By Hayden Swope

Salina South’s Kaden Budke ended his 2023 season strong with a 11-10 record and was a first team all-league pitcher and third baseman for the Cougars. Budke focused on taking his weaknesses and turning them around for the spring season.

“I knew that to be successful for the upcoming season that this offseason was super important,” Budke said. “My offseason consisted of playing around forty games in the fall, working with the team throughout the winter, and hitting the weightroom hard. My main focus this offseason was getting stronger and to hit for more power while maintaining the high contact rate.”

Knowing the areas where the team may struggle, Budke is ready to step into the leadership position to set the standard for the season.

“Our main focus, just like everyone else, is to make it to Wichita,” Budke said. “My main focus, since we have a younger team, is to set the tone and expectations for future seasons.”

Budke’s top memory includes what felt like a never ending game and a victory with his teammates.

“Possibly my favorite memory would be last year playing Maize,” Budke said. “In our second game, we went into 16 innings and won the game. It was just a crazy game all the way around, which made it enjoyable to play in.”

After high school Budke plans to continue his academic and athletic career in college.

“I am committed to Cloud County Community College to play baseball.” Budke said. “I am majoring in Kinesiology, and then I plan to attend a four year school to further my athletic and academic career. In the end, I plan on becoming a physical therapist.”