Coaching Adjustments and Freshmen Propel Hot Start

Chaffey's baseball team is off to its best start under head coach Andrew Smith, with a 6-2-1 record. Their thrilling 7-6 extra-innings victory over College of the Canyons on Wednesday was fueled by coaching staff adjustments to the player's approach at the plate.

The offense erupted early in the season, scoring 40 runs in their first three games. However, head coach Andrew Smith acknowledged, "bats don't stay that hot forever," a reality that became evident in the Glendale series. 

"We were trying to do too much in the batters box," Smith explained. "It's unrealistic that we would keep scoring like that. Real baseball is ugly, messy, and hard. But we have to be disciplined in the box and find a way to win."

In the 3-3 tie against Glendale, a game called due to darkness, the Panthers missed a sweep opportunity due to "inconsistencies and undisciplined batting," according to Smith. He added, "We didn't draw any walks, again just doing and thinking too much." Despite this, Smith praised Glendale's program and coach. "That's a great coach over there at Glendale...We have to be able to close games like that. I'm proud of the guys for battling; going 1-1-1 against that program shows that we are a good team..

Smith reminds his players to focus on fundamental details. "We need to stay more focused on the process over individual results and let the game come naturally." He further cautions, "I told the guys after yesterday's win that we are getting away with mistakes because we're a talented team, but the details and fundamentals need to clean up in order to become a complete ball club."

Freshman pitchers Nick Sanchez and Ryan Harrison are key members for the team. Sanchez, a 6'1" right-hander from Rancho Cucamonga, has a 1-0 record with 2 saves, 14 strikeouts, and a 2.16 ERA in five appearances. Harrison, a fellow freshman from Upland, California, carries a 1.42 ERA and 10 strikeouts in his two games. Sophomore outfielder Ryan Melton, though currently injured, remains a vital part of the team. According to Smith, "He is a great dugout guy, constantly working to get us information on our opponent, and is a great teammate. We look forward to him getting back out there in a few weeks."

WHAT'S NEXT
The Panthers will host Santa Barbara City College on Saturday, February 15. First pitch is scheduled at 1:30 p.m.