Griffons have to overcome elements early in season

The baseball team has an extra obstacle to overcome this season.

The Griffons haven’t been able to get out on the diamond because of the cold temperatures and snow. They will go straight from the field house to the field for their first game. Head coach Buzz Verduzco is a little worried about being stuck inside all winter.

“We’re dying to get outside,” said Verduzco. “The first groundballs we take on grass will be during pre-game infield.”

When the Griffons do get out on the field they will look to shortstop Sam Walker to step up and be a big contributor. Walker hit .348 last season and drove in 46 runs while earning first team all-MIAA honors.

Second baseman Willie Forrest also figures to play a big role in the Griffons season. Forrest led the team in homeruns last year and got honorable mention all-MIAA honors. Verduzco likes his dynamic duo in the middle infield.

“It’s nice to have those two guys out there,” said Verduzco. “They can make a difference.” Western made it to the NCAA tournament for the first time last year despite struggling with pitching all year. The team’s ERA was 6.30 last season. Injuries hurt the pitching staff last year but the team thinks that pitching will be one of its strength this season.

“If we can avoid injuries we should be better,” said Verduzco. “We have a deeper staff this season.”

Newcomer Tommy Bone will take over at first base for the team this year. He is a good player who may be able to provide some more power to the Griffons lineup. New catcher Tim Reed can also make a difference when he steps into the batter’s box. The team looks to get solid offensive production this season.

The team has higher expectations after making the NCAA tournament for the first time in school history last season. Western wants to improve from last season and make a run at the tournament again this year.

“We want to live up to those expectations and we understand what it takes,” said Verduzco.

The team thinks they can live up to those higher standards if they can stay healthy and improve their pitching. The pitching staff has another season of experience under  their belt and should be better this year. If the Griffons can shake off the rust quickly this season they think they can get into the NCAA tournament for a second straight year.