Team Preview: Corning HS

As we prepare for our 2014 high school season coverage, we are going to preview several teams throughout the state.

Team: Corning HS, NY
Class: AA
Head Coach: John Knapp
Assistant Coach: Pete Graham
2013 Record: 8-9
PBR NY Pre-Season Rankings: Dark Horse – Class AA

2014 Outlook:
With 14 returners and 11 of them being seniors, the Corning Hawks have their sights set on making a run for the section title. Boasting a full return of the entire offense and pitching staff, the Hawks are battle-tested and have the experience to have a legitimate shot of winning significant games. Senior CF Zach Sullivan (Stony Brook) is one of the state's top draft prospects and leads the offense with his five-tool set. Sullivan can help them with his glove, bat or speed on any given day. Senior LHP Nate Grant (St. Bonaventure) is as good as they come on the mound in Section IV and he fits that mold of a confident, crafty ace. 3B/1B/P Derek Ayers returns as a dual threat for the Hawks, being a run-producing corner infielder and a solid, strong-armed pitcher. The Hawks could sneak up on some of the bigger names and should compete with any team in Section IV.

“It’s all about pitching and defense," Graham said. "We have the players to make a run, we just need to put it all together day in and day out. We even have some very strong arms down on JV that could help if we need them.”