For the Grand Valley State club baseball team, the 4-7 fall campaign is a thing of the past.

After losing senior leadership – a huge component of the team’s success and cohesiveness a year ago – the fall roster featured many new members and a considerable change in chemistry.

With a young team and new leadership, the Lakers didn’t rack up as many wins as they would have liked, but they’ve come a long way since. Coach Michael Tagliavia said things are starting to click.

“The team chemistry that we have is a big plus because we all mesh so well,” Tagliavia said. “We aren’t just teammates, most of the team lives with each other and we hang out outside of baseball.”

With improved camaraderie and a little bit of practice, the Lakers seem to be getting better. 

And they plan to play with a chip on their shoulders.

“Our practices have been intense, and I see a definite hunger in our guys to not only make it to regional playoffs, but win it and go to the World Series,” Tagliavia said.

Pitcher Marcus Gignac likes the collective mindset as GVSU prepares for its first game, a nine-inning contest against Cornerstone on Saturday at 1 p.m.

“I think, going into this spring, we are looking pretty good,” Gignac said. “We definitely have a renewed focus toward our goal, which is a conference championship and ultimately making it to the World Series. Our guys have been putting in great work this winter, and we are dying to step back on the field.”

Positionally, the Lakers sport a strong infield, the staple of their team.

“Our infield will be a strength because we have three returners along with our new transfer third baseman Brady Schafer who has experience at a high college level,” Gignac said.

On the mound, Gignac is GVSU’s ace. He is joined by Mike Michalski and Ron Fancher in the rotation, while the bullpen features Lucas Rains and Scott Watson.

The series against Eastern Michigan at the end of the season should give the Lakers a chance to clinch the division, which GVSU has won twice in a row. If all goes according to plan, the team will travel to Sheboygen, Wisc. to compete in the regional tournament in May.

Last year, the Lakers lost to Minnesota State Moorhead in the regional championship.

“I believe that we have a special team this year,” Tagliavia said. “We may not have the perfect 20-0 record we have had in years past, but this team has a different work ethic and determination. We are excited for the spring and cannot wait until we get a chance to prove ourselves in the postseason.”