This topic has already been touched on a bit in the "Top Teams in each Distict thread, but we can't let the North and Central Regions have all the fun. Hopefully someone will weigh in with some northwest region predictions as well so that we can get a good feel for some of the top AAA teams in the state and what we have to look forward to in the state playoffs.
Based on last years results (and what little I've gathered about returning players), I'd have to rank the teams as follows (not sure that I really believe it will finish this way, but on paper, this is how I see it):
1. Bethel- Last year's region champs return all but three players I believe, but they were significant losses (SS, 3B, and C). Shively will be very tough to beat when he is on the mound, but the question may be how they can fare with their #2
2. Menchville- Carter and Armistead may be the toughest 1,2 combo in the region and will be tough to hit. From what I hear, the question for them is whether or not they can play defense a little better this year.
3. Maury- Normally I'd be hesitant to put an Eastern District team this high, but they've proven themselves the last two years and when you look up competitor in the dictionary, you may very well find a picture of Coby Cowgill. I saw no one mentally tougher out there and he is backed by some talented teammates. They'll have to replace their catcher (sorry I can't remember all the names), but they have enough to run thru the Eastern District and go deep in the region playoffs
4. Cox- Undoubtedly a homer pick here, but led by a strong group of seniors, its now or never (or at least a few years) for the Falcons. They can not afford another slow start like last year. Solid 1,2 pitching with Mattes and Salter will be made all the tougher with strong-armed Austin Erb behind the plate and keeping them focused. The defense should be second to none so the key for the Falcons will be, as it is so often, how well they hit the ball.
5. Indian River- Returning the majority of their impact players, the Braves probably rate a higher spot than #5 and may very well be the preseason #1 when the Pilot does their initial ranking, but I can't bring myself to put them over the other 4 teams listed...yet
6. Nansemond River
7. Kellam
8. Landstown
9. Great Bridge
10. Princess Anne
There you go, let the second guessing begin...
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