Every March as baseball season makes its approach, Alan Burbach becomes a little impatient - anxious to play his favorite sport. "I get spring fever," said the Warrenton senior, who began playing at age 7. Now suiting up in his final season at the prep level, Burbach will be counted on for veteran guidance. He was recently named as one of the captains on this year's team. It's a role he assumes with pride during his second season as a varsity starter. "I take it as a compliment," asserted Burbach, "to have the responsibility of showing the younger kids how to play the game." He will play two of the most coveted positions on the field. Burbach will be the ace on the mound this season, having tossed a team-high 37 innings in 2009. He recorded a 4.83 ERA through six starts. He struck out 24, while walking 13 batters. "I like to throw a combination of a two-seam and four-seam and mix up and throw in the curve ball and change-up," said Burbach. While the tension of being a pitcher can be overwhelming, Burbach enjoys knowing the team's fate rests on his shoulders. "I love the pressure, and I think I feed off that," said Burbach. "I think the pressure is what makes pitching so fun. You're pretty much in control of the game." He will also be honing his skills at shortstop, when not serving on the mound. "You're the leader of the infield," said Burbach. "I think you get the most action at shortstop, because you're involved on almost every play." Coach Eric Burle says Burbach is well-equipped to play the position. "He has some good length and anticipates really well," said Burle. "He was really solid for us last year, making some really nice plays." Burbach is determined to improve on his hitting production. Last season he batted .288 with 15 hits, including five doubles and a home run. "I'd like to hit for a higher average and drive the ball better," added Burbach. He says he hasn't changed his approach at the plate but got plenty of at-bats since last season, playing on the Post 122 Senior Legion team. Burbach says one of his greatest challenges will be making certain the team maintains its poise - especially at the plate. He says it will be pivotal for the team to build on its winless record from a year ago. "Last year we weren't near enough disciplined and had a lot of conflict," said Burbach. "I think that has changed. We've been working really hard in practice and hopefully that turns into some wins." Now Burbach finds himself in a position to make certain that doesn't happen again this season. It starts with him setting an example for younger teammates. "He's a guy I don't have to worry about in terms of coaching or constructive criticism," said Burle. The Warriors struggled through a rigorous GAC North schedule, but Burbach says that is no excuse for losing. "I think if we were more disciplined last year, we could have won a few games," said Burbach. "But our lack of mental toughness hurt us." He hopes to instill that fortitude in this season's team, helping to put Warrenton back on the map as a competitor. Burbach says that will come in part with the team just relaxing, having fun and establishing cohesiveness. For Burbach, it's something that comes naturally. "The game comes easier for me because I love baseball so much," said Burbach. He played soccer and basketball as a child, but has committed solely to baseball during high school. "I think it has something to do with my personality," said Burbach. "I can remember when I was little, everyday all I wanted to do was play baseball." He says his competitive playing days are numbered now, anticipating he'll attend Mizzou and turn his complete focus toward academics. It will be a lifestyle change for Burbach, who eagerly awaits opening day each season. "I eat, sleep and breathe baseball," he finished.