The Panthers return a solid pitching staff led by seniors Jon Keebler and Max Halsz. Keebler, a 6'5" RHP (5-3 last season) gave a glimpse of the future posting a 1-0 shut out win in the District 16-6A championship versus the steadily improving South Dade Bucs. Halsz, a crafty lefty, is healthy for the first time in a long time and looks to return to the form that allowed him to toss a no hitter through 6 innings versus Southridge in the Regional semi-final two years ago. Junior Mike Cetta is more than capable of handling his share of starts and will have opportunities to toe the pitchers plate. Additional contributors to the pitching staff include returning seniors Adam Sergeant, Jacob Marchus, Chris Flores, and Sophomore Brandon Kacer. Senior Brian Roache and junior Yale Sanford are solid behind the plate and are more than ready to handle a veteran staff or play multiple positions if needed.
Defensively the Panthers look to improve on last year's inconsistent effort. Junior Dustin Delgado, a .350 clutch hitter a year ago, replaces All Dade shortstop and current Penn State slugger Lou Montesinos. Delgado and David Lee have shown promise as a double play combination as Lee, a senior, has locked down the job at second base. Senior Adam Pincus is showing promise at the plate and has improved defensively. Pincus will join a group of juniors battling to get into the lineup. The Panthers will rely on promising underclassmen during the 2010 campaign. Standout Frosh Riley Delgado has shown mature baseball instincts and is a multi-position player. Sophomores Jake Molkinten and Todd Smith are speedy outfielders with the ability to consistently get on base. This year the Panthers have blend of experience and unity that should carry them to the top of district 16-6A and their 5th consecutive state playoff appearance.
Learn more about Miami Palmetto Baseball at http://palmettopanthersbaseball.com/index.html
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