The Valley City baseball team kicks off its season in Mitchell, South Dakota, this weekend with two doubleheaders against Dakota Wesleyan. The Vikings transitioned their opening series from Kansas to South Dakota due to favorable weather. Head Coach Alec DeMaria, in his third season, is optimistic after a strong fall season where the team showcased significant improvement. The Vikings will be driven to treat this first series with great intensity and focus. Returning 17 letterwinners, the team aims to build on their previous season's performance, featuring key players like Alexis Velasco and Takao Cookson.

By the Numbers
  • VCSU finished the 2025 season with a record of 20-32.
  • Alexis Velasco led the team with 7 home runs and a .545 slugging percentage.
  • In his sophomore season, Takao Cookson recorded 62 strikeouts, ranking 8th in the conference.
  • Connor Martin led all freshmen in the NSAA for innings pitched and strikeouts last year.
State of Play
  • The Vikings are heading into this season with several returning veterans from a competitive fall.
  • They expect improved performance, aided by a mix of youth and experienced players.
  • Pitching staff returns most players who have led the conference in strikeouts for two years.
What's Next

After their opening series against Dakota Wesleyan, the Vikings will look to build momentum and evaluate the effectiveness of their revamped lineup. Performance during these games will be crucial in shaping their strategy for the season ahead.

Bottom Line

The Vikings are positioned to make significant strides this season, leveraging returning talent and a strong fall. With high expectations and a focus on accountability, they aim to showcase their growth on the field effectively.