Cardinals can utilize seniors’ experience

BASEBALL

By: Tim Falls
   Experience and time together as a team should give the Lawrence High School varsity baseball team an advantage this season.
   The Cardinals boast a squad with 11 seniors, seniors who have a history together.
   "We have a lot of experience," said Lawrence coach Chris Gresko. "That’s going to be our strength this year. These guys have been playing together for many years, since they were little. They know each other. They know where each other should be. There’s really good team chemistry."
   With seniors Christian Cox, Geoff Kimmel, Matt Russo, Jason Zegarski, Kevin Raymond, Sean Gafgen, J.J. Vogel, Bob Hallowell, Noe Nuccio, Jeff Adams and Taylor Smith, Gresko said he’s anticipating a strong season.
   The Cardinals will also utilize juniors Brian Pillsbury, Brian Mills, Dan Ciccone, Mike Irene and Chris Maple and sophomores Eric Waseleski, Anthony Russ and Ryan Kmiec.
   Gresko cited senior statistician Justin Freedman for his efforts to the team.
   Gresko is assisted by C.J. Hendricks, volunteer assistant Ryan Casey, junior varsity coach Mick Cimorelli and freshman coach Matt Vivian.
   With experience on its side, Gresko said he felt the Cardinals could contend this season.
   "I think we’ll surprise a lot of people," said Gresko. "We’ve been flying under the radar."
   The Colonial Valley Conference may also be bit more equal, which could help the Cardinals’ record.
   "I think this year there’ll be a little more parity in the league," said Gresko. "It’ll be a good year for the rest of Mercer County to see what Lawrence has to offer."
   Lawrence hosts Ewing at 4 p.m. on April 9 in its CVC opener.
   Prior to that, the Cardinals will be competing down in Orlando, Florida at the Disney 2007 Spring Training.
   The Cardinals leave Saturday and during their trip will face the Ohio and Georgia state runners-up from last season among their other competition.
   Lawrence is looking to show just how good baseball in Mercer County actually is.
   "We’re gong to have some good competition," said Gresko. "Mercer County baseball is great baseball. We’d like to showcase some of our talent."
   Along with the games in Florida, Lawrence’s season should be highlighted by a night game against cross-town rival Notre Dame on April 20.
   With its experience, Lawrence could have plenty of games this season to get excited for.
   "It’s only a matter of time until they come together as a team," said Gresko, "and set up what they want to do. I’m really looking forward to the season."