Seven Buchholz baseball standouts put pen to paper and are eyeing another shot at a state title

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) – It has been a magical journey for the Buchholz baseball team. Coming off back-to-back state tourney appearances, recognized as one of the best in the nation. But, you have seven seniors right here that are aiming for one more title shot

But business first, as this clutter of Bobcats signs to play at the college level.

All seven of these players are playing for some of the top junior college and D1 baseball programs.

Drew Almond takes his outfield experience to Northwest Florida. Pitcher Reed Thomas to Florida Gulf Coast, count on this pair earning a lot of playing time.

Blake Brewer is signing with Gulf Coast State. Brewer is a multitooled infielder with the clutch gene, topped off with the go-ahead RBI double at Pace in the Class 6A Regional Finals.

First baseman Zac Brown to Lake Sumter with a terrific glove and a strong hitter not to underestimate.

Aidan Kastensmidt signs with Jacksonville University. His unofficial motto was right place, right time. When it came to hitting, running, and scoring. Do not be surprised if he has a career year.

Cohen Lafler, who is ready to take a step forward on the hill after showing his potential as a reliable relief arm. Lafler signs with Embry-Riddle.

And joining Kastensmdt in Jacksonville is Dion Wilburn, ready to show off his talent at the dish and on the pitching mound.

Chris Malphurs is the new head coach, taking the reins from longtime winning coach Ron Brooks. The season begins next Tuesday and on the schedule includes a well-coached Columbia team, North marion and Forest.

But, to Wilburn, though. There are new pieces, but the goal stays the same.

Wilburn said, “I think the obvious answer is to go and win it all this year. I think that is the end goal that every player on our team has had. Everyone wants to finish what we were not able to last year and everyone has put in the work, and hopefully we can get that done.”

Buchholz opens the season at Chiles next Tuesday.

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