Lincoln College baseball preview

[MARCH 8, 2005]  Lincoln College baseball coach Tony Thomas thinks this year's squad has an opportunity to surprise some people, as it is probably the best talent he has had since becoming the Lynx mentor in 1994. Last year the Lynx struggled to a 14-35 record, and the coach is hoping for a plus-.500 season this year.

"We have the best pitching staff since I have been here," Thomas said. "We have some talent coming back from last season and some freshmen who should be able to step in and give us some innings. Leading the staff will be Matt Miller and Scott Aeschelman. Both saw a lot of action last season and should be our leaders this year. Colton McClellan and Kyle Bruce are two other sophomores being counted on to give us some innings. Nick Kidwell is another sophomore who should be a starter on our staff.

"Freshmen who have a chance to help include Ryan Driskill and Max McCorvie as starters and Blaen Fletcher and Rich Ennis out of the bullpen. We have enough depth in our pitching staff that we should be able to use them in various situations for one or two innings each."

Alex Brown is likely to be the catcher, with backup help from Bryant Wright. Jake Jones returns at first base, although he is returning from a broken wrist and has not seen much action. Brad Hall will likely be the second baseman, with Andy Bakhaus at third and Adam York at short. "This is an all-sophomore infield and it looks to be sound," said Thomas.

Bakhaus is the leading hitter returning, hitting at a .301 clip last season. Brown had a .256 average last season, and Jones hit at a .248 clip. In the outfield, Brian Rynearson and Tyler Casson have two spots secured, while the third spot is between Nick Meredeth and Kyle Killenger.

"We had a great fall season and the guys have been putting forth a good effort this spring," said Thomas. "The coaching staff is excited about the season, as we have good depth and some kids that can come off the bench and help either in a special situation or to fill in at a position. We also play a JV schedule, so some of these kids will get an opportunity in those games.

"Parkland once again will be the favorite in our conference, but Danville is also ranked in the preseason polls. Lincoln Land drew honorable mention, while I expect Springfield College and Illinois Central to also be strong. I feel we can compete with these teams and, with our pitching and depth, provide a few surprises during the season.

"We have four local players, all who should see playing time. Tyler Casson (Williamsville) has been an asset in our fall games and will be starting in the outfield. Blaen Fletcher (Hartem) will be used out of the bullpen and is learning to accept his role. Jason Williams (Lincoln) has looked good and is adjusting to the speed of the game at this level and will play some infield, while Colton McClellan (Mount Pulaski), is a kid you would like to have 29 like on your squad. He is easy to coach and one of those players some others overlook, but we expect him to be a big factor in our success this season."

Lincoln College will be leaving for Alabama on Saturday to play nine games in one week. The Lynx opened the season with a pair of close losses at St. Charles last week and are scheduled to play at Lindenwood in St. Charles prior to heading south.

[Bill Martinie, Lincoln College]

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