our hardest workers,” the coach noted. At first base

our hardest workers,” the coach noted.

At first base Rappahannock has the team’s top hitter, Daczewitz, who posted a .385 average last year. Philip recently purchased a new bat and liked it so much he almost took it to class with him; with his new 34inch slugger, he should be Rappahannock’s cleanup hitter.

There is a battle at second base with senior Anthony Porter now claiming the inside track. ‘This is Anthony’s first year of varsity baseball, but he has been active in the summer leagues. He’s also become our most consistent hitter,” Leake said. In Porter’s six-foot-four shadow is junior Scott Turnmeyer, who is coming off knee surgery and looks to be a major contributor late in the season.

Rappahannock’s quick-handed shortstop will be junior Julian “Ju” Groves, who played third last season. “Ju’s a good contact hitter and with his speed will bat near the top of the order,” Leake said. Groves will also see time as a relief pitcher.

In the “hot box” will be senior Danny Ellis, who moves to third from second base. Ellis and Smith will rotate between third and the mound for RCHS.

Coach Leake has a group of role players in the outfield and, depending on the opposition’s strengths, will alternate between seniors John Brown, Mike Payne, Mark Butler, Dwight Parker and junior Bill Atkins. “I feel comfortable starting any three,” he said.

Rappahannock also has a stellar second unit willing and able to step in for the starters if they are needed. Leading the group is sophomore catcher Darrell Norwood, who probably has the best bat in the second unit, according to the coach. Junior Tremaine Allsberry could see time at first and as a designated hitter. Sophomores Tom Brown, Jay Butler and Paul Hitt are also working hard for Coach Leake and could see some playing time. Sophomore Mitch Terry has good size and could be the

See BASEBALL, p. 18