Leesburg, Fla. – The Lake-Sumter State College baseball program is set for its 19th season of play this January. Head Coach, Rich Billings will lead the team for the third consecutive year. The Lakehawks are coming off a season where the team went 15-31 overall and 6-18 in Mid-Florida Conference play. The MFC is in Region 8 of the NJCAA and saw more players drafted into Major League Baseball in 2017 (33) than any other state at any collegiate level.
After sending more than 10 players on to the four-year level, LSSC has a very young squad going into 2018 with 19 freshman poised to make their collegiate debuts. A group handpicked by coach Billings to create a perfect blend of speed and offensive power. The pitching staff is full of newcomers looking to keep the ball on the ground and the score low, giving their team a chance in every ball game.
Finishing inside the top 10 in Region eight in stolen bases in 2017 (75), the Lakehawks look to return to form this season. "We've got solid speed this season and we plan to utilize it," said Billings. LSSC was caught stealing just 14 times last year, which was fourth in the region. The team also looks to top their 27 home runs and 220+ runs driven in from a year ago.
"I cannot wait to see our guys get out there and compete," Billings noted. "This is one of the most energetic groups we've had in a long time and I'm excited to see them perform." Some of the players to watch entering the season are Jarrett Backus (INF), Fletcher Byrd (LHP), Xavier Rodriguez (INF/RHP) and Maurice James (OF).
The 2018 Season will get started Friday, Jan. 26 on the road facing off against Polk State. First pitch is scheduled for 5:00 pm.