PREP BASEBALL 1994 / ORANGE LEAGUE : Magnolia

1993 RECORDS OVERALL: 9-17 LEAGUE: 7-8

COACH: RECORD AT SCHOOL John Hangartner: 9-17

RETURNING STARTERS YR. POS. B-T Jason Dangler Sr. OF R-R Matt Nester Sr. OF-P R-R

TOP RETURNER YR. POS. B-T Tony Ortiz Sr. 3B R-R

TOP NEWCOMERS YR. POS. B-T Matt Draykowski Jr. OF-P R-R Josh Reding Jr. SS-2B R-R

OUTLOOK

Hangartner did a good job in his first season, guiding the Sentinels to a fourth-place finish after a season in the cellar. The former standout Sentinel shortstop said he expects continued improvement. “We have a lot of talented guys, and I am looking forward to a very successful year,” Hangartner said. “We have a strong pitching staff and a very sound defense. Barring injuries, I feel there is no reason we shouldn’t take the Orange League title.” The Sentinels have experienced success. They finished a half game behind league champion Brea-Olinda in 1990 and a game behind the Wildcats in ’91. A title this season, however, is unlikely. Many coaches have picked Brea-Olinda and Valencia to battle for the top spot because of their returning talent. If Magnolia is to achieve its goal, however, it will need strong, consistent play from Dangler and Nester. Dangler, a swift fielder, batted .483 in league play and is a two-time all-league selection. Nester (.333) is expected to be the Sentinels’ top pitcher. Ortiz (.308) is a leader in the infield. Reding could make a major impact. He moves with ease from shortstop to second base and he can pitch. Several positions, however, are unsettled. Hangartner is considering many options at first base and catcher. Jobs also are open on the pitching staff.

SCHEDULE

March 7-8 at Loara tournament; 9 vs. Bolsa Grande; 10-12 at Loara tournament; 15 at Newport Harbor; 16 at Kennedy (2); 18 vs. Anaheim; 23 at Savanna; 25 at Western.

April 6 vs. Valencia; 8 vs. Brea-Olinda; 13 at Anaheim; 15 vs. Savanna; 20 vs. Western; 22 at Valencia; 27 at Brea-Olinda; 29 vs. Anaheim.

May 4 at Savanna; 6 at Western; 11 vs. Valencia; 13 vs. Brea-Olinda.