CLINTON TWP. — The return of experienced players at key positions could lead to a more successful season for the Lackawanna Trail baseball team this year.
Junior Nate Rolka, a University of Delaware commit, returns to lead the Lions’ pitching staff.
“I’m looking for him to really step up and do a great job,” said Lackawanna Trail head coach Todd Peters.
Senior Thomas Kohinsky returns as a starting outfielder and is expected to play primarily in center.
Senior D.J. Klinges also returns with experience on the mound and can play many different positions for Trail.
“We expect him to solidify our rotation and be one of our better bats,” Peters said.
Junior Noah Coleman is expected to contribute as a shortstop and pitcher.
Junior Jordan Edwards returns as the starting catcher and may also see some time on the mound,
Freshmen Kyle Petrilak, Ethan Ritter, Andrew Kazmierczak, Jacob Whiteduck, Kyle Austin and Ray Melnikoff, along with sophomore Josh Brown, are also competing for playing time.
The Lions hope to be more competitive in Lackawanna League Division 5 play after going 4-8 last season.
“I think our pitching will be solid and I think our hitting will be much better,” Peters said. “A lot will depend on our defense and how the young guys filling in at the new positions step up.”
While Peters believes every game will be a tough battle, he pegged Elk Lake, Forest City and Montrose as the top contenders.