Season Preview for 2018 Waynesboro Generals
The Generals are coming off a 2017 season that saw them earn a record of 20-22, good enough for third place in the South division. After a two game sweep of Harrisonburg in the first round of the playoffs the Gens were ousted by eventual VBL Champions, the Charlottesville Tom Sox. With the new operation team of Brent Ward and Kathleen Kellett-Ward, along with new head coach John Jeanes from Chipola College in Florida, the new-look Generals will look to compete for the organization’s 4th VBL Championship in the last 10 years, and 7th in its history.
The Wards feel confident that the Generals will have a terrific season with their new coach. “John has a diverse and successful record in playing, coaching and recruiting baseball,” said the Wards. “We are very excited to see how he inspires our team!”
Coach Jeanes shares that same excitement and eagerness. “I’m extremely excited to accept the position as Manager for the Waynesboro Generals. It is a honor to be a part of a first class organization,” Jeanes stated. “I hope to lead these young men in the right direction not only to make them better baseball players on the field, but better human beings off.”
With an off-season filled with tweaks and changes, the Generals welcome back two returners from last year’s squad.
Tyler Thompson, from Knoxville, Tennessee, and Austin Peay State University, returns to the Generals this summer after a stellar 2017 campaign where he posted a 2.97 ERA in 13 appearances. “I’m super excited to come back to Waynesboro,” said the 6-6 right-hander. “Last year was an awesome experience that came up too short. I’m excited to be back with new teammates and blessed to be staying with the Hendersons once again. I have the best 50/50 stretch in the league, so make sure you come out for the raffle! Go Gens!”
Patrick O’Shea, the Concord, California, native has come back for another year in Waynesboro. Pat hails from St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California, and was a mainstay in the General bullpen, throwing 26 innings in 11 appearances. “I came back this summer because of how much fun I had last year,” said O’Shea. “I had a great experience, and one of the best summers of my life. I can’t wait to get back to Kate Collins field!”
General Manager, Tyler Hoffman, says he’s excited for another summer with Waynesboro. “We feel as if we’ve put together a great new staff and a roster that will represent this community well,” said Hoffman. “We will strive to not only put a premier product on the field, but give everyone affordable, family-friendly entertainment. We can’t thank this community enough for giving these players an opportunity.” The Gens open up Friday night June 1st in Covington. The home opener is Saturday night June 2nd at 7 pm against the reigning VBL champions, Charlottesville Tom Sox.
The Generals invite you, your family, and friends to Kate Collins field for a fun-filled summer!
