The Lakota West baseball team will seek its ninth consecutive winning season this spring, but there is one difference. It will be seeking that accomplishment as the Division I defending state champions.

 

The Firebirds went 28-5 overall, 15-3 in the Greater Miami Conference in 2007, including a perfect 7-0 in the postseason.

 

Lakota West, which was ranked fourth in the state, was also ranked No. 23 nationally by RISE Magazine and No. 18 by Student Sports Magazine.

 

This spring, the Firebirds have to replace last year’s graduating class, but there is enough young talent waiting to return to the diamond.

 

Senior center fielder Jimmy Brenneman and juniors Nate Smith (pitcher), Bryan Beaver (pitcher/second base) and Ricky Finley (outfielder) are expected to be consistent players for the team.

 

- Mike Dyer