By Chad Clevenger
McPHERSON, Kan. (CCCTigers.com) – As Coach Joey Pavlovich enters his first season at the helm of the Central Tiger baseball program, there’s a palpable sense of optimism building within the team. After five years of head coaching experience at Iowa Lakes Community College, followed by time spent at Bryan College and USAO, Coach Pavlovich brings a wealth of knowledge and fresh energy to a squad eager to make a mark in the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC).
Looking Back and Ahead
Last season, the Central baseball team finished with a 9-39 record, struggling to find consistency in conference play with a 2-21 mark in SAC. Despite missing out on the conference tournament, the team has seen a dramatic overhaul in both personnel and mindset heading into this new season.
Key Departures & Fresh Faces
While the loss of standout players like Justin Taylor (.310 AVG, 10 doubles, 2 HRs) leaves a hole in the lineup, the program is excited about its incoming talent. Key players to watch include freshman Kurt Ippolito, who will be stepping in as the starting third baseman, and highly touted transfer Nick Julian, the team’s No. 1 starter on the mound. Along with Julian, the pitching staff adds Terry Baker and Quinten Fears, both of whom will contribute heavily from the bullpen.
On the offensive side, the addition of Bo Daniel (left field), Mason Bowden (center field), and Iker Muñiz (second base) will give the team much-needed depth. Expect the squad to rely on the leadership of returners like James Perales (right field), Mason Dean (catcher), and Robert White (starting rotation) to set the tone as they establish a new foundation.
Team Leadership & Player Development
A unique aspect of this team is its youthful roster. While the squad is young, a core group of leaders has emerged, including Ippolito, Julian, Nate Diaz (senior), and Mason Dean (senior). These individuals will play key roles both on the field and in the clubhouse as the team strives for consistent growth throughout the year.
Season Outlook
Coach Pavlovich is cautious yet optimistic about what the season holds. “It’s been a long fall, and we’re still in the process of building something special here at Central. We’re a work in progress, but we have a talented core that makes this team exciting,” he said.
The team’s goals are focused on daily improvement. “We just want to put our heads down and get better every day. We’re not worried about win totals. We’re focused on building a foundation that gives us a chance to be competitive every time we take the field,” Coach Pavlovich emphasized.
The team’s speed on the basepaths is a key point of emphasis for the season. “We have a real chance to break the stolen base record here this season,” the coach noted. Additionally, the pitching staff, anchored by Julian, has the potential to make their mark.
Looking Ahead
While it’s clear that this season will be a rebuilding one, there’s also an undeniable sense of excitement and potential in the air. The combination of strong leadership, incoming talent, and a focus on improvement every day gives Tiger baseball fans plenty to look forward to in 2025. Though there will be growing pains, the program is moving in the right direction, and it will be exciting to watch these young players develop into the future stars of the Sooner Athletic Conference.
Key Players to Watch:
• Kurt Ippolito (Freshman, 3B) – A freshman with big potential, set to anchor the infield.
• Nick Julian (Sophomore, P) – The ace of the staff and important team leader.
• Mason Dean (Senior, C) – A steady presence behind the plate, bringing leadership and experience to a young squad.
• Bo Daniel (Freshman, LF) – A newcomer with speed and potential to make an immediate impact.
• Iker Muñiz (Freshman, 2B) – Set to bring stability to the middle infield and add to the team’s offensive depth.
This is just the beginning for Central Christian baseball, and the road ahead promises to be filled with both challenges and exciting developments.
