Scouting DuPage County baseball
Addison Trail
Coach: Paul Parpet (17th year).
Last year: 13-24, 5-13 (sixth) in the West Suburban Gold. Lost to Montini 5-3 in the Class AA Willowbrook regional final.
Top players: SS Nick Karakosta, jr.; P-OF Matt Turk, jr.; P-OF Matt Haas, so.; P-OF Jim Merritello, jr.; OF-P Costa Diamond, so.; 2B Bill Brannon, sr.; C Ismael DeLaCruz, so.; 3B-P Kevin Babica, so.; 1B Mike Colatorti, so.; P Nick Larsen, jr.; P Tim O'Connor, so.; OF Brian Norton, jr.; OF Nick Kamide, jr.
Outlook: With only two seniors on the roster and possibly seven sophomores contributing, the Blazers will need to play through their inexperience. The good news is that the sophomore class won last year's Gold freshman title. Combined with a solid junior class, this is a team to watch in the future -- perhaps even by the postseason. The top two pitchers, Turk and Haas, bring back only 28 varsity innings. Karakosta, an experienced shortstop who hit .286, returns along with Brennan at second base. Defensively, the Blazers will be solid up the middle. "With youth should come enthusiasm," Parpet said. "We'll get better as the season goes along."
Benet
Coach: Jeff Bonebrake (ninth year, 182-89).
Last year: 21-10, 12-6 (third) in the East Suburban Catholic Conference. Lost to WW South 4-1 in the Class AA Wheaton North regional final.
Top players: P-1B Bryan Roberts, sr.; OF-1B-P Pat Gelwicks, jr.; P John Boyle, jr.; SS Alex Staehely, jr.; 2B-3B Tim Lynch, sr.; 2B-3B Connor Reilly, so.; 2B-3B Andrew Jachna, fr.; P Adam Janssen, jr.; P Dan Finan, jr.; C Matt O'Rourke, jr.; C-OF Mike Vanchieri, jr.; OF Mike Chmielewski, jr.
Outlook: A mighty young Redwings squad will endure a brutal schedule that includes nonconference games against St. Charles North, Neuqua Valley, Brother Rice and St. Rita. They'll have one of the state's top pitchers in Illinois-bound Roberts, who won 7 games last year with 88 strikeouts. He also hit .297 with 26 RBI, while Gelwicks added a .309 average with 24 RBI. Not much else returns, although Staehely had 70 at-bats and Boyle saw the mound in seven games. Gelwicks, Janssen and Finan add to the rotation. "There are a lot of question marks," Bonebrake said. "I could see a lot of changes throughout the year."
Downers Grove North
Coach: Chad Isaacson (ninth year, 165-118).
Last year: 25-11, 11-7 (fourth) in the West Suburban Silver. Lost to WW South 5-0 in the Class AA Benet sectional semifinals.
Top players: P-SS Sean Flanagan, sr.; C A.J. DeMarco, sr.; P-3B Jim Kollker, sr.; OF Dan Sheppard, sr.; P-OF Scott Loman, sr.; 2B-SS Eric Jagielo, so.; OF-P Marco Diaz, jr.; 2B Jack Lowry, jr.; P Ian Long, jr.; 1B John Delaplane, sr.; 1B Dan Morrill, jr.
Outlook: With one of the area's top players in Iowa-bound Flanagan, the core looks pretty good. Last year he hit .373 with 6 homers and 38 RBI. After going 6-0 with a 1.65 ERA, Flanagan will be counted on even more on the mound. Kollker and Loman, who posted a 2.42 ERA in 35 innings, also figure into the Silver rotation. DeMarco, a stellar defensive catcher headed to the University of Toledo, brings back a .351 average and 20 RBI. A potent top five in the batting order will include Jagielo, a sophomore who will fit right into the lineup and provide a steady glove in the middle infield. "We've got a good core coming back," Isaacson said. "I think we'll be competitive."
Downers Grove South
Coach: Darren Orel (first year).
Last year: 27-9, 18-3 (first) in the West Suburban Gold. Lost to WW South 5-2 in the Class AA Benet sectional final.
Top players: SS-P Mike Wido, sr.; 1B Jared Culver, sr.; P Pat Lahey, sr.; 1B-DH Sean Enright, sr.; OF Billy Dillon, sr.; 2B Tyler Wivinis, sr.; P Joe Luft, sr.; OF Brian Korienek, sr.; P Greg Fox, jr.; 3B Anthony Fiorenzi, sr.; 3B Chandler Whitmer, so.; C Matt Davis, sr.; C Mike Birkner, jr.; OF Joey White, jr.; OF Tyler West, sr.
Outlook: Orel, a Thornwood and Elmhurst College product who coached the Mustangs sophomores the last five years, takes over for Phil Fox, who retired after 12 years at the helm. The team returns a solid group led by Wido, a third-year starter who hit .379 last year with 26 RBI. All-Area returner Culver hit .415 with 33 RBI. Enright drove in 37 runs and Dillon hit .394 with 20 RBI. The hitting's solid, but the pitching staff lost its top three starters. Although Lahey returns 3 wins and 36 innings, Wido and others need to pitch in for the Mustangs to challenge for a fourth straight Gold title. "It's a hard-working, committed group," Orel said.
Driscoll
Coach: Sean Bieterman (sixth year, 119-52).
Last year: 25-8, 10-4 (third) in the Suburban Catholic Conference. Lost to Glenbard East 15-2 in the Class AA Driscoll regional semifinals.
Top players: C Adam Davis, sr.; SS-P David Schwabe, sr.; P-1B Anthony Campanella, sr.; P Corey Eisenmann, sr.; OF Jim Vondruska, sr.; 1B-DH Kyle Sanders, sr.; 2B Rick Divito, jr.; P-OF Mark Doroba, sr.; IF-OF Gabe Tumlos, jr.; 3B-C Steve Schwabe, jr.; IF Alex Mills, jr.; P Anthony Milazzo, fr.; P Phil Bongiovanni, jr.; OF Pierre Washington Steele, so.
Outlook: Expect a bid for the Class 2A title. Illinois-bound Davis, who hit .526 with 7 homers, and St. Francis-bound Schwabe, who batted .491, are among the state's elite players. Driscoll graduated 15 wins, but Campanella returns a 6-1 record with a 3.21 ERA. Eisenmann helps form a good pitching tandem. Overcoming the hitting loss of Kevin Palermo, who did not come out for the team, and a thin lineup are the main challenges to climbing back atop the SCC. "We're not as deep as we need to be," Bieterman said, "but we have some guys who can step up."
Fenton
Coach: Sam Gallucci (second year at Fenton, 9-19; eighth year overall, 140-100).
Last year: 9-19, 6-9 (tied for second) in the Metro Suburban Conference. Lost to Hinsdale South 7-0 in the Class AA Driscoll regional quarterfinals.
Top players: P-1B Billy Gratzl, sr.; P-C Corey Tangen, sr.; P-SS Edgar Chaidez, sr.; P-2B Mike Siemers, sr.; OF T.J. Summers, sr.; C Aiden Deirmenjian, jr.; P-1B Cody Cannon, jr.; P-OF Sean O'Connell, jr.; P-C Tylar Rodriguez, sr.; 3B Kevin Tannhauser, sr.; OF Brandon Moriarty, sr.; P-SS Matt Heim, jr.; P-3B D.J. Anderson, jr.; P-SS Tom Van Jacobs, sr.; 1B Lou Depa, sr.; 1B Brandon Woodlock, sr.
Outlook: This may be the season the Bison claim their first conference title since 1956. With a deep senior class, it'll be a group led by experience. Summers and Siemers, who returns a .337 average, fill the heart of the order. Chaidez and Deirmenjian will spark the top. Despite graduating over 100 innings, the Bison still boast mound experience with Gratzl, who had a 2.45 ERA, Tangen and Chaidez. "The seniors are going to carry us, but there are some talented juniors," Gallucci said.
Glenbard East
Coach: Nick Scipione (second year, 14-15).
Last year: 14-15, 9-12 (tied for fifth) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Downers North 2-1 in the Class AA Driscoll regional final.
Top players: P Billy Buchdahl, sr.; C Steve Dujka, sr.; 1B-P Eric Knol, sr.; OF Keegan Knoll, sr.; C-OF Scott Klepetka, jr.; P-1B Andrew Edwards, jr.; P-3B Nick Hogan, jr.; SS-2B Eric Zwintscher, jr.; OF Brandon Spinner, sr.; IF Jeremy Juhl, jr.
Outlook: A thin roster and key injuries leave the Rams with some questions heading into the season. Spinner and Zwintscher will be out for extended time, meaning inexperienced players need to step up. The Rams graduated the bulk of their pitching staff, although Buchdahl returns after pitching 16 innings as a junior. Look for Knol, Edwards and Hogan to anchor the remaining spots in a rotation of ground ball pitchers. Knoll will spark the lineup from the top after batting .307 last year. Dujka, the cleanup hitter, was second on the team with 3 homers and 17 RBI. "There will be days when these guys will look awesome," Scipione said. "They have to want it."
Glenbard North
Coach: Mike Franzen (13th year, 189-196).
Last year: 17-13, 12-9 (tied for second) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Hersey 12-11 in the Class AA Elk Grove regional semifinals.
Top players: C Alex Mullendore, sr.; P-SS Austin Safranski, sr.; OF Evan Watkins, jr.; OF Carl Gerrick, sr.; OF Justin Wahrman, sr.; 1B Darrik Gramann, sr.; P Mike Zoellner, sr.; P-SS Steve Cocat, jr.; 2B Tyler Doll, jr.; 3B-P Steve Slobodecki, jr.; 3B-P Steve Friedberg, jr.; P Zachary Zaranko, jr.
Outlook: The Panthers hope to ride the wave from a summer run to the Elite Eight. While they'll lean on a talented junior class, several seniors will be counted on led by Mullendore behind the plate and Safranski, who went 5-2 with a 1.90 ERA, on the mound. The Panthers posted a 2.21 team ERA by yielding only 68 walks. Cocat, Zoellner and Zaranko aim to keep up that kind of control. The Panthers don't return much at the plate, although Mullendore batted .320. Watkins and Friedberg should add some pop. A run at the DVC title is the goal. "We're not going to score a lot of runs," Franzen said, "but I like our chances."
Glenbard South
Coach: Mike Riley (ninth year, 159-118; 22nd year overall, 396-296).
Last year: 21-14, 12-9 (tied for third) in the Western Sun Conference. Lost to Downers South 7-0 in the Class AA Downers South regional final.
Top players: C Joe Biagini, sr.; P-1B Andy Manson, sr.; OF Will Hill, sr.; P-1B David Suffern, jr.; 2B Chase Donald, jr.; DH Franz Merkendorfer, sr.; OF-3B Doug Anderson, sr.; P-OF Tony Scotellaro, jr.; 3B-P Joe Ramirez, jr.; OF Sterling Smith, jr.
Outlook: The Raiders' two-year conference title streak ended last year, but with Manson and Suffern leading the pitching staff they hope to challenge Batavia in the WSC. Manson went 6-3 with a 1.64 ERA last year while Suffern added 2 wins as a sophomore. Biagini, who hit .379 with 4 homers and 29 RBI, is also one of the area's top defensive catchers. Strength up the middle continues with Hill, the leadoff man, in center field. The possibility of an all-junior infield will test the defense, but Manson and Suffern should match anyone in the WSC. The key is how the offense emerges. "We're optimistic," Riley said, "but we've got some weaknesses we have to overcome."
Glenbard West
Coach: Brian Wojtun (third year, 34-34; fifth year overall, 110-67).
Last year: 13-21, 6-12 (sixth) in the West Suburban Silver. Lost to Benet 3-2 in the Class AA Wheaton North regional semifinals.
Top players: OF J.D. Macleary, sr.; P-OF Roger Pope, sr.; 1B-3B-P Bryan Emmanuel, jr.; P Blake O'Brien, jr.; C Joey Wheeler, jr.; SS Jesse Condie, jr.; OF Craig Anderson, so.; 2B Steve Lindquist, jr.; P Dave Martz, jr.
Outlook: As many as six juniors and a sophomore could start for the Hilltoppers, so getting the inexperienced lineup up to varsity speed is the top goal. While the batting order has potential with Emmanuel, who hit .286 last year, and Macleary, who hit .326, offensive success will be driven by the strength of team speed. Matching the Silver pitching staffs of Oak Park and Lyons Twp. is never easy, but Pope will be the Hilltoppers' lead after notching 4 wins with a 3.30 ERA in 57 innings. O'Brien also won three games as a sophomore. With Martz returning after a late-season call-up last year, Glenbard West returns 9 of its 13 wins. "We'll need to take advantage of our athleticism," Wojtun said.
Hinsdale Central
Coach: Tom Dorrance (ninth year, 163-114).
Last year: 14-19, 8-10 (fifth) in the West Suburban Silver. Lost to Downers South 17-7 in the Class AA Downers South regional semifinals.
Top players: P Garrett Cook, sr.; OF Jared White, sr.; 1B Rich Brennan, sr.; P Matt Murray, sr.; IF-P Jason McClain, jr.; OF Billy Auriemma, sr.; OF Connor Marrero, sr.; P-OF Robbie Bellusci, jr.; P-DH David Kiyosaki, jr.; 2B Brock Piche, sr.; P-3B Ryan Murphy, sr.; P-1B Charlie Herr, jr.; P-OF John Duffy, jr.; IF Matt Meyer, sr.; OF Phil Hurst, jr.; C Grant Slesser, sr.
Outlook: The Red Devils look to thrive with talent from a deep roster. They return White, who drove in 17 runs last year, and Brennan, who batted .417 with 19 RBI. Sparked at the top by speedy Marrero and Piche, and backed with some punch from Kiyosaki, the Red Devils should hit. While there is no definitive No. 1 pitcher, Cook returns 30 innings and Murray also has some experience. Kiyosaki's unable to pitch now because of injury but could be ready to contribute greatly for a playoff run. "If our guys play well, we can compete with anyone," Dorrance said.
Hinsdale South
Coach: Kraig Conyer (third year, 33-40).
Last year: 14-21, 7-11 (tied for fourth) in the West Suburban Gold. Lost to Downers North 14-3 in the Class AA Driscoll regional semifinals.
Top players: SS Carl Fiebig, sr.; P Ryan Zenger, sr.; P Joe Begel, jr.; 3B John Balzano, sr.; 2B-P Connor Duckhorn, jr.; OF Gary Mayberry, sr.; OF Danny Miller, sr.; 1B-3B Connor Schomig, jr.; OF Mike DiCostanzo, sr.; P Nick Bryant, sr.; 1B Matt Schwarz, sr.; C Matt Prosia, sr.; C-P Alex Perez, jr.; OF-P Rob Folkerts, jr.
Outlook: The motivation of last summer's Elite Eight run will continue this spring. Six starters return in addition to the three top pitchers. The trio of Zenger, Begel and Duckhorn combined for 9 wins and 150 innings. The top four in the batting order return as well, with the standout being Fiebig. The Villanova-bound third-year starter, who will hit third, batted .312 with 22 RBI. Miller and Mayberry also return .300 batting averages to the top of the lineup, while Duckhorn brings power to the heart of it. A Gold title and beyond is the goal. "We have so many guys who can contribute," Conyer said.
Immaculate Conception
Coach: Dan Holleman (second year, 9-18).
Last year: 9-18, 4-10 (sixth) in the Suburban Catholic Conference. Lost to Westmont 10-0 in the Class A Immaculate Conception regional final.
Top players: 2B Bobby Perrone, sr.; OF Frank Carpanzano, sr.; IF-OF Jack Dempsey, sr.; P-IF Dan Muisenga, jr.; 1B-C-P Matt Purdom, jr.; OF Paul Hornstra, jr.; SS-P Matt McMahon, so.; P Will Cronin, so.; C Steve Gilbert, jr.; P Rob Peachey, jr.; C-P Jose Godinez, fr.; OF Carlos Rodriguez, so.
Outlook: Only one starter graduated, so hopes are high for the Knights -- especially in the Class 1A playoffs. The entire rotation returns headed by Muisenga, a third-year starter, and Cronin, who had 4 wins and a 1.37 ERA as a freshman. A better contact team aims to reduce last year's 159 strikeouts. The top four run producers return, including Muisenga and Purdom in the middle of the lineup. Godinez and Rodriguez will contribute right away. Godinez is developing into a gem behind the plate and could become the closer. "With our experience on the mound, I think we'll definitely improve," Holleman said.
Lake Park
Coach: Dan Colucci (10th year, 180-141).
Last year: 22-14, 17-8 (tied for third) in the Upstate Eight Conference. Lost to Prospect 4-3 in the Class AA Prospect regional final.
Top players: C Mario Fearon, sr.; OF-P Vito LaPorta, sr.; 3B Mike Ostrowski, sr.; OF Matt Kennedy, sr.; P Ryan Overton, sr.; OF-P Ryan Wegner, sr.; SS Bobby Gunnells, sr.; 2B Bryan Woods, sr.; P-SS Peter Spear, so.; C-OF Brian Norwood, jr.; P Brian Konecke, so.; P Matt Hammesfahr, jr.
Outlook: Graduating three all-UEC players hurts, but the Lancers still have crucial experience from 14 seniors as they make a run at the UEC powers. Fearon returns 15 RBI while Kennedy batted .320 last year. LaPorta, coming off an injury, and Ostrowski are being counted on as well. The pitching staff is young -- Spear and Konecke could be starting as sophomores. Both represent future cornerstones in the program. Overton went 3-0 last year and Hammesfahr had a near-2.00 ERA. Improved defense and overall solid play will carry the Lancers. "We're just going to have to play good fundamental baseball," Colucci said.
Lisle
Coach: Pete Meyer (first year).
Last year: 22-12, 8-8 (third) in the Interstate Eight Conference North Division. Lost to Walther Lutheran 5-1 in the Class A Lisle sectional semifinals.
Top players: P-OF Billy Potter, sr.; P-1B-OF Jordan Jayne, sr.; P-3B Jon Surber, so.; SS Ryne McGovern, jr.; 1B-OF Lee Gorski, jr.; 1B-P Jon Kolosky, so.; OF Alec Blechschmidt, so.; 2B-OF Greg Payne, jr.; C-OF Will DeCraene, fr.; P-IF-OF Jay Osika, jr.; OF Jeff Seiffert, jr.; P-IF Scotty Mowery, jr.; C Johnny Welch, jr.; 2B Timmy Smith, sr.; OF Kohl Peters, sr.
Outlook: Meyer, a longtime assistant in the program, takes the helm of a team rebuilding from the loss of six starters. The return of three experienced pitchers and a trio of third-year varsity members, however, is a major reason why Lisle plans to contend for the IEC North title. Surber, one of the state's elite sophomores, Potter and Jayne bring back 115 innings and 13 wins. Surber went 6-3 with a 1.73 ERA. The lineup's less certain, although Potter batted .424 with 23 RBI and Jayne hit .371. Osika, McGovern and Surber bring depth. "We'll go as far as our pitching will take us," Meyer said.
Montini
Coach: Bill Leeberg (30th year, 664-247).
Last year: 23-6, 14-0 (first) in the Suburban Catholic Conference. Lost to Downers South 5-4 in the Class AA Benet sectional semifinals.
Top players: P-2B Andrew Brauer, sr.; OF-P Tom DiCristina, jr.; C Nick Malecki, sr.; 1B-OF Chris Briggs, sr.; SS Brian Glennon, sr.; P-OF Colin Meister, jr.; 3B-2B Jeff Spokas, jr.; P Carl Meister, jr.; P Trace Headrick, jr.; P-3B Pat Kulczycki, sr.; P-3B Tom Kurtz, jr.; P Sean Keeley, jr.; 2B Kevin Glennon, jr.; P-OF Matt Beuke, sr.
Outlook: The loss of four-year starters Pete Cappetta and Joe Crotty obviously hurts. Only Brauer and Colin Meister bring back any varsity pitching experience, but the lineup is strong. Brauer batted .420 with 6 homers and 29 RBI in an All-Area junior season. Briggs is also a power threat after hitting .400 with 4 homers and 29 RBI. DiCristina added a .360 average. If the Broncos can build a pitching staff among the Meisters and a slew of juniors, they'll put up a tough defense of their SCC title and be a Class 3A threat. "I think we'll hit the ball," Leeberg said. "It all comes down to our pitching."
Naperville Central
Coach: Bill Seiple (27th year, 607-302).
Last year: 18-18, 9-12 (tied for fifth) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Neuqua Valley in the Class AA Neuqua Valley sectional final.
Top players: C John Holm, sr.; P-DH Pat Kaminska, jr.; P Andy Pucher, sr.; 1B-3B Anthony Lopez, jr.; SS-P Marc Mantucca, so.; P-DH Clint Woods, jr.; P Dave Ludwig, jr.; 2B Matt Soria, so.; 3B Mike Oles, jr.; OF Sean Garbarino, sr.; OF Jimmy McInerney, sr.; OF Eric Demtschenko, jr.; 1B Nick Linne, so.; P Dan Griffin, sr.
Outlook: After batting .254 last season, it's no secret where the focus lies. The Redhawks return their top hitter in Holm who, after hitting .292 with 17 RBI, will move from first base to catcher. The sophomores -- Mantucca, Soria and Linne -- also will key the offense and figure greatly in an improved defense along with infielders Lopez and Oles. The Redhawks boast a clear No. 1 pitcher in Kaminska, a third-year varsity member who returns 4 wins and a 2.76 ERA. Four or five others could contribute in the rotation. "It's by far the youngest team we've ever put on the field," Seiple said.
Naperville North
Coach: Carl Hunckler (19th year, 362-216; 20th year overall, 387-224).
Last year: 22-11, 15-6 (first) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Naperville Central 11-9 in the Class AA Naperville Central regional final.
Top players: P Jake Naumann, jr.; C-P Mike Nodzenski, sr.; 2B Jordan Tassio, sr.; OF Ben Kelsey, sr.; OF Elliot Ganet, sr.; SS-P Derek Locascio, sr.; SS-P Aaron Augustyniak, sr.; P-1B Matt Manade, jr.
Outlook: The Huskies claimed last year's DVC title behind Naumann's 8-2 record and 2.14 ERA as a sophomore. They'll try to ride their ace again this year. He'll be the lone experienced member of a deep pitching staff high on potential. The Huskies saw some positives in the fine summer on the mound enjoyed by Locascio and Augustyniak. There's strength in numbers as 10 pitchers are working to make an impact. Even Nodzenski could contribute. The lineup should be strong in the middle. Tassio, who hit .340 with 3 homers and 21 RBI, has plenty of power. Nodzenski hit .375 with 25 RBI. "We're going to be in the mix if a couple of guys step up in key spots," Hunckler said.
Neuqua Valley
Coach: Robin Renner (tenth year, 210-121).
Last year: 35-8, 20-5 (second) in the Upstate Eight Conference. Beat New Trier 5-1 in the Class AA state championship game.
Top players: P-OF Ian Krol, jr.; C-P Geoff Rowan, sr.; P Mike McKinley, jr.; OF-P Chris Kruppe, sr.; SS Travis Weldon, sr.; OF Jordan Williamson, jr.; P-OF Jason David, sr.; 2B Ken Vrtis, sr.; 3B Hunter Pruitt, sr.; 1B Brian McNabb, sr.; 1B Kyle Kalkofen, sr.; 1B Bryan Berryman, sr.; P Chris Widup, jr.; P Craig Provow, jr.; P Rob Skowronski, jr.; P-C Dan Oleskowicz, jr.; 3B Jeff Dean, jr.; OF Kyle Mener, jr.; C Alex Lincoln, jr.; P Drew Sutton, jr.
Outlook: The Wildcats will put up a stiff state title defense. Krol, the state's top-rated junior by the Prep Baseball Report, McKinley, Rowan and David went 26-3 last year. Krol had a 1.13 ERA, McKinley's was 1.31 and Rowan's stood at 2.26. The lineup took a hit to graduation, but Rowan batted .347 with 8 homers and 36 RBI. Williamson, Kruppe, Weldon and Berryman plan to keep the offense going strong. "We have to go about business the way we always have," Renner said.
St. Francis
Coach: Rich Janor (fifth year, 86-52).
Last year: 17-14, 7-7 (fourth) in the Suburban Catholic Conference. Lost to Glenbard West 8-4 in the Class AA Wheaton North regional quarterfinals.
Top players: 3B-P Michelangelo Consiglio, jr.; SS Ryan Snyder, sr.; 1B-P Dean Quaranta, so.; C Griffin Paulson, sr.; OF-P Trent Anderson, sr.; P Andrew Zettinger, sr.; DH-C Jason Lombardi, jr.; 2B-P Mike Pugliese, so.; P Matt Massa, jr.; P Zach Clark, so.; IF-OF Jeff Reckards, jr.; IF-P Casey Riggen, jr.; OF Matt Malak, sr.; OF Ben Stefely, sr.
Outlook: Don't be confused by the list of juniors and sophomores. The Spartans have the talent and experience to compete in the SCC and the Class 3A playoffs. Consiglio, who hit .367 with 21 RBI last year, and Snyder, who hit .372, anchor the left side of a good defensive infield that also features sophomores Pugliese, who will lead off, and Quaranta, who hit .340. The fine defense continues with Paulson, who caught every game last year. Pitching is a question mark, although Anderson and Zettinger combined for 52 innings. "We definitely have the tools to be successful," Janor said.
Timothy Christian
Coach: Jim Snoeyink (27th year).
Last year: 18-10, 10-6 (tied for third) in the Private School League. Lost to Walther Lutheran 1-0 in the Class A Lisle sectional final.
Top players: 1B-P-OF Peter Tameling, jr.; P-OF-C Mike Marshall, sr.; SS-P Andrew Woodhull, jr.; P-3B Nate Tameling, so.; P-SS Jonathon VanByssum, so.; P-1B-OF Taylor Slager, jr.; C-3B Josh Hjelmgren, jr.; 2B Thomas Huiner, jr.; 2B Adam Bulthuis, jr.; OF Kyle Venhousen, jr.; OF Jeff Hayley, sr.; OF Dane VanRekan, jr.; OF Robert White, jr.
Outlook: With only two seniors on the roster, there's no doubt the Trojans must embrace their youth. The good news is three of the juniors -- Peter Tameling, Woodhull and White -- were on varsity as sophomores. Tameling went 4-0 with a 1.71 ERA and will spark the top of the batting order along with Slager. Marshall, who hit .364, anchors the lineup and will be a key rotation member despite only 8 innings of experience. A deep staff will emerge, with sophomores Nate Tameling and VanByssum expected to develop quickly. "It'll be a bit of a rebuilding process," Snoeyink said.
Waubonsie Valley
Coach: Dan Fezzuoglio (eighth year, 151-102).
Last year: 10-25, 7-18 (tied for 10th) in the Upstate Eight Conference. Lost to Geneva 3-1 in the Class AA Waubonsie Valley regional semifinals.
Top players: OF Brad Custer, sr.; P Ryan Servos, sr.; OF-P Chris Galovic, sr.; OF-P Pat Murphy, sr.; 3B Jeff Modlinski, sr.; P Russell Schofield, sr.; P Adam Leroy, sr.; C Zac Volland, sr.; SS-P Johnny Strauss, jr.; OF-P Kevin Kirchner, jr.; OF Trevor Romeo, jr.; 2B Bryan Fekety, sr.; P Keith Harris, sr.; P-1B Ryne Gill, jr.; P Matt Brancheau, jr.; OF Wes Macomber, sr.; OF-P Dan Walker, jr.
Outlook: The Warriors have one of the area's deepest pitching staffs -- more than 175 innings return. Servos had 4 wins and a 2.15 ERA. He'll continue in the ace role in front of Murphy, Schofield, Leroy, Galovic and others. The top four of the lineup is solid, starting at leadoff with Custer, his .336 average and 21 RBI from last season. Keep an eye on Strauss and Modlinski, who hit .288. If the Warriors can avoid injuries in the field, they'll vault in the UEC standings. "I think we can see a lot of improvement this season," Fezzuoglio said.
West Chicago
Coach: John Walters (ninth year, 128-150).
Last year: 13-18, 8-13 (tied for seventh) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Montini 5-2 in the Class AA Willowbrook regional semifinals.
Top players: SS Barrett Serrato, sr.; OF-P James Eckler, sr.; P-OF Trevor Bodie, jr.; C Dave Sampiller, sr.; P Matt Andracki, sr.; P-1B Matt Youngwith, sr.; 2B Mike Sedjo, sr.; OF Ethan Burau, jr.; OF Tyler Christ, jr.; P Jordan Long, jr.; P Jake Venchus, sr.
Outlook: Purdue-bound Serrato, a third-year starter, is a great start. The sweet-fielding shortstop hit .354 with 15 RBI last year and aims to lead off for the Wildcats, who boast experience behind him in the lineup with Eckler and Sampiller. A defensively stoic group will aid a pitching staff that took a hit when Aaron Kennedy was lost with an arm injury. Bodie, Andracki, Youngwith and Venchus, however, return nearly 90 innings. Eckler also will be in the mound mix. Inexperienced players stepping up, especially at the plate, will bolster the Wildcats' success. "We're a blue-collar team," Walters said. "We're not going to give up, we're not going to give in."
Wheaton Academy
Coach: Willie Bosque (first year).
Last year: 12-15, 8-8 (sixth) in the Private School League. Lost to Hinsdale Central 8-7 in the Class AA Downers South regional quarterfinals.
Top players: SS-P Mike Puccinelli, sr.; 2B Ryan Dzingel, so.; P-OF Eric Albaugh, jr.; P-1B John Lace, so.; P-1B Sterling Witt, jr.; 3B Will Thrasher, sr.; P-OF Dan Schmitz, jr.; P-1B Paul Werkema, sr.
Outlook: Bosque, an associate athletic director at Wheaton Academy, takes over the program after a playing career at the University of Miami and an assistant and head-coaching tenure at NAIA Tennessee Wesleyan College. The Warriors return much of last year's team, including Puccinelli and Witt, who hit .318. Lace also will be a key hitter in the heart of the order, but he'll mainly be relied upon as a leader on the mound. As a freshman he went 4-1 with a 2.29 ERA. Witt, Albaugh and Puccinelli are among nine quality arms. An improved defense is a top goal for an athletic group hoping to make a move in the PSL. "They're good athletes and good baseball players," Bosque said. "But we'll only be as good as they're willing to work."
Wheaton North
Coach: Dan Schoessling (eighth year, 116-128; 11th year overall, 154-157).
Last year: 19-16, 12-9 (tied for second) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to WW South 13-3 in the Class AA Wheaton North regional semifinals.
Top players: C Ryan Javech, sr.; SS Brett Kirchhofer, sr.; 1B-3B-P Trey Martin, jr.; 3B-OF Wade Cervenka, jr.; OF-P Jack Deano, jr.; P Mark Zahery, sr.; OF Matt Palackdharry, sr.; OF-DH Ben Lettenberger, sr.; P-1B Travis Otto, sr.; 2B Luke Thorpe, sr.; P Ryan Thompson, sr.; OF Bob Munro, sr.; P-OF Aric Dama, jr.; 2B Burk Lewis, jr.; OF Jack Quinn, jr.
Outlook: The Falcons' run at the DVC title starts on the mound. Deano emerged as a key contributor as a sophomore, notching a 4-1 record with a 1.63 ERA. He also batted .400 with 10 doubles and 19 RBI. Zahery and Martin back up the rotation along with many other quality pitchers. The lineup is just as solid with Deano returning as one of the area's top leadoff men. Cervenka hit .341 with 4 homers and 22 RBI. Javech hit .330. Martin and Lettenberger add to the potent mix. "We should be in every game because of our pitching," Schoessling said.
Wheaton Warrenville South
Coach: Tim Brylka (first year).
Last year: 19-14, 11-10 (fourth) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Neuqua Valley 4-2 in the Class AA North Central College supersectional.
Top players: P-3B Nick Brown, sr.; P-1B-OF Dustin Quattrocchi, sr.; 3B-1B-P Nick Egan, sr.; 2B Tom Marsh, sr.; SS Mike Piatkowski, sr.; OF Mike Olp, jr.; C-OF Matt Glawe, sr.; P-1B Ariel Rodriguez, sr.; P Robert Grabek, jr.; P Ryan Conley, jr.
Outlook: The Tigers will build upon the school's first sectional title, won last year, led by Iowa-bound Brown, the reigning DVC player of the year, and first-year coach Brylka, a former standout at WW South who previously coached the sophomores. Brown hit .472 with 4 homers and 20 RBI last year and went 6-4 with a 2.08 ERA and 84 strikeouts. Quattrochi added a 3-1 record and 1.39 ERA. The pitching depth continues with Rodriguez, who threw well last year. The key will be at the plate where, beyond Brown, little punch returns. Marsh, who hit .315, is a good fit near the top. Ohio-bound Egan also looks to emerge for a DVC title run. "It's a very competitive group," Brylka said. "We'll find out what we're made of."
Willowbrook
Coach: Steve Gilliam (ninth year, 140-138).
Last year: 25-8, 14-4 (second) in the West Suburban Gold. Lost to Addison Trail 8-3 in the Class AA Willowbrook regional semifinals.
Top players: C Dean Whiteside, sr.; 3B Chris Savas, jr.; 1B-DH Brian Hennig, sr.; P-SS Andy Bejlovec, sr.; OF Dave McKendrick, sr.; OF Jay Garneau, sr.; P Nick Cuzzone, jr.; 2B-P Andy Wilhoit, sr.; OF Jordan Grevis, sr.; OF Matt Freke, sr.
Outlook: Despite graduating their three top pitchers, the Warriors still boast a good one-two punch -- despite their lack of varsity experience -- with Bejlovec and Cuzzone. With 10 pitchers in the mix, the team certainly won't lack in depth. The core of the batting order's pretty tough, headed by Savas. As a sophomore he hit .369 with 4 homers and 33 RBI. Whiteside, entering his fourth varsity season, has been a cornerstone behind the plate. He hit .313 last year. From Hennig, returning a .337 average and 17 RBI, on down, the hitting should be consistent. "We'll be able to hit with anyone in the league," Gilliam said. "Starting pitching will dictate the success of the team."
York
Coach: Phil Bodine (third year, 34-36; 18th year overall, 368-215).
Last year: 22-14, 12-6 (third) in the West Suburban Silver. Lost to Glenbard South 5-4 in the Class AA Downers South regional semifinals.
Top players: SS Luke Regole, sr.; DH-1B Marcus Boozell, sr.; 2B Chris Fisher, sr.; P Jon Brogan, sr.; OF Joe Mellone, sr.; OF Brian Sloan, sr.; C Andrew Johnson, jr.; OF Tom Judge, jr.; 3B-P Steve Adkins, so.; P Steve Ganser, sr.; 1B-P Shay Wagner, jr.; P Anthony Clarke, sr.; OF Jeff Nowak, jr.; P Tyler Sill, jr.; P Dan Murphy, jr.
Outlook: The Dukes hung tough in the Silver last year and plan to do so again despite graduating three starting pitchers and a good chunk of their lineup. Regole returns for a third season after batting .322 with 26 RBI last year. He's backed by Boozell, who led the team with 36 RBI and 3 homers while hitting .330. Mellone and Johnson, a defensive ace behind the plate, set the table at the top. The pitching staff is a little more cloudy after Brogan, who went 3-0 in 23 innings. Adkins, Ganser and others will be relied upon to step up. "We have some young kids who are good players," Bodine said.