After a strong start to the 2013 season, the Selma High School Saints are preparing to enter a crucial stretch of the season.

The Saints have started off with a 10-5 record, and after they return from spring break, they’ll have three games each against area opponents Greenville and Demopolis that will determine whether they can push for the postseason.

Steven Washington, head baseball coach of Selma, said the Saints’ hot start is thanks to an increase in confidence.

“Our confidence level has gotten higher. We’re starting to play smarter baseball,” Washington said. “At first we were just playing baseball. Now, we’re starting to think baseball.”

Washington said the Saints can also credit their record to their speed, hitting, defense and pitching, as well some strong play from Pre-Season Prep Gear/PRO-DAY Baseball All-American Davian Brantley, Eddie Thigpen, Alex Inge, KD Jones, Cameron Walker and Keyshawn Ford.

“It’s been a plus for us because some of the experience they’ve been getting at these camps and showcases has really helped with their game,” Washington said. “It’s really building up their leadership and they’re bringing it on the field, and the other guys are starting to piggyback off of that and feeding off that. The guys that have been named prospects and our All-American have been a big boost to our program with the younger guys because it’s pretty much helping to keep the team together.”

As the Saints prepare to enter the most crucial part of their schedule, Washington said they’re going to have to stay focused.

“We’ve pretty much been telling them to keep their heads and minds on baseball just to kind of help them understand that they’re a good team, that they’re a team to be reckoned with. They have to stay humble,” Washington said. “They’re a different team from last year as far as the workouts we’ve been going through and some of the experience they didn’t have at these camps. We’re a stronger team and our confidence has skyrocketed.”