IIIustration photo by Roddy Johnson
The Buccaneers' toughest opponents, according to Cecchini, will be Sulphur, Zachary, defending state champion Catholic (Baton Rouge) and Jesuit.
Local outlook: The Class 5A playoffs didn't go quite as expected last year with No. 21 Catholic (Baton Rouge) battling through the bracket and taking advantage of West Monroe's win over No. 1 seed Barbe in the third round to capture the state championship. Barbe figures to be the favorite again this year, however Catholic, and last year's runnerup Zachary, could also be improved.
Overall outlook: Barbe has a tough preseason that includes four tournaments. Tournament play generally stretches a team's pitching staff to its limits, so a strong showing during tournament play in February and March, and league play in April, could put Barbe in contention for a seventh state championship, and a possible No. 1 national ranking in May.
Coach quote: "Every day is a gift and a blessing to be with and coach this team. We truly love one another and love endures forever."
- Glenn Cecchini
