Preseason Preview: North Laurel HS
March 12, 2013
By Chris Fuller
Kentucky Scouting Director
The North Laurel Jaguars completed their 2012 season with a 28-7 record under head coach Darren McWhorter, winning the 49th District Championship. In the 13th Region Tournament, North Laurel won their first round matchup and advanced to the semi-finals before losing to Middlesboro.
The Jaguars return 4 starters and 4 pitchers from their 2012 squad, with some very talented players slated to take the field this spring. Leading the way is University of Kentucky signee Marcus Carson. Carson, a CF/LHP who is ranked No. 37 in the class of 2013, hit .419 with 28 stolen bases while also compiling a 6-1 record on the mound for the Jaguars last season.
Sophomore RHP/OF Zach Hurley will be relied on heavily on the mound, as well as in the outfield. The 5-foot-11, 165-pound, athletic Hurley is ranked No.5 in the class of 2015 player rankings after an impressive performance at the Pre-Season All State Showcase.
Also expected to make significant contributions for the Jaguars are junior RHP/IF/OF Jake Mink, sophomore catcher Ethan Maxey (ranked No.15 in the class of 2015), junior MIF Cole Lewis, and junior OF/RHP Austin Thompson.
Look for North Laurel to compete well in a tough 13th Region and be one of the teams that has a chance to advance to the State Tournament in Lexington. The Jaguars open their season today with a 5:30 PM home contest against Rockcastle County.