Of the 18 players on this year’s squad, nine are in that senior class.

Stewart, who is in his second stint as the Bulldogs’ coach, looks for his team to make another substantial step in 2015.

“We were pretty competitive and I think that’s going to carry over,” Stewart said. “With our pitching and experience … hopefully we have a chance to qualify for state.”

Senior Jace Carlton leads the Bulldogs this year. He’s the top returning offensive senior, as Carlton led MHS in batting average, runs batted in and home runs. Carlton is the team’s cleanup hitter and plays in the infield, primarily at third base.

“He’s been hitting the ball really well in practice,” Stewart said.

Senior Wyatt Hermann also plays infield and pitches for MHS. Stewart said Hermann probably is the team’s No. 2 returning offensive weapon and also hits the ball well.

“Those two guys I look to produce,” Stewart said.

Some other top seniors returning are outfielders Sam Rainey and Kevin Gann, as well as shortstop Hunter Steffey.

“All three are solid seniors who have high on-base percentages,” Stewart said. “They have speed and are good contact hitters.”

Fellow senior Jack Courtney is another key piece for this year’s squad. Courtney is third or fourth in batting average on the team and is expected to have a productive year.

“He’s actually one of those guys I think will drive in a bunch of runs,” Stewart said. “If he can get his timing down and gain a little confidence, I think he will have a big year for us.”

Another senior, Wyatt Troupe, catches and plays first base.

Nic Bair is in his first year on the team and is expected to add to McLouth’s speed on the basepaths.

Zach Colemen, meanwhile, is in his second year.

“We’re glad he’s out,” Stewart said about Coleman. “It’s good for him and good for us. He works hard.”

MHS has no juniors on the squad, but several sophomores who played last year.

Catcher Brady Troupe caught all 21 games as a freshman last year.

“He’s really solid defensively,” Stewart said. “I’m excited about him.”

Fellow sophomore Tanner Zink is at second base, while Dante Nelson plays at first. Nelson also is one of the team’s top pitchers.

Hermann, Nelson, Carlton and Travis Bartlett are the team’s four main pitchers.

In McLouth’s 8-11 campaign last year, the Bulldogs lost three times to Class 2-1A power Valley Falls and twice to Wellsville, which went on to win the 3A title last year. This year, This year, MHS plays a Troy team that placed fourth in 2-1A last year (20-5) and could be a regional foe this year.

MHS team members played in an American Legion league in the summer in Leavenworth, something Stewart said should pay dividends this spring.

“I think we’re going to have a good time,” Stewart said.

McLouth opened the season Tuesday against Falls City, Neb., the first of four home doubleheaders. Wellsville visits Thursday, Heritage Christian on April 2 and Immaculata on April 9. Tuesday’s games took place after The Mirror’s print deadline, but results can be found at tonganoxiemirror.com.