A shortened season featuring only weekend games has provided some unique opportunities for this year’s varsity baseball team.

“It’s a challenge, but easier in some ways,” said head coach Paul Oberto of the schedule, which usually includes two seven-inning games each weekend but no contests during the week.

In a typical baseball season, the team would need to plan for one or two midweek games in addition to a Saturday game. This year, two strong starting pitchers are enough to carry the team each week, and each pitcher will get nearly a full week of rest between starts.

Oberto noted that the seven-day commitment has required the team to be mindful about workload during practices so that players are still fresh for their weekend games. “You need some energy left to do that, and you need to rest a little afterwards,” he said.

Although scores and records are not being kept this season, coaches for the five schools (Hotchkiss and Taft, Choate, Loomis, and Westminster) have been using their best players in most situations, said Oberto, leading to a high level of play. “Any one individual inning feels pretty competitive,” he said.

This year’s Bearcats feature a core of talented seniors, as well as a group of younger players that are making steady progress. Oberto gave kudos to the older players for providing guidance and mentoring. “I’m pleased with how these two groups have meshed,” he said.

Overall, the team has enjoyed quality starts from its pitchers and its infield defense has been especially strong, said Oberto. The top of the lineup features players who can hit for both average and power, and have provided most of the offensive production, he said.