Hereford second basemen Rich Yanda (left) throws over to first basemen Adam Yates during a recent practice. The Bulls are looking to reach the Class 3A state Final Four after losing in the region final round the past three seasons.
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by Andrew Straub

Despite reaching the regional finals in each of the last three seasons, Hereford High baseball team's have their sights set on capturing the elusive title this season.  With a primarily senior-laden roster, including seven returning starters, the Bulls will look for their experience to carry them throughout the postseason.

“We expect our returning seniors to be tremendous assets and leaders on this team,” said Hereford coach Todd Hartshorn.  “We want to win a regional championship.  These guys are hungry for it.  We really think we have the talent to do it its just a matter of whether they can go out and execute and get us there.”

The Bulls will also be bringing up four sophomores from the junior varsity level to serve their role as versatile position players.  Although Hartshorn has never promoted as many sophomores to his team as he has in 2008, his veteran seniors welcome the addition of a more youthful mindset.

“We’re going to be fine. Everybody seems to be adapting to their new positions very well,” said senior Mitch Scheide.  “If we want to win regionals, everyone is going to need to step up. I want to be an all-around great team, and give something for a team to remember us by after we play them.”

Hereford has scheduled several difficult preseason match ups, including MIAA A Conference champion Calvert Hall, in an effort to toughen the Bulls up for a long season against a challenging Baltimore County league.  But as Hartshorn has told his team, with Hereford, its not always what you do in the regular season that people remember you by.

“We tell them its three seasons.  Preseason, regular season, and post season,” said Hartshorn.  “And when it comes down to it, the first two are preseason for what really matters.”


Hereford Bulls baseball, at a glance:

Coach: Todd Hartshorn

League: Baltimore County Division I

Last year’s record: 14-8; lost in 2A North Region finals to Eastern Tech

Top returning players: Rich Landa, Sr., second base; Josh Begg, Sr., catcher; Mitch Scheide, Sr., rightfield/catcher; Adam Yates, Sr., first base/pitcher

Top newcomers: Alex Dawson, So., shortstop/pitcher; Mike Merryman, Jr., third base/pitcher