Soliz Won’t Let Defense Rest as Rio Mesa Rallies

David Soliz knows full well the proud tradition of Rio Mesa baseball. He’s been part of it much of his life.

That’s why it was difficult for the first-year Spartan coach to deal with a string of losses early in the season. Soliz and his brother, Steve, played at Rio Mesa a decade or more ago with the likes of Cincinnati Reds outfielder Dmitri Young and triple-A first baseman Mike Mitchell.

Steve, in fact, is in triple-A himself, catching for the Las Vegas Stars in the Pacific Coast League.

David set a record with 85 career pitching appearances at Cal State Los Angeles, turned his back on an opportunity to join the police force and embraced coaching. He led the powerful Camarillo A American Legion team the last four years.

When Rich Duran resigned as Rio Mesa coach, David, 27, was ready to step in.

But he didn’t count on a defense that has made 63 errors in 21 games, including nine in one forgettable contest. The miscues have led to 67 unearned runs.

“The errors are very frustrating, but we’re playing much better lately,” Soliz said. “We’re trying to continue the tradition. This program has always been successful in terms of winning and producing players.”

The Spartans are beginning to rebound, winning four of their last five to improve to 9-12.

Nick Barroso, who has played right field and first base, is the team’s best link to glory days. He is 28 for 63 (.444), has eight stolen bases and has struck out only twice.

“Nick can play college baseball,” Soliz said. “He throws well enough to play right field and he is starting to drive the ball.”