Send us a text

What happens when the final out is called on your high school baseball career? Four graduating seniors from New Albany's baseball team take us behind the scenes of their remarkable journey to the state semifinals. Jacob Richardson (second base), Brandon Pettinger (DH/first base), Trey Wentz (pitcher), and Tanner Hamilton-Ekinger (pitcher/shortstop) bring us into their world with candid reflections on a season that ended in controversy.

The conversation opens with the elephant in the room—that disputed catch in right field during their state semifinal match against Amherst Steele. "Quinn made like a great play and it was one of the best catches I've ever seen," recalls one player, still processing how that pivotal moment changed their championship aspirations. But rather than dwelling on what could have been, these young men quickly pivot to celebrate what was—a stellar 19-11 season marked by resilience, growth, and unforgettable memories.

Their insights extend far beyond game recaps. The players offer wisdom that only comes from living through the intense pressure of high-level high school sports: "Nobody cares about stats—we're just trying to win every game." They discuss how injuries created opportunities for younger players, their regional championship victory against Big Walnut (where they were considered underdogs), and the strange feeling of baseball ending after playing year-round since childhood. For some, like Tanner who's recovering from Tommy John surgery, the journey continues in college baseball. For others, their competitive playing days have concluded.

What stands out most is their perspective on youth development. Having progressed through New Albany's baseball program from little league to varsity success, they offer advice that parents and young players should hear: "Continue to try your best to have fun, no matter how competitive stuff gets" and "Don't worry about outside noise...worry about yourself and how you improve." Listen now for an authentic glimpse into the lessons learned both on and off the diamond, and how these experiences have prepared four remarkable young men for whatever comes next.

Support the show