Rolla Bulldogs Baseball: Experience, Leadership, and a New Season Ahead
- RoMoAthletics
- Mar 20
- 4 min read
March 20, 2026
Spring is back in the air in Rolla, and that means one thing for Bulldog fans — it’s time for baseball.
On a recent episode of Inside the Huddle, I had the opportunity to sit down with Rolla High School head baseball coach Ken Hohe to talk about last season, the challenges of replacing key players, and what Bulldog fans can expect as the team takes the field this year.
If last season taught us anything, it’s that this program continues to compete with anyone.
Looking Back at 2025
The Bulldogs finished last season 15–14 and made a strong run into district play before falling in the semifinal to Parkway South. It was a tough loss — one that slipped away late — but it also showed just how competitive Rolla baseball continues to be.
Coach Hohe reflected on that moment and the lessons that come with it.
The Bulldogs held a late lead before Parkway South rallied for a 7–5 win. Parkway South would go on to finish third in the state, which says a lot about the level of competition Rolla was facing.
But before that semifinal game, Rolla delivered one of the most memorable performances of the season.
In the district opener, the Bulldogs knocked off defending state runner-up Lafayette in a convincing 10–4 victory. Pitching, timely hitting, and confidence all came together for a win that many of the players still talk about today.
For Coach Hohe, it was a moment that captured what the program is all about.
Rolla may have been viewed as the underdog by outsiders, but inside the dugout the Bulldogs believed they could win — and they proved it.
Replacing Key Graduates
Every high school program faces the annual challenge of replacing talent, and this year is no different.
The Bulldogs graduated some major contributors from last season, including:
Trustin Richards
Braxton Bahr
Austin Long
Richards and Bahr were the heart of the offense, occupying the powerful 3-4 spots in the lineup and producing big hits, extra-base damage, and key RBIs throughout the season. Long was a reliable bullpen arm and part of the pitching depth that helped the Bulldogs stay competitive in tight games.
Replacing that production won’t be easy, but the cupboard is far from bare.
Senior Leadership Returns
One of the biggest strengths of this year’s team is experience.
The Bulldogs return eight seniors, and remarkably six of them have already committed to play college baseball. That kind of leadership and experience can shape the identity of a team.
Leading the way are two players coming off All-State seasons:
Both players are key pieces on the mound and in the lineup. As Coach Hohe pointed out during our conversation, high school baseball often requires your best pitchers to also be among your best hitters — and both players fill that role.
The Bulldogs also feature several other seniors who have committed to continue their careers at the next level, including:
That level of talent and experience provides stability and leadership as the Bulldogs begin a new season.
Depth Will Be Key
Beyond the seniors, Coach Hohe highlighted several juniors who are expected to step into larger roles this year:
Chase Hudson
Zyair McWilliams
Blaine Sbabo
Chase Williams
Each brings versatility and depth to the roster — something that becomes especially important during the long high school baseball season.
The Bulldogs also have flexibility behind the plate with three catchers capable of contributing, and several players who can take the mound in different situations.
Pitching depth is critical in high school baseball due to pitch count rules, and Coach Hohe believes this year’s roster has the arms needed to navigate a demanding schedule.
Early Tests Await
The Bulldogs won’t ease into the season.
After the jamboree in Union was cancelled due to weather, there is no warm-up as Rolla opens the year with two tough matchups on Saturday March 21st in Columbia:
Rock Bridge 10am
Republic 12:30pm
Both are strong programs, and Coach Hohe likes opening the season against that level of competition.
It gives the Bulldogs an immediate test and helps the team see where adjustments need to be made as the season develops.
Last year’s games against those teams were competitive, and Rolla expects more of the same this spring.
After the opening weekend, the Bulldogs head to Owensville before hosting Helias on March 25th for their first home game of the season — a game Bulldog fans should circle on their calendars.
Competing Without a Conference
One unique challenge the Bulldogs face is scheduling.
Without a conference affiliation, Rolla has to build its schedule in a different way, often traveling and playing teams from multiple regions. While that can create logistical challenges, it also exposes the Bulldogs to a wide variety of competitive programs.
Tournaments, St. Louis area opponents, and strong mid-Missouri teams all help shape a schedule designed to prepare Rolla for district play.
And if last year is any indication, the Bulldogs will be ready.
One Game at a Time
When I asked Coach Hohe if there was one game he had circled on the schedule, his answer reflected the mindset of the program.
"The next one."
For this team, the focus is simple: prepare, compete, and get better every time they take the field.
With a veteran group of seniors, talented returning players, and a roster full of competitors, the Bulldogs have all the ingredients for another exciting season.
Now it’s time to play ball.
So if you find yourself with a free afternoon this spring, head out to the ballpark and support the Bulldogs. The season is underway — and Rolla baseball is ready for the challenge.
—----------------
This article was generated using A.I. based upon the transcript from the Inside the Huddle interview with Coach Hohe.
Comments