Steve Nerland from the American Legion Baseball team and the AST crew break down the Cook Inlet Conference baseball format, including how tournament byes work, why the final regular-season games matter so much, and which teams are positioning themselves for a big postseason run. Steve gives a detailed look at the current CIC standings, with Service leading the way, Dimond and Chugiak battling near the top, and strong pitching performances becoming the difference-maker as teams get ready for conference and state tournament play.

The baseball conversation expands statewide with updates on Juneau, Sitka, Soldotna, and Southeast Alaska’s long history of postseason success on the diamond. The group also talks player development, year-round training, and standout athletes like Rylan from Service, who continues to turn heads with high-level talent and big-game potential.

Steve also shares exciting updates on the continued growth of baseball in Alaska, including the impact of field turf at Mulcahy, Kosinski, and Bartlett, future turf-field possibilities, and major fundraising efforts supporting American Legion and youth baseball. From Alaska Airlines raffle tickets to a Beatles vs. Stones Battle of the Bands fundraiser, there are plenty of creative ways the baseball community is working to grow the game.

To wrap things up, the crew welcomes John Lewis from South Anchorage High School for a great conversation on track and field, coaching multi-event teams, and the success of South’s athletic programs. John highlights standout athletes, the value of track for multi-sport development, and the culture that has helped South Anchorage build one of the strongest athletic programs in the state.

Watch the Full Episode on AST YouTube Page: https://youtu.be/7K1AD9Z_ilA

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