Today we will look at the catchers and designated hitters that will be a part of the success of the 2011 Texan Baseball team.
Catcher
Senior
Andrew Kapple will be the opening day starter for Tarleton at the catcher's position. Kapple played in 34 games last year and has plenty of experience behind the plate. He shows up everyday with a great attitude and puts forth a great effort. Combined with his experience and the veteran pitching staff, Tarleton feels that they will have the upper-hand when dealing with younger opponents both at the plate and on the base paths.
Senior
Mark Jeffery is Tarleton's other No. 1 catcher and will get a large amount of time behind the plate as well when he is fully recovered from off-season surgery. Jeffery will get a late start on the season, but should regain form after a few weeks, setting the Texans up for a nice combo at the catcher position. While also bringing experience and a good work ethic, Jeffery will join Kapple as a vital cog in Tarleton's strategy defensively.
Other Texans that will get a shot at catching are redshirt freshman
Jared Musgrove and senior
Regan Crim. Both are reliable athletes and will be crucial in helping fill in as Jeffery recovers from his surgery. With the collective efforts of three seniors and a talented redshirt freshman, the 2011 Texan catching core will be a consistent and steadfast part of this team.
Designated Hitter
As far as the designated hitter role is concerned, the coaching staff feels that they have a lot of quality options to fill the spot in the line-up. A number of names are being associated with the role, including junior
Reagan Janda, junior
Garrett Hardey, sophomore
Travis Hayes, and sophmore Tim Barry. All four batters have the ability to drive in runs and get on base, and will be expected to contribute day in and day out.
The Tarleton coaching staff has a goal of improving the offensive part of the Texans' game and the designated hitters will be a big part of that. With the heart of their line-up set and ready to lead the way, the DH's will be vital in protecting the heavy hitters. Expect to see fireworks coming from Cecil Ballow Baseball Complex this season.
