It was a bright, hot, 96-degree afternoon on Wednesday when the Illini baseball team when out to Illinois Field to practice. It was my first chance to see the new 2013-14 squad in action. There were some changes, of course. New haircuts, new signage at the park, and yes, some new faces.
Pitchers (like Ronnie Muck, left) and fielders got a workout before a simulated game took place. Everybody looks in good form as far I can tell.
Coach Hartleb and the rest of the coaching staff is getting them in shape.
A new face I was looking forward to seeing was incoming transfer, Casey Fletcher. A 
lot has been made of Fletcher’s familial ties. His dad is former Illini legend and MLB catcher Darrin Fletcher but Casey (right) has a lot to offer and his talent seems to stand on its own merit. Besides having a good arm from the mound, he also was second in the nation in rbis among players at his JUCO level.
Time will tell what role Coach Hartleb will have for Fletcher come spring. He can certainly fill some key spots.
On a different note, I noticed some new signage along the fence at Illinois Field. Politely worded, it said “Please do not Spit sunflower Seeds, Tobacco, or Gum on Turf. Thank You”. I noted that the same sign was also posted on the dugout fencing too so heed those words, players! :)
You can find the full gallery here at the Illinois Baseball Report photo gallery. Click here for a slideshow.