I expect to see progress with next year's team. There was huge turnover following Elvis's first season. The new guys look more athletic on paper. We should see faster outfielders, quicker infielders, and a deeper pitching staff.
The 2010 Braves will miss Scahill on the mound, but the Cooper kid carries similar measurables. They will also miss Fitzgerald's contribution at SS. Elliott will offset Fitzgerald's graduation if he comes back as strong as expected. Mitidiero was also pretty good, but he was not a natural center fielder. The new guys will definitely offer a defensive improvement in the outfield.
I am hesitant to state expectations because it is hard to know the level of the incoming recruits until you actually see them in the heat of battle. Lots of kids dominate against weaker high school competition. Only some of those guys step up and deliver at the next level. One of my biggest questions relates to leadership. Who will lead the new group?
If the recruits are as good as advertised, Bradley should significantly rebound on the diamond next Spring. Keep in mind that Wichita State will be loaded next year. Missouri State, Indiana State, and Creighton won't be far behind. It is a tough league, but Elvis signed what appears to be a banner group. We all hope for great things in 2010, but 2011 might be the year the team really delivers.
I agree more people will turn out if the team wins. It also helps to have some nice weather and a well-organized marketing plan. Nobody knows what God will do with the weather. And I don't know what they have planned to market the 2010 baseball team. Whatever it is, let's hope it works.