Westlake Warriors





Head coach: Michael Lee (1st season) Last season’s results: 13-15, 8-7 in league (4th in Marmonte) Biggest losses: Joe Raleigh, P; Andrew Doupe, OF; Jordan Ott, IF; Travis Turek, P Notable returnees: Eric Morrison, 1B; Jeff Rapoport, OF; Nick Slezak, P; Cutter Dykstra, SS; Jason Barmasse, 3B; Stephen Notaro, C Impact newcomer: Tyler Malinger, junior, Utility Pitching ace: Nick Slezak Biggest bats: Jeff Rapoport, Cutter Dykstra Overview: Despite a losing overall record, Westlake had a shot at the postseason last year but lost a play-in game to Moorpark. This season, the Marmonte League will get four automatic playoff bids. The Warriors, anchored by former Newbury Park head coach Michael Lee, feel confident they’ll qualify for the postseason.

When discussing Westlake, everything starts with Rapoport and Dykstra, who’ll bat 1-2 in the Warrior lineup. Lee said they’re similar players- excellent speed, excellent power and can hit for average. Rapoport, a center fielder, has already signed with UCLA. Dykstra, the team’s sophomore shortstop, is the son of former major leaguer Lenny Dykstra.

First baseman Eric Morrison is big (6-foot-1, 250 pounds) and can mash. He’ll need to stay healthy to make an impact in the middle of the lineup. Steven Soucy will play second base. Third baseman Jason Barmasse hit .417 in limited at-bats a year ago.

Patrolling left field is Randy Harmala. Jake Fiss and Zach Berman are expected to split time in right. Lee said newcomer Tyler Malinger can play almost any position on the field and will be a valuable asset.

Slezak and Fiss are the team’s top starting pitchers. Harmala, Jeremy Hardman and Notaro should see time out of the bullpen, although Lee said he hasn’t settled on a closer yet and may use several guys in that role.

Stuart Kelley, Mark Sumell, Brad Nutter, Jake Salas, Michael Lang, Alex Gillingham and Graham Johnson complete the WHS roster. Head coach Michael Lee says: “We can hit with anybody in the county. And when the pitching matures and the defense solidifies, we’re going to be extremely tough to beat.”


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