Undermanned

Clippers 

embark on 

baseball 

season

By Ron P. Coderre

The Putnam High School baseball team, which seems to have problems recruiting players each spring, embarks on another season in April.  Once a baseball powerhouse the Clippers, though possessing talent appear short on numbers again this year. 

Last season Putnam finished the season under. 500 at 9-11.  The team fared well in the Constitution State Conference – East with a 7-3 record.  In addition to losing some veterans to graduation, Putnam lost three key would-be returners when two transferred to Woodstock Academy and one player opted to attend Holy Name High School in Worcester.  With a paucity of players each season the loss of the trio contributed to the lack of numbers this season.

Despite the lack of experience the Clippers will rely on four returnees who have plenty of action under their belts.  Senior Nicholas Foucault will anchor the Putnam staff.  Foucault has seen mound action in all four of his seasons in Putnam.  In addition, he’s seen plenty of pitching action for the TriTown American legion Baseball program.  When not on the mound, Foucault will anchor the infield at shortstop.  

Foucault’s tosses will be handled by another senior Kyle Loomis. When not donning the mask and pads, Loomis will also see action on the hill as well as filling in where needed.  Sophomore Scott Davagian, who had a good freshman year, will also get some rotations on the mound when not playing third base.

Anchoring the outfield in center field is junior Zack Cutler.  The speedy fly chaser can cover plenty of territory in the outfield.  A better-than-adequate hitter, Cutler’s speed will also be an asset on the base paths.  Cutler, who also plays for TriTown American Legion, will also see duty as a pitcher.

Two freshmen, Derek Bichard and Cole Davagian are expected to step in despite their youth.  Also scheduled to see plenty of action are newcomers junior Adam Saucier and sophomore Mitchell Barylski.  They will see action wherever and whenever necessary.

The schedule will include a full complement of games with CSC –East teams as well as a sprinkling of games with teams from the Eastern Connecticut Conference Small Division.   

The Clippers brain trust will be led by sixth year head coach Chris Hehir.  He’ll be assisted by John Foucault.

The lack of numbers and the fact that many players will necessarily have to play a variety of positions will hamper team consistency.  Players such as Foucault, Cutler, Loomis and Davagian should provide some stability and confidence for the younger members of the team.

 

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