NORTH ROCK CREEK BASEBALL
Coach: KEATON HERNANDEZ
OUTLOOK
North Rock Creek High School’s varsity baseball team will lean on experience, pitching depth and speed on the bases as it looks to build on last season’s state tournament run. Returning eight of nine starters, the Cougars expect the continuity in the lineup and on the mound to pay off in another deep postseason push.
“Going into this season, we hope to build from the momentum of making the State Tournament last year,” head coach Keaton Hernandez said. “Returning eight out of nine starters helps us practice with a purpose and an understanding of what it takes to be successful.” Hernandez said the Cougars are “very excited for the challenges that this season has got to offer” and eager to get underway.
Senior left-hander Jace Plumb headlines the roster as a dominant two-way player and four-year starter both on the mound and at the plate. In 2025, Plumb went 7-0 with a 0.991 ERA while hitting .400, giving North Rock Creek a proven ace and middle-of-the-order threat. “He has a very bright future in baseball and will be continuing his career at Barton College next year,” Hernandez said.
On the mound, the Cougars also expect production from sophomore Tyler Bergsten, whom Hernandez described as a great, hardworking student-athlete with a big frame and maturity beyond his years. The staff believes Bergsten can provide important innings and complement Plumb’s presence at the top of the rotation.
Junior shortstop Hunter Bertram will anchor the infield after a breakout season in which he hit .409, struck out only six times and stole 18 bases. A three-year starter, Bertram brings reliable defense up the middle and a knack for delivering in crucial moments. Hernandez called him a leader who “never fails to come up big for our team in key situations.”
In the outfield, junior Maverick Wingo adds another layer of power and speed to the lineup. Described by Hernandez as a “freak athlete” with great speed and “a lot of pop,” Wingo hit .343 last season with eight doubles, nine triples and three home runs. “We are very excited to see Maverick produce for our team on the field this season,” Hernandez said.
With veteran talent, proven pitching and dynamic athletes throughout the order, North Rock Creek expects to contend again this spring. For Hernandez and his players, the goal is to turn last year’s momentum into another memorable postseason run.
