ShawneeDispatch.com

Six returning letter winners, including three pitchers, is a reason to make Maranatha Academy baseball coach Melvin Moyer smile when thinking of the upcoming 2008 season.

Only seven other players total, including several who have never played high school baseball before, is a reason why Moyer's smile is tenuous.

The Eagles are fighting a numbers battle this spring, with only 13 players out for varsity baseball. There are good bats and good arms in the mix, according to Moyer, but the depth of this season's team is a concern.

"We're low on numbers this year," Moyer said. "We have two girls who will be playing with us this year. We have 13 total players, including six that have never played at the high school level."

Still, Moyer isn't asking anyone to feel sorry for his group. In fact, the Eagles' coach said he believes this season's squad has the tools to improve on last year's 8-6 mark.

"Right now the strength is our senior leadership," Moyer said. "This team is willing to work. They don't complain. They are very coachable."

Like Senior outfielder/pitcher Jacob Johnson. He led the team in hitting last year with a .418 average and will return to the top of the order in the lineup.

Adding power to the batting order will be senior catcher Ryan Kernicky who blasted three home runs last season. Cameron Cochran brings his career lead in stolen bases back to the lineup, while Kyle Mowrer will move into the infield after playing in the outfield last season.

Moyer also expects help from newcomers Jessica Lamb - who is transitioning from softball - and freshman Brady Bergerhoffer, who is recovering from a broken collarbone suffered during basketball season.

The Eagles will be forced into a test immediately with their first game against St. James, but Moyer said he feels that the bigger competition early on the schedule will help Maranatha in the long run.

Moyer's practice schedule has been limited by inclement weather and a lack of adequate practice facilities.

The shortage of time on a real playing surface has left some question marks without answers, so Moyer hopes that actual competition and better weather will provide some solutions. He's also hoping that his seniors move the process of finding those roles along.

"Our practices have been limited due to weather and facilities," Moyer said. "It's hard to tell exactly what to expect because we haven't had time on the field."

The Eagles played St. James Academy on Tuesday afternoon. Results were not available at press time.