By BUTCH HARMON
In football, success is many times dictated by the quarterback. In basketball, the point guard is often the glue that bonds a team together. Baseball’s version of a point guard or quarterback can be found behind the plate. The value of a good catcher cannot be underestimated in high school baseball.
The Rockford Rams, the defending Division 1 state baseball champions, bring back one of the premier catchers in not only the state, but also the country, in senior Tony DiLeo. A three-year starter who is headed to Eastern Michigan University next season, DiLeo is recognized as one of the top catchers in the high school ranks and is a key returnee for the Rams, who come into the season ranked No. 1 in the state in Division 1.
“It’s said that a pitcher is only as good as his catcher,” coach Ian Hearne said. “We are fortunate to have two real good catchers to work with our pitchers. It definitely helps us out. With Tony and Brent Showers we have two outstanding catchers. Tony is in his third year as our starting catcher, and even from his first year as a starter he has been very good. He’s always been a good receiver. He is a real good catch and throw guy as well as being strong offensively.”
DiLeo was named a pre-season All-American by Lousville Slugger after hitting .413 for the Rams last season, and he has his best baseball ahead of him.
“Tony hasn’t reached his ceiling yet,” Hearne said. “He’s an outstanding high school player, and he is going to be real good in college as well.”
Having a catcher with DiLeo’s skills is a huge benefit for a Rockford team that graduated the core of its pitching staff.
“We don’t have a lot of varsity experience with our pitching staff,” Hearne said. “They are experienced pitchers, they just don’t have a lot of varsity experience.”
Sophomore Brent Showers and senior Ian Stankus head up Rockford’s rotation. Showers was a designated hitter on last year’s state-title team and also saw time at catcher when DiLeo missed the district tournament with an injury. Senior Shain Showers, Rockford’s starting shortstop who is headed to the University of Evansville, will also see time on the mound, along with Max Crimp, Nick Street, Reid Kelley, and Alex Hertel.
Rockford’s pitchers will receive plenty of support from a high octane offense. Senior Drew Farmer, who is headed to Western Michigan University, hit .500 last season and stole 21 bases. Kory Young, Shain Showers, DiLeo, and Stankus are other key cogs in the Ram offense.
Rockford opened the season by winning eight of its first 10 games, including its first four OK Red Conference games.
“We’re trying to keep everything in perspective,” Hearne said. “Our main focus is that we have to improve. We are working super hard in the beginning and focusing on the details so that we can peak at the end.”