With heavy graduation losses, Trojans vie for positions

High school baseball practice is in full swing across Johnson County, with most teams set to begin the 2013 season within the next two weeks.

Greenwood, the defending Johnson County tournament champion, appears to be the most experienced and deepest team in the county. At least for now.

A new coach is changing the culture at Indian Creek. Greenwood Christian fields its second varsity team with a field to call home. And several teams are talented but enter the season with question marks.

Center Grove

The Trojans look to replace 10 players who graduated from last year’s 21-8 Metropolitan Interscholastic championship team. The cupboard is far from empty, though, and 33-year coach Dave Gandolph expects spirited competition to fill those holes.

The pitching rotation looks to be led by seniors Josh Piper, a closer last year, and Nick Owen at the top two spots. Junior Jay Prior brings varsity experience, as well.

Gandolph said that, with the rest of the roster in limbo, pitching will be even more important.

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