PREP SOFTBALL 1992: GARDEN GROVE LEAGUE

La Quinta

1991 RECORDS: OVERALL: 8-12 LEAGUE: 7-7

COACH: RECORD AT SCHOOL Nancy Gipson: 20-22

RETURNING STARTERS YR. POS. B-T Shawnay Aguilera Jr. SS R-R Jennifer Boston Jr. C R-R Teresa Pinkerton Jr. P R-R

OTHER TOP RETURNERS: None

TOP NEWCOMERS YR. POS. B-T Vanessa Borboa Fr. 1B-P R-R Amy Tanner Fr. 2B-OF R-R

OUTLOOK

Gipson, in her third year with the Aztecs, is comfortable with her team except for the outfield. “We have a problem there right now,” Gipson said. “I just haven’t figured out who’s going to play there.” La Quinta lost practically its entire 1991 outfield to graduation, so Gipson continues the search for suitable replacements. And with only three returners, there’s not much experienced personnel to draw from. But she is sure of where some of those key returners will be stationed. Boston (.222 batting average last season) is back behind the plate after missing most of last season because of a shoulder injury. “She’s one of our power hitters and she’s got a great arm,” Gipson said. Borboa, who will bat clean-up, will also be counted on for power. Aguilera, a shortstop with excellent range, returns to solidify the infield. And Pinkerton will handle the crucial pitching duties, with Borboa as back-up. “As far as pitching and offense, we should be OK,” Gipson said. “Teresa is throwing faster and has better control than last year.” The Aztecs finished in a three-way tie for third place in league last season and missed the playoffs, but Gipson anticipates the team will battle for a playoff spot this year. “I plan to be in the top three in league and go to CIF,” Gipson said.