Preseason Power 25 Countdown: No. 13 Lincoln-Way East

Losing the high-end talent of Kirschsieper and Ryan Ritter, as well as a handful of other starters, would cripple most programs. Luckily for Lincoln-Way East, they’re able to consistently reload and infuse their program with up-and-coming talent. The 2020 squad will look a whole lot different than the 26-win 2019 club, but that does not mean they will be any less talented. The aforementioned Stanwich has the ability to make an immediate impact at the varsity level, in all phases of the game. Looper could potentially be ready to become a lead arm on the staff, along with a host of others who will be fighting for the same role. Senior Cade Turner (Illinois-Springfield) has transitioned from catcher to pitcher and continues to make big strides on the mound. 3B/RHP Davey Fitzpatrick (2020; Lewis) has a physical right-handed bat, easy arm and mid-80s fastball. A trio of juniors who will compete for quality innings this spring are RHP/3B Anthony Panzella, LHP Danny Hiemer, and OF/RHP Joey Boland. 

Offensively, the Griffins should be deep up and down the lineup despite only returning two starters. One of those starters, C/INF Ryan McCoy (2020; Wabash Valley JC) is a dangerous left-handed bat who should slot in the middle of the order and be one of the top run-producers. Alongside McCoy will be fellow senior OF Cael Geijer. Geijer, still uncommitted, brings speed, a knack for the barrel, and sneaky pop from the right-side of the plate. With the injury of Nick Mergenthaler, senior Dan DeCero should start in left field, rounding out the outfield alongside Stanwich and Geijer. Senior TJ DeVries was in line to take over the shortstop duties from the graduated Ritter but will be moving to second base due to injury. DeVries is a steady defender who controls the barrel at the plate. DeVries injury opens the door for sophomore Randy Seymour to handle shortstop. Seymour has a long, projectable 6-foot-1, 145-pound frame, is a natural defender with fluid actions and is comfortable playing on the move. 

A couple of junior bats who will be competing for spots are 3B Max Polad, 1B Matthew Michaels as well as the aforementioned Panzella and Boland. Looper should also have a chance to swing the bat as well this spring.

BOTTOM LINE

The Griffins arguably look deeper, on paper, than they did last season – but they are inexperienced, leaving them early season questions to answer. By the time playoffs roll around, do not be surprised if they are peaking at the right time, playing like a club no one will want to square off against with the season on the line. Losing the likes of Kirschsieper and Ritter will dent any club but keep an eye on Coach Brauer’s squad when the real fun starts, in the postseason.