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By Dylan Hefflinger and PBR Staff
Editor in Chief/NW Scout

With the 2016 spring season right around the corner, PBR Ohio is eagerly anticipating bringing the Buckeye state the best high school coverage throughout the entire state.

Starting February 1st, we began releasing team previews for teams across the state, leading into the Preseason All-State Teams as well as the Preseason State Rankings.

To view the full list of 2016 Team Previews that we have already completed, please click here.

If you are a coach and haven't filled out your 2016 Team Preview, click here.

Interested in attending a PBR Ohio event? Check out our schedule by clicking here.

2016 Spring Team Preview: Rootstown Rovers

Team Name: Rootstown Rovers
Head Coach: Mark Knopick
Division: III
2015 Record: 13-13
Conference Record: Portage Trail, 4-8
Returning Starters/Pitchers: 7/2

2016 Team Strengths:

• Three capable starting pitchers
• Four proven hitters at varsity level
• Defense should be solid once catching job is solidified

2016 Team Weaknesses:

• Outfield is fairly open with only one returning starter

Coach Outlook: "We have a number of starters returning with a total of 24 juniors/seniors and a total of 40 out for the program. Two starting pitchers back along with newcomer from Florida that should add strength to the staff. Four returners that batted over .325 last year. Must fill hole at catcher and shortstop both lost to graduation."

PBR Outlook: Coach Knopick and the Rovers have an experienced group with 24 juniors/seniors out for the team. With two of their top arms back and a transfer in from Florida, the Rovers could be a team to watch in Division 3 in 2016.

Top Returning Players:

• Brad Trescott, 2B, .377 avg, two-year starter
• Sam Demars, 3B, .376 avg, two-year starter
• Dominic Testa, P, 4-5 record
• Zachary Eackelbary, P, 3-1 record
• Andrew Miller, P/SS, 3-2 record
• Dan Simons, P, 8-1 record in Florida, two-year starter
• Jacob Klicman, 1B, SR

 

A Look Back At 2015 Preseason Articles:

To view the 2015 Team Previews, click here.
To view the 2015 Preseason All-State Teams, click below.

• Division I
• Division II
• Division III
• Division IV

To view the 2015 Preseason State Rankings, click below.

• Division I
• Division II
• Division III
• Division IV