Posted: June 16, 2009

One would think that major graduation losses in the last few years, including that of back-to-back NOW Newspapers Players of the Year Doug Dekoning (2007) and Alex Erdmann (2008), would cast a pall over the camp of the Menomonee Falls baseball team.

But that has not been the case, as evidenced before the 3-1 victory over border rival Hamilton on June 10.

The Indians have started 11-2 and improved their win streak to four with the victory over Hamilton. Falls then added a 10-1 victory over non-conference opponent Shorewood on June 11, when Adam Rubatt and Nick Held combined on a three-hitter.

And Indians coach Pat Hansen has not had three key members of his team for a major chunk of the early season, either. Max Poeske, Derek Schmidt and Cole Myhra were busy helping the Falls boys track team to a WIAA state runner-up finish.

"What we have out here are a lot of athletes," Hansen said. "Athletes who have been in clutch situations. Basketball sectionals, track state meets. Guys who have been in big spots before. It gives us depth. I'm very comfortable reaching down the bench and putting someone on the field."

The Indians are coming off a 28-11 season, which included a WIAA State Tournament berth.

Key veterans include senior infielders Donny Matovich and Hunter Cummens, senior outfielder/pitchers Schmidt and Alex Sutherland and senior utility player Adam Bigus, who is coming off an injury.

Falls does have a lot of people back from last year who threw innings, but the only one with serious experience in Greater Metro Conference play is junior Ben Burns, who threw a nine-strikeout, two-hit complete game victory over the Chargers on June 10.

A lot of juniors will see playing time this year. They include Myhra (outfield), Burns and Poeske (catcher); second baseman Carter Ypma, outfielder/pitcher Rubatt, infielder/pitchers Held and Ryan Romens, outfielder Drew Menne and infielder Ryan Furrer. Sophomore Joe Sanicola is starting at first base.

Hansen has been pleased with the Indians' work in non-conference play (9-0 so far), which includes a sweep in the Classic 8/Greater Metro Classic June 5 and 6, when they beat Kettle Moraine, Mukwonago and Pius XI in succession.

"The thing with the conference though this year is, is that we have so much parity, you really have to bring your 'A' game every night," Hansen said.

Falls will make a swing through the southern portion of the GMC this week. That included a game at powerful Oak Creek on June 16 and then a visit to Muskego today at 5:30 p.m.

Falls will take part in the South Milwaukee Wood Bat Tournament on Saturday and then will host West Allis Hale in a 5:30 p.m. GMC game on Monday.