FL Preseason Previews: First Academy, Leon, Gulf Coast, McKeel Academy
January 8, 2020
Leading up to the start of the high school season, we will count down the Top 25 preseason teams every day as part of our comprehensive season coverage. Prior to that, we will break down some other teams across the state and what to watch for.
TEAM: THE FIRST ACADEMY
2019 Record: 22-9
FHSAA Class: 3A
Head Coach: Scott Grove
Playoff Run: Regional Championship
Returning Starters: 12
OUTLOOK
Young and extremely talented that knows how to win. Headlined with underclassmen such as Riley Parker (UCF), Ben Barrett (FSU), and Dallas Dale (Alabama), this team will look to continue to build on their success from last year.
TEAM: LEON
2019 Record: 15-11
FHSAA Class: 8A
Head Coach: Robbie Zimmerman
Playoff Run: N/A
Returning Starters: 8
OUTLOOK
With 3 returning solid pitchers Paxton Tomaini, Will Newell, and Garrett Green, this year's squad should be able to compete with most if we can find some offense and play some solid defense.
TEAM: GULF COAST
2019 Record: 20-10
FHSAA Class: 6A
Head Coach: Peter Garcia
Playoff Run: Regional Semifinals
Returning Starters: 7
OUTLOOK
Good mix of underclassmen and upperclassmen. Led by returning starters Just Mattia and Jake Thorne, Gulf Coast should be able to compete with the best of their competition.
TEAM: MCKEEL ACADEMY
2019 Record: 21-7
FHSAA Class: 4A
Head Coach: Ron Nipper
Playoff Run: Regional Semifinals
Returning Starters: 10
OUTLOOK
McKeel expects to lean on a deep pitching staff to keep games within striking distance. Juniors Sawyer Hawks (Air Force), Blake Barquin, and Breton Cusic will lead the way on the mound, with senior side-armer Cole Brewer cleaning things up in relief. The offense will be led by those same juniors as well as junior catcher Andrew Sundean, a UCF commit. Freshmen Branson Ashley (C/1B) and Wyatt Jenkins (2B) should be contributors right away.