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MLB

Check out these locals during 2020 MLB season

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The 2020 MLB (Major League Baseball) season will be unlike any other it has experienced,  thanks to COVID-19.

The condensed 60-game schedule is believed to be the league’s shortest season since 1878. Fans will have to watch the games on TV, online, or listen to the radio — as stadiums will be off-limits to them, at least initially.

There also will be myriad other social distancing and health and safety protocols, and some new rules — such as the universal DH (designated hitter) and extra innings beginning with a runner on second base.

The season kicked off on July 23, four months later than expected, after MLB elected to postpone play in early March because of the pandemic.

Though later than anticipated, and with far fewer games than expected, baseball fans will get a chance to watch their favorite teams and players battle for a postseason spot and World Series crown.

Meanwhile, a handful of players (and a manager) with ties to The Laker/Lutz News coverage area look to take on prominent, even starring, roles with their respective MLB franchise this season.

Here’s a closer look at some of the locals to watch.

Austin Adams, Seattle Mariners, pitcher
Local tie: Zephyrhills High School
Fully recovered from offseason knee surgery, the 29-year-old right-hander is expected to make a sizable impact for the Mariners bullpen, sliding into the team’s late-inning pitching or even as a closer.

Seattle Mariners left-handed pitcher Austin Adams, a Zephyrhills High School product (Courtesy of MLB Advanced Media/MLB.com)

Since being traded to Seattle from the Washington Nationals last May, Adams registered a 3.77 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 51 strikeouts in 31 innings pitched across 29 games. The breakout 2019 campaign was cut short after a stomach-churning moment where he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus. It happened while trying to avoid a near-collision fielding a play at first base in a late September game against the Baltimore Orioles.

Adams grew up in Zephyrhills, playing little league at Sam Pasco Park. He went on to earn four letters in baseball (and one in basketball) at Zephyrhills High School from 2006 to 2009. He posted a 2.43 ERA and 80 strikeouts in his Bulldog career.

Adams’ high school success led to a baseball scholarship at the University of South Florida, a program that had its first Big East Championship final in 2012, during his junior year.

Adams signed with the Los Angeles Angels later that year after being selected in the eighth round of the 2012 MLB Draft.

His road to the big leagues was a lengthy one, having thrown more than 250 innings across five minor league seasons before making his MLB debut in 2017 with the Nationals (from where he was traded to by Los Angeles in late 2016).

Also, Adams joins a respective list of former MLB players from the Zephyrhills area, joining Dave Eiland (1988-2000) and Domonic Brown (2010-2015).

John Gant, St. Louis Cardinals, pitcher
Local tie: Wiregrass Ranch High School
Entering his fifth big-league season, the 28-year-old right-handed pitcher is projected to slot in as the Cardinals’ setup man or late-inning option, after a strong 2019 campaign where he won 11 games and posted a 3.66 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 60 strikeouts in 66.1 innings pitched.

St. Louis Cardinals right-handed pitcher John Gant, a Wiregrass Ranch High product (Courtesy of MLB Advanced Media/MLB.com)

Gant is known for having one of the most unique windups in baseball, whereby he takes a couple left-footed toe taps, then pauses before firing off a pitch. He’s also regarded for sporting a five-pitch repertoire, including a changeup nicknamed “The Vulcan” — gripping the ball between the middle and ring fingers, garnering its name from the Vulcan salute used by Spock in the Star Trek series.

Gant moved to Wesley Chapel when he was 11, from Savannah, Georgia. He wound up starring on the Wiregrass Ranch High varsity baseball team from 2008 to 2011 — striking out over 200 batters and suffering just three losses in four years.

Gant wasn’t only involved with baseball, though.

He was a member of the Wiregrass Ranch basketball and swimming teams, and also served as scorekeeper for the girls basketball program, which was coached by his father, John Sr., then a science teacher at the school.

Gant signed with the New York Mets out of high school after being selected in the 21st round of the 2011 MLB Draft. After four years in their minor league system, Gant was traded to the Atlanta Braves, where he made his MLB debut in 2016. He was traded offseason to the Cardinals, where he has been since.

Gant has customarily spent parts of his baseball offseason training in and around Wesley Chapel.

Oscar Mercado, Cleveland Indians, outfielder
Local tie: Gaither High School
The 25-year-old Mercado is penciled in as the Indians starting centerfielder. That follows a showy 2019 rookie season where he batted .269 with 15 home runs and 54 RBIs in 119 games, adding 70 runs scored, 25 doubles, three triples and 15 stolen bases.

Cleveland Indians outfielder Oscar Mercado graduated from Gaither High School in 2013. (Courtesy of MLB Advanced Media/MLB.com)

A native of Columbia, Mercado and his family emigrated to the United States and settled in the Tampa area when he was 7 years old.

He became a four-year starter at shortstop at Gaither High School from 2010 to 2013, leading the program to back-to-back district crowns.

As a Cowboy, Mercado was something of a prep prodigy. He was named ESPN’s No. 1 middle infielder in the nation and dotted multiple high school All-American lists — Under Armour All-American, MaxPreps Underclass All-American and Perfect Game All-American Classic and Underclass All-American.

In addition to his skills on the diamond, Mercado had a 5.0 weighted GPA at Gaither and originally planned to attend Florida State University on a baseball scholarship. That all changed when he was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the second round of the 2013 MLB, electing to sign with the club for a $1.5 million signing bonus.

Mercado spent nearly six years working through the Cardinals minor league system until he was traded to the Indians in July 2018. He made his MLB debut on May 14, 2019, against the Chicago White Sox.

Also noteworthy, Mercado became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2018.

Nate Pearson, Toronto Blue Jays, pitcher
Local tie: Odessa native, Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School
Widely considered one of the game’s top prospects, the 6-foot-6 flame-throwing righty is expected to make his MLB sooner rather than later this season with the Toronto Blue Jays.

Toronto Blue Jays right-handed pitcher Nate Pearson, an Odessa native and Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School alum. (Courtesy of MLB Advanced Media/MLB.com)

Reports out of Summer Camp indicate the 23-year-old Pearson is indeed ready for The Show, having refined breaking pitches to complement a fastball that regularly touches triple digits.

Born and raised in Odessa, Pearson starred at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School, helping the program to the Class 3A state semifinals as a senior in 2015. He wrapped up his prep career with a career 1.24 earned run average and 144 strikeouts in 101.2 innings pitched, with a 12-1 record.

Pearson went on to play college baseball at Miami’s Florida International University, then transferred to the College of Central Florida in Ocala. There, he was named the Rawlings/Perfect Game JUCO Pitcher of the Year, and subsequently selected by the Blue Jays in the first round (28th overall) of the 2017 MLB Draft, signing with the team for a $2.45 million bonus.

Pearson has proceeded to shine at each level of the minors, boasting a combined 2.19 ERA,

0.87 WHIP and 119 strikeouts in 123.1 innings from rookie ball through Triple-A.

The budding major leaguer spent a portion of the leaguewide shutdown in Tampa, training with other professional athletes at Yo Murphy Performance.

Matt Joyce, a New Tampa resident (Courtesy of MLB Advanced Media/MLB.com)

Matt Joyce, Miami Marlins, outfielder
Local tie: New Tampa resident/business owner
Through born and raised in Brandon, the 12-year MLB veteran has since made New Tampa home, living in the Hunter’s Green area and recently opening an F45 Training fitness center chain at The Walk at Highwoods Preserve neighborhood shopping center.

The left-handed hitting corner outfielder is the quintessential journeyman, having played for seven different MLB franchises, his longest tenure coming with the Tampa Bay Rays from 2009-2014.

He’s mainly played a platoon role throughout his career, almost exclusively getting action against right-handed pitchers. In recent years, he’s taken on a lesser role, as a spot starter and pinch-hitter.

The 35-year-old Joyce begins the 2020 season on the 10-day injured list, due to an undisclosed condition and having not participated in the team’s July Summer Camp activities. In more than 1,300 MLB games played, Joyce has accumulated 145 career home runs and 482 RBIs, along with a .243/.343/.432 slash line.

 

 

Kevin Cash, Tampa Bay Rays, manager
Local tie: Gaither High School
Before enjoying eight years as an MLB catcher and now manager of the Tampa Bay Rays, the 42-year-old Cash fine-tuned his baseball skills and acumen in Lutz, playing at Northside Little League and Gaither High School.

Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash grew up in Lutz, playing at Northside Little League and Gaither High School. (Courtesy of Tampa Bay Rays communications department)

He spent his younger days growing up in the Valley Ranch Drive neighborhood, situated across from Lake Park.

Cash first hit the national scene in 1989 — then a 12-year-old second baseman for a Northside Little League team that reached the 43rd Little League World Series.

Cash would go on to later play college baseball at Florida State University and earn spots with six different MLB franchises from 2002-2010 — including earning two World Series rings with the 2007 Red Sox and 2009 Yankees, respectively.

Once his playing career concluded, Cash ventured into coaching and has been the Rays manager since 2015. He’s widely regarded as one of the game’s best for leading a Rays rebuilding effort that embraces outside-the-box strategies, such as platoons, shifts, and openers, combined with strong leadership skills in dealing with players.

Baseball is undoubtedly in his blood, as his father and uncle both played professionally, the latter reaching the big leagues in the 1970s.

Published July 29, 2020

Locals among top MLB draft prospects

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Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Major League Baseball (MLB)’s 2020 first-year player draft has been shortened to five rounds, from the usual 40 rounds in previous years.

The draft, scheduled for June 10 and June 11, assigns amateur baseball players to MLB teams.

Even with the new consolidated format, however, several locals from The Laker/Lutz News coverage area have a solid chance at being among the 160 athletes drafted. And, they have the possibility of living out their boyhood dreams and landing signing bonuses of hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars.

Steinbrenner High product CJ Van Eyk, now at Florida State University (Courtesy of Florida State University athletics department)

Four athletes with area ties are listed among MLB.com’s top 200 nationwide draft prospect rankings, including two within the top 100.

The highest-rated local is Steinbrenner High alum CJ Van Eyk, a junior right-handed pitcher at Florida State University (FSU) — listed as the No. 39 overall draft prospect, by the website.

The 6-foot-1, 198-pound Van Eyk registered an 18-5 win-loss record, 3.21 ERA, 1.274 WHIP and 225 strikeouts in 176.2 innings pitched across three college seasons.

The Lutz native has been a known commodity going back to his prep days, earning first-team All-American honors and a gold medal with the 18U USA National Team. He also led Steinbrenner to its first state championship as a junior in 2016 and was crowned Florida Dairy Farmers’ Class 8A Player of the Year.

Van Eyk was drafted out of high school by the New York Mets in the 19th round of the 2017 draft, but didn’t sign, opting for college instead.

A snippet of MLB.com’s analysis on Van Eyk reads: “The Florida State ace is capable of being a complete pitcher because of his willingness to pitch in with his fastball, his ability to throw his breaking ball at any point in the count and his feel for mixing his pitches to keep hitters off-balance, though issues with his command persisted over his first four starts in 2020. His potential as a starter still should have him in consideration in the top two rounds of the Draft.”

Sunlake High product Tommy Mace, now at the University of Florida (Courtesy of University of Florida athletics department)

The next highest-ranked local is Sunlake High product Tommy Mace, a junior-right handed pitcher at the University of Florida — rated the No. 70 overall prospect for the 2020 draft.

In three seasons at Florida, the 6-foot-6, 200-pound Mace compiled a 16-5 win-loss record, 4.37 ERA, 1.299 WHIP and 145 strikeouts in 179.1 innings pitched. He was off to his best college campaign this year, tallying a 1.67 ERA in a team-high 27 innings, until the remainder of the season was canceled thanks to COVID-19.

Mace was a three-year varsity player at Sunlake. His senior year he guided the program to a 17-12 mark and the Class 7A regional final. He then was selected by the Cincinnati Reds in the 12th round of the 2017 draft, but like Van Eyk, didn’t sign to pursue the college route.

MLB.com’s profile on Mace reports states the following: “Mace generally does a nice job of throwing strikes, keeping the ball down in the zone and getting ground ball outs. He gets high marks for his mound presence and makeup, putting him among a solid crop of top two round college pitchers in Florida.”

Though slightly outside our coverage area, an athlete in west Pasco County also cracked MLB’s top 200 prospect list.

Wesley Chapel native/Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High product Carson Ragsdale, now at the University of South Florida (Courtesy of University of South Florida athletics department)

Trinity native Jackson Miller, a senior catcher at Mitchell High, is rated as the 2020 draft’s No. 105 prospect. The Wake Forest University commit posted a .414/.498/.591 slash line in 88 games across four varsity seasons.

Meanwhile, Wesley Chapel native/Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High product Carson Ragsdale, a redshirt junior right-handed pitcher at the University of South Florida (USF), is ranked as the draft’s No. 170 prospect.

The 6-foot-8, 225-pound Ragsdale transitioned to a starter’s role this year at USF, after pitching out of the bullpen his freshman and sophomore seasons. (He missed the 2019 season following Tommy John surgery). He posted a 3.75 ERA, 1.391 WHIP and 77 strikeouts in 50.1 innings across three college seasons. Off the field, he was selected to the 2018-2019 American Athletic Conference All-Academic Team.

Ragsdale was a four-year letter winner at Bishop McLaughlin. He compiled a 1.58 ERA and .352 batting average in his high school career. Those Hurricanes teams that Ragsdale played on went a combined 77-21 from 2013 to 2016.

MLB.com’s report on Ragsdale observes: “Ragsdale threw a lot of strikes this spring, but is still more control than command at this point. Given that scouts only saw four outings from Ragsdale as USF’s Sunday starter, there’s very limited track record for teams to look at, but his size and arm strength, even if it ends up in the bullpen, could be enough for teams to take a chance on him in this year’s Draft.”

Robust draft history
It’s not uncommon for at least a couple locals from area high schools and colleges to be drafted each year.

Last year, Land O’ Lakes High/St. Petersburg College second baseman Dustin Harris was selected in the 11th round by the Oakland Athletics, while Pasco-Hernando State College/University of Tampa pitcher Tyler Beck was selected by the Minnesota Twins in the 30th round.

The 2018 draft yielded four local products:

  • Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High/University of North Florida pitcher Frank German (fourth round, New York Yankees)
  • Saint Leo University pitcher/first baseman Jake Sims (31st round, San Diego Padres)
  • Saint Leo University second baseman Zach Scott (32nd round, Seattle Mariners)
  • Wiregrass Ranch High/University of North Florida pitcher Austin Drury (34th round, Los Angeles Dodgers)

The 2017 draft also was particularly kind to local talent. In addition to Van Eyk and Mace getting drafted out of the prep ranks, six other athletes with local ties were chosen:

  • Odessa native/Bishop McLaughlin/College of Central Florida pitcher Nate Pearson (first round, Toronto Blue Jays)
  • Steinbrenner High/USF shortstop Kevin Merrell (first round compensatory, Oakland Athletics)
  • Steinbrenner High first baseman Patrick Morris (14th round, Toronto Blue Jays)
  • Steinbrenner High/Bishop McLaughlin/University of Pittsburgh pitcher Josh Falk (17th round, Oakland Athletics)
  • Odessa native/Alonso High pitcher Jordan Butler (34th round, New York Yankees)
  • Bishop McLaughlin outfielder Paul Coumoulos (40th round, Philadelphia Phillies)

Locals on MLB.com’s top 200 prospect rankings

  • Steinbrenner High/Florida State University pitcher CJ Van Eyk (No. 39 overall draft prospect)
  • Sunlake High/University of Florida pitcher Tommy Mace (No. 70)
  • Trinity/Mitchell High catcher Jackson Miller (No. 105)
  • Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High/University of South Florida pitcher Carson Ragsdale (No. 170)

Published May 27, 2020

Coronavirus cancels many sports events

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As fears regarding coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) continue to ramp up, so do cancellations on the sports landscape — nationally, regionally and locally.

The FHSAA (Florida High School Athletic Association) announced there have been no final decisions concerning state series or state championship events. Furthermore, spring sport rankings will not be released until further notice. (File)

The unexpected cancellations began on March 10 when The Ivy League, a Division I collegiate athletic conference comprised of private schools in the Northeast, announced the cancellation of its men’s and women’s basketball tournaments, and it said it would limit the number of spectators that can attend spring sports — as a direct response to accelerated coronavirus cases across the country.

In short order, many other sports organizations — professional, collegiate, amateur, recreational and youth — followed suit by postponing or canceling events during ensuing days.

The NBA and the NHL League suspended their seasons indefinitely. The MLB canceled spring training games and pushed back the start of the 2020 regular season.

Even WWE’s WrestleMania 36 — scheduled for April 5 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa — has been moved to a “fanless” venue at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando.

Meanwhile, the NCAA on March 12 canceled Division I men’s and women’s basketball tournaments (more widely known as March Madness), as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships, in light of ever-evolving news regarding the public health threat of COVID-19.

In a similar move, the NJCAA (National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association) on March 16 canceled all upcoming basketball championships, as well as spring competition, effective immediately.

The NCAA and NJCAA decisions means that Saint Leo University (Division II NCAA) and Pasco-Hernando State College (Division II NJCAA) have canceled the remainder of the spring season, as well as all activities for all fall, winter and spring sports until further notice.

The Saint Leo athletic department, in a release, said: “The health, safety and welfare of all of our staff and student-athletes is paramount. Taking these precautions now will help keep our student-athletes healthy so they can successfully complete their academic coursework and resume competition in Fall 2020.”

In accordance with the NCAA, Saint Leo University has canceled the remainder of the spring sports season, affecting such sports as softball. Meanwhile, all activities for all fall, winter and spring sports have been suspended until further notice. (File)

Postponements and cancellations also have affected high school sports.

All athletics activities at Hillsborough and Pasco county public schools are canceled until at least April 15, as part of a statewide directive from Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Academy at the Lakes has canceled all sporting events, including games and practices, through at least March 29. Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School also has canceled athletic practices, games and non-school functions until at least April 15.

The FHSAA (Florida High School Athletic Association) also announced there have been no final decisions concerning state series or state championship events. Furthermore, spring sport rankings will not be released until further notice.

“As we receive information from state authorities and health departments, the FHSAA will continue to make decisions for each sport individually, moving forward,” the statewide athletics organization said, in a release.

Many local youth and adult sports leagues have postponed or canceled their spring seasons, too.

Pasco County Parks announced all events, activities, youth and adult sports leagues, field reservations and so on have been canceled until at least May 1.

County parks will continue to remain open for day-use only, however recreation complexes and community centers remain closed until further notice. That includes the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, Heritage Park Community Center, James Irvin Community Center, Odessa Community Center, among others.

Likewise, Hillsborough County recreation centers are closed and athletic activities have been canceled until at least April 13, but Hillsborough County parks are open.

Meantime, large sports leagues put on by local churches also have been postponed or shuttered.

Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz has canceled the entire spring season for youth baseball, youth softball and men’s softball. Pending developments with the coronavirus, the church plans to ramp up sports registration on July 1 for its fall youth soccer and adult coed soccer leagues.

Grace Family Church, which has campuses in Lutz and Land O’ Lakes, has postponed its basketball, kickball and softball leagues, until further notice.

Published March 25, 2020

New Year in sports offers plenty to watch, experience

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As we embark on a new year, the sports world within The Laker/Lutz News coverage area promises to deliver plenty to watch, experience, and perhaps appreciate.

Here’s a closer look at some of the happenings in 2019:

One major development will be the progression of new sports facilities throughout East Pasco County  —  whether it’s the end-of-year completion of the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Complex, or the beginning of construction of others like the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis Center in Zephyrhills and the Christopher N. Chiles Aquatic Center in Land O’ Lakes.

Tied into all that, keep an eye on the initiatives put forth by Visit Pasco, the county’s tourism agency. Since rebranding its slogan to “Florida’s Sports Coast,” the county is looking to become a destination nationwide for youth and amateur sports.

Speaking of amateur sports, the new year is a good time to jump off the couch, get outdoors and pick up a new sport or activity.

AdventHealth Center Ice (formerly Florida Hospital Center Ice) will host several major tournaments in 2019, such as the USA Hockey adult men’s recreational national championships. (File)

The region presents countless opportunities year-round, from adult softball leagues at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, to recreational hockey leagues at AdventHealth Center Ice (formerly Florida Hospital Center Ice) in Wesley Chapel. Many local churches, including Idlewild Baptist Church, Grace Family Church and St. Timothy Catholic Church, offer their own sports leagues for all skill levels, from kickball and basketball, to flag football and soccer.

The cooler, early year temperatures are also a prime time to hit up the myriad of golf courses in Pasco. The St. Leo Abbey Golf Club in San Antonio and Fox Hollow Golf Club in Trinity are well-regarded, as are the more exclusive 36 holes offered at the Saddlebrook Resort & Spa.

Meantime, the adventure-seeking, fitness-oriented crowd may find it worthwhile to bike the Upper Tampa Bay Trail and the Withlacoochee State Trail; sign up for a Savage Race at Little Everglades Ranch in Dade City; or, partake in Hillsborough County’s annual hiking spree, which includes visiting a number of nature parks and preserves countywide.

Several local churches, such as Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz, offer a multitude of recreational sports leagues. (Courtesy of Idlewild Baptist Church)

There’s other fun, outdoor activities to give a try, too.

Exhilaration and excitement can also be found at places like TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park in Dade City and Skydive City in Zephyrhills. Horseback riding at Odessa’s Northwest Equestrian Conservation Park and rifle shooting at Tampa Bay Sporting Clays in Land O’ Lakes create a fun change of pace, in their own right.

Local sporting events are another highlight of the new year.

AdventHealth Center Ice will showcase its fair share. They include the Mrs. Hockey Invite, featuring the top U-12 girls talent from across the world; the 15th annual Toyota-USA Disabled Hockey Festival, the largest disabled hockey event of its kind; and, the USA Hockey adult men’s recreational national championships.

Silver Dollar Shooters Club in Odessa will play host to a series of premier events, including the Florida Hall of Fame Shoot/Silver Dollar Open, the Florida State Trap Shooting Championships, and the Southern Grand American Tournament.

This rendering shows the proposed Christopher N. Chiles Aquatics Center in Land O’ Lakes, which would add to the growing list of sports facility assets in Pasco County. (File)

Elsewhere, traditional sports-goers should also make a point to check out the various men’s and women’s college sports at Saint Leo University — consistently one of the nation’s Division II athletic programs — and Pasco-Hernando State College. Both institutions provide an up-close look at many athletes who wind up finding success in the professional sports ranks. That’s particularly been the case for Saint Leo’s baseball program, which has yielded seven MLB Draft picks since 2013.

Of course, the high school sports scene is worth watching as well.

The winter prep season is already underway, whereby several local schools are fielding top-notch basketball and soccer teams.

For instance, the Wesley Chapel boys basketball and Sunlake girls basketball have shown early promise, as have the boys and girls soccer teams at Wiregrass Ranch, among some others.

So, don’t be surprised if one or more of those squads wind up making deep playoff runs in their respective sport a couple months from now.

Come springtime, the central Pasco softball scene is sure to provide some exciting moments, as Academy at the Lakes, Land O’ Lakes and Sunlake each are coming off 20-plus win seasons.

The Savage Race, an extreme mud obstacle course, is held twice a year at Little Everglades Ranch in Dade City. (Courtesy of Savage Race)

Academy at the Lakes will be seeking its second-straight Class 2A state title, while Land O’ Lakes will be seeking its second Class 6A title in three years, respectively.

Both squads unquestionably have the veteran pitching firepower to again win state crowns, armed with Alabama signee Lexi Kilfoyl (Academy at the Lakes) and Tennessee signee Callie Turner (Land O’ Lakes) in the circle.

Other local softball programs like Gaither, Freedom, Steinbrenner and Cypress Creek are also coming off strong campaigns to inject some competition in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

The 2019 football season, too, should offer some interesting wrinkles.

New coaches will take over at Pasco and Sunlake, effectively replacing two household names in Tom McHugh and Bill Browning, respectively.

Those programs — along with the other public schools throughout Pasco — will look to unseat Zephyrhills, which went undefeated last regular season and is now up to 19 straight regular season victories.

Another storyline to follow: Land O’ Lakes and the progression they make under second-year coach Chad Walker. In his first season as a high school football head coach, the 34-year-old Walker guided the Gators to a 7-3 mark in 2018 — the program’s first winning season since 2013.

The eight-man football ranks is sure to create intrigue, as well.

Academy at the Lakes will be seeking an unprecedented third consecutive state title.

The team — which also went undefeated in 2018 and is on a 20-game win streak — is expected to return many key pieces, including standout quarterback Jalen Brown, who will be a junior.

Published January 2, 2019

Locals well-represented in 2018 MLB Draft

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Becoming a professional baseball player will soon be a reality for a handful of athletes with ties to The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

The 2018 Major League Baseball Draft ran from June 4 to June 6 — whereby four locals had their names called.

University of North Florida junior right-hander Frank German, who grew up in Lutz and graduated from Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School, represented the highest local draftee when he was taken in the fourth round (127th overall) by the New York Yankees. German recently signed with the club for a reported bonus of $350,000.

German’s college teammate, junior lefty Austin Drury, a Land O’ Lakes native/ Wiregrass Ranch High School product, was also drafted, in the 34th round (1034th overall) by the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Meanwhile, a pair of Saint Leo ballplayers also were selected — junior righty/first baseman Jake Sims, in the 31st round (921st overall) by the San Diego Padres; and senior second baseman Zach Scott, in the 32nd round (958th overall) by the Seattle Mariners.

Both Sims, who signed with the Padres on June 12 for an undisclosed amount, and Scott helped Saint Leo University to a 38-11 record and a 21-9 mark in the Sunshine State Conference.

They respectively join 49 other former Lions who have had their name called for the draft, dating back to 1969.

Elsewhere, Saint Leo signee Waylon Richardson was also drafted, in the 40th round (1,187th overall) by the Philadelphia Phillies.

Richardson, a 6-foot-5 righty out of Kankakee (Illinois) Community College, opted to sign with the Phillies for an undisclosed amount, forgoing his eligibility to play baseball for Saint Leo.

The first-year player draft is Major League Baseball’s primary mechanism for assigning amateur baseball players, from high schools, colleges and other amateur baseball clubs, to its 30 teams — which offer up millions of dollars in signing bonuses to its top draftees.

All 30 MLB teams have until July 6 to get 2018 drafted players signed.

There were 40 rounds and 1,214 picks in total, during the three-day draft.

Players came from across the United States and Canada, from high school and college, and from every position on the diamond. There were players from 47 states taken.

Of those picks, 158 were from Florida, second to only California, which yielded 187 selections. Following California and Florida, were Texas (114 draftees), Georgia (65) and North Carolina (49).

Last year’s draft was particular fruitful for area talent.

Among the 2017 crop were four Steinbrenner High School products — Kevin Merrell (first round), Patrick Morris (14th round), Josh Falk (17th round) and CJ Van Eyk (19th round); Bishop McLaughlin products Nate Pearson (first round) and Paul Coumoulos (40th round); and Sunlake High School’s Tommy Mace (14th round).

Here’s a closer look at the local 2018 MLB draftees:

Frank German, right-handed pitcher (New York Yankees-fourth round, 127th overall)
Hometown: Lutz/Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School
College: University of North Florida

Frank German, a Lutz native who graduated from Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School before attending the University of North Florida, was selected as a pitcher in the fourth round by the New York Yankees in the 2018 MLB Draft. (Courtesy of University of North Florida Athletics)

As a fourth round selection, the 6-foot-2, 195-pound righty became the highest-drafted pitcher in North Florida program history, which previously never had an arm drafted within the top five rounds.

This past season, German went 8-3, posting a team-leading 1.58 earned run average and 108 strikeouts in 91.1 innings. He allowed one or fewer earned runs in 11 of his 14 starts, while notching six or more strikeouts in 13 contests. He also allowed just 14 walks and held opponent bats to just a .190 average.

German picked up All-American honors from D1Baseball (2nd team) and Perfect Game/Rawlings (3rd team), as well as being named an American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) All-South Region (2nd team) selection.

Additionally, he was a First-Team All-Atlantic Sun Conference honoree and was named a semifinalist for the prestigious Golden Spikes Award, given to the nation’s top college baseball player.

The accomplished thrower has a three-pitch arsenal, which includes a 90-mph to-94-mph fastball, along with a curveball and changeup — which some draft experts say projects him as an end-of-the-rotation starter at the next level.

As a high school senior, German earned 3A All-State honors and helped guide Bishop McLaughlin to the State Final Four.

Jake Sims, right-handed pitcher/first baseman (San Diego Padres—31st round, 921st overall)
Hometown: Guelph, Ontario, Canada
College: Saint Leo University

Saint Leo first baseman/pitcher Jake Sims was selected in the 31st round by the San Diego Padres. He signed with the club on June 12. (Courtesy of Saint Leo Athletics)

Sims proved himself a capable two-way player for Saint Leo in his first and only season with the club, coming from Roane State Community College in Tennessee.

At the plate for the Lions, the 6-foot-2, 205-pound Sims, who bats left-handed and throws right, hit .250 with 17 hits, nine runs scored, four doubles and four home runs. He also drove in 13 runs while finishing the 2018 season with a .485 slugging percentage and .354 on-base percentage.

Meanwhile on the mound, Sims held a 2.35 ERA in six appearances with 10 strikeouts and just four hits allowed. He allowed just two runs in his 7.2 innings of work.

Sims is the second Saint Leo player to be drafted by the Padres, joining Darrin Reichie, a fourth-round selection in 1987.

Zach Scott, second baseman (Seattle Mariners—32nd round, 958th overall)
Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona
College: Saint Leo University  

Saint Leo second baseman Zach Scott was selected in the 32nd round (958th overall) by the Seattle Mariners. He is now one of three former Saint Leo University players to get drafted by the Mariners, joining Daniel Torres (2013) and Taylor Perez (2015), all infielders. (Courtesy of Saint Leo Athletics)

The 6-foot, 185-pound Scott was a mainstay at second the past two seasons for Saint Leo after transferring from Colorado Christian University.

He wrapped up the 2018 campaign with a .312/.570/.385 slash line, recording 58 hits on the year with 12 doubles, six triples and eight home runs, while scoring 45 runs and driving in 42 RBI in all 49 games.

Defensively, Scott posted a .947 fielding percentage with 85 putouts and 131 assists while turning 27 double plays.

He’s now one of three former Lions to get drafted by the Mariners, joining Daniel Torres (2013) and Taylor Perez (2015), all infielders.

Austin Drury, left-handed pitcher (Los Angeles Dodgers- 34th round, 1034th overall)
Hometown: Land O’ Lakes/Wiregrass Ranch High School
College: University of North Florida

Austin Drury, a Land O’ Lakes native and Wiregrass Ranch High School product, was drafted as a pitcher in the 34th round by the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was teammates with Frank German at the University of North Florida. (Courtesy of University of North Florida Athletics)

A former A-SUN All-Freshman and Freshman All-American, the 5-foot-11, 175-pound lefty had a slightly down showing in 2018, finishing with a 4-4 record in 13 starts with a 4.85 ERA, recording 58 strikeouts in 68.2 innings of work and holding opponent’s to a .258 batting average.

Yet, his past success and potential as a southpaw is likely what intrigued pro scouts to call his name late in the draft.

In 2017, as a sophomore, Drury went 6-2 with a 2.43 ERA and 61 strikeouts in 74.1 innings, holding opponents to a .231 batting average.

Should Drury sign with the Dodgers, he’ll achieve a rare designation as a third-generation professional baseball player. His uncle, Ronald Kelly, and grandfather, Roy Kelly, both played in the minors.

Prior to college, Drury was a four-year member of the Wiregrass Ranch High School baseball team. His senior year he earned First-Team All-Pasco honors as the Bulls’ top batter (.380) and pitcher (1.83 earned run average).

He was also teammates with his older brother, Zach, at both Wiregrass Ranch and North Florida.

Published June 20, 2018

Eiland exits Kansas City Royals organization

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Zephyrhills native Dave Eiland was let go as pitching coach of the Kansas City Royals after six seasons with the pro club. (Courtesy of MLB.com)

Dave Eiland, one of Zephyrhills’ most celebrated sports figures, was let go as pitching coach for the Kansas City Royals after six seasons with the major league ball club.

The move to not renew Eiland’s contract — first reported by the Kansas City Star on Oct. 2— was part of a greater staff shakeup as the club enters the offseason following an 80-82 season. The club also opted to part ways with three other coaches.

Eiland, who oversaw pitching staffs that helped the organization reach two World Series, was hired by manager Ned Yost after the 2011 season, making him the longest-tenured member of the Royals coaching staff.

But, Kansas City pitchers struggled under Eiland this past season, combining to post a 4.61 ERA, the sixth-worst mark in the American League.

Moreover, it was the fourth straight season the Royals’ ERA slipped. It was 4.21 in 2016, 3.73 in 2015, 3.51 in 2014 and 3.45 in 2013.

Still, some industry pundits believe Eiland, 51, soon will get another big league coaching opportunity, based on his past experience and reputation, and considering the Royals overall lack of front-line talent in the rotation to begin with.

Before the Royals gig, Eiland was the pitching coach for the New York Yankees (2008-2010), and served in an advisory role, as a special assistant for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2011. Earlier in his career, he worked as a pitching coach in the minor leagues for several years in the Yankees organization.

Eiland, the son of the revered Zephyrhills police Chief Bill Eiland, graduated from Zephyrhills High School in 1984 as an all-everything athlete. In addition to baseball, Eiland stood out in football, basketball and golf.

He later went on to play baseball at the University of South Florida and was taken by the New York Yankees in the seventh round of the 1987 amateur draft.

That culminated in a decade long MLB career, which included two stints with Yankees (1988-1991 and 1995) as well as the San Diego Padres (1992-1993) and Tampa Bay Rays (1998-2000).

Published Oct. 11, 2017

Local athlete relishes national team experience

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Alexis Kilfoyl has had a busy summer, as a member of the 2017 USA Softball Junior Women’s National Training Team.

The Academy at the Lakes pitching sensation is one of just 24 athletes on the prestigious roster, which features some of the nation’s top players under 19 years old.

After a weeklong training camp in mid-June, Kilfoyl and her Team USA comrades participated in a round of friendlies and exhibition games against elite travel teams from California, Florida, Massachusetts and Washington.

Alexis Kilfoyl is one of just 24 athletes on the 2017 USA Softball Junior Women’s National Training Team. She made the team in January, following a two-day selection process in Clearwater. (Courtesy of USA Softball)

They also competed in the World Cup of Softball XII in Oklahoma City earlier this month, squaring off against some of the top international teams, including Australia, Canada and Japan, among others.

Kilfoyl, who mainly served in a relief role, pitched in six games, posting a 5.04 ERA over 8.1 innings.

The toughest team faced?

“Japan really stood out,” Kilfoyl said. “They have a lot of talent.”

Altogether, the Team USA experience has been enjoyable and unique.

At 16, the right-hander is easily the youngest, and one of just three Floridians on the roster.

She made the team in January, following a two-day selection process in Clearwater.

“It’s very different,” she said. “Just knowing all the girls from all around the country and how they play and meeting them, it was really fun. Knowing (some) of the girls are already in college, the competition is legit.

“I’ve learned like how really high up on the scale the talent is,” she added.

Building relationships and making new friends has proven worthwhile, too.

Kilfoyl previously was familiar with just two other players — University of Alabama’s Elissa Brown and Kaylee Tow.

“I love meeting new people,” Kilfoyl said. “Pretty much everyone was new. Some were friends of friends, but it was my first time meeting them.”

The U.S junior national team is currently in Clearwater, competing in the 26-team WBSC (World Baseball Softball Confederation) Junior Women’s World Championship.

The summer experience also has given Kilfoyl the opportunity to receive top-level coaching, from the likes of Oregon State head coach Laura Berg, Arizona State head coach Trisha Ford, and University of Texas-Arlington head coach Kristie Fox.

“They’ve given us little tips that’ve helped, some in pitching, but definitely more in fielding,” Kilfoyl said. “It’s been more about fixing up little things.”

She added: “I was working just on having everything ready, like having all of my pitches ready when I throw them in a game. Coming up this season for softball, I’m actually going to work on my weaker points, like my rise ball.”

The U.S. squad is currently in Clearwater through July 30, competing in the 26-team WBSC (World Baseball Softball Confederation) Junior Women’s World Championship, trying to defend its 2015 title.

Kilfoyl, however, will be traveling to California, as a member of the Georgia-based East Cobb Bullets Fastpitch travel team. (The U.S. junior team roster was recently pared down to 17 players, with Kilfoyl named one of seven alternates.)

She’ll rejoin the U.S. junior national team Aug. 9 and Aug. 10 in Cincinnati, Ohio, for an exhibition game at the MLB RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) World Series. The RBI program is Major League Baseball’s youth initiative designed to provide young people from underserved and diverse communities with opportunities to play baseball and softball.

One of Tampa Bay’s elite softball prospects, Kilfoyl has always stood out on the diamond.

She’s played varsity softball since the seventh grade, and committed to Alabama her freshman year.

At 6-foot-1, she stands nearly a foot taller than most of her high school teammates.

She has the game to match, with a 68-mph fastball and signature drop-ball pitch.

Kilfoyl won 16 games as a sophomore last season, posting a 0.85 ERA and striking out 201 batters in 115.3 innings — guiding Academy at the Lakes to the Class 2A regional final.

The campaign earned her a nod to the Miracle Sports Class 2A All-State First Team.

“I worked on hitting my spots more consistently,” Kilfoyl said of her sophomore season. “Freshman year, I was kind of chaotic. I would just throw the pitch for no reason, and was a little more careless. But, this year we were playing better teams, where you have to step up your game and start throwing stuff for a purpose.”

Meanwhile, her development —along with fellow AATL teammates—excites her for the 2018 season.

Besides Kilfoyl, the Wildcats are stacked with gifted, young hitters, including freshman Brooke Blankenship (.522 average, six home runs) and Kendra Falby (.537 average, six doubles), and sophomore Jessica Mott (.522 average, nine doubles).

“People are definitely working harder,” she said. “Like all of the girls are playing in really good travel teams this summer, and traveling the country playing in the best tournaments. So, next year everyone’s going to come out a better player, and I think we have a chance to move on to states next year.”

Alexis Kilfoyl’s Academy at the Lakes varsity stats
Sophomore
Pitching: 16 wins, 0.85 ERA, 201 strikeouts in 115.2 innings
Hitting: .517 average, with five home runs, eight doubles and 36 RBIs

Freshman
Pitching: 11 wins, 1.36 ERA, 163 strikeouts in 103 innings
Hitting: .561 average, three home runs, six doubles, 20 RBIs

Eighth grade
Pitching: 12 wins, 0.72 ERA, 111 strikeouts in 87.1 innings
Hitting: .458 average, four home runs, eight doubles, 25 RBIs

Seventh grade
Pitching: 14 wins, 2.61 ERA, 118 strikeouts in 115.1 innings
Hitting: .309 average, four doubles, 12 RBIs

Alexis Kilfoyl’s other accomplishments:

  • First year Team USA member
  • 2016 Junior Olympic Cup Champion,
  • Placed third at 2015 USA Softball 14U Nationals
  • Named 2015 Team MVP at Gainesville GOLD USA Softball Nationals
  • Competed at 2013 USA Softball 12U Nationals
  • Played for the East Cobb Bullets Schnute 18U and Gainesville Gold McFadyen 16U

Q-and-A
What it means to represent the United States: “It’s a dream come true. It’s the biggest honor to wear the letters ‘USA’ across your chest.”

What she enjoys most about softball: “I love working together as a team and the friendships that I have made. I love how everyone is different and works hard in their position. I love the feeling of striking people out and know that if I don’t, I have a team behind me that has my back.”

How she got started playing softball: “I first watched my older brother play baseball when I was 5 years old, so I gave softball a try and absolutely hated it. My dad asked if I would continue to play if he coached the team, and I agreed. I was 7 years old at the time.”

-Stats compiled using maxpreps.com

Published July 26, 2017

Locals fare well in 2017 MLB Draft

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Dreams of playing professional baseball are about to come true for several local athletes.

The 2017 Major League Baseball (MLB) Draft wrapped up on June 14, and several baseball players with ties to The Laker/Lutz News Coverage Area were selected.

The first-year player draft is Major League Baseball’s primary mechanism for assigning amateur baseball players, from high schools, colleges and other amateur baseball clubs, to its 30 teams — which offer up millions of dollars in signing bonuses to its top draftees.

There were 40 rounds and 1,205 picks in total, over the three-day draft.

Of those picks, 135 were from the state of Florida, second to only California, which produced 192 selections.

Remarkably, four former Steinbrenner High School players were selected — Kevin Merrell (first round), Patrick Morris (14th round), Josh Falk (17th round) and CJ Van Eyk (19th round).

The draft was also kind to Odessa natives — Bishop McLaughlin product Nate Pearson (first round) and Alonso High’s Jordan Butler (33rd round).

Other local talent selected included Sunlake High right-hander Tommy Mace (14th round) and Bishop McLaughlin outfielder Paul Coumoulos (40th round).

Just two players with local ties were selected in last year’s draft: Saint Leo’s Troy Sieber was picked in the 24th round by the Houston Astros, while Gaither High’s Camryn Williams was picked in the 39th round by the Seattle Mariners. Sieber, a first baseman, is currently assigned to the Greeneville Astros, a rookie-level affiliate in Tennessee. Williams, a shortstop, opted to hold off a pro career to attend Dallas Baptist University, in Texas. He’ll again be draft-eligible in 2019.

Pitcher Nate Pearson (Toronto Blue Jays-first round, 28th pick)

Nate Pearson, an Odessa native, was drafted 28th overall by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2017 MLB Draft. Pearson graduated from Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School in 2015. (Courtesy of College of Central Florida)

The Odessa native graduated from Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School in 2015, where he was one of the top pitchers in the state (1.24 career ERA). He attended Florida International University as a freshman, then transferred to College of Central Florida in Ocala. In his lone season there, he posted a 1.56 ERA and 118 strikeouts in 81 innings, and was named JUCO Pitcher of the Year by Perfect Game.

An imposing 6-foot-6, 245-pound right-hander, Pearson is lauded for a blistering fastball, which touches 101 miles per hour.

Baseball America ranked him as the state’s second best draft prospect, just behind University of Florida ace Alex Faedo.

Based on his draft position, Pearson could receive a signing bonus upwards of $2.3 million.

Kevin Merrell (Oakland Athletics-first round, 33rd pick)

University of South Florida shortstop and Steinbrenner High alum Kevin Merrell was selected 33rd overall by the Oakland Athletics in the 2017 MLB Draft. Merrell graduated from Steinbrenner in 2014, where he was a four-year letter winner for head baseball coach John Crumbley; he also lettered in golf and track. (Courtesy of University of South Florida)

The Steinbrenner High product and University of South Florida shortstop is widely viewed as the fastest college player in the 2017 draft class. On his high school track team, the 6-foot-1, 189-pound Merrell ran a 10.6-second, 100-yard dash. Those wheels translated well to the baseball diamond, where he stole 56 bases in his three-year college career, eighth-most in program history. Besides pure speed, the left-handed hitter boasts an elite bat, posting a career .353 average, and becoming the only player in South Florida history to lead the team in hitting three-straight seasons.

He also showed power in 2017, slugging seven home runs and 15 extra-base hits.

Merrell’s on-field performance earned him several end-of-year accolades, including 2017 American Athletic Conference First Team and 2017 Baseball America Second Team All-American.

Meanwhile, he was ranked as the state’s seventh best draft prospect and 51st overall, according to Baseball America.

Based on his draft position, Merrell is slotted to receive a signing bonus upwards of $2 million.

Tommy Mace (Cincinnati Reds—12th round, 347th pick)
One of the most effective prep arms in the Tampa Bay area, Mace tallied a 1.29 ERA and 92 strikeouts in 70.2 innings, with an 8-2 record in 11 appearances — and helped guide Sunlake High to the Class 7A regional finals.

A lanky 6-foot-7, 200-pound right-hander, Mace has developed a consistent 90 mph fastball, along with a tight curveball and usable changeup. Previously a University of Kentucky commit, Mace has since elected to play baseball at the University of Florida. If he temporarily forgoes a pro career, he’ll be draft-eligible again in three years, likely improving his draft stock.

Should he sign with Toronto, it could mark solid draft value at pick No. 347 for the pro club, as Baseball America ranked Mace the state’s 12th best draft prospect and 88th overall.

Patrick Morris (Toronto Blue Jays—14th round, 429th pick)
A power-hitting, left-handed first baseman, Morris possessed extra-base and home run power the past two seasons at Steinbrenner High, racking up eight home runs, 17 doubles and 43 RBIs cumulatively. The 6-foot-1, 190-pound Morris also was a solid pitcher, posting a career 2.71 ERA, with 82 strikeouts in 95.2 innings.

Baseball America ranked Morris as the state’s 89th best draft prospect. He is a Florida Atlantic University commit.

Josh Falk (Oakland Athletics—17th round, 501st pick)

Josh Falk, a University of Pittsburgh pitching standout, attended Steinbrenner and Bishop McLaughlin Catholic high schools. He was selected by the Oakland Athletics in the 17th round of the 2017 MLB Draft. (Courtesy of University of Pittsburgh)

Falk began his prep career at Steinbrenner High, and then transferred to Bishop McLaughlin, where he graduated in 2013. He started his college career at Hillsborough Community College, before winding up at the University of Pittsburgh, where he developed into the pitching staff’s ace. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound right-hander finished the season with a 3.92 ERA, with a record of 3-7 in 14 appearances. He also ranked among ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference) leaders in innings (85), strikeouts (75) and batting average against (.228). Falk, who faced elite competition at Pitt, can locate all three of his pitches for strikes, which includes an effective breaking ball.

CJ Van Eyk (New York Mets—19th round, 577th pick)

Steinbrenner High’s CJ Van Eyk was selected by the New York Mets in the 19th round of the 2017 MLB Draft. (File)

A highly touted prospect, Van Eyk possibly dropped in the draft due to medical and signability concerns as a firm Florida State University commit. This past season at Steinbrenner, Van Eyk threw just 38.1 innings and was shut down in April with arm soreness. In his limited action, however, the 6-foot-2, 195-pound righty was virtually unhittable, posting a 0.73 ERA and 56 strikeouts. Besides a blazing 95-mph fastball, Van Eyk possesses a devastating curveball and effective changeup.

Last summer, the Steinbrenner star jumped onto the national radar, as a member of the USA Baseball 18 and under team’s pitching staff, helping the squad win gold at the Pan American Championships.

Also in 2016, he led Steinbrenner to its first state baseball title and was crowned the Florida Dairy Farmers’ Class 8A Player of the Year.

Baseball America ranked Van Eyk as the state’s 18th best draft prospect and 109th overall.

Some believe he could develop into a future first-round selection after seasoning at Florida State.

Jordan Butler (New York Yankees—34th round, 1,022nd pick)
The Odessa native starred at Alonso High for three years, morphing into one of the state’s top two-way high school players. On the mound this past season, the 6-foot-2, 195-pound southpaw registered a miniscule 0.85 ERA and 122 strikeouts in 82 innings, with a record of 9-2. At the plate, he hit .451, with eight home runs and 35 RBIs.

Butler will likely forgo a pro contract to attend the University of Florida, where he can raise his draft stock.

Baseball America ranked Butler as the state’s 41st best prospect and 251st overall.

Also of note: he was a teammate of Van Eyk on the USA Baseball 18 and under squad last summer.

Paul Coumoulos (Philadelphia Phillies—40th round, 1,193rd pick)
A four-year varsity player at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School, Coumoulos proved one of the best pure hitters in Pasco County each season. In 104 career games, the 6-foot, 205-pound outfielder posted a career .378 batting average, .471 on-base percentage, 21 doubles and 62 RBIs. Also a capable runner, Coumoulos racked up 31 steals on 33 attempts in his career.

He is a College of Central Florida commit.

Published June 21, 2017

Area baseball players to watch

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The high school baseball season in Florida has kicked off. Some of the top players — and teams — in the state reside right here in our coverage area. From Steinbrenner and Gaither to Land O’ Lakes High, there’s no shortage of prep baseball talent.

Here’s a look at some players to keep an eye on as the season progresses:

Steinbrenner High’s CJ Van Eyk is one of the top players in Hillsborough.
(File)

RHP (right-handed pitcher)/INF (infielder) CJ Van Eyk, Sr., Steinbrenner: The 6-foot-2 Florida State commit is looking to build off an eye-opening 2016 campaign (12-1 record, 0.77 ERA, 130 strikeouts), where his performance on the mound buoyed Steinbrenner to the Class 8A state title. His arsenal consists of a low-90s fastball, along with a power curve and changeup. Also an outstanding hitter, Van Eyk batted .340 with five doubles and 13 RBIs in 2016. In October, Van Eyk was one of just 20 players across the country selected to the USA Baseball 18U National Team. Could be a high-round draft pick in the MLB draft in June.

Land O’ Lakes High’s McCabe Sargent is one of the top players in Pasco County.
(File)

RHP/3B (third-baseman) McCabe Sargent, Sr., Land O’Lakes: The Saint Leo University signee will be relied upon heavily this season following the graduation of RHP Kirby Osborn, now pitching for High Point University in North Carolina. Sargent burst onto the scene last year with a 0.47 ERA and 55 strikeouts in 44.1 innings. His skills with the bat, too, were impressive (.384 average, 16 RBIs). His well-rounded play earned him team most valuable player and Sunshine Athletic Conference (SAC) East Pasco Player of the Year honors. In addition to an 89-mph fastball, Sargent throws a slider, changeup and curveball. Models his game after Jacob deGrom, a starting pitcher for the New York Mets.

RHP/INF Darin Kilfoyl, Sr., Academy at the Lakes: At 6-foot-8 and 280 pounds, Kilfoyl is easily the most physically imposing prep player around. And, he has the skillset to back it up. Last year, the St. Johns River College signee had a 0.91 ERA and 97 strikeouts in just 46 innings. He also threw a no-hitter and pitched five complete games, thanks to four functional pitches — fastball, curveball, changeup and cutter. Kilfoyl was no slouch at the plate, either, batting .348 with two home runs and 16 RBIs. Over the summer, Kilfoyl played for the Atlanta Blue Jays, an elite travel club for 15-year-olds to 18-year-olds. He also was a standout player for Academy’s basketball team.

CF (center-fielder) Jose Cadenas, Sr., Gaither: Known for his elite speed (set a school-record 32 stolen bases) and outfield range, Cadenas was also Gaither’s top hitter (.398, six doubles, 11 RBIs) during the team’s 7A state title run in 2016. Cadenas, who committed to Polk State last summer, made a full recovery from a season-ending broken hand injury he suffered during a game in early 2015. Also noteworthy: Cadenas and his family moved to Tampa from Cuba when he was 8.

INF Michael Wu, Sr., Sunlake: The University of South Carolina-Sumter commit was one of the most consistent hitters in the area last season, batting .407 with two home runs, six doubles and 16 RBIs. Moreover, Wu struck out just three times in 66 plate appearances. A versatile fielder, Wu can play first base, second and third. The 5-foot-11, 195-pound standout also can step in on the mound, when needed. He played for Wiregrass Ranch as a freshman and sophomore.

Other players to watch:
RHP Tommy Mace, Sr., Sunlake
OF/RHP Patrick Morris, Sr., Steinbrenner
INF Max Law, Sr., Land O’ Lakes
RHP/OF Colton Bierly, Jr., Wesley Chapel
RHP Khalil Alumatism, Sr., Freedom
INF Drew Ehrhard, Sr., Wharton

Published March 1, 2017