Players are already putting in the effort and the returning head coach is ready to see what Cyclones baseball can do in 2023.

Head Coach Mike Kane returned to lead the Cyclones after a brief stint from 2014 to 2016, and he already likes what he sees.

"This is a great group. They're hardworking, and I think we'll surprise some people," he explained. "The leadership is great. It's like we have four to five coaches on the field. These sophomores are showing the standard, and they understand this level of baseball."

Kane returned in January to a team constructed and recruited by previous coach Hugh Dennehy, and he wants to build on what they have, which includes a solid returning core.

The sophomores leading the team in preseason include Gilberto Hernandez (Maine West), who threw a 4.50 ERA with nine strikeouts but also hit .240 with 22 RBIs last season; pitchers Daniel Rosado (Reavis) and Gus Velazquez (Eisenhower); big-hitting first baseman Danzel Lucas (Morgan Park), who averaged .333 last year at the plate; infielder William Miller (Evergreen Park); infielder Maxwell Hensler (Oak Forest); and transfer catcher/pitcher Ben Cash (Oak Lawn). Kane noted that Rosado and Velazquez will likely be the top pitchers.

A lot of incoming freshmen mean adjusting to a higher level of ball, which the sophomores are already helping with. Everyone is eager to learn and compete.

"They want to work. They want to get better. As a coach, what more can you ask for? They're hardworking, and I think we'll do well," Kane said.

What Coach Kane really wants is for his guys to keep improving all season and not make the same mistake in game 30 that they made in the 10th game. The coaches also want to zone in on the players' weaknesses as well as have them get in 200 to 500 swings a day. Although the team has goals, they are looking at how to be the best they can by season's end.

"I always want to win conference, but I really want the guys to improve and hit their peak by playoffs. That's when our best should go against their best," Kane explained. "I really think we could do well. We're going to make our mark."

Kane will be joined this season by returning Assistant Coach TJ Walton and newcomer pitching Coach Nick Chigas.

"I'm excited. I think we're going to be pretty good. I don't want to overstate it, but we have a good group. They're really looking forward to the season," Kane said.

The Cyclones officially open the season on March 7, 2:30 p.m., at Joliet Junior College (weather permitting). Their home opener is March 8, 2:30 p.m., against Olive-Harvey College.