CROSS RIVER, N.Y. - Last year, Coach Ted Lawrence admitted his team had the lowest batting average of his first three seasons. Still, the squad reached the sectional semifinals and put together a successful regular season. As always, any shortcomings at the plate can be offset on the mound — and that’s where Lawrence feels confident.
Seniors Jacob Storch, Jackson Moreo and Jack Garneau anchor the pitching staff. “They all have great command and throw a variety of pitches,” Lawrence said.
That said, the departure of eight seniors leaves some uncertainty. “We’re still figuring things out,” he added.
Lawrence does feel solid at third base. Amoga Bhat brings strong athleticism to the hot corner, something the coach partly attributes to the freshman’s basketball background. “They move their feet well, get to the slow rollers and position their body effectively,” Lawrence said.
He knows what he had in Will Civetta at third, but there is experience up the middle. Luke Fisch returns at second base, and when Storch isn’t pitching, he’ll slot in at shortstop.
In the outfield, there’s also a good deal of experience. Moreo will split time between pitching and center field, while Henrik Zhai is expected to see increased action in right.
At the plate, early signs are encouraging. “From what I see, we’re swinging the bat a little better,” Lawrence said.
Still, he’s keeping expectations measured. “You only know once you start playing,” he conceded.
As for goals, Lawrence keeps the focus simple while drawing on past success. His teams have consistently performed well come sectional time.
“We go through the season, we prepare, we find the right pieces,” he said. “We put players in positions where they can succeed and get better by the end of the year.”
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