Brick Memorial Poised for Baseball Season

Despite losing in one of the toughest ways possible, Evan Rizzitello knew it was only the beginning.

Losing to Jackson Memorial High School in the 10th inning of a semifinal Ocean County Tournament game last May, the Brick Memorial High School baseball coach knew they would have another shot this spring.

The Mustangs return five key seniors, along with a host of several underclassmen, as they prepare for the 2011 season, which begins on Friday at Pinelands Regional.

"Being that we are relatively inexperienced, we are hopeful that seniors with varsity experience will step up and lead the team," Rizzitello said.

Headed by shortstop Michael Rytelewski, who will play at Montclair State University next season, the Mustangs also will look to senior pitchers Rob Schmidt and Michael Salerno, and senior catchers Chris Austin and Ryan Shaughnessy.

Juniors Kevin Nilsen and Ryan Traino also are expected to contribute as infielders. Nilsen is expected to pitch as well.  Both players saw significant playing time as sophomores.

The Mustangs are deep at the catcher position with Austin and Shaughnessy, Rizitello said. Ryan Melia, a sophomore, will also look to compete for the starting catcher's  job.

Freshan Kyle Cala is a player to watch, expected to see varsity time in the outfield.

Despite the talent level on Brick Memorial, there is no question that Shore Conference A South is one of the toughest.

"Even though we are in arguably one of the toughest divisions in the state, we expect to be competitive year-in and year-out, and this one is no different," Rizzitello said.

The coach also said that Toms River South and Jackson Memorial are likely to be the strongest in the conference.

"We always look forward to divisional games," Rizzitello said. "The Brick [Dragons] game this year is more meaningful because we only play them once."

Last year, the Mustangs went 7-7 in divisional play with a 13-11 record overall.

"Our expectations are to make post-season play," Rizzitello said. "[We want] to be competitive in the A South and make a run at the Ocean County Tournament."