Baseball in this county has become a kid's game, dominated by freshmen, sophomores and a strong junior class.
Virtually extinct is the talented senior leader who can hoist a team with playoff aspirations onto his shoulders. But there are a few programs that possess that rare commodity.
Here are a few stars from the Class of 2010 who will try to get their teams to the finals in their last go-round of spring tournaments.
Dunedin Baseball Tournament
Alex Norris, Dunedin: Two years ago, Norris made a name for himself when he came in as a relief pitcher in the Class 5A state championship. He got the Falcons out of a bases-loaded jam to help them win their first state title since 1964. Last season Norris took on a bigger role and was 6-2 while batting .425. Now, the Florida Gulf Coast signee is the only senior on a team that includes 14 juniors. His leadership will be key if Dunedin hopes to make it to the final of its tournament.
Other seniors to watch: Clearwater Central Catholic: Patrick Camporini, James Petika; Countryside: Danny Torres; East Lake: Steven Croyle, Zach Gordon, Brian Johnson, Taylor Lesch, Drew Posavec; Palm Harbor University: Maxwell Cameron, Andrew Goot; Pinellas Park: Cody Arnold, Kaleb Paulton; St. Petersburg: Kyle Chavez, Dakota McLean, Tyler Moll, Clarence Wilson; St. Petersburg Catholic: Connor Obrachta, Jake Foerster, Bobby Twitty
Osceola Spring Invitational
Sean O'Brien, Clearwater: Last season the Florida State signee made some noise by helping his team knock out Seminole to reach the final of the Steve Georgiadis tournament. He shined this summer at some showcase events and has played a key role for the Tornadoes in a tough district that includes Dunedin and Seminole.
Other seniors to watch: Clearwater: Kraig Richmond, Andre Ortega; Dixie Hollins: Nathan Chlysta; Northeast: Tim Deacon, Shawn Delmontagne, James Gray, Walter Lamerson, Jeramy Lopez, Noel Thomas; Osceola: Tyler Brown, Brock Jensen, Adam Lewis
Steve Georgiadis Memorial Tournament at Seminole
Tim Lamoureux, Seminole: He pitched in the biggest games last season as the Warhawks overcame the death of a teammate to reach the playoffs as district runnerup. The Warhawks have a deep pitching staff, and some underclassmen have come up big in close games. But Lamoureux still is the leader.
Other seniors to watch: Lakewood: Brian Replogle; Northside Christian: David Dresselhaus, Cam Eller, Harrison Ralph, Kyle Turner, Robbie Williams; Seminole: Steve Attaway, Spencer Heirman, Gabe Martello; Shorecrest: Tyler Larson
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