Spring Sports Preview: Sleepy Hollow Softball

Tony Milewski knew this day would come when he became the Sleepy Hollow coach three years ago. And it is a softball coach's worst nightmare—replacing a veteran pitcher.

Two-year starting pitcher Deanne Lindsay graduated last June, leaving Sleepy Hollow with a major question: Who will step into the circle for the veteran Lindsay who kept Sleepy Hollow in every game the past two years?

Milewski does not have to worry about this because he has two quality wind millers in junior Cassandra Torres and sophomore Jamie Bucci. Both pitchers threw last season so they are accustomed to the varsity level.

Last year, Sleepy Hollow went 9-12, but Milewski thinks the record is deceiving because three losses were by one run and two losses were by two runs. Sleepy Hollow qualified for sectionals, but lost a first-round game.

Torres and Bucci hold the key to the season for Sleepy Hollow.

"Cassandra has thrown a lot over the years and she has good command of the strike zone," Milewski said. "Jamie has a very good head about her and throws a good fastball."

Torres and Bucci are part of a large returning, veteran core. Seniors Jessica Bucci, Charlotte Frank and Kathy Perez headline the group.

Bucci caught Lindsay the last two years, but Milewski is moving her to the infield. Frank is a second baseman and Perez is an outfielder.

"Jessica is our leader," Milewski said. "She will do anything for the team and can play any position."

Junior Brittany Brand returns to center field for a third consecutive year. Classmate Mariana Tolentino will be an outfielder and Torres, when she is not throwing heat, played left field the last two years.

Jamie Bucci is a two-time all-league player who is an excellent defensive first baseman. When she is not pitching, Bucci will be at first base, where she started the previous two years. Sophomore Jessica Campbell moves in behind the plate while Jessica Onwe and Marisa Rosario return to shortstop and third base, respectively.

"Brittany has a tremendous arm and Jessica is a strong hitter who also has a tremendous arm," Milewski said.

Freshman Taylor Zayas can go at either first base or second base.

Milewski said he is still deciding on his newcomers and will make the decision after a few scrimmages.

"All the girls have a good attitude and have been working hard," Milewski said.