Photo courtesy of Debbi Gigliotti Pictured is the 2024 Eisenhower baseball team.

The Knights baseball team will have new coaches this season as Eisenhower graduate Allan Jackson takes over as the head coach and Marc Manross will serve as the assistant coach.

Jackson comes into the season with a positive attitude and expectations put on his players.

“From what I’ve seen so far, you can expect a group of underdogs to go out and prove themselves every game,” Jackson stated.

The Knights come into the season with an experienced lineup and a large number of pitchers, the question will be if they can make the move to the mound successfully.

The Knights lost their top arm from a year ago when pitcher/shortstop Kael Hunt graduated, but they do have experienced players returning and some underclassmen who are pushing to get in the lineup.

The top returning players from last year’s squad bring valuable experience to the lineup which will give the younger players time to adjust to playing on the varsity level. Seniors Cameron Jakubczak, shortstop/third base/pitcher; Derek Childs, third base/pitcher; and Cole Kellogg, first base; junior Griifin Williams, right field/catcher/pitcher; and sophomore Caleb Jakubczak, shortstop/pitcher.

The returning players will be in the lineup somewhere but the Knights’ success will come down to which underclassman steps up and earns a starting spot.

“All of the younger players are improving daily and will provide depth this season,” Jackson added.

One player that has caught Jackson’s eye is freshman Mason Degnan.

“I’ve been impressed with him, how he has been hitting and his skill set in the field,” Jackson stated.

One change from last season has Cole Kellogg making the move from the outfield to first base and Jackson feels this will be a strength for the Knights.

“Cole Kellogg has been impressive,” Jackson said. “He has found his spot as our first baseman, he gets better everyday.”

Jackson has set a lofty goal for his team, but he and the players feel an attainable one.

“The players want to reach the playoffs,” Jackson said about the season goals. “I want us to play hard in every game and have no regrets at the end of the season. If that happens, I would consider the season a success.”

The new look Knights may experience some growing pains early in the season, but Jackson likes his team’s attitude.

“I’m excited for the season to start,” Jackson stated “If we can find some consistent bats in our lineup we will surprise some teams this season.”

Eisenhower began its season Monday with a 15-5 loss to Cochranton.