Stropolo to use “different strategy” in American Legion play compared to prep-season with Rebels

BY DAVID FOLSE II

Sports Editor

RESERVE-It’s spring training time.

No, the major leagues did not restart their season. American Legion play will be used as a “spring training” for the Riverside Rebels.

Sponsored by their extra inning club, the Rebels opened up American Legion play over the weekend, splitting a pair of games with the Hahnville-based Boutte Bombers. Riverside lost the first game on Friday, 4-2 and came back to win on Saturday, 7-6.

Collecting only three hits in the first game, the Rebels lost on Friday 4-2.

A comeback was needed on Saturday as the Rebels rallied late to defeat the Bombers 7-6. Wade Delaneuville led the Rebels with two hits and also knocked in a run.

Delaneuville was also the starting pitcher for the Rebels and was relieved by Cavin Richmond. Richmond gave way to ace Jordan Poirrier who picked up the win in relief.

Riverside Extra Innings Club Head Coach Steve Stropolo was happy with his team’s performance and was particularly pleased that he was able to play a number of players.

“We were able to play 11 guys,”

Stropolo said. “I used two different catchers. We had two guys pitch on Friday and three guys pitch on Saturday. Cavin Richmond and Wade Delaneuville are going to carry most of the load during the summer because they need to pitch and get some innings under their belts for next season.

While he hopes to win every game that his team takes part in, Stropolo said his main concern is getting a lot of playing time for a large amount of players so that they will be ready for the upcoming 2006 prep baseball season, thus making the summer a “spring training home” for the Rebels.

“Legion for us is to get some kids times at bat,” Stropolo said. “We want to take a look and see if they can play or not. We are going to win our fair share of games. Whether we get in the playoffs or not, I hope we do.

“But basically this summer is a spring training for us. It’s 20 games where I can pitch whoever I want without worrying about anything. I’m not worrying about a state championship. It would be great if we got to it, but I am just worried about trying to play as many kids as I can and find some positions that they can play in case during the year we have to have somebody step in, they at least have some experience and some times up to bat at the plate. So that is what we are going to use our games this summer in American Legion for.”