University of Southern Mississippi Athletics
Baseball Staff Pleased With First Week of Practice
1/26/2002 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
Baseball Staff Pleased With First Week of Practice
The team will play an intersquad scrimmage at Pete Taylor Park/Hill Denson Field on Sunday, Jan. 27, at 1:30 p.m., which is open to the public.
"It was a very good first week," Palmer said. "We were able to get a lot done despite having to fight the weather at times. I am especially pleased with our effort and enthusiasm. They have worked hard offensively and have shown improvement in their hitting.
Palmer also praised the hard work of his middle infield. "I am also impressed with the defense of Matt Benson, Matt Shepherd and Jarrett Hoffpauir. They are working very hard and our middle infield should be strong for us this season."
Players who have stood out in the first week of practice are catcher Brad Willcutt, outfielder Jeff Cook and pitchers Shea Douglas, Stephen Castleman and Bob McCrory.
"Willcutt has gained weight and strength in the offseason," Palmer said. "He is really hitting the ball well and has looked good for us at bat and behind the plate. He will hit somewhere in the middle of the lineup for us this season. Cook continues where he left off last season with his hitting. He has also worked hard in the offseason and is showing a lot early.
"Castleman has come into preseason practice very focused and is pitching well. We talked during the fall, and he knows what he has to do to be successful this season and looks like he has a good start. Douglas is looking like he is in good form early and has been working hard. McCrory and I have also talked about his role with the team this season. He welcomes his new closer role and has been working hard to fill the void left by Anthony Rawson."
After the intersquad scrimmage on Sunday, the Golden Eagles will resume practice again on Monday, starting the second week of practice. The practices will run from 2:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m., each day and open to the public.
