In a media day broadcast of California baseball coaches, Horton said that his
team has a long way to go as far as getting chemistry as well as finding out the
talent of his team.
While the Titans will be looking to contend for a Big West title, it remains
to be seen how they will step up. There are 21 new players, a departed coach and
a coaching staff with new roles. In addition, the Titans are battling injuries
that may hinder the team's attempt to get off to a fast start.
Horton said at the media day press conference that it might not be until the
2007 Titans get into Big West play will they able to find out how good this team
will be.
Leaders on the roster will be veteran catcher John Curtis, third baseman Evan
McArthur and ace pitcher Wes Roemer.
Curtis was drafted by the Los Angeles Angels last year, but didn't sign.
Horton said that Curtis had made strides at the plate. Horton raved about
McArthur, saying that he was probably the best defender at third base he has
ever seen. According to a Baseball America report, McArthur is still battling a
sprained wrist injury.
Horton said in the media day broadcast that Roemer is still looking to round
into shape, but is confident his Friday night starter will turn it on once the
season starts. Unfortunately, according to a Baseball America report, Roemer
broke his pinky finger on his throwing hand. Roemer is expected to pitch through
it and get treatment along the way.
In the media day broadcast, Horton talked about the likely Titan starters for
the 2007 season.
Jake Vazquez, a transfer from Texas A&M, will be at first base. The senior
hit .276 with five home runs in 123 at-bats last season.
Joel Weeks, a JuCo transfer replaces Justin Turner at second base. He hit
.330 at Cypress JC last year.
McArthur will be an anchor at third base as long as he stays healthy.
Horton said that shortstop Joe Scott is a "tough young man" and he looks for
him to take advantage of his opportunity.
The Titans will look to be stable with Curtis behind the plate.
In leftfield, Nick Mahin, a transfer from Santa Ana College looks to take
over for Danny Dorn.
Centerfielder Clark Hardmanlooks to bounce back from injuries and another
transfer from Texas A&M, Chris Jones is looking to take over in right field.
After Roemer the Titans are counting on Ryan Jorgenson, who appeared in 20
games [one start] for the Titans in 2006 and posted a 1.48 ERA.
Michael Morrison, a freshman from Cypress High School and Jeff Kaplan, a
transfer from Irvine Valley College is looking to fill out the rotation.
Horton said that unlike in past years, there will not be a shutdown closer at
the end of games and this year, they will look to freshman Ryan Ackland
Esperanza High School and senior Bryan Harris to be cogs in the Titan bullpen.