The Southern Lyon County baseball team is entering the 2026 season with a veteran roster and a chip on its shoulder. After battling through a flurry of injuries last year, the squad is finally healthy and loaded with experience.
Head Coach Dalton Laird, now in his 6th season leading the program, is joined by Assistant Coach Ryan Gasche. Together, they are overseeing a team that believes it has all the pieces to make a deep run in the Lyon County League and the Class 1A postseason.
2025 Recap: Toughness Under Pressure
Last season was a true test of grit for the program. Despite a “young class” being hit hard by multiple injuries, the team still posted a 14-12 record.
The highlights included a strong 4-2 showing in league play and a push into the Regional Semifinals. In that semifinal, they pushed Central Heights to the limit, eventually falling in a heart-pounding 8-7 extra-inning battle. That experience of playing in high-stakes postseason games has set the stage for a highly anticipated 2026.
The Return of the Starters
In an era where graduation often resets a roster, Southern Lyon County is in a rare position. They return 8 of their 9 starters from last year. With 9 returning lettermen, this is one of the most experienced groups in the area.
Top Returners to Watch:
- Kael Wagaman: An All-League selection at Shortstop who provides elite defense and leadership.
- Brayden Lienemann: A versatile player and pitcher who earned All-League Honorable Mention honors last year.
- Jaiden Kurzen: A physical presence on the field who will be a key bat in the heart of the lineup.
- Eli Markowitz: A returning starter looking to build on a solid 2025 campaign.
New Faces and Deeper Depth
While the veterans lead the way, Coach Laird is excited about the immediate impact of his newcomers. Specifically, the addition of Henry Tajchman is expected to bolster both the pitching staff and the lineup.
“We return 8 out of 9 starters with key newcomers to the pitching staff and lineup,” Coach Laird noted, emphasizing that the team’s depth will be a major advantage this spring.
2026 Outlook: High Expectations
With nearly the entire starting lineup returning and the injury bug hopefully in the rearview mirror, Southern Lyon County is a team to watch in Class 1A. Their mix of veteran leadership and new arms on the mound makes them a legitimate threat in the Lyon County League.
