Cortez Stone Crabs at Suncoast USSSA Tourney at Lakewood Ranch

Scott Elisio, head coach of the Cortez Stone Crabs, and assistant coaches Todd Richardson and Kyle Schultz were proud of the efforts of the players at the November 19-20 Suncoast USSSA Tourney in Bradenton. The team made it to the finals with solid play losing 11-3.

While offense and pitching is coming along well the team thrives most on defense. Limiting the other team to three outs is key. Outfielders are positioned well and make the cutoff throws with accuracy. Out of the 11 players 10 have pitched with great success. Hitting is and area that Scott, Todd and Kyle are working on with the kids. One practice each week is spent solely in the cages. Scott likes a free swinging approach and wants the kids get to a certain spot in their swing.

The Cortez Stone Crabs chose to play at USSSA's tourney as it is local and well organized. Scott does not see a need to travel when USSSA holds monthly tourneys in the area. Being on the west side of Florida is a big advantage for travel baseball.