HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL / SEASON PREVIEW : NORTHEASTERN LEAGUE

Verdugo Hills

‘93 RECORD OVERALL LEAGUE 9-14 8-9

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COACH YEAR John Vera 3rd

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TOP RETURNEES YR POS James Flores Sr. RHP Eric Schmidt Sr. C Greg Martin Jr. CF David Bryant Sr. INF

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TOP NEWCOMERS YR POS Chris Portillo Sr. 2B Kevin McCormick Sr. LHP Jeff Martin So. C

OUTLOOK

Vera has guided Verdugo Hills--a league doormat before he took over--to 17 victories in two seasons. However, this season should prove to be his biggest challenge yet. With only three starters returning, Vera says, “I’ll need miracles.” The Dons last season finished second in league play behind Franklin, which is favored to repeat as champion. With so much inexperience, Vera has his work cut out for him. “It’s a battling team,” he said. “If they get together as a team, they could be good.” Vera is hoping Schmidt and Flores will provide the leadership the Dons need to be competitive.