Northampton’s Logan Higgins wanted to put his sophomore season behind him.

“Last year was my least confident year,” said the junior outfielder and pitcher. “I struggled at the plate last year and was hitting around .260. I was better my freshman year.

“I had some confidence throwing the ball, but I thought the coaching staff wasn’t totally sure.”

This season, his outlook and production changed. In a win over North Pocono, Higgins collected three hits with an RBI and had two stolen bases from the leadoff spot. He also pitched four scoreless innings, scattering three hits and striking out six.

Higgins at times this season was among the team leaders in several offensive categories as the squad made it to the EPC and District 11 playoffs, falling to eventual champion Liberty in both tournaments.

Working to improve his game in the offseason has produced dividends. Higgins worked with a Florida-based baseball operation that allowed him to work at home, and he also spent time with a travel team in Texas during his Christmas break.

“I feel really comfortable and confident this year,” stressed Higgins. “I changed my approach at the plate. I was able to long toss and gained about three- to-four miles per hour on my fastball.

“There were some college teams in Texas, and it was a great, learning experience. I was able to improve my entire game.”

Higgins started playing baseball at the age of three. He began to believe in his game at the age of 12.

“That’s when I was really confident and comfortable,” he confirmed. “I struggled at an early age.

“From there, it was a matter of finding out what I could do best.”

Higgins has benefited from the guidance of head coach Mick Sugra, who has been his biggest inspiration.

“Coach Sugra always has been fair,” said Higgins. “At first, he was a little short with me. But he has held me to a high standard. He talks to all of us not just about baseball, but also about life and how to be good young men.

“I know I have become a better player and person because of him.”

Sugra sees the team co-captain (with Evan Hughes) as a catalyst.

“It seems like we go how Logan goes,” said Sugra. “He has some good leadership qualities, and there’s still a lot more to come as well. At the top of our order, he is our trend setter. He has had so many big hits through eight games.

“On the mound, he has the ability to come into any situation and get outs. He is a bulldog- on the mound.”

Higgins would like to continue his career in college, and has been in contact with 15 schools through a recruiting service. When he isn’t playing baseball, Higgins likes to hunt and fish. He also was an avid bowler from the age of five to 15, and plans to join his father’s team next year.