The McAlester Buffaloes are heading into the 2024 baseball season with a young and determined squad ready to rise to the occasion. After losing seven seniors last year, the team faces the challenge of rebuilding its lineup and replacing 90% of the innings pitched in 2023. Despite the transition, head coach Justin Mullins remains confident.
“We’re a young team, but I’m confident that we can be very competitive this year,” said Mullins.
Returning for his third year as a starter, senior Gunner Hodgell is the do-it-all leader for the Buffaloes. “Gunner can play anywhere on the field—and has,” said Mullins. “He will be one of our go-to guys and leaders this year.” His versatility and experience make him a crucial piece of the team’s success this season.
Sophomore Jordan Clark, who started in the outfield as a freshman, is an athletic phenom with speed and defensive prowess. “He can track them down in the outfield, and when he gets on first, he’ll be standing on third before you can blink an eye,” praised Mullins. Look for Clark to make an impact both at the plate and in the field.
Senior second baseman Spencer Stinchcomb has been a steady presence in the Buffaloes’ lineup since his sophomore year. “He gets the job done day in and day out,” said Mullins. As the team’s best returning hitter, Stinchcomb will play a key role in providing consistency and reliability.
Senior Jackson Morgan exemplifies leadership and integrity on and off the field. “Jackson has been with us for four years. He’s an extremely high-character guy who does a great job leading our young guys,” said Mullins. Morgan’s mentorship will be vital as the team navigates a season of growth and development.
With a challenging schedule ahead, the Buffaloes will rely on their young core to step up and fill the gaps left by last year’s graduating class. The combination of experienced leaders like Hodgell and Morgan, along with promising underclassmen like Clark and Stinchcomb, gives McAlester the tools needed to compete at a high level.
The Buffaloes will open their 2024 campaign with a mix of tough non-conference matchups and key league games, giving the team plenty of opportunities to test their mettle and grow as a unit. As Mullins expressed, “We’re ready to see how this group comes together and makes the most of this season.”
