Post by crogers20 on Sept 30, 2008 14:37:25 GMT 10
VODAFONE STATE LEAGUE PREVIEW
Kingsley Collins, Tuesday, 30 September 2008
VODAFONE STATE LEAGUE
SEASON PREVIEW 2008/09
www.baseballvictoria.com.au/default.asp?Page=47015
While we have pestered the coaches, listened to the whispers and have gazed into the crystal baseball, some rosters are not yet settled and there are eleventh-hour transactions that may still have a bearing on club prospects for 2008/09.
A number of clearance applications – and appeals – will be dealt with during this week, just to spice up selection for the first round.
Notwithstanding late developments, here’s our take on the new Division One season……
BLACKBURN
Coach: Lee Hogan
Reigning champion, the Orioles scored nearly fifty runs more than any opponent during the 2007-08 season, a reflection of their offensive strength. They finished on top of the ladder, rolled Essendon in the Second Semi-Final and held off Malvern Braves 7-6 in the Grand Final.
Heading to college in the United States, James Brooks is a significant loss for his hitting and base speed. However, the Orioles seem to have compensated for the Brooks loss and are looking to another great season.
“Our goal is to go back-to-back, but it’s a tough competition and we’ll just take each game as it comes,” said Club Coach Lee Hogan. “But we’d be disappointed at anything less than a top four finish.”
Awkward southpaw Adam Bright is back in harness for the club, as is a quality act in Paul Weichard. Stuart Cox has been cleared from Melbourne and will vie for a second base spot with Andrew Tierney.
While Bright may only throw a few innings per week, club pitching depth is still impressive. With his eleven wins last season for a miserly ERA of 0.97 over 83 innings – including 95 strikeouts – much will again be expected of Brendan Wilson if he is fit after some problems during the winter. If Wilson is not healthy, the pitching dynamic changes somewhat.
Cameron Hardy (2.52 last year) offers great back-up and Hogan (1.66) is himself sure to play an important role. With John Hussey rumoured to be returning to Billabong Park, the Orioles seem to have their pitching options pretty well covered.
The Orioles’ offensive production is not expected to diminish from last year. Great depth is provided by the likes of the Tierney brothers, Hayden Dingle (.426 and 32 RBIs last year), Ryan Booth (35 RBIs), Daniel Mack, Weichard, Hardy and a number of others.
Notwithstanding Hogan’s lofty goals for 2008/09, the Blackburn club is committed to securing an ongoing future as a Division One power.
“We’ve lost a few players from the lower grades,” said Hogan, “and we’ll be bringing a number of younger kids through the seconds. It’s a great opportunity for them to develop as players and to show the club what they can offer for the future.”
Hogan is under no illusions about the toughness of the competition again this season.
“There are not going to be any easybeats,” he said. “Essendon, Doncaster, Waverley will all be tough again. And Malvern is always a threat with their older, wiser heads – as we saw last year.”
The Orioles open their season at home, with a blockbuster against Waverley on Sunday.
BONBEACH
Coaches: Wade Clester and Paul Rutgers
The Blue Jays won the 2005/06 flag under previous Coach Craig Kernick. Playing in Division One in 2006/07, they were heart-breakingly relegated on the basis of a half game. They won Division Two again last season to bounce back to Divvy One.
Kernick and the club parted company some months ago, with the Head Coach role being jointly entrusted to Wade Clester and Paul Rutgers, the former coming off a coaching stint with Port Melbourne Mariners and the latter leaving his Mulgrave baseball home. Both bring a wealth of coaching and playing experience to the club.
“No-one,” said Clester, “will be taking us easy back in Division One”.
Evergreen Simon Myles has retired (at least for this season), a serious loss to the offence given his terrific form of last summer.
But on the flip side, the Jays have picked up quality infielder Rutgers and Adam Warren (Geelong). Warren is returning to summer baseball after a break and may be used in the DH role and as a “floating” player between firsts and seconds.
An interesting pick-up is catcher/utility Sam Faeder (a New Yorker who played in the Israel Professional League and with Brussels Kangaroos in Belgium). A 23 year old colossus, Faeder has been described as a “gap hitter with speed and some pop”.
Brendan Kelly and superstar Rikki Johnston will miss the first few games.
On paper, the Jays’ pitching roster looks well up to Division One standard, with Ben Donald, Mitch Sheldon-Collins, Johnston and Mathew Prior – all southpaws - putting up skinny ERAs in Division Two last season.
“There are teams that we should beat. But we’ll have to play our top game on the day,” said Clester.
“We don’t have the hitting power of some clubs, but we’ll be aiming to keep the pressure on by putting the ball in play.”
Much will be expected, in offence, from Mark Jones (hit .391, with 27 hits last season), Brendan Kelly, Matt Bucci and Johnston.
“We want to stay in Division One this time and we’ll be out to prove ourselves, especially if we can string a few wins together before the Christmas break.”
“We have a good core of young players and we are looking to the future.”
“Win the games we should win and we will attract other players to the club”.
The Blue Jays will host Doncaster in a testing first round match-up on Sunday.
DONCASTER
Coaches: Stephen Black and Marshall Skinner
With a justifiable reputation as one of the strongest and best-administered clubs in the land, the Dragons have high expectations for 2008/09.
They finished fourth, last year, after returning from Division 2 and surprising many people prior to the Christmas break, notwithstanding their great reliance on Jason Blejwas, Chris Nicholas and Chris Hodkinson.
Under their new coaches, the Dragons have lost the emerging Andrew Mazzocato (to college in the United States), Scott Couling, Chris Hodkinson and Sean Toulson.
Chris Nicholas will miss at least the first few games.
A huge pick-up is Peter Stokes from Sunshine. He will likely play third, but can also slot in at first base or as DH. In whatever role, his hitting power will be of huge benefit.
Middle-infielder and lead-off hitter Michael Daykin has been cleared from Upwey, utility Cameron Ross is back, Stuart Chinn has been cleared from Upwey and right-handed pitcher Stephen Hood has crossed over from Waverley.
With a number of appeals to be heard this week, the Dragons may yet have two or three more emerging stars available for selection.
Popular joint coach Stephen Black has a clear idea of where the club is headed.
“The club had a taste of very good baseball last season…..we are striving to improve and to move forward at this level”
Workhorse on the hill last year (117 innings, 10 wins, 104 strikeouts), Jason Blejwas is expected to do a bit less, requiring more from fellow righties in Hood, Michael Dobelli and the towering Lachlan Craven. Currently with V.I.S., Rhys Aldenhoven will also be spending time on the hill.
“We want to use Blejwas less if possible, but we are not over-endowed with starters – and we have a few sore arms. Hood will be important for us.”
Stokes adds serious power to an already strong lineup. The explosive Blejwas was voted Division One MVP last season, also taking a hitting “triple” (.443 average, 36 RBIs and seven home runs), while Cameron Hubbard, Ken O’Malley (.394 from 43 hits) and Daniel Passlow will again be among the dangerous hitters (assuming that Passlow returns to the club in the near future).
“Every team will be after us,” said Black. “and all the clubs are going to be tough.”
“Blackburn are going to score a lot of runs. Waverley and Essendon are definitely stronger this time around.”
Important as it is, winning games at this level is not the only objective for the incoming coaches.
“Marshall and I have been around the game a lot and we’re aiming to be a stabilising influence that helps create pathways for players as a Division One club,” said Black.
“The Dragons’ club structure is very sound. We are aiming to help maintain a club culture that makes it attractive to play with Doncaster.”
ESSENDON
Coach: Russell Spear
By some measure, Essendon has under-achieved over the past several years. It has seemed to have the personnel – and has often promised much – but has not taken a Division One title since 1995/96.
Placed second after the regular season last time, the club bowed out in losing both finals.
The Bombers’ only telling loss seems to be Ryan Evans (cleared to Malvern).
Once again, there is an apparent “embarrassment of riches” for the senior squad.
“We have great depth in the firsts and seconds,” said Club Coach Russell Spear. “That’s going to create healthy competition within the club. Players are going to have to earn their positions and no-one can take anything for granted”.
Not even the likes of outstanding players returning to Boeing Reserve.
Michael Pollock is back from college and should comfortably slot into short stop, adding hitting power and base speed. If fellow collegiate star Dean McIntyre returns prior to Christmas, he will add plenty in the outfield, at first base or on the hill if required as a left-handed option.
Dean Marnell and Ross Drinkwater are two “old heads” back at the club. Although you wouldn’t expect them to start in the ones, Marnell will at some point for pressing for an outfield spot.
The Bombers’ pitching will again be a serious strength. Expect Spear to lead from the front and spend more time on the hill this season.
“Casey Jones (ERA of 2.57 last year) has been a great workhorse for us, but we’ve widened our pitching options for this year,” said Spear.
“Rory Meddick will be back after a season off, Hipke has been training well, Josh Davies will get some work later in the season and John Edwards can eat up some innings if required.”
The “healthy competition” of which Spear speaks means that there should be no passengers in an offence that boasts the likes of the coach himself (hit .390 last season), Edwards (23 RBIs, with five home runs), Tristen McDonald (who has beefed up after a winter in the gym), Mark Saunderson, Brett Tamburrino, Tim Sullivan and Adrian Kelly.
“Tamburrino is a huge acquisition when he’s 100% healthy,” said Spear. “And let’s not forget Scott McIntyre, who made Claxton Shield and had a terrific year last time. He’ll give us plenty at the hot corner.”
It’s sounding like a selector’s nightmare at Bomberland, with youngsters such as Josh Licence, Jarryd Rogers and Sam Moon also likely to be pushing their case.
“Our mission for this year is to win the championship,” said Spear.
“The last few years we’ve been working on our development. We’ve had some terrific young kids coming through but now we are looking at winning baseball games at all levels.”
The Bombers have the chance to assess their early form as they take on Newport at Boeing Reserve on Sunday.
GEELONG
Coach: Nathan Holmes
Surprise championship winners in 2005/06, Geelong finished seventh last year, with eight wins and two draws. They clearly missed southpaw Josh Spence and the mid-season retirement of Cameron Forbes was a blow to their prospects.
Plenty has been happening in Sleepy Hollow during the off-season, with the club starting training earlier than most, rebranding itself as the “Baycats” and quietly going about strengthening its structures and raising its profile in the local community.
Known for its capacity to develop “home-grown” players, the Baycats have lost catcher Dale Ricketts (Kansas City Community College) and Nick Spence (Central Arizona College). Joel Ricketts (Washburn University) and Josh Spence (Arizona State University) will again be otherwise occupied.
Matt Ryan is having a season off, while superstar Cam Forbes is unlikely to consider a comeback until next season – if at all. Experienced third sacker Troy Snarey is reported to be carrying a leg injury from winter baseball.
Despite the losses, Coach Nathan Holmes expects the Baycats to be a force this season, pointing to some significant “ins”.
Morgan Brown, a slick shortstop who hits with power and has great base speed, joins the club with impressive credentials.
“Morgan played with Harvard University and has spent the last six months in Belgium,” said Holmes.
The 26-year old Brown was an outstanding junior athlete in several sports. He comes from a strong academic background and was a United States finalist for a Rhodes Scholarship. He overcame serious injury to make Baseball America’s 2006 All-Ivy First Team.
“He’s a quality person,” said Holmes. “He’ll be a great mentor for our younger players.”
Versatile Ross Wilson is back after a couple of years off to hold down a corner and give the Baycats something with the bat.
“Elliot Biddle will give us a full season after a stint with the Minnesota Twins organisation. He’ll add speed to the outfield, he’s a seriously dangerous hitter and he offers us another left-handed pitching option,” said Holmes.
After further knee surgery, Holmes himself will catch and will provide direction for his younger pitchers, aside from still being one of the more feared hitters in the league.
“Our offence will be better,” said Holmes, “and our defence should pick up on last year.”
Pitching, though, could be the Baycats’ Achilles heel. With Brad Egan still doubtful, Dean Barker will need to at his best – while much will be expected of several emerging youngsters.
“Our pitchers will need to step up,” said Holmes, “but it’s a great opportunity for our
developing players.”
“It’s a tough competition for all the clubs. After all, it’s club baseball. We just don’t have the resources – or the resilience - of professional sport. A couple of injuries, or some work commitments for key players, and even the strongest can come back to the field,” said Holmes.
“We’ll just keep doing what we know is right – to produce young baseballers and give them their opportunities at this level and beyond.”
The Baycats open their summer campaign with away games – in all grades – at Malvern on Saturday.
MALVERN
Coaches: Daryl Dicker and Simon Ratcliffe
Regular finalists over the past decade, the Braves continue to confound pundits who have written them off prior to the past several seasons. Although their last championship was in 2004/05, the Braves were a surprise packet last year – to some – by finishing third after the regular season and then falling just short of pinching the title in a Grand Final showdown with Blackburn.
A vastly experienced outfit led by astute coaches, the Braves have suffered two telling losses from last season.
Superstar Bryan Silverman is not returning, after a great season in U.S. Independent baseball that may see him fast-tracked for higher honours. At 35 years of age, second baseman Jeff Hill has opted to take a year’s break.
However, the club has gained Ryan Evans (on clearance from Essendon). Seeking more regular game time at this level, Evans can slot into the middle infield or play outfield.
“His versatility, hitting power and determination will be great assets,” said Daryl Dicker.
Transferring from Newport, Marc McKenner will bolster the Braves’ offence, while Paul Wignall has moved across from Sandringham. Southpaw Brendan Ratcliffe returns after a break last summer.
“We know we’ll be competitive,” said Dicker. “We think we can win it, but we’re under no illusions how tough it will be.”
While the Braves do not quite enjoy the “glamour club” status accorded to others in the league, they will be tough competitors behind an accomplished and varied pitching roster and a solid defence.
Tossing 101 innings last season, Ross McLean was the Braves’ workhouse, with some great outings against the leading clubs. But no-one will be underestimating Mark Richards, especially after his Preliminary Final heroics against the vaunted Essendon offence just over six months ago.
With young Chris Wall, Stuart Willemsen and Brendan Ratcliffe all in harness and raring to go, Malvern will match the pitching depth of most clubs. Their southpaws will help provide great variety behind McLean and Richards.
With Silverman gone, the offence may need to take it up a notch behind Andrew McKenzie (who hit a staggering .430 last season, with 40 hits and 29 RBIs).
Lead-off McHarg, Brad Whitford, Justin Whitford, Simon Ratcliffe, Johnston and Young will all need to contribute with the bat, on a consistent basis again this year, in a lineup that is ever-capable of manufacturing runs when they are required.
While Dicker acknowledges that Blackburn, Essendon, Doncaster and Waverley are looking ominous, his club should be well among the action.
“There are six or seven clubs that look like being pretty evenly matched,” he said. “A lot will depend on pitching rotations and handling three games a week situations.”
NEWPORT
Coach: Darren Malthouse
The Rams finished sixth last year, with ten wins and two split results. Always tough to beat at the graveyard, their wins included two over Waverley and a late-season upset over Blackburn.
Former Coach Marc McKenner has crossed to Malvern, a serious loss to the Rams’ offence. Catcher and slugger Lenart Koster has returned to Europe.
Coach Darren Malthouse is confident that the Rams have adequately covered those losses.
“Our goal is to be even more competitive than last year. We’re shooting for a top-four finish”.
Whether that goal becomes attainable will depend largely on the Rams’ pitching depth. Last year they shared duties around between a number of players – with some degree of success. Nevertheless, they still conceded 175 runs, the second highest of any Division One side.
An important pick-up is 26 year-old right-hander David Watkins, who spent several years with the Braves organisation. He boasts a Minor/Independent League ERA of 3.22 over the past seven seasons.
“Watkins will be important for us,” said Malthouse. “But we have a number of options.”
Scott Malthouse is back in work after carrying a sore arm last summer, while the experienced Chris Bramwell and David Asp will suit up again. Apart from Malthouse, the Rams have a number of younger players now out of Under 18s and able to focus on senior baseball.
“The likes of Liam Dineen and Liam Vicary-Lovegrove should take a step up this year,” Malthouse said. “And we can call on Land, Stein and Leitch to do some work when required.”
While McKenner is a loss to a side not renowned for its offensive power, the youngsters are a year older and that much bigger. Matthew Lawman hit .437 last season, while Jonathon Bramwell, Chris Bramwell, Land, Vicary-Lovegrove and Malthouse are all capable of doing damage with the bat.
Malthouse regards Blackburn and Waverley as appearing the toughest to beat.
“But we can’t concern ourselves with what the others do,” he said. “We just need to win the games that we should win, especially on our home turf”.
“We’ve been training since early August and strengthening our skills in executing good defence.”
“And we’ve spent a lot of time on hitting. We’re really excited about the new season.”
SANDRINGHAM
Coach: Daniel McGrath
Runner-up in Division Two last year, the Royals return to the elite division after going down for one season.
Former Manager James Sanders has headed back to United States – a serious loss – while Paul Wignall is expected to be heading over to Malvern. Grant Irving has transferred in from the Blackburn club.
Sanders has been replaced by the widely-respected Daniel McGrath, who is returning after several years in the United States. McGrath played Australian National League with the Reds in 1994/95. He was a three-time Australian and four-time Victorian player before spending several years at college and coaching in America.
McGrath will be back on 6 October. He has been appointed for three years, an indication of club and player faith in his managerial skills.
“It’s out eightieth year and there’s a really positive feeling around the club,” said Royals’ President Barry Fisher.
“Dan is excited to be back playing and the players are genuinely thrilled to have a person of his experience and stature in Australian baseball”.
An interesting pick-up for the Royals is Dennis Kelly, a U.S. national who has been playing in Sweden. Kelly is an outfielder who hits well and can pitch. Playing for Karlskoga in the 2008 Swedish League, he hit .521 as lead-off.
While the form-line is hard to assess, Kelly is expected to hit for average and power, is quick on the bases and will be a versatile addition to the Sandy outfit
Southpaw McGrath will offer a great pitching option, along with Matthew Blackmore (last season ERA of 0.86), Matthew Holmes (2.79) and Brendan Horne (3.09). Kelly can eat up some innings, especially in the shorter mid-week contests.
While it remains to be seen if the Royals can produce enough in offensive output back in Division One, they can expect great service from Robert Anthony (hit .353 in Division Two last season), Matthew Blackmore (who is capable of just about anything), Kelly and Irving.
“James Sanders is a serious loss,” said Fisher, “but we are confident that Dennis Kelly will help cover that, with his versatility, base speed and hitting power.”
“A few clubs tend to bounce between Division One and Division Two,” he said. “We want to stay up this time around and we are confident that we’ve put the strategies in place to help us achieve that goal.”
“The club is moving into a developmental phase, with Under 18s , for the first time for some years, a women’s team and a real feeling of club identity.”
“We will be competitive and there is a strong expectation of success.”
SUNSHINE
Coach: Matt Kent
The Eagles finished eighth last year, with eight wins and two draws. With Australian representatives Matt Kent and Greg Wiltshire not available for several games, it was a tough season and the club did pretty well to hang on in Division One.
Peter Stokes has been cleared to Doncaster, along with Marshall Skinner (who has taken up the joint coaching position with the Dragons). Stokes is a significant loss to the Eagles, especially for his hitting power in an offence that managed just 99 runs in 2007/08.
“We were average last year, but are looking to be more consistent this time around,” said Eagles Coach Matt Kent.
One of the keys to an improved season could be the performance of U.S. import Ryan Trytten. A right-handed pitcher and position player, Trytten was originally drafted by Milwaukee, then spent some time with San Diego before his most recent gig with the Lincoln Salt Dogs, Nebraska.
Trytten is 27, 6’2” and weighs in at 225 pounds. He posted an ERA last season of 3.52 over 102 innings in 17 starts, with 81 strikeouts.
Trytten should be a great addition to the pitching roster, with Greg Wiltshire (ERA of 2.60 last summer) likely to be available for more games. A workhorse last year – throwing 83 innings - James Ross can expect plenty of mound time, along with Lindsay Webb and a few others who can “chew up” a few innings here and there.
“We have the four top-line pitchers who will give us a solid base, especially with the tough season schedule,” said Kent.
“Trytten is a rightie with an over the top power arm, consistently clocking into low nineties. A similar thrower to Wiltshire, strong and tough and with good speed.”
“Our defence is looking solid, with Scott Moore set for a big season.”
“Pat Lovelock has had a few shoulder problems, but we hope he will be right for the start.”
Hitting .405, Matt Kent was the offensive stand-out last season. Regular input will be required from the likes of Slade Squire, Brad Jones, Moore and Lovelock if the Eagles are to put scoring pressure on the stronger clubs.
“Our main challenge is to replace the Stokes hitting power in offence,” said Kent. “He’s a huge loss, but we have to make the adjustment to that.”
While recognising that Blackburn, Essendon, Waverley, Doncaster and others are going to be tough, Kent is upbeat about his club’s prospects.
“We’re looking to win some games early on and build from there. Our main objective is to consolidate our position in Division One. I’m confident we can achieve that.”
WAVERLEY
Coach: Phil Dale
The Wildcats won the Division One championship in 2006/07, but finished fifth – last year - in what was a disappointing season for this proud and successful club. The appointment of Phil Dale as Club Coach is one of great symbolism, given his lengthy and distinguished history with the Wildcats and the Reds organisations.
The club was struck a pre-season blow, with left-handed ace Brett Flemming sustaining a leg injury that will keep him sidelined for most of the summer season.
But that’s probably the only bad news as the Wildcats continue to build towards a strong season.
“We’re aiming to win the championship, make no mistake about that,” said Dale. “But at least a top four finish.”
With a number of quality players changing clubs across the league, the Wildcats appear to have fared very well.
“Scott Wearne adds depth as a hitter and all-round player,” said Dale. “His performance during the pre-season series shows that he is raring to go.”
“Joshua Hendricks and Taylor McEvoy will be coming up as regulars this season. Both just seventeen, and they have great futures in the game.”
Adam Blackley has been cleared from Cheltenham and should be available all season. Brother Travis will be joining the club in December, although he is likely to be on deck for only six or seven games. Both are free agents, so there is no restriction on their mound time with the Wildcats.
Still to be confirmed, it is believed another outstanding young southpaw may suit up for some work with the club over summer at the request of his professional club.
Club pitching stocks are looking very bright. Experienced leftie Donavon Hendricks (ERA of 2.03 last season) will be a gun, Grant Karlsen can throw some innings, while Wearne and McEvoy are others who can throw consistently into the mid-eighties.
“We’ve been training our defence hard and they’re keen to go,” said Dale.
“We’ll be solid all around the field, with a number of guys who can play multiple positions.”
Hodges, Russell, Reinke, Carlson and Wearne will all help deliver that solidity during game time. The Wildcats had just 88 runs scored against them last season – the least of any in the league.
“Beresford will provide great value when available – he’s having a break after a tough schedule in the U.S.,” Dale added. “Glen Mascoll is a defensive key and adds good base speed.”
Winning baseball games is about scoring runs, however, and the Wildcats will not be lacking in that regard. Karlsen will again be an offensive leader (37 hits for 26 RBIs last season), Andrew Russell will be ever dangerous (25 RBIs, with six home runs), Wearne is great in the clutch and Evan Phillips is among a number of others able to deliver in offence.
While Phil Dale views Blackburn and Essendon as his main threats, his focus is squarely on his own charges and the continued advancement of his club at the top level.
“Sometimes playing three games in a week means we’ll be concerning ourselves with ourselves, keeping the runs down against all sides,” he said.
“Club focus continues to be on bringing the younger guys through…..we aim to provide a pathway from juniors right through to this level and beyond. Nothing will change in that regard.”
Kingsley Collins, Tuesday, 30 September 2008
VODAFONE STATE LEAGUE
SEASON PREVIEW 2008/09
www.baseballvictoria.com.au/default.asp?Page=47015
While we have pestered the coaches, listened to the whispers and have gazed into the crystal baseball, some rosters are not yet settled and there are eleventh-hour transactions that may still have a bearing on club prospects for 2008/09.
A number of clearance applications – and appeals – will be dealt with during this week, just to spice up selection for the first round.
Notwithstanding late developments, here’s our take on the new Division One season……
BLACKBURN
Coach: Lee Hogan
Reigning champion, the Orioles scored nearly fifty runs more than any opponent during the 2007-08 season, a reflection of their offensive strength. They finished on top of the ladder, rolled Essendon in the Second Semi-Final and held off Malvern Braves 7-6 in the Grand Final.
Heading to college in the United States, James Brooks is a significant loss for his hitting and base speed. However, the Orioles seem to have compensated for the Brooks loss and are looking to another great season.
“Our goal is to go back-to-back, but it’s a tough competition and we’ll just take each game as it comes,” said Club Coach Lee Hogan. “But we’d be disappointed at anything less than a top four finish.”
Awkward southpaw Adam Bright is back in harness for the club, as is a quality act in Paul Weichard. Stuart Cox has been cleared from Melbourne and will vie for a second base spot with Andrew Tierney.
While Bright may only throw a few innings per week, club pitching depth is still impressive. With his eleven wins last season for a miserly ERA of 0.97 over 83 innings – including 95 strikeouts – much will again be expected of Brendan Wilson if he is fit after some problems during the winter. If Wilson is not healthy, the pitching dynamic changes somewhat.
Cameron Hardy (2.52 last year) offers great back-up and Hogan (1.66) is himself sure to play an important role. With John Hussey rumoured to be returning to Billabong Park, the Orioles seem to have their pitching options pretty well covered.
The Orioles’ offensive production is not expected to diminish from last year. Great depth is provided by the likes of the Tierney brothers, Hayden Dingle (.426 and 32 RBIs last year), Ryan Booth (35 RBIs), Daniel Mack, Weichard, Hardy and a number of others.
Notwithstanding Hogan’s lofty goals for 2008/09, the Blackburn club is committed to securing an ongoing future as a Division One power.
“We’ve lost a few players from the lower grades,” said Hogan, “and we’ll be bringing a number of younger kids through the seconds. It’s a great opportunity for them to develop as players and to show the club what they can offer for the future.”
Hogan is under no illusions about the toughness of the competition again this season.
“There are not going to be any easybeats,” he said. “Essendon, Doncaster, Waverley will all be tough again. And Malvern is always a threat with their older, wiser heads – as we saw last year.”
The Orioles open their season at home, with a blockbuster against Waverley on Sunday.
BONBEACH
Coaches: Wade Clester and Paul Rutgers
The Blue Jays won the 2005/06 flag under previous Coach Craig Kernick. Playing in Division One in 2006/07, they were heart-breakingly relegated on the basis of a half game. They won Division Two again last season to bounce back to Divvy One.
Kernick and the club parted company some months ago, with the Head Coach role being jointly entrusted to Wade Clester and Paul Rutgers, the former coming off a coaching stint with Port Melbourne Mariners and the latter leaving his Mulgrave baseball home. Both bring a wealth of coaching and playing experience to the club.
“No-one,” said Clester, “will be taking us easy back in Division One”.
Evergreen Simon Myles has retired (at least for this season), a serious loss to the offence given his terrific form of last summer.
But on the flip side, the Jays have picked up quality infielder Rutgers and Adam Warren (Geelong). Warren is returning to summer baseball after a break and may be used in the DH role and as a “floating” player between firsts and seconds.
An interesting pick-up is catcher/utility Sam Faeder (a New Yorker who played in the Israel Professional League and with Brussels Kangaroos in Belgium). A 23 year old colossus, Faeder has been described as a “gap hitter with speed and some pop”.
Brendan Kelly and superstar Rikki Johnston will miss the first few games.
On paper, the Jays’ pitching roster looks well up to Division One standard, with Ben Donald, Mitch Sheldon-Collins, Johnston and Mathew Prior – all southpaws - putting up skinny ERAs in Division Two last season.
“There are teams that we should beat. But we’ll have to play our top game on the day,” said Clester.
“We don’t have the hitting power of some clubs, but we’ll be aiming to keep the pressure on by putting the ball in play.”
Much will be expected, in offence, from Mark Jones (hit .391, with 27 hits last season), Brendan Kelly, Matt Bucci and Johnston.
“We want to stay in Division One this time and we’ll be out to prove ourselves, especially if we can string a few wins together before the Christmas break.”
“We have a good core of young players and we are looking to the future.”
“Win the games we should win and we will attract other players to the club”.
The Blue Jays will host Doncaster in a testing first round match-up on Sunday.
DONCASTER
Coaches: Stephen Black and Marshall Skinner
With a justifiable reputation as one of the strongest and best-administered clubs in the land, the Dragons have high expectations for 2008/09.
They finished fourth, last year, after returning from Division 2 and surprising many people prior to the Christmas break, notwithstanding their great reliance on Jason Blejwas, Chris Nicholas and Chris Hodkinson.
Under their new coaches, the Dragons have lost the emerging Andrew Mazzocato (to college in the United States), Scott Couling, Chris Hodkinson and Sean Toulson.
Chris Nicholas will miss at least the first few games.
A huge pick-up is Peter Stokes from Sunshine. He will likely play third, but can also slot in at first base or as DH. In whatever role, his hitting power will be of huge benefit.
Middle-infielder and lead-off hitter Michael Daykin has been cleared from Upwey, utility Cameron Ross is back, Stuart Chinn has been cleared from Upwey and right-handed pitcher Stephen Hood has crossed over from Waverley.
With a number of appeals to be heard this week, the Dragons may yet have two or three more emerging stars available for selection.
Popular joint coach Stephen Black has a clear idea of where the club is headed.
“The club had a taste of very good baseball last season…..we are striving to improve and to move forward at this level”
Workhorse on the hill last year (117 innings, 10 wins, 104 strikeouts), Jason Blejwas is expected to do a bit less, requiring more from fellow righties in Hood, Michael Dobelli and the towering Lachlan Craven. Currently with V.I.S., Rhys Aldenhoven will also be spending time on the hill.
“We want to use Blejwas less if possible, but we are not over-endowed with starters – and we have a few sore arms. Hood will be important for us.”
Stokes adds serious power to an already strong lineup. The explosive Blejwas was voted Division One MVP last season, also taking a hitting “triple” (.443 average, 36 RBIs and seven home runs), while Cameron Hubbard, Ken O’Malley (.394 from 43 hits) and Daniel Passlow will again be among the dangerous hitters (assuming that Passlow returns to the club in the near future).
“Every team will be after us,” said Black. “and all the clubs are going to be tough.”
“Blackburn are going to score a lot of runs. Waverley and Essendon are definitely stronger this time around.”
Important as it is, winning games at this level is not the only objective for the incoming coaches.
“Marshall and I have been around the game a lot and we’re aiming to be a stabilising influence that helps create pathways for players as a Division One club,” said Black.
“The Dragons’ club structure is very sound. We are aiming to help maintain a club culture that makes it attractive to play with Doncaster.”
ESSENDON
Coach: Russell Spear
By some measure, Essendon has under-achieved over the past several years. It has seemed to have the personnel – and has often promised much – but has not taken a Division One title since 1995/96.
Placed second after the regular season last time, the club bowed out in losing both finals.
The Bombers’ only telling loss seems to be Ryan Evans (cleared to Malvern).
Once again, there is an apparent “embarrassment of riches” for the senior squad.
“We have great depth in the firsts and seconds,” said Club Coach Russell Spear. “That’s going to create healthy competition within the club. Players are going to have to earn their positions and no-one can take anything for granted”.
Not even the likes of outstanding players returning to Boeing Reserve.
Michael Pollock is back from college and should comfortably slot into short stop, adding hitting power and base speed. If fellow collegiate star Dean McIntyre returns prior to Christmas, he will add plenty in the outfield, at first base or on the hill if required as a left-handed option.
Dean Marnell and Ross Drinkwater are two “old heads” back at the club. Although you wouldn’t expect them to start in the ones, Marnell will at some point for pressing for an outfield spot.
The Bombers’ pitching will again be a serious strength. Expect Spear to lead from the front and spend more time on the hill this season.
“Casey Jones (ERA of 2.57 last year) has been a great workhorse for us, but we’ve widened our pitching options for this year,” said Spear.
“Rory Meddick will be back after a season off, Hipke has been training well, Josh Davies will get some work later in the season and John Edwards can eat up some innings if required.”
The “healthy competition” of which Spear speaks means that there should be no passengers in an offence that boasts the likes of the coach himself (hit .390 last season), Edwards (23 RBIs, with five home runs), Tristen McDonald (who has beefed up after a winter in the gym), Mark Saunderson, Brett Tamburrino, Tim Sullivan and Adrian Kelly.
“Tamburrino is a huge acquisition when he’s 100% healthy,” said Spear. “And let’s not forget Scott McIntyre, who made Claxton Shield and had a terrific year last time. He’ll give us plenty at the hot corner.”
It’s sounding like a selector’s nightmare at Bomberland, with youngsters such as Josh Licence, Jarryd Rogers and Sam Moon also likely to be pushing their case.
“Our mission for this year is to win the championship,” said Spear.
“The last few years we’ve been working on our development. We’ve had some terrific young kids coming through but now we are looking at winning baseball games at all levels.”
The Bombers have the chance to assess their early form as they take on Newport at Boeing Reserve on Sunday.
GEELONG
Coach: Nathan Holmes
Surprise championship winners in 2005/06, Geelong finished seventh last year, with eight wins and two draws. They clearly missed southpaw Josh Spence and the mid-season retirement of Cameron Forbes was a blow to their prospects.
Plenty has been happening in Sleepy Hollow during the off-season, with the club starting training earlier than most, rebranding itself as the “Baycats” and quietly going about strengthening its structures and raising its profile in the local community.
Known for its capacity to develop “home-grown” players, the Baycats have lost catcher Dale Ricketts (Kansas City Community College) and Nick Spence (Central Arizona College). Joel Ricketts (Washburn University) and Josh Spence (Arizona State University) will again be otherwise occupied.
Matt Ryan is having a season off, while superstar Cam Forbes is unlikely to consider a comeback until next season – if at all. Experienced third sacker Troy Snarey is reported to be carrying a leg injury from winter baseball.
Despite the losses, Coach Nathan Holmes expects the Baycats to be a force this season, pointing to some significant “ins”.
Morgan Brown, a slick shortstop who hits with power and has great base speed, joins the club with impressive credentials.
“Morgan played with Harvard University and has spent the last six months in Belgium,” said Holmes.
The 26-year old Brown was an outstanding junior athlete in several sports. He comes from a strong academic background and was a United States finalist for a Rhodes Scholarship. He overcame serious injury to make Baseball America’s 2006 All-Ivy First Team.
“He’s a quality person,” said Holmes. “He’ll be a great mentor for our younger players.”
Versatile Ross Wilson is back after a couple of years off to hold down a corner and give the Baycats something with the bat.
“Elliot Biddle will give us a full season after a stint with the Minnesota Twins organisation. He’ll add speed to the outfield, he’s a seriously dangerous hitter and he offers us another left-handed pitching option,” said Holmes.
After further knee surgery, Holmes himself will catch and will provide direction for his younger pitchers, aside from still being one of the more feared hitters in the league.
“Our offence will be better,” said Holmes, “and our defence should pick up on last year.”
Pitching, though, could be the Baycats’ Achilles heel. With Brad Egan still doubtful, Dean Barker will need to at his best – while much will be expected of several emerging youngsters.
“Our pitchers will need to step up,” said Holmes, “but it’s a great opportunity for our
developing players.”
“It’s a tough competition for all the clubs. After all, it’s club baseball. We just don’t have the resources – or the resilience - of professional sport. A couple of injuries, or some work commitments for key players, and even the strongest can come back to the field,” said Holmes.
“We’ll just keep doing what we know is right – to produce young baseballers and give them their opportunities at this level and beyond.”
The Baycats open their summer campaign with away games – in all grades – at Malvern on Saturday.
MALVERN
Coaches: Daryl Dicker and Simon Ratcliffe
Regular finalists over the past decade, the Braves continue to confound pundits who have written them off prior to the past several seasons. Although their last championship was in 2004/05, the Braves were a surprise packet last year – to some – by finishing third after the regular season and then falling just short of pinching the title in a Grand Final showdown with Blackburn.
A vastly experienced outfit led by astute coaches, the Braves have suffered two telling losses from last season.
Superstar Bryan Silverman is not returning, after a great season in U.S. Independent baseball that may see him fast-tracked for higher honours. At 35 years of age, second baseman Jeff Hill has opted to take a year’s break.
However, the club has gained Ryan Evans (on clearance from Essendon). Seeking more regular game time at this level, Evans can slot into the middle infield or play outfield.
“His versatility, hitting power and determination will be great assets,” said Daryl Dicker.
Transferring from Newport, Marc McKenner will bolster the Braves’ offence, while Paul Wignall has moved across from Sandringham. Southpaw Brendan Ratcliffe returns after a break last summer.
“We know we’ll be competitive,” said Dicker. “We think we can win it, but we’re under no illusions how tough it will be.”
While the Braves do not quite enjoy the “glamour club” status accorded to others in the league, they will be tough competitors behind an accomplished and varied pitching roster and a solid defence.
Tossing 101 innings last season, Ross McLean was the Braves’ workhouse, with some great outings against the leading clubs. But no-one will be underestimating Mark Richards, especially after his Preliminary Final heroics against the vaunted Essendon offence just over six months ago.
With young Chris Wall, Stuart Willemsen and Brendan Ratcliffe all in harness and raring to go, Malvern will match the pitching depth of most clubs. Their southpaws will help provide great variety behind McLean and Richards.
With Silverman gone, the offence may need to take it up a notch behind Andrew McKenzie (who hit a staggering .430 last season, with 40 hits and 29 RBIs).
Lead-off McHarg, Brad Whitford, Justin Whitford, Simon Ratcliffe, Johnston and Young will all need to contribute with the bat, on a consistent basis again this year, in a lineup that is ever-capable of manufacturing runs when they are required.
While Dicker acknowledges that Blackburn, Essendon, Doncaster and Waverley are looking ominous, his club should be well among the action.
“There are six or seven clubs that look like being pretty evenly matched,” he said. “A lot will depend on pitching rotations and handling three games a week situations.”
NEWPORT
Coach: Darren Malthouse
The Rams finished sixth last year, with ten wins and two split results. Always tough to beat at the graveyard, their wins included two over Waverley and a late-season upset over Blackburn.
Former Coach Marc McKenner has crossed to Malvern, a serious loss to the Rams’ offence. Catcher and slugger Lenart Koster has returned to Europe.
Coach Darren Malthouse is confident that the Rams have adequately covered those losses.
“Our goal is to be even more competitive than last year. We’re shooting for a top-four finish”.
Whether that goal becomes attainable will depend largely on the Rams’ pitching depth. Last year they shared duties around between a number of players – with some degree of success. Nevertheless, they still conceded 175 runs, the second highest of any Division One side.
An important pick-up is 26 year-old right-hander David Watkins, who spent several years with the Braves organisation. He boasts a Minor/Independent League ERA of 3.22 over the past seven seasons.
“Watkins will be important for us,” said Malthouse. “But we have a number of options.”
Scott Malthouse is back in work after carrying a sore arm last summer, while the experienced Chris Bramwell and David Asp will suit up again. Apart from Malthouse, the Rams have a number of younger players now out of Under 18s and able to focus on senior baseball.
“The likes of Liam Dineen and Liam Vicary-Lovegrove should take a step up this year,” Malthouse said. “And we can call on Land, Stein and Leitch to do some work when required.”
While McKenner is a loss to a side not renowned for its offensive power, the youngsters are a year older and that much bigger. Matthew Lawman hit .437 last season, while Jonathon Bramwell, Chris Bramwell, Land, Vicary-Lovegrove and Malthouse are all capable of doing damage with the bat.
Malthouse regards Blackburn and Waverley as appearing the toughest to beat.
“But we can’t concern ourselves with what the others do,” he said. “We just need to win the games that we should win, especially on our home turf”.
“We’ve been training since early August and strengthening our skills in executing good defence.”
“And we’ve spent a lot of time on hitting. We’re really excited about the new season.”
SANDRINGHAM
Coach: Daniel McGrath
Runner-up in Division Two last year, the Royals return to the elite division after going down for one season.
Former Manager James Sanders has headed back to United States – a serious loss – while Paul Wignall is expected to be heading over to Malvern. Grant Irving has transferred in from the Blackburn club.
Sanders has been replaced by the widely-respected Daniel McGrath, who is returning after several years in the United States. McGrath played Australian National League with the Reds in 1994/95. He was a three-time Australian and four-time Victorian player before spending several years at college and coaching in America.
McGrath will be back on 6 October. He has been appointed for three years, an indication of club and player faith in his managerial skills.
“It’s out eightieth year and there’s a really positive feeling around the club,” said Royals’ President Barry Fisher.
“Dan is excited to be back playing and the players are genuinely thrilled to have a person of his experience and stature in Australian baseball”.
An interesting pick-up for the Royals is Dennis Kelly, a U.S. national who has been playing in Sweden. Kelly is an outfielder who hits well and can pitch. Playing for Karlskoga in the 2008 Swedish League, he hit .521 as lead-off.
While the form-line is hard to assess, Kelly is expected to hit for average and power, is quick on the bases and will be a versatile addition to the Sandy outfit
Southpaw McGrath will offer a great pitching option, along with Matthew Blackmore (last season ERA of 0.86), Matthew Holmes (2.79) and Brendan Horne (3.09). Kelly can eat up some innings, especially in the shorter mid-week contests.
While it remains to be seen if the Royals can produce enough in offensive output back in Division One, they can expect great service from Robert Anthony (hit .353 in Division Two last season), Matthew Blackmore (who is capable of just about anything), Kelly and Irving.
“James Sanders is a serious loss,” said Fisher, “but we are confident that Dennis Kelly will help cover that, with his versatility, base speed and hitting power.”
“A few clubs tend to bounce between Division One and Division Two,” he said. “We want to stay up this time around and we are confident that we’ve put the strategies in place to help us achieve that goal.”
“The club is moving into a developmental phase, with Under 18s , for the first time for some years, a women’s team and a real feeling of club identity.”
“We will be competitive and there is a strong expectation of success.”
SUNSHINE
Coach: Matt Kent
The Eagles finished eighth last year, with eight wins and two draws. With Australian representatives Matt Kent and Greg Wiltshire not available for several games, it was a tough season and the club did pretty well to hang on in Division One.
Peter Stokes has been cleared to Doncaster, along with Marshall Skinner (who has taken up the joint coaching position with the Dragons). Stokes is a significant loss to the Eagles, especially for his hitting power in an offence that managed just 99 runs in 2007/08.
“We were average last year, but are looking to be more consistent this time around,” said Eagles Coach Matt Kent.
One of the keys to an improved season could be the performance of U.S. import Ryan Trytten. A right-handed pitcher and position player, Trytten was originally drafted by Milwaukee, then spent some time with San Diego before his most recent gig with the Lincoln Salt Dogs, Nebraska.
Trytten is 27, 6’2” and weighs in at 225 pounds. He posted an ERA last season of 3.52 over 102 innings in 17 starts, with 81 strikeouts.
Trytten should be a great addition to the pitching roster, with Greg Wiltshire (ERA of 2.60 last summer) likely to be available for more games. A workhorse last year – throwing 83 innings - James Ross can expect plenty of mound time, along with Lindsay Webb and a few others who can “chew up” a few innings here and there.
“We have the four top-line pitchers who will give us a solid base, especially with the tough season schedule,” said Kent.
“Trytten is a rightie with an over the top power arm, consistently clocking into low nineties. A similar thrower to Wiltshire, strong and tough and with good speed.”
“Our defence is looking solid, with Scott Moore set for a big season.”
“Pat Lovelock has had a few shoulder problems, but we hope he will be right for the start.”
Hitting .405, Matt Kent was the offensive stand-out last season. Regular input will be required from the likes of Slade Squire, Brad Jones, Moore and Lovelock if the Eagles are to put scoring pressure on the stronger clubs.
“Our main challenge is to replace the Stokes hitting power in offence,” said Kent. “He’s a huge loss, but we have to make the adjustment to that.”
While recognising that Blackburn, Essendon, Waverley, Doncaster and others are going to be tough, Kent is upbeat about his club’s prospects.
“We’re looking to win some games early on and build from there. Our main objective is to consolidate our position in Division One. I’m confident we can achieve that.”
WAVERLEY
Coach: Phil Dale
The Wildcats won the Division One championship in 2006/07, but finished fifth – last year - in what was a disappointing season for this proud and successful club. The appointment of Phil Dale as Club Coach is one of great symbolism, given his lengthy and distinguished history with the Wildcats and the Reds organisations.
The club was struck a pre-season blow, with left-handed ace Brett Flemming sustaining a leg injury that will keep him sidelined for most of the summer season.
But that’s probably the only bad news as the Wildcats continue to build towards a strong season.
“We’re aiming to win the championship, make no mistake about that,” said Dale. “But at least a top four finish.”
With a number of quality players changing clubs across the league, the Wildcats appear to have fared very well.
“Scott Wearne adds depth as a hitter and all-round player,” said Dale. “His performance during the pre-season series shows that he is raring to go.”
“Joshua Hendricks and Taylor McEvoy will be coming up as regulars this season. Both just seventeen, and they have great futures in the game.”
Adam Blackley has been cleared from Cheltenham and should be available all season. Brother Travis will be joining the club in December, although he is likely to be on deck for only six or seven games. Both are free agents, so there is no restriction on their mound time with the Wildcats.
Still to be confirmed, it is believed another outstanding young southpaw may suit up for some work with the club over summer at the request of his professional club.
Club pitching stocks are looking very bright. Experienced leftie Donavon Hendricks (ERA of 2.03 last season) will be a gun, Grant Karlsen can throw some innings, while Wearne and McEvoy are others who can throw consistently into the mid-eighties.
“We’ve been training our defence hard and they’re keen to go,” said Dale.
“We’ll be solid all around the field, with a number of guys who can play multiple positions.”
Hodges, Russell, Reinke, Carlson and Wearne will all help deliver that solidity during game time. The Wildcats had just 88 runs scored against them last season – the least of any in the league.
“Beresford will provide great value when available – he’s having a break after a tough schedule in the U.S.,” Dale added. “Glen Mascoll is a defensive key and adds good base speed.”
Winning baseball games is about scoring runs, however, and the Wildcats will not be lacking in that regard. Karlsen will again be an offensive leader (37 hits for 26 RBIs last season), Andrew Russell will be ever dangerous (25 RBIs, with six home runs), Wearne is great in the clutch and Evan Phillips is among a number of others able to deliver in offence.
While Phil Dale views Blackburn and Essendon as his main threats, his focus is squarely on his own charges and the continued advancement of his club at the top level.
“Sometimes playing three games in a week means we’ll be concerning ourselves with ourselves, keeping the runs down against all sides,” he said.
“Club focus continues to be on bringing the younger guys through…..we aim to provide a pathway from juniors right through to this level and beyond. Nothing will change in that regard.”
Best of luck to the young man.....in the imortal words of the great AC/DC....It's a long way to the top ;D
