Royal Highlanders

Headcoach: Dan Maye (17th season) Lastseason'sresults:12-11, 4-10 in league (tied for seventh in Marmonte) Biggestlosses: Kevin Harrington, P/OF; Grady Ihnat, P/OF Notablereturnees: Justin Czyrklis, C/3B; Tan- ner Peters, P/OF; Mike Long, 3B; Billy Chase, OF; Kyle Zeuner, 2B/P Impactnewcomer: Matt Magill, junior, P/1B/OF Pitchingace: Tanner Peters Biggestbat: Justin Czyrklis

Overview: Two years ago Royal won the Marmonte League in what head coach Dan Maye calls the third year of a rebuilding process. Last season, many players from that team had graduated and Royal went from first to worst in league play. If the Highlanders follow the same format, they could be very dangerous next season.

As for this year, RHS might lack the depth needed to compete for a postseason bid, but they'll still be a dangerous bunch on any given day.

For Royal to surprise some people, the Highlanders will need to continue to get solid pitching from senior Tanner Peters. Junior Matt Magill, a transfer from Grace Brethren, backs Peters up in the No. 2 spot, while Kyle Zeuner will likely work as a spot starter.

Royal's pitching has looked solid early by only allowing eight runs in its first three games. The Highlander offense hasn't been too productive though, and to compete in this league, RHS must be consistent in the batter's box.

RHS should get offensive help from catcher Justin Czyrklis and Mike Long at third base. Cliff Quick will play shortstop while Mike Vineyard looks to get most of the playing time at second base.

Chris Rock and Scott Liske will split time at first. In the outfield, the Highlanders are hoping to get a lot of run support from the bats of Billy Chase and Zeuner, when he's not pitching.

Head coach Dan Maye says: "This is basically a junior ball club. We have average hitters and some might say we don't have a lot of power. Our main goal for this season is to find a way to get playoff experience before next season. I think that is something that can happen this year."