Coming off an 18-2 debacle of Prairie Ridge on March 22, baseball looks to utilize their momentum Monday against Oak Park River Forest.
“The last time we played Oak Park it was a tight game, a one or two run game. But we’re coming off a big win and have a very heavy senior group with experience,” explained coach Frank Consiglio.
Consiglio identified the keys to victory against OPRF.
“We need to make sure that we’re in a rhythm, that we can bunt the ball, execute base running,” said Consiglio. “We need to be able to hit with two strikes also.
The players look forward to competing against a perennial state powerhouse.
“We’re focusing on coming in and putting the hammer down on one of the best teams in the state,” said senior shortstop Jack Blanchard. “They’re a good team, but we’re better.”
The team lost an abundance of pitching. However, Consiglio expects juniors James Allen and Russell Snapp to fill that void.
“James pitched tremendously on Saturday (March 22),” said Consiglio. “If he can execute his secondary pitches and use both sides of the plate he’s a kid that can get a lot of outs, that we can rely on.”
Like most spring sports, baseball saw setbacks due to the extended cold this spring. Regardless, Consiglio isn’t worried.
“I’m just looking forward to the season, we’ve got a great group. Talents one thing, but you got to have that chemistry and I think we might.”