Clarkston’s baseball team lost some of its top players after a district championship 21-13 season in 2006, but coach Phil Price is confident in the Wolves? returning starters and its younger players.
‘We’re going to be scrappy and I like what I see so far. The kids are working hard and I think we’re going to be able to compete with anybody,? Price said.
Clarkston will miss the services of Mike Kittle who now plays for the University of Michigan as well as Steve Vanderheyden, Dave Brelinski and Steve McIssac from the district champion squad of a year ago.
Josh Hall, who recently signed to play for Kalamazoo Valley Community College, will be the team’s ace on the mound, Price said.
‘He’s a small guy, but he can throw hard. He has control and he’s a complete pitcher, not just a thrower.?
Hall is one of many versatile players on the team, and will be an everyday player when he is off the mound.
‘We’ve got a lot of kids who can do a lot of different things for us,? Price said.
‘We’re going to have guys rotating to a lot of different positions because we have a lot more athletes pitching.?
The Wolves left-handed pitching should keep opponents off guard, Price said. Clarkston brings four southpaws with (juniors) Kyle Topham, Joel Lange, Brian Phillips and senior Josh Lawrence.
‘Hopefully that will help us control base-runners. You don’t see a lot lefties in high school,? Price said.
Drew Howard, another college signee (St. Clair Community College), is expected to continue his solid play at first base and providing some pop in the batting order, Price said.
Eric Ogg, another return player, should lead the Wolves offensively.
‘He makes tings happen with his legs. He could get walked, steal two bases and score on a ground ball,? Price said.
Colton Tweed, beginning his third season this year, will start behind the plate and Joey Preston is expected to challenge for the No. 1 spot behind the senior.
The Wolves? home opener is Wednesday against Birmingham Groves at 4 p.m. Check www.highschoolsports.net for Clarkston’s schedule and stay posted with The Clarkston News for the latest results throughout the season.