Season Preview: Granite State Cardinals
 

Poised to Break Through

Entering their fifth season in the GSBL, the Granite State Cardinals are determined to shed their reputation as first-round playoff regulars. Despite consistent postseason appearances since 2021, the elusive deep playoff run has remained out of reach—a fact the Cardinals are eager to change in 2024.

 

Lineup Core & Offensive Depth
The heart of the Cardinals’ success lies in their veteran core. Table-setters Addison Hanscom and Ben Quick return to spark the offense at the top of the order, while sluggers Nick Lemay, Kevin Veilleux, Siul Mejia, and Frankie McCormick provide a potent blend of power and experience in the middle.

 

Supporting that core are Oliver Victoria, Juan Arias, and Nick Vaughns—players who add consistency, depth, and clutch potential. The return of Alex Strempel from a medical hiatus adds not only depth but also leadership and energy. Key late-season acquisitions from 2023—Jose Diaz, Nelson Sanabria, and Kenny Tejada—are now fully integrated and ready to contribute for a full campaign.

 

The Cardinals also made a point to inject fresh legs and new energy into the lineup by bringing in Fall League standout Connor Cook and promising newcomer Christophe Arias.

 

Pitching: The X-Factor
Pitching will be central to the Cardinals’ aspirations in 2024. Leading the staff is 2023 breakout star Nick Lemay, who captured both Pitcher of the Year and Rookie of the Year honors in a dominant debut season.

 

Strempel’s return adds valuable depth to the rotation, though questions linger around veteran arm Rabel Vargas's status for 2024. Still, the Cardinals made significant moves to bolster the staff, welcoming a new wave of arms: Mike Stocker, Phil Gangi, and Jon Dehoaz. This infusion of talent not only fills immediate needs but sets up the franchise with a sustainable pitching core moving forward.

 

Transitions & Leadership
The team bids farewell to longtime contributor Kenny Crowningshield, who retires after a solid run, and says goodbye to “Big Rob” Vargas, who was traded to the Merrimack Valley Redbirds in the offseason.

 

At the helm, Aaron “Wolfcock” Wovkanech remains as manager—though officially retired as a player (again). His leadership, passion, and knack for making a cameo appearance in a pinch remain vital assets.

 

Outlook: All Eyes on the Next Step
With a healthy balance of veteran savvy, exciting new talent, and arguably the deepest pitching staff in team history, the 2024 Cardinals are built not just to compete—but to finally break through. A deep playoff run is no longer just the hope—it’s the expectation

 

Team Spotlight: Granate State Cardinals
Managed by Aaron “Wolfcock” Wovkanech

 

After a sluggish start to the 2022 campaign, the Granite State Cardinals clawed their way into the playoffs for the third straight season. Entering as the lowest seed, they nearly pulled off a massive upset, taking the eventual champion Mancester Phillies to the brink in a hard-fought playoff series.

 

Heading into 2023, the Cardinals are reloaded and ready, bringing back a talented core and adding key reinforcements. The lineup is deep and dangerous—blending speed, power, and experience from top to bottom.

 

Behind the Plate & In the Field
The Cardinals boast strong depth behind the dish with power-hitting Siul Mejia, veteran leader Frankie McCormick, and rising sophomore Nelly Diaz.

 

At first base, All-Star Kevin Veilluex returns as a steady anchor. Across the diamond, All-Star and defensive wizard Juan Arias mans third, supported by veterans Oliver Victoria, Kenny Crowningshield, and Diaz, creating a dependable and versatile infield.

 

Outfield & Utility
In the outfield, All-Stars Addison Hanscom and Ben Quick return to their posts, though the potential loss of steady centerfielder Derek Chouinard may loom large. If needed, All-Star Alex Strempel and the Victoria brothers offer capable coverage to fill the void.

 

Double Duty & Leadership
Veterans Brian Remillard and Aaron Wovkanech will again pull double duty, suiting up for both the 25+ and 38+ Cardinals squads. Wovkanech enters his 12th season in the GSBL, continuing to bring leadership and grit.

 

On the Mound
All-Star workhorse Rabel Vargas leads a pitching staff that also features Joel Victoria, Mitch Philibert, and the versatile Strempel. The staff gains a boost with the addition of veteran hurler Rob Musto.

 

New Faces, New Energy
After injuries and a divisional merger tested the team’s depth in 2022, the Cardinals spent the off-season reloading. Jose Isaac Negron, Nick Vaughns, and D.J. Sennett have been added to the offensive mix, with more potential returners and invitees still in the wings.

 

Looking Ahead
The Cardinals are eager to bounce back from what they considered a disappointing 2022. With a retooled roster and playoff-tested experience, they aim to return to the Final Four—and beyond.

 

In Memoriam
This season carries extra meaning: the 2023 campaign will be dedicated to the memory of Victor Rosado, a beloved teammate who tragically passed away at the end of last season. His spirit remains a driving force for the team.

 

#ForVictor90