The Mountain View Mountain Lions baseball team figures to go as far as its pitching will take them in 2010.
The keys to that pitching staff are senior Kyle Barger and junior Vince Gerhard, who have "a lot of weight on their shoulders," said coach Anthony Chavez.
In a 9-1 loss to Mesa Westwood last Tuesday, Barger was a major bright spot. He threw three innings of scoreless relief, and allowed one hit. The concern was some early wildness, as he hit three batters, but he recovered and pitched out of two bases-loaded threats.
"I was happy he was able to get us out of trouble," Chavez said.
Gerhard's fastball was alive, as he struck out five. Barger's potential was evident, too. Despite giving up six hits and four earned runs, Barger fanned four in two innings. Last year, Barger had a 2.57 ERA.
As for the rest of the staff, Chavez is still searching. "We're still trying to figure out who our pitchers will be," he said.
Sophomore Cecil Fuentes looks to be penciled in as the leadoff man for the Mountain Lions, while Robert Kallal is the #2 hitter.
"We still don't know who will hit number three or number four," Chavez said. "We're still trying to figure out those spots."
Seniors on the team include Barger, catcher Jake Pierce, first baseman Adam Chacon, Zach Koprowski and Kallal.
Kallal reached base all three time up in the loss with a hit, a walk, and a hit by pitch. He also scored the team's lone run. Last year, he hit .355.
"It's a matter of finding the positions, and after spring break to work on what we need to do to be a better ballclub," Chavez said.
"There are positions open. It's a matter of who wants it the most."
Chavez repeatedly pointed out that it's open competition for defensive, and lineup positions, as well, until regional play begins. Then, he expects to have a regular lineup.
Last year, the Mountain Lions made the 5A-II playoffs with a 13-14 record.
