The expectations have not dipped at Bixby High School, even after the Spartans lost several key pieces from last year’s varsity baseball team. Head coach Dean Wilson said the program’s standard remains the same as Bixby reloads behind a core of experienced returners. 

“We lost some main pieces from last year through graduation or other means but are looking to a talented returning group to pick up where we left off,” Wilson said. “Will have tools all over the field and are committed to playing with pace and being fundamentally sound as is always our objective. We have enough guys back who have been through it, so we are confident that we won’t deal with any more growing pains than should be expected.”

One of those returners is Graham Knight, a starter from last year’s state tournament run. Knight went 5-for-6 with a double, a triple, a home run and three RBIs on the state’s biggest stage, giving the Spartans a proven bat in the middle of the lineup. Wilson said Knight has elevated his game since then and become a player Bixby can lean on in every phase. 

“Has really rounded out his game and can do anything you need on the field,” Wilson said. “Hard worker, strong student and respected in the locker room. Expected to contribute in the middle of the order, as a middle of the field defender and on the mound.”

Behind the plate, sophomore catcher Brodie Stockard gives Bixby a physical presence with upside. Stockard already shows above-average athleticism for his position and is emerging as one of the team’s young voices. “Stockard runs well and has a great arm behind the plate,” Wilson said. “Another budding leader whose game is starting to come together and show signs of varsity polish.”

Senior infielder Max Stephens anchors the leadership group with his work ethic and consistency on and off the field. Wilson calls Stephens a model for how Spartans baseball should look during practice, in the classroom and in the dugout. “Max Stephens is a true leader by example in our program,” Wilson said. “Does things the right way, works hard, 4.0+ student and respected by teammates and coaches equally.”

With veterans like Knight, Stockard and Stephens setting the tone, Wilson believes Bixby is built to handle the natural growing pains that come with a new season and still chase postseason success.