'U' can do just about anything

Maine West baseball coach Joe Pederson is not afraid to take a U-turn with his lineup card.

Pederson lists senior Lucas Udischas' position on the Warriors' roster with a "U." Udischas can and might play almost everywhere this season.

"He wears a lot of hats on our club," Pederson said. "He does whatever we ask him to do. He's very unselfish."

Udischas was the Warriors' starting catcher as a sophomore and part of last year before Justin Johann took over. Udischas ended last season playing first base, but can also play third and the outfield.

Pederson also plans to use Udischas as his closer and could even play him at shortstop if needed. He's also hitting third in the lineup.

"He does it all," Pederson said. "He's kind of our Mark DeRosa (ex-Cubs and current Indians utilityman)."

Dan's the man: Palatine coach Paul Belo likes what he's seen from senior right-hander Dan Huenecke, who is headed to Division I Belmont University.

Belo said pitching against higher-level competition and having more experience around him will be a big difference.

"He's showed great command and great poise," Belo said. "He's real solid, real composed and really a different kid.

"He's more relaxed, especially with the kids we have returning."

Teddy's ready: Senior Teddy Metzger was one of the most consistent players for the Rolling Meadows basketball team this winter. Baseball coach Jim Lindeman expects to get similar results from his shortstop and No. 2 pitcher.

"He looks pretty smooth at shortstop," Lindeman said. "I'm looking forward to him having a big year on the mound and he had a really good summer in (American) Legion (with Arlington)."

Lindeman also expects Metzger, pitcher-first baseman Jon Carlson and second baseman Dan Lauria to provide leadership through their actions on the field.

"We have a lot of guys who enjoy the game and are going to come out and work hard," Lindeman said.

Off the mark: During its spring trip to the Springfield area, the Hersey baseball team visited with secretary of state Jesse White at the state capitol. A Saturday story had them visiting with Gov. Quinn.

Repeat feat reaches 50: This year is the 50th anniversary of one of the most impressive feats in IHSA history. Maine Township's teams in 1958 and 1959 are still the only ones to win back-to-back baseball championships.