Twins ready to kick into gear for 2018

 

 

The Lewis-Clark Twins may be coming off a regional title and an appearance in the 2017 American Legion World Series, but the squad will have a much different look when it hits the diamond this week.

Only four members of last year's program will return to Harris Field to sport the green and gold, leaving second-year coach Kevin Maurer to piece together a starting lineup composed primarily of newcomers.

"It's just that mix of us understanding what we need to do to be successful," Maurer said. "I do like the focus that they've had during the three practices we've had, but it's going to take some time to get

The Lewis-Clark infield will feature a batch of new faces after the collegiate departure of double-play duo Riley Way and A.J. Davis. Lewiston High standout Jaden Phillips will anchor third base while ex-Bantam Nate Savolainen is expected to see immediate playing time behind the dish.

"I do feel like we've got some guys that should be swinging it pretty good by the end of the year," Maurer said. "But we also lack some team speed right now."

After helping Genesee claim the Idaho Class 1A title earlier this spring, hurler Coy Stout looks to emerge as one of the top arms for the Twins' pitching staff. With strict pitch-count rules in place, Maurer expects nearly every member of his squad to take the bump this season.

"When you pretty much lose all your arms from last year and you have to start over, it's definitely a challenge," Maurer said. "The 16 guys that we have on the team - I can say that all 16 will probably toe the rubber for us this season. It's just giving them those opportunities and going through those moments, so that by the end of the year our pitching staff can be one of our strengths."

Last year's deep playoff run established Lewis-Clark as the region's elite squad - but that reputation has only generated more motivation among area rivals, who hope to secure bragging rights with a win over the defending state champions. Maurer doesn't mind the increased pressure, as long as his squad has the right mindset on the diamond.

"It's always nice when you've had some guys go through what they went through last year," Maurer said. "They have an understanding of what it takes, day in and day out. For them to speak on their experience and help our new guys understand, it's definitely a benefit to have."

The Twins kick off play Friday with a 4 p.m. road doubleheader against the re-established Pullman Patriots.

"We don't get too caught up on an opponent, because there's other things that our focus needs to be on," Maurer said. "... Every team that you play is different."

where we want to be. We're just going to have to be patient with the process we're going through."