District 4AAA Predictions

[hmslb32]

Let's hear what everyone thinks about this district this year, and an analysis of each team if you know the teams well.

[bizazz]

I've "graduated". Somebody else throw in their 2 cents.

 

I believe in general it will be the same contenders as before.

 

How many starters is Heritage replacing?

[dheat]

Heritage has at least 5 starters returning. Should be strong. WB and Bearden will challenge Farragut for the crown with Heritage, South Doyle, Maryville and Hertiage can finish anywhere from 3rd to 5th

[bizazz]

Heritage took a lot of folks by surprise last year. I don't think they'll slip up on anybody this year.

[dheat]

Depending on how they come together and pitching SD could be strong. Lance is a good pitcher and they have some key players returning. Maryville could be a dark horse. they know how to win and are used to it. Lineup could change day to day. Thre best pitchers are all also everday players.

[bizazz]

Since I started following HS baseball a few years ago Maryville doesn't get mentioned a lot in preseason. Then the season starts and they are right there in the mix.

 

SD should be strong on the mound. McClain and Holland bring a tough 1-2 punch from the left side. IMO they'll have to miss the everyday contributions of Kirkland, Ross, Geren, Zurcher, and Vannoy. If those guys were back this year I think they could challenge Farragut.

[7 Wild Thing 7]

SD did lose a whole lot last year, however, they have a very strong sophomore class. They will still have McClain on the hill, but some of the young guys will come through. 5 of their freshmen played some varsity last year and some that didnt dress varsity would have played on most HS teams. Some of those sophomores are Cody Hawn, Ryan Holland, Eric Conley, Chad Zurcher, Matt Roberts and Bryce Brentz. They will be young, but they should make a big impact.

[HB2021]

BEARDEN SHOULD BE IN THE MIX THIS YEAR. LAST YEAR, BEARDEN STARTED 6 SOPH. POSITION PLAYERS AND 3 SOPH. PITCHERS. FOUR OF THESE SOPH. WENT YARD. WITH MATT BUCKNER IN HIS SECOND YEAR AS COACH, THE BULLDOG NATION SHOULD HAVE MUCH TO CHEER ABOUT.

[bizazz]

I agree that Bearden's current juniors benefited by getting playing time last year. I think they took their lumps at times, but that will happen when you elect to play younger players over veterans.

 

I think West did something similar as far as position players are concerned. Several sophomores started over seniors. West had some defensive issues because of this, but those players will be counted on heavily this year. Where West is in trouble - at least on paper - is in pitching. There were 6 seniors that pitched.

[hmslb32]

Heritage replaces two starters from last year's team easily. Playing for Heritage, I'll leave my comments there. WB will have a few guys that will carry the team, but I don't think you can put them in the class for the top spots with Farragut and Bearden. I suppose Farragut wil reload as always, and Bearden's biggest question is on the mound, but they can make up for it offensively. West, SD, Maryville, WB, and Sevier County will be battling for the 4-8 spots. Any team can make some noise on the right night.

[hmslb32]

bump

[hmerunbll04]

Heritage has at least 5 starters returning. Should be strong. WB and Bearden will  challenge Farragut for the crown with Heritage, South Doyle, Maryville and Hertiage can finish anywhere from 3rd to 5th

825565433[/snapback]

farragut and bearden will be the 2 top seeds going into the district tournament and then here somes those SD boys. you cant beat there pitchin. Heritage is to country to win. Maryville will be down and WB is to young and with Churchill gone to they have no leadership.