By Shane Ostroski
Sports Editor
The Marywood University Baseball team will be under new direction for the 2008-2009 season. Jerry Davis, who served as an assistant for 13 years, will take the helm for the departing Joe Ross. The Pacers will face a tough challenge with the new coaching transition, but there is plenty of optimism. “Having a new coach is a new beginning for the program, and we all have high expectations of making the playoffs this season,” said sophomore pitcher Stefano Curto . The Pacers will look to improve on their 14-22 record from last year. Davis is excited for the beginning of a new season, “We are confident we will be competitive in the conference,” said Davis in an interview with The Wood Word.
The Pacers will be soaking up the sun rays in Fort Pierce, Florida during spring break to get an early start to their season. “We are fortunate to have the opportunity to play in Florida against good competition. I expect us to do well on the field and further bond as a team,” said Davis. The Pacers will play a total of 9 games in Florida which will give Davis an idea of what each player is capable of as well as a preview of how the season will go.
The Pacers will look to their three senior captains Korey Evans, Matt Newcomb and Pat Diskin for leadership. A strong point in our team is our leadership, the seniors show the drive to win which will hopefully create a winning vibe throughout the team,” said Davis. The Pacers were picked to finish fourth in the Colonial States Athletic Conference(CSAC) in a preseason coaches’ poll. It is sure to be an exciting season for the Marywood University Baseball team.