Hempfield East Legion looking to keep tradition going

Those searching for a team that could challenge for the Westmoreland County American League baseball title should look no further than returning District 31 America Legion and Region 7 champion Hempfield East.

Even though Hempfield East graduated key players such as Matt Wicker, Andrew Rosenberg, Noah Sweeney, Shane Stuchell, Dom Carrera and Reed Hipps, it brings back plenty of talent.

Hempfield East returns eight players from the squad that became the first county team to advance past the state tournament to the Great Lakes Regional in Illinois.

Because of the coronavirus, Legion baseball across the country was canceled. But District 31 president and Region 7 director Jason Bush put together the league, which features nine Legion programs from District 31, to play this summer.

Without a high school season, many players were eager to get back on the field.

Hempfield East coach Scott Smith met with the team for the first time Sunday, and he said he is excited by what he sees, especially from the young players Hempfield baseball coach Tim Buzzard sent his way.

“We probably are six to seven pitchers deep,” Smith said. “I’m eager to see how we blend together. We have a good returning group that should provide us with good leadership.”

There are five 19-year-olds on the 20-man roster. They are first baseman Reid Amundson, catcher John Malinak, shortstop/outfielder Dajauhn Hertzog, third baseman Hunter Eperesi and pitcher Lance Daley. Also back are second baseman Jack McBride, third baseman/outfielder Zach O’Bryan and first baseman/pitcher Reno Brasili.

“We have a good nucleus,” Smith said. “They’re excited and ready to roll.”

Smith is looking for a practice field with Pitt-Greensburg and Hempfield High School currently off limits. Hempfield East is scheduled to play at Hempfield Park, which includes three night games.

Because Smith hasn’t seen some of the young players, he is counting on a scouting report from Buzzard.

Some players who caught Smith’s attention are pitcher Ryan Firmstone, outfielder Reese Woodley, pitcher Hunter Smiles, catcher Jacob Julian, pitcher Brandon Coughlin, outfielder Shane Evans and infielder Grayson Willis.

Others on the roster are catcher Hayden Teska, infielder Zach David, shortstop Robbie Henry, outfielder Ethan Wilson and catcher Robbie Seigenfust.

“Tim hooked me up,” Smith said. “I hope the young guys learn a lot from the leaders. We want to keep the Hempfield East tradition going.”

Smith feels team speed and especially the speed in the outfield called the “No Fly Zone” continues with Hertzog and Woodley.

“We’re just excited to play baseball this summer,” Smith said. “My hat’s off to Jason for putting things together. He did an unreal job.”

The league gets underway Saturday.