Simi Valley Pioneers

Head coach: Matt La Belle (3rd season) Last season's results: 16-12, 5-9 in league (7th in Marmonte) Biggest losses: Bryan Anderson, C; Ben Orloff, SS Notable returnees: Nick Giarraputo, 2B; Aaron Pelone, 3B; Frankie Reed, P; Nick Barnese, P/OF Impact newcomer: Jake Reed, junior, C Pitching ace: Nick Barnese Biggest bat: Nick Giarraputo Overview: The 2004 CIF Division II champion Pioneers fell on hard times a year ago, finishing 16-12 overall and just 5-9 in the Marmonte. La Belle, however, has his squad headed in the right direction, and according to several coaches in the league, Simi Valley could be the surprise team of '06. Early preseason wins over Hart and Canyon should give the Pioneers positive momentum heading into league play.

Simi's rotation is solid with Nick Barnese as the ace of the staff and southpaw Nick Russo serving as the No. 2 starter. Senior Frankie Reed will work as the team's closer once again.

Catcher Jake Reed is in charge of handling the Pioneer pitching staff. Jake Reed replaces Bryan Anderson, who's now playing for the St. Louis Cardinals' organization. Jeff Forgerson and basketball/football standout Collin Franklin will battle for time at first base. The 6-foot-5 Franklin will also see some action in the outfield.

Nick Giarraputo moves from third base to second base. At 6-foot4, 205 pounds, Giarraputo will surely be the biggest second baseman in the league, and perhaps the county. Sophomore Matt Orloff takes over for his brother Ben at shortstop. The elder Orloff now plays at UC Irvine. Aaron Pelone will work the hot corner.

Senior Matt McFadden, the Pioneer leadoff hitter, can play both center and left fields. Brett Hale is expected to patrol right field. Junior outfielder Jordan Flores is a transfer from Royal High. Simi's remaining roster consists of Matt Hibbard, Brandon Garza, Chris Stantzos and Andrew Majorski. Head coach Matt La Belle says: "We've worked real hard on doing the little things right-moving guys over and situational hitting-and our guys have really bought into that, which we didn't do a great job of last year."