Upper Merion Baseball Preview

Team:  Upper Merion Vikings

Head Coach: Jason Darnell (4th year)

Assistant coaches: Ryan Albright, Tony Funsten, Brian Diehl, Matt Mitchell

Last year’s record: 10-9 overall, 10-8 SOL American, first round loss in AAA District Tournament

Notable losses: Ray Gambone, LHP/OF (Wilmington University), Kyle Gaffney, OF (MCCC), Justin Cunnane, P

Key returners: Peter Lopez (Senior P/IF), John DelCollo (Senior P/IF), Chris Loschiavo (Senior IF), Mike Shannon (Senior 3B)

Others to watch: Dalton Armenti (Senior OF/C), Brian Rhindress (Senior P/OF), Hunter Saunders (Junior P) Mike Greenwood (Junior C), Bobby Landmesser (Junior CF)

Strengths: Our strongest asset is our defense. I feel confident that we will minimize mistakes and maximize our chances to win with smart and aggressive defense. Our pitching staff is strong, anchored by three seniors—replacing Ray Gambone is no small task, but I feel that our rotation overall is poised to be successful.

Question Marks: We have already seen some nagging injuries in our pitching staff, and we hope that trend does not continue throughout season.

Outlook: Once again, the Vikings are led by nine seniors—all of whom exemplify positive leadership. Our goals, as always, are simple: have fun, work hard, play well, and win another District Title. Team chemistry is high, and our group is determined and focused. We feel confident that we can compete in the SOL American Conference.

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