The Storm baseball coach considers the season
Cleveland High School baseball coach Shane Shallenberger is in his 13th season as head coach of the Storm.
His side went 6-5 last season, which ended in a 16-5 loss at La Cueva in the quarter-finals. 10 questions were asked by the Observer; here are his answers:
The highlights of the 2021 season? Being able to start the season was a highlight in itself due to the pandemic.
Worst nightmare(s) of the 2021 season? Not knowing if the season would be canceled due to the pandemic.
Southpaw Jace Dominic delivers a pitch to a Hobbs batter in the Storm’s 5-1 win on Feb. 26. Gary Herron / Observer.
Best returning players for 2022? DJ Sandoval, Jace Dominic, Braylen Elzy, Logan Kinter, Austin Barela, Chase Tyler.
University newcomers? Roman Branaugh, Gavin Hoffman, Brandon Hennessy, Malachi Jaramillo, James Brevig, Justin Brady.
Who is the first in training and the last to leave? It varies from day to day. Our seniors are usually the first on the field. We all leave the pitch together after everything is set up.
The team you face that if you beat you know it’s gonna be a good season? We face Hobbs twice early (state runner-up in 2021). They have their best pitchers from last year, I think that will give us some insight into where we are and need to be.
Who is the favorite or the pre-season favorite in District 1-5A? Rio Rancho.
For my team to get to the 5A State Championship game, we will need: newcomers this year to catch up quickly at this level.
What do you hear yourself say to your players, year after year? Control what you can control and be great at it.
What is the most important skill you hope your players have? Be good people first. Treat others well and be good leaders.
Assistant Coaches/Roles: Adam Burke (College Pitching Coach), Devin Nelson (College Assistant Hitting and Infield), Scott Ostrowsky (JV Head Coach), Sean Jimenez (JV Assistant Coach), Robert Montoya (Team C Head Coach), Ted Bency (team C assistant).