A deep batting order will key the Langley Blaze in 2011 as they look for another B.C. Premier Baseball League pennant.
“We are real deep this year, we are going to hit well one through nine,” said Blaze coach Jamie Bodaly.
“Our seven through nine hitters could hit in the middle for some other teams.”
The Blaze were second in the league in batting average last season and while in most years the team has relied on its pitching staff to overcome any deficiencies, this year Bodaly says they will be out-hitting their problems.
But as is the case most seasons, the team will not have its full arsenal for the entire season.
Four of their players – shortstop Justin Atkinson, third-baseman Dustin Houle, centre-fielder Jerod Bartnik and pitcher Tom Robson – will miss time to play with the Canadian national junior team program.
To be successful, Bodaly says it is just of paying attention to details.
“Just do the little things right,” he said. “If we take care of the little things, then the big things will follow.”
Robson gets the call as the team’s opening day pitcher for tomorrow’s (Saturday) doubleheader against the Abbotsford Cardinals. The team also has a doubleheader at McLeod Park on Sunday against the North Shore Twins (noon and 3 p.m.)