Agoura

Chargers Head coach: Scott Deck (2nd season) Last season’s results: 12-15, 5-9 in league (6th in Marmonte)

Biggest loss: Grant Hirneise, 3B; J.T. Trelatsky, P

Notable returnees: Jason Novak, P; Robert Stock, P; Drew Norton, CF; Greg Gelber, P; Scott Scherr 3B/2B/SS

Impact newcomer: Miles Rattet, senior, C/OF

Pitching Ace: Jason Novak

Biggest bat: Drew Norton

Overview: In a league marked by quality pitching, the Chargers’ four-man rotation is the most envied in the Marmonte.

Anchored by the league’s best one-two punch, UCLA-bound Novak and USA Youth National Team member Stock, the Chargers’ have a stable full of work horses who should keep Agoura in every game. Both Novak and Stock are proven winners, with the sophomore already drawing comparisons to Dodger closer Eric Gagne. Gelber and junior Jason Stoffel round out a lineup that’s won’t be easy to beat come the postseason.

Offensively, the Chargers need to find a way to get proper run support if Agoura is to contend for its first Marmonte League title in program history.

Head coach Deck will look for production from Norton, a returning all-Marmonte League centerfielder, and senior infielder Scherr. Oaks Christian transfer Miles Rattet is another positive addition to the lineup.

It’s important to note that the Agoura pitching staff, mainly Stock, Stoffel and Novak, are all capable of helping their own cause at the plate.

In a nutshell: In baseball, quality pitching is the milestone of nearly every championship team, and from that perspective, things are looking mighty fine for the Chargers.

As long as their arms stay healthy and the Agoura bats get working early, the Chargers should contend with Royal, Thousand Oaks and Moorpark for the top three spots in Marmonte. If they do, look out in the postseason, where Deck thinks his team can do the most damage.