ELKIN - After a solid 8-8 conference mark a year ago, the Buckin’ Elks return to the diamond today looking to build on that campaign.
Elkin, which advanced to the second round of the 1A state playoffs last season, immediately kicks off conference action today, hosting 1A rival North Wilkes on opening day in a JV/varsity double-header.
The Elks are deep this year, despite losing six seniors off last years’ squad, including starters Hayden Snow, Ben Osborne and Dylan Goodwin.
The team will rely on a vital core of seniors this season, headlined by returning All-MVAC honorable mention Jamey Cranford.
Cranford was the ace of the Elk pitching staff, going 4-5 on the year in 13 appearances with a 3.31 ERA, while recording a team-high 51 punch-outs.
Seth Creed, Ted Shore, Frank Miller, Houston Parks, Logan Newman, Calvin Yarboro, Cory Cockerham and Grayson Niemic round out a deep senior class for Elkin.
Rising sophomore Daniel Brinegar returns after a brief stint at the varsity level to lead the underclassmen with Brandon Bradley.
The Elks open the season with four-straight home games, including a much-anticipated Battle of the Bridge meeting with rival Starmount on March 12.
Reach Matthew Gorry at 835-1513 or mgorry@civitasmedia.com.








