In his first year as head baseball coach at Whitehall, Eric Schmitt continues to discover facts about his team as the Zephyrs wind down toward a possible postseason berth.

However, Schmitt quickly discovered that senior outfielder Bryce Bashore would be a staple at the top of his lineup, and can draw a lofty comparison.

“He has had a tremendous year,” gushed Schmitt. “He has been positive, and a great leader throughout the process.

“He is the classic left-handed, speed-splash table setter at the top of the lineup like (former Atlanta Braves All-Star outfielder) Brett Butler.

Bashore began the week as the Zephyrs’ leader in batting average (.405), on-base percentage (.561), stolen bases (23), and runs (16).

He was well aware of the Zephyr’s likely rebuilding process ahead this season, and decided to take the lead.

“Coming into this season after losing a number of seniors, I knew we were going to be young and needed some guys to step up,” he said. “All I tried to do was to encourage the guys and be a leader in the locker room.”

With their inexperience, Whitehall (7-11) searched to find consistency, and the Zephyrs pieced together a four-game win streak in late April that included a 4-1 victory over Parkland.

Whitehall still had a longshot to make the district playoffs as an eighth seed, but the Zephyrs found themselves in a season-ending tailspin in which they had lost five of six games with two left to play.

Bashore understood that it wouldn’t be easy.

“We definitely went through some ups and downs this season,” he said. “But I’m proud of what these younger guys have done with little varsity experience. You could see them grow and feel more comfortable each game.

“I’ll always remember beating Parkland at their place. It was a big game, and it’s always good to beat those guys.

“We won, and I went 3-for-3 with a walk and three stolen bases.”

Bashore recalled the beginning of his baseball career at Egypt Park at the age of five and his father, Andy, guided him along the way.

“My dad unquestionably has been the biggest influence over me,” he said. “He played at Parkland and coached at some schools, but once I started playing he coached my teams until I got to high school.

“He made baseball fun for me and my friends and gave me memories that I’ll remember forever. Even today, we talk after every game, and he is always willing to help me work on whatever I want.”

Bashore has found his groove most of the season.

“I really think I’m seeing the ball well at the plate right now,” he added. “I know when to be patient and when to be aggressive early in the count, which has helped a lot this year. I’ve been hitting the ball pretty well this year. More importantly, I just try to get on base as much as possible for Gabe Guzy and Jace Duld, our power guys behind me.

“I just have been focusing on making the pitcher work and take what he gives me at the plate.”

Bashore, a two-time team captain and an integral part of the Zephyrs’ 2020 district championship football team as a wide receiver and safety, will head to East Stroudsburg next fall to continue his football career there and pursue a career in health and physical education.

He also will close one of the better careers in the annals of Zephyr baseball.

“He was an all-around great player and kid,” stated Schmitt. He certainly did everything he could for the program.”