After a slow start to the season, the Mason City Newman baseball team has found its stride. The Knights have surged to a 20-8 record after dropping five of their first seven games. Newman coach Tony Adams says the schedule played a big part. Adams says they played a top-ranked 3-A team, and 4-A powerhouse West Des Moines Dowling in the early part of the schedule because Adams says a tough schedule helps them get better. “Playing that kind of competition really helps you for this final push,” Adams says. Adams says there are several things to work on in the final week of the regular season because there are still a few pieces that have to come together. Adams says the past success of the program helps the Knights compete against the bigger schools. Adams says his team expects to win, even when they’re playing top teams like Charles City. In their game against Dowling, Adams says his team went nine innings against the Maroons and had a chance to win. Newman returns to action tonight against North Iowa.