BRODHEAD — The graduation of two-time First-Team All-Conference captain Brady Malkow leaves a big hole in the Cardinal roster, but head coach Aaaron Guilbault knows there are many that can step up in his place.

“We will have more depth than we’ve had in the past,” Guilbault said. “It will be a challenge to see how all of the pieces fit together and continue to develop the team-first culture we’ve worked on.”

Aidyn Vondra and Gabe Bockhop return with All-Conference Honorable mention experience. Vondra, a University of Minnesota-Duluth football commit, brings speed. He is closing in on the school stolen base record and could break many career and season milestones this year. Bockhop, meanwhile, caught for ace Malkow.  

Malkow wasn’t the only pitcher lost to graduation, though, as the Cardinals look to replace three arms in their rotation.

“While we lost three pitchers off last year’s team, we will have a solid group of experienced pitchers to take those spots,” Guilbault said. “We will need a front-line starter to step up and fill the big shoes of Brady Malkow.”

Brodhead-Juda’s pitching staff in 2023 will include senior Trent Neeley, junior Kohen Sawle, sophomores Cullen Walker and Clayton Elliot and freshman Sam Searls.

Defensively, Dylan Lewis, Sawle, Elloit and Neeley can play the corner infield spots. Ryan Searls mans third, while Walker will play short when he doesn’t pitch. From left to right in the outfield, Guilbault envisions Evan Senobe, Vondra and Dave Mazloske. Bockhop will be behind the dish.

With all these components, Guilbault believes his team will improve upon its 10-14 record, which included a 3-0 regional upset over Evansville.

“This team will be much improved from last year with more depth and experience,” Guilbault said. “We expect to compete in a very top-heavy Rock Valley Conference.”

Other conference contenders include Beloit Turner, Jefferson and Edgerton, which finished one through three last year. Including McFarland and East Troy, Brodhead-Juda is in for a competitive season.

“The teams’ experience, coaching staffs and traditions always make the Rock Valley one, if not the best, Division 2 conference in Wisconsin.”