Baseball | 4/18/2024 8:20:00 PM

Growing up, Evan and Krew Bouldin's parents, Karen and Casey, had to navigate the minefield of broken vases, shattered glass, and ruined picture frames throughout the house.

It was a small price since they had a pair of rambunctious boys who liked to throw baseballs and kick soccer balls in the house. Evan and Krew knew what was coming whenever their parents discovered another mess. 

"At first, our parents weren't thrilled with all the broken things," Evan Bouldin said. "They'd come to talk to us and let us know we can't do that. Of course, I am innocent in everything because Krew told me to do it."

Blame the big brother. Classic. 

It took a few years, but Evan and Krew finally found a way to make amends: By playing together as members of the Delaware State University baseball team. This allowed their parents to attend every Hornet game, a luxury they didn't have as Evan and Krew played baseball on various teams because of their three-year age difference. 

One parent went with Evan, and the other went with Krew.

Now, they get to cheer on their dynamic duo each week. They have much to be proud of because Evan and Krew are critical Delaware State baseball program members. Krew cherishes his opportunity to play with his younger brother as they create lasting memories. 

Instead of causing damage around the house, they unleash their prodigious power on opposing pitchers. They each blasted a home run in the first inning of a thrilling 22-21 victory against Merrimack on April 12. 

"It's the coolest thing I've ever been a part of on a baseball field," Krew said of playing with his brother. "Growing up and watching him follow my footsteps and come to the same school to play with me at the college level is amazing."

Krew is meticulous and patient. 

The Delaware State senior arranges his baseball equipment in an orderly and has a specific place for his clothes and personal belongings at home. He knows where everything is and how it is arranged. So, when something is moved or changed, he knows who the culprit usually is, which disrupts his neatness. 

"He thinks he's being funny," Krew said of his younger brother Evan, who is the opposite of Krew on and off the field. "He does it, and I will catch him. He knows it gets under my skin just enough. But I've never been prouder of him watching him succeed."

Krew was the first player to greet Evan as he crossed home plate following his 100th career hit, which happened to be a home run, in a recent Delaware State victory. Delaware State is making some moves in the Northeast Conference, having won five consecutive contests and eight of their last nine games heading into a critical weekend showdown at Sacred Heart. 

Krew and Evan are the soul, spirit, and spark of the Hornets' program, which is looking to send veteran head coach J.P. Blandin into retirement with a playoff appearance. 

"It was cool to celebrate my 100th career hit with him and my teammates," said Evan, who celebrated his 20th birthday earlier this month. "Playing with Krew is great because no one knows me better. He's constantly helping me in all aspects, mentally and physically. He can tell when something isn't going well, and he's like another coach to me. The feedback is more personable coming from him, and I relate to him with what he's explaining to me."

The talks have paid off because Evan leads the Hornets with 44 hits, fourth in the NEC. He's also fifth in runs scored and sixth in batting average. Evan also has all four saves for Delaware State this season. Krew is ninth in the NEC in walks and is Delaware State's all-time program leader in that category. 

Delaware State's potent offense is also fueled by Jaryn Sample's NEC-leading .400 batting average, and Chris Amparo, who leads the conference in slugging percentage, is second in RBIs and third in home runs. 

"He is good, and I am nowhere as good as he is," Krew said of Evan. "I get to see how hard he works and how much effort he puts into becoming a better player. I see him wake up, and nobody sees the extra work. I've never been prouder. I am glad he's my brother."

While their on-field achievements are impressive, it's their off-field work that truly sets them apart. Evan and Krew are not just exceptional athletes but also exceptional human beings. They use their platform to make a difference in the lives of others, serving as beacons of hope and inspiration for those around them. 

Meanwhile, Krew overcame the adversity of having Tommy John surgery before throwing a pitch for the Hornets, but the coaches remained faithful and patient. Krew was diligent and dedicated during rehab, which included waking up and watching 5 a.m. team workouts, attending mid-afternoon practice sessions, and attending physical therapy in the evenings. 

With undergraduate degrees in accounting and finance/economics already earned, Krew will earn his MBA in June. 

"They push each other," Blandin said. "Big brother gets on, little brother. Listening to them is fun, and the guys feed off their energy. They want to practice the right way so they can compete the right way. It's great to have local kids contribute; they've been a big part of our program. They are high-character individuals and great baseball players."

Baseball is in Krew and Evan's blood. They are diehard Philadelphia Phillies fans. Krew remembers sitting on his grandfather's lap watching the Phillies as a youngster, and he also has fond memories of the Phillies 2008 World Series championship team. 

So, quite naturally, throwing, kicking, and catching in the house would become part of their childhood. It developed a special bond between the brothers. They did play on the same little league team, but because of their age difference, it was the last time they played together until Evan decided to continue his career at Delaware State. It's why every moment matters for the pair. Adding a sense of urgency to this season is Blandin's impending retirement. He's been an institution at Delaware State, which motivates the Hornets to finish strong.

"He has done so much for the program, Delaware State, and the community," Evan said. "Our entire team is connected. Knowing we are playing for a bigger purpose and doing it for coach is all the better. Delaware State opened many doors for me on and off the baseball field. I've been able to volunteer at all types of events. Wearing Hornets across my chest means a lot to me."

Evan and Krew may be gifted at the rudiments of the game, but their character, selflessness, pleasant attitude, and ability to bring smiles to others make them special.