BBCC Baseball set to kick off 2025 season
MOSES LAKE — With baseball season right around the corner, Big Bend Community College is gearing up to begin its 2025 campaign under the leadership of Head Coach Chase Tunstall, who enters his fourth season at the helm. Coach Tunstall shared his thoughts on the upcoming season and the expectations for his squad.
"We are eager to launch our 2025 campaign, bringing back a wealth of experience that will be crucial in steering our team towards success this year," he said. "A primary focus for us has been to fully commit to our roles and execute them at an exemplary level, a responsibility that is emphasized from leadership down to every team member. Acknowledging that last year's performance fell short of our expectations, our players have demonstrated remarkable intensity and dedication during their first six months on campus. We are fortunate to retain three of our four starting pitchers from the 2024 season, and we have confidence in the new additions to our pitching staff. Additionally, we welcome back several all-conference players and we are enthusiastic about the contributions that both returning and new players will make to our lineup this year. Collectively, we are a team of high-caliber individuals committed to making a significant impact on our program, school and community."
The Vikings boast a diverse roster comprised of players from three different countries, 10 states, and 35 high schools. A strong freshman class joins a group of key returners, including three All-Conference players: Ryley Doig, Oak Held, and Brendan McKinley.
Doig was a staple in the BBCC offense as a freshman, playing in all 46 games and anchoring the lineup locking down the three hole for a majority of the season. He posted a .293 batting average, tallying seven doubles, five triples, and four home runs. Held provided additional firepower, forming a formidable 1-2 punch with Doig. As the Vikings' cleanup hitter, Held hit .326 with ten doubles, two triples, and two home runs.
With the heart of the Viking order returning and three of four starting pitchers back, BBCC is poised for a strong season. The pitching staff appears to be in good hands with McKinley, Dylan Schaefer, and Garin Gurtler returning to the mound. The trio combined for 168 innings pitched and a 3.74 ERA as freshmen, providing the team with a reliable core of arms.
BBCC will open its season Feb. 15 with a four-game series against Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Ore. With experience, talent, and depth on their side, the Vikings are looking to make a significant impact in 2025.