Justin Pastoor, Staff Writer

Dordt baseball is in full swing this season as Coach Jeff Schouten’s group has starts off the season with an 11-23 record. The team began the season with a trip to Manhattan, Kansas for a four game series with Manhattan Christian, and continued the season during spring break in Arizona, with nine more games.

With the growth of many players on the team and more depth at a number of positions, the team has made many strides from last year. Many underclassmen are stepping up and taking on college level baseball and learning it all in stride.

The team is led by a group of six seniors; Ryan Bass, Zach Staudt, Eric Anderson, Brad Trimm, Travis Dekkers, and Eric Torgerson.

“We have six seniors on this year’s team and they have all been a blessing. They will be missed next season,” said Coach Schouton.

One highlight on the ball diamond this year was when Dekkers broke the all-time hit record at Dordt College.  His record breaking hit was a line drive to left field against Mt. Marty. The game was stopped after the hit and Dekkers was awarded the record ball.

“It was a great accomplishment for Travis,” said Schouten. “He is a natural line driver hitter who has been a consistent player for us during his four years.”

The Defenders will continue to play this week with a string of GPAC games against Briar Cliff and Midland, and then a two game series with Dakota State, Dakota Wesleyan and Northwestern. The GPAC tournament play will be held May 3, 4 and 5.