The Sturgeons’ hopes of improving on an 8-12 finish in 2023 took an early hit when ace pitcher Will Jacobson missed the early part of the season with arm problems. That Jim Falls succeeded in matching that mark was a testament to a team effort and the nimble juggling of manager Peter Thaler whose own injury left him somewhat less than nimble.

For one thing, the offense continued to improve as the team batting average soared to a lofty .310 with six .300+ hitters logging significant playing time. Rookie-of-the-Year candidate and CRBL Honorable Mention winner Jace Cota led in average at .429 (18-42 with 14 R, 10 RBI, 10 BB, and a 1.095 OPS while leading the team in triples and stolen bases). Close behind was All-CRBL shortstop Mason Tester (.418, 23-55, 16 R, 18 RBI, and 12 BB). Other leading hitters included Jackson Gugel (.405, 15-37, 10 R, 6 RBI, and 9 BB), AJ Schemenauer (.355, 22-62, 10 R, a team-leading 21 RBI, and 2 HR), Carter Stelter (.313, 10-32), and Bob Maurer (.310, 9-29).

The team’s gloves flashed with more gems than the crown jewels with the above named players supported by five defensive standouts who made their own contributions at the plate. Colton Turner nailed down a gold-glove citation at first base while hitting .277. Bobby Soran proved to be human with the bat (.298 with 15 RBI), as did Tristin Hable (.261, 12 R) as they anchored catcher and center field. Meanwhile, Jake Eslinger (.244, 10 RBI) and Evan Dennis (9 R) admirable manned third base and right field.

On the mound, Jacobson’s midseason comeback led to his leading the team with 45.2 innings while going 3-3 with 16 strikeouts and a 3.07 ERA. Schemenauer picked up much of the slack with a 3-2 mark in 29 IP with 15 K and a 4.83 ERA. In limited roles, Trevor Bowe was 1-0 at 2.33, and Gugel logged a 4.94 ERA. Finally, we can’t forget the contribution of Mike Maurer who, sadly, will be leaving us after graduation and joining the ranks of the employed. Mike’s 6.38 ERA was inflated by two outing he entered in the midst of opponents in mad feeding frenzies. Outside of these two games, his hurling dazzled, and he tossed the team’s lone shutout of the year.

Despite the somewhat disappointing record, the Sturgeons gained the WBA tournament and bested Holmen 8-7 in a thriller in the opener before bowing out the next day.

And no review of the 2024 season would be complete without the mention of our hosting of the All-Star game. The team would like to thank all the fans, volunteer workers, the Town of Anson, and all the teams of the CRBL who helped make it a wonderful success. Not to mention the rain clouds that graciously held off until the game was completed.

With a few comebacks, the lack of the distraction of hosting the All-Star game, and Thaler’s resolution to give up hip bumping, the Sturgeons look forward to a great 2025.

Welcome one and all to Sturgeon Stadium at Grudem Field.

ROSTER: Jace Cota, Jackson Gugel, Mason Tester, AJ Schemenauer, Bobby Soran, Jake Eslinger, Carter Stelter, Colton Turner, Evan Dennis, Noah Duex, Tristin Hable, Ben Westaby, Will Jacobson, Bob Maurer, Jonah Mueller, Karson Bowe, Pete Thaler, James Davis

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Sponsors

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Grudem Field – Jim Falls, WI

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