The ReSporter will now attempt to put a Spotlight on who might be that player that could help get this Hawk team to the playoffs this coming season.
Once again, there might be a change of strategy, as stated in a previous article, on how many different skill sets is required with baseball.
The ReSporter would like to name three Spotlights based on three different aspects or ingredients needed to attempt in having a solid ball club.
As mentioned previously, a team could have the best pitcher in district but that would not matter if that team could not produce at the plate offensively or in a fielders case, can’t get those three outs needed.
So our three players to put a spotlight on will revolve around 1) Defense, 2) Offense and 3) Pitching.
DEFENSE:
Many baseball experts will always mention being strong up the middle is a key for having a good defensive unit.
The ReSporter would like to throw this spotlight on T. J. Jones.
Jones has been leading the troops these past two years and will now go into his senior season with a boat load of confidence.
Jones has been holding down 2nd base and stats are not as forthcoming, but other coaches from district have mentioned of how they admire this young man in the field.
In fact, Jones made First Team All-District 2nd Baseman and that was not based on his bat but his glove.
This is not to throw water on his batting but The ReSporter also feels Jones might start getting more at bats this coming season.
When asked during this year’s end of year banquet for Jones to stand by Coach Dunavant it was evident that this soon to be Senior has started his growth spurt and that gives more chances to see Jones being able to contribute in more areas besides just fielding.
Other players that The ReSporter gave consideration to was J. J. Nance.
Nance made All-District First Team in the outfield. This award just says outfield but Nance was the right fielder and he might be making a case for having an opportunity to play centerfield next year.
That would certainly put a spotlight on Nance as that position can save a lot of runs in a contest by having to chase down balls in a lot of real-estate.
How bout Peyton Sipila, who showed up and contributed in a big way in the infield. Sipila was recognized by the Hawks as best defensive player.
J. J. Nance at the Plate
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