By Sean Duncan

No. 4 O?Fallon is one of the hottest teams in the state, having won its last 10 games. The Panthers reeled off four big wins last week over Southwestern Conference rival Edwardsville, Belleville West, Civic Memorial and Normal West. Thanks to his defensive prowess, timely hitting and leadership, senior catcher Austin Bossart is the main reason for O?Fallon?s blazing start.

?We have a lot of players with ability, but Austin has been that guy who has led us offensively and defensively,? said O?Fallon coach Jason Portz. ?What he does for us is provide defensive stability. He?s got such a strong arm and is such a presence behind the plate.  Teams don?t run on him very often and he?s so athletic that he controls the bunting game.?

The athletic 6-foot-2, 180-pound University of Pennsylvania recruit showed off his catching prowess last week, as he gunned down all four attempted base-stealers. At the plate, Bossart was equally impressive. He batted .500 for the week, going 6-for-12 with three doubles and six RBI, and showed off his athleticism by stealing five bases.

For the season, Bossart is hitting .486 with six doubles and 14 RBI. He has an on-base percentage of .586. Bossart, who has an 86-88 mph fastball on the mound, also serves as the team?s closer.

The Porsche Exchange salutes Bossart for his hard work and success.

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