Feb 03, 2011
A new season is upon the University of La Verne baseball season. With it come high expectations for a tradition-rich program that looks to return to excellence in 2011. La Verne earned a 22-18 overall record a year ago and finished fourth in the SCIAC standings last season with a 16-12 mark in league play.
Under 11-year head coach Scott Winterburn, the Leopards have the components for a successful 2011 campaign.
Following the graduation of nine players, La Verne will look to the leadership of a talented senior class as well as many of the juniors and sophomores who are poised to make a significant impact this season.
Despite losing the three All-SCIAC performers on offense in third baseman Jon-Michael Hattabaugh, catcher Mike Surina and designated hitter Victor Peinado, the Leos return four players who hit over .300 last season. That senior quartet includes second baseman Sergio Munoz (.355), senior utility Mark Larini (.354), catcher/outfielder Joe Buckley (.347) and first baseman Aaron Coopman (.309).
The Leos also welcome back senior outfielder Donovan Petta, who missed nearly the entire 2010 campaign to injury. Petta hit .333 with four homers and 35 runs batted in during the 2009 season.
Munoz along with junior shortstop Zach Canfield provide the Leopards with a veteran middle infield tandem. Junior transfer Ross Hebert is expected to see action at third base.
Sophomore catcher Jason Moralez has made steady improvements behind the plate and will be aided by Buckley.
The Leopards also return senior Jason Munoz, who can play multiple positions and can also be used as a designated hitter. Sophomore Albert Ramos will see time at first base.
In the outfield, junior Jacob Ludvik could make an immediate impact at the centerfield spot and will likely serve as the Leopard leadoff hitter. Petta will be the rightfielder while sophomore Cody Hazel, who enjoyed a solid freshman campaign a year ago, should be playing time at the leftfield position.
On the mound, the Leopards return All-SCIAC pitcher Matt Baudino, who went 7-5 with a 3.71 earned run average last season. Baudino will help anchor a starting rotation which includes junior Anthony Cerafice, Larini and newcomer Nathan Rollon. Other pitchers that are expected to make strong contributions include transfer Sean Faisig along with freshmen Brian Tuttle and Phil Schick.
The Leopards open the season on February 4 against NAIA member Biola University. From there, the Leos will play five games against Northwest Conference schools in Arizona February 10-13. La Verne begins SCIAC action at home against Redlands on February 18.
