Newbury Park

Panthers Head coach: Scott Drootin (2nd season) Last season’s results: 10-13, 4-10 in league (last in Marmonte)

Biggest loss: Chuck Fick, P (4-6, 3.42 ERA, .494 BA)

Notable returnees: Cody Fierro, 1B/P (7 HRs, 31 RBI); Travis Scott SS/P (3-4, 4.52 ERA, 10 steals); Andy Kellogg, P (18 Ks in 32 innings)

Impact newcomer: Jason Anderson, senior, CF

Pitching Ace: Travis Scott

Biggest bat: Cody Fierro

Overview: Head coach Scott Drootin begins his second season at Newbury Park optimistic that the correct pieces are in place to turn around a program that finished in the league’s cellar last year. "We’ve got some really pesky players that can do the little things right, like get on base, move people over and steal some bases," Drootin said. "That’s how we have to play to be successful…real baseball."

Leading the Panthers’ offensive attack will be seniors Scott (.343 BA, 23 hits) and Fierro (.380 BA, 7 doubles). Fierro was named first-team all-league in 2004 after clubbing a team-high seven home runs. Scott, a defensive wizard at shortstop who committed only four errors, was chosen as a second-team selection. In addition to their offensive prowess, both players figure to be essential in the team’s starting rotation.

Keep an eye on senior catcher Joe Garza. He posted big numbers during winter ball and provides the necessary on-field leadership that will be vital to a Panthers’ pitching staff that lacks proven arms out of the bullpen.

Newbury Park lists four sophomores on its opening-day roster, more than any other school in the Marmonte. After starting 0-7 in league play last year, the Panthers went 4-3 down the stretch.

In a nutshell: The Panthers must get strong pitching from Scott, Fierro and senior Evan Condran to remain in the hunt for one of the Marmonte’s three Division I playoff spots. Team defense, an Achilles’ heel a year ago, is expected to be a strength.