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11U Macomb Mudhens
The Macomb Mudhens Baseball Club is a program that is definitely on the rise. Straight out of the North, the Mudhens are looking to change the thought that Northern teams do not compete well with Southern teams. Last year, the Mudhens were nationally recognized with a win over the defending national champions, the American Avengers and the 3rd place finisher, the Charlotte Megastars. The Mudhens also posted victories over top ranked teams such as the Oklahoma Jammers, Tennessee Homers (the Tennessee State Champions), and 3rd place finisher in the Elite 24, the Ohio Diamondhawks. They have a record of 72-10 against teams their own age. The coaching staff consists of Tony and Scott Leonard, Al Manduzzi, George Papadelis, and Butch Zeimis. All are very dedicated coaches that are focused on advancing the Mudhens to the next level.
The Mudhens added 5 new players to their roster; each will add strength to the team both offensively and defensively. Hard throwing RH/SS Pete Zeimis, smooth fielding Nick Plummer P/1B, and all around fielder Max Weiss, have all been playing up since the age of 8 yrs old. Another hard throwing RH, Jaden King, was the top pitcher the last 2yrs for NFWB. The Mudhens also added power hitting Shea Patterson (from the Ohio Diamondhawks) who will add depth to the catchers spot.
Returning to the Mudhens is catcher Andrew Manduzzi who is possibly one of the top catchers in the country. Strong throwing RH Brandon Osuna who has lost only 3 games in 2 yrs returns to the mound. The consistent left-handed
hitting of John Storm will lead the team at the plate. Andrew Papadelis will man the CF spot. With his speed and defensive catches, he is a sight to see. The strong hitting Carl Gretz and Riley Miller will also add power to an already loaded line up. Jordan Leonard and Zach Zombo will continue to cause havoc on the bases. They are the youngest Mudhens on the team, but both of these individuals play at the highest level of intensity.
Of the 15 tournaments in which the Mudhens have played at their own age, they have been the champions in 13. They will have a challenging schedule this year by playing 8 of their 12 tournaments up in the 12AAA division and also by playing in the 12AAA World Series. They will begin the Mudhens season in Atlanta at the Super NIT and will also play The Michigan Major Tournament in both 11u and 12u. This should better prepare them for battle at the Elite 24.
Tony is in his 3rd year with the team and has continually added the best talent from Michigan and even Ohio. Their own indoor training facility, good coaching, and a passion for the game guarantee that this team will be a force to watch. Coach Tony says,” We have assembled a team that we feel can compete at a high level for years to come".
TBS will keep an eye on the Mudhens as they migrate south to show that they are an elite team.
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Last Updated on Tuesday, 23 September 2008 08:10 |