Hit and Run Online

Coach Billy Powell returns to the helm of the Jacket baseball team in 2009.  Here is his 2009 season outlook:

  With starters returning at every position and the addition of a couple of newcomers who should make an impact, the yellow jackets are hoping to improve on their 12-17 mark of last year.  Josh Branham, a 3 year starter, returns at catcher.  With good throwing skills he will anchor the defense.  First Base duties will be shared by senior Scott Mason and junior Alex Pratt.  Mason, 6′2″ and a former shortstop, should provide a large target and a good glove for the Jackets.  Pratt will provide some pop in the lineup when at first base. Second Base will be manned by senior Holden Moyers.  The speedy 2nd baseman is solid defensively and a constant threat when on base.  He will be pushed by Evan Womack.  A transfer, returning home to Middlesboro after 2 years in South Carolina,  Evan brings a potent stick and if he improves defensively, could really push Moyers for the  job. 

     Shortstop will probably be manned by freshman Thomas Epperson.  A solid glove and arm, Thomas has a great deal of “moxie” for a freshman.  He will get better as the season progresses.  Third Base will be handled by senior and 3 year starter Brett Pittman.  His strong arm makes him ideal for 3B and he is definitely one of the top players in the 13th region.  He will be capably supported by Matt Cox, a sophmore who played outfield for the Jackets last year. Both Matt and Brett will be in the pitching rotation and play third.

     The outfield will be anchored by Jake Partin.  A 2yr starter, Jake is also one of the top players in the 13th region as well as this part of the state.  A 5 tool player, Jake has power, speed, and a great arm.  He will be helped by 2yr starter Eddie Gilbert and Kendall Ferguson in Left, and Hunter Adams in right.  Hunter, a football standout has an incredible upside.  He possesses great power and speed.  Eddie is solid defensively and is a leader for the jackets on and off the field.  Kendall has a strong arm and will spend time on the mound this season. 

     Pitching for the Jackets should be one of their strong suits.  They will be led by Brett Pittman.  Possessing a mid to upper 80’s fastball, an excellent change, and a sharp curveball.  The senior righty may very well be the top pitcher in the region.  He will be aided by lefty Alex Pratt.  Alex has picked up a couple of mph on his curveball and should also be one of the top pitchers in the region.  The other  spots in the rotation will be filled by Ferguson, Cox, and Mason.  Each one throws in the low 80’s and has an excellent change.  Ferguson and Mason both have good  movement and Cox throws a sharper curve. 

Good luck to the Jackets this baseball season!!