Fullerton Union High School Baseball Season Preview

With the start of a new season comes new goals, new challenges, and new opportunities for the Fullerton Union High School baseball team. In preparation for the upcoming season, we had the chance to speak with Coach Shaun Hill to get a preview of what we can expect from the team this year. Coach Hill's main goal for the team this season is to compete for their third consecutive league title. However, this may prove to be a challenge as the team graduated 13 players, including all of their pitchers. The key to success this year will be the young pitchers stepping up and filling this void. One of the top returning players from last season is junior catcher Miguel Velasquez. He is committed to play at Cal State Fullerton and is known as one of the best catchers in Southern California. Another standout is junior first baseman Malachi Meni, who was one of the top RBI players in the area last year and has an impressive glove at first base. Junior Zach Fany also returns as a starter since his freshman year and is a formidable baserunner and leadoff hitter. In terms of new players, Coach Hill believes that senior center fielder DJ Garcia and senior third baseman/right-handed pitcher Carlos Barrios will make an immediate impact on the team. Both players were injured last season but are healthy and ready to contribute this year. Keep an eye out for sophomore right-handed pitcher Declan Fitzgerald as well, who Coach Hill expects to be their ace this season. When it comes to team captains, Coach Hill looks for players who work hard both on and off the field and are respected by their teammates. This season, Malachi Meni, Zach Fany, DJ Garcia, and Carlos Barrios are all potential candidates for the role. Building a strong team chemistry and camaraderie is crucial for success on the field. Coach Hill takes pride in the close and tight bond that the team has developed since he took over as coach. They treat each other like family and hold each other accountable, which is essential for a successful team dynamic. As for motivation, the competitive atmosphere within the team helps push each player to reach their full potential. They all have a common goal – to win – and will continue to push each other to meet the high standard they have set for themselves.