Baseball: Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex rankings

There's a new-found sense of excitement surrounding Newton's baseball program that's been absent far too long.

Off to their best start in 12 years, the Braves (6-0) enter the week sitting atop the Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference Freedom Division standings. Coach John Selitto's team punctuated last week's action with Thursday's 10-4 win over Jefferson, jumping out to a 9-0 lead in the top of the first.

It was Newton's first win over its former Sussex County Interscholastic League rival since 2009, when it thwarted the Falcons' bid for the final SCIL title with a 4-2 win in 12 innings on the same field at Jefferson. It also snapped a three-game skid against Jefferson, which beat Newton, 17-5, last season.

This year's Newton club isn't yet drawing comparisons to the 2001 team, which won its first 19 games en route to a 25-3 mark and an appearance in the Group 2 final, and featured such studs as catcher/pitcher Josh Noviskey (drafted by the Cleveland Indians) and ace lefty Charlie Munroe. The 8-1 loss to Audubon in that title game was the last for veteran coach Bob Melillo, whose teams compiled an overall mark of 353-207-2.

But the current Braves feature a balanced lineup, anchored by center fielder and No. 3 hitter Ben Cramer, along with cleanup man Anthony Morro, the starting first baseman. Leadoff batter Justin Smith is always a threat to steal on the bases.

"We're off to a great start and it feels great," said Cramer, one of five underclassmen in the starting lineup.

Pitching-wise, sophomore lefty Nick Grant and senior right-hander Chris Branham are off to good starts, along with righty Casey Thomas (2-0). Grant opened some eyes with his no-hitter against North Warren on Wednesday, striking out seven and allowing one walk. It was the Braves' first no-no since Munroe tossed a five-inning perfect game against Lenape Valley in 10-0 win on May 17, 2000.

"Pitching has been great for us," said Cramer, following his two-hit, three RBI day against Jefferson. "We're putting up runs and not giving up too many."

However, Selitto cautions that his team can not overlook anyone, especially this week in games against winless Kittatinny and Hopatcong. Over the previous two seasons, the Braves won a total of nine games. In fact, only the 2009 team (12-14) has reached double digits in victories since the program's last winning campaign in '02.

"This group has been together on the varsity for three years, but they're still learning how to win," Selitto said. "We targeted this year. The kids have done a nice job."

Now onto this week's rankings:

1. North Hunterdon (4-1) – Lions still on top following road wins over Montgomery (8-0) on Tuesday and Hillsborough (15-2) on Thursday in two big Skyland Conference Delaware Division matchups. It's no secret as to the Hunterdon County school's success. Coach Mike Kane's team is scoring runs at an alarming rate -- 57 in five games for an average of just over 11 per contest -- and is getting quality starting pitching. Senior Justin Trinity picked up his second win against Hillsborough, while senior second baseman Robbie Young went 3-for-4 with a triple and three RBIs against Montgomery.

Up next: at Warren Hills on Monday; Watchung Hills at home on Tuesday; at Immaculata on Thursday.

2. Sparta (4-1-1) – Spartans enter the week fresh off their big 5-3 win over crosstown rival Pope John last Wednesday, as sophomore Dillon Mendel earned his second win with a five-hitter, while senior first baseman Sean Dilger belted his first home run. The victory snapped Sparta's four-game skid in the series and was its first over the Lions since May 19, 2009 (4-3 in 10 innings). In fact, the Spartans won three meetings against their rivals that year, including a 6-3 win in eight innings in the former Sussex County Tournament. Ace Kevin Foulds (2-0) struck out nine in a 4-2 win over Goshen (N.Y.) on Saturday.

Up next: Kinnelon at home on Monday; at Montville on Tuesday; Morris Knolls at home on Thursday; High Point at home on Friday; Warwick (N.Y.) at home on Saturday.

3. Pope John (6-3) – Coach Vin Bello's Lions went 2-1 last week, including an 8-7 win over nemesis Montville in an NJAC American Division clash on the turf in Sparta. Junior second baseman Axel D'Addario continued his torrid pace at the plate, going 2-for-3 with an RBI, while Dan Cunico finished 2-for-3 with two RBIs in the win. In his last six games, D'Addario has seven RBIs with a triple and a homer. D'Addario was 2-for-4 with an RBI in a loss to crosstown rival Sparta. Senior pitcher Ken Mott logged his first win on Friday in the team's 3-1 win over Vernon. The Lions closed the week with a nice 7-4 win at Bergen Catholic.

Up next: at Morris Knolls on Tuesday; Mount Olive at home on Thursday; Moorestown at Millburn Tournament on Saturday.

4. Newton (6-0) – Braves keep merrily rolling along, picking up three more wins this past week. Coach John Selitto's club outscored its opponents, 24-6, in the process, including Thursday's 10-4 win over Jefferson in which Newton scored nine runs in the top of the first inning. The Braves also beat No. 8 Lenape Valley, 10-2, and No. 7 North Warren, 4-0, in their other NJAC Freedom Division showdowns. Catcher Charlie Grotyohann continues to rake, with a double and an RBI against North Warren and an RBI in the win over Jefferson.

Up next: at Kittatinny on Tuesday; Hopatcong at home on Thursday; Whippany Park at home on Saturday.

5. Hunterdon Central (2-5) – Red Devils are off to one of their worst starts in recent memory, dropping their fourth straight with Saturday's 10-1 loss at home. Coach Mike Raymond's team hasn't won since a 12-1 drubbing of Nottingham on April 6. Life in the Delaware Division is tough, as Central dropped tough ones to Immaculata (11-8) and Montgomery (7-6) this past week. Sensational senior second baseman Jeremy Ake homered in the loss to 'Lata. He's hitting .300 with two homers and team-leading nine RBIs entering the week. Sophomore outfielder Henry Hawkins leads the team with a .400 average. Central's pitchers have allowed 35 runs in the last four games, and 51 (37 earned) overall this season.

Up next: at Phillipsburg on Tuesday; at Hillsborough on Thursday; Red Devil Classic at home on Saturday.

6. Wallkill Valley (3-1) – Rangers went 2-0 last week, including a 5-0 win over Hopatcong last Monday in an NJAC Freedom Division showdown at Harold Sisco Field. Junior outfielder Brandon Grabkowski went 3-for-3 with a pair of doubles and three RBIs. He leads the team with a .538 average (7-for-13). Right-hander Casey Jervis (1-0), who owns a 2.10 ERA, picked up the win with nine strikeouts. Senior Rob Stecher improved to 2-0 on the mound in Wallkill's 5-3 win over Hackettstown on Wednesday. He has seven K's in 12 innings this season.

Up next: at High Point on Monday; at Jefferson on Tuesday; at North Warren on Thursday; Pequannock at home on Saturday.

7. North Warren (4-2) – Coach Jim Haupt's Patriots went 2-1 this past week -- including a 2-1 win over Hackettstown on Thursday in a key NJAC Freedom Division showdown in Blairstown. Senior outfielder Mike Clothier went 2-for-3 with an RBI, while sophomore pitcher Lance Kernoschak improved to 2-0. Senior Hunter Stevens ran his record to 2-0 with six K's in the team's 6-5 win over Kittatinny last Monday.

Up next: at Blair Academy on Monday; at Hopatcong on Tuesday; Wallkill Valley at home on Thursday.

8. Lenape Valley (3-2) – Patriots went 1-1 this past week, falling, 10-2, to No. 4 Newton on Monday before rebounding with Wednesday's 8-0 victory over rival Hopatcong for their second shutout this season. Senior Ken Costa went 2-for-3, while ace right-hander Drew Burke (1-1), who blanked Kittatinny on Opening Day, took his first loss against Newton. Coach Bob Klinck's team gears for a big week in the wild NJAC Freedom Division.

Up next: Morristown-Beard at home on Monday; Hackettstown at home on Tuesday; Jefferson at home on Thursday; Sussex Tech at home on Friday.

9. Delaware Valley (3-4) – Terriers enter the rankings for the first time coming off back-to-back wins over Franklin on Tuesday and (10-4) Warren Hills on Thursday (7-3) in a pair of Raritan Division showdowns. Coach Marty White's club received solid pitching efforts from Chris Fiaschetti (four K's against Franklin) and Logan Brown (four K's vs. Warren Hills). Senior first baseman Scott Skripko went a combined 5-for-8 with five RBIs in the two wins. He also got the final three outs on the mound against the Blue Streaks.

Up next: Somerville at home on Tuesday; at Voorhees on Thursday; South Hunterdon at home on Saturday.

10. Hackettstown (3-3) – Tigers creep into the rankings, thanks largely to a big 1-0 win at Jefferson in an NJAC Freedom Division clash last Monday. Coach Gary Poyer's team also dropped a couple of close decisions to Wallkill Valley (5-3 on Wednesday) and North Warren (2-1 on Thursday). Senior Owen Gavin (2-0) got the win on the mound against Jefferson.

Up next: at Belvidere on Monday; at Lenape Valley on Tuesday; Kittatinny at home on Thursday; Morris Catholic at home on Friday.

On the bubble: Phillipsburg (2-7), Vernon (2-4), Warren Hills (1-5), Voorhees (1-4).

Baseball: Nine-run frame fuels unbeaten Newton

It's been a long time coming for Newton's baseball program, which hasn't produced a winning season since 2002. But, at 6-0, the Braves are looking to end that drought in a big way.

Coach John Selitto's team certainly wasted little time on Thursday in its quest to remain unbeaten -- sending 13 batters to the plate in a nine-run explosion that propelled the Braves to a 10-4 win over host Jefferson in a key Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference Freedom Division clash.

Newton (6-0, 5-0 division), ranked sixth in the Open Mike area, holds a 1 1/2-game lead over Wallkill Valley in the Freedom standings, with Jefferson (5-2, 3-2) falling two games back with the loss. The rest of the division plays Friday, as Wallkill Valley can pick up a half-game with a win over Lenape Valley at Sisco Field.

"We're off to a great start, and hopefully we can keep the run going," said talented junior center fielder Ben Cramer, who was 2-for-4, including a bases-clearing double in the Braves' huge first inning. "It feels great to be on top of the conference."

Newton tagged Jefferson starter Dom Alheidt (2-1) for seven runs on two hits, chasing him after just two-thirds of an inning. Reliever Joey Nadler gave up two runs on three hits in the first, but allowed just one more run in his 5 1/3 innings of relief. The Braves managed just five baserunners from the second inning on, as Nadler retired 10 in a row until issuing a two-out walk to Ryan Vasquez in the seventh.

"The kid [Nadler] did a nice job and gutted it out for them," Selitto said. "He kept them in the game.

Cramer, who batted .366 as a sophomore, was one of four Newton hitters to bat twice in the first. After striking out, Cramer came up again with the bases loaded and hammered a double to the base of the center-field fence -- one of his two doubles that nearly left the yard. The Braves loaded the bases six times in the first, chasing Alheidt after catcher Charlie Grotyohann, the No. 9 hitter, drew a walk for the inning's seventh run.

The opening frame started harmlessly enough for Alheidt, who after allowing a leadoff single to Justin Smith, got Joe Selitto to pop up to the catcher before fanning Cramer. But Alheidt walked two and hit two before issuing an RBI single to Jon Bernotas. Smith delivered his second single of the inning to plate a run and Selitto brought in another with a single to keep 'em loaded for Cramer.

With a 9-0 lead, Newton starter Casey Thomas retired six of the first eight batters before encountering trouble in the third. Cleanup hitter Kevin Silverstein got Jefferson on the board with a two-out single that scored Connor Labita, who led off with a single to right.

Newton got the run back in the fourth, as Cramer doubled deep to left and came around to score on Anthony Morro's single. With a 10-1 lead, it looked as if the Braves were on their way to invoking the mercy rule.

But the Falcons answered with three runs in their half of the fourth, as Jeremy Decotiis belted his second double to make it, 10-2. Catcher Matt Ajaj followed with a two-run bloop single to center.

"We respect them offensively and they kept swinging the bats," Selitto said. "Down 9-0 is a long way to go."

Thomas departed after the fourth in line for his third win in as many starts, leaving junior Luke Leifken to close it out in relief. The right-hander allowed a walk and struck out two in the fifth, but had to work out of bases-loaded jams in the sixth and seventh as Jefferson stranded a total of 11 runners on the day.

"We didn't think Casey had his good stuff today," Selitto said. "Leifken did a nice job. He's a first baseman and would start for a lot of other teams. We beat a quality team."

Newton has little time to relax. In addition to Freedom matchups against winless Kittatinny (Tuesday) and Hopatcong (Thursday), the Braves will host No. 4 Sparta next Friday in a big county showdown at Memory Park.

"We're not good enough to overlook anybody, and we're playing teams starving for wins," Selitto said. "Our guys are still learning, we didn't win too many games the last two years (nine total). This group has been together three years on the varsity and we started six sophomores two years ago. We targeted this year. Last year we thought we'd make a big jump, but we couldn't dig ourselves out [of a 2-5 hole start in a 6-17 season]."

NEWTON (ab-r-h-rbi) -- Smith lf 4-2-2-1, Selitto 2b 4-1-1-1, Cramer cf 4-1-2-3, Morro 1b 4-1-1-1, Branham 3b 3-1-1-0, Grant dh/Thomas p/Leifken p 3-1-0-1, Vasquez rf 2-1-0-1, Bernotas ss 4-1-1-1, Grotyohann c 2-0-0-1, Maker cr 0-1-0-0. Totals: 29-10-8-10.

JEFFERSON (ab-r-h-rbi) -- Decotiis cf 4-1-2-1, Ajaj c 4-0-2-2, Thompson ss 4-0-0-0, Silverstein rf 3-0-1-1, Wiegman 1b 3-0-0-0, Zarzecki ph 1-0-0-0, Muccia lf 2-0-0-0, Stallworth ph 1-0-1-0, Nadler 3b-p 4-0-1-0, Willard dh/Alheidt p 2-1-0-0, Montone 3b 2-0-2-0, Labita 2b 3-2-2-0. Totals: 33-4-11-4.

E -- Montone. LOB -- Newton 4, Jefferson 12. 2B -- Cramer 2; Decotiis 2. SB -- Smith.

Thomas, Leifken (5) and Grotyohann. Alheidt, Nadler (1), Sole (6) and Ajaj. W -- Thomas (3-0). L -- Alheidt (2-1). SO-BB -- Thomas 2-1, Leifken 3-2; Alheidt 1-3, Nadler 2-0, Sole 2-1. HBP -- Branham (by Alheidt), Vasquez (by Alheidt).

Baseball: Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex rankings

The first set of our Open Mike area rankings are usually the toughest.

The first four teams are pretty set, not necessarily in this order, but from five on, it's completely wide open at this point. Phillipsburg wasn't even a thought for consideration after dropping its first four games, but Saturday's 13-7 win over Voorhees, which beat Delaware Valley, got the Stateliners in at the bottom.

This could be a very fluid situation this year as no team seems head-and-shoulders above the pack right now. But it's early folks, so stay tuned.

Among the games to watch this week will be No. 3 Pope John at No. 4 Sparta in the annual crosstown battle. Pope John has won four in a row in the series, including wins of 8-4 and 5-4 last year. Sparta hasn't won since its three victories in 2009, including a 6-3 victory in the now defunct Sussex County Tournament semifinals.

1. North Hunterdon (2-1) – Lions roared out of the gate with wins over Steinert (15-4) and Hunterdon Central (12-6) after a tough opening day loss to Bridgewater-Raritan (8-7). Senior outfielder C.J. Rasile went 3-for-5 with three RBIs and fellow outfielder Andrew Gianos had two hits and two RBIs in the win over Central, North’s six in the last nine meetings between the Hunterdon County schools. Coach Mike Kane's squad has two big Skyland Conference Delaware Division matchups to open this week.

Up next: at Montgomery on Tuesday; at Hillsborough on Thursday; Ridge at home on Friday; at Edison on Saturday.

2. Hunterdon Central (2-1) – Red Devils posted wins over Nottingham (12-1) and Watchung Hills (5-3) around the loss to North Hunterdon on Thursday. Senior second baseman and Delaware recruit Jeremy Ake belted a walk-off grand slam against Watchung. Billy Maier was the winning pitcher, allowing five hits and logging six strikeouts in seven frames. Ake had two RBIs in the loss to North Hunterdon. Big week on tap for coach Mike Raymond’s club, which earned a three-way share of last year's conference title, with two huge Delaware Division clashes.

Up next: Hun at home on Monday; at Immaculata on Tuesday; at Montgomery on Thursday; Randolph at home on Saturday.

3. Pope John (3-2) – Lions opened the season with a thrilling 7-6 win in eight innings over Roxbury before a 4-2 victory over High Point in an NJAC American Division showdown. Coach Vin Bello’s team also earned a 7-2 independent win over Demarest. In between, Pope John dropped a 3-1 decision to Morris Hills in an American Division meeting. Rob Sanders delivered a walk-off hit against Roxbury, which led, 4-0, through five innings. Axel D’Addario earned the win in relief, and also homered in the win over Demarest. Sophomore Ethan Collins tossed a three-hitter with six K's against High Point.

Up next: Montville at home on Monday; at Sparta on Wednesday; Vernon at home on Friday; at Bergen Catholic on Saturday.

4. Sparta (2-1) – Spartans opened with wins over Mount Olive (3-1) and Vernon (9-3) before a 7-3 non-league loss to Chatham on Saturday. Kevin Foulds fired a three-hitter with six strikeouts against Mount Olive, while Matt Chemis went 2-for-2 with two RBIs. Thomas Ruddy also had an RBI single. Austin Unglaub and Jon-Karl Widuch homered against Vernon, while Dylan Mendel struck out five in earning his first varsity win on the hill.

Up next: Morris Hills at home on Monday; Pope John at home on Wednesday; High Point at home on Friday; at Goshen (N.Y.) on Saturday.

5. Warren Hills (1-2) – Blue Streaks rebounded from an 11-8 loss to Somerville in their opener with an impressive 7-1 win over Voorhees in a Skyland Conference Raritan Division clash. Coach Mike Quinto’s team closed the week with a 13-2 road loss to Montgomery. Winning pitcher Nathaniel Capone held Voorhees to just five hits, while Shea Kohler (2-for-3, double, RBI) was among five Streaks with multiple hits. Big area clash with Delaware Valley, coached by Warren Hills alum Marty White, at Joseph Steinhardt Field this week.

Up next: Hillsborough at home on Monday; Ridge at home on Tuesday; Delaware Valley at home on Thursday.

6. Newton (3-0) – Braves are off to one of their best starts in recent years. Coach John Selitto’s club, coming off a six-win season in 2012, opened with a big 7-5 win in eight innings against nemesis Wallkill Valley in a key NJAC Freedom Division showdown and improved to 2-0 in the division with Friday’s 11-6 win over Hackettstown. On Saturday, Casey Thomas tossed a two-hitter and Anthony Morro drove in a pair of runs in a 5-0 independent win over Dover. Justin Smith plated the go-ahead run with a safety squeeze in the win over Wallkill, which snapped Newton’s five-game skid in the series.

Up next: Lenape Valley at home on Monday; North Warren at home on Wednesday; Jefferson at home on Thursday; at Vernon on Saturday.

7. Wallkill Valley (1-1) – After a tough 7-5 loss in eight innings to Newton in their opener, the Rangers rebounded with a 2-1 win over Kittatinny in another NJAC Freedom Division contest. Casey Jervis went 3-for-4 with three RBIs in the loss to Newton, while Rob Stecher struck out five and walked one in the complete-game win over the Cougars. Rich Stecher scored the decisive run on Nick McWilliams’ squeeze bunt in the fifth inning.

Up next: Hopatcong at home on Monday; at Hackettstown on Wednesday; Lenape Valley at home on Friday; at New Egypt (doubleheader) on Saturday.

8. North Warren (2-1) – Patriots started off on the wrong foot with a 7-0 loss to Jefferson, but bounced back in a big way with a 7-4 win over Lenape Valley for the Warren County school’s first win in the NJAC Freedom Division. Dave Wilbur went 3-for-3 with two doubles, while winning pitcher Hunter Stevens logged eight strikeouts. Nick Meyer also homered in the win. Coach Jim Haupt’s team closed the week with a 7-4 win over Hanover Park.

Up next: Kittatinny at home on Monday; at Newton on Wednesday; Hackettstown at home on Friday; Whippany Park at home on Saturday.

9. Lenape Valley (2-1) – Patriots opened some eyes with a 4-0 win over Kittatinny in their opener, before a 7-4 loss to North Warren in its second NJAC Freedom Division tilt last week. Coach Bob Klinck’s team closed the week with a 3-1 non-league win over Boonton on Saturday. Drew Burke was the winning pitcher against Kittatinny, while Mike Deerfield tossed a two-hitter with seven K’s against Boonton.

Up next: at Newton on Monday; Hopatcong at home on Wednesday; at Wallkill Valley on Friday; at Delaware Valley on Saturday.

10. Phillipsburg (1-4) – Stateliners closed a very tough week with Saturday’s 13-7 win over Voorhees in a Skyland Conference interdivisional showdown at the Phillipsburg Athletic Complex. Alex Martin went 2-for-4 with three RBIs, including an inside-the-park home run. Bryan Gardner added two RBIs for the ‘Liners, who were outscored, 43-3, in its losses. Coach Dave Hinkle’s team lost, 18-0, to Ridge in the opener and 10-0 to Montgomery.

Up next: at Watchung Hills on Tuesday; at Immaculata on Thursday; Pius X (Pa.) at Phillipsburg on Friday; Stroudsburg (Pa.) at Phillipsburg on Saturday.

On the bubble: Hackettstown (2-1); Delaware Valley (1-4), Voorhees (1-2).

Baseball: NJAC Freedom race off to wild early start

As expected, the Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference Freedom Division is as wide open as can be just two games into a very young season.

Jefferson and Newton reside in first place at 2-0 in divisional play, while surprisingly, Kittatinny is 0-2 and at the bottom of the standings.

Jefferson figured to be in a bit of a rebuilding mode with the loss of 14 seniors -- and all of its innings on the mound from last year's team that won 22 games and the American Division title. Seems like Falcons coach Jason Kalish may have been sandbagging on this year's club, which improved to 4-0 with Friday's 8-7 win over Pequannock.

Newton was expected to challenge for the top spot, as coach John Selitto was especially high on the Braves in the preseason. They started off with a rather large 7-5 win in eight innings on Tuesday over Wallkill Valley, which had won five straight and eight of the previous nine meetings in the series. Justin Smith plated the go-ahead run with a safety squeeze in the top of the eighth.

Newton's previous win over Wallkill was 5-4 on April 14, 2010. The Braves closed out league play this week with Friday's 11-6 win over Hackettstown, which sits at 1-1, along with Lenape Valley, North Warren and Wallkill Valley. Hopatcong also is 0-2 with Kittatinny.

North Warren opened with a 7-0 loss to Jefferson, before evening its division slate with Friday's 7-4 win over Lenape Valley -- the Warren County school's first NJAC win since coming over from the Skyland Conference this season.

Skyland scene

Delaware Valley (1-2) nearly pulled off a stunner on Thursday in a tough 3-2 loss to Ridge. The Terriers led, 2-1, heading into the top of the seventh, but the Red Devils scored twice to take the lead and avoid the upset.

Coach Marty White's Terriers opened the week with a 6-0 independent win over Hopatcong, before a 5-3 loss to Voorhees in a Raritan Division clash played in frigid temperatures in Alexandria Township on Tuesday.

Phillipsburg (0-4) is off to the toughest of starts -- getting outscored, 43-3, in its four losses. The Stateliners dropped an 18-0 decision to Ridge on Monday before a 10-0 loss to Montgomery the following day. Coach Dave Hinkle's team was competitive in a 4-2 loss to Wilson (Pa.) on Wednesday.

Warren Hills (1-2) rebounded from an 11-8 loss to Somerville in its opener on Tuesday to earn a 7-1 win over Voorhees in another Raritan Division matchup on Thursday. Winning pitcher Nathaniel Capone held the Vikings to just five hits, while Shea Kohler (2-for-3, double, RBI) was among five Blue Streaks with multiple hits. Coach Mike Quinto's club, which lost 13-2 to Montgomery on Friday, has a big local showdown at home with Delaware Valley on Thursday, April 11.

North Hunterdon opened some eyes with a 12-6 win over Hunterdon Central on Thursday -- the Lions' fifth win in the last seven meetings with the Red Devils. The teams split their Delaware Division contests the previous two seasons, while North Hunterdon swept the season set in 2010.

Round trippers

Sussex Tech is off to a 2-1 start under first-year coach Brad Szatkiewicz, who won his debut, 13-3, against Morris Tech on Monday. Chris Manzi belted a homer and had five RBIs, while winning pitcher Chris McNulty fanned seven. The Mustangs lost 8-2 to 13th Street Tech on Wednesday, but bounced back with Friday's 6-1 win over Notre Dame.

Pope John (2-1) continued its hold on High Point with Tuesday's 4-2 victory in Sparta. Winning pitcher Ethan Collins, one of the top arms in Northwest Jersey, tossed a three-hitter with six strikeouts. The Lions have won seven in a row against the Wildcats (0-2), whose last win in the series was, 5-4, on April 27, 2009. 

Lenape Valley's 4-0 win over Kittatinny was a good way to open the NJAC Freedom slate for coach Bob Klinck's Patriots (2-1), who dropped both meetings against the Cougars in 2012. Coach Brian Bosworth's Cougars are struggling at the plate, scoring one run in their two losses.

Baseball: Hunterdon-Warren preview capsules

Belvidere County Seaters

Coach: Aaron Feldman (43-56, fifth season).

2012 record: 8-17, 6-6 Skyland Conference Valley Division (fourth).

Key returnees: Sr. Tyler Grogan INF-P; Sr. Caleb Seibert 3B-P; Jr. Jake Carlson C; Jr. Logan Welles 1B-P; Sr. Avery Sepulveda INF; Sr. Johnny Giacchi OF-P; So. Henry Myerchin SS-P; So. Bobby Merle OF; So. Tyler Lutsky OF.

Key losses: Craig Tomkins 3B; Jared Allen OF; Vinnie Pisano OF; Kelsey Craig OF; Chris DeHerde 2B;

Promising newcomers: Sr. Anthony Madeo 2B; Sr. Tyler Tutka OF-P; Sr. Alex Hoffmaster OF.

Coach's comment: "I think that the group we have this season will be competitive. They're a very close-knit group, and can go a long way. We are deep at most positions, and have a group of talented kids at the JV level that will push the varsity guys. Our goal is to get better each day throughout the season so that we are ready for the state tournament."

Outlook: The County Seaters are two seasons removed from a 17-win season and reaching the North 1, Group 1 semifinals in 2010. For the second year in a row, they lose a key player as Grogan will miss the season with a torn ACL. That's big considering Grogan (.424 avg, 22 RBIs, 2.84 ERA) was the squad's best all-around player. Carlson is solid behind the plate. The Seaters have a favorable schedule, particularly their non-conference slate, so a .500 season is certainly a possibility.

Delaware Valley Terriers

Coach: Marty White (88-100, 10th season).

2012 record: 10-11, 4-8 Skyland Conference Raritan Division (tied fifth).

Key returnees: Sr. Scott Skripko 1B-P; Sr. Chris Pilone C; Sr. Reed Williams 2B-SS-P; Sr. Ryan Hann P; Jr. Joe Chiarino OF-3B-P; Jr. Chris Fiaschetti SS-P; Jr. Adam Novotny OF-P.

Key losses: Tom Chiswick 3B-P; Tyler Johnston 1B-2B-P; Dennis Martell OF-2B; Kieth Ferdinando OF; OF Paul Innocenti; Mike Innocenti 1B-DH.

Promising newcomers: Jr. Nick Perna 2B-3B-P; So. Logan Brown P; Sr. Joe Egidio OF; So. Frank McHugh OF; So. Mike Pilone C; S. Travis Scharffenberger 1B; Jr. Kevin Mikulicz OF; So. Devin Merritt INF-OF-P; So. Drew Mera INF-OF-P.

Coach's comment: "We don't have a dominant player that will carry us, but we should have solid play from all positions, and at the plate. With Skripko, Williams, Pilone and Hann returning, leadership has been a strength."

Outlook: Terriers were among the most improved teams a year ago, coming off a two-win season in 2011. This club has a solid nucleus, with Skripko among the conference's top players and a solid backstop in Pilone. Del Val has more depth in the pitching department this season, which is a huge plus. Expect the Terriers, who are well coached, to improve on last year's record.

Hackettstown Tigers

Coach: Gary Poyer (143-103, 12th season).

2012 record: 4-13, 3-7 NJAC Freedom Division (fifth).

Key returnees: Sr. Owen Gavin OF; Sr. Nick Garno 3B; Sr. Ronald Gieger SS-3B; Sr. Matt Bailey C; Jr. Justin Nicholls 1B-P; Sr. Matt Lerman 3B-P; Sr. Eddie Dulio OF; Sr. Joe Alitz OF; Sr. Dean Caravito OF; Jr. Kenny Stelmack 2B.

Key losses: Ryan Tatarka P; Joe Milelli P; Tyler Kessel 2B; Nick Lang OF.

Promising newcomers: So. Matt Pezzato C; So. Matt Engles P-OF; So. Tyler Profilias P-SS; So. Nick Pixley P-1B.

Coach's comment: "This is a promising group with speed and defensive prowess. We also have some solid pitching."

Outlook: The Tigers are coming off one of their worst season in recent history after a 21-win campaign and a Freedom Division title two years ago. Poyer likes his pitching staff, so that's a step in the right direction. If the offense can come around, there's no reason to think this club can't make some strides in what should be a wide-open division race.

Hunterdon Central Red Devils

Coach: Mike Raymond (247-89, 13th season).

2012 record: 23-7, 12-4 Skyland Conference Delaware Division (tied first).

Key returnees: Sr. Geggie Russomagno (.374 avg, 6 HRs, 30 RBIs) OF; Sr. Jeremy Ake (.400, 38 hits, 5 HRs, 29 RBIs) 2B; Sr. Bill Maier (6 wins, 3.83 ERA) P; Jr. Mike Pffeninger 1B; Jr. Matt Stalter SS; Sr. Paul Cucco 3B; Sr. John Icaza OF; Sr. Nick Gentile OF; Sr. Brett Mele C; Sr. Robbie Ehrhard P; Sr. Ryan Thomas P; Sr. George Daley P; Sr. Josh Susekind P.

Key losses: Evan Klimchak SS; Kenny Wilson OF; Brett Bonn 3B; Steve Rasile P; Joe DiGiovanni P; Pete Monahan P; Jr. Drew Rodriguez OF (transferred to Immaculata).

Promising newcomers: Sr. DJ Adams 1B; So. Brett McManus 2B; Fr. Matt Toke 3B; Jr. Zach Gusitites OF; So. Henry Hawkins OF; Sr. Jay Jernigan C; Jr. Zak Vacca C; So. Mike Novello P.

Coach's comment: "I believe this year’s team has the talent and potential to be successful again this season. We have five returning positional starters and three pitchers who combined for nine of our wins last season on the mound. Defensively, I expect our team to be very solid. We definitely need to find a way to replace the wins and leadership we received on the mound last season, but I do believe we have a number of young arms prepared for the challenge."

Outlook: Red Devils once again enter the season without question as the Open Mike area's top team, with nine starters back from a team that reached the North 2, Group 4 sectional final. Ake, a Delaware recruit, is one of the top infielders in the state, while Russomagno is heading to the U.S. Naval Academy in the fall. Maier and Thomas, two of the team's top arms, are going to Iona and Marist, respectively. Expect another season of championship runs for the Hunterdon County powerhouse.

North Hunterdon Lions

Coach: Mike Kane (12-16, second season).

2012 record: 12-16, 4-11 Skyland Conference Delaware Division (eighth).

Key returnees: Sr. C.J. Rasile OF; Sr. Shane Brown OF-P; Sr. Mike Ragozine 1B; Sr. Greg Cocchiola 3B; Sr. Devlin Berry OF; Sr. Robbie Young 2B; Sr. Andrew Gianos OF; So. Andrew Meiners C.

Key losses: Derek Jenkins OF; Ben Stine 1B-P; Tim Howard SS-P; Rob Aromando 3B-P; Alex Noboa 3B-DH; Garrett Smith P.

Promising newcomers: Jr. Marc Monks SS; Jr. Zach Kaminsky OF; So. Tom Schumacher 1B-3B-DH; Sr. Tyler Smith P; Sr. Justin Trinity P; Sr. Jeff Kortina P; Jr. Quentin Klein P; Jr. Kurt Thompson P; Jr. Griffin Hatton P.

Coach's comment: "It looks like we're going to have a real solid pitching staff. All the kids have been working hard and their work in the offseason is really showing. Things look very good so far, so hopefully the weather breaks soon so it feels like spring."

Outlook: Traditionally one of the area's top programs, the Lions took a step back a year ago in Kane's first season at the helm. The losses of Jenkins, Stine and Howard to graduation will be tough to overcome, as North tries to find some offensive consistency to match what their coach feels is a talented young group of arms. Time will tell if this club can make a push up the division standings.

North Warren Patriots

Coach: Jim Haupt (203-133, 15th season).

2012 record: 15-7, 9-3 Skyland Conference Valley Division (second).

Key returnees: Sr. Hunter Stevens (.329, 25 runs) OF-P; Jr. Cam Esposito OF-P; Jr. David Wilbur (.323, 17 RBIs) C; Jr. Alex Hladik (.362, 19 RBIs) SS-P; Sr. Mike Clothier OF; Jr. Brian Turner 2B-P; Jr. Nick Meyer 1B.

Key losses: Joe Frankosky 3B-P; Garret Becker OF-INF-P; Kevin Conlon 2B; Denver Greene OF; Stan Johnson OF.

Promising newcomers: Sr. Scott Severini OF; So. Matt Nicholoff INF-P; So. John Vuz INF; So. Lance Kernoschak INF-P; So. Vince Lubertazzo P; Fr. Sean Thornton P.

Coach's comment: "The mindset and work ethic of the players has been outstanding, and as long as there is continued improvement, I expect good things from North Warren this year."

Outlook: Patriots lost significant talent, particularly pitching, to graduation, but Haupt's teams always seem to find a way to be in the mix. If the young arms on this year's squad develop quickly, the Patriots could be a major force in their first season in the NJAC Freedom Division.

Phillipsburg Stateliners

Coach: Dave Hinkle (40-40, fourth season).

2012 record: 13-14, 4-11 Skyland Conference Delaware Division (seventh).

Key returnees: Sr. Alex Martin OF; Jr. Chris Trent (.364, 13 RBIs) OF; Jr. Matt McAnally 2B; Jr. Tyler Plesnarski DH-P; Sr. Tyler Widitz (.316, 23 RBIs) 3B-P; Sr. Bryan Gardner 1B; Sr. Tyler Woscek (1-2, 1.24 ERA) P; Sr. Zach Yale P.

Key losses: Anthony Ciavarella P-1B-OF; Devin Grade C-2B; Mike Ciesla P; Sahil Patel INF; David Toupin C.

Promising newcomers: So. Mark McGuire P; Sr. Max Ellerth P; Jr. David Wodzisz SS; So. Jake Knoble OF; Sr. Mike Kromar C-OF; Sr. Matt Raulf C; Jr. Andy Ferrara C; Sr. James Sinkbeil C.

Coach's comment: "We return six starters who all gained valuable experience playing in some big games last year. Martin and Trent give us a lot of speed at the top. Widitz has been driving the ball in the pre-season. Gardner is steady in the No. 4 hole. Wodzisz slides in at shortstop with McAnally moving from shortstop to second base this year. Sophomore Jake Knoble is a pure hitter that will only get better with experience." 

Outlook: Stateliners graduated their top three pitchers, including their ace Ciavarella, who is now playing at Monmouth. Therefore, the new arms must step up to support what should be a pretty good offensive attack. Woscek was a hero in last year's win over Pope John in the Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex semifinal game, as the 'Liners captured the county title. Hinkle said Widitz is a hard thrower who has looked good in preseason action. Another bonus is having former P'burg ace Mike Rossetti Jr. on the coaching staff this spring.

South Hunterdon Eagles

Coach: Toby Jefferis (26-76, seventh season).

2012 record: 2-13, 2-8 Skyland Conference Valley Division (sixth).

Key returnees: Sr. Grant Jensen OF-P; Sr. Jake Phillips SS-P; Jr. Jared Bogdan OF; Sr. Robert Albanir INF-P; Jr. Toby Coleman 3B-P; Jr. Jimmy Eick OF-1B; So. Jimmy Smiegocki 1B-P; Jr. Aaron Weber C; Sr. Zach Mastrich 2B; Jr. Ryan Godown P.

Key losses: Shaun Osgood OF-P.

Promising newcomers: So. Tyler Frazee INF; Sr. Austin VanTreuren OF.

Outlook: Eagles were a young team a year ago with only one senior on the entire roster. Predictably, they struggled in a two-win season. Jensen and Albanir were the team's top players in 2012 and will be counted on heavily this season. Jensen is the leadoff man and is expected to be the offensive catalyst. If everything falls right, South could approach the .500 mark this season.

Voorhees Vikings

Coach: Spark Mattson (76-118-1, 10th season).

2012 record: 13-11, 7-5 Skyland Conference Raritan Division (third).

Key returnees: Sr. Josh Hausler C; Sr. Dan Barone OF; Sr. Nick Marini OF; Sr. Mitch Palmer SS-1B; Sr. Andrew Haspiel P-OF; Jr. Matt Furca 2B-P; Jr. Will Palmer INF-P.

Key losses: Trey Conroy 2B-P; Matt Bonavita OF; Tyler Duplaga 3B-P; Bryan Konsig OF-1B; Tyler Kays P; Ronnie Honickel OF-1B;

Promising newcomers: Sr. Thomas Rocca C; Sr. Alex Tiger P-OF; So. Kyle Pierson P-1B-OF; So. Johnny Wernicki INF; Fr. Tyler Kroll INF; Fr. David Wernicki INF-P.

Coach's comment: "We're obviously short on experience and do not have much experienced pitching. We need to mature and grow up quickly in a baseball sense."

Outlook: With 12 players, including six newcomers, and not a lot of depth, the Vikings will be challenged to approach last year's win total. Hausler is a solid backstop, while Barone and Marini are talented outfielders. That's a good corp to build around and they'll be instrumental in bringing a young group along this season.

Warren Hills Blue Streaks

Coach: Mike Quinto (111-120, ninth season).

2012 record: 9-14, 6-6 Skyland Conference Raritan Division (fourth).

Key returnees: Sr. Shea Kohler 2B-P; Sr. Ron Legreide C-DH; Sr. Dallas Johnson OF-3B-P; Jr. Alex Julian 3B-SS; Sr. Michael Lascu 1B; Sr. Grant Cuomo P; So. Christian Stagaard C-OF-P; Sr. Cody Crowley OF; So. Craig Lawson 2B-SS-OF-P.

Key losses: Kyle Allen SS-P; Mark Apgar SS-P; Connor Cruts OF-P; Ryan Curto 2B-3B-P; Landon Chandler OF-P.

Promising newcomers: Jr. Derrick Black P; Jr. Nathaniel Capone P; Fr. Matthew Cummings OF; So. Nick Gagliano C-OF; So. Jake Larsen 1B-P; Jr. Alex Racano P; Jr. Patrick Shanagan OF-P; Fr. Anthony Veneziano OF-P; Fr. Timothy Woolf SS-P.

Coach's comment: "We know Shea Kohler and Mike Lascu will hit, as they are both proven players from last year. Our weakness may be in the depth of experience in our pitching staff, but we do have many who have talent."

Outlook: Blue Streaks are looking to rebound from a disappointing finish last season and should be among the top hitting teams this spring. Kohler is coming off an excellent junior campaign and should be the team's ace. Legreide is a solid catcher. Quinto is high on some of the younger players on the roster, including Stagaard and Lawson, who will both start, while freshmen Veneziano and Woolf are expected to see significant time. This should be a interesting group to follow.

Baseball: Sussex County preview capsules

High Point Wildcats

Coach: Mickey Thomas (239-117, 16th season, third stint).

2012 record: 10-11, 6-8 NJAC American Division (tied fourth).

Key returnees: Sr. Mike Ragnetti P-OF; Jr. Kyle Adams INF-P; Jr. Jon Stone P-INF; Preston Rowan INF-P; Brandon Carr INF; Matt Valente C.

Key losses: Brett Fundell P-INF; Ryan Conklin P-INF; Ryan Shulok OF; Luke Loughery Utility.

Promising newcomers: Tyler Bahr INF; Ken Christensen OF-P; Bayley Hickey INF; Matt Magura OF-P; Brandon Potucek OF; Trevor Risdon INF-P; Tyler Saczawa INF-P; Tyler Shulok INF-P.

Coach's comment: "We're looking pretty competitive in gymnasium baseball."

Outlook: Wildcats are looking to rebound from a sub-.500 season, but the losses of Fundell, Conklin and Shulok will be tough to overcome, as well as a potentially season-ending injury to Rowan. Ragnetti and Adams should be good atop the rotation, but the rest of the arms are young and inexperienced. A lot of the offense from a year ago is gone, so the 'Cats will have to swing the bats in order to approach last year's win total.

Hopatcong Chiefs

Coach: Chris Buglovsky (66-75, seventh season).

2012 record: 14-8, 8-2 NJAC Freedom Division (first).

Key returnees: Sr. Ryan Frace (.288, 20 runs) 3B-P; Sr. Adam McLagan (.404, 13 SBs) OF; Sr. Rick Prestifilippo C; Jr. Pat McNamara 3B; Jr. Pat Stanton P.

Key losses: Scootie Fischer SS-P; Ray Annett 1B; Hunter Guard 3B-P; Frank Fendrock C; Matt Cautero P; Dillon DelRosso P; Ben Colabella 2B; Dave Testa OF; John Loscalzo P.

Promising newcomers: Jr. Kevin Mulharin OF; So. Shea Bongiovanni SS; Fr. C.J. Robertson 2B; Fr. P.J. Rodick OF; Fr. Christian Ammiano 1B; Fr. Brandon Vanderhoof 1B; Fr. Brennan Dickens P; Fr. Vince Giordano OF.

Coach's comment: "Frace, McLagan, and Prestifilippo are guiding up to six freshman on the varsity squad, so the future looks set for the years to come."

Outlook: After winning their first division championship in 14 years, the Chiefs graduated another talented group so this figures to be a bit of a rebuilding year. Frace will likely be the staff ace. This year's version is young and will need some time to jell, but the program is well coached and this could be a team to watch by season's end.

Kittatinny Cougars

Coach: Brian Bosworth (11-10-1, second season).

2012 record: 11-10-1, 6-3 NJAC Freedom Division (third).

Key returnees: Jr. David Moyer (3-4, 2.16 ERA) SS-P; Sr. Kyle Potten (.350, 2-3, 3.00 ERA) SS-P; Jr. Joe Repasy (2-2, 2.69 ERA) INF-P; Sr. Matt Moszczynski OF; Sr. Casey McArdle (2-0, 2.25 ERA) OF-P.

Key loss: Greg Orlando C; Dan Chernati 2B; Brendan Ullmann 1B; Dustin Sallitt 3B; Jordan Murch OF-P; Cory Zervas OF-P; Brian Frawley OF; David Coombs INF.

Promising newcomers: Sr. Nick Pastor Poe INF; Sr. Dan Rosica 1B; Jr. Mike Dispoto INF-OF; Jr. Adam Goriscak OF; Jr. Dan Imperiale OF; Jr. John LaFiura C; Jr. Brian Reznik OF-P; Jr. Scott Sponder C; So. Cowan Sikora INF.

Coach's comment: "We graduated nine seniors from last year’s team, so our younger guys will have to elevate their games very quickly. There are some underclassmen who are excited for their opportunity to contribute at the varsity level. We do have the luxury of returning most of our pitchers. They pitched well last year and will be asked to shoulder a bigger load this season."

Outlook: Cougars finished over the .500 mark -- a step in the right direction -- and finished third in the division in Bosworth's first season in charge. Pitching is scarce in the area, so with four pretty good arms, this team should be competitive in most of its games this season. If the offense can contribute, the Cougars could be one of the teams to beat in the division race.

Lenape Valley Patriots

Coach: Bob Klinck (60-64, sixth season).

2012 record: 12-12, 4-6 NJAC Freedom Division (fourth).

Key returnees: Sr. Drew Burke P; Sr. Ken Costa P; Sr. Bryan Falato OF; Sr. John Leyden P-1B; So. Jim Fluke SS-P; Sr. David Kain OF; Sr. Greg Walker C; Sr. Mike Deerfield P.

Key losses: Bob Pregno C; Carmen D'Aiuto OF; Zack Samiljan INF; Kyler Houser 1B; A.J. Nolan 3B-P; Will Portington OF-P.

Promising newcomers: Sr. Anthony Basciano P-1B; Jr. David DelSontro C; Jr. Tyler Rogers INF-OF; Jr. Dan Rafferty INF; Jr. Nick Sabatini OF; So. Pat Togno P-OF; So. Rob Sparacino C; So. Nick Leonard OF; So. Cole Swanson P-1B.

Coach's comment: "We return some very good pitching that should determine our success this year.  We have great competition at all positions, which will hopefully make us stronger. We expect to be competitive every game and have a successful season." 

Outlook: Patriots reached the sectional semifinals a year ago and return their No. 1 pitcher in Burke, who was 6-1 with a 2.07 ERA as a junior. Costa is the No. 2, so the pitching staff is in good shape. The question is offense, as Pregno and D'Aiuto were major losses from the lineup. Expect this team to make a run at the division title and compete in the sectional playoffs.

Newton Braves

Coach: John Selitto (48-111, eighth season).

2012 record: 6-17, 2-8 NJAC Freedom Division (sixth).

Key returnees: Sr. Anthony Morro (.362, 20 RBIs) P-1B; Sr. Chris Branham (3.41 ERA, 41 K's) P-3B; Sr. Ryan Vasquez OF; So. Nick Grant (3.50 ERA, 28 K's) P-OF-1B; Sr. Joey Selitto 2B; Jr. Ben Cramer OF; Sr. Brady Castle OF-SS-P; Jr. Casey Thomas SS-OF-P; Jr. Joey Maker 3B-C; Jr. Charlie Grotyohann C.

Key losses: Sammy Hontz OF-1B-P; Jim Papis C.

Promising newcomers: Jr. Luke Leifken P-1B; Jr. Justin Smith OF; Jr. Steve Kelly P-3B-1B; Jr. Anthony Brown SS-2B; So. Jon Bernotas INF; Jr. Ryan Hattersley 2B-P; Sr. Quinn Kramer P-OF.

Coach's comment: "This is a team that should compete at the top of the conference. Pitching and defense will be the strength of the team with good senior leadership. [We] have experienced the growing pains over the last two years and they're eager to prove themselves as a legitimate contender for the conference title. We have the ability, attitude and desire to be very good."

Outlook: Braves, who went 9-34 overall the last two seasons, are coming off four straight losing campaigns, but optimism for a banner season remains high. The loss of Hontz, a four-year starter, hurts, but Selitto believes this should be a turn-around campaign for a tradition-rich program. Morro, Branham and Grant are a formidable group on the mound and also should help the Braves with their bats. This club is anxious to register a few overdue winning moments on its timeless home field at Memory Park.

Pope John Lions

Coach: Vin Bello (215-134-1, 14th season).

2012 record: 16-9, 12-2 NJAC American Division (second).

Key returnees: Jr. Dan Cunico P-3B; So. Jay Sanford SS; So. Ethan Collins P; So. Matt Piwko P; Sr. Ken Mott P; Sr. Anthony Gignatelli P; Sr. Rob Sanders 1B; So. Zack Leach C; Jr. Connor Kopnik INF; Jr. Mike Young OF; Jr. Axel D'Addario P-2B.

Key losses: Matt Tietz SS; Matt McNally OF; Glen Gavan 3B; Sam Redwood OF; Jack Meehan P; Colin McGivney P; Jay Newman INF.

Promising newcomers: Sr. Steve Tummenello 2B; Sr. John Fierro OF; So. Austin Bailey OF; So. Cyrus Ahmadi; Sr. Graham Jensen OF; So. Jack Nelson 3B.

Coach's comment: "We are playing a very tough [non-conference] schedule."

Outlook: The loss of Tietz, a slick-fielding shortstop and the top player in Sussex County last year, is a big blow to the offense, which is a big question mark heading into this season. If this team hits, the Lions will be tough to beat once again, as they feature several of the area's best arms in Cunico, Collins and Piwko. The hard-throwing D'Addario was a big bonus in the bullpen last spring. Young, the leadoff man, Sanders, Leach and Sanford are the only starting position players returning for the Lions.

Sparta Spartans

Coach: Sam Slobodzian (251-162-2, 17th season).

2012 record: 12-12, 6-8 NJAC American Division (tied fourth).

Key returnees: Jr. Thomas Ruddy (.443, 23 SBs) OF; Sr. Peter Forman C; Sr. Sean Dilger (.363, 22 RBIs) 1B-P; Jr. Austin Unglaub 2B; Jr. Kevin Foulds (3-3, 3.15 ERA) 3B-P; Jr. T.J. Estanislau 3B; Jr. Matt Chemis OF; Sr. Grant Hagedorn OF; Sr. Codie Aromando OF-P; Sr. Jon-Karl Widuch OF.

Key losses: Devon Livingston C-P; Jason Postorino 3B-P; Sr. Derek Tappen 1B-P.

Promising newcomers: So. Dillon Mendel 3B-P; Jr. Michael Meisel C-DH; Jr. Nick Shlala OF-P; Jr. Matt Pampin P; So. Connor VanKampen P; Jr. Drew Garger P.

Coach's comment: "We are extremely excited about this season. We return seven out of our nine starting positions. This includes three-year starter Thomas Ruddy, an All-NJAC center fielder and last year’s team MVP, and Kean University-bound Sean Dilger. Six out of the seven returning starters hit better than .300 and we look to improve on those numbers this year. I really like this group this year."

Outlook: Based on what they have returning, the Spartans are clearly the team to beat in Sussex County. Slobodzian, who doesn't over rate his teams, is excited about the season and with good reason. Ruddy, Forman and Dilger are an extremely talented trio, while Foulds is the team's ace on the mound. If the rest of the staff provides consistent pitching, the Spartans could make a deep run in the postseason.

Sussex Tech Mustangs

Coach: Brad Szatkiewicz (first season).

2012 record: 10-8 Independent.

Key returnees: Sr. Jimmy Crumb 1B-P; Sr. Chris Manzi C-P; Sr. Chris McNulty 2B-P.

Key losses: Dempsey Walters P-1B; Mike Hough OF-SS-C.

Promising newcomers: So. Paul Caron SS-P; So. Austen Campbell 3B-P.

Coach's comment: "I'm excited and so are my players. We have a mix of good leaders, strong newcomers and important role players. Along with staying healthy, this could help lead to being a very competitive team."

Outlook: Szatkiewicz, a former standout player for High Point who played college ball at Ramapo, takes over the coaching reins from Howard Drake, who spent the last six seasons at the helm. The Mustangs lost their best player in Dempsey Walters, who was the team's best hitter and pitcher. After going 10-8 last year and 10-9 in 2011, it's not a stretch to see the 'Stangs reach double digits in wins if the pitchers perform.

Vernon Vikings

Coach: Scott Berge (28-57, fifth season).

2012 record: 5-16, 2-11 NJAC American Division (eighth).

Key returnees: Sr. John Lipari 1B; Sr. Kevin Berge C-P; Sr. Ryan Duvall 2B-P; Sr. Kevin Ufferfilge OF-P; Sr. Michael Franklin 2B-P; Jr. Anthony Germinaro P-INF; Jr. Mike Harboy INF-P; Sr. Tyler Kart 3B; Jr. Chris Pontus OF-INF.

Key losses: Steve Fitzsimmons OF; Brian Vinniski 3B-C; Evan Schilling OF-P; Joe LoPicolo OF; Alex Hoffmann 1B-P; Mike Annunziata DH-C.

Promising newcomers: So. Riley Keenan Utility; Sr. Max Schriner OF; Sr. Sam Vitellaro OF-P.

Coach's comment: "[We have a] good nucleus of the team back and we're looking on improving from last years record."

Outlook: Vikings went 5-17 in 2010 and approached the .500 mark in 2011 at 7-11, before finishing 5-16 last season. Lipari is one of the top players in the county and will look to carry the offense again this spring. Of course, like most teams in the area, pitching is a big question mark. If the arms can keep the club in games, a finish around the .500 mark is not out of the question.

Wallkill Valley Rangers

Coach: Kevin Lukich (47-57, fifth season).

2012 record: 14-11, 7-3 NJAC Freedom Division (second).

Key returnees: Sr. Joe Hocking 3B-P; Jr. Brandon Grabkowski OF-P; Sr. Brian Niedergall 2B; Sr. Casey Jervis (3-3, 1.71 ERA, 30 K) P-SS; Sr. Rob Stecher P-1B; Sr. Alex Reiman C.

Key losses: Brendan Drexler C; Tommy Sweller 2B-P; Owen Law OF-P; Brandon Moore OF-P; Mike Penque 3B-2B; Eric Blain 1B; A.J. Castelucci OF-P

Promising newcomers: Jr. Nick McWilliams C; Jr. Brett Hill 1B-P; So. Kyle Rosencranz SS; So. Michael Armstrong OF; Fr. Richard Stecher OF; Fr. Wes Walton OF-P; Sr. Jim Lodema OF; Sr. Josh Todd OF.

Coach's comment: "After losing seven starters from last year, we will rely heavily on our returning pitchers.  With seven underclassmen, the development of the pitchers and team defense will determine our success."

Outlook: The Rangers doubled their win total and reversed their division record a year ago from the previous season. The program went 7-17 in 2011 and is now four years removed from a run to the North 1, Group 1 semifinals in '09. Last year figured to be a bounce-back season in Hardyston and it was. Lukich says this year's version is talented but young. He's regarded as one of the top coaches in the tri-county area, so look for this team to make some noise in what should be a wide-open division race with the additions of Jefferson and North Warren in the NJAC Freedom.

Wrestling: Bernstein, Pongracz win in Lions Classic

State medal winners Jadaen Bernstein of Voorhees and Mike Pongracz of Delaware Valley earned victories for New Jersey in the 33rd annual Easton Lions Club All-Star Classic on Monday at Easton Area High School's 25th Street Gym.

Pennsylvania won nine of 14 bouts en route to a 32-15 win, and now leads the all-time series, 20-13, dating to 1981. New Jersey won last year's event, 28-15, and had won three straight and four of the previous five classics.

Wilson's Jaryd Flank was named the Outstanding Wrestler by virtue of his 12-10 win over Phillipsburg's Zach Fisher.

Pongracz, a three-time state placewinner and the Terriers' all-time wins leader, earned a 1-0 decision over Parkland's Ian Evans, a district finalist, at 132.

Bernstein, a two-time state finalist, followed with a 3-0 win over Blue Mountain's Mitch Myers at 170.

Other winners for New Jersey included Belvidere's J.B. Lawson (220) and Ryan Appleby (285). The Warren County school had four representatives on the mat, as Evan Bray (182) and Jesse Thorsen (152) dropped one-point decisions. Hunterdon Central's David Fenton (160) was the other winner for the Garden Staters.

Pennsylvania also won the youth match, 39-20, that preceded the high school event.

PENNSYLVANIA 32, NEW JERSEY 15
138 -- Ryan Todora (Bethlehem Catholic), Pa., d. Nick Matthews (West Morris), 1-0.
120 -- Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic), Pa.,  p. Corey Fleming (West Morris), 3:23.
145 -- Blake Bowman (Tri-Valley), Pa. md. Tim Higginson (Hunterdon Central), 10-2.
182 -- Tyler Greene (Easton), Pa.  d. Evan Bray (Belvidere), 4-3.
220 -- J.B. Lawson (Belvidere), NJ, d. Evan Kauffman (Freedom), 5-2.
132 -- Mike Pongracz (Delaware Valley), NJ, d. Ian Evans (Parkland), 1-0.
170 -- Jadaen Bernstein (Voorhees), NJ, d. Mitch Myers (Blue Mountain), 3-0.
113 -- Jaryd Flank (Wilson), Pa. d. Zach Fisher (Phillipsburg), 12-10.
285 -- Ryan Appleby (Belvidere), NJ,  d. Shaun Heist (Parkland), 6-4.
126 -- Grimaldi Gonzalez (Liberty), Pa. md. Joe Kratochvil (Warren Hills), 9-1.
195 -- Josh Alpha (Bethlehem Catholic), Pa. d. Liam Korbul (North Hunterdon), 3-2 UTB.
210 -- Ray O'Donnell (Saucon Valley), Pa. d. Anthony Messner (Franklin), 2-0.
160 -- David Fenton (Hunterdon Central), NJ, d. Evan DiSora (Easton), 4-3.
152 -- Ty Herzog (Northern Lehigh), Pa. d. Jesse Thorsen (Belvidere), 3-2.