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Hernando Today

For Ridge Manor All-Stars, Eight is Enough

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By TONY CASTRO SPORTS EDITOR

Hernando Today

Published: June 25, 2008

Ridge Manor's Senior Boys (14-year-old) All-Stars are hoping to buck a recent trend.

The East Hernando County program travels to East Pasco County tonight at 8 p.m. to face Ocala-Oak Griner in the opening round of the 7-team, double elimination District 6 Tournament.

Over the past four years, Ridge Manor has not had any success in this age group in all-star action.

Since 2004, RM is a combined 0-for-8 overall and has been outscored by 74 runs, 89-15.

Last year's skipper, Jimmy Miller, returns to helm this summer.

Miller went 0-2 last summer as his team was outscored 25-1.

What's the overall outlook?

"We're not bad," described Miller. "But we can get better. At this point I think we can hold our own."

This year's Ridge Manor All-Star squad features: UTIL James Alvarez, RF Justin Bard, LF Levy Burchfield , 3B Coty Cramer, CF Austin Duell, C Tyler Gaskin, SS Trevor Gibson, P/SS Rigo Rojero, 1B Cody Thompson, P/2B Andrew Zabriskie and assistant coach Matt Norris.

RM: 101
 
Miller was asked to describe his team offensively.
"We have very little power," explained Miller. "We'll have to manufacture runs. Our top two batters will be Rigo (Rojero) and Andrew (Zabriskie). Both of those guys can bunt or hit away."
Look for Cramer in the critical No. 3 slot in the line-up with Levy batting clean-up.
"Cramer has hit 'em over," said Miller. "But he's not as consistent. And Levy is more of a gap hitter."
For a team bereft of power, everyone must be able to run well, right?
"We're not fast at all," shrugged Miller. "I sure hope we get some speed."
On the hill, expect either Rojero or Cramer to battle for the top pitching honors. Miller believes his mound staff includes five pitchers.
Defensively, Gaskin will handle the duties behind the dish while Gibson will man shortstop.
"We'll be alright defensively," cautioned Coach Miller. "We just need everybody to make plays. As long they do that, we're alright."
How important is Ridge Manor's first game?
"It's the biggest thing going on," Miller said. "The kids know it, too. Overall, it's a young team. But I believe anybody can be beat. We just have to play consistently."
 
2008 Ridge Manor 14s Roster
Name   Position(s)
James Alvarez  UTIL
Justin Bard  RF
Levy Berchfield LF
Coty Cramer  3B
Austin Duell  CF
Tyler Gaskin  C
Trevor Gibson  SS
Rigo Rojero  P/SS
Cody Thompson 1B
Andrew Zabriskie P/2B
Head Coach - Jimmy Miller.
Assistant Coach - Matt Norris.
 
COMING ATTRACTIONS
WHO - Host Wesley Chapel, Wildwood, Spring Hill, Sumter, Ridge Manor, Oak Griner and Hernando.
WHAT - Dixie Youth League Senior Boys (14-year-olds) District 6 All-Star Tournament at Wesley Chapel. Format is double elimination.
WHERE - Wesley Chapel Park.
WHEN - June 25-30.
AT STAKE - Only district champion advances to Florida State Championship Tournament in Marianna.

Sports Editor Tony Castro can be reached at (352) 544-5278 or online at acastro@hernandotoday.com

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