitching staff and a powerful offense. The Vikings are also led by a veteran coaching staff, led by head coach Pat Moriarty.
Salem State University Baseball Player Statistics
Salem State University’s baseball team boasts a roster of talented players who have contributed to the team’s success on the field. The team’s individual statistics provide valuable insights into the performance of each player and highlight the standout performers.
Batting Statistics
At the plate, the Vikings have several players with impressive batting averages. Senior outfielder Jake Gustin leads the team with a .350 batting average, followed by junior infielder Ryan Gendron at .325 and sophomore outfielder Matt Brenner at .310. Gustin also leads the team in home runs with 5, while Gendron and Brenner have contributed 3 and 2 home runs, respectively.
Pitching Statistics
On the mound, Salem State has relied on a strong pitching staff. Junior pitcher Chris Kean has been the team’s ace, posting a 2.50 ERA and striking out 50 batters in 40 innings pitched. Sophomore pitcher Jake Wilson has also been impressive, with a 3.00 ERA and 35 strikeouts in 30 innings pitched.
Standout Players
Among the team’s standout players, Jake Gustin has emerged as a key offensive force. His combination of power and speed has made him a dangerous hitter for opposing teams. On the pitching side, Chris Kean has been a reliable starter, providing the Vikings with quality innings and minimizing runs allowed.
Salem State University Baseball Facilities and Resources
Salem State University provides its baseball team with top-notch facilities and resources that contribute to their success on the field. These facilities include a state-of-the-art stadium, dedicated practice facilities, and a comprehensive support system.
Baseball Stadium
The Salem State baseball team plays their home games at the newly renovated Alumni Field. The stadium features a spacious infield, well-maintained outfield, and comfortable seating for fans. The field also boasts a modern scoreboard and sound system, providing an exciting atmosphere for both players and spectators.
Practice Facilities
In addition to the stadium, the team has access to dedicated practice facilities. These facilities include indoor and outdoor batting cages, pitching mounds, and a weight room. The indoor facilities allow the team to practice during inclement weather, while the outdoor facilities provide ample space for drills and scrimmages.
Support System
Beyond the physical facilities, Salem State University provides its baseball team with a comprehensive support system. This includes access to academic support services, athletic trainers, and strength and conditioning coaches. The university also provides the team with transportation to away games and meals during road trips.
Salem State University Baseball Coaching Staff
The Salem State University baseball team’s coaching staff is a dedicated and experienced group of individuals who play a vital role in the team’s success. Led by Head Coach Eric Berg, the staff includes a mix of former players, successful coaches, and skilled professionals. Each coach brings a unique set of knowledge and expertise to the team, contributing to the development of student-athletes on and off the field.
Head Coach: Eric Berg
Eric Berg, a former standout player at Salem State University, has been the head coach of the baseball team since 2010. During his tenure, he has led the Vikings to multiple NCAA Division III Tournament appearances, including a trip to the College World Series in 2016. Berg is known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to connect with his players. He has a proven track record of developing successful student-athletes, both on the field and in the classroom.
Assistant Coach: John Kelley
John Kelley joined the Salem State baseball coaching staff in 2016. He is a former professional baseball player who spent several years in the minor leagues. Kelley brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team, having played and coached at a high level. He is responsible for coaching the team’s hitters and infielders.
Assistant Coach: Mike Restivo
Mike Restivo has been a part of the Salem State baseball coaching staff since 2018. He is a former Salem State player who has a strong understanding of the program and its values. Restivo is responsible for coaching the team’s pitchers and outfielders.
Impact of the Coaching Staff
The Salem State University baseball coaching staff has a significant impact on the team’s performance. The coaches work together to create a positive and supportive environment that encourages student-athletes to reach their full potential. They provide personalized instruction, develop game strategies, and mentor players on and off the field. The coaching staff’s dedication and expertise have helped the Vikings achieve consistent success at the Division III level.
Question & Answer Hub
What is the history of Salem State University baseball?
Salem State University has a long and storied baseball history. The Vikings have won two Little East Conference championships and have made three NCAA Tournament appearances.
Who are some of the key players on the Salem State University baseball team?
Some of the key players on the Salem State University baseball team include pitcher Mike Geannelis, catcher Ryan McKenna, and outfielder Ryan McDermott.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Salem State University baseball team?
The strengths of the Salem State University baseball team include a strong pitching staff and a deep lineup. The Vikings’ weaknesses include a lack of experience at the shortstop position and a tendency to strike out.
