The Baxter baseball program put the finishing touches on a remarkable season, closing with a 17‑9 record that represents the school’s longest streak of consecutive wins. The team’s success was driven by a core group of seniors who not only delivered on the diamond but also set a benchmark for future squads.
A Trio of Leaders
At the heart of the lineup were pitcher Colton Moffit, catcher Cael Wishman, and utility player Hayden Burdess. Each athlete carved out a distinct role that amplified the team’s depth, turning a solid roster into a championship-caliber unit.
Moffit anchored the rotation with a stellar 11‑win record, 14 starts and a miniscule .66 earned run average that placed him 18th in Class 1A. Opponents managed just a .136 batting average against him, underscoring his dominance on the mound.
Wishman proved equally formidable at the plate and behind it. As a first‑team all‑district catcher, he posted a .425 batting average and a .546 on‑base percentage, while stealing 40 bases — the third‑most in the class. His power numbers included three home runs and 23 RBIs, complemented by 38 runs scored.
Burdess added versatility to the mix, earning a second‑team all‑district nod at utility. He hit .360, collected a team‑high 32 hits and drove in 14 runs, while also stealing 25 bases. His defensive reliability was evident in a .955 fielding percentage, and he contributed 30 runs throughout the season.
The trio’s impact extended beyond statistics. Moffit was recognized on the academic all‑state first team, reflecting a commitment to excellence both in the classroom and on the field. Together, Moffit, Wishman and Burdess helped shape a Baxter roster that finished atop its district and set a new standard for the program.