University of Southern Mississippi Athletics
Baseball Continues Preparation For Season Opener
2/4/2002 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
Baseball Continues Preparation For Season Opener
"We've had a good week of practice, and I am pleased with where we are as a team," Palmer said. "It takes a while at the beginning of the season, but the offense has caught up to the pitching. Brad Willcutt (r-Fr./C) and Jarrett Hoffpauir (Fr./2B) both continue to hit the ball well and have shown good offensive skills thus far."
The pitching staff also continues to show consistency with Shea Douglas (Jr./LHP) and Daniel Stewart (Sr./RHP) leading the staff at this point.
"I'm pleased with the progress that Shea and Daniel continue to show in their pitching each day," Palmer said. "We still are working hard to develop depth in our staff, not only with the starters but with our relievers as well."
The defense is solid with the middle infield still receiving praise from the coaching staff. Beau Griffin has shown a lot of improvement behind the dish as a backup to Willcutt.
"Beau is really making a lot of progress with his work as a catcher," Palmer said. "He should be ready to give us another good catcher once the season opens. Matt Benson, Hoffpauir and Matt Shepherd really have worked hard on their defense."
Coach Scott Berry is working with the Golden Eagles and have been installing the offensive package.
"We've been working on bunting, hit and run, stealing bases and doing a lot of different things we did last year." Palmer said. "Coach Berry is doing a great job of teaching these young players about offensive baseball."
Southern Miss will continue practicing this week and next week before opening on Fri., Feb. 15th. Practices will start at 2:30 p.m., and run until 5:30 p.m. They are open to the public.
