EAST COBB 
YANKEES

BASEBALL
2008

Collegiate notes

Michael Demperio is now at UGA, teaming with former Yankee teammates Gordon Beckham and Ryan Piesel in the UGA infield.  Beckham is expected to be a high pick in this years MLB draft, as is former Yankee ace Trevor Holder.  Dean Weaver is also expected to be in the UGA starting rotation this season.

Eddie Burns returned to Georgia Tech rather than signing with the Atlanta Braves.  He and Chris Hicks will be part of Tech's starting rotation.

Brandon May, a sophmore who started last season as a freshman at second base for Alabama, is one of seven returning starters for Bama.

Brian Pierce, a junior, heads up Georgia Southern's infield.  Pierce has been a starter since his freshman year.
AJ Gilbert, who has been sidetracked by several injuries, is back on the mound throwing and hopefully headed for a healthy season for the big lefty.

Sam Allen's rehab has gone great and he's back on the mound throwing.  He may be strong enough to pitch by mid to late season at Duke.

Kyle Heckathorn and Ryan Rodebaugh give Kennesaw State a couple of big arms this year, with Heckathorn again slated to be the ace of the staff.

Danny Petro earned All-Freshman team honors last season in the conference at ETSU.  ETSU is coached by former Yankee Tony Skole.

Mark Fleury (Soph., UNC) should see increased time behind the plate this season for UNC.  North Carolina is ranked #2 in most preseason polls.