Troy outfield loaded with experience, talent
Published 9:13 pm Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Come first pitch on Friday night against Florida A&M, the faces in the Troy outfield will be familiar.
The Trojans will utilize seven outfielders during the 2013 season including Danny Collins who makes the move from third base to right field.
Collins, a junior, was named to the Preseason All-Sun Belt Conference team after batting .318 and led the team with 12 home runs. Collins will also be used as a designated hitter and could possibly see some action at first base.
Senior Josh McDorman has experience at all three spots in the outfield. After suffering an infury just nine games into last season, McDorman returns to the lineup looking to lead the Trojans back to an NCAA Regional.
Chase Mathis hit four home runs a year ago and can play both left and right field.
Ali Knowles has been highly priased by Troy coaches as a top-notch defensive centerfielder who has worked hard to improve his offensive presense. Knowles started just 14 games last season but appeared in 45.
Clay Holcomb with give the Trojans a speedy option as the sophomore stole 12 bases in his freshman campaign.
Jo-El Bennett also returns after a solid freshman season in which he batted .263 in Sun Belt Conference play. Bennett tied Troy’s single-game record for walks last year with four against East Carolina.
Hunter Skipper is also back but has been battling injuries.
The Trojans welcome junior college product David Hall from Indian River Community College. Hall batted .373 with 11 home runs last season. Hall is expected to be Troy’s opening day designated hitter.
Troy opens its 2013 campaign on Friday at 6 p.m. with the first of a four-game series against Florida A&M at Riddle-Pace Field. The series continues with a doubleheader on Saturday beginning at 1 p.m. and concludes with a single-game on Sunday at 1 p.m.