Opening Day will feature a Yellow Jacket team (20-16, 13-11) coming off one of the most successful seasons in recent memory, including the third most wins in program history and first playoff berth in nine years - against Calvin College (16-25, 15-13), who finished fourth in the MIAA and earned a trip to their conference tournament. Tomorrow's game will also serve as the first of the season for the Knights.
In a recent HCAC press release, five Jackets were tabbed as conference Players to Watch; seniors Darin Waterman (P/DH), Pat Masopust (1B), Aaron Helland (OF), as well as the middle infield combo of junior Chris Donese and sophomore Ryan Kohlhofer. After losing over three quarters of its innings pitched from last year, Defiance will lean on returners; Waterman, JR Matt Goodpaster and SO Chris Douglas to lead a pitching staff that includes its fair share of new faces.
This weekend, DC will also play two against the Centre Colonels (2-4), coming off a 13-25 record in 2013. Centre will play host to both Defiance and Calvin - the Jackets are the only team of the three who will play four games on this swing.
For continued Opening Day and Opening Weekend coverage, follow the Diamond on Twitter for pre-game lineups as well as post-game scores and highlights. Also stay tuned to the DC Athletics twitter feed and website for game recaps and box scores!
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