Solanco's baseball team isn't accepting average. Coming off a 10-10 record (8-8 league), the Mules didn't waste any time preparing for the 2016 campaign. Since January 2, pitchers and catchers have met weekly. The Mules have nine coaches to allow for more individual instruction. Seven starters return for Solanco. "We're very excited," coach Tom Fish said. "We have a chance to be really good, but we have to stay healthy."
Two of last year's top pitchers graduated but the Mules will be buoyed by Brady Thomas' return to the mound. Thomas was Solanco's starting shortstop last season but was not able to pitch because of an arm injury. "Brady has the best stuff on the staff," said Fish. "He's going to get every opportunity to [anchor the pitching staff]." Reliable Joe Murray will also be in the rotation. "Joe did a great job for us last year," said Fish. "He threw a lot of innings." Dawson Goté and Colin Ewaka are also slated to get some starts. "Dawson has worked extremely hard to be in the mix and he's going to get an opportunity," Fish said. "Colin is also in the mix. He has shown the greatest improvement. The improvement of Dawson and Colin is a big reason for the optimism, along with Joe's reliability and Brady's health." Juniors Josh Kreider and Koby Nerys, who both played on JV last year, could also get some innings. Solanco is set behind the plate with the return of Bailey Keys, a two-time first team All-Star. "Bailey has the possibility of being one of, if not the best, players in the section," said Fish. "He should have a tremendous season." Tony Osborne will take over at first base. "Tony has waited his turn and we expect a good season," said Fish. The second baseman and shortstop will depend on who is pitching. Thomas will be back at shortstop and Murray is capable of playing either position. Solanco can also rely on Mike Worthington. Derek Lavin, the starting center fielder last year, will play third base. "Derek will solidify probably the most difficult position to play in high school baseball," said Fish. Goté, Kreider, and sophomore Trent Myers are competing for time in the outfield. Senior Ethan Cairns came out for the team for the first time and will contribute. "Ethan is an awesome kid," said Fish. "He has a chance to earn a lot of playing time." Freshman Joel McGuire will make an immediate impact. "What an impressive kid," Fish said. "He had all of the coaches excited right away. He's a unique kid. Freshmen like him don't come around too often." Section Two has gotten stronger with the additions of Garden Spot and Lampeter-Strasburg, but Fish expects the Mules to be in contention. "There are no gimmes in our section," Fish said. "Our section is strong, but without question, our goal should always be a section title, and it's a realistic goal." Comments are closed.
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