Baseball has six senior division one commits

Sean McDonald
Staff Writer

The talent of high school baseball players is not very spread out in the United States, it remains concentrated in certain areas, with Southern California being one of these hotspots in which some of this extreme talent lies.

Not only is it host to some of the most prestigious college baseball teams in the country, but is also fields some of the most competitive high school baseball. Unbeknownst to some, Mira Costa has slowly built a very talented program.

“I think we have really developed a solid program,” senior catcher Brett Davis said. “We have six division one commits right now, and I think that is pretty impressive.”

Six seniors have already committed to play at the college level at schools such as Penn State, Georgia, Pepperdine, Hofstra, and Hawaii. Some of them even committed as early as before their junior year.

“I committed to Georgia just before my junior year started,” senior Will Proctor said. “I want to focus on this year though because I think we really have a chance to be successful.”

Last year Costa had the highest winning percentage in school history, finishing at 23-9 overall and winning Bay League after sweeping Redondo. The team lost senior leadership but that gap is filled in with arguably one of the most skilled classes in recent history.

“I think what makes us really good this year is the fact that we have all been playing together for such a long time,” senior Zack Chan said. “When you combine that with the talent we already have, only good things can come.”

Costa will start the year most likely with a lineup consisting heavily of seniors, but will have to look into their younger depth to fill in some areas in defense and pitching. There are less than five juniors on the team, and there are also two sophomores, although the roster is subject to change throughout the season.

“I’m excited to be a part of this year’s team,” sophomore Jesse Storey said. “I think we have a lot of ability, but younger players will also have to step up.”

One of the big questions this year is pitching, due to the departure of Michael Rumpp, a three year Varsity pitcher. Franklin, who is committed to Pepperdine, will be the number one, most likely followed by Storey as the number two. After that, the rest of the rotation is pretty much up for grabs.

“Whatever the outcome this year, I just want to have some fun,” Proctor said. “This is the last year that I will get to play baseball with all of my good friends, so I want this to be a special year.”