In 2006, the Kentucky baseball team claimed the school?s first Southeastern Conference Championship, winning a school-record 44 games and hosting the school?s first NCAA Regional.
That success was thanks in large part to several players who have since progressed into professional baseball, including first basemen Ryan Strieby, and fellow infielders John Shelby and Michael Bertram.
While it will not be easy to replace some of the greatest players in school history, Kentucky head coach John Cohen likes the talent and athleticism of the 2007 version of his diamond defenders.
The Wildcats return an anchor in shortstop Ryan Wilkes but will seek to replace several other faces. Wilkes looks to continue the impressive defensive play he displayed during the 2006 season and become a more consistent force on the offensive end.
?Ryan Wilkes could be as good as any shortstop in our league,? Cohen said. ?I think offensively he has really figured himself out as a hitter.?
The Harrison, Tenn. native had a solid fall, impressing his teammates with his increased prowess as a hitter after batting .265 his first two seasons.
At first base, UK welcomes junior college transfer Sawyer Carroll. The Tulsa, Okla., native looks to fill the void left by Strieby. Carroll, 6-foot-4, 200 lbs., brings an excellent work-ethic and a fluid swing to the order. Senior Matt McKinney also figures to be in the mix at first.
?When you lose a John Shelby, a Michael Bertram, and a Ryan Strieby you are obviously loosing some real power,? Cohen said. ?But at the same time, I think Sawyer Carroll is going to be a great offensive and defensive first baseman.?
A gamut of fresh faces will be seen at second base this season, including senior Mike Brown and transfer Brian Spear.
?Brian Spear, a transfer from Wichita State, is a guy who has experience at a very high level of college baseball and can help us immediately,? Cohen said. ?Mike Brown is a warrior, a tremendous leader and the players love him. He is our version of a David Eckstein type of guy, who just gets all he can out of his ability.?
At third base, Anthony Ottrando has emerged as a solid option at the position both offensively and defensively. The Ocala, Fla., native had an excellent summer, earning Florida Collegiate Summer League honors.
?Anthony Ottrando is a young man who had a great fall after a devastating injury,? Cohen said. ?Last year he had a horrible foot injury, breaking his ankle, but he has come back strong and I really expect him to contribute.?
Editor’s Note:
This is the first of a four-part series on the Wildcat baseball team leading up to the 2007 season opener on Friday, Feb. 16 at Furman in Greenville, S.C. During the week, UKathletics.com will also preview the Wildcat outfield, catchers and pitchers.
