Pre-Fall Analysis Infield

Catcher

Defense and pitching start here, the catcher. We have no one returning that has experience in the SEC. The candidates are: Zach Randolph, Junior-RS: redshirted bc we had two seniors in 2013. This is his make or break fall. Cody Walker, Junior: a JC transfer who hit very well in Hunter Renfroe's old stomping ground, the Cal Ripken league. Daniel Garner, Freshman-RS: John Cohen raved about his hitting ability last year. His defensive skills needed some work. He got some work in during the summer in California and made his league's all star team. Gavin Collins, Freshman: highly touted freshman from California. Started catching again this summer after injuring his foot earlier. Has all the tools.

I expect Walker to pull away with the job in the fall. He is a great defender and a good hitter plus he is experienced in the college game. Garner and Collins will fight it out for 2nd. This position needs 2 players. Garner and Collins could also see extensive duty at DH.

First Base

Wes Rea, Junior-RS: is a three year starter at 1B. A leader and captian. Really started to hit the ball in April and got huge hits down the stretch. We need double digit HR's this year from him.

Two true freshmen are behind him, Brent Rooker and Dylan Ingram. Both are 6-4 plus and bring power bats. They will get lots of time to show there stuff this fall. We already know what Rea can do. I expect one or both to get PT late in ball games next year to get ready for 2015. I expect Rea to get drafted and gone, he is a 4th year junior.

Second Base

Brett Pirtle, Senior: he was the starter for most of 2013 but wouldn't be surprised if he gets moved to short stop. A great defender and hitter who played in the Cape this summer. Alex Detz, Senior: could play here too. Matthew Britton, Junior: a player who needs to come on strong in the fall, this is his time. Kyle Hann, Sophomore: a niftly little player with a big bat. He could play 2B, SS or 3B.  He will play a lot.

Short Stop

All four second baseman could play here too. The new guy is Reid Humphreys, Freshman: highly touted player. His half brother plays in MLB. At 6-2 190, he is big and rangy. Could also be a factor at 3B. I expect Humphreys to play a lot.

Third Base

Detz was the starter here down the stretch. Hann will get a long look here as will Humphreys. Lots of shifting could go on in fall to determine the best fit.