Tigers benefiting from contributions by many
FORT FAIRFIELD — The Tiger baseball team entered the 2011 season with high hopes. With a strong core of returning players and the addition of some talented newcomers, this year’s squad has set their sights on making a post-season appearance.
“Last season we were not able to make the playoffs, and our guys have remembered that feeling,” stated Coach John Ala. “They have come into this season focused and ready to work.”
Ala noted several aspects which point to the team’s strengths.
“We return the majority of our batting lineup,” he said, “and we are pretty solid from top to bottom.”
With the return of five of last year’s pitchers and the combination of the Maine Principals’ Association pitching rule and Aroostook County’s inclement spring weather, depth on the mound is critical.
“With rainouts and the pitching rule, you need to have a lot of good arms to be successful,” he added.
Leading the way for the Tigers will be senior Austin Bixler. Bixler will see action both on the mound and behind the plate. As the leadoff batter, Bixler’s speed and aggressive nature on the base paths will serve the squad well. His leadership will also be a key to the Tiger’s success. Seniors Travis Noyes and Drake Leighton are first-year players, but both may play key roles as well. Noyes brings a lot of athleticism and will see action at short, on the mound and in centerfield as well. Leighton will add depth to the outfield and has shown power at the plate in the early going.
Dave Allen Graphics photo
HURLER — Landon Towle is one of the Tigers’ top pitchers.
A strong junior class will have to perform well for the Tigers to be successful. Landon Towle is versatile and will pitch and start in the outfield. His leadership will be an important ingredient. Zach Argraves, a hard-working second baseman will also see mound time. Billy Weissman is the primary backup catcher, and his plate discipline will give him an opportunity to earn time in the infield as well. Carl Smith has shown some pop at the plate, and will see action primarily in right field thanks to his improved defense. After taking a year off, Derek Dufour is back and will start in left field. He has a knack for getting on base.
The sophomore class is anchored by Austin Bernier. He will start at shortstop and will also be a mainstay on the mound with a crafty variety of pitches. Bernier batted .380 last season and will be counted on to anchor the offense again this season. Tyler Churchill will be the starting third baseman and will provide power in the middle of the lineup. Nate Guimond will compete for time at first and has shown some power at the plate. Andrew Tuck will start often in the outfield and has a solid swing from the left side. Brandon Clark, River Burgoine and Shane Leighton have worked hard and will see innings in many spots.
Freshmen Ryan Pelkey and Logan Craig round out the squad. Pelkey is working to earn time at first, while Craig will see time in a utility role. He will also eat up some innings on the mound.
“We have worked hard and have a good attitude,” Ala said. “They are hungry to get to the playoffs, and I believe they have the talent to do it.”
