Our next featured team is the New Hampshire Cardinals managed by Aaron “Wolfcock” Wovkanech.

 

After a sluggish start to the 2022 campaign, the Cardinals forced their way into the playoffs for the third straight season and, as the final seed, they nearly upset the Phillies, the GSBL’s eventual champion, by forcing their series to go the distance.

 

For the 2023 season, the Cardinals return a talented core and it starts with the lineup that, from top to the bottom, is strong with a mix of power and speed.

 

The Cardinals have depth behind the dish with power-hitting Siul Mejia, veteran leader Frankie McCormick and sophomore Nelly Diaz.

 

All-star Kevin Veilluex anchors first base taking throws from across the diamond from hot-corner magician and all-star Juan Arias, veterans Oliver Victoria, Kenny Crowningshield and Diaz.

 

Addison Hanscom and Ben Quick, another all-star, return to patrol the outfield, but the Cardinals potentially suffered a major blow in losing Derek Chouinard, who provided a steady glove in centerfield. If needed, all-star Alex Strempel and the Victoria brothers will fill that void.

 

Brian Remillard and Aaron Wovkanech, who returns for 12th season in the GSBL, will play double-duty with both Cardinals 25+ and 38+ teams.

 

Taking the hill for the Cards will be all-star innings-eater Rabel Vargas, Joel Victoria, Mitch Philibert and Strempel, among others.

 

After the 2022 division merger and injuries depleted the team’s depth, the Cards spent the off-season replenishing their ranks by adding Jose Isaac Negron, Nick Vaughns and D.J. Sennett to the offense as well as pitcher Rob Musto to the staff.

 

That’s only the start as we have a few guys that played in previous years that may return and few other invites out there.

 

After making back-to-back final four appearance in their first two years, the 2022 season was a bit of a let-down for the Cardinals. However, as they showed in the playoffs last year, they have the talent that can rebound and do some damage in the upcoming season.

 

One final thought: the 2023 season will be played in memory of Victor Rosado, who tragically passed away at end of the season. RIP Victor, 2023 is for you.

 

#ForVictor90