Warriors are heading back to the postseason
BY MIKE WHITE
Staff Writer

PLUMSTED - At the start of the 2007 campaign, New Egypt High School baseball coach Rich Carroll realized that qualifying for postseason play with a roster full of freshmen and sophomores might be a lofty goal. He knew they were talented, but he was concerned that a lack of experience would leave them out of the mix.

Carroll was wrong. With an overall record of 10-9, the Warriors earned a berth in the Group I state tournament.

"I could not be more happy, or happy with the success this young group has had this year," Carroll said. "We've been playing very good baseball. I was concerned at the start with our youth. We've lost a few games by one run; that was because of our inexperience. They have grown a lot and have gained valuable experience. We're looking forward to the postseason."

It marks the fifth consecutive season the Warriors have qualified for the state tournament. The only season New Egypt failed to make the postseason was in its maiden year. Since then, the Warriors have made appearances every season.

New Egypt's offense has been sparked by freshman catcher Mike Fassl, who leads the team in average and RBIs. Hitting at a .380 clip and having driven in 19 runs, Fassl has been a pleasant surprise. Carroll knew he was getting an outstanding defensive catcher when he showed up in the spring; however, he didn't expect Fassl to handle varsity pitching with relative ease.

"He has been having a great year," Carroll said. "For a freshman to come in and lead the team in average and runs batted in says something about his ability. He was a great addition to the team this year. The best part is, we have him for three more seasons and he is only going to get better."

In a recent 7-3 loss to Southern Regional in the first round of the Ocean County tournament, freshman shortstop Brian Hamilton was flawless in the field while delivering an RBI single. While struggling a little bit at the plate, Carroll added that Hamilton does deliver in big spots.

"He has a knack for coming up with the clutch hit when we've need it," Carroll said.

Bob Miranda had two hits and an RBI against Southern, while Dakota Havens put forth a solid outing on the mound. Both are underclassmen.

"He [Havens] has been the victim of some tough luck this season," Carroll said. "He really deserves better than he has gotten from us."

P.J. Smith added an RBI in the game against Southern, and Dylan Rowley and Rick Mackesy both are hitting over .350 for the season. Sophomore pitcher David Stinson owns a record of 4-1. With an ERA under 3, Stinson is one of the staff's most effective hurlers. He has earned wins against Trenton and Riverside, two respectable clubs.

"He isn't the most overpowering guy, but he hits his spots and changes speeds very effectively," Carroll said. "His command is outstanding and he doesn't put guys on base with free passes."