Friday March 29th, 2024
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FINAL SoftballCenter 2019 Pre-Season Rankings!

 

Softball Center's 2019

 

Pre-Season Rankings!

Teams 5-37 listed below!  

Rankings are for the most part done by classication groups with a few exceptions.  I will try to release 2 or 3 new teams per day as I count down to the #1 pre-season team in the nation by the start of the season in Las Vegas March 29th!  Many times a higher class team will be ranked ahead of a lower class team just because of their roster flexibility to add what they need. 

Remember this is for fun and with over 500 roster moves in Conference per year, the rosters and teams change throughout the season.

Note: teams will receive their initial classification by the Conference Classification Committee before March 29th.

2019 Team Rosters

Click here for a look back at the final 2018 Computer Rankings  

2019 Conference Make Up (37 teams):
4 Major Teams
Approximately 9 'AA' Teams
Approximately 18 'A' Teams
Approximately 6 'B' Teams

Note: most of the pictures in this article are from the past years and schedules and rosters are subject to change…


 

The 2019 season is upon us.  The pre-season rankings are complete.  The past two years the team favored in the rankings and the polls did not win the Major World Series and in fact only won a couple of regular season events.  That is hard to believe after over a decade where the pre-season #1 team pretty much dominated.  We have two new major teams this year in TDB and Smash It/Pure Sports.  We have Precision that seems to be a step above in the 'AA' division.  And an 'A' divison that will start 4 teams out as 'TBD' to be determined that are on that borderline between 'A' and 'AA'.  That will all work itself out as the season starts on Friday, March 29th at 2:30 PM Pacific time with the 9th Annual Las Vegas Major!  Tune in to SoftballCenter.com for weekly reports, brackets, computer rankings, tournament previews, league leaders, and the weekend chat room updates.  And check out USSSALive.com for livestreaming and the USSSA-Slowpitch facebook page and ConferenceUSSSA.com for information about the Conference Season.  Enjoy it, make some memories, safe travels, and good luck to all!

 

 

Major Teams

 

#1 Resmondo/Smash It/RDD/H. Auto/Sprizzi/S&S/Easton (FL-Major)

 

OF Brian Wegman
CF Steele Lewis
OF Buddy Wolf
OF Jeremy Yates
1B Neil Haglund
MI Kevin Bazat
2B Greg Connell
3B Bubba Mack
P Travis Clark
UT Brad Reckart
SS Cory Briggs
1B Kyle Pearson
LC Watson
OF Patrick Ellwanger

Manager – Brett Helmer
Scoring – Saul Simpson
Coach – Pete Campbell
Logistics – Shirl Webb

Sponsors:
Resmondo – Travis Resmondo
Smash It Sports – Rick Schiffauer
Thunder – Seth Green
RDD – Scott Delorge
H Auto – Bob Hortenbach
Easton – Brett Helmer
Sprizzi – Mark Breault
S&S – Scott Sunderland

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 3-5 Frank Webb Memorial
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 5-7 Busch Classic
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA Conference Championships
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Resmondo won it all in 2018.  They won Las Vegas, both Hall of Fame Dual tournaments, then they won the 2nd Seattle Dual, went undefeated at the Smoky Mountain Classic, won the Conference points standings and the Conference championships, and then came from 7 down in the bottom of the 7th to beat Dan Smith in the winner's bracket finals at the Major World Series and went on to win the Major.  They were 52-12 overall and all of their games were against 'B' or higher competition.  They were 16-6 vs Major teams and 12-3 vs 'AA'.  They also went and won the USA Softball Super Nationals.  WHAT A YEAR!  They did struggle some on the softball sized fields but dominated in the win column on baseball fields although many were close games.  Manager Brett Helmer has assembled a deep offensive and defensive powerhouse as well as a great group of sponsors.  Brett was more vocal in the dugout this past year and that led to the players finding ways to win those close games.  And for all the power and offense they had, the biggest play of the Major World Series was Neil Haglund hustling to beat a throw at first base.  Hustle wins games in slowpitch softball.  The team returns basically all of their starters except Bryson Baker, infielder Brett Rettenmeier, and super utility man Mike Umschied.  They picked up Cory Briggs to play shortstop and the leagues Onbase Percentage Champion Kyle Pearson returns to Resmondo.  The outfield may be the best hitting outfield in the game with Jeremy Yates in left, Steele Lewis in center, and Brian Wegman and Buddy Wolf in right.  Yates is a former league defensive MVP and Steele Lewis won the Defensive MVP at the Major World Series so they hold their own on the glove side too.  Bubba Mack found a home at 3rd base and won the Major World Series MVP.  Kevin Bazat is a former defensive MVP at middle infield, and Greg Connell has always been an underrated defensive player at 2nd base and is still just 2 years past where he won back to back league offensive MVP's.  They round out the team with 2018 league MVP pitcher Travis Clark who gets better every year, 1B/OF Neil Haglund, and backup pitcher LC Watson, and outfielder Pat Ellwanger who came from Xtreme.  

The team is built for stadiums but is more than capable of winning on any given weekend.  Expect them to have the normal post Major "food coma" slow start but they always play well in Vegas for some reason and should be a tough out at the Hall of Fame duals.

 

Resmondo pitcher Travis Clark and manager Brett Helmer look to do something I don't think Helmer has ever done, and that is repeat as Major World Series Champions!

 


 

#2 Dan Smith/Menosse/Steven Smith/FAI/Churchills/Shirts&Logos (CA-Major)

1B Davis Bilardello
3B Dale Brungardt
C Argen Dodds
OF Ben Dunn
OF Nic Santana
2B Steven Lloyd
P Mike Nino
OF Andrew Collins
MI Jordan Spaulding
OF Ryan Stovall
SS Jo Jo Bennett
OF Jason Matusik
P Losson White

General Manager and Assistant Coach – Pat Dalsanders
Head Coach – Steven Smith
Assistant Manager – John Rector
Stats and Assistant – Coach Hector Pagan

Sponsors:
Dan Smith
Eddie Menosse
Steven Smith
John Matusik – FLAtlanticIronworks.com
Bill Alles – Churchill's Steakhouse
Uniforms and Apparel by ShirtsandLogos.com

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 17-19 19th Texas Legends Major
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 14-16 37th Dudley
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 9-11 Louisville Slugger/DeMarini Classic
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA Conference Championships
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Dan Smith returns almost the entire team from 2018 where they were just inches away from winning the winner's bracket championship game at the Major World Series.  They were 62-21 overall in 2018, they won 4 tournaments including the Columbus Major, and were 8-14 vs Major teams, and 17-4 vs the 'AA' division.  They return both Mike Nino and Losson White at pitcher.  Their infield should be Dale Brungardt at 3rd, Jo Jo Bennett who won the shortstop job last year, Jordan Spaulding who came on strong defensively at middle infield in the second half of last year, the most athletic player in the game Steven Lloyd at 2nd base, and Davis Bilardello at 1st who won the offensive MVP award in the conference last year.  The outfield should be Ryan Stovall in left field, Ben Dunn in center, and Andrew Collins in right field.  They did sign former Smash It center fielder Nic Santana who is recovering from an offseason surgery and Jason Matusik from TDB who can play outfield or 1st base.  The lineup is rounded out by big Argen Dodds who hit over 100 home runs a year ago.   

Dan Smith was so close to winning the Major a year ago and still young enough to improve this year.  Look for them to try and be the team that pushes Resmondo on the baseball fields and at least beats them at times on the softball fields.  Ben Dunn in center field is entertaining to watch as is pitcher Mike Nino and on turf the defense should also take a step forward.  Give the management of Dan Smith credit as they tinkered with the team and brought in new players last year until it clicked and now they have stuck with that team this year and hope to reap the rewards.

 

Rookie of the Year Mike Nino will do the pitching again and Andrew Collins who was the MWS MVP a few years back

 


 

#3 TDB/Racks/Athlon (NC-Major)

IF Bryson Baker
CF Brian Zirkle
OF Everett Williams
OF Jason Branch
SS Daniel Cayton
MI Luis Reyna
2B AJ Montano
1B Jason Martel
1B Kyle Pearson
P Andy Purcell
C Ryan Harvey
C Josh Riley
P Tommy Bloom
C Jon Nelson

Sponsor – Tim Franks
Sponsor – Sony Pilcher
Sponsor – Brandon Roberts

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 17-19 19th Texas Legends Major
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 14-16 37th Dudley
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA Conference Championships
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

TDB sponsor Tim Franks combines with sponsors Sonny Pilcher and Brandon Roberts to form a new Major team.  Because the core of their team includes Andy Purcell the best pitcher in the game, Ryan Harvey one of the top power hitters in the game, Josh Riley who is capable of a monster season offensively, and Luis Reyna who may be the best glove in the game, the team has that Smash it Sports feel to it from the past two years.  But when you really look at the roster they grabbed 5 players from the TDB 'AA' team in CF Brian Zirkle, IF/OF Kyle Pearson, infielder AJ Montano, 1B Jason Martel, and backup pitcher Tom Bloom.  Then they grabbed rookie of the year candidate shortstop Daniel Cayton from Classic Glass, outfielder Everett Williams from Newbreed, and big Jon Nelson from Racks/Astros.  They round out the team with some really good free agent hitters in Bryson Baker from Resmondo and Jason Branch from Pure.  

Last years wins/losses don't really apply as this is a brand new team.  Expectations from the team leaders will be high but the team could finish anywhere from 1st to 5th in the points but most likely a solid 3rd.  They are looking for big seasons out of young players Cayton and Williams and Andy is 49 years old now, not that age will stop him from dominating at times.  Harvey has gotten better every year, Branch and Baker will probably play with a chip on their shoulder, and the defense although older could be solid if they stay healthy.  The field managers are the sponsors but most think Andy is the player/manager.  A very interesting team that in my opinion will be completely unpredictable.  

 

Shortstop Daniel Cayton and power hitter Ryan Harvey

 


 

#4 Smash It Sports/Pure Sports (SC-Major)

OF Filip Washington
CF Ryan Parfitt
OF Brad Carlsen
3B John Williams
SS Zach Messer
2B Tommy Melton
MI Josh Brown
P Justin Mucciarelli
C Donnie Hammonds
UT Ryan Ramirez
IF Nick Mitschke
1B Brett McCollum
P Faron Miller
OF Brandon Dillon
OF Dan Kirkwood
OF Jared Hunt

Sponsors:
Rich Schiffhauer – Smash It Sports.com
Craig Shaw – Pure Sports Tech.com

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
April 26-28 41st Cajun Classic
May 3-5 Frank Webb Memorial
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 7-9 Bash On the Chesapeake
July 5-7 Busch Classic
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA Conference Championships
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Pure Sports moves up to the Major division after winning the 'AA' Worlds and they pick up the Smash It Sports sponsorship.  Outfielder Filip Washington and big John Williams (3B) return to Pure along with 'AA' MVP pitcher Justin Mucciarelli, shortstop Zach Messer, slugger Donnie Hammonds, and utility outfielder Jared Hunt.  They grabbed Ryan Parfitt out of retirement to play center field who last played with Helmers team in 2016.  They grabbed Tommy Melton to play infield after a huge offensive season with Nightmare.  They picked up highlight reel middle infielder Josh Brown from Vivid, outfielder Brandon Dillon from Smash It, 1st baseman Brett McCollum from Precision, and outfielder Dan Kirkwood from Racks Astros.  They complete the team with some younger utility players that had big seasons in former Racks Astros shortstop Nick Mitschke and Classic Glass corner man Ryan Ramirez.  The backup pitching is in question as they had picked up Faron Miller but he then signed with Monsta and now has tournament conflicts.

Pure was 4th in the computer rankings a year ago, won 5 tournaments including 'AA' worlds, went 56-21overall, 2-3 vs Major teams, and 19-11 vs 'AA' teams.  I really felt they could compete for the 3 spot in the points which obviously they will, but then I heard Brad Carlsen will miss most or all of the season and I think its going to take this team more than one year to figure out the Major division.  Hopefully they give it more than one year and understand the goal is to get better individually and as a team EACH weekend and give it their best shot at the end.  Similar to what Albicocco did 3 years ago when they came out of nowhere to almost win the winner's final of the Major, and Dan Smith did last year when they were one out away from having to get beat twice in the finals of the Major.  Don't sweat the small stuff or early or even midseason woes.  Just improve and you will be fine.

   

Filip "Flip" Washington returns to Pure and Tommy Melton gets his first shot at Major.

 


 

'AA' Teams

 

#5 Smash It Sports/ Precision / 3rd Street Financial/ Bull Dawg Trucking / Broughton Pharmaceuticals / S&S Landscaping (IL-AA)

OF Dave Kessler
CF Travis Houseman
OF Brad Lunda
UT Austin Andrews
P Andrew Vitcak
MI Jeff Flood
MI Mike Umscheid
MI Heath Barnes
3B Matt Rear
C Jason Magnum
C Brad Tabler
1B Francis Fracek
MI Jeff Keske
P Roger Drake
UT Jason Young

Manager – Todd Ankney
Sponsor – Rick Schiffauer – Smash It Sports
Sponsor – Bill Wax – Precision
Player/Sponsor – Rob Mahaffey – 3rd Street Financial
Player/Sponsor – John Dutch – Broughton Pharmaceuticals
Sponsor – Donald Munford – Bull Dawg Trucking
Coach/Sponsor – Brandon Miller
Sponsor – Scott Sunderland – S&S Landscaping
Sponsor – Ben Cosgrove – Headlines Sportswear

2019 Schedule:
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 3-5 Frank Webb Memorial
May 24-26 Kut4 Sports Atlanta Major
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 14-16 37th Dudley
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA Conference Championships
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Precision has combined an extensive sponsorship group together to form the top 'AA' team in the country.  They basically have an all conference performer at every position and went and picked up Andrew Vitcak one of the top pitchers in the game, and the versatile Mike Umschied, both who came from the Major division.  Jeff Flood, Dave Kessler, Jason Magnum, Brad Lunda, Brad Tabler, Frank Fracek, Matt Rear, and the list goes on, will make the offensive depth the best in the division.  And middle infielder Jeff Keske, Heath Barnes, Flood, and center fielder Travis Houseman anchor a great defense.  And they have Roger Drake an experienced backup pitcher. 

Precision finished 5th in the computer rankings a year ago, they won 2 tournaments, went 40-23 vs 'B' and above teams, 4-6 vs Major teams, and 12-8 vs 'AA' teams.

 

Andrew Vitcak will be the starting pitcher and Mike Umschied will add Major experience to an already stacked team

 


 

#6 Bay Area/Rapid Fire/Bad Draw/Easton (CA-AA)

MI Freddie Bynum
IF Steve Edwards
C Joel Gonzalez
MI Vincent Granados
UT David Johnson
OF Tyler Marshburn
UT Aaron Miller
IF Ryan Mcclanahan
C Chad Mullins
P Bill Pinkham
IF Rich Racobaldo
3B Tyler Wilson

Sponsor – Joel Gonzalez
Sponsor – Mark Katz
Sponsor – Brandon Cashwell
Sponsor – Brett Helmer
Manager – Rob Humphrey
Manager – Toby Williams
Manager – Gary Perez

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 7-9 Bash On the Chesapeake
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 9-11 Louisville Slugger/DeMarini Classic
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA Conference Championships
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Bay Area Legends player/sponsor Joel Gonzalez merged with 'A' Champions Rapid Fires Mark Katz and Bad Draws Brandon Cashwell to form a new 'AA' team.  Bay Area brought back David Johnson who had a great rookie year in the conference, and Rapid Fire brought infielders Rich Racobaldo and Freddie Bynum.  Then they grabbed Astros players Bill Pinkham to pitch, Chad Mullins to mash, and Steve Edwards to do everything in between.  They also have outfielder Tyler Marshburn, infielder Tyler Wilson, and Brady Stewart from TDB.  And completed the roster with Conference Defensive Player of the Year Ryan Mcclanahan and longtime defensive standout Chente Granados from Pure Sports, and Aaron Miller from B Champs Crunchtime.  This team could be the best defensive team in 'AA' and one of the best in the Conference.  Last years records and finishes for Bay Area Legends don't really apply as this is a brand new team.  It looks like they have a bunch of experienced managers but remember mergers rarely work out. 

  

Ryan Mcclanahan and Chente Granados anchor a stout defense

 


 

#7 Xtreme/Miken/ASP/Athlon (MN-AA)

OF Matt McGowan
C Todd Newton
2B Joe Skyles
OF Chris Anninos
OF Matt Schrage
1B Shannon Smith
1B Curtis Stewart
SS Toby Letak
MI Brandon Newman
P Dirk Updike
P Austin Green
3B Dylan Smith
C Lyf Nimmo
MI Steve Whaley
1B Alex Bremer

Sponsor – Mike and Vicki McGowan – Xtreme Cut and Design
Sponsor – Brandon Roberts – Athlon
Sponsor – Jason Kendrick – Miken
Sponsor – Lyf Nimmo – ASP Nation
Manager – Dave Bremer
Manager – Dan Bergeron
Scorekeeper – Mary Bistodeau

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
April 26-28 41st Cajun Classic
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 14-16 37th Dudley
June 21-23 Sooner Invitational
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA Conference Championships
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

2017 'AA' Champion Xtreme and sponsor Mike McGowan return to the Conference.  They lost outfielder Pat Ellwanger to Resmondo and center fielder Colin Baartmann to retirement I think? and pitcher Danny Evans.  Those are three players that have been instrumental in Xtreme's past success.  But they picked up Chris Anninos and Matt Schrage from All Out to replace the outfielders and grabbed middle infielder Steve Whaley and return Lyf Nimmo who helped them win 'AA' Worlds 2 years ago.  Everyone else on Xtreme returns.  Shannon Smith and Curtis Stewart will provide a lot of offense.   Dirk Updike will do a lot of the pitching with Austin Green.   And Shortstop Toby Letak, 1st baseman Alex Bremer, outfielder Matt McGowan, MI Brandon Newman, C Todd Newton, 2B Joe Skyles, and 2nd year player Dylan Smith all seem to improve a little bit each year with experience.  This team could easily finish 6th in the points.

Xtreme was 7th in the computer rankings last year, 33-22 vs 'B' and above teams, they won the Dudley, were 1-3 vs Major teams, and 12-13 vs the 'AA' division.

  

Chemistry is key with Xtreme who is based out of Minnesota

 


 

#8 Newbreed/Cutter LLC/Thunder (WA-AA)

IF Sammy Christensen
1B Vic Cordova
C Kevin Filby
OF Jon Gastineau
OF DJ Hollingsworth
1B Steven Lopez
OF Lee Payne
C Pat Price
IF Brandon Raines
P Dan Sanchez
OF Bradley Scott
UT Brandon Traylor
SS Adam Ussery

Sponsor – Aaron Poysky
Sponsor – Sonny Pilcher – Cutter LLC
Seth Green – Thunder
Don Lekness – DR Drywall
Manager – Jose Sanchez
Manager – Ryan Lekness

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 9-11 Louisville Slugger/DeMarini Classic
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA Conference Championships
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Newbreed sponsor Aaron Poysky has brought back legendary manager Jose Sanchez (GTL) to create and run this years 'AA' team!  They brought back team leader Victor Cordova, hustling outfielders DJ Hollingsworth and Jon Gastineau, and one of the top base hitters in the game Steven Lopez.  Then they grabbed outfielder Lee Payne who had stints with Resmondo, Smash It Sports, and Pure, infielder Adam Ussery from Smash It Sports, long time Classic Glass utility man Brandon Traylor who had that monster Major World Series last year, catcher Pat Price and outfielder Bradley Scott who were a part of Pure Sports 'AA' World title last year, and top off the roster with Kevin Filby who last played with Smash It Thunder two years ago but has a long history of USSSA championship experience.  How is that for a run on sentence?  The key could be veteran pitcher Dan Sanchez who missed most of 2018 when he was pitching for Riot Sports.  Newbreed is good enough to finish 5th in the Conference this year and have a nice blend of young and older talent as well as offense and defense.

This is quite a different team this year but last year Newbreed finished 11th in the computer rankings, was 30-24 vs 'B' and higher teams, won one tournament, and was 11-3 vs 'AA' teams.

 

Lefty's Vic Cordova and Lee Payne

 


 

#9 Nightmare/Miken (MO-AA)

P Dan Bean
1B Tim Bowser
1B Mike Brambilla
C Mike Brown
2B Nolan Fogle
UT Erik Kanaby
UT Billy Maggard
OF Phil Matte
IF Zane Migues
UT Conner Murray
OF Zach St. Pierre
UT Chris Terry
OF Mike Williams

Manager – Tim Barnes
Sponsor – Nolan Fogle – Fogle Enterprises
Sponsor – Jason Kendrick – Miken

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
April 26-28 41st Cajun Classic
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 24-26 Rocky Mountain Shootout
June 21-23 Sooner Invitational
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA Conference Championships
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

 

Player/Sponsor Nolan Fogle returns to the Conference with a new manager in former BHR and AllOut's Tim Barnes who also is one of the managers for Team USA.  Tim has brought along some of his players from past teams in utility men Chris Terry, Erik Kanaby, and power hitter Tim Bowser.  Nightmare brings back Mike Brambilla who had that big week at the Major World Series, catcher Billy Maggard who has been among the league leaders the past couple of years, and Mike Brown who is one of the better base hitters in the game.  Then they grabbed speedy outfielder Mike Williams from Bay Area Legends, pitcher Dan Bean from Precision, and complete the team with young up and coming players Zane Migues from Empire, Zach St. Pierre from Vivid, Conner Murray from Nallys, and Phil Matte from JBL/Tailgaters.  This is another team that could easily finish between 5th and 8th in the Conference standings and their top 7 or 8 in the lineup could be as good as any 'AA' team.  The young players and chemistry will determine how high they finish.

Nightmare was 21st in the computer rankings last year, 26-27 vs 'B' and higher teams, 3-16 vs 'AA' teams, and 10-1 vs 'A' teams.

  

Billy Maggard and Mike Brambilla

 


 

#10 Riot Sports/Hubs Pub/Klutch/Showtime/Treedem/Benson/Miken/Worth (FL-AA)

1B Tre' Campbell
P Donald Plaisance
C Keith Martin
IF Keith Laski
OF Scott Hartling
IF Scott Hubbard
SS Marcus Thornton
IF Nick Utley
IF Evan Gallmeier
OF Mike Ortiz
Bruce Dady
BJ Fulk
Ian Sidebottom
UT Brandon Patzig

2019 Schedule:
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
April 26-28 41st Cajun Classic
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 21-23 Sooner Invitational
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Riot Sports sponsor Jason Annino with the help of Keith Martin return to the 'AA' division for a second year with a group of free agent players.  The only returning players are Martin, outfielder Mike Ortiz, and infielders Evan Gallmeier and Keith Laski.  They picked up Donald "Buckshot" Plaisance to pitch, Tre' Campbell and Scott Hartling for offense, and Nick Utley, Marcus Thornton, and Scott Hubbard for the infield, with Brandon Patzig as the utility man.  This team surprised everyone in 2018 with their hot start and tournament win in Chattanooga.  BJ Fulk and Ian Sidebottom were late additions to the Riot roster.

Riot was 9th in the computer rankings, 25-20 in Conference and World play vs 'B' and higher teams, and 13-3 vs 'A' teams.  They also beat 2 Major teams and 5 'AA' teams.

   

Mike Ortiz and Keith Martin were All Conference in 2018 and return to Riot

 


 

#11 Rebel Sports / TN / Troupe / M24 (MI-AA)

 

UT Justin Aldora
C Keith Anderson
OF Frankie Andriola
SS Brandon Bellamy
UT Matt Chromy
C Joe Dorton
1B Joe Formosa
OF Sal Formosa
P Jeff Graus
OF Corey Large
IF Ricardo Lizcano
1B Dave Miller
MI Josh Moore
UT Mike Newsted
UT Jordan Nuss
OF Kevin Raisor
SS Brett Rettenmeier
OF James Simpson
UTChris Yeo

Manager – Kenny Lowell
Manager – Corey Mcmahon
Manager – Mike Rosenthal
Manager – JJ Schimizzi
Manager – Tarz
Manager – Troupe

2019 Schedule:
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 3-5 Frank Webb Memorial
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 14-16 37th Dudley
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA Conference Championships
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Rebel sponsor JJ Schimizzi, Tarz, and Troupe return to the Conference with a team that is playing to honor the memory of Fred Budnarowski who passed away in 2017.  They bring back a number of their old Linedrive players in the Formosa brothers, Keith Anderson, Cory Large, pitcher Jeff Graus, and Dave Miller.  A few of those guys were on the Linedrive Sportz team that won 'A' Worlds in 2014.  They added infielders Rettenmeier from Resmondo, Moore from Dan Smith, Brandon Bellamy from All Out, Ricardo Lizcano and Justin Aldora from Astros, and complete the roster with some of the Rebel players from recent years.  This team will have to shake some rust off and overcome its biggest loss – playing without manager Freddie Budnarowski…one of the best and most prepared managers in Conference history.  Obviously the team has the talent to finish well inside the top 10 but we'll have to see how it goes early on.

 

Brett Rettenmeier and Josh Moore will anchor the infield for Rebel

 


 

#12 Premier/TG/Headlines/Easton (OH-AA/A)

Jackie Corn
Ryan Morrow
Andrew (Rocky) Staton
Adam Kaminski
Jimmy Carter
Cory Boothe
Kyle Center
Tyler Kincaid
Clay Norton
Ryan Uckotter
Brady Hightchew
Ryan Disbennett
John Franklin
Josh Onstott
Ben Cosgrove
Dan Feichtner

Manager – Kevin Forwith
Manager – Justin Green
Manager – Ben Cosgrove
Manager – Jonathon Golich
Manager – James Sparrow

2019 Schedule:
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 3-5 Frank Webb Memorial
May 24-26 Kut4 Sports Atlanta Major
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 14-16 37th Dudley
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

 

This is the new version of TG Brand meets Pure Romance with a TG Brand and Premier merger.  The core of the 2018 Premier team merges with Ryan Morrow, Adam Kaminski, Brady Hightchew, John Franklin, Josh Onstott, and pitcher Tyler Kincaid from TG Brand.  They have pitching depth with Kincaid and Kyle Center who were both 2018 Conference rookie of the year candidates.  They have the extra bases covered with Ryan Morrow who was among the leaders.  And lots of power with Kaminski, Boothe, and Disbennett.  Clay Norton and Ryan Uckotter are up and coming outfielders and they dusted off an old war horse in former Watanabe star Jimmy Carter.  Lets not forget Rocky Staton who plays infield with the best of them and last year showed great promise as a conference pitcher.  Sponsors Kevin Forwith, Ben Cosgrove, and Justin Green have assembled a team that should finish anywhere from 6th to 10th.  I only ranked them 12th because they have inquired about playing 'A' which would limit roster flexibility.

Premier was 12th in the Conference computer rankings last year, 22-21 vs 'B' and above competition, and 7-7 vs 'AA' teams.

 

Pitcher Kyle Center and outfielder Ryan Disbennett

 


 

#13 Classic Glass/Easton (CA-AA/A)

IF Pilar Amaya
UT Kade Christensen
IF Cameron Cox
UT Brandt Eaton
1B Ben Falcone
C Tommy Formosa
3B JD Genter
OF Trey Gilliland
SS Chris Hansen
C Chris Larsen
2B Blake Lively
P Nathan Newman
OF Chris Russell
UT Chris Schwinden

Sponsor – Classic Glass – Tom Formosa Sr. and Tom Formosa Jr.
Easton Sports – Brett Helmer

Manager – Tom Formosa
Manager – Mike Visser
Travel – Don Hollingsworth

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 17-19 19th Texas Legends Major
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 26-28 Rose City Major by Smash It Sports
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Classic Glass is another team in a points dilemma as they are just over on the roster points to be considered for 'A'.  They will give 'AA' a try and are mostly made of players that played for them in one of the past two years.  Tom Formosa's team has some obvious big name players like Chris Larsen, infielders JD Genter, Chris Hansen, Cam Cox, and Pilar Amaya.  They grabbed outfielder Chris Russell from Astros, infielder Blake Lively from Newbreed, and outfielder Trey Gillilland to go with some younger returning players.  Nathan Newman who did a nice job pitching will get the nod on the hill.

Classic was 22nd in the final computer rankings, 21-17 vs 'B' and above teams, 2-4 vs 'AA' teams, and 5-5 vs 'A' a year ago.  Classic could finish much higher if they embrace the 'AA' challenge.   

 

Cameron Cox

 


 

Teams that Registered 'A'

#14 Beckham/Pure/Exclusive (FL-TBD/A-AA?)

Mike Cirillo
Devin Anderson
Justin Tripp
Justin Mackey
Matt Vasquez
Orlando Castillo
Patrick Donahue
Peter Seiden
Reno Malay
Taylor Nichols
Travis Tucker
Zach Ross

Manager – Billy Register
Sponsor – Todd Beckham
Sponsor – Craig Shaw
Statistician – Pauly Wallnutz

2019 Schedule:
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
April 26-28 41st Cajun Classic
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 24-26 Kut4 Sports Atlanta Major
June 7-9 Bash On the Chesapeake
June 21-23 Sooner Invitational
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Beckham Brothers was put together by Billy Register and Pure Sports sponsor Craig Shaw.  They have former 'AA' players SS Reno Malay, 3B Matt Vasquez, IF/OF Justin Mackey, and 'AA' rookie of the year candidates SS/P Pat Donahue and outfielder Taylor Nichols.  They also have former Major/AA infielder Orlando Castillo.  To round out the roster they have Devin Anderson who won 'B' last year, Peter Seiden who was all tournament at the 'A' for Rapid Fire Athletics, and Zach Ross who was a big part of the La Famiglia post season run.  Beckham is loaded.  

 

3B Matt Vasquez and SS Reno Malay came from Newbreed.  Justin Mackey came from Pure Sports.

 


 

#15 Thunder/Chosen/Riot/Miken/Worth (NY-TBD/A-AA?)

UT Vincent Block
UT Gregg Downing
CF Dave Durso
P Daniel Evans
SS Josh Fyffe
MI Brian McBryde
OF Kyle Olsen
IF Chris Potts
C Mike Snyder
UT Ethan Stuckly
P Brian Therkildsen
UT Christopher Wood
UT Joe Yankee

Sponsor/Manager – Seth Green – Thunder
Sponsor/Manager – Joel DeGermaro – Chosen
Sponsor – Jason Annino – Riot
Sponsor – Jason Kendrick – Miken-Worth
Manager – Mark McCorrison

2019 Schedule:
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 24-26 Kut4 Sports Atlanta Major
June 7-9 Bash On the Chesapeake
June 21-23 Sooner Invitational
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
August 9-11 Louisville Slugger/DeMarini Classic
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Thunder sponsor Seth Green merges with Chosen who won the 'C' Worlds in 2017 to form a 'TBD/AA/A' type team.  They have a lot of upper level experience led by 'AA' and 'A' Champion pitcher Danny Evans from Texas.  Brian McBryde who played middle infield for FBI when they won 'A' and moved on to the Smash It Sports Major teams from the past two years.  They also have Mike Snyder and Kyle Olsen who played for the Thunder Conference teams the past couple of years, shortstop Josh Fyffe and center fielder Dave Durso from the 2018 La Famiglia team, Ethan Stuckley and Chris Potts who played for 'A' World Champ BHR, and the tall pitcher Brian Therkildsen from Stars.  Thunder should have success no matter where they end up with 4 players that have won 'A' and 4 others that have been either runner up or 3rd at 'A' Worlds.

 

Brian McBryde and Danny Evans will lead the Thunder defense

 


 

#16 Baugh Ford/Kut 4 Sports/Miken/Worth (AL-TBD/A-AA?)

OF John Zorich
3B Phillip White
MI Curtis Cornett
OF Adam Tennyson
P Tommie Baugh
OF Jason Gilfillan
UT Bradley Jones
SS Johnathan Rasberry
OF Matt Bunn
1B Carlton Griffin
IF Chad Folsom
MI John Sullivan
P Chad Loudon
OF Brandon Hooks

2019 Schedule:
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
April 26-28 41st Cajun Classic
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 24-26 Kut4 Sports Atlanta Major
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 9-11 Louisville Slugger/DeMarini Classic
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Tommie Baugh brings back his 2018 Conference team and adds a few of his players from years past.  Infielder Phillip White, pitcher Chad Loudon, SS Johnathan Rasberry, Matt Bunn, 1B Carlton Griffin, and infielder Curtis Cornett all return from past years.  And a core of players from 2018 comes back in outfielders Brandon Hooks, Adam Tennyson, Jason Gilfillan, and John Zorich, and infielders Chad Folsom and John Sullivan as well as Baugh himself at pitcher.  This team should make another run at Major World Series qualification.

Baugh Ford finished 16th in the computer rankings in 2018, 28-19 vs Conference and World opponents, 25-18 vs 'B' and above teams, 5-4 vs 'AA' teams, and 9-7 vs 'A' teams.  They also won the Cajun Classic and was an upset winner of the Houston Space City Classic! 

 

Baugh adds a bunch of players from last years OI Livingston team

 


 

#17 T&W/BCG/Cornerstone/Pauer/Miken (OH-A)

IF Cody Angus
UT Jeff "JD" Daup
IF Jason Ferguson
IF Stevie Hendrickson
UT Dustin Hinken
OF Josh Kirsten
OF Mitch Lendenski
P Bob "Pops" Noeth
IF Bobby "Boom" Noeth
OF Cody Pack
SS Kyle Kannenberg
UT John Radich
UT Todd Roush
IF Jordan Rosenbalm
UT Frank Russo
P Woody Torline

Manager – Eric Snyder
Assistant Manager – Mike Cruea
Assistant Manager – Phil Watkins

Sponsor – T&W – Woody Torline
Sponsor – Pauer Sports – John Radich
Sponsor – BCH – Van
Sponsor – Miken Sports – Jason Kendrick

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 14-16 37th Dudley
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 16-18 GSL 'A' World
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World

T&W joins the Conference after finishing tied for 5th at USSSA 'B' Worlds last year and having had top 4 finishes at the Hoosier Classic and Circle City Conference events.  They return a core of players led by the father/son Bobby Noeth's, outfielder Mitch Lendenski, and infielder Jordan Rosenbalm among others.  They also picked up All Conference performer John Radich from Pauer, slugger Jason Ferguson from All Out, center fielder Josh Kirsten from TG Brand, shortstop Kyle Kannenberg from Precision, and outfielder Cody Pack from Sports Reach.  This team should be at the top of the 'A' division all year with an outside shot at making the Major World Series.  Rosenbalm and Kannenberg are up and coming infielders.  Ferguson, Pack, Kersten, and Radich add veteran bats to the lineup.  And Mitch Lendenski in the outfield covers a lot of ground.

T&W was 11-10 in Conference and World play last year.  7-8 in Conference play, and 2-2 vs 'A' teams. 

 

Jason Ferguson and Kyle Kannenberg

 


 

#18 TPJS/Seminoles/NACSF.INC/Miken/SIS (OK-A)

Matt Cochran
William Waltrip
Jared Kennemer
Oliver Odle
Mark Cochran
Derrick Roland
Cody Mccarter
Justin Beal
Jon Harris
Andrew Miller
Richard Reeves
Harley Page
Trey Branscum
Corey Tapp
Dusty Brown
Tristan Metcalf
Steven Smith

Sponsor – Tony and Paula Sanchez –  NACSF.INC

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 3-5 Frank Webb Memorial
May 17-19 19th Texas Legends Major
May 24-26 Rocky Mountain Shootout
June 21-23 Sooner Invitational
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 5-7 Busch Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 9-11 Louisville Slugger/DeMarini Classic
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World

Seminoles has returned to the Conference and is under the guidance of Matt Cochran and sponsors Tony and Paula Sanchez.  They have a core of returning players like Justin Beal, Mark Cochran, Jon Harris, Jared Kennemer, Cody McCarter, Tristan Metcalf, Oliver Odle, Derrick Roland, and Corey Tapp to go with Nally's players Harley Page, Andrew Miller, Trey Branscum, and Richard Reeves.  They also added veteran Nightmare pitcher Wes Newell and outfielder Billy Waltrip who started 2018 with All Out.  Lets call this a regional merger between Seminoles and Nally's from 2018.

Seminoles was 29th last year in the computer rankings, 21st in the Conference points, was 21-20 in Conference and World play, 16-20 vs 'B' and above, and 7-7 vs the 'A' division.  Pitcher Wes Newell has found his way into the Major World Series more often then not when you think about his run with B&B Drywall, Vivid, and Nightmare.  Maybe this team is ready to take the next step? 

 

Pitcher Wes Newell and the Seminoles off season team party.  

 


 

#19 Chanticlear Pizza / Eurotech / J&H Wall / First Source Financial / PHD / Worth Miken (MN-A)

Aaron Lewicki
Mike Thorbrogger
Judd O’Connor
Chris Olson
Cory Hines
Ryan O’Connell
Eric O’Connell
Ryan Hassler
Chris Bauer
Nate Gessell
Kyle Bixler
Travis Auld
Kyle Charboneau
Shawn Casey
Scott Novak

Sponsor – Dale Heille – Chanticlear Pizza
Sponsor – Seth Thorson – Eurotech
Sponsor – Jack O’Connor – J&H Wall
Sponsor – Judd O’Connor – First Source Financial
Sponsor – Scott Brown and Mike Meyer – PHD Sports

Manager – Pat O’Connell
Manager – Mike Beardsley

 

2019 Schedule:
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 14-16 37th Dudley
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

The 2018 Conference team Chanticlear Pizza led by Pat O'Connell has joined forces with Mike Beardsley's Eurotech team to play Conference ball in 2019.  This roster seems to all be players from Minnesota.  They picked up pitcher Aaron Lewicki who has pitched for Xtreme, Backman, and TDB in recent years to go with Mike Thorbrogger who pitched last year and is one of the better hitting pitchers in the game.  Auld, Casey, Charboneau, Gessell, Hines, and the O'Connell brothers all return from Chanticlear.   Bixler, Hassler, Novak, O'Connor, and Olsen all come from the Eurotech side.  So it was a true merger.  And they added longtime Minnesota middle infielder Chris Bauer.  

Chanticlear finished 32nd in the computer rankings, 28th in the points, was 12-16 in Conference and World play and 10-16 vs 'B' and above last year.  They were 4-5 in the 'A' division.

 

2018 pictures of Chanticlear Pizza

 


 

#20 SNI/Worsham/AllOut/ATWL/Easton (FL-A)

UT Scott Napierata
IF Aaron Sandoval
IF Patrick Foster
IF Scotty Langford
IF Jeff Roxby
IF/OF Steve Wilson
OF Seth Ricketson
OF Eddie Bolden
P/OF Dave Doolan
OF Jeff Bloomer
IF Brad Sheffield
IF Mike Smith
IF/P Kyler Kirkland
P/IF Shawn Jones
IF/OF Paul Green
OF Artie Barcelo
UT Dylan Davidson

Managers – Steve and Donna Hildebran
Sponsor – Sonny Worsham – Worsham Athletics
Sponsor – Scott Napierata – SNI
Sponsor – Curtis Day – All Out
Equipment – Brett Helmer – Easton
Uniforms – Greg Ramsey – ATWL

Scott Napierata sponsor of SNI and Sonny Worsham from Worsham Athletics combine with Curtis Day and All Out to form what is essentially a new Conference team with 6 of the players (Langford, Sheffield, Bloomer, Kirkland, Bolden, and Roxby) who played for TMade's 'AA/A' team a couple years ago.  They also added infielders Aaron Sandoval from JBL/Pauer/Tailgaters and Patrick Foster who had an All Conference year with Premier last year.  And they have the veteran Shawn Jones doing the pitching.  I don't think last years win loss records apply to this team with so many new faces.  They have an outside shot at finishing at the top of the 'A' division with the talent they have but I have put them 20th as we wait to see how the chemistry of this team works out.  But it should be fine.

 

Scotty Langford and Eddie Bolden

 


 

#21 Vivid/Killbombers/Easton (TX-A)

OF Zane Trammell
CF Matt Herrick
OF Robbie Balthrop
OF Brandon Cox
UT Justin Snider
P Kenny Turlington
SS Ty Herrick
MI Jason Trammell
2B Nick Santos
1B Steve Zemenak
P James Delagarza
3B Ryan Roppel
Tom Crump
C/EH – Jon Kilburn

Manager – David Trammell
Assistant – Sammy Cardona

2019 Schedule:
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
April 26-28 41st Cajun Classic
May 17-19 19th Texas Legends Major
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 14-16 37th Dudley
June 21-23 Sooner Invitational
July 5-7 Busch Classic
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Sponsor Jon Kilburn returns to the Conference with his Texas based 'A' team.  They should have a shot at qualifying for the Major World Series and have some new players as well as old returning players.  Third baseman Ryan Roppel returns after earning offensive MVP at the USSSA 'A' World with JBL/Tailgaters.  Steve Zemanek one of the best defensive 1st baseman returns after playing with Nightmare.  And the Trammell trio of Zane who played with Riot Sports, middle infielder Jason who has one of the better gloves in the game, and 2nd team all Conference manager David Trammell all have joined Vivid.

Vivid was 26th in the computer rankings a year ago but was in the .500 range against the 'AA', 'A', and 'B' divisions. 

Trammells, Zane, Jason, David

 


 

#22 Primetime/Evolution/F.A.I./Easton (GA-A)

IF/OF Aaron Jackson
MI Jerblonski Jennings
IF Donta Frazier
1B Chivas Clark
CF Kenny Hare
UT Jarvis Riggins
OF Lamarquis Blake
P Roderick Armor
OF Chris Little
IF Ira Brown
P Detorren Means
IF Jeremy Guess
OF Kaleb Wilson
IF Judson Austin
OF/IF Ronald Grace
OF Nekeyma Wright
OF/IF Anthony Mastrogiovanni
SS Jedon Matthews
IF Ty Mingle
EH/C Cedric Johnson
IF Jose Nunez
IF Earl Bryant

Sponsors – Easton Sports
Sponsor – Evolution
Sponsor – Florida Atlantic Iron
Manager – Tony Goodson
Coach – Lee Daniels
Coach – David Morrow
Coach – Dennis Davison
Coach – Everette Daniels
Stats – Randy Whitfield

2019 Schedule:
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 24-26 Kut4 Sports Atlanta Major
June 21-23 Sooner Invitational
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major

 

Primetime returns to the Conference 'A' division with manager Tony Goodson and player/sponsor Judson Austin bringing back a veteran core of players like Chivas Clark, Detorran Means, Nekeyma Wright, Jarvis Riggins, Earl Bryant, Donta Frazier and others.  Ira Brown returns from a leg injury.  And their defense will be led by pitcher Roderick Armour and infielder Jedon Matthews.  They also return Jerblonski Jennings who has played with them for many years in the past and outfielder Ken Hare who has found a home with Primetime the past few years.

Primetime finished 2018 ranked 24th in the Computer Rankings but the last few years have waited to the post season to get hot as they went to the final 4 of the 'AA' Worlds last year undefeated.  They were 18-20 in Conference and World tournament play and 12-20 vs 'B' and above teams.

 

Pitcher Roderick Armour and Ira Brown

 


 

#23 Sports Reach (KY-A)

C Shaun Ballard
OF Robert Blackburn
MI Jacob Clifton
OF Tony Ford
OF Robbie Fow
2B Josh Fryman
P Ben Gambill
3B Jason Hatley
UT Daniel Merck
SS Kaden Watson
P Chris Stamper
OF Zach Watts

Manager – Robby Speer

2019 Schedule:
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 24-26 Kut4 Sports Atlanta Major
June 7-9 Bash On the Chesapeake
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 9-11 Louisville Slugger/DeMarini Classic
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World

Sports Reach returns to the Conference for the 2nd year with manager Robby Speer and slugger Shaun Ballard leading the team.  They picked up former Conference batting champion Robert Blackburn and military standout Robert Fow.  They also grabbed some of the Briggs, Killmans, and Crunchtime players and added big Brian Mays from Baugh Ford to bolster the lineup

Sports Reach is a softball and sports ministry group and was 28th in the Conference computer rankings a year ago, 14-15 in Conference and world play, and 12-15 vs 'B' and above competition. 

  

Sports Reach during their first Conference season in Atlanta

 


 

#24 Tradesmen/Louisville Slugger/Spierrz/Hang Rite (NC-A)

IF Brandon Newton
IF/OF Dante Broome
P David Bare
IF Dustin Boothe
IF/P Dustin McLoughlin
UT Francois Henry
OF Jeff Andrews
OF Joe Visser
IF/P Joseph Roseli
UT Justin Pennell
IF Justin Robertson
UT Kenny Chavez
OF Kyle Hartz
IF Mitchell Downing
IF Reggie Barker
IF/OF Ronald Fryer
IF Tyler Wiles

Manager/Sponsor – Joe Visser
Manager – Reggie Barker
Manager – Francois Henry

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 26-28 Rose City Major by Smash It Sports
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Tradesmen and manager/sponsor/player Joe Visser returns for another Conference season.  They are based out of North Carolina now and their roster has a West/East/Canada flavor to it.  They still have Francois Henry, Justin Pennell, and Jeff Andrews who have played at Canadas top levels.  They return Reggie Barker and a few others from the 2018 team.  And they picked up former Killmans pitcher David Bare and a smattering of players from the southeast it appears to round out the roster.

Tradesmen was 39th in the computer rankings last year, 12-16 in Conference and World play, and 8-15 vs 'B' and above teams.  But they did pick up a lot of new players. 

  

Tradesmen had one of their better games against the Smash it Sports in Seattle last year

 


 

#25 B&B Softball (NC-A)

Brandon Belton
Matt Bunn
Eric Bunn
Shane Coston
Evan Jarman
Josh Rigney
Matt Lynn
Jess Maloney
CJ Jacinto
Josh Lewis
Lee Powers
Jeremy Garner
Joel Sanchez
Derek Knight
Cory Franklin
Justin Walker

Manager – Chris Alphin
Sponsor – Barry Bunn
Sponsor – Mike Cornell/Demarini

B&B Softball has been in and out of the Conference for a number of years and return with Manager Chris Alphin and Sponsor Barry Bunn.  They have the Bunn brothers and return players Cory Franklin, Justin Walker, and others.  They also have CJ Jacinto, Jess Maloney, and Evan Jarman who just won 'A' worlds with Rapid Fire.  The rest of their team seems to be made up of players from Briggs, Carolina Converters, and a few other teams from the Carolina area.  Lee Powers is listed on the roster but they don't know how much he will play.

 

CJ Jacinto and Jess Maloney

 


 

#26 MyAutoJack/DownTimeSports/Sonny’s (AZ-A)

Chad Erickson
Tim De Vito
Bryan Dezern
Lex Ramirez
Brian Faria
Timothy Martinez
Jose Flores
David Nowak
Michael Joseph
Jordan Mitchell
Brent Johnson
Mark Krueger
Zach Costa

Manager – Cholo Brown
Assistant Manager – Henry Diflorio
Sponsor Jack Estrada – MyAutoJack.Com
Sponsor Jon Kopperud – Tunie Sports
Sponsor – Sonny Pilcher – Sonny’s

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 24-26 Rocky Mountain Shootout
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 26-28 Rose City Major by Smash It Sports
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World

MyAutoJack.com who has played Conference tournaments for years, finally joins the Conference with a mostly western schedule (except for the HOF Dual).  They picked up Sonny's veterans Alexis Ramirez and Brian Faria, Monsta slugger Tim Martinez, veteran hitters David Nowak and Jose Flores, and then a contingent of the Product Factory players Brian Dezern, Tim Devito, and Chad Erickson.  This team could definitely finish 10 spots higher or lower depending how they come together but will probably struggle in the points with that regional schedule unless they can win one. 

 

Tim Martinez and Brian Faria

 


 

#27 Source1/Alpha Source/Easton (AZ-A)

Isaac Gonzalez
Preston Burrell
Orlando Cano
J.R. Gonzales
Beau Polvorosa
Ruben Rivas
Markie Vigil
Kyle Harless
AJ Taitano
Michael Tarwater
Gilbert Castro
Kyle Smoot
Bubba Harville
Johnny Perchak
Nick Day

Manager – Joese Rivas, Jr.
Assistant Manager – George Fierro

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
June 14-16 37th Dudley
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 26-28 Rose City Major by Smash It Sports
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World

Last years SLM group is back as the Source1 'A' team out of Arizona.  They have players from SLM, Tunies, infielder Isaac Gonzalez who last played with Killbombers, 3rd baseman Orlando Cano who started one year with Racks, Michael Tarwater who is one of the better middle infielders in the west for many years now, and looks like they grabbed former Bay Area Legends outfielder Bubba Harville.  A new group.  We will have to see how they stack up to Conference 'A' teams in a few weeks in Vegas!  In hindsight I probably have this team ranked too high…sorry.  Feel free to use as bulletin board material.  They were 4-12 vs 'B' and higher last year and 0-2 at 'A' Worlds.

  

Michael Tarwater and Isaac Gonzalez

 


 

#28 MPT Rentals/EVO9X/Miken/Worth (NJ-A)

Alex Martinez
Anthony Dominick
Cody Collins
Daniel Dunn
Dylan Shupe
John Slootmaker
Johnathan Dombrowski
Jose Perez
Josh Haglund
Justin Lutheran
Mark Carucci
Mike Mallory
Mike Wilson
Pedro Sanchez
Robert McMinn
Sean Ulmer
Woodrow Darling
Zack Smith

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 24-26 Kut4 Sports Atlanta Major
June 7-9 Bash On the Chesapeake
June 21-23 Sooner Invitational
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
August 9-11 Louisville Slugger/DeMarini Classic

Mark Curruci returns to the Conference after a partial Conference season a few years back.  He grabbed a few players from La Famiglia like middle infielder Pedro Sanchez, Cody Collins, and Justin Lutheran.  A trio from Pauer/Tailgaters in pitcher John Dombrowski, Mike Mallory, and Anthony Dominick.  They also have players from Chosen and other teams.  An interesting mix that could easily finish 10 spots higher in the final rankings or 5 spots lower.  I particularly like the defense up the middle with Sanchez and pitchers Dombrowski and Josh Haglund.

 

Pedro Sanchez and Cody Collins had a great post season for LaFamiglia last year

 


 

#29 Regulators (CO-A)

Kevin Basinger
Shea Bogardus
Ray Camacho
Greg Crowe
Mark Deering
Anthony Eschete
Adam Ferguson
Jimmy Runkle
Mel Shingleton
Tony Shockley
Jake Stock
Patrick Trembley
Mike Vavra
Dustin Wager
Travis Wollison

Sponsor – HomeBridge Financial
Sponsor – Remax Reg
Sponsor – Locker Room Sports
Sponsor – Wager Ferguson Group
Sponsor – JR Fitness

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 3-5 Frank Webb Memorial
May 24-26 Rocky Mountain Shootout
June 14-16 37th Dudley
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 26-28 Rose City Major by Smash It Sports
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World

Dustin Wager has put together a team that competed at the upper level in 2018 and joins the Conference this year from Colorado.  They have a few guys with Conference experience like Tony Shockley and Travis Wollison among others.  They were 1-2 at 'A' Worlds a year ago and 7-2 vs 'B' teams last season.

 

Regulators from last summer 2018

 


 

#30 Headlines Sportswear/Titans Truckin/AMR/CSB (OH-A)

IF Tyler Brake
OF Brad Bruns
OF Zac Busam
P/IF Josh Cummins
C/AH Zach Dillman
IF Joe Engle
UT Steve Fluarty
IF Morgan McIntire
P/IF David Paddock
IF Nelson Price
OF Ryan Sanders
UT Nick Seibert
OF Brian Spenn
OF Matt Tucker
IF Chad Ulogar
IF Ike Worlow

Manager – Andy Larkins
Associate Manager – Jason Kachner
Assistant Manager – Todd Sledge
Assistant Manager – Ryan Neff
Assistant Manager – Tom Kelly

Headlines/Titan just won the Bash 4 Cash in Cincinnati

Two Ohio 'B' teams Headlines Sportswear and Titan Truckin combine to form an Ohio 'A' team under the leadership of manager Andy Larkins.  They also have Brad Bruns from Premier and Josh Cummins from Sports Reach.  Both Headlines and Titan Truckin had success at the USSSA 'B' Worlds a year ago.

   

Brad Bruns and Ike Worlow

 


 

#31 Competitive Edge/C&R Equipment/Zip’d Threads (FL-A)

Jason Arraiol
Adam Barberi
Marc Bergerstock
Ray Drayton
Bryan Houston
Cory Koger
Eric Kroll
Ryan McCrory
Sean Miller
Tristan Montgomery
Jeremy Moore
Mark Patterson
Chad Roberts
Wesley Thompson
Jon Weibel
Craig Rodriguez

Coach/Manager:  Mark Patterson
Mark Patterson/Ray Drayton – Competitive Edge
Chad Roberts – C&R Equipment
Russell Christoff – Zip’d Threads

2019 Schedule:
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
April 26-28 41st Cajun Classic
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
May 24-26 Kut4 Sports Atlanta Major
June 14-16 37th Dudley
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
August 9-11 Louisville Slugger/DeMarini Classic
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World
September 14-15 USSSA 'AA' World
September 18-22 USSSA Major World Series

Competitive Edge is a new Conference team from the panhandle of Florida run by Mark Patterson.  Mark has an interesting mix of his C players from past teams and a flavor of northeast players like Jason Arraiol, Cory Coger, and Johnathan Weibel from Beloli's, and a few Conference veterans like Ryan McCrory from Baugh Ford, Adam Barberi from Worsham, and Craig Rodriguez who played one year with Riot Sports.  They also have a few guys from the successful Kut4Sports 'B' team last year.

This team will struggle as they get used to the speed of Conference play and learn what it takes to win games there. 

   

Craig Rodriguez and Ryan McCrory are expected to provide a lot of the left handed hitting for CE

 


 

Teams that Registered 'B'

 

#32 Cheap Suits/ Republic Realty/ CDZ Apparel (CA-B)

Scotty Costa
Mateo Pacheco
Nick Larson
Devon Denholm
Wes Taylor
Craig Lovelady
Jacob Valdez
Justin Charles
Vince Gutierrez
Kenny Bergmann
Danny Fontaine
Floyd Seabron
Jack Richardson
Anthony Salsedo

Manager – Sonny Aguilera
Coach – Donald Ybarreche

Sponsors:
Sonny Aguilera Sales
Republic Realty
CDZ Apparel

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 17-19 19th Texas Legends Major
June 14-16 37th Dudley
June 27-30 Easton Seattle Dual
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 26-28 Rose City Major by Smash It Sports
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World
USSSA 'B' World

Cheap Suits returns with sponsor Sonny Aguilera for their 2nd Conference season.  Looks like they return a core of players from 2018 and their sophomore season in the Conference should be better.  Last year they ran into Major teams 4 times.

Cheap Suits was 12-16 in Conference and World play last year, they won the Cinco De Maya non conference event and went on a nice run at the Seattle Dual #2 unlimited home run tournament last year when they went 4-2 and finished 4th ahead of all of the 'AA' and 'A' teams.  They did go 0-2 last year at 'B' Worlds.

  

Cheap Suits playing in Columbus, Ohio last year

 


 

#33 L&S Glass/GTS/Worth (CA-B)

Xavier Trujillo
Juan Rodriguez
John Brown
Joshua Robinson
Hunter Ramirez
Ryan Ledeit
Tyler Espland
Mike Lopez
Anthony Acevedo III
Joey Smith
Jeremy Green
George Hamm
Rich Ledeit
Brian Fong

Sponsor – Rich Ledeit – L&S Glass
Sponsor – Game Time Sports GTS
Sponsor – Jason Kendrick – Worth

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
May 17-19 19th Texas Legends Major
July 26-28 Rose City Major by Smash It Sports
USSSA 'B' World

L&S Glass and sponsor/player Rich Ledeit return for the 3rd year.  Looks like they are giving some younger players a shot to go with their new veteran pitcher John Brown from Bay Area Legends, free agent Hunter Ramirez from Stars, and they return veterans like Joey Smith, George Hamm, and shortstop Brian Fong who was one of the leagues leading hitters last year.  They also have Tyler Espland who has played with northern California Conference teams for many years roaming the outfield.  Remember a few of these guys played on the L&S Glass team that were upset winners at the USA Softball 'B' Nationals in 2017.

L&S Glass was 11-14 in Conference and World play last year but an impressive 4-4 vs the 'A' division.

 

Outfielder Tyler Espland and Infielder Brian Fong for L&S Glass

 


 

#34 Infamous/Salt Riot/Toxic Masculinity (CO-B)

P Corey Miller
IF Jon Labor
IF Justin Watkins
MI Oliver Henninger
IF Gage Owsley
IF Nathaniel Hutchins
IF Vince Gillies
IF Josh Chevalier
IF Jeff Rowe
IF/OF Connor Gardiner
OF Johnathon Sierra
OF Trevor Plautz
OF Chris Bernquist
3B Jaedon Fullerton
P Jerry Romero
P Bryan Pruitt

Manager – Bryan Pruitt
Book – Jazmyne Pruitt
Sponsor – Bryan Pruitt – Denver Build Company
Sponsor – David Bowser – Listings.com
Sponsor – SaltRiot.com Aparel

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 5-7 13th Space City Classic
May 3-5 Frank Webb Memorial
May 17-19 19th Texas Legends Major
May 24-26 Rocky Mountain Shootout
June 14-16 37th Dudley
August 30 – Sept 1 USSSA 'A' World
USSSA 'B' World

Infamous sponsor Bryan Pruitt returns for his 2nd year in the Conference.  Looks like they picked up some players from Regulators, L&S Glass, and Oliver Henninger from Arizona.  Johnathon Sierra was one of the 'A' and below league leaders last year in onbase percentage.

Infamous was 7-14 in Conference and World play last year but 4-6 vs the 'A' division.


 


 

#35 TRU Sports/Selling Virginia/Easton/CA Gear (VA-B)

00-IF Tae Miles
1-IF Keon Gaskins
2-C/EH Joe Kidwell
3-IF Devan Hill
5-IF/OF Corey Jones
6-OF Chris Idip
7-P/IF Ricardo Castillo
9-IF Nick Smith
10-OF Cory Jones
11-IF Mike Garcia
12-OF Keandre Mcgee
13-P Billy Bosley
17-OF Rob Banks
20 C/EH Thomas Herbert
21-IF Caleb Leatherwood
23-C/EH Marieo Foster
24-IF Leon Bass
27-IF Reggie Smith
38-IF Phillip Chapman
40-P Angelo Tyler

Manager – Reggie Smith
Coach – Bob Smith
Stats – Patrice Smith

2019 Schedule:
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 10-12 Pure Sports Battle at the Beach
June 7-9 Bash On the Chesapeake
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 9-11 Louisville Slugger/DeMarini Classic

Tru Sports is a new Conference team from Virginia built by Reggie Smith.  The team returns a core of its Tru 'C' team from 2018 and then fills out the roster with players from Briggs, Carolina Converters, Marieo Foster who has played in the Conference, and Rapid Fire center fielder Chris Idip.  I didn't have this team in the original 'B' rankings as I thought they were going to try and play 'A'.   

Tre was 8-5 vs 'B' teams last year and went 1-2 at the USSSA 'B' Worlds.

   

Chris Idip and Marieo Foster

 


 

#36 Smith Softball/CDZ Apparel (CA-B)

Demario Boyd
Brian Lipman
Michael Miller Jr.
Reid Ramirez
Jake Sisco
Brian Slaven
Dameon Smith
Dan Smith IV
Adam Smylie
Jordan Thompson
Mark Vega Jr.
Clif Williamson

2019 Schedule:
March 29-31 9th Sin City Major
April 26-28 41st Cajun Classic
May 24-26 Rocky Mountain Shootout
June 27-30 Seattle Dual
July 26-28 Rose City Major by Smash It Sports
USSSA 'B' World

A new Conference team from California.  They look young and are coming up from the C/D ranks.  Looks like they grabbed Bay Area infielder Dameon Smith, longtime Conference player Clif Williamson, and some veteran Conference power in Brian Lipman and Adam Smylie.

 

Brian Lipman and Adam Smylie will power a young Smith Softball/CDZ Apparel team

 


 

#37 Hdlns/Svc/Miken (OH-B)

Manager: Bill Gloyeske
Head Coach/Player: Greg Riddell

Kasey Bishop
Jacob Boggess
Tony Brown
Sam Burke
Nick Burrus
Joshua Greer
Ryan Johns
Michael Kelley
Robbie Lyday
Jason Molnar
Ryan Mullen
Clay Paul
Josh Payton
David Romero
Shaun Scheidler
Lee Spezia
Cody Timosko

2019 Schedule:
April 11-14 Hall of Fame Classic Dual
May 3-5 Frank Webb Memorial
May 31 – June 2 Windy City Classic
July 12-14 Smoky Mountain Classic
July 19-21 20th Cincy Major
August 2-4 7th Columbus B.A.T.S. Major
August 16-18 GSL 'A' World
GSL 'B' World
USSSA 'B' World

This team entered the Conference on March 19th and we don't know much about them so they get to be ranked last.  Sorry.  Clay Paul and Josh Greer played with TG Brand some over the years and Jacob Boggess is a player that deserves a Conference shot.  They return a core of players from the SVC 'C' team last year and picked up players from Titans and T&W.  

This team was 11-9 in 'C' last year and 1-2 at Worlds.  They did win 2 tournaments in Ohio.

 


 

Past Conference Team Totals by Year:

2018 Conference Make Up (40 teams):
3 Major Teams
Approximately 8 'AA' Teams
Approximately 17 'A' Teams
Approximately 12 'B' Teams

2017 Conference Make Up (39 teams):
 6 Major Teams
12 'AA' Teams
12 'A' Teams
  9 'B' Teams

2016 Conference Make Up (40 teams):
 5 Major Teams
11 'AA' Teams
12 'A' Teams
12 'B' Teams

2015 Conference Make Up (46 teams):
 6 Major Teams
12 'A' Teams
20 'B' Teams
 8 'C' Teams

2014 Conference Make Up (53 teams):
 4 Major Teams
 9 'A' Teams
23 'B' Teams
17 'C' Teams

2013 Conference Make Up (47 teams):
 4 Major Teams
 8 'A' Teams
20 'B' Teams
15 'C' Teams

2012 Conference Make Up (41 teams):
 4 Major Teams
 9 'A' Teams
21 'B' Teams
 7 'C' Teams

2011 Conference Make Up (38 teams):
 4 Major Teams
10 'A' Teams
20 'B' Teams
 4 'C' Teams

2010 Conference Make Up (34 teams):
 2 Major Teams
11 'A' Teams
15 'B' Teams
 5 'C' Teams
 1 'D' Team

 

One response to “FINAL SoftballCenter 2019 Pre-Season Rankings!”

  1. A fan says:

    That myautojack has been really impressive there last five tournament show they could play with the big boys

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