Will Fairfield Win The GMC ??

[ilovebeingunknown]

with all of their seniors will that be enough to win the GMC??

[TheKid08]

they could win the gmc, but so could 5 other teams just as easily(West, Colerain, Oak Hills, Princeton, and possibly Mason or East)

[AnUnbiasedOpinion]

they could win the gmc, but so could 5 other teams just as easily(West, Colerain, Oak Hills, Princeton, and possibly Mason or East)

Mason lost quite a bit from last year. I'd be shocked to see them in the top half of the GMC this year.

East didn't really have much last year but were competitive. If they were young last year I could see them making some noise this year.

[Xuball11]

I can't see Mason finishing in the top half either. They lost almost every starter and most of their pitching from last year's team. The GMC will be an absolute dog fight between Fairfield, West, Oak Hills, Colerain, and East.

[yappi19981]

Fairfield seniors = 0 signed collegiately.

Yes, they may have a lot of seniors, but the quality?

[ilovebeingunknown]

they will have alot trust me


prichard
haney
shiffman
ventling
riggs
silvani
kigar
schweinfest

all of those kids will go somewhere not D-1 but they will DEF go somewhere or atleast most of them

[rampanther]

West is state champ. Until someone knocks them off, you gotta go with them.

[Between the lines]

they will have alot trust me


prichard
haney
shiffman
ventling
riggs
silvani
kigar
schweinfest

all of those kids will go somewhere not D-1 but they will DEF go somewhere or atleast most of them

not to mention Pauley & Croy

[lefty28]

fairfield????? PLEASE

[Balls2thewall]

Fairfield won't have the sticks to win.

[ilovebeingunknown]

and west will the only team that can hit really good is princeton

[Xuball11]

i think oak hills will hit plenty....just don't know if they have the pitching.

[Gotti]

FF will finish 3rd no better

[ilovebeingunknown]

behind princeton and who else?

[Gotti]

1.West
2.Princeton
3.FF

[ilovebeingunknown]

haha west was good because of their offense last season they will be DECENT this season

[jus do it]

you must not know who Rob Shaw is. Was on the team that went to Tennessee w/ Champions. Hit 6 HR's on JV last year and 10 in the summer. committed to Olney(ILL.) juco already, had interest from West Virginia, Morehead St., and several other juco's.played jv because his grades were questionable. would of started at any other HS last year. will either be the 3 or 4 hitter for west this year depending on where brenneman will bat in the order.

[TheKid08]

he played jv? i'm sure he'll be a huge game changer.. what year is he?

[jus do it]

he played jv.

[bomberfball91]

Yea they will, i heard truesdales transfering there from anderson to play baseball there.......right, CatfanUC

[Winnin is everything]

i dont think so...they have alot of talent but i dont think its enough to winthe GMC

[ilovebeingunknown]

everyone post the projected rosters for every GMC varsity team

[climbingwalls24]

they could win the gmc, but so could 5 other teams just as easily(West, Colerain, Oak Hills, Princeton, and possibly Mason or East)

agreed. too early and too close to make these kinds of predictions. lets get through january first, then talk baseball.

[ilovebeingunknown]

i just feel west lost to many players to be good granite when they played hamilton they got swept and against fairfield when beaver pitched they only won the game 3-1 and west got lucky on some homeruns with the wind
they lost to much i say they finish 4th or 5th behind princeton fairfield oak hills colerain

[ilovebeingunknown]

i think colerain is overrated just like every other year
i think princeton does not have enoug pitching
i think fairfield doesnt have that one superstar player everyoine in that program is prett decent
i think oak hills will be like fairfield last season filled with juniors and pretty good

[Voice-of-Reason]

i just feel west lost to many players to be good granite when they played hamilton they got swept and against fairfield when beaver pitched they only won the game 3-1 and west got lucky on some homeruns with the wind
they lost to much i say they finish 4th or 5th behind princeton fairfield oak hills colerain

back to back jacks against Fairfield's ace. Gschwind with a shot down the right field line and Huff with a BOMB to left-center field. You wouldn't happen to be the pitcher who gave up the game winning homeruns??

[TheKid08]

colerain, princeton, and oak hills are all better than fairfield.

[Honest Opinion]

I'll give it to you on West beating Fairfield last year. The 1st home-run, yes, was all wind with a shot that fell between the fence and score-board (2ft gap). But, the 2nd one was a home-run at great american ball park, it was a SHOT. Haney pitched good enough to win but the offense struggled against West. If Fairfield couldn't hit with their 2 D1 players ( Bauer and Ottaway ), its going to be tough to win this year. The pitching will be there for them, the question is... Who will step up and be a hitter for them?

My predictions for the GMC are:

1) Princeton
2) Colrain/Fairfield
3) Fairfield/Colrain
4) Oak Hills
5) West
6) Mason
7) Hamilton
8) Sycamore/East
9) East/Sycamore

Just a prediction on the players I know the schools have and an un-biased opinion.

[Cattani]

Not to jump the gun, but give me some reason as to why East will finish last....I'll at least give you a chance to defend your position first...

[Voice-of-Reason]

East will certainly not finish last. I think they are a sleeper to contend this year! But, I will confess, I thought that they would contend last year too.

As always, the GMC will be tough.

[Honest Opinion]

The only reason I say that East will finish last is because who do they have? East has 2 hitters coming back that made themselves a good name in the league in Guise and Cattani, but who else? The pitching staff I feel will have to be a young one which typically isn't good in the GMC with the competition level they play at. And, with only 2 hitters in the line-up that can, for the most partg, give you consistant hitting, its hard to argue otherwise that they won't finish bottom 3 in the league. I could be wrong, it's just my opinion.

[brad01]

Who besides Durbin are Sophmore contenders for Varsity this year?

[JBaller]

Too many quality seniors are gone from the GMC last year to get a good read on how teams will be next year. My prediction, which could be way off:

1. Oak Hills - They have the best lineup in a league that won't have much pitching. They get my early nod.
2. Princeton - Same thing goes here. They have the second best lineup.
3. West - Defending state champs. Beaver is a great player to reload around.
4. Colerain - They have a number of solid players returning. Hundley is also a pitcher I really like.
5. Sycamore - For all I know they could finish last, but I think they have more talent than a lot of teams.
6. Fairfield - Very solid fundamentally. Haney gives them a big gun on the mound.
7. Hamilton - Maupin could be the best pitcher in the league next year. They won't score very many runs though.
8. Mason - Solid underclassmen will step into big roles.
9. East - Cattani, Giese, and really nobody else who is any good.
10. Middletown - They can only go up from last year.

[OHHS2]

i think oak hills will be fine in pitching numbers, but low in "pitchers" .

[TheKid08]

i think oak hills will do fine with pitching, middle infield will hurt them more than anything

[basesloaded]

Too many quality seniors are gone from the GMC last year to get a good read on how teams will be next year. My prediction, which could be way off:

1. Oak Hills - They have the best lineup in a league that won't have much pitching. They get my early nod.
2. Princeton - Same thing goes here. They have the second best lineup.
3. West - Defending state champs. Beaver is a great player to reload around.
4. Colerain - They have a number of solid players returning. Hundley is also a pitcher I really like.
5. Sycamore - For all I know they could finish last, but I think they have more talent than a lot of teams.
6. Fairfield - Very solid fundamentally. Haney gives them a big gun on the mound.
7. Hamilton - Maupin could be the best pitcher in the league next year. They won't score very many runs though.
8. Mason - Solid underclassmen will step into big roles.
9. East - Cattani, Giese, and really nobody else who is any good.
10. Middletown - They can only go up from last year.

Here is the way I see the GMC

1. Colerain - best pitching staff in the league...and the name of the game is pitching.
2. Oak Hills - best offense in the league, but i don't think enough pitching to win it.
3. Princeton - All that speed and offense, if they had any pitching would win the league.
4. West - Good returning pitching, will they score enough runs to contend for the title?
5. Fairfield - Pretty good pitching staff, very little offense.
6. East - Can score some runs...they have an impressive left handed pitcher i saw at champion's showcase and their offense should score some runs.
7. Hamilton - down year for the Big Blue....not much pitching.
8. Mason - lost pretty much everything from last year. have some pretty good, but inexperienced underclassmen.
9. Sycamore - not sure what they have.
10. Middletown - as usual

[AmericaOne]

Here is the way I see the GMC

1. Colerain - best pitching staff in the league...and the name of the game is pitching.
2. Oak Hills - best offense in the league, but i don't think enough pitching to win it.
3. Princeton - All that speed and offense, if they had any pitching would win the league.
4. West - Good returning pitching, will they score enough runs to contend for the title?
5. Fairfield - Pretty good pitching staff, very little offense.
6. East - Can score some runs...they have an impressive left handed pitcher i saw at champion's showcase and their offense should score some runs.
7. Hamilton - down year for the Big Blue....not much pitching.
8. Mason - lost pretty much everything from last year. have some pretty good, but inexperienced underclassmen.
9. Sycamore - not sure what they have.
10. Middletown - as usual

Fairfield, Colerain, Princeton, Oak Hills, Lakota West, Sycamore and East will be the contenders. It will depend on a lot of if's. There is no real dominating team and it will be a dog fight. My prediction there will be more than one team contending in the last week of the season. May be co-champions again like 2006.

[basesloaded]

Fairfield, Colerain, Princeton, Oak Hills, Lakota West, and East will be the contenders. It will depend on a lot of if's. There is no real dominating team and it will be a dog fight. My prediction there will be more than one team contending in the last week of the season. May be co-champions again like 2006.

I agree with you on the contenders. I just put them in order of how I think things COULD shake out. It will be a dog fight as always in the GMC. I give Colerain a sight edge only because Ithink they have the best pitching staff in the league, but they are certainly no lock to win it.

[AmericaOne]

I agree with you on the contenders. I just put them in order of how I think things COULD shake out. It will be a dog fight as always in the GMC. I give Colerain a sight edge only because Ithink they have the best pitching staff in the league, but they are certainly no lock to win it.

Basesloaded: I agree, Colerain has Casey Henn throwing in the upper 80's and hitting 90-91 when topping out. I have always said he would rise to the top at Colerain. They also have Chris Hundley and Alex Vice who both are good pitchers. They may be in the same situation as Fairfield. Fairfield has experienced pitchers who showed last year that they can get it done.. I think the games may be low scoring. You have done a good job with your predictions I just think it could be much closer than anyone would think. Every win will be big. League games will be tight. It is nice to see a 2-1 or 3-1 game. I think speed and small ball will be important this season and one run could be huge. JMO

[JBaller]

AmericaOne, Casey Henn does not throw that hard. He throws low 80s consistently, tops. Hundley throws harder than him and would be a much better pitcher than him if someone ever taught him some control.

[JBaller]

Everybody needs to remember that West also returns Jimmy Brenneman, who was first team all-state last year. I don't think they are going to struggle scoring runs as long as he is in the lineup.

[AmericaOne]

AmericaOne, Casey Henn does not throw that hard. He throws low 80s consistently, tops. Hundley throws harder than him and would be a much better pitcher than him if someone ever taught him some control.

JBAller: I guess the scouts in Tennessee were wrong, the guns at the showcases were wrong. Hundley is very good. I just know Casey garnered a lot of looks when he hit 89 on the gun at the showcases and when he opens up. Wright State obviously feels he is pretty good. I have had CAsey for 3 years and YES he does throw HARD. Period end of sentence. I like Chris Hundley too and I know he can bring it. Keep watching.

[basesloaded]

Everybody needs to remember that West also returns Jimmy Brenneman, who was first team all-state last year. I don't think they are going to struggle scoring runs as long as he is in the lineup.

One player doesn't make a lineup...Brenneman is a very good player, great speed, great bat, but unless West has some protection for him in the lineup, I doubt teams will let him beat them and he will be pitched around.

[coach1]

Jimmy Brennaman is a good player...end of story...saw him struggle a lot last summer against better pitchers with good location and throwing pitches out of the strike zone...Jimmy is a free swinger and he feasts off of bad HS pitching and bad HS catchers to steal on. JBAller A-1 has seen nothing but 90 mph pichers...don't worry.

[Xuball11]

Jimmy Brennaman is a good player...end of story...saw him struggle a lot last summer against better pitchers with good location and throwing pitches out of the strike zone...Jimmy is a free swinger and he feasts off of bad HS pitching and bad HS catchers to steal on. JBAller A-1 has seen nothing but 90 mph pichers...don't worry.

And coach has seen no one break 78....

[AmericaOne]

Jimmy Brennaman is a good player...end of story...saw him struggle a lot last summer against better pitchers with good location and throwing pitches out of the strike zone...Jimmy is a free swinger and he feasts off of bad HS pitching and bad HS catchers to steal on. JBAller A-1 has seen nothing but 90 mph pichers...don't worry.

Coach1: I have seen just two young men who have played for me in the past hit 90 and they are: Michael Nastold, when he was 16 and Casey Henn at 17. No Need to lie and both have signed nice D1 Scholarships>>>>> So if that is seeing nothing but 90 guys. Why is this so hard to believe. Jimmy is devastating once he gets on the base paths. Oh yea he does not throw 90 but played for me also and is a phenomenal athlete that can change the game once he gets on base.

[jus do it]

coach 1 - just curious when you saw Brenneman play last year? he batted over .500 in the summer, i played with him. he stole on dan burkhart twice last year when they scrimmaged moeller, i guess he was a bad catcher?:shrug:

[easton kings]

Fairfield will be able to contend and I wouldn't be surprised to see them in the top 5

[ilovebeingunknown]

i believe Fairfield can win the GMC they only graduated 3 people from last season and are loaded with seniors


maybe last years west team all over again??


haney
prichard
silvani
riggs
shiffman
johnson
owens
elmlinger


that will be plenty of pitching

[jus do it]

no way fairfield will do what west did last year, west had a stacked offense, fairfield not so much! unless haney can drop 15+ bombs for fairfield its not happening!

[ilovebeingunknown]

i didnt mean they would win state im just saying they have the potential to be like last years west team or mason last year stacked with seniors and capable to have a very very successful season sorry for the miscommunication

[Between the lines]

i believe Fairfield can win the GMC they only graduated 3 people from last season and are loaded with seniors

haney
prichard
silvani
riggs
shiffman
johnson
that will be plenty of pitching

These Seniors will have to do more than just pitch! (hit-hit-hit) With the exception of Haney, I think the rest of this group had a combined total of 10 at bats.... all last year.

[AmericaOne]

These Seniors will have to do more than just pitch! (hit-hit-hit) With the exception of Haney, I think the rest of this group had a combined total of 10 at bats.... all last year.

BTL: I believe most of these young men can hit. They do it in the summer, so it will be important that some of these experienced seniors do both, hit well when they are not pitching. Each player should have worked all off season on hitting along with pitching. Hopefully!!!!

[eye]

i believe Fairfield can win the GMC they only graduated 3 people from last season and are loaded with seniors


maybe last years west team all over again??


haney
prichard
silvani
riggs
shiffman
johnson
owens
elmlinger


that will be plenty of pitching

lovebeingunknown, you now have a sophmore listed, how does he compare to his brother?

[luvdagame]

BTL: I believe most of these young men can hit. They do it in the summer, so it will be important that some of these experienced seniors do both, hit well when they are not pitching. Each player should have worked all off season on hitting along with pitching. Hopefully!!!!

Do the pitchers typically hit and/or play other positions under coach Price? I know Haney hit a bunch last year, but most of the other pitchers did not. Fairfield will need the other position players to pick up the sticks and hit--Croy, Ventling, Schwienfest, etc

[AmericaOne]

Do the pitchers typically hit and/or play other positions under coach Price? I know Haney hit a bunch last year, but most of the other pitchers did not. Fairfield will need the other position players to pick up the sticks and hit--Croy, Ventling, Schwienfest, etc

luvdagame: Coach Price is an open-minded coach who will do whatever it takes to win at Fairfield. He knows what his players are capable of doing and I think he will give those pitchers who also can hit the opportunity to do so. Not necessarily when they pitch, even in summer ball we typically do not have the player hit when they are pitching. It is good for the pitcher to concentrate on his pitching game and not have to worry about striking out and then going back to the mound. You are correct though Croy, Ventling, Schweiny, and anyone else who plays the field better be able to hit consistently or I do not think they will be out there long. High school is a very short season and players do not have the luxury to work out of slumps. I hope that the kids who will be position players are hitting every day or at least 3-5 times a week. The sooner kids begin hitting live pitching from 60.6 feet the sooner they will adjust to hitting in games.

[AnUnbiasedOpinion]

Do the pitchers typically hit and/or play other positions under coach Price? I know Haney hit a bunch last year, but most of the other pitchers did not. Fairfield will need the other position players to pick up the sticks and hit--Croy, Ventling, Schwienfest, etc

All high school coaches allow pitchers to hit and/or play other positions if they believe the "pitchers" are better than the other players they have available. They might give a kid a rest (for example, after a high pitch count or during the first game of a doubleheader if the kid is pitching the 2nd game - even then they will DH if they have a good enough stick), but I've yet to come across a high school coach that will not let a "pitcher" hit if he's good enough.

[luvdagame]

luvdagame: Coach Price is an open-minded coach who will do whatever it takes to win at Fairfield. He knows what his players are capable of doing and I think he will give those pitchers who also can hit the opportunity to do so. Not necessarily when they pitch, even in summer ball we typically do not have the player hit when they are pitching. It is good for the pitcher to concentrate on his pitching game and not have to worry about striking out and then going back to the mound. You are correct though Croy, Ventling, Schweiny, and anyone else who plays the field better be able to hit consistently or I do not think they will be out there long. High school is a very short season and players do not have the luxury to work out of slumps. I hope that the kids who will be position players are hitting every day or at least 3-5 times a week. The sooner kids beginning hitting live pitching from 60.6 feet the sooner they will adjust to hitting in games.

Well that's good to know. I think there are some good hitters among these guys who pitch. It just seems like last year that wasn't the philosophy. Must have been due to the players he had to work with.
So...what is the projected lineup come opening day?

[ilovebeingunknown]

he is a little better of a person maybe not so much a pitcher hard to tell his brother is older

[ilovebeingunknown]

i believe fairfield will find a way to produce enough runs to be a top team in the GMC who all will have a shut down pitcher like alot of teams last year?? not as many dominate pitchers which will equal better success for the indians!!!

[Between the lines]

he is a little better of a person maybe not so much a pitcher hard to tell his brother is older

Emlinger will NOT play at the varsity level this year! Perhaps next year.

[ilovebeingunknown]

and who all will be the varsity pitchers in your opinion?

[Between the lines]

and who all will be the varsity pitchers in your opinion?

IMO :)
Haney, Prichard, Shiffman, Silvani and Johnson in no particular order.

Then you have Riggs, Burden, and Stern all seniors. One or two of the seniors may not make the varsity squad depending on the Jr.s they want to keep up. No Soph's will make the varsity this season as a pitcher.

[brad01]

IMO :)
Haney, Prichard, Shiffman, Silvani and Johnson in no particular order.

Then you have Riggs, Burden, and Stern all seniors. One or two of the seniors may not make the varsity squad depending on the Jr.s they want to keep up. No Soph's will make the varsity this season as a pitcher.

I agree on no sophmore pitching on varsity. No so sure I agree with your top 5 pitchers. What about sophmores in postition play?

[eye]

IMO :)
Haney, Prichard, Shiffman, Silvani and Johnson in no particular order.

Then you have Riggs, Burden, and Stern all seniors. One or two of the seniors may not make the varsity squad depending on the Jr.s they want to keep up. No Soph's will make the varsity this season as a pitcher.

hopefully the sophs stay jv where they can get some playing time, but you have probably not seen these sophs pitch or you would not be saying NO Sophs. Its not because they are not capable because some are.

[Between the lines]

I agree on no sophmore pitching on varsity. No so sure I agree with your top 5 pitchers. What about sophmores in postition play?

Corey Holt in the OF if they move Croy to IF, is a possibility. Durbin is a great hitter but with Shiffey, Haney & Prichard all being 1B'ers, not very likely. Pauley, Ventling and Croy should round out the infield. Hinson is there as well.

[Between the lines]

Riggs, Schweiney, Gabbard, Johnson, or whoever else can hit the baseball. Micah should make the squad as well. (Hitting & Pitching) I hear Owens is a possibility but I've not seen him play!

This is all just my two cents worth and nothing more. What do I know:shrug:

[eye]

Corey Holt in the OF if they move Croy to IF, is a possibility. Durbin is a great hitter but with Shiffey, Haney & Prichard all being 1B'ers, not very likely. Pauley, Ventling and Croy should round out the infield. Hinson is there as well.

durbin is a good hitter but of the people that are listed they cannot hold his jock on defense at first base

[luvdagame]

I'd be somewhat surprised if any sophs make the varsity team this year. You've got a ton of seniors returning plus a strong junior class. That's not to say there aren't some good sophs, but the fact that there are so many upperclassmen may make it tough for them to crack the lineup.

That being said, don't be surprised if some of the seniors don't make the team this year, creating some opportunities for other guys.

With approximately 16 returning seniors (who played either varsity or JV last year) something has to give. I can't see Fairfield keeping all these seniors when there are some underclassmen that are just as good, or better.

[AmericaOne]

I'd be somewhat surprised if any sophs make the varsity team this year. You've got a ton of seniors returning plus a strong junior class. That's not to say there aren't some good sophs, but the fact that there are so many upperclassmen may make it tough for them to crack the lineup.

That being said, don't be surprised if some of the seniors don't make the team this year, creating some opportunities for other guys.

With approximately 16 returning seniors (who played either varsity or JV last year) something has to give. I can't see Fairfield keeping all these seniors when there are some underclassmen that are just as good, or better.

Luvdagame: I think you are right. I also think that most coaches value the experience that a senior brings to the program and we do have some very experienced senior pitchers. These pitchers are capable of hitting. I am sure if you check the summer stats of these senior pitchers you will see that some pitched and played a secondary position while hitting. If this is done on a 17 or 18 year old top level summer team and they can hit consistently Average .300 to .500, with not a lot of strike outs then I got to believe the coaches will utilize them. When you consistently see strong pitching during the summer it prepares you for the GMC and the good pitchers that each team has. Some kids grow and get stronger by their senior year and just because they have not hit as sophomores or juniors they could be of value their senior season. I think players who did not play summer baseball between their junior and senior season may be in for a rude awakening when they are cut. I do not feel a player is worthy and deserves the right to play on the Varsity if they sat out the summer and did little serious training in the fall and winter. I also feel it shows determination and desire when a baseball player plays in the Champions or West Chester fall ball program during the fall also. This is when a lot of scouts are able to attend the fall showcase, and I know it helped a number of players land scholarships.
Fairfield does have some very good sophomores and they will be given an opportunity when they are needed like the seniors who went through the program waited when they were sophomores. I do not see any Ken Grifffey type players or players that are so outstanding that they would or should skip JV. Those type players come along rarely and when they do I can see why they are moved up. Just my observation.

[GCPRO]

No dog in the hunt, but 16 seniors could pose some possible problems within a team. Kids that are cut look back and think I spent 3 years in a program and expect better. Kids that sit, think the same and expect to get their chance. It's a tough call, want to reward the kids that have been through the wars with you but still play the best kids. In addition it puts your program in trouble the following year with having no one back with experience the following season. Tough call, good luck to the Indians.

[Between the lines]

:angel: durbin is a good hitter but of the people that are listed they cannot hold his jock on defense at first base

eye,
since Fries got over 95% of the reps at first base last year, Haney, Prichard & Shiffey got very little or no time playing there. Durbin is indeed a good defensive player but just how many games have you personally watched these 3 seniors play at first to make a statement like that. They may surprise you over there. I've watched all 3 of them play "D" for over a decade now.

No offense to Mitch, but It will take a major miracle for Durbin to crack the varsity squad as a Sophomore, with these 3 seniors ahead of him. He should be the starter on JV and get plenty of reps and AB's there. Time will tell!
Won't be long now.... Go Indians!

[AmericaOne]

:angel:

eye,
since Fries got over 95% of the reps at first base last year, Haney, Prichard & Shiffey got very little or no time playing there. Durbin is indeed a good defensive player but just how many games have you personally watched these 3 seniors play at first to make a statement like that. They may surprise you over there. I've watched all 3 of them play "D" for over a decade now.

No offense to Mitch, but It will take a major miracle for Durbin to crack the varsity squad as a Sophomore, with these 3 seniors ahead of him. He should be the starter on JV and get plenty of reps and AB's there. Time will tell!
Won't be long now.... Go Indians!

Actually their are other seniors capable of playing first and hitting as well and also some juniors. I think Prichard and Shiffman are legit but i would expect they would use Haney at third or short stop. Haney with some reps could make a very solid short stop, with a strong arm.... Pauley did not play summer nor did he play fall ball and you know my take on kids who do not play summer ball. Their are other players who have comitted to play college baseball that work at the game very hard and should be looked at. Like I said before it should come down to who can consistently hit the ball. Judging defense can be subjective as I have seen some taller first baseman unable to dig out anything, and no disrespect to Fries but he was far from a Gold Glove at first just a senior who hit well. He lacked the ability to make the throw to second on a pick off play and had very little lateral range. He was a good hitter and got the spot. I would hope that hitting would be the criteria, since I can name a few kids with 10 solid years of experience at first and who play great defense during the summer and do not miss a beat.

[The Big X]

Remember FF parents - team chemistry is one of the most important attributes of a strong team. When those 5 1B are not playing and those 6 pitchers are not pitching I hope the positive attitude continues. Remember only one can play at a time. Oh and when the coach tries to get the Jrs and sophs some exprience on varsity for next season ( no way he just plays seniors that would be suicide for next season) keep that positive attitude.:shrug:

[BC4LIFE]

ATTN: Fairfield AD is now accepting reservations for unhappy parents starting the week of April 9. "Lack of playing time" scheduled from 3:00-4:00; "Players not playing/hitting in the right spot" 4:00-5:00; & "Politics in Baseball" 5:00-6:00...Just kidding, good luck to the Indians. Coach Price will lead you in the right direction. Believe in your leader.

[GCPRO]

I'm not real familiar with FF baseball but is the guy serious? Help me out. I only know what I read on here and keeping up with the paper. I did see them play a couple of times last season, but have no idea about some of the kids. Is that what A1 is getting at?

[BC4LIFE]

No, not serious...joke about parents in FF. DO NOT CALL AD FOR RESERVATIONS, it was joke. If anyone believe this, the FF parents and district are in worse shame than I thought.

[GCPRO]

BC4Life-i'm a little more intelligent than that, I realize you were kidding.

[AmericaOne]

Let me guess-Junior America One also plays first?????????

GCPRO: First of all you did not have to lie about not running Badin, you certainly did coach at Badin. And anything I say you will turn into a spin. This thread is to discuss baseball and I feel Fairfield will have an excellent season.. Coach Price is a smart coach and with a year under his belt has things under control. I think that if there is a Freshman, Sophomore or Junior who is better than a senior they should get the job and play on varsity. Their is No Junior America. If you are referring to my son yes he shares first base with other players on my team in the summer as most left handers play first base, but they all must hit the ball....do you understand the word share. My son primarily pitches and has not tried out for first base in high school. Hitting is the most important thing for a first baseman to do.. and since they have a number of players who can play first it is a nice problem to have. Hopefully one or two will step up and produce whomever they may be.

[111411]

America, check your PM's.

[Voice-of-Reason]

GCPRO: First of all you did not have to lie about not running Badin, you certainly did coach at Badin. And anything I say you will turn into a spin. This thread is to discuss baseball and I feel Fairfield will have an excellent season.. Coach Price is a smart coach and with a year under his belt has things under control. I think that if there is a Freshman, Sophomore or Junior who is better than a senior they should get the job and play on varsity. Their is No Junior America. If you are referring to my son yes he shares first base with other players on my team in the summer as most left handers play first base, but they all must hit the ball....do you understand the word share. My son primarily pitches and has not tried out for first base in high school. Hitting is the most important thing for a first baseman to do.. and since they have a number of players who can play first it is a nice problem to have. Hopefully one or two will step up and produce whomever they may be.

I think AmericaOne should offer to assist Coach Price. FF could use his expertise!

[coach1]

FF parents get accused of interfering with coaches decisions,which does happen.I am sure it doesn't happen at the Lakota's, Mason, Loveland, or any GCL school.

[Voice-of-Reason]

I think AmericaOne should offer to assist Coach Price. FF could use his expertise!

note-- This was a joke.

[GCPRO]

America One-Lie is a pretty strong term, I am sorry that your information is incorrect. I have no preconceived ideas regarding yourself or your son. It just seems that you take issue with all things regarding him. I actually know Coach Price and also feel he is a very good coach, not sure where any of the messages I have posted would suggest the contrary. I am sure he is deserving of getting time at first base, and I am sure when the dust settles the best players will get their oppurtunities.
Share-lets see my 4 years in HS and 4 years in college did nothing to develope the precise defintion of that word, so you have me there. My spin-I just seems that you like to throw some terms and ideas out there and I take it upon myself to keep those legit. Truthfully, were you not speaking of your son with regard to the 1st base position? To me that is questioning the integrity of the coaching staff, I hope it all works out for you. I will be sure to look you up during the HS season and say hello. Our differences could be much better handled in person. Good luck to your professional staff.

[The Big X]

Man on a slow day you can always count on FF for some entertainment. It is a soap opera in the fair city.

So I am on topic ----- from seeing the talked about seniors on summer teams, high school ball and fall ball -------- They do not have enough hitting to be a major contender this season. If the guys that are being talked about in this thread are counted on to be the hitters this season FF will struggle to score runs. Their pitching will not be good enough to withstand not being able to score runs. The pitchers being tlaked about in this thread are not good enough to shut down the opposition game in and game out so they need a combination of hitting and pitching. They don't have that.

And - what about the defense? The piching is not dominant so they will need a strong defense. Again, the pitchers being talked about on ths thread are not the type that will strike out a large amount of hitters so defense is a necessity. I think the FF defense will make the pitching staff look worse than it really is.

[AmericaOne]

America One-Lie is a pretty strong term, I am sorry that your information is incorrect. I have no preconceived ideas regarding yourself or your son. It just seems that you take issue with all things regarding him. I actually know Coach Price and also feel he is a very good coach, not sure where any of the messages I have posted would suggest the contrary. I am sure he is deserving of getting time at first base, and I am sure when the dust settles the best players will get their oppurtunities.
Share-lets see my 4 years in HS and 4 years in college did nothing to develope the precise defintion of that word, so you have me there. My spin-I just seems that you like to throw some terms and ideas out there and I take it upon myself to keep those legit. Truthfully, were you not speaking of your son with regard to the 1st base position? To me that is questioning the integrity of the coaching staff, I hope it all works out for you. I will be sure to look you up during the HS season and say hello. Our differences could be much better handled in person. Good luck to your professional staff.

GCPRO: I have no differences with you, you just do not like me, which is fine, even though I only know you from what folks have told me about you. I heard you were a good coach. If lie is too strong maybe like Roger said, you mis-remembered what you used to do, before becoming someone who stirs the pot. Why is it Fairfield can not talk about baseball? You and the Hamilton guys ran the same WSLL thread for 3 months talking about the things good, bad, and wrong with baseball and the LL program? My professional staff is intact and doing very well, thanks I wish you luck also.

[coach1]

Man on a slow day you can always count on FF for some entertainment. It is a soap opera in the fair city.

So I am on topic ----- from seeing the talked about seniors on summer teams, high school ball and fall ball -------- They do not have enough hitting to be a major contender this season. If the guys that are being talked about in this thread are counted on to be the hitters this season FF will struggle to score runs. Their pitching will not be good enough to withstand not being able to score runs. The pitchers being tlaked about in this thread are not good enough to shut down the opposition game in and game out so they need a combination of hitting and pitching. They don't have that.

And - what about the defense? The piching is not dominant so they will need a strong defense. Again, the pitchers being talked about on ths thread are not the type that will strike out a large amount of hitters so defense is a necessity. I think the FF defense will make the pitching staff look worse than it really is.


What I read on here is that people,probably kids don't give anyone credit for off-season work that improves a player. If you are good when you are 12 you are still good when your 18, that's not always the case.I know a lot of FF players that played with top level summer teams against the best in the U.S. Then played fall ball and have been lifting and working out since November. This I know goes on in all schools, however players do get better from hard work.I would much rather have a player that works hard all the time versus a gifted player that thinks he doesn't have to do anything to get better.

[luvdagame]

Man on a slow day you can always count on FF for some entertainment. It is a soap opera in the fair city.

So I am on topic ----- from seeing the talked about seniors on summer teams, high school ball and fall ball -------- They do not have enough hitting to be a major contender this season. If the guys that are being talked about in this thread are counted on to be the hitters this season FF will struggle to score runs. Their pitching will not be good enough to withstand not being able to score runs. The pitchers being tlaked about in this thread are not good enough to shut down the opposition game in and game out so they need a combination of hitting and pitching. They don't have that.

And - what about the defense? The piching is not dominant so they will need a strong defense. Again, the pitchers being talked about on ths thread are not the type that will strike out a large amount of hitters so defense is a necessity. I think the FF defense will make the pitching staff look worse than it really is.

X... I think you hit the nail on the head!

[ilovebeingunknown]

IMO :)
Haney, Prichard, Shiffman, Silvani and Johnson in no particular order.

Then you have Riggs, Burden, and Stern all seniors. One or two of the seniors may not make the varsity squad depending on the Jr.s they want to keep up. No Soph's will make the varsity this season as a pitcher.



I think the FF pitchers that will carry the load this season will be...

Haney-A confident righty who thinks he is better than he is so he wont ever back down from anyone so thats good.

Prichard- a fundamental lefty who gets it done.

Shiffman-A lenghty righty who is smart on the mound.

Johnson-probably the best pitching body build that has come through fairfield since radel or gore he is about 6'3" and very fundamental.

Silvani-A lefty who will rely on his "junk" and location to get people out

Riggs-A lefty who is healthy for the first time and also probably the most athletic pitcher on the roster.

Parker- has had some arm problems just like Riggs but look for him to step up and be the #2 junior pitcher this season.

Elmlinger-I think he will make varsity to give him ecperience he will go back and forth between JV because i dont think all the seniors will make it and they will want experience for next year

people that will float between JV and Varsity will be . . . .
elmlinger
owens

[ilovebeingunknown]

and my projection for the lineup will be

C- groene kigar whitmore (could all start)

1B-Durbin haney prichard shiffman (could all start)

2B-croy hinson

SS- ventling hinson

3B- Pauley hinson haney

RF- schweinfest riggs

LF- gabbard riggs

CF- hathaway holt or riggs (could all start)

DH-Haney Durbin

[ilovebeingunknown]

i also forgot about johnson playing OF

[Between the lines]

Catching and SS will be the biggest need following Ottaway & Bauer. (Defensively speaking) Both Big shoes to fill!

[BG72]

I feel Fairfield will win the GMC. Coach Price is good for 6 to 7 wins himself this season with his small ball philsophy.

[BlueFan82]

GCPRO: I have no differences with you, you just do not like me, which is fine, even though I only know you from what folks have told me about you. I heard you were a good coach. If lie is too strong maybe like Roger said, you mis-remembered what you used to do, before becoming someone who stirs the pot. Why is it Fairfield can not talk about baseball? You and the Hamilton guys ran the same WSLL thread for 3 months talking about the things good, bad, and wrong with baseball and the LL program? My professional staff is intact and doing very well, thanks I wish you luck also.

WOW. Just when I thought the world was turning upside down, I come on
here and see GCPRO and America One exchanging pleasantries! Now I know
all is right with the world!
:stirthepot:

[GCPRO]

Yeah, Bluefan, stick to the whimsical world that is wsll baseball. You venture out into traffic, you might get run over. I have spent the past two weekends watching my son play college baseball, no letter of intent mind-you.
A1-don't like you?????? I don't even know you or have met you, how could I not like you? WOW! I used to tell my mom in kindergarten when people were mean to me. I hope it all works out for you, all those professional instructors and all. Live Big.

[111411]

Enough. No more pizzing contests.

[BlueFan82]

Yeah, Bluefan, stick to the whimsical world that is wsll baseball. You venture out into traffic, you might get run over.


:laugh: Good to see ya! I think my 4100 posts of greatness have pretty
much prepared me for that "run through traffic" but thanks for the advice!
Not going to hate on you if that's what you want. Too much respect for
you, my man. I also can't hate on A-1. He provides a lot of laughs and
entertainment, and sometimes even some good insight. I do think it's still
amazing to see the drama continues to whip up in Fairfield even without
my help. I think they'll have a good team this year and they should compete
in the GMC. I hope Big Blue baseball gives me something to crow about this
year because frankly, it's not been a lot of fun on Eaton Avenue.

[GCPRO]

Bluefan-I think I received a slight reprimand there, wow. Ah yes the greatness, a legend in your own mind. I should know better to steal a FF thread with some wsll verbage, but can't get it out of my mind. Tell all the goofballs over on Eaton Avenue it is all good. How's the board membership? State title in 08?
In any manner baseball is what it is. Go Blue!

[BlueFan82]

Bluefan-I think I received a slight reprimand there, wow. Ah yes the greatness, a legend in your own mind. I should know better to steal a FF thread with some wsll verbage, but can't get it out of my mind. Tell all the goofballs over on Eaton Avenue it is all good. How's the board membership? State title in 08?
In any manner baseball is what it is. Go Blue!

You gotta excuse 411. He gets uptight. But he's alright. We goofballs on south Eaton are just fine. Waiting for the weather to break. Hopefully, the team a block to the north will be just fine as well. I worry about the lack of pitching, though. Don't harbour any bitterness. You are more respected than you know. Bluefan out.

[AmericaOne]

You gotta excuse 411. He gets uptight. But he's alright. We goofballs on south Eaton are just fine. Waiting for the weather to break. Hopefully, the team a block to the north will be just fine as well. I worry about the lack of pitching, though. Don't harbour any bitterness. You are more respected than you know. Bluefan out.

BlueFan82: I liked having lively banter with you, but then again I do not try to hide behind my A-1 name, and people know who I am. 411 does seem like a good guy and wants baseball discussion and not condescending remarks ALL the time, and I respect that. Some folks can not have a discussion without getting nasty. Oh yea MM you do know who I am.... Blue Fan, I do believe your Blue Boys may be in major trouble this season. I do not count Bowling out though since he seems to come up with those 20 win seasons all the time.

[GCPRO]

America One-this will be my last response. I really have no idea. I gather that your son plays at FF and you coach the Heat. I really do not keep up with HS baseball much. I get out to see a couple games a year, watch the Blue a little, or go see what I feel will be a good baseball game. I love baseball discussion, actually feel that I have some pertinent ideas and responses to things I read on here. The Little League crew is way over the top and I am sorry to say this but you seem like that crew. Not trying to be derogatory, just how I see it, I may be wrong. There is always a veiled negativity to your posts regarding the Indian baseball staff. I am sure, like all fathers and coaches you want your son to do well and be rewarded for his efforts. Absolutely nothing wrong with that. I take exception to some of the things you throw out there. I remember early last season you taking the coaching staff to task for some things you were not seeing eye to eye on. I just think this is the wrong forum for that and that is where I am coming from, I believe I said the same thing last year. I really try not to take any of this too serious. It is still just kids playing sports, no life or death issues here. I personally, and my 3 sons have had great experiences playing the game. I have never questioned a coach's ability with regard to my children as my parents didn't for me. I respect that end of it. I was fortunate enough to play the game myself as well as other sports at a relatively high level, it was what is was. All else is just gravy. I apologize for suggesting otherwise.

[AmericaOne]

America One-this will be my last response. I really have no idea. I gather that your son plays at FF and you coach the Heat. I really do not keep up with HS baseball much. I get out to see a couple games a year, watch the Blue a little, or go see what I feel will be a good baseball game. I love baseball discussion, actually feel that I have some pertinent ideas and responses to things I read on here. The Little League crew is way over the top and I am sorry to say this but you seem like that crew. Not trying to be derogatory, just how I see it, I may be wrong. There is always a veiled negativity to your posts regarding the Indian baseball staff. I am sure, like all fathers and coaches you want your son to do well and be rewarded for his efforts. Absolutely nothing wrong with that. I take exception to some of the things you throw out there. I remember early last season you taking the coaching staff to task for some things you were not seeing eye to eye on. I just think this is the wrong forum for that and that is where I am coming from, I believe I said the same thing last year. I really try not to take any of this too serious. It is still just kids playing sports, no life or death issues here. I personally, and my 3 sons have had great experiences playing the game. I have never questioned a coach's ability with regard to my children as my parents didn't for me. I respect that end of it. I was fortunate enough to play the game myself as well as other sports at a relatively high level, it was what is was. All else is just gravy. I apologize for suggesting otherwise.

GCPRO: It may be a good thing that this was your last response because I never illicited a response from you, you chose to exercise your God given right to stir the pot. For someone that does not take any of this too seriously, then why do you continue to nit pick at the word "Professional Staff", when I say I have a College Coaching staff that helps with my summer team. They are profesionals and get paid to coach. You are the one who hides under a veil of secrecy. Since I have continuously stated that Coach Price was and is the right choice, is well respected and like by the players, you have mixed up "taking the coach to task" and discussing baseball. Go to any park in America from youth to Pro and you will hear people talking about what they would have done if they were the coach. You say you are a Fan of baseball then you know that parents, other coaches, and even broadcasters are always discussing what they would do, who they would have put in. Baseball is a game of second guessing. It happens to me when I coach, and I have been successful, and it happens to a lot better coaches than me. It does not bother me. I know it happened to you when you coached, even though you said your parents never questioned your coaching. Somone must have from what I have been told. You are awful sensitive to anyone giving an opinion. I think it is an honor for your son to be playing Collegiate baseball at the D1 level and why it was not published I do not know. My only goal as our 18U Summer team finishes its run, and it has been a great time of baseball over the past 8 seasons, is to continue to help kids that need it get to the next level. Oh yea I did train professional athletes at the professional level, it just wasn't baseball, that is why I try to get guys who know the game to help me..some professional others just good at what they do.

[GCPRO]

I have trained no one professionally or in any professional manner. I would consider Mr. Leon Durham a professional instructor, I have no idea who else is on your staff, but the ones you have mentioned I hardly consider professional. I guess we just disagree on the term. I wholly understand the manner in which parents view youth athletics, I just stated that I beleive this forum to not be the place to air those views. Most coaches I know take their jobs very seriously and try to do their best and try to do right by their players. I coach 11 year old kids, hardly anything to mention about that.

[mofb21]

anyway to get back on topic, IMO, yes the indians can win the GMC as well as can any team in the league. I would think by now that all players pretty well know each other from summer ball and probably take turns beating each others teams. High School ball will be no different they will take turns beating each other in the league also. I don't care how many sophmores, juniors and seniors are on the team, they all compete together on the summer teams and fall ball teams. A good soph will even compete against 18 year olds in these leagues and generally step up and play quite well. Pefect example, just watched the district wrestling tournament and see freshman beating seniors, good players will rise.

[oakhillzkid4]

1. Priceton/Oak Hills
2. Princeton/Oak Hills
3. West
4. Colerain

[OHHS2]

1. Priceton/Oak Hills
2. Princeton/Oak Hills
3. West
4. Colerain

Disagree...

if anything .. 1. Oak Hills/ Colerain 2. Colerain/OakHills 3. Princeton 4 west

Colerain is good
Princeton is good
Oak Hills is good
West id dec. but you have to hold them up there for previous years. . . Ill take colerain over west any day.

[jus do it]

West was ranked 4th in the gmc pre-season polls last year also(the Cincy Enquirer does an unbelievable job of doing this). You guys need to quit worrying about where your team is going to finish and just play ball. All yappi is, is fairfield and oak hills kids wanting people to recognize them. Fairfield has one proven player, michael haney. Oak hills has 2, bluestein and proctor. Nobody else has proven themselves at the varsity level until they do then throw them out there for discussion.

[ilovebeingunknown]

West was ranked 4th in the gmc pre-season polls last year also(the Cincy Enquirer does an unbelievable job of doing this). You guys need to quit worrying about where your team is going to finish and just play ball. All yappi is, is fairfield and oak hills kids wanting people to recognize them. Fairfield has one proven player, michael haney. Oak hills has 2, bluestein and proctor. Nobody else has proven themselves at the varsity level until they do then throw them out there for discussion.

:wallbang: :wallbang: :shrug: :shrug: :hello: :hello: GET A CLUE oak hills has many players that has proved themselves as does fairfield.

[Vike4life94]

How is Oak Hills' offense better than Princeton's when Princeton has more hitters and better team speed?

[ilovebeingunknown]

mark my words


Fairfield Oak Hills Princeton are the top 3 teams in the GMC then Colerain and West then everyone else


but Fairfield oak hills or Princeton will win the league

[TheKid08]

West was ranked 4th in the gmc pre-season polls last year also(the Cincy Enquirer does an unbelievable job of doing this). You guys need to quit worrying about where your team is going to finish and just play ball. All yappi is, is fairfield and oak hills kids wanting people to recognize them. Fairfield has one proven player, michael haney. Oak hills has 2, bluestein and proctor. Nobody else has proven themselves at the varsity level until they do then throw them out there for discussion.

oak hills also has raleigh and malloy which are both d1 prospects.. oak hills will be better than fairfield, west, and princeton.. colerain will have the best team in the league

[jus do it]

kid08 your right i forgot about malloy, good athlete. don't know too much about the raleigh kid though.

[TheKid08]

raleigh is a junior LHP.. one of the top 3 pitchers in the junior class in the GMC with hundley and beaver

[brad01]

So after the first week how are the pitchers and catchers doing? Any suprises?

[Between the lines]

So after the first week how are the pitchers and catchers doing? Any suprises?

where is (Jr.) Micah Parker?

[AmericaOne]

where is (Jr.) Micah Parker?

I heard he was moving to Columbus. Not sure if that is accurate. Either way I think Fairfield will be fine with the pitchers they have. If you do not show up for the first week of tryouts without a major good excuse, you certainly will not make the team...

[ffind18]

I've heard many things about Parker but don't think he'll be showing.. From what I understand there's also a lack of juniors, I thought there was a strong junior class? And also I hear Pauley may not be playing

[ilovebeingunknown]

I heard he was moving to Columbus. Not sure if that is accurate. Either way I think Fairfield will be fine with the pitchers they have. If you do not show up for the first week of tryouts without a major good excuse, you certainly will not make the team...

hathaway showed up today for his first day or try outs and johnson has only been twice so this is big time bull CRAP on price if they make the team even though johnson is good he does not deserve to play and if he makes it after his "no shows" then i can almost GUARANTEE the indian parents will throw a FIT and probably riot haha there are some players out for the team who are busting their azzes to get cut for someone who hasnt even been to tryouts to make it ahead of them!! thats a load of CRAP and I hope the fairfield coaches are reading this because its not just me its all the players in the fairfield program and all the parents of the kids in the program my son tells me how things are and its bull how they can even let someone tryout if they miss a whole week or only come when its their turn to throw off the mound.



it bull crap and the coaches need to not care what your name is or what your ability is its crap and they need to make a point otherwise players year in and year out will walk all over you and i hope their are some even bigger surprises this year than last year with elsen because i would take elsens effort last year over johnsons and hathaways this year !!!!



who agrees and who disagrees? thats just my opinion so dont get angry with me if you disagree remember this is AMERICA and everyone is entitled to their own opinions

[ilovebeingunknown]

if you dont have determination you shouldnt be on the team

[FFBlackStallion]

I have to agree with you 100%. But we'll have to see what happens at the end of tryouts next week.

[Between the lines]

Mabey, just mabey these two young men do not want to pitch ONLY and will be there next week every day with the position players. What if their primary position (IN, OF) is what they want to do? Pitching might just be a second thought if they think they are good enough to earn a spot in the starting 8.

I for one wouldn't blame anyone who just may want to play every inning of every game vs. playing once every five games. You just can't blame someone for wanting more playing time.:blush:

[ilovebeingunknown]

and be honest with me do you think johnson is a better pitcher of a better position player? the FF coaches have limited so many pitchers that can also play positions

[Between the lines]

and be honest with me do you think johnson is a better pitcher of a better position player? the FF coaches have limited so many pitchers that can also play positions


It is the coaches job to get the best talent on the field at all times. Yes, you must also develop some younger players as well. This business of pitcher's not playing when they are not pitching is pure nonsense! If someone throws 100 pitches, then rest him as to not harm the pitching arm. Rest him next game whatever. But let the hitters hit! Some of the pitchers are probably some of the best hitters on this the team. That's how I've always done it!

[luvdagame]

Mabey, just mabey these two young men do not want to pitch ONLY and will be there next week every day with the position players. What if their primary position (IN, OF) is what they want to do? Pitching might just be a second thought if they think they are good enough to earn a spot in the starting 8.

I for one wouldn't blame anyone who just may want to play every inning of every game vs. playing once every five games. You just can't blame someone for wanting more playing time.:blush:

BTL...I agree with you up to a point, however, if a player has even the slightest chance that he may pitch, he should be at the pitcher/catcher workouts everyday working hard along with the rest of his teammates. There seems to be several players at FF that think they are better than they are and that they don't need to workout. Ask some of these guys who have been at the pre-season lifting and hitting sessions how many guys actually showed up. I think some of these guys might just be in for a surprise in a couple of weeks.

[AmericaOne]

It is the coaches job to get the best talent on the field at all times. Yes, you must also develop some younger players as well. This business of pitcher's not playing when they are not pitching is pure nonsense! If someone throws 100 pitches, then rest him as to not harm the pitching arm. Rest him next game whatever. But let the hitters hit! Some of the pitchers are probably some of the best hitters on this the team. That's how I've always done it!

Believe me Coach Price is aware of who is there and who is not. He is also aware of those who do not put in the extra time hitting and doing what it takes to make them better. I have offered FREE hitting to any of the Juniors and Seniors since I do not know all the Sophomores immediately after practice at either the Heat Facility on Pleasant Avenue or at the Heat facility that the Indians practice at on Standen. I have had only a couple of players who do take their swings. And from what I am told they are not hitting elsewhere??? Soft toss, tee work, and live pitching is important and that is what the players do. I do not think they allow hitting during the Catcher/Pitcher phase at school (coached) but nothing says you can not hit after practice. It is important for every player whether they are a pitcher or catcher to be hitting EVERY day now. EVERY DAY...except Sundays maybe.lol

BTL the statement that someone does not want to just pitch so they show up just once or twice to Pitcher/Catchers does not hold water. Especially when that has been their primary role. There are some players who hit very well, who also pitch very well and they are present every day of tryouts... No one player is bigger than the program. The coaches know they have players who can hit and pitch. That does not excuse you from showing up to pitching, if you also pitch..then be there!! I have not seen any super star players at Fairfield who do not need to be at practice. Fairfield has some solid players and they must begin to show unity and a sense of spirit if they are to win. Anyone thinking they can not be replaced will be surprised when they are.
These Juniors and Seniors should be chomping at the bit and want to be at practice.

[eye]

well then bring up the sophs to play varsity, I would rather have a team on the field that gives 100% effort with 80% talent than a team that gives
80% effort with 90% talent.

[coach1]

A1,I personally think that players when given the opportunity to go hit with their buddies really never put forth much effort versus something organized with a/the coach watching.A lot of kids are not driven today with goals. Iwas over at Diamond Stars watching my nephew hit and there was a kid from FF in there hitting with the owner. I didn't catch his name but everybody stopped to watch him hit. He was a tall strong kid. At first I thought he was a college player. I asked him the same question and he said by working out and by hitting on his own he gets much more done.

[AmericaOne]

A1,I personally think that players when given the opportunity to go hit with their buddies really never put forth much effort versus something organized with a/the coach watching.A lot of kids are not driven today with goals. Iwas over at Diamond Stars watching my nephew hit and there was a kid from FF in there hitting with the owner. I didn't catch his name but everybody stopped to watch him hit. He was a tall strong kid. At first I thought he was a college player. I asked him the same question and he said by working out and by hitting on his own he gets much more done.

Coach1: I agree. Working one-on-one with a coach is the best way to do it. That is precisely what I was talking about. Kids who have the opportunity at this time need to take advantage of it. There are people out there willing to help players by throwing to them, working with them on the tee or with soft toss. Not that kids have to, they should want to hit extra, since they are not doing any hitting during practice until next week. Hitting needs to take place after pitching and catching practice whether it is on their own or with an instructor, coach or father. My thing is for Fairfield to win they MUST HIT....and the players who will be playing must take it upon themselves to go out and do it...There are many more indoor places today than 5 or ten years ago.

[Between the lines]

BTL the statement that someone does not want to just pitch so they show up just once or twice to Pitcher/Catchers does not hold water. Especially when that has been their primary role. These Juniors and Seniors should be chomping at the bit and want to be at practice.


Agreed. Now that I give it a second thought, LEADERS lead by EXAMPLE! Show up for EVERY practice and work hard. I even told my own kid to be very INTENSE while working very hard. It will show!

[DirtBall]

mark my words


Fairfield Oak Hills Princeton are the top 3 teams in the GMC then Colerain and West then everyone else


but Fairfield oak hills or Princeton will win the league
Princeton will not win the league and will most likely be middle of the pack. They have good hitting, average to below average fielding, poor pitching (only one pitcher w/ varsity experience), good team speed, poor base running, poor coaching, no pitching coach. Sherlock makes them better at coaching but they are still living off their dream season 3 years ago when they had a very strong senior class but since then it has been about the individuals and coaches egos which has caused the program to decline each year since. Pitching and defense win championships and one pitcher can't last an entire GMC regular season pitching every other game.

[GCPRO]

Does S. Schlager still coach at Princeton? I know he was instrumental in their run to the final 4 in 2005.

[DirtBall]

Does S. Schlager still coach at Princeton? I know he was instrumental in their run to the final 4 in 2005.

Rumor has it that Schlager is not coaching. I beg to differ but he was not instrumental, the players were the ones and if you want to mention coaches Joe Clear and Vince Harrison were the two coaches the players respected and listened to the most. Neither came back as coaches since that year.:shrug:

[AmericaOne]

Rumor has it that Schlager is not coaching. I beg to differ but he was not instrumental, the players were the ones and if you want to mention coaches Joe Clear and Vince Harrison were the two coaches the players respected and listened to the most. Neither came back as coaches since that year.:shrug:

DirtBall: I have heard the same thing. I know a lot of players from Princeton and I have heard nothing but negatives concerning him. I also heard they have a new coach from Moeller who is taking over third base and this is causing some flack.. Rocky Hubbard is a nice coach and I think the players like him. I just do not think he makes the major decisions. Vince is a great guy and does a good job with the hitters.

[GCPRO]

Dirtball- i was sort of saying that tongue in cheek. I really have no idea about his ability as a coach, but his arrival there kind of coincided with their turning around the program. I know he has some college coaching background and was at Middletown a few years. I would think the kids would respect the heck out of Vince Harrison.

[inLOVEwithBASEBALL]

Dirtball- i disagree with your earlier comment about Princeton, yes there pitching may be some what weak but i dont know how you could say that they dont have a shot to win the league with 2 D1 players and 1 other collegiate baseball player in their lineup. There offense will be good with some good senior leadership. I'm by no means saying they will win but i am saying they have a pretty good shot along with Fairfield and a couple of other teams.

[ilovebeingunknown]

here is my honest opinion

I think that the title could be how it was a couple of years ago with a 3 or 4 way tie.

Fairfield
Princeton
Oak Hills
West
Colerain

any one of those 5 teams could win the league it will be a very very fun and interestin season i hope nobody takes any days off and come tourney time i think these teams will be so worn out by beating each other up day in and day out.


and that list i just made was in no order i was just naming

[brad01]

How do you think position player tryouts will go next week? Are there any players that will pitch and play position - freshman through senior - besides Haney?

[AmericaOne]

How do you think position player tryouts will go next week? Are there any players that will pitch and play position - freshman through senior - besides Haney?

brad01: The following pitchers can also hit and play positions. It will be up to the coaches, but I think they will be utilized: David Pritchard can hit well and can play first and the outfield, Gio Silvani can hit well and can play first base, Cody Riggs can hit well and play the outfield, Zak Shiffman can hit well and being a right hander can play first and I think he also use to catch. These are seniors that I know about and have seen play. I know there are some Juniors and a few sophomores who can play well but I have not seen them play.
In the summer most good teams have many pitchers who also play positions and hit when they are not pitching.

We will see soon.

[GCPRO]

At a large school like Fairfield I would tend to think that most of the better pitchers would be pitching only. At the smaller schools you have alot of position players that also pitch but I would think with the numbers at a school the size of FF most kids by the time they are jr./sr. would be position player or pitcher specific. Now granted there are those instances where a kid does both but I would say they are rare at the GMC or GCL level.

[AmericaOne]

At a large school like Fairfield I would tend to think that most of the better pitchers would be pitching only. At the smaller schools you have alot of position players that also pitch but I would think with the numbers at a school the size of FF most kids by the time they are jr./sr. would be position player or pitcher specific. Now granted there are those instances where a kid does both but I would say they are rare at the GMC or GCL level.

GC: I agree with you when there are top level position players available and top level pitchers. We could do that on our summer team easily.. Fairfield is in a position where they do not have a lot of top level position players. I am not sure why the numbers are not there but they just are not. That makes it decison time. Some of the players will have to do both.

[Between the lines]

GC: I agree with you when there are top level position players available and top level pitchers. Fairfield is in a position where they do not have a lot of top level position players. I am not sure why the numbers are not there but they just are not. That makes it decison time. Some of the players will have to do both.

Agreed. FHS needs some solid hitting , and if they do that, they will do well in the GMC. I just hope and pray the coaches will let the real hitters, hit regardless of where they play. Just arrange the 10 best hitters in the lineup and worry about defense late in a 1 or 2 run game. Then bring in your defenive players if need be. If the pitchers aren't hitting, they arenn't winning alot of games.

[GCPRO]

BTL-defense is just as important in the first inning as it is in the final innings. Never quite understood that thought process myself. Solid teams are built on pitching and defense. Good pitching shuts down good offense the vast majority of time, in conference and tourney play, pitching and defense would be at a premium. In HS ball, there are plenty of oppurtunities to manufacture runs. JMO>

[Between the lines]

BTL-defense is just as important in the first inning as it is in the final innings. Never quite understood that thought process myself. Solid teams are built on pitching and defense. Good pitching shuts down good offense the vast majority of time, in conference and tourney play, pitching and defense would be at a premium. In HS ball, there are plenty of oppurtunities to manufacture runs. JMO>

Agreed, pitching & defense is what wins!

I have personally watched and coached this particular group of players for over a decade. The "defensive players" I'm referring to are not head and shoulders better than the others. It is not night and day. What I'm saying is, do not sit 3 or 4 of your best hitters just because they are pitchers. When they pitch, let them pitch (and DH for them if you must) but find a place in the field for each one of them if indeed they are the best hitters that you have. I guess what I'm trying to say is play your best 10 or 12 athletes and let the chips fall where they may. I wouldn't restrict anyones playing time if they can & will hit for you.

[IMHO]

If you can not field the ball you will beat the teams that are not as good as you - ONLY. A-1 should be able to talk about that because he does that all summer. FF will not beat teams that are as good as they are or better unless they think about pitching and defense first.

If you want to be able to make a run for the league title and a run in the state tournament - FF better take care of fielding the ball before they worry about getting a bunch of first baseman some ABs. If not - the FF parents will be up in arms again this season and let the circus begin!!!!!:wallbang:

[Between the lines]

I'm not sure this has anything to do with any parents except you trying to stir something or someone up. The circus is downtown!

What I'm talking about is taking a player that is a better hitter and plugging him into an IF or OF position if/when he is not pitching. I didn't say he has NO DEFENSIVE SKILLS, I said that he should just bat 2 or 3 times a game if that is warrented before he gives way for a faster or more denfensive player in the later innings. If two players are almost equal defensively, then let the better hitter play. That's all, no more, no less. Don't say he cannot hit just because he's a pitcher.

[IMHO]

I'm not sure this has anything to do with any parents except you trying to stir something or someone up. The circus is downtown!

What I'm talking about is taking a player that is a better hitter and plugging him into an IF or OF position if/when he is not pitching. I didn't say he has NO DEFENSIVE SKILLS, I said that he should just bat 2 or 3 times a game if that is warrented before he gives way for a faster or more denfensive player in the later innings. If two players are almost equal defensively, then let the better hitter play. That's all, no more, no less. Don't say he cannot hit just because he's a pitcher.

I guess becasue I don't agree with your opinion that kids (yours?) shoud be given ABs over othe players that can play defense becasue you think they can hit I am stirring a pot.

With my Bozo nose firmly attached - how do you project the beginning of the game as a time for guys that really should be playing 1B to be planted in the line up so they get some ABs at the expense of your "fast and/or defensive" players? Errors in the first inning can be as bad as the late innings. I bet your pitchers will love those kids when they do not make the plays behind them. You are making the assumption that your team will be in the game at the end of the game and that errors at the beginning of the game will not cost you the game. How many high school DH players and or would be 1B does FF have?

[Between the lines]

With my Bozo nose firmly attached - how do you project the beginning of the game as a time for guys that really should be playing 1B to be planted in the line up so they get some ABs at the expense of your "fast and/or defensive" players? Errors in the first inning can be as bad as the late innings. I bet your pitchers will love those kids when they do not make the plays behind them. You are making the assumption that your team will be in the game at the end of the game and that errors at the beginning of the game will not cost you the game. How many high school DH players and or would be 1B does FF have?

I know that at least two, possiblly three of the first basemen (as you referred to them) could be plugged in at C, 3rd, 1B or in the OF without giving up too much "D." I guess you would have to know what are the other options before making that call. As I had mentioned, I've been watchin them all for years. I'm not talking about lumbering, cumbersome no D type players here. They are good athletes for sure. Sorry bout the "clown" comment as I thought you were trying to derail a baseball related post into something it wasn't. (FF parents griping!) I do love your Bozo nose though!

[IMHO]

I know that at least two, possiblly three of the first basemen (as you referred to them) could be plugged in at C, 3rd, 1B or in the OF without giving up too much "D." I guess you would have to know what are the other options before making that call. As I had mentioned, I've been watchin them all for years. I'm not talking about lumbering, cumbersome no D type players here. They are good athletes for sure. Sorry bout the "clown" comment as I thought you were trying to derail a baseball related post into something it wasn't. (FF parents griping!) I do love your Bozo nose though!

Good defense will save more runs than decent offensive players can deliver. You don't "plug" players in at catcher or at 3B if you really want to beat teams that are better than you or better than you. I don't care how long you have been watching kids play.

[Between the lines]

Yes you are right when it comes to playing steller defense, and Yes you are entitled to your opinion and we can end with that.

I guess it all depends on just who will catch or play third since both will be "open spots" this year at FHS. (That's where MY watching part comes in) I know who and what I'm watching and your just debating in a general sense.:angel:

My son's summer team last year averaged 4-6 errors a game and he was pitching in a good many of those games. I do know what you mean when it comes to digging a hole because of poor defense. I mean what's worse than a custom made routine inning-ending double play ball that is turned into a 5 run inning?

We will just have to trust in the coaching staff and hope they play their cards (players) right. And that's my opinion! But there is a good bit of talent on this heavily senior-laden team. It won't be long now.

[AmericaOne]

I guess becasue I don't agree with your opinion that kids (yours?) shoud be given ABs over othe players that can play defense becasue you think they can hit I am stirring a pot.

With my Bozo nose firmly attached - how do you project the beginning of the game as a time for guys that really should be playing 1B to be planted in the line up so they get some ABs at the expense of your "fast and/or defensive" players? Errors in the first inning can be as bad as the late innings. I bet your pitchers will love those kids when they do not make the plays behind them. You are making the assumption that your team will be in the game at the end of the game and that errors at the beginning of the game will not cost you the game. How many high school DH players and or would be 1B does FF have?

IMHO: I thought we were through with you ignorant remarks. Yes my summer teams win a lot. But you have not commented on here for awhile and as I remember you are an antagonist who has nothing healthy or important to say about the parents, players or coaches in Fairfield. So go to another thread and spew your stupidity. We are talking about players who hit, pitch, and win and if those happen to be our kids then so be it. Obviously if you follow baseball you would know that the kids mentioned all excell in baseball. Some when given the chance proved they were good enough to play school ball and continue to do well when and where ever they play, summer or spring High School ball. So take your ignorant comments to another thread, you do not care how Fairfield does, but we do...

[IMHO]

IMHO: I thought we were through with you ignorant remarks. Yes my summer teams win a lot. But you have not commented on here for awhile and as I remember you are an antagonist who has nothing healthy or important to say about the parents, players or coaches in Fairfield. So go to another thread and spew your stupidity. We are talking about players who hit, pitch, and win and if those happen to be our kids then so be it. Obviously if you follow baseball you would know that the kids mentioned all excell in baseball. Some when given the chance proved they were good enough to play school ball and continue to do well when and where ever they play, summer or spring High School ball. So take your ignorant comments to another thread, you do not care how Fairfield does, but we do...

:laugh: Wow!!!!!! A-1 I ask a question about defense in baseball and you go all out on me!!!!! What is wrong big man did I hit a nerve? What is stupid about saying that in order to beat teams as good as you or better than you you better be able to play good defense. You can't give extra outs to good teams they will kill you. But I guess that would be something you don't know much about do you?

By the way I do follow baseball and I would venture to say baased on your post that I know as much if not more than you and your buddy WHats my line? do? Other than that I don't think I have said anything about FF parents, coaches and or players other tha I have enjoyed reading the circus stuff you guys have gone thru the past few years, of which you have had a big hand in.

[ilovebeingunknown]

ok i dont care what anyone says if i werethe coach at fairfield my starting lineup would be


C-Whitmore
1B-Shiffman
2B-Croy
SS-Ventling
3B-Haney
RF-Schweinfest
CF-Holt
LF-Riggs
DH-Prichard


Pitchers would be
Haney
Prichard
Shiffman
Riggs
Silvani
Johnson
Elmlinger

[AmericaOne]

:laugh: Wow!!!!!! A-1 I ask a question about defense in baseball and you go all out on me!!!!! What is wrong big man did I hit a nerve? What is stupid about saying that in order to beat teams as good as you or better than you you better be able to play good defense. You can't give extra outs to good teams they will kill you. But I guess that would be something you don't know much about do you?

By the way I do follow baseball and I would venture to say baased on your post that I know as much if not more than you and your buddy WHats my line? do? Other than that I don't think I have said anything about FF parents, coaches and or players other tha I have enjoyed reading the circus stuff you guys have gone thru the past few years, of which you have had a big hand in.

IMHO: The only nerve you hit with me is that you have nothing constructive to say. It was that way two years ago when you were last on here and it still is. There is no circus in FF just concern for our team. Which has a strong tradition of winning. A question was asked about pitchers who could also play the field and hit. It was answered and then the negative comments come out from the peanut gallery. This is a FF thread why don't you just read enjoy and truly learn something about baseball.

[IMHO]

IMHO: The only nerve you hit with me is that you have nothing constructive to say. It was that way two years ago when you were last on here and it still is. There is no circus in FF just concern for our team. Which has a strong tradition of winning. A question was asked about pitchers who could also play the field and hit. It was answered and then the negative comments come out from the peanut gallery. This is a FF thread why don't you just read enjoy and truly learn something about baseball.

I am sorry I must have missed the only FF people are allowed to post on this thread. Is that a part of YAPPI that I have missed? I have been here you just have missed me.

Do you have problems reading? Your buddy Whats my line? posted that the coaches should just plug players that he feels hit the ball better than others into the line up so they get ABs and then put the defensive players in at the end. DO you have a problem with someone feeling that the defensive part of baseball is more important than what you guys are giving it IF YOU WANT TO BEAT TEAMS THAT ARE AS GOOD IF NOT BETTER THAN YOU ARE? If you knew as much as you are trying to say you do on here you would be he one talking about making sure the best defensive team is on the field for FF becasue the type of pitcher you have there is not the type that is going to dominate a game to the effect that they are not dependant on having guys behind them that will field the ball. Oh well you guys know so much about the players there - you don't even appear to know the type of pitchers you have. You beter have a good defense or you won't win anything.

Pitchers that don't strike out alot of guys + not a good defense + not a strong offensive team = a long year watching them play.

Is that what you want?

By the way - other than attack me what have you added to the conversation with your infinite baseball wisdom? Maybe you should talk to all those professional coaches you have.

[AmericaOne]

I am sorry I must have missed the only FF people are allowed to post on this thread. Is that a part of YAPPI that I have missed? I have been here you just have missed me.

Do you have problems reading? Your buddy Whats my line? posted that the coaches should just plug players that he feels hit the ball better than others into the line up so they get ABs and then put the defensive players in at the end. DO you have a problem with someone feeling that the defensive part of baseball is more important than what you guys are giving it IF YOU WANT TO BEAT TEAMS THAT ARE AS GOOD IF NOT BETTER THAN YOU ARE? If you knew as much as you are trying to say you do on here you would be he one talking about making sure the best defensive team is on the field for FF becasue the type of pitcher you have there is not the type that is going to dominate a game to the effect that they are not dependant on having guys behind them that will field the ball. Oh well you guys know so much about the players there - you don't even appear to know the type of pitchers you have. You beter have a good defense or you won't win anything.

Pitchers that don't strike out alot of guys + not a good defense + not a strong offensive team = a long year watching them play.

Is that what you want?

By the way - other than attack me what have you added to the conversation with your infinite baseball wisdom? Maybe you should talk to all those professional coaches you have.

IMHO: Nothing wrong with constructive criticism. You are right a good defense with good pitching will help win games. I think we will have a good defense, and do have good pitchers. Haney, Prichard, Silvani, pitched well against some of the best teams last season holding some very good teams to 3 runs or less. If your pitchers hold the opposition to 3 runs or fewer the game should be won. My concern is for hitting and run production. We lost some 3-1 games to good teams. That will happen again if we do not get hitting and run production. I did not mean to attack you I just remember some heated discussions back a few years and have not heard from you. You would be surprised at what my Professional coaches say...

[Voice-of-Reason]

It Is Reaffirmed! Fairfield Baseball Parents Are A Joke!

The Coaches And Players Are Fine...good Luck To Them.

But The Parents Are A Bad Soap Opera!

[GCPRO]

WOW! Double WOW! How does a general discussion on the points of baseball always turn to personal attacks. I thought it was just me but now I see it is not that way. I would be interested to know what the "professional" coaches have to say. Three weeks to go until first pitch, this could get fun.

[brad01]

It Is Reaffirmed! Fairfield Baseball Parents Are A Joke!

The Coaches And Players Are Fine...good Luck To Them.

But The Parents Are A Bad Soap Opera!

Please don't lump all Fairfield parents together. As you can see by reading the posts, there are many asking questions and being positive. A-1 and Between the Lines make the rest of us look bad. Really, some just want to learn about the kids on team and enjoy some communication.

[AnUnbiasedOpinion]

WOW! Double WOW! How does a general discussion on the points of baseball always turn to personal attacks. I thought it was just me but now I see it is not that way. I would be interested to know what the "professional" coaches have to say. Three weeks to go until first pitch, this could get fun.

Look at IMHO's posts on this thread. He made it personal from the onset. You guys have nothing better to do but troll I guess...

[IMHO]

Look at IMHO's posts on this thread. He made it personal from the onset. You guys have nothing better to do but troll I guess...

You entitled to your unbiased opinion but all I have done is state my opinion that it is better to think about having a strong defense ( especially when your pitching staff is not the dominant type) than to plug players into positions so they can get ABs and worry about defense later in the game. I think that is a very short sighted way of looking at baseball strategy.

Am I not also entitled to state my opinion without getting attacked like Big A-1 and What's my line? did to me? I think those two may be too close to the situation to really be objective if youknow what I mean!!!!

[GCPRO]

Unbiased-I read all the posts and fail to see how it was personal. It seems that when a statement is taken to task it is deemed personal. I don't consider that to be trolling. The truth, I guess, is much like beauty, in the eye of the beholder.

[AnUnbiasedOpinion]

Unbiased-I read all the posts and fail to see how it was personal. It seems that when a statement is taken to task it is deemed personal. I don't consider that to be trolling. The truth, I guess, is much like beauty, in the eye of the beholder.

From IMHO's first post on this thread:

If you can not field the ball you will beat the teams that are not as good as you - ONLY. A-1 should be able to talk about that because he does that all summer....

You don't see anything personal in that statement? Or are you still just trolling? Smile, I guess, because you just got another bite...

[IMHO]

From IMHO's first post on this thread:

If you can not field the ball you will beat the teams that are not as good as you - ONLY. A-1 should be able to talk about that because he does that all summer....

You don't see anything personal in that statement? Or are you still just trolling? Smile, I guess, because you just got another bite...

No that statement was meant to get a response in support for my first sentence about beating teams that are not as good as you are not to be attacked.

Enough already - you try to talk baseball with you guys and all you do is attack people. By the way do you have anything to add to the conversation or are you just trolling around?

[AmericaOne]

Please don't lump all Fairfield parents together. As you can see by reading the posts, there are many asking questions and being positive. A-1 and Between the Lines make the rest of us look bad. Really, some just want to learn about the kids on team and enjoy some communication.
How do you think position player tryouts will go next week? Are there any players that will pitch and play position - freshman through senior - besides Haney?





brad01: Do not listen to V of R, he is another instigator.. You asked this question above and I answered it. Did you really want to know? Then people who are not from FF decide to come on and make snide remarks. I for one will not back down when it comes to those tactics. GCPRO had a good point and I agreed with him concerning the school size. If you have coached with or against most of these young men then you should have some understanding of how they are on the field.

V of R : If we are a joke then you are a bigger joke. You ONLY talk negatively about people and especially FF parents. Some of the parents happen to coach successful summer teams and programs, not just myself.. You just like to :stirthepot: and talk about FF parents. Check the other threads out, there are parents talking about their respective school teams and nobody calling them "jokes". Discussions on who may play, who has improved, etc. Check the FAVC, MVC, and all the rest.. On this thread it is alright until outside agitators who care nothing about Fairfield come on and start stuff. We care about our team. Most of our kids have gone here from K thru 12 and we do things to help the program.

[AmericaOne]

No that statement was meant to get a response in support for my first sentence about beating teams that are not as good as you are not to be attacked.

Enough already - you try to talk baseball with you guys and all you do is attack people. By the way do you have anything to add to the conversation or are you just trolling around?

IMHO: So that statement about summer was a positive statement, wanting a response because I know so much about baseball??? Unbiased Opinion saw the same thing I saw and he called you out on it. If you do not want others to attack you then do not make statements that covertly :stirthepot: .
If you truly wanted to talk baseball none of this would be happening.

[Voice-of-Reason]

V of R : If we are a joke then you are a bigger joke. You ONLY talk negatively about people and especially FF parents. Some of the parents happen to coach successful summer teams and programs, not just myself.. You just like to :stirthepot: and talk about FF parents. Check the other threads out, there are parents talking about their respective school teams and nobody calling them "jokes". Discussions on who may play, who has improved, etc. Check the FAVC, MVC, and all the rest.. On this thread it is alright until outside agitators who care nothing about Fairfield come on and start stuff. We care about our team. Most of our kids have gone here from K thru 12 and we do things to help the program.

Is this how you "help" the program? By second guessing the FF coaches on a regular basis. You may be the biggest JOKE of all. You speak as if you invented the game. Maybe Price should consult you on his roster and how to utilize his players. You seem to have all the answers!!! lol

[AmericaOne]

Is this how you "help" the program? By second guessing the FF coaches on a regular basis. You may be the biggest JOKE of all. You speak as if you invented the game. Maybe Price should consult you on his roster and how to utilize his players. You seem to have all the answers!!! lol

VoR: I am not second guessing the coaches. I was answering a question. You are really something... I have not mentioned anything concerning FF coaching NOTHING......Coach Price is a very good professional coach who has done an excellent job. He does not need me, you or anyone telling him anything. This thread is for discussion of baseball and primarily High School baseball. Nothing wrong with discussing baseball. Why do you come on here? Do you ever have anything positive to say? Instead of calling the FF parents names. I guess you must not be a FF parent, and if not why do you care about FF business. There is No reason in your voice so keep it to yourself...What have you done for baseball??? Nothing again. So you should be voice of nothing....

[Voice-of-Reason]

VoR:What have you done for baseball??? Nothing again. So you should be voice of nothing....

I am quite confidant I have accomplished a little more than you in baseball.

I do not have a problem with most FF parents....only the arrogant ones. You know, ones like yourself.

:stirthepot:

[IMHO]

IMHO: So that statement about summer was a positive statement, wanting a response because I know so much about baseball??? Unbiased Opinion saw the same thing I saw and he called you out on it. If you do not want others to attack you then do not make statements that covertly :stirthepot: .
If you truly wanted to talk baseball none of this would be happening.

Isn't the title of the thread is Will FF win the GMC or something like that. Where does it say only FF people can post?

Come on A-1 talk some baseball. All you do is spout off about your pro coaches and what they are saying about your players and you attack anyone who says something different than you as not being in the know or having an agenda. Come on big guy talk some baseball!!!!

I have to laugh your buddy Whats my line? talks about his kids team averaging 5 or 6 errors a game. My gosh - I am glad I don't have to watch that display of baseball and you guys think you can tell others how to pick a baseball team? I guarentee - ANY team averaging 5 or 6 errors a game is not beating anyone that is good. Tell me I am wrong with some evidence!!!!

Again I will say and all you have done is attack me - with the type of pitchers FF has they NEED a strong defense behind them in order to beat teams that are as good or better than them. I am not attacking the pitchers quality at all - I am saying they are not the type of pitchers that will blow other batters away so they need fielders to make plays behind them. That is what I have been saying all along - you and What my line? have been the ones attacking me.

[GCPRO]

I am obviously not a FF parent, yet I do like posting my comments on this thread if I may. While I agree that A1 has not directly criticized the present FF staff I feel his comments regarding playing the kids that can hit or the kids that do well in the summer could be construed as questioning their coaching ability. Now that Coach Price has been given the "professional" adjective next to his name, all should be good though. It also occurs to me that last season there were some general rumblings about who was the given the chance to pitch and such. Maybe I am trolling, but I normally try to be pretty unbiased in my observations. That is specifically where I differ from the vast majority. I see this forum as no place to bash the coaching staff. I am sure their decisions will be made for the good of the program, with or without the parents' blessings.

[IMHO]

I am obviously not a FF parent, yet I do like posting my comments on this thread if I may. While I agree that A1 has not directly criticized the present FF staff I feel his comments regarding playing the kids that can hit or the kids that do well in the summer could be construed as questioning their coaching ability. Now that Coach Price has been given the "professional" adjective next to his name, all should be good though. It also occurs to me that last season there were some general rumblings about who was the given the chance to pitch and such. Maybe I am trolling, but I normally try to be pretty unbiased in my observations. That is specifically where I differ from the vast majority. I see this forum as no place to bash the coaching staff. I am sure their decisions will be made for the good of the program, with or without the parents' blessings.

Is a "professional " coach one that gets paid to coach or one that coaches professionals?

[GCPRO]

I would have guessed it to mean one that coaches professionals. If the other, there are plenty around getting paid that have no business doing so. Having said that, I once had the great oppurtunity(way back in the day) to work some camps in Florida that included mostly minor league and big league instructors. While I am sure they were quite knowledgeable about the game, they were not the best teachers of it. They were much more concerned with the paycheck. JMO!

[ilovebeingunknown]

who do you think will start for the indians? at all positions

[AmericaOne]

I am obviously not a FF parent, yet I do like posting my comments on this thread if I may. While I agree that A1 has not directly criticized the present FF staff I feel his comments regarding playing the kids that can hit or the kids that do well in the summer could be construed as questioning their coaching ability. Now that Coach Price has been given the "professional" adjective next to his name, all should be good though. It also occurs to me that last season there were some general rumblings about who was the given the chance to pitch and such. Maybe I am trolling, but I normally try to be pretty unbiased in my observations. That is specifically where I differ from the vast majority. I see this forum as no place to bash the coaching staff. I am sure their decisions will be made for the good of the program, with or without the parents' blessings.

GCPRO: I am not questioning anyones ability when I talk about the kids who do well in the summer. It is being misconstrued. I am expressing my opinion which is the same as anyone elses. I happen to have some very good players that can pitch, play multiple positions, and also hit..and some can hit and pitch, others can not. I was giving my opinion and that is what the forum is for. I do not bash coaches, and do not call parents names, since we ALL are parents. If you notice the media gives the coaches and management at the Professional Level grief and second guessing each and every day.... We have no problem talking about Sidney players on their thread,,,,, which you posted on not long ago. The guy on that thread who speaks all the time and is a parent of a Sidney player. Why is it only FF that gets guys like IMHO going. BTL was right his only agenda is starting stuff. he only comes on when BTL or myself post it seems. You and I seem to differ on the term professional. Professional to me means someone who 1. Gets paid for coaching, teaching, training or otherwise imparting knowledge or skills to someone, 2. Carries themselves in a Professional manner while doing this 3. Knows quite a bit about what he teaches whether or not he ever played at the Professional Level.... Their are Professional Baseball players who can not teach hitting or pitching and will tell you such. They may be Professional Players but not professional teachers...Again, I feel Coach Price is a good coach and a well respected person. He has the respect of the players, parents, and the Fairfield community... He wants to continue the tradition of Great Baseball at Fairfield High School and we are behind him...

[IMHO]

GCPRO: I am not questioning anyones ability when I talk about the kids who do well in the summer. It is being misconstrued. I am expressing my opinion which is the same as anyone elses. I happen to have some very good players that can pitch, play multiple positions, and also hit..and some can hit and pitch, others can not. I was giving my opinion and that is what the forum is for. I do not bash coaches, and do not call parents names, since we ALL are parents. If you notice the media gives the coaches and management at the Professional Level grief and second guessing each and every day.... We have no problem talking about Sidney players on their thread,,,,, which you posted on not long ago. The guy on that thread who speaks all the time and is a parent of a Sidney player. Why is it only FF that gets guys like IMHO going. BTL was right his only agenda is starting stuff. he only comes on when BTL or myself post it seems. You and I seem to differ on the term professional. Professional to me means someone who 1. Gets paid for coaching, teaching, training or otherwise imparting knowledge or skills to someone, 2. Carries themselves in a Professional manner while doing this 3. Knows quite a bit about what he teaches whether or not he ever played at the Professional Level.... Their are Professional Baseball players who can not teach hitting or pitching and will tell you such. They may be Professional Players but not professional teachers...Again, I feel Coach Price is a good coach and a well respected person. He has the respect of the players, parents, and the Fairfield community... He wants to continue the tradition of Great Baseball at Fairfield High School and we are behind him...

There you go attacking me again - can you just talk baseball just once?????? Why is it that you can spout off about your opinion but others can not without you attacking them?

I have not thrown out a very tough concept to you in my posts - Whats my line? posted that FF should just plug guys in the line up at the catcher, 3B, 1B and OF positions to get them ABs so the best sticks are in the line up and worry about the defense in the later innings. I think that is ludicrous!!!!!! You can not play in the field with 4 first baseman just to get them ABs and WIN AGAINST GOOD COMPETITION. Especially with a pitching staff made up of kids who will not strike out alot of batters. Get off your soap box about your players and your team and talk baseball!!!!!!

[GCPRO]

A1-I do find it rather curious that you are worried about IMHO and Voice of Reason taking you to task on a FF thread when not too long ago you were on the WSLL thread dogging me. If you are capable, just let the comments go and there is nothing to argue about. As far as the "professional" tag, just don't agree with the thinking but that is fine, it works for you and your program and that truly is all that matters.

[IMHO]

A1-I do find it rather curious that you are worried about IMHO and Voice of Reason taking you to task on a FF thread when not too long ago you were on the WSLL thread dogging me. If you are capable, just let the comments go and there is nothing to argue about. As far as the "professional" tag, just don't agree with the thinking but that is fine, it works for you and your program and that truly is all that matters.

Very disappointing post and I thought you were a baseball guy!!!

[111411]

Gentlemen, back on topic. Next off topic post and this thread is history. Stick to baseball and stop pizzing at each other.

[coach1]

Thank you 111111444444111111

[Between the lines]

ok i dont care what anyone says if i werethe coach at fairfield my starting lineup would be


C-Whitmore
1B-Shiffman
2B-Croy
SS-Ventling
3B-Haney
RF-Schweinfest
CF-Holt
LF-Riggs
DH-Prichard


Pitchers would be
Haney
Prichard
Shiffman
Riggs
Silvani
Johnson
Elmlinger

You left off Gabbard (2-year starter in LF) Kigar & Grone behind the dish, and Hinson as a MI?

[GCPRO]

IMHO-i try to be. sorry to disappoint.

[IMHO]

IMHO-i try to be. sorry to disappoint.


:laugh: :laugh:
I know you are . I was just pulling your chain.

On topic:

Thread is titled "Will FF will the GMC"

Answer - if they try to get kids ABs that are for the most part defensively 1B at the expense of kids that can field - NO!!!!!!!!!

Their less than effective defense will pull the pitching staff down to a level that will not win against good teams. Bad defensive teams finish in the middle of the pack.

[BG72]

:laugh: :laugh:
I know you are . I was just pulling your chain.

On topic:

Thread is titled "Will FF will the GMC"

Answer - if they try to get kids ABs that are for the most part defensively 1B at the expense of kids that can field - NO!!!!!!!!!

Their less than effective defense will pull the pitching staff down to a level that will not win against good teams. Bad defensive teams finish in the middle of the pack.
Coach Price will have them contend for the GMC title.












































I disagree, Coach Price will have them contend for the title. I feel Coach Price will be

[ilovebeingunknown]

BTL i feel that whitmore could start honestly he is good and his work ethic is there plus he is young so he can get some ecperience

as for gabbard well just ask some of the FF players about him this year.

and hinson i just think he can not hit well enough and isnt smooth enough to contend for a spot in the lineup so i think he will be the utility guy.

[luvdagame]

BTL i feel that whitmore could start honestly he is good and his work ethic is there plus he is young so he can get some ecperience

as for gabbard well just ask some of the FF players about him this year.

and hinson i just think he can not hit well enough and isnt smooth enough to contend for a spot in the lineup so i think he will be the utility guy.

Perhaps Whitmore is good, but starting ahead of 2 senior catchers--one with some varsity experience is going to be tough. He'd be better off on JV getting some playing time--along with Holt and Elmlinger. I'm not quite sure how to interpret your statement about Gabbard, but I guess you feel he isn't quite cutting it. As for Hinson, you are wrong becasue he is a smooth fielder with a better arm than Ventling or Croy--but his bat is a question mark.

The jump from Freshmen ball to varsity is a big one. The pitching is far better, and the game itself is faster. Just because you guys had a good season last year doesn't mean you're ready for varsity--especially with the number of upper classmen that are there. These sophs that you mention all the time in your posts are good players, but I think they would be better off on JV getting at bats and playing time, and then if they prove themselves, perhaps later in the year they might be moved up. Last year, players were constantly being moved up and down between JV and varsity.

There are a few guys that have had 2 good seasons for FF (Freshman and JV) that also should be in the mix to make the team. They are Hathaway(OF), Constable (IF), Owens (P) and Woods (IF & OF). Hathaway is a very good, fast out fielder with a good arm, OK hitter. Constable is a good infielder that can play a variety of positions and hit the crap out of the ball last year. Owens is a very nice pitcher with good velocity and breaking ball and a decent hitter. Woods can play a variety of positions, is very fast, works hard and hits well.

[AmericaOne]

BTL i feel that whitmore could start honestly he is good and his work ethic is there plus he is young so he can get some ecperience

as for gabbard well just ask some of the FF players about him this year.

and hinson i just think he can not hit well enough and isnt smooth enough to contend for a spot in the lineup so i think he will be the utility guy.

Kris Kigar is a workaholic, Senior with Varsity experience. He hit all off-season with Bull Durham, and caught just about everyone who pitched at Champions. He hits every day at one of the Heat Facilities. He has played in big games in the summer and should be the starting catcher for Fairfield. The other kid should get his reps on JV., see what he can do and then he will be ready for the next two seasons.

[JUST THE TRUTH]

All you yappers are missing one of the biggest factors for any team,which is chemistry.That brings up the big question;will the coaching staff do what's right where Alex Johnson is concerned? Will they cut him and give him what he asked for or will they keep him and send the message to the taem that if we think you're good enough you can do what ever you want and we'll take you. Please note I said,The RIGHT THING to do is cut him! Any thoughts?

[mofb21]

what has he done or not done to be considered for being cut

[JUST THE TRUTH]

Lack of participation,only showed up 3 out 10 chances for Picthers and Catchers!

[deerhunter]

Has any of the ff kids signed letters of intent

[ilovebeingunknown]

on the GMC website it shows that there have been 8 players to sign

NAME SCHOOL COLLEGE
Jimmy Brenneman - Lakota West - Lincoln Trail
Colt Cattani - Lakota East - Lincoln Trail Junior College
Casey Henn - Colerain - Wright State University
Andrew McPheters - Colerain - Taylor University
Cody Riggs - Fairfield - Shawnee State
Randy Weinel - Princeton - Ohio Dominican University
Dorian West - Princeton - University of Cincinnati
BJ Willis - Princeton - University of Cincinnati

[GCPRO]

A1's son whom attends FF has signed with Miami-Hamilton. Not sure of his name and they have a boatload of seniors so it would be just supposition on my part. I would think it should be included on the GMC website however.

[ilovebeingunknown]

agreed i also forgot ryan groene has signed with sinclair so that would make 3

riggs-shawnee state
silvani- miami hamilton
groene-sinclair

haney
prichard
schweinfest
ventling
kigar

i think all them will decide sometime soon not to sure though

[ilovebeingunknown]

but again i dont know why it would have riggs on the website and not groene or silvani especially if they are from the same school

[deerhunter]

What about the other senior catcher, why would he not be the starter? How do you know that he doesnt work just as hard as Kigar? They are both good catchers, maybe they should get the spot on who hits. I agree the sophmore catcher should get his experience on JV where he will have playing time. These two boys have worked hard for the past three years to not play.

[GCPRO]

Is Mike Schweinfest of Midland Redskin lore the father of the Schweinfest youngster?

[AmericaOne]

Is Mike Schweinfest of Midland Redskin lore the father of the Schweinfest youngster?

Yes Schweinfest is the father. He also coached summer ball while his son was playing with the Cincinnati Extreme and with Roche Croy's Sting.

[deerhunter]

Lack of participation,only showed up 3 out 10 chances for Picthers and Catchers!

I agree, if you don't show up for tryouts how are you trying out? 3 times out of 10 is not participating. These kids give up 3 weeks for tryouts. Lack of participation should be noted by the coaches.

[AmericaOne]

What about the other senior catcher, why would he not be the starter? How do you know that he doesnt work just as hard as Kigar? They are both good catchers, maybe they should get the spot on who hits. I agree the sophmore catcher should get his experience on JV where he will have playing time. These two boys have worked hard for the past three years to not play.

Kigar works out at Champions and the Ohio Heat sites with Bull, and caught for Bricker at Champions. Nothing against Ryan Groene, he is a good player I just have seen more of Kris. Kris blocks the ball very well and has a strong arm. I am not sure about hitting but if Kigar hits how he has been with Bull I would say he should have a very good High School season. Kigar in the past went to Doug S and from what he has told me he has learned more about hitting in 3-4 months than the 5 years he was with Doug. Haney hit with Bull and I think he will rake this season also. Bull is a very good hitting instructor who teaches kids to hit for power and contact as evidenced by the hitting prowess of Detroit and the Mud Hens. A World Series appearance for Detroit and two back to back Governors Cups for the Mud Hens. He often has AAA prospects at the Heat Faciltiy on Pleasant and teaches the High School players the same type techniques.

[AmericaOne]

I agree, if you don't show up for tryouts how are you trying out? 3 times out of 10 is not participating. These kids give up 3 weeks for tryouts. Lack of participation should be noted by the coaches.

Agreed. Without some major excuses, most kids who miss just a couple of days of tryouts would be looking to sit out the year in the stands. Did he miss sporadically or were they all at one time. There will be some big decisions to make. We will have to wait and see. I am sure the coaches know what is going on and will do the right thing...

[GCPRO]

I have a question regarding today's HS players having their own "professional" instructors. When the HS athlete goes to play for his HS team are there issues regarding coaching/teaching fundamentals of the swing or pitching? I can see kids that hat/pitch all winter long with their instructor yet maybe their HS staff sees doing things differently. Who does the kid trust? In a situation with an instructor like Leon Durham, knowing he has reported to spring training and will be gone I guess until late summer, who does this young man/woman fall back on. What if their HS staff has a totally different hitting/pitching philosophy? It would seem to be an issue for all involved. No one wants to see a HS athlete fail, but in a sport like baseball, failure is a given at some point. When those fine-tuned points need to be reinforced who does the athlete turn to? Just a thought. I have read much about the kids and their private instructors, heck now it is even going on in the 10-12 year old ages. Especially with hitting there are many different philosophies out there that are good for different types of players.
If a kid misses 7 of 10 practice sessions I would suggest he has no interest in playing. JMO! Not my problem, obviously.

[IMHO]

I have a question regarding today's HS players having their own "professional" instructors. When the HS athlete goes to play for his HS team are there issues regarding coaching/teaching fundamentals of the swing or pitching? I can see kids that hat/pitch all winter long with their instructor yet maybe their HS staff sees doing things differently. Who does the kid trust? In a situation with an instructor like Leon Durham, knowing he has reported to spring training and will be gone I guess until late summer, who does this young man/woman fall back on. What if their HS staff has a totally different hitting/pitching philosophy? It would seem to be an issue for all involved. No one wants to see a HS athlete fail, but in a sport like baseball, failure is a given at some point. When those fine-tuned points need to be reinforced who does the athlete turn to? Just a thought. I have read much about the kids and their private instructors, heck now it is even going on in the 10-12 year old ages. Especially with hitting there are many different philosophies out there that are good for different types of players.
If a kid misses 7 of 10 practice sessions I would suggest he has no interest in playing. JMO! Not my problem, obviously.

GCPro - I think you have hit the nail on the head regarding the use of "professional" instructors. The player must have the ability to listen to what the instructoris showing him AND develop those lessons into his everyday routine and/or fundamentals. If not it is a waste of time and money to pay the instructor over the winter. Those instructors are not part of the coaching staff during the summer for these kids especially the 10-16 year olds. I have seen kids who go to an instructor all winter but you see them in the summer and their swing is all messed up to the point you have to laugh that they paid someone to work on thier swing.

[GCPRO]

It has been my experience that kids at any age level only get better, whether it be pitching or hitting, in competitive situations. There has to be an obvious understanding of the swing or pitching mechanics through repetition learned in cage/tee work or through throwing bullpens or flat ground work. Yet only during a competitive situation can those same fundamentals be reinforced. We have all seen BP all-americans, yet when the horn sounds those kids struggle. Competitive practice situations can only help reinforce those learned mechanics. I am sure that Leon Durham and anyone else with his background are great instructors, yet if that coach cannot be on sight how does that young hitter/pitcher ever get over the hump when struggling? In baseball, all athletes struggle at some point. An athletes ego is very fragile. An 0-4 with 4 great at bats can put a kid into a tailspin and where is that reinforcement? A pitcher throws the pitch exactly where he wanted yet a hitter just makes a great play on the pitch, where is the reinforcement to ensure that kid he did everything right yet sometimes good hitters make good plays. Do those situations open up a contradiction in teaching philosophies?

[AmericaOne]

I have a question regarding today's HS players having their own "professional" instructors. When the HS athlete goes to play for his HS team are there issues regarding coaching/teaching fundamentals of the swing or pitching? I can see kids that hat/pitch all winter long with their instructor yet maybe their HS staff sees doing things differently. Who does the kid trust? In a situation with an instructor like Leon Durham, knowing he has reported to spring training and will be gone I guess until late summer, who does this young man/woman fall back on. What if their HS staff has a totally different hitting/pitching philosophy? It would seem to be an issue for all involved. No one wants to see a HS athlete fail, but in a sport like baseball, failure is a given at some point. When those fine-tuned points need to be reinforced who does the athlete turn to? Just a thought. I have read much about the kids and their private instructors, heck now it is even going on in the 10-12 year old ages. Especially with hitting there are many different philosophies out there that are good for different types of players.
If a kid misses 7 of 10 practice sessions I would suggest he has no interest in playing. JMO! Not my problem, obviously.
GCPRO: You make valid and good points. It is not perfect an I was extremely lucky to have become friends with Bull 9 years ago and know everyone does not have a hitting instructor with his knowledge and ability to teach it to others. That being said Bull is adament that he when he works with playes that he has adequate time to correct their swing and reinforce the things that help a player become a Smarter hitter. I and a few of my coaches have been able to watch and learn from Bull for 9 seasons and yes a little has rubbed off. I can help with the hitters and often work with the younger players to prepare them for Bull, at NO COST. Bull also has his hitters video taped and our players are encouraged to speak with Bull during the HS and Summer season. I have taped my players who utilize Bull and he will tweak them in April when Spring break ends for a couple hours prior to going north to Toledo... and Toledo is not far so we can go up there for help. That being said I would love to have Bull full time, but as he has told me when players are hitting it is not a good time adjust and change things. A player obviously needs to be confident at the plate, trust his hands, and be capable of picking the right pitch to hit. This being said, if there is a glaring problem I will let them know and we will work on that during practice and if that does not fix it we will call the Hit Doctor "Bull". I am forunate to have Darrel Grissom and Adam Grissom as coaches and Adam is excellent with the hitters. He is mainly our hitting coach but also works with the catchers and defensive alignments. Nothing is perfect but we try to make sure the players are given the opportunity to work with a very good instructor, good coaches and a staff that cares.

[GCPRO]

A1-I understand the people that are in your Heat program all get the benefit of having Leon Durham around. Yet I am pretty confident that what I see as a swing flaw and what you see as a swing flaw can be very different. Hence although your Heat staff has been around his tutelage, it is not HIS tutelage. Second, hitting in a cage and hitting live pitching in a competitive environment are as different as black/white. Where does that support come from? I am not trying to single out the Heat organization because this has now become quite the thing to do, all academies with respect to all HS in the area. Yet in using your program as the issue, my question would be more to the point of kids learning from the Heat instructors and then playing for FHS that may have differing philosophies. I don't know that they do, just asking how that can be dealt with. Can that become a problem? There are plenty of ideas on hitting out there, while I can understand that your program believes in and has had success with Leon Durham, there are more ways "to skin a cat".

[IMHO]

A1-I understand the people that are in your Heat program all get the benefit of having Leon Durham around. Yet I am pretty confident that what I see as a swing flaw and what you see as a swing flaw can be very different. Hence although your Heat staff has been around his tutelage, it is not HIS tutelage. Second, hitting in a cage and hitting live pitching in a competitive environment are as different as black/white. Where does that support come from? I am not trying to single out the Heat organization because this has now become quite the thing to do, all academies with respect to all HS in the area. Yet in using your program as the issue, my question would be more to the point of kids learning from the Heat instructors and then playing for FHS that may have differing philosophies. I don't know that they do, just asking how that can be dealt with. Can that become a problem? There are plenty of ideas on hitting out there, while I can understand that your program believes in and has had success with Leon Durham, there are more ways "to skin a cat".

GCPro/A-!: I think it depends on what is being "taught" to the hitter by the various coaches. Anyone who tries to adjust swings constantly is probably hurting the hitter more than helping. I would think what is being "taught" to hitters more than anything by professional instructors is the fundamentals of hitting (i.e. proper hand position as the pitch is being delivered, loading before swinging, driving the bat down thru the hitting zone, allowint the outside pitch to get deeper int he hitting zone, driving the front elbow thru in order to allow the hands to fly to the ball on an inside pitch, etc.) so as long as other coaches are not teaching against the fundamentals of hitting it could be OK having multiple voices instructing.

As I posted above I believe the key is whether the player has the ability to listen and incorporate those fundamentals into his daily routine and develop those fundamental principals. If not professional instrucction will not help over the long term.

[eye]

I pay for my son to have lessons and I also pay close attention to what is being taught so I may be able to help him out when the instructor is not around. As IMHO stated that he would have to laugh if a person payed money and gets all screwed up. You can bash me on here if you want but that is a jack___ comment. I pay money to give my son every chance in the world to succeed at a game he loves by paying for good instruction. You want to laugh because a person who works hard for their money wants to spend it on his son instead of himself. I know a comment like this puts you in the minority, glad there are more people like myself who offer his son the shirt off his back to help him succeed.

[AmericaOne]

A1-I understand the people that are in your Heat program all get the benefit of having Leon Durham around. Yet I am pretty confident that what I see as a swing flaw and what you see as a swing flaw can be very different. Hence although your Heat staff has been around his tutelage, it is not HIS tutelage. Second, hitting in a cage and hitting live pitching in a competitive environment are as different as black/white. Where does that support come from? I am not trying to single out the Heat organization because this has now become quite the thing to do, all academies with respect to all HS in the area. Yet in using your program as the issue, my question would be more to the point of kids learning from the Heat instructors and then playing for FHS that may have differing philosophies. I don't know that they do, just asking how that can be dealt with. Can that become a problem? There are plenty of ideas on hitting out there, while I can understand that your program believes in and has had success with Leon Durham, there are more ways "to skin a cat".

GCPRO: I certainly know that there is more than one way to teach hitting. I also know the flaws as I do not think I am qualified or an expert on hitting. I try to help as much as I can and there are guys who are much better than I who work with the hitters.. As for FF High School. It was important to me to make sure I had the blessing of the HS coaches prior to having Bull work with them so I talked with Coach Price and let him know that our players were going to Bull and he was fine with that. I would not want to have the HS coaches teach one way and Bull teaching another since it may confuse the situation even more. My players including my son will always listen to the coaches and do what they ask. Just as in hitting there are diferent philosophies on pitching. Some time a player must listen and do what the HS coaches ask but I would encourage the player to ask for clarification if it is radically different. Most good coaches can see when a player has been well taught mechanics of hitting and or pitching. I think coaches respect when a player spends a lot of time working on his craft. Hitting is very hard and failure is obvious what happens most of the time. Dealing with failure is sometimes hard to teach..

[IMHO]

I pay for my son to have lessons and I also pay close attention to what is being taught so I may be able to help him out when the instructor is not around. As IMHO stated that he would have to laugh if a person payed money and gets all screwed up. You can bash me on here if you want but that is a jack___ comment. I pay money to give my son every chance in the world to succeed at a game he loves by paying for good instruction. You want to laugh because a person who works hard for their money wants to spend it on his son instead of himself. I know a comment like this puts you in the minority, glad there are more people like myself who offer his son the shirt off his back to help him succeed.

You took my comment incorrectly. I said a player must have the ability to listen to and incooperate what is being taught by the instructor into his every day routine and develop the fundamentals that are being taught or it is a waste of money. My comment about laughing is that seeing a hitter by the end of summer who is so messed up that is is hard to understand how he was tauth to hit and got so messed up during he season. It has nothing to do with spending money on your son or yourself. I also agree it is a good idea to get instruction form someone who knows however it is just as important to retain that instruction and develop it into what a player does on the diamond away from a contolled lesson setting.

By the way - you are not the only one who has paid money for lessons for their kids. I have done that also.

[AmericaOne]

I pay for my son to have lessons and I also pay close attention to what is being taught so I may be able to help him out when the instructor is not around. As IMHO stated that he would have to laugh if a person payed money and gets all screwed up. You can bash me on here if you want but that is a jack___ comment. I pay money to give my son every chance in the world to succeed at a game he loves by paying for good instruction. You want to laugh because a person who works hard for their money wants to spend it on his son instead of himself. I know a comment like this puts you in the minority, glad there are more people like myself who offer his son the shirt off his back to help him succeed.


eye: Good post. Exactly.. After a while of watching the intsructor teach you can pick up things to help your son.. That was why I took my son to a pitching and hitting instructor as soon as he showed the interest. I also tried to learn as much as I could so I could possibly help and give him the chance to succeed on a competitive playing field. I commend fathers like you.. Nothing wrong with spending money to help your son. :thumb:

[GCPRO]

I have been out of the loop coaching wise for a while now, it is amazing how the educating of fundamentals change so rapidly. I played HS and college basketball yet took my first "true" coaching job less than 7 years after leaving college. I remember thinking after the first couple of practices and being around the varsity staff was like I had never played the game or something. A very humbling experience.
It was nice to see that we can have a gentle and thought provoking discourse, now let's get back to bashing that coaching staff.

[luvdagame]

Has Fairfield had any cuts yet? If so who made it, and any surprises?

[ffind18]

If what I've heard is all correct, I was really only surprised by the amount of seniors they kept.

[Between the lines]

17 on the squad. 15 Seniors. Johnson is a Jr. Who is the remaining underclassman?

[JUST THE TRUTH]

Well I had hoped we were dealing with better people. How can you let one young person DISRESPECT the coaching staff, the players, the school,and the community like that? By the way, I'm talking about Alex Jonhson. Please note I did not say young man. What do you think Coach Yates would have done? He was a winner, did he take that kind of crap from his players?

[Between the lines]

Make it 16 players plus one mgr. 14 Sr's and 2 Jr's.

Constable is the other Jr. I do believe.

[yappi19981]

All you yappers are missing one of the biggest factors for any team,which is chemistry.That brings up the big question;will the coaching staff do what's right where Alex Johnson is concerned? Will they cut him and give him what he asked for or will they keep him and send the message to the taem that if we think you're good enough you can do what ever you want and we'll take you. Please note I said,The RIGHT THING to do is cut him! Any thoughts?

You need to take a chemistry class. Don't blast a 17 year old kid. A1 usually takes care of this.

[Informed]

Well I had hoped we were dealing with better people. How can you let one young person DISRESPECT the coaching staff, the players, the school,and the community like that? By the way, I'm talking about Alex Jonhson. Please note I did not say young man. What do you think Coach Yates would have done? He was a winner, did he take that kind of crap from his players?

Truth: If it is true about this person then shame on the coaches. Some kids respect their coaches and team too much to put up with one player who does not. I heard that this kid also cursed the coaches and showed up only when it was his turn to throw. Congrats to all the players who came every day and worked their butts off and respect the coaches. It is disappointing that the coaches allowed this type of thing to happen.

[JUST THE TRUTH]

Yappi1998whatever, speaking the truth is not blasting someone, that's just stating facts.Then voicing an opion. Unlike the the way you BLASTED the Burden kid last year with your unwarranted and totally unsubstantiated opion.

[yappi19981]

Truth: If it is true about this person then shame on the coaches. Some kids respect their coaches and team too much to put up with one player who does not. I heard that this kid also cursed the coaches and showed up only when it was his turn to throw. Congrats to all the players who came every day and worked their butts off and respect the coaches. It is disappointing that the coaches allowed this type of thing to happen.

You both have 4 posts = jealous kids or internet trolls.

[111411]

Enough, gentlemen.

[brad01]

Has Fairfield had any cuts yet? If so who made it, and any surprises?

Let's stay on track. Let's see a list of who made the Jv and Varsity and postions.

[AmericaOne]

Let's stay on track. Let's see a list of who made the Jv and Varsity and postions.

Varsity: The ones I know.

SENIORS
Michael Haney - RHP, Infielder
David Prichard- LHP, 1st. Base ?
Giovanni Silvani- LHP
Cody Riggs- LHP, OF
Zak Shiffman- RHP
Justin Burden- RHP
Wade Stacey- RHP
Austin Ventling- 2nd, SS
Bennen Croy- 2nd, CF
Cody Hinson- Infield
Jordan Gabbard- Outfield
Kris Kigar- Catcher
Ryan Groene- Catcher
Evan Schweinfest- OF

Not sure which juniors are on Varsity. Hope I did not miss a senior.
Seems like a nice group and congratulations to Wade Stacey. Perserverance and hard work paid off...

[yappi19981]

Dan Constable, Alex Johnson, and maybe Todd Gotschall?

[ilovebeingunknown]

it will be interesting to see how the indians do this season they are under the radar and have a lot of hype to live up to with so many seniors this is their season

look for the following players to have breakout seasons
schweinfest-look for this kid to absolutely mash the ball all year for the tribe
ventling-smoothest fielder in the city
haney-top gun righty pitcher
prichard-top gun lefty pitcher
riggs-very athletic and knows how to pitch
croy-fast and good good hitter
silvani-lefty with a lotta body but knows how to change speeds and is very good

silvani riggs and prichard are already being the trio of lefties to look out for in the GMC all of their games are different and effective

[zeak2012]

not to mention Pauley & Croy

ya also not to mention stacy at pitcher

[yappi19981]

A1,I personally think that players when given the opportunity to go hit with their buddies really never put forth much effort versus something organized with a/the coach watching.A lot of kids are not driven today with goals. Iwas over at Diamond Stars watching my nephew hit and there was a kid from FF in there hitting with the owner. I didn't catch his name but everybody stopped to watch him hit. He was a tall strong kid. At first I thought he was a college player. I asked him the same question and he said by working out and by hitting on his own he gets much more done.

I'll be damned if that's Alex Johnson. Who would've thought? Diamond Stars...

[JUST THE TRUTH]

Enough, gentlemen.
Warning! Let it go!

[JUST THE TRUTH]

I don't want to start a war,I just want to get some info. Speaking of Diamond Stars,what are the credentials of Doug Smith, who is he? All I know is that he was a scout with the Atlanta Braves for 2 years then let go, and then worked in a nonpaid position for the Angels for a time. Is there anything else?

[coach1]

I don't want to start a war,I just want to get some info. Speaking of Diamond Stars,what are the credentials of Doug Smith, who is he? All I know is that he was a scout with the Atlanta Braves for 2 years then let go, and then worked in a nonpaid position for the Angels for a time. Is there anything else?

I don't think you are starting a war,it is a fair question. Doug is a very knowledgeable baseball guy. He has coached all levels of players in the last 20 years.What I am most impressed with is his fundamental breakdown of teaching the game of baseball. He is very patient and always is praising versus critcizing.His Diamond Stars teams have been succesful because he doesn't over schedule his talent on his team versus his opponents.He plays the best competion where his players can be succesful.

[GCPRO]

Did the young man that missed all the practice time make the team? If so, how does the remainder of the squad view that?

Not sure that scouting, in which you are evaluating talent, is a precursor to teaching the game. J. Burden seems to be a pretty good teacher of the pitching fundamentals, I believe he was scouting for a time. DStars in 2003 won the NABF Championship in Michigan. I think if you wear a Heat hat with those credentials that qualifies as "professional" status.

[JUST THE TRUTH]

Yes,and not sure yet.I know they were taking bets if he would make it,some of which are on his summer team.They were saying he shouldn't.The team you guys had with Doug was a good team that year,But why did you breakup when you got back? J B was a pitching for Seattle before becoming a scout.Doug won't play A1 anymore since they beat him, oh just wondering why the shot at A1?

[GCPRO]

Just a poke, having some fun. What else is there to do. Why the poke at the coach? Having seen much of him in a while but he helped some kids get to where they are today. Not sure about coach1's thought about everything being positive, but to each his own. The breakup-just time to move on, keep it on the high road.

[AmericaOne]

Did the young man that missed all the practice time make the team? If so, how does the remainder of the squad view that?

Not sure that scouting, in which you are evaluating talent, is a precursor to teaching the game. J. Burden seems to be a pretty good teacher of the pitching fundamentals, I believe he was scouting for a time. DStars in 2003 won the NABF Championship in Michigan. I think if you wear a Heat hat with those credentials that qualifies as "professional" status.

GCPRO: John Burden is a good man and a truly "Professional Scout". He is very knowledgeable about pitching and teaches just pitching. I heard he was not paid for lessons but someone at DStars was. Well anyway he saw what was going on there and left, as did many other professional types including you, if I am not mistaken. Scouts who do not get paid are just "Bird Dogs". John Burden is a paid scout and former Minor league Pitching coach. When I worked with the Bengals from 1986 to 1989 I got paid, and I trained professional football players. This made me a professional. Even though I never played football professionally... Again to clarify if you are paid to train, or teach someone a skill then you are a "professional". I am not a professional coach of baseball, I am a volunteer manager. I do have paid coaches who have credentials and some who gained their "professional" status by years of experience. And yes Coach you were a professional because you were paid, and by the way nice job in 2003...

[IMHO]

GCPRO: John Burden is a good man and a truly "Professional Scout". He is very knowledgeable about pitching and teaches just pitching. I heard he was not paid for lessons but someone at DStars was. Well anyway he saw what was going on there and left, as did many other professional types including you, if I am not mistaken. Scouts who do not get paid are just "Bird Dogs". John Burden is a paid scout and former Minor league Pitching coach. When I worked with the Bengals from 1986 to 1989 I got paid, and I trained professional football players. This made me a professional. Even though I never played football professionally... Again to clarify if you are paid to train, or teach someone a skill then you are a "professional". I am not a professional coach of baseball, I am a volunteer manager. I do have paid coaches who have credentials and some who gained their "professional" status by years of experience. And yes Coach you were a professional because you were paid, and by the way nice job in 2003...

A-1 - What did you do for the Bengals? Were you the strength and conditioning coach? Or did you coach on the field?

[GCPRO]

I had nothing to do with that team, nor any successful team, once again you have me mistaken, good players win, plain and simple. I am far from professional in anything other than yappi posts and I must admit I am a good one.

[IMHO]

I had nothing to do with that team, nor any successful team, once again you have me mistaken, good players win, plain and simple. I am far from professional in anything other than yappi posts and I must admit I am a good one.

Man this is as good as the old show What's my line? Can you give us some clues? A-1 is trying real hard but seems to be misleading us.

[JUST THE TRUTH]

Coach 1 ,when you say all levels are you speaking of his own taems?

[AmericaOne]

Man this is as good as the old show What's my line? Can you give us some clues? A-1 is trying real hard but seems to be misleading us.

IMHO: I taught Martial Arts for years and knew enough to transfer body mechanics to football. Bill Urbanik liked what I did with Leo Barker in the off season of 1986 so they hired me to work with the D-line and then McNally asked me to help with the O-line and it went from there. My 15 minutes of fame (lol). The team was good in 1988. I was not on the field, did my work at practices and training camp, Spinny Field back in the day, and Wilmington... but I think it helped enough for Anthony to hire me privately.... Was fun. GCPRO knows I know who he is and I am not trying to out him anymore. He was a good coach in the GCL and had some parental problems, that is the only clue....just poking fun now>>

[coach1]

Coach 1 ,when you say all levels are you speaking of his own taems?

Yes

[altiora1]

No mention of Micah Parker. Whatever happened to him?

[yappi19981]

Yes,and not sure yet.I know they were taking bets if he would make it,some of which are on his summer team.They were saying he shouldn't.The team you guys had with Doug was a good team that year,But why did you breakup when you got back? J B was a pitching for Seattle before becoming a scout.Doug won't play A1 anymore since they beat him, oh just wondering why the shot at A1?

The only sophomore on varsity last year should have been cut this year? That's just subtracting talent.

[JUST THE TRUTH]

Just a poke, having some fun. What else is there to do. Why the poke at the coach? Having seen much of him in a while but he helped some kids get to where they are today. Not sure about coach1's thought about everything being positive, but to each his own. The breakup-just time to move on, keep it on the high road.

I really wasn't taking a shot at the coach. Sorry if I came off that way. I'll have to agree with you about everything being positive.

[ffind18]

A little more on topic.. Any guesses as to the starting 8 this year? Also, Parker and Hardin both decided to not try out this year

[brad01]

A little more on topic.. Any guesses as to the starting 8 this year? Also, Parker and Hardin both decided to not try out this year

Also, a little info on the JV team. Who will be the starters there?

[GCPRO]

yes, please keep to ff baseball and only ff baseball-good luck. out!

[luvdagame]

A little more on topic.. Any guesses as to the starting 8 this year? Also, Parker and Hardin both decided to not try out this year

If I were a betting man, I'd say the opening day lineup will be...

P-Haney
C-Kigar
3b-Constable
2b-Hinson
SS-Ventling
1b-Shiffman or Pritchard
RF-Schweinfest
CF-Croy
LF-Gabbard

[ffind18]

Pretty much what I was thinking, with the exception of first base.. I think if Durbin does well in scrimmages he'll have a chance to start.

[luvdagame]

Pretty much what I was thinking, with the exception of first base.. I think if Durbin does well in scrimmages he'll have a chance to start.

Durbin is on the JV. I doubt he'll get moved up after jv scrimmages.

[yappi19981]

If I were a betting man, I'd say the opening day lineup will be...

P-Haney
C-Kigar
3b-Constable
2b-Hinson
SS-Ventling
1b-Shiffman or Pritchard
RF-Schweinfest
CF-Croy
LF-Gabbard

I think the opening day lineup will be completely different.