This week's featured team is the Lakes Region Muskrats.

The Muskrats are back in action for the 2023 season with a strong offensive lineup, led by Manager Jake Kleckner. The team is looking to build on their successes from last year and go even further this time around.

The Muskrats are welcoming back several players, including Mike Anastaisa, Alex Hamlin, Griffin LaFluer, Mike Giovanditto, and Seth Shackford. This experienced squad will be hoping to make an impact in the upcoming season.

Offensively, the Muskrats will be led by Mike Moran who hit .341 with 13 runs. Following Moran will be a mix of Kleckner (.600 average with 13 RBI’s and 13 Runs) and Chris Moultroup, who hit .400 with 10 RBI's and 9 runs. As well as Jeff Schafer and Dustin Butler who also contributed with a .304 and .238 batting averages respectively.

On the defensive side, the Muskrats will have Matt Finch anchoring first base and newcomer Scott Marks also expected to provide solid defense at the position. At third base, Marks or Evan Vulgamore will guard the hot corner, while Mike Moran will hold down 2nd base. The shortstop position will be a combination of Kleckner, Dave Nieves, and Justin Lemanski. In the outfield, the team will rely on the likes of Seth Shackford, Griffin Lafluer, and Brandon Snarey, with several utility players such as Dave Drouin, Mike Anastasia, Owen Bernier, Beck Stecher, and Steve Levasseur ready to contribute as needed. Chris Moultroup will be the starting catcher, known for his exceptional defense behind the plate. With several players able to play multiple positions, including Mike Gioventto, Cal Chevarie, and Brian Doyle, the Muskrats are well-prepared for any scenario.

The team's pitching will be anchored by Kleckner followed by newcomers Jovan Henriquez, Drouin and Vulgamore, along with Doyle and returner Seth Shackford.

Although the Muskrats will be missing Josh Guilmette (who was traded to the Mudducks for a basket of chicken tenders and a Pepsi), Torrey Martinez (furthering his education in FL) and Zach Poisson (signed with a team down in Boston), they will look to all the newcomers to step up and make their mark.