Twins' roster loaded with talent
<p>Vinnie Smith tags out a runner at first base in a conference game against Libby on Wednesday at Memorial Field.</p>
The Glacier Twins expect to look in top form when they take the diamond for their season-opener this weekend in Missoula.
The American Legion baseball team has been working out three times a week since January. They used the horse arena at Bar W Guest Ranch west of Whitefish as a batting cage and a make-shift bull pen while snow covered Memorial Field.
“The enthusiasm on this team is exciting,” said Twins manager Bob Rupp.
With the club bringing back a solid core or returning veterans, Rupp is optimistic about Glacier’s potential for a run at a state title.
“Pretty much everybody is back,” Rupp said. “We have really good depth and they’re getting stronger every day.”
“It was this exciting two years ago when the kids won state. These kids are right there, too.”
Overall, 34 kids came out for the team, the most in many years, Rupp said.
Depth in the pitching rotation is an obvious strength for the club. AJ Wetsch, Jonny Sapa, Tyler Murphy, Colten Parker, Jesse Walburn and Vinny Smith will share duties on the mound.
“We have a couple of new guys that can really throw, too,” Rupp said.
Big bats return with Parker, Tristin Steinwand and Smith.
Rupp says Glacier’s speed on the bases will boost the offense, as well.
Glacier will host a pair of annual tournaments this summer. A dozen teams will play in the Ed Gallo Wood Bat in June. The Sapa-Johnsrud in July has eight teams slated.
New this summer is a Memorial Day series with the Kalispell Lakers AA with three consecutive games.
“We need to build the rivalry up again,” Rupp said. “It’s been pushed aside in recent years. It’s really good for both of our gates.”
The district tourney this year is in Florence. The top two teams earn a trip to state in Great Falls.
The Twins home opener is Sunday, April 24 against Belgrade at Memorial Field. The double-header begins at noon.