March 23, 2010
Go Duluth Schools

Young Hunters could turn some heads this spring
By Howie Hanson

Second-year Duluth Denfeld baseball coach Pat Bergquist is understandably optimistic for the 2010 season.

“We return a solid core of players and are heavy at the junior level,” said Bergquist, a former Hunters and professional outfielder who’s assisted by ex-Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Indians pitcher Jerry Ujdur.

Jordan Verry is the ace of the Hunters’ pitching staff, and Travis Madgzas and Aaron Hinnenkamp are top positional players who led the club in hits and batting average a year ago.

“I also expect a lot more from Jordan Buetow, who saw considerable time as a freshman, and it appears that John Fontaine will be a very versatile player who possesses speed, strength and an arm that is ready for collegiate baseball,” said Bergquist. “Once he gains confidence, the sky is the limit for John.”

Bergquist said the program is ready to take another step to become one of the elite teams in the area.

“Unlike last season, we are very familiar with what each player can provide and we appear to have much more depth at each position,” he said. “Because of the depth, we are very excited as this will allow for great competition which should translate into better all around play.

“Our expectations are much higher in our second year and we fully expect to compete with the best teams in our area. Of course, it is now up to the kids to show what they can do. Many of our kids participated in off season voluntary workouts, something that has not taken place in many years at Denfeld.”

Denfeld opened camp Monday with 46 players, and the Hunters will make final cuts after today’s workout, Bergquist said.

Denfeld opens against Eveleth April 7 at the Metrodome.