POULSBO — North’s football team galloped its way to the state playoffs. Its boys’ basketball team surpassed anyone’s expectations by making it into the top 16 at state.

But the team that could make the best run of all? The Vikings who take to the diamond.

“Out of any sport, we’ve got the best potential in baseball,” said North Kitsap’s Jared Prince, who plays a starring role in all three sports. “And we’re ready to go get it.”

The senior, whose ERA never cleared 1.0 a season ago, tops the lengthy list of talented veteran seniors, 13 in all. That alone gives the team confidence it can repeat as Narrows League Champions, said NK head coach Steve Frease.

“If you trace these guys back to Little League, the seniors have had some very successful runs,” he said. “Barring injuries, we’re gonna compete for the league title. And we’ll compete our tail ends off at districts.”

After that, Frease said, a state title could be within the team’s grasp — but it is much easier said than done.

“Once you get out of districts, it’s four wins away,” he said.

One big question mark for the season is who will back up the talented starting pitcher. Dan Peck, who graduated last year, was the former starter with Prince.

Frease said that there’s a pack of about seven kids who are competing for the second mound spot but each could contribute throughout the season in the role.

“We’re not hurting for pitchers or athletes,” Prince added. “There’s a lot of guys you would throw on the hill.”

Versatility may be the squad’s biggest asset, Frease said — but that also makes time its primary enemy.

“We’ve got a lot of interchangeable parts,” said the coach, who is in his final season before making the transition to football skipper. “In reality, our most difficult task is getting enough innings for everyone.”

“We’ve got a lot of returners and a lot of experience,” added Prince. “Plus a lot of solid young guys.”

But a squad that meshes well in any given situation will help to solidify the team’s line-up, many players agreed.

“Team chemistry helps us out a lot,” said senior Travis Tobin.

A year ago, the team made it to state, losing on a few small fielding mistakes. This year, the team is striving for perfection.

“We can’t make any mental errors,” said North Kitsap senior Andy Sturza. “Physical errors are part of the game, but mental errors just can’t happen.”