Lineup changes lead to surge in Indians offense
Four-game winning streak generates optimism on Fairfield diamond.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
In recent weeks, as the Fairfield baseball team stumbled its way towards a 3-13 record, the coaching staff decided to shake up the starting lineup.
It promoted sophomore Cory Holt from junior varsity to start in center field, moved center fielder Brennan Croy (.338 batting average) to second base, second baseman Cody Hinson (.322) to third, and third baseman Dan Constable (.288) to designated hitter.
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Desperate times call for desperate measures. But after a four-game winning streak, these moves look more savvy than desperate.
The new-look Indians averaged 13 runs per game during the streak: two victories (12-0 and 15-4) over Middletown, followed by a 10-0 win over Sycamore and a 15-11 slugfest against Harrison.
This recent offensive explosion, coupled with what they believe to be a favorable tournament draw, has given the Indians (7-14, 4-12 Greater Miami Conference) a much brighter outlook entering the home stretch of the season.
"We're really excited about the tournament," shortstop Austin Ventling said. "We think we can win the first three games."
Fairfield, seeded ninth out of 11 teams in its sectional draw, plays at seventh-seeded Edgewood (15-9) Monday. The winner plays second-seeded Lakota East (14-8, 9-7 GMC). Two postseason wins could set up a sectional final matchup against third-seeded Mason (14-9, 11-5 GMC).
"We got a descent draw," coach Larry Price said. "We're opposite Hamilton and (Lakota) West."
In addition to the numerous defensive moves, the pitching staff has also been in flux.
Currently, former relief pitchers Alex Johnson (2-2, 3.25 ERA, 32 1/3 innings pitched) and Cody Riggs (3-2, 3.42 ERA, 30 2/3 innings pitched) are the two primary starting pitchers.
"They've been our 1-2 punch lately," Price said.
Sophomore Mitchell Durbin has emerged as the team's top hitter, boasting a .391 BA and a .450 on-base percentage. His nine doubles ranks second in the GMC.
Ventling, the three-hitter, has gotten hot lately and has his average up to .342.
"I feel like I can get a hit every time. I feel very confident," Ventling said. "I've been spraying the ball to all parts of the field."
