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Blue Devils stepping up to plate in new roles
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Published: April 6, 2009
Ian Walters has waited his turn, and now he's taking advantage of it.
The senior lefty has been on varsity for three years, but previously found himself behind a talented group of upperclassmen. That limited him to a relief or spot-starter type of role.
Walters earned a top spot in the starting rotation this year, and he's making it count.
"Coming into this season, he knew it was his turn," Blue Devils coach Jeff Burchett said. "He's been with us for three years, and he knows what to expect. He's done well."
Walters is 2-0 in four appearances this year with a 0.88 ERA after going 6-0 last year.
He doesn't overpower batters, but has excellent movement on his pitches and rarely gives up big hits.
"He threw most of our midweek nonconference games last year and won all of them," Burchett said. "He pounds the strike zone and doesn't really give up anything major. He does a good job for us."
Burchett used Jon Crucitti as a do-everything player last year. Crucitti, who transferred to West Rowan, played third base, catcher and outfield throughout the season.
Senior Nathan Abraham has stepped into that role this year after spending his time at second base last season.
"Abraham can take on that role," Burchett said. "He's already played second, third and outfield this year. And he's taken on that role as a senior, and has not complained."
Abraham is back to being fully healthy after having surgery on his hand after football season. Batting .381, he is a mainstay at the top of the order.
Daniel Brannon and Jordan Shoaf both kept pace with the NPC leaders with their showing at last week's golf match.
Brannon carded a season-best 37 and Shoaf fired a 39, his second consecutive match shooting better than a 40.
In the tight NPC individual standings, the two are tied for 10th place.
Mooresville's steady tennis team will have its match of the year today.
The Blue Devils, ranked No. 6 in the state among 3A teams, will face No. 2 Lake Norman on the road.
The winner will have a huge leg up in the battle for a North Piedmont 3A championship.
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