June, 1996 |
Drew and Tanner Lead Baseball Team
State Tourney for First Time in a Decade
By Timothy Graves
Wheel of Fortune King Ricky Tanner hit paydirt again, blasting a home run in the opening round game of the State Championship Baseball Tournament. But the senior captain's shot was the only hit the Hilltoppers could muster as they were ousted by South Windsor in a taut 2-1 contest.
Although Tanner won't take home $17, 000 as he did a year ago as a Wheel of Fortune contestant, he and fellow captain Jeff Drew complete their Central baseball careers with the satisfaction of leading the Hilltoppers to their first state tournament bid in a decade. "I'd say Jeff's been our MVP," said Tanner.
Ace pitcher Robert Rotonto was the workhorse for the team which fought the tough FCIAC competition and recorded a record of 12-8. "Rotonto's as good a pitcher as I've seen this year," said Assistant Coach Eric Graf, who recently completed a standout college career as pitcher for Rutgers. Rotonto was also one of the team's most productive hitters.
Early in the season the team's Achilles' heel was defense. Things could have been a lot worsewithout first baseman Luis DeLeon. "He's the best I've ever seen at saving errant throws," said Tanner. DeLeon returned Tanner's praise: "He has a good attitude and he provides a lot of leadership."
Third baseman Hayden Bernard, Outfielder Mike Garcia, and Catcher Eric Hernandez were superb performers throughout the year. The team returns all starters next year except Tanner and Drew. Sophomore Jeffrey Simpson may also give a boost to the varsity squad. "He's one of the nicest kids in the school and one of our best young players," said Assistant Coach Patrick Micinillio, who was the catcher for the last Hilltopper team to make it to the state tournament in 1987.
