As we prepare for our 2014 high school season coverage, we are going to preview several teams throughout the state.

Team: Charles W. Baker HS, NY
Class: AA
Head Coach: Dave Penafeather
2013 Record: 22-4
PBR NY Pre-Season Rankings: No. 4 – Class AA

Top Returners:

Scott Blewett, RHP
A plus pitcher in New York. Signed with St. John’s and should hear his name in the 2014 amateur player draft this summer. At 6-foot-6, 210 pounds, Blewett is very projectable and stood out at the Area Code Games and World Wood Bat Championship last year. He sits in the low 90's with his fastball and has more in the tank. His delivery is clean and easy and he gets downhill well. He also shows the makings of a good curveball that sits 74-76.

Gage Blasi, SS
One of the leaders for the 2014 team and has the ability to be a big-time play maker.

Intriguing Matchups:
Fayetteville Manlius
Cicero-North Syracuse

Top Opposing Pitchers:
Steven Theetge (Cicero-North Syracuse HS)
Hunter Charles (Auburn HS)
Jeff Belge (Syracuse East HS)
Damon Ozelek (Syracuse East HS)

2014 Outlook:
The 2013 team was special, finishing at the top of the rankings in AA High School baseball in New York. They have some key players returning in Blewett and Blasi but will need some new names to step up and fill some holes. Seven starters from last year’s team are gone making this a fresh team for Coach David Penafeather (NYSSWA Coach of the Year). Time will tell, but the 2014 team has the grit and talent to make another deep post season run come June.

“In order for us to have a successful year, pitching and defense will have to step up in a big way," Penafeather said.