Anthony Bernard is a senior at Bay City Central. Bernard is a four year varsity athlete, he has been playing baseball for the last 13 years. Previously, Bernard has played at South West Little League, Bay County Pony League, and numerous travel teams since the age of nine. Bernard has played a variety of different positions over the past 13 years. Randy Bernard, (Bernard’s dad) has taught him just about everything he knows.

     Bernard’s favorite and current positions are pitcher and third base. Bernard’s velocity is consistently in the mid 80’s. This offseason, Bernard feels as though his hitting has improved immensely. He is excited to compete for a district championship with his teammates this season.

     During the interview, Bernard mentioned his favorite baseball memory while playing for Central. It was during sophomore year baseball, when Central beat Western High School in pre-districts on a walk off. Bernard said, “I’m excited and sad for the  final season of high school baseball with all of the boys.” As the baseball team is eager for the 2019 season to start, to prepare for the upcoming season the team has been conditioning and training since December.

     Long term, Bernard is still undecided on his career plans, however, he is keeping his options open as he hopes to play college baseball wherever life takes him. Nick Birdsall one of Bernard’s teammates and close friend said, “Through these four years we’ve both put in a lot of hard work and I’m excited to see it all pay off this season.“

Pictured: Anthony Bernard

Picture Credit: Rylee Galloner

     The BCC Varsity Baseball Team is coming back strong from last seasons (21-13-1) record by reloading with 10 returning players keeping their core intact. This team is looking to be in contention for a conference championship and a run at the district title.

     Their returning core is  future college baseball players Hayden Jatczak, Ethan Dufresne, and Nick Birdsall while adding a D1 prospect Dustyn Lucas (Rhodes). Some other key pieces in the team this year will be lead off hitter and shortstop Garrett Glysz, first baseman Mason Schumacher, and a starting pitcher Anthony Bernard. Bay City Central is looking to be solid, they’re being lead by its power hitting lineup and deep pitching staff this year. This year's team is filled with many upperclassmen so they should be poised for a conference and playoff run. “We’ve been working really hard on their strength and conditioning this offseason,” right fielder Ethan Dufresne added, “We are looking to make a statement this year.”

     BCC baseball is looking to make big things happen this year by trying to win their first outright SVL conference championship since 2003 and their first district title since 2004.

Pictured: Jacob Morse

Picture Credit: Katie Boomer