Independence High School Baseball is off to a dominant 6-2 start this season. The Bulldogs have been led by a steady veteran presence on the field, including future Red Ravens Kamen Sprague and Spencer Crain. Another aspect of their success might be the field itself on which IHS is playing.

 

This is the first season Independence is playing at the new Central Park Sports Complex. IHS Athletic Director Marcus Lanning says the development was long in the making.

 

It was a timely outcome, as Lanning explains the situation with the Bulldogs previous baseball field.

 

The new facility uses artificial turf for the entirety of the infield, including the pitching mound and home plate area.

 

There are several benefits to this modern setup, mainly the frequency with which the field can be used. IHS Head Coach Paul Marquez mentions the team has been able to practice more consistently.

 

This means, of course, fewer games have been rained out. Lanning talks about how well the new field holds water.

 

Rain or not, the new playing surface is also much easier to prepare before each game. For Lanning, that has helped free him up for the rest of his duties as athletic director.

 

A new baseball home also means new dimensions. Coach Marquez believes his roster is well-suited for their new digs.

 

The Bulldogs have played well at their new field, winning four of their first five home games. They host two more times this month, both later this week.

 

IHS hosts Frontenac on Thursday and Labbette County on Friday. Both games start at 4:30 p.m.