New rule, new-look schedule.
The Missouri State High School Activites Association instituted a rule beginning this season to allow baseball teams to play additional games on up to five non-school days. For example, Saturdays, such as today when Jefferson City and Helias will face Glendale in a tri-header at Vivion Field.
"It was something we felt like was beneficial to the school and to the teams," Jefferson City coach Brian Ash said.
"You've got five more days or opportunities to play games on your non school days. It just allows freedom to play games. It doesn't interfere with school where kids are having to get out and you can travel.
"You can play out of state or you can go down and play in Springfield or Kansas City and go make those longer treks to play some of the better competition. I like it."
Helias will take full advantage of the rule, adding games on five different days.
"We're going to see a lot of new teams on our schedule because of it, starting with Glendale," Helias coach Chris Wyrick said. "Some of those teams we're adding won't travel for just one game, but they will for a doubleheader."
Other teams new to Helias' schedule because of the rule are Quincy (Ill.) Notre Dame, Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit North, DeSmet, McCluer North and Union.
The Blair Oaks Falcons will take advantage of the rule three times on their schedule.
"I think the bonus games are a good idea," Blair Oaks coach Harv Antle said. "We could have upward of 27 games heading into the district. That way you know exactly what you have and what guys can and can't do, what your strengths and weaknesses are.
"I think it gives you a better opportunity how to take your best shot."