By Kyle LoJacono
The 2011 Land O’ Lakes baseball team reached the regional tournament for the first time in four years and two of the squad’s top seniors will continue playing at Marion Military Institute.
Right-handed pitcher and outfielder Steven Rosario and catcher David Perez each signed May 12 to play with the junior college in Alabama.
“They’re getting two good players who are great young men and who aren’t afraid of hard work,” said Gators coach Calvin Baisley.
The pair will be roommates while playing for the Tigers.
“Going to a new place it’s good that we have someone who we can relate to,” Rosario said. “We know what the other is going through. We don’t have any close relatives there, so it will help us both.”
Rosario, who wants to go into law enforcement, said he picked Marion Military because the coach Jake Wells showed a lot of interest in him as a player. Perez’s choice was made even easier because of Wells’ experience as a catcher in the minor leagues.
“I thought he could really help me become better,” said Perez, who is undecided on his major. “I want to try and get drafted, so I figure he can really help me.”
Rosario did not start pitching until his senior season, but Marion Military wants him on the mound.
“Coach Baisley tried me out on the mound and I guess it was a good idea,” Rosario said. “Now I have a scholarship to pitch in college. It’s a cool feeling to be considered a pitcher.”
Rosario had a 6-2 record with 2.59 ERA and 47 strikeouts as a senior using a fastball and slider. Perez batted .369 with 22 RBI, five doubles and three home runs and is also a newcomer to his position.
“David started as a pitcher and first baseman, but I knew we’d need a catcher and I thought he would be good at it,” Baisley said. “He worked hard to be good behind the plate and he also brings a big bat.”
The Gators went 20-9 this year and were the Class 4A-District 8 runner-up, reaching the regional quarterfinals.
“Playing here was amazing, especially this season,” Perez said. “We had great pitching with Steven and great bats. I’ll always remember this year.”
–All stats as recorded to Maxpreps.com by coaches.
