The Cougars have high expectations for 2010. The 2009 Cougars finished the regular season 20-7, finished 2nd in Conference Indiana, and won their 3rd straight Sectional title. Bloomington North in 2010 will feature strong contributions from a talented senior class and experienced underclassmen. North will have to overcome the loss of some key players from last year. Pitchers Jim Hurt (6-2, 62 K’s, 48 2/3 IP) (University of Dayton) and Casey Smith (8-2, 44 K’s, 43 IP) (Indiana University) will be sorely missed as well as two outfielders Matt Bowman (.250) and Jake Owens (.286). The Cougars should still have strong pitching lead by Senior Bryce Brahaum (2-2, 25 1/3 IP), Juniors Clint Jones (2-1, 32 1/3 IP), Carlos Gould (12 IP), and Dylan Pratt (2-0, 18 IP). Help on the mound can also come from Sophomores Michael Oliphant and Tyler Hurt. Defensively the Cougars should be strong. Competition in the outfield will consist of Seniors Ryan Heeb (.404), Bryce Brahaum, Bryce Richardson, and Juniors Dylan Pratt (.242), Gavin Funkhouser, and others. The infield will be lead by Seniors Zach Collier (.395), Alex Guevara, and Erik Pearson. Juniors to contribute will be Carlos Gould (.277) and Clint Jones (.316). The catching duties will be handled by Senior and 3 year starter Stephen Bartlett (.333). Defensive help could also come from Sophomores Michael Oliphant and Tyler Hurt. Offensively the Cougars again look to be on the attack. North returns 4 hitters that hit over .300 last year. The Cougars will blend solid contact hitting, speed, and good power to produce a potent offense. The Cougars are looking forward to 2010. They have a solid team and are excited about competing in always tough Conference Indiana and the postseason.