By Michael Moreci
For last season’s class 4A state runner-up Kokomo, 2008 may present a considerable challenge. The Wildkats have consistently been the Goliath in their conference, even their class. But with nine players graduating from last year’s team, the Wildkats find themselves in an unusual position: underdog.
“This group of guys, not many of them have big game experience,” coach Steve Edwards said. “With some of the big dogs we have around here, it’s tough. Every team in our section has won a state title.”
Kokomo is likely to suit up six sophomores this season, maybe even eight once the tournament begins. That doesn’t mean that Edwards is lacking confidence; after all, one of the sophomores Kokomo will be relying on is SS T.J. Weir, who Edwards considers one of the best in the state. He also expects big things for sophomore C Nolan Sanburn.
Of course, the Wildkats will be able to count on Georgia Tech-bound LHP Bryce Robinson (pictured right) and his ability to do just about everything. Last season on the bump, Robinson went 10-0 with a 0.83 ERA; he struck out 129 in 79 innings and gave up a slim nine runs. When he wasn’t pitching, Robinson mans center field and bats in the five spot. In 2007, he hit .310 with 4 homers and 25 RBIs.
Joining Robinson in the heart of the order will be sophomore 1B Devin Schacht and senior OF Craig Dollens (.383 BA). Senior OF Tyler Imbierowicz will also be in the mix.
Kokomo’s main hurdle will come in its pitching staff. Besides Robinson and senior RHP Colton Hopwood (3-1, 3.76 ERA, 22 IP), the Wildkats are without three of their top pitchers from last season (totaling 100 innings lost). They’ll rely on what is essentially a new rotation, one Edwards is confident will improve as the season goes on.
“They just need to get an opportunity to prove themselves,” Edwards said.
One thing is certain though: when tournament time comes, good or bad, Kokomo will be seasoned. Their conference is loaded with top-flight teams (Anderson, Huntington North, Logansport), so the Wildkats won’t go without a good measure of battle-testing.