March 1 marked the baseball season-opening practice and thus, high school baseball is now underway. Kingman, whose baseball program is still in its infancy, has laid the foundation of a potential baseball dynasty and improved in each of its three years. Led by Head Coach Toby Munz and a key core of senior players, the Eagles look to do the same this year.

Kingman finished with a 4-15-1 record last season, a season plagued by close losses and less than favorable weather. This spring, the team is taking the field with confidence and determination, as the players aren’t afraid to display their high hopes.

Senior Aaron Minor is no different. His words reflect the team’s attitude.

“It’s state or bust,” he said. “With Austin on the mound, we can beat anybody in the state.”

Aaron, a catcher, and his twin brother Austin, a pitcher, are both solid collegiate prospects. Already committing to play for Barton County for two years, the duo intend on playing for a D1 school in the 2013 season.

The Minor brothers aren’t the only members of the team to receive attention from recruiters. Sam Tatro has garnered interest from Cloud County.

“Sam has a great arm in the outfield and has tremendous closing speed,” said Aaron Minor of his teammate. “He has a great swing from the left side of the plate.”

Danny Finder, who Minor describes as “an absolute rock,” recently signed with Sterling to play both football and baseball.

“(Danny) has a great work ethic and is always itching to get better, which describes this team to the fullest,” Minor said.

This year’s team is built around senior leadership and experience. The Eagles have six seniors that include four four-year starters. The team believes its seniors will be a key to success.

“Our four-year starters are the cornerstone of this team,” said pitcher Austin Minor when asked about team leadership. “In addition, Layne (Klausmeyer) brings depth to an already deep outfield.”

Klausmeyer, who was on the team in his freshman year but not as a sophomore or junior, was a last-minute addition to the team. Coming off an Honorable Mention All-League basketball season, he was persuaded by teammates to play baseball.

“I told him we were going to do big things this season and he could be a big part of our success,” Austin Minor said. “I said, ‘it’s your last opportunity in high school to be a part of something great.’”

Kingman will open the season on April 1 at El Dorado. Kingman, El Dorado, and Haven will play in a triangle meeting.