Twin Rivers Royals are ready to hit the diamond

The Twin Rivers High School Royals baseball team is ready to step back onto the diamond for their 2023 2024 fall baseball season.

Head baseball coach Chris Newman will enter his ninth year with the program and will mark his sixth year as the leading guy for the Royals.

Last fall, the Royals went 21-5, and during the springtime, they finished 14-15 and made it to the second round of the Class 3 District 1 tournament before falling to Portageville.

A great outlook for the Royals' fall season is returning six of the nine starters in all but one pitcher. Stepping into the season, Newman has some good expectations and believes this team will be highly competitive.

Key returners for the Royals will be Drew Solomon, who received All-Conference and All-District for the 22-23 season, Jake Hester, a 21-22 All-Conference and 22-23 All-District player and Luke Hester, who finished All-District last season.

Newman said one of the strengths of the team and their best path to success will take place from the pitcher's mound and what the team can do from the outfield.

“Pitching depth and defense are our biggest strengths for this season,” Newman said. “We can hit a little, but to be successful, our pitching and defense have to be consistent each game.”

As for any weaknesses, Newman will rely on his returners to pick up the slack and provide leadership.

The Royals are scheduled to open their fall season on the road against Alton High at 7 p.m. and will host their home opener against Holcomb on Monday at 4:30 p.m.