2013 preview: Charleston Southern

Fifteenth in a series
Today's answers are by Charleston Southern pitching coach Adam Ward

PSB: After what you saw in fall workouts, what are your team's prospects for the 2013 season?

AW: In a Big South Conference that is full of parity, the expectation is to contend for a spot in the top portion of the conference with an eye on making an impact in the conference tournament. The 2012 season saw us finish one game out of fourth place in the Big South while also posting a 4-11 record in one-run games. Improvement is needed in this area with hopes of moving into the top part of the conference.

PSB: What are your biggest areas of concern entering the 2013 season?

AW: Several position battles are still ongoing. Not concerns yet, but a starting second baseman, left fielder, key bullpen roles, and midweek starters are still to be determined. We will need increased offensive production to emerge from the bottom half of the lineup to improve in 2013.

PSB: In what areas does your team appear to be improved from the 2012 season?

AW: Pitching staff depth is improved. There are also more players with experience likely to have significant roles in 2013. With 11 seniors, leadership should be a strength.

PSB: Based on fall workouts, which returnees from 2012 (including redshirts) look best prepared to play a bigger role in 2013?

AW: Junior shortstop Alex Tomasovich had an excellent fall and will hit in the middle of the lineup. Senior right-handed pitcher Kevin Buran has emerged as a likely weekend starter. We also look for continued outstanding play from all-conference sophomore center fielder Bobby Ison, who will hit leadoff, and all-conference and freshman all-American sophomore right fielder Chase Shelton.

PSB: Based on fall workouts, which newcomers are most likely to contend for major roles in 2013?

AW: Freshman left-handed pitcher Andrew Tomasovich (Fort Mill), brother of shortstop Alex Tomasovich, had an outstanding fall and will likely man one of the weekend rotation spots. Two pitchers from Brunswick Community College right-hander Joe Pistacchio and left-hander Tory Schroff, will have important roles on the pitching staff. Freshman infielder Kevin Hickey (Hilton Head) will compete for a starting infield position in the preseason.

Saturday: College of Charleston