“I’m not one to swing at the first pitch” Simpson said, “but I had a good round of batting practice and I came out here to hit the baseball so I thought ‘if I get a fastball early, let’s try to do something with it.”
Patience paid off for Simpson in the ensuing games on June 20 and June 22. He finished 0-for-6 out of the leadoff spot, but drew three walks both nights and scored a combined five runs.
Michael O’Hara from Santa Clara is also off to a blazing start at the plate. He reached base safely in each of his first five games with the AppleSox, including recording two multi-hit efforts in his first three games.
O’Hara put on a show in each of his first three games with the AppleSox and it began with a three-hit night in his debut on June 18. Though he “only” collected one hit the next night, O’Hara swiped three bags that evening and then stole another base on the 20th while also recording his second multi-hit game in three days. He drew a combined three walks in the first two games of the road trip against Cowlitz to reach base safely in each of his first five games with the AppleSox.
The newcomers are still working to get to know their new teammates but many, including Simpson have fit right immediately.
“It’s a little different but I’m pretty good at getting along with others,” Simpson said. “I’m not too shy of a person so it makes that side a little easier. It’s nice to meet new people and hopefully I’ll get to play against some of them in the spring.”
Starting at home and getting used to Wenatchee helped them out, but they especially benefited from the AppleSox long road trip during the penultimate week of June. The time away from the field really helps players get to know each other when they aren’t trying to secure another victory.
“The road trips are where you really bond with guys,” Simpson said. “Being on the bus and in hotels is where you really get to know them and build friendships.”
Late June to mid-July is the best time for roster depth in the summer baseball season. Most teams are out of college postseason tournaments and not enough players are at the point of usage in the summer that they have to be shut down just yet.
The AppleSox know that their depth extends from beyond just four catchers. The infield is extremely versatile. Bethancourt can play first and third base while middle infielders Garrett Cutting, Adam Grob and Jackson Van De Brake can all play second base, shortstop, and third base. Simpson is comfortable at shortstop and second base. Even Rece Stapp was asked to move from second base to first base on June 22. Luc Stuka (first base) and Zach Toglia (third base) are the only infielders who have played just one position.
The outfield is just as crowded if not more-so. Dakota Duffalo has played at all three positions, O’Hara has appeared in right field and center field and Aidan Selfridge has appeared at both corner positions. Enzo Apodaca is locked in as the regular centerfielder while Payton Flynn has also seen action in left field.
Head Coach Ian Sanderson has more than enough depth all around. Now, it’s about figuring out who will start at each position and lock in regular playing time for the rest of the summer.
