The 2013 season provided memorable moments for the Warrenton baseball team, which played for its first district championship in a decade. The Warriors finished above the .500 mark, going 11-8 during their most improved season of Eric Burle’s coaching tenure. “I believe it’s been a process getting to this point,” said Burle. “We’ve really moved forward in each of the past four years and made sure we didn’t take a step backwards.” Warrenton took advantage of a conference realignment in the GAC, opening the season on a five-game winning streak, before dropping five in a row. “We played a lot of big schools, and I felt like that prepared us for the postseason,” said Burle. The Warriors surged near the end of the season, winning their first two districts games against Winfield and St. Charles, before falling to Duchesne .“We fell behind in some games and battled back,” said Burle. “In the past I don’t think we could have gotten ourselves out of those holes.” Warrenton was led by five seniors, including Jakob Junker who provided guidance on several levels. He batted .308 with 12 hits, three RBIs and eight runs, despite missing much of the season with an injury. “Junker always did a great job of leading by example and his athleticism really helped us,” said Burle. Junker played both first base and pitched.The Warriors also looked to outfielders Trevor Bradshaw and Kenny Dildine for leadership. Dildine thrived near the top of the lineup, batting .326 with 15 hits. Warrenton’s starting pitchers were both underclassmen, with sophomore Ben Stephens collecting the most time on the mound. He carried a 1.71 ERA through 53 innings, striking out 56 batters and walking 14. Junior Brandon Moeller was also called on frequently, sporting a 3.71 ERA through 39 innings. He whiffed 40 batters and walked 17. Senior Jordan Noble was also a valuable asset for the Warriors behind the plate. “He was a part of the program for four years and served as a brick wall behind the plate,” said Burle. “He was reliable defensively for us.” Second baseman Luke Darity will return as a senior next season, as will Corey Eckenfels, Garrett Capstick and Arik Rader. Warrenton also groomed freshman Dallas Johnson for four potential seasons on the varsity level. He played the infield and batted .304 to finish second on the team with 17 hits.