Crusaders make 9-5A their playground

   Mark Wisniewski has fielded a few solid teams during his years as Brother Martin’s head baseball coach, but this year’s edition is carving its name among the Crusader greats of the past.
    They did so last week by defeating the defending District 9-5A champion, Jesuit, twice. And neither outcome was in doubt.
    Ranked No. 4 in the latest LHSAA power ratings, Brother Martin rolled over the Blue Jays, 8-1, on March 18 at Kirsch-Rooney Stadium, then won again, 6-3, on March 20 at John Ryan Stadium.
    The power rankings list the reigning 5A champion Barbe (20-2) at No. 1, Destrehan (18-3) second and Covington (17-2) third.
    Brother Martin (17-5) is just behind. And with Jesuit out of the way, the Crusaders just need to get past Archbishop Rummel (11-10, 2-0 in district), Grace King (12-6, 2-0), Chalmette (11-10, 0-2) and West Jefferson (2-12, 0-2) to sweep the league.
    Their batting order is solid with Jacob Seward leading off and followed by Daniel Lahare, Cody Ducote, Greg Deichmann, Owen Magee, Peyton Senner, Jarett Gongora, Bruce Johnson and Blake Battle.
    If the pitching holds up, Brother Martin could be among the teams at Turchin Stadium to play for the Class 5A championship.