Feb. 15, 2008

Part One: OUTFIELD

Dayton baseball has prided itself on playing solid defense especially in the infield as a key to its success. DaytonFlyers.com takes a look at the Flyer infield in the second segment of a five-part series previewing the 2008 season.

The Flyers ranked sixth in the Atlantic 10 Conference in fielding percentage (.970) and fifth in double plays turned (50) last season. UD could be even better this season according to Head Coach Tony Vittorio.

"Defense has always been a priority in our program and will always be a focal point," Vittorio said. "This year should be no different because of our consistency in the infield."

Dayton will have the task of replacing one of the best left sides of the infield in the Atlantic 10 Conference in shortstop Michael Massa and third baseman Joe McSoley. A pair of players looking to make their Flyer debut will look to step into the roles and lead the group with both their gloves and bats.

"We definitely have been spoiled the last four years having Michael Massa and Joe McSoley manning the left side of the infield because they were so solid defensively," Vittorio commented. "We do feel that we have good replacements for them in Jimmy Roesinger at shortstop and Ryan Nevill at third base."

Roesinger reshirted last season after leading Indianapolis' Cathedral High School to the 2006 IHSAA State Finals and a 31-3 record. He hit .323 as a senior and earned the prestigous IHSAA L.V. Phillips Mental Attitude Award.

Nevill comes to UD in 2008 after two seasons at Lake Land Community College. He appeared in 75 games over the past two years and tallied 21 of his 65 hits for extra bases while also recording 16 stolen bases.

"They are both very skilled defensive players and ready to take on the challenge," Vittorio said. "Jimmy Roesinger will move the ball offensively as Ryan Nevill has the skill level to be one of the best hitters on the team."

Cole Tyrell returns for UD at second base after appearing 51 of the team's 54 games during his first collegiate season in 2008. He was second on the team in stolen bases (eight) and fifth in doubles (10) last season. The Minooka, IL native also improved his game during the offseason by representing the Central Illinois Collegiate League in a Summer All-Star game.

"Cole will continue to play second base and spent a lot of time over there last year," Vittorio said. "He is a very talented defensive player and we look for him to take off offensively this year."

The Flyers will go to another newcomer at first base in Marshall MacDonald this season. MacDonald will make the move from behind the plate to help the program to showcase his offensive skills that allowed him to hit .391 and earn First Team All-Conference honors at Colby Community College last season.

Marshall has made good adjustments defensively and getting better every day," Vittorio said. "His strength is definitely his offense as he should hit for both average and power in our lineup."

A number of players can step up in a pinch or off the bench for the Flyers this season in the infield.

"Jacob Spaeth should allow us some depth by coming from the outfield to the infield when needed," Vittorio commented. "Zach Lammers is a freshman infielder who is getting better every day. He has good bat control that should develop with collegiate experience. Stephen Konsler and Jonathan Castine could provide some offense in a pinch hitting or DH role."

Next up, www.DaytonFlyers.com will preview the Flyer catchers on Sunday leading up to the season-opening doubleheader at Campbell on Friday, February 22. The entire three-game series between the Flyers and the Camels can be followed from Buies Creek, NC with Live Stats at www.DaytonFlyers.com.