By By JEFF FISHER / Edwardsburg Argus
Head baseball coach Dan Purlee, 32-96 in five seasons at Cass, is hoping for a breakout season from …. all of his players.
The Rangers will look to improve on a 0-14 Lakeland Conference and 7-15 overall record. The Rangers lost in the district semi-final against Colon, 15-3 to end the season last year.
Cass will have five returning seniors, two juniors, two sophomores and one freshman.
"Our strength will be our team speed, but our weakness will be experience," Dan Purlee said.
The top statistical leader returning is sophomore catcher Nick Davis.
A goal that Purlee has set for his squad is to be competitive in every game and to take one for the team.
Purlee sees Berrien Springs, Bridgman, and Coloma as the top teams in the conference.
"The Lakeland Conference is always extremely tough. Our offseason workouts went well. Many of my players were in either wrestling or played basketball," Purlee added. "I just want to get the kids to play the game hard and the right way."
Three of those players that saw action on the hardwood were Paul Curtis, Nick Davis, and DaShaun Curtis.
Completing the returning Ranger roster are Paul Curtis, centerfielder, Leddrew Smith, pitcher/infielder, Jonathon Foster, pitcher/first base, Austin Francis, second base, Josh Deubner, first base, Mike DeGraff, catcher/third base, Tyler First, outfielder, Nick Davis, catcher, Travis Elledge, infielder and DaShaun Curtis.
Purlee will have Matt Brawley and Jeff Wernett as his assistant coaches.
The Rangers open the season with Buchanan at home on Tuesday April 10.