Baseball Preview

Monday, March 30, 2009

Plattsburgh-Clinton Community College Men’s baseball team is relying on speed this season to make the difference according to Head Coach Tom Neale.

“Our team speed is going to be strength. This might be the fastest outfield I’ve had here” said Coach Neale. “Our clean-up hitter is even going to be fast. But, we have to find a way to get on base.”

Pitchers this year include Matt Lamora and Steve Burris. Relief pitchers include

Ryan Armstrong, Cory Davidson, Josh Chapman and David Dejesus.

“Lamora and Burris are two pretty darn good pitchers. But, we’ll need to get a lot of innings out of our pitchers as well.” said Neale.

Behind the plate Davidson and Dan Steitz will share the duties.

“They’re both athletic with good feet and hands, and they throw the ball well. But they are inexperienced as catchers. We have no other options, however.” according to Neale.

At first base it will be Chapman, Justin Mahan at second, Dejesus at short stop and Brock Bannon at third. Richard Chase, Aaron Goldfarb and Allen Spinner will be in the outfield.

“I’m pretty happy with the seven players behind our pitcher and catcher.” Said Neale.

Other players include Adam Bechard, Andy Nephew, Dylan Mahoney, John Canning and Andrew Wright.

Steve Green hurt his shoulder and could be out the rest of the season. He is a solid player at first base and a designated hitter.

“But, we have a lot of guys who can flip around and have six guys who can play any of the infield positions. Pitching is always an issue because it’s tough to have enough and our catchers is a concern because of the inexperience.” said Neale.

Clinton opens the season at Herkimer CC on Saturday, March 28^th.