The Moorpark College baseball team shares high hopes for a winning season as they prepare for their first home game.
The Raiders’ first home game is on Feb. 1 against Pierce College in a conference game at the Moorpark College Baseball Field at 2 p.m.
Inspired by the mix of players, head coach Mario Porto believes this team will be in the top of their conference this year in comparison to last year’s season.
“I predict we will compete in every game,” said Porto. “This year we have a great mix of both new and returning guys.”
Also anticipating a winning season is coach Tom Vessella. He believes that the team’s atmosphere is different this time around.
“These guys are a well-gelled team,” said Vessella. “With how our team is built this year, we will stay until the end.”
First year member and left-handed pitcher Jake Carroll is expecting his team to do well this season and believes they will go far.
“Coming from high school, college baseball is a lot better,” said Carroll, an 18-year-old Business major. “I think our team is really good and we’re hoping for a great season.”
Coming from Ventura College, 19-year-old Andrew Nardi was offered scholarships to both the University of California, Santa Barbara and the University of Arizona. Faced with a tough choice, Nardi, a left-handed pitcher, accepted a scholarship to play baseball for the University of Arizona in the fall of 2018.
“I am thankful for getting a full ride to the University of Arizona,” said Nardi. “My experience at Moorpark College has been great and I wouldn’t change a thing.”
A returning member from last season is outfielder and 19-year-old Michael Radin, who shares high hopes in his team this season. The Raiders have been working hard during every practice to start this season off well, according to Radin.
“I think we are going be better than last year,” said Radin, Communications major. “Our coaching staff has been really helpful in preparing us for this season.”
For Porto, playing Pierce College is a great and clean competition. All the coaches from the local community colleges know each other and support each other well, said Porto.
“We recruit the same type of kids,” said Porto. “Since we are in the same conference, some of our players have come from the many community colleges.”
With high hopes of an outstanding season both Coach Porto and Coach Vessella want the best for their team.
“I can’t wait to see our guys out on the field,” said Porto.
“Looking forward to an undefeatable season with all of our new and returning players,” Vessella concludes.
