Feb. 20, 2009
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Outfield
There were three players who played and started every single game last season. Of those players, two were outfielders. Every game, Vanderbilt took the field it could count on centerfielder David Macias and rightfielder Dominic de la Osa being in the lineup.
Head Coach Tim Corbin will try to fill their void by shifting senior Jonathan White to left field and sophomore Steven Liddle to right field. Last season, Liddle and White battled each other for playing time in left field. Likely earning the start in center this year will be sophomore Alex Hilliard, who had just three at bats last season.
White started 30 games last season, hitting .286 and ranking second on the team with 11 stolen bases. When not playing in left field, White was the team’s primary designated hitter at the end of last season. His production on the field will be key to Vanderbilt’s success, but what may be even more important is the leadership he brings to the locker room as a fifth-year senior.
“Jonathan (White) is a rare case of a player who possesses legitimate speed and power,” Corbin said. “He can be an offensive threat and really help our team. His experience and attitude should be a key factor as well.”
Liddle was one of the team’s most pleasant surprises last season. The Franklin, Tenn., product hit .310 and totaled 28 RBI in 158 at bats. His .376 on-base percentage is also the highest among any returning player with at least 100 bats last season.
“Steve (Liddle) really came on at the end of last year,” Corbin said. “He is a good all-around baseball player who always plays hard. He has very good fundamental skills in the outfield and handles the bat very well.”
Hilliard redshirted his first year in Nashville and then saw limited action last year as guys like Dominic de la Osa and David Macias never left the lineup. A strong showing in the summer, followed by a good fall has provided Hilliard the opportunity to start the season in center.
Designated Hitter
Vanderbilt used a platoon of players at designated hitter last season and this year will likely be no different. The biggest difference at the position this season will be the experience level Corbin has to select from.
After having a bench full of experienced players to fill the spot in recent seasons, this year’s team will turn to young players in 2009.
Among those battling for time at the position will be sophomores Richie Goodenow and Aaron Westlake and sophomore transfer Dylan Pratt. Catcher Curt Casali will also see time at the position when he is not behind the plate.
Goodenow has been primarily used as a pitcher out of the bullpen, but has impressed Corbin with his offensive development in the fall and sees Goodenow as a two-way player for the Commodores.
“Richie (Goodenow) has turned the corner as a player,” Corbin said. “He had a very good fall as a pitcher and also as a hitter.”
Westlake was starting to find a role in the lineup last season, but a shoulder injury caused him to miss the last two months of the year.