SALEM, West Virginia - Even though we are in the peak time of year for winter sports, the spring baseball season is right around the corner. For example, Salem baseball opens their season right here at home against Shippensburg on February 10th. With that in mind, let's take a moment to preview the Tiger's baseball team for this spring. 

Coach J.T. Heenan and his team have been busy at work in the offseason, and that work in the fall and winter should pay big dividends for a team with quite a few key returners. Last season, the Tigers went 16-32, and players such as Luis Angarita, Tyler Shinn, and Alex Harper were all contributors last season that are back again this spring. 

In regards to the offseason preparations, Coach Heenan had this to say, "This has been our most efficient fall thus far. I'm grateful for the experienced veteran players we have who have stepped up in leadership roles. Additionally, the new players to our program have bought into our systems and values which makes my job much easier. In our fall season, we had the opportunity to scrimmage more than ever before. You get the best reps and have an opportunity to compete more when you play. We have spent a lot of time mastering our craft rather than figuring out who we are on the field, which is a testament to our players working hard. If you watched one of our practices you'd see a lot of intentional repetitions and guys enjoying themself working hard with their teammates."

Another new opportunity for Salem baseball is the opportunity for postseason play as part of the USCAA and the New South Athletic Conference for baseball. Fellow NCAA Division II program and regular Salem baseball opponent Virginia State is a member of both organizations as well. 

Coach Heenan also had a few thoughts on the new chances for postseason play, "Joining The New South Atlantic Conference is a step forward for Salem Baseball. Being in a conference gives our players another opportunity to play post season baseball; it's been a long time since there has been postseason baseball at Salem. The NSAC is great for our program, and we believe it's just the beginning for the growth of Salem baseball and Salem University."

As previously mentioned, Salem opens their season at home against Shippensburg on Friday, February 10th for a double header at 2 PM.