The notable firsts are all ahead for first-year Alabama baseball coach Brad Bohannon. He’ll coach his first game next weekend when the Crimson Tide hosts Valparaiso for a three-game series.
He’ll have to fill out his first lineup card, make his debut at Sewell-Thomas Stadium and – at some point – make his first critical in-game decision as a head coach. He’s looking forward to what will hopefully come afterward.
“Getting that first win,” he said. “It’s awesome. As a head coach you have a bigger role and an impact in more parts of the program. It’s pretty fun to be involved in more areas than just player development and recruiting. I’m excited to get started and see what it all looks like.”
Bohannon and the team are about midway through their first preseason practice together. The pitching staff isn’t yet solidified yet behind senior righty Jake Walters. The rest of the rotation may be decided on the field in the first month of the season.
Some new players are in line for notable firsts as well. Even with a veteran lineup, there should be some newcomers that play major roles.
“Joe Breaux is just a really well-rounded, good baseball player,” Bohannon said. “I think he’s going to be a big part of our success. I’ve been really pleased with Sam Praytor. Catcher is a hard position for a freshman to play and he’s done a good job of playing like a sophomore so far.”
