Epp Announces Opening Day Starter

Yesterday Ryley Rebels Manager Corey Epp announced that RHP Dylan Solberg will be given the ball on opening day.

“He came into camp in shape and has worked hard throughout the spring, so I can’t think of anyone else who deserves it more” says Epp.

Epp also added that Solberg be will the staff ace as the season progresses and the Rebels may use a three man rotation in the season. LHP Darcy Grandberg and RHP Shane Meturnec are expected to round out the rotation, at least at the start of the season. RHP Curt Stensrude may contribute to the pitching staff as the season progresses, “Curt’s not sure how much he can pitch at the start however we may use him in relieve and hopefully he’ll be ready to start come playoffs” says Epp.

The pitching staff will be controlled by young catcher Jon Lehman who brings his catching experience to the Rebels. “Jon will probably get most of the innings behind the plate” adds Epp. “Kyle (Reinholdt), Matt (Starky) and Curt (Stensrude) could also catch but probably not for long as the all have the same problem, out of shape and bad knees”. Lehman has been compared to a young Jason Kendall, little power, but can get on base and has some speed for a catcher.

When asked about the Rebels offensive forecast Epp had only one thing to say “power”. During spring training, numerous Rebels have been putting the ball out of the Ryley Ball Park with ease. Whether it is the off season training the guys have done or the crisp spring air, time will tell if the power will continue into the regular season and hopefully into the playoffs.

The Rebels are scheduled to take on the Leduc Milleteers in an exhibition double header on Sunday May 3 as both teams are looking to finalize there rosters and solidify the depth charts.