The SJB Braves varsity boys baseball team opened their season with a huge 15-3 victory over the Cardinal Newman Cardinals April 23.

Eric Johnson and Shane Southall both had a big day for the Braves with each player going 3 for 4 and Johnson batting in 3 RBI.

It was a great beginning to what looks like a very promising season for the Braves.

"I was elated with the team's performance" stated SJB head coach Matt Fortuna. "We have a great mix of players this year. Many of our core players have returned and we also have a good number of first year players."

Braves players worked on their hitting, pitching and fielding indoors between February and April . After three long indoor months, the squad was geared up and ready to play when they finally headed outdoors to take on the Cardinals and begin the season on a positive note.

Key players

The 2007/2008 team will be expecting big things from some key players.

Anthony Rizquez is a superb short-stop with smooth hands and Dean Irvine will be looking to log significant innings for the Braves.

Eric Johnson and Shane Southall will also be significant to the team's success.

"They will both be carrying the load" said Fortuna, "We need them to play well in order for us to be successful."

With a deep pitching staff the team will look to be competitive throughout the season.

"This year's team will be in the championship game, anything less than that will be failure for us," Fortuna said."

The Braves are focussing on developing younger players this year with the hope it will help them in future years.

The Braves were slated to take on the Cathedral Gaels April 28th Mohawk Sports Park and then host the Bishop Ryan Celtics April 30.

The results were unavailable at press time.