Gone from last years lineup is pitcher TJ Kendroza (SDSU), Chris Manning (Valparaiso) and Garrett Donohoe (Fullerton JC). Big losses for sure, but the Chargers have a lot returning and some young talent coming up that should slide in nicely.
UC Irvine commit Tyler Brashears moves into the number 1 spot in the rotation and Fresno State signee Garrett Mundell takes over the number 2 position. Senior Brett Hammond is the lone lefty and will be the 1st guy out of the bullpen either in long relief or occasional spot starting. Seniors Matt Levert, Rick Shafer and Ben Villines will supply late inning relief and closer by committee. Sophomore Ryan Kayoda has been impressive in the winter and has not only won a roster spot, but is in contention for crunch time innings and occasional starts.
In the infield, Cal State Fullerton signee Matt Chapman returns at short stop. He'll anchor what should be a strong defensive unit with incumbents Dan James and Daniel Conmy manning the corners. Last years opening day starting 3rd baseman Tim Alhanati returns from a broken ankle and slides over to 2nd base. Behind the plate is senior Sean Nearhoof and returning at DH is Sophomore Gavin Collins.
The outfield returns All Sea View league player Ryan Joyce in center with incumbent left fielder Nick Villar and Cal State Fullerton commit Mitchell Tolman in right.
As always, one of El Toro's strengths is their bench with James Meager, Devin Schaefers, Cole Tomlinson and Jayson Yano able to fill in at multiple positions as needed.
This year El Toro moves up to Division 1 and returns to the South Coast League where they'll battle Capistrano Valley, Tesoro, Dana Hills and San Clemente for the league title. Mixed in with league games is the Loara Tournament (March 4th - 12th) and the Anaheim Lions Tournament (April 2nd - 6th). Out of league games include double headers against Edison (California pre season #1) and Mission Viejo. Villa Park, Western, Yorba Linda, Esperanza and always tough Canyon round out the schedule. All told, 30 games over the next 2 months, then playoffs. For the complete schedule, click HERE.
One of the big changes this season is CIF mandating use of the new "BBCOR" approved bats. In order to promote safety, they're going away from the composite bats which supplied more "pop" and going towards metal which offer similar results as wood bats. Expect fewer home runs and more "small ball" manufacturing of runs.
Expectations are high as the Chargers have a competitive team and will be in the thick of things for the Southern Section title. Games kick off Friday with a 3pm start at home against Villa Park in game 1 of the Loara Tournament.
Let the games begin!
Bill
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