ANY TEAM WORTH ITS SALT, MUST HAVE AN ACE ON THE MOUND.
For the Lamar Consolidated Mustangs, that is lefty Jonathan Anders, who exploded onto the scene as a junior. And he has some swag. The moustache is his calling card, but he can pitch and hit with some of the best in the city.
“Our primary goal this season is to make the playoffs,” said Anders. “Before we can even think about a district title, making the postseason is the focus. We’re leading with our seniors in the locker room and on the field right now. So, we’re just trying to get the younger guys on the same level, teach ‘em right and stress that mentality to win.”
It all starts with Anders, who hit at a .325 clip, while going 5-2 on the season with a 1.14 ERA. For his performance, he was named to the all-district team and was voted the District-5A Pitcher of the Year.
“My goal this year is to get Pitcher of the Year again, as well as get a college offer,” Anders said. “I have a few but none of them have felt good yet. I hope that changes this season. Waiting to be called can be stressful. Several of my friends are getting offers and committing, and I’m just waiting to get that chance. I’m going to do my best to prove myself this season and it will come.”
Considering this is his final season at Lamar Consolidated, Anders will look to regain his 2022 form and then some. Furthermore, he intends to be one of the Mustangs’ leaders to help shape the future of the program.
“I’m going to try to encourage my teammates, especially the underclassmen, to work hard all throughout the year,” said Anders. “Nothing is given, so I want to stress that mental and physical toughness can push through the adversity we will face.”