Coach Hartleb watching from the sidelines
I got a chance to watch full team practice today at Illinois Field. It was nice hot day evidenced by the sweat pouring down the guys by the end of practice.
Coach Snider gets as much a workout as the players
Watching practice is a different beast than in a game atmosphere. I’m glad I know the players by face as well as I do. No announcers, no uni numbers and let’s face it players are playing different position, especially this year.
Pete Cappetta was practicing at short (his old position) and Casey McMurray at second (yes, I believe his old position, too). With the departure of a thirdbaseman and a shortstop, that might leave a team in dire straits. Fortunately, we have good players who quite capable of filling those holes.
John Anderson tosses one during a split squad practice game
It seemed strange not to see last year’s seniors out there. Dominic Altobelli, Brandon Wikoff, Joe Bonadonna have gone on to the greener pastures of minor leagues. Other players such as McMurray, Cappetta and Mike Giller will take their place and assume leadership positions.
Pete Cappetta taking bunting practice
Those freshman of last year such as Willie Argo and Josh Parr who have already learned the ropes, will continue their development not only from a talent perspective but on a team leadership level.
As for the incoming freshman and transfers, well, good luck. Don’t let the upperclassmen give you too much guff.
Lee Zerrusen on the mound
Taking grounders
Many more photos in the photo gallery. The team will be taking practice the rest of the week. I’ll see if I can stop by sometime later this week.