2004 Boys of Spring
Chima Nwankwo
Pendulum Staff
After a disappointing playoff loss to Burton last year and the loss of
several marquee players, the Galileo Varsity baseball team seems primed
for success in 2004. While losing several all-city caliber players to
graduation last year seems to have hurt the Lions chances of repeating
last year’s remarkable 11-4 record, the current team seems more
capable than ever of matching the feat. The team is laden with upper classmen
and their baseball experience should propel the team forward. Here are
several players who will spearhead Galileo’s championship drive:
Sr. Reggie Fuller aka “Playmaker” (P-OF) – The multi-talented
player hopes to improve upon last year’s all-city first team selection
by being named “AAA Player of the Year.” Fuller, a pitcher
and outfielder, is definitely up to the task as he combines both offense
and defense in one remarkable package. He is definitely the most versatile
player on the squad and look for him to put up big numbers in his senior
year if he can successfully check his temper, which can flare up within
a matter of seconds.
Sr. Prashan Patel (P)– The 2003 all-city second team pitcher is
back to help the Lions on their quest. The senior is an imposing presence
on the mound and is not afraid to go against opposing batters. He is definitely
a critical piece of the puzzle and he will be instrumental in Galileo’s
success this year.
Sr. Jesus Garcia (P) – Don’t be fooled by his slight frame,
this is one damn good baseball player. After receiving all-city “honorable
mention” honors last year, you can count on him to crack the all-city
first team in 2004. Alex is the consummate teammate and he does all the
little things to help the team win. He is arguably the most reliable player
on the team.
Sr. Daniel Mullens aka “The Newest High-Lite” (OF) –
The emergence of Daniel Mullens might be the extra push needed for the
Lions to scale the playoff hump. The football star is arguably the fastest
on the team and you can count on him to rack up steals all season. However,
not only is Daniel a speed demon, but he also hits the ball with ferocious
power. With one swing, he can turn the tide of the game. His imposing
6’1’’, 200-pound frame should strike fear in the hearts
of pitchers across the league.
Jesus Garcia put it best when he said, “It’s going to be
a good season. We will make the playoffs and hopefully the championship
game. We got our pitching back, so we’re ready to roll.” Coach
Don Papa also shared this optimism, “With consistent catching and
with the addition of a few more players, we can go very far this year.”
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