Preseason Preview: USC Beaufort

This is the eighth in a series of previews of state baseball teams. Today, USC Beaufort coach Rick Sofield resports.

Palmetto State Baseball: What is the outlook for your team this season?
Rick Sofield: We are returning the majority of our team from last year. We finished 20th in the final NAIA poll and are currently ranked 18th . If we can stay healthy and keep everything in perspective we should have an exciting year and chance to be in big games at the end of the season.

PSB: Based on what you saw in fall workouts, which newcomers seem most ready to contribute from the start of the season?
RS: Dexter Price RHP is a transfer from Auburn and very talented. He will be in our starting rotation. He makes us better. Mike Heesch LHP is a transfer from U of Illinois Chicago. Big strong country boy that is very talented will make an impact here. Ty Main OF – S/L – Is a tremendous player. Transfer from James Madison. He has all the tools to help us win games. He play all 3 phases very well. Dan Wass SS is a JUCO transfer from Faulkner CC and led his team to the JUCO World Series. Brett Martin JUCO transfer – Catcher – From Garrett CC can flat hit and give us a great catching combo for the weekends

PSB: Based on what you saw in fall workouts, what area of your team is of the most concern entering the season?
RS: Pitching Depth is always on my mind. We lost our best overall guy (Kyle McCullough to surgery – Tommy John) we also lost a guy to academics. So I’m worried about depth.

PSB: Which returnees from 2010 do you think fans will see the most improvement in for 2011?
RS:Gabe Torres, Davis O’Neil, Spencer Jackson, RJ Neal, DeShonta Berry, Colton Rudd, Andres Castro, Jorge Olmo, Keifer Youmans are all back and more committed. He have really work to take the next step. They have worked very hard and in the correct mindset. Hopefully that’s = Wins!