Player Profiles
 

1) Rocky "Deadwood" Kurchak:

           Rocky is the team captain and has been with the club since the beginning.  He also plays behind, when his knees feel up to it!  Don't let his nickname fool you - "Deadwood" is probably the most consistent striker on the club.  Rocky certainly isn't known for his speed, but what he lacks on the basepaths he more than makes up for with his precise and timely striking.
 

2) Jeff "Jackrabbit" Gatian:

           Jeff is another original member and leader on the club.  Jeff's nickname is well-deserved - he's one of the fastest and most agile players on the team.  Jackrabbit plays shortstop and is the lead-off striker.  Jackrabbit isn't a big guy, but he can hit the ball deceptively hard.  "Jackrabbit" had a long home run at the Amherst Cup during the 2001 season.
 

3) John "Rhino" Testa:

           John is a recent addition to the team, having played his first game against the Black Stockings in July, 2001.  Unfortunately, he suffered a hamstring injury during that first game and was unable to play until mid-August.  "Rhino" plays outfield for the Merinos and bats "clean-up".  John is the hardest-striking player on the team, and hit three home runs in his limited playing time, including a grand slam that left the grounds and broke a young lady's windshield!
 

4) Chuck "Lookout" Victor:

           Another long-time stalwart for the Merino club is Lookout, who plays second base and hurler.  Chuck, like Rocky, isn't known for his blinding speed, but he certainly strikes hard and consistently, and he's a fantastic second baseman.  Chuck and Jackrabbit make a lot of plays at second base, and even come up with the occasional double-play every now and then.  Chuck has proven to be invaluable to the club, as he frustrates a good number of base runners and strikers with his infielding skills.
 

5) Andy "Beefy" Phllips:

           Andy has been with the club for 4 years, and has proven to be a valuable player.  He plays third base, behind, and hurls.  Andy can hit the ball a long way, and normally bats in the 4 or 5 slot.  Using his signiture bat, Beefy was one of the leading ace-producers during the 2001 season.  In addition to being a good ballist, "Beefy" is also a fantastic artist, and has put a lot of energy into designing new Merinos uniforms which we hope to be able to play in some day!
 

6) Greg "Gashouse" Walker:

           Gashouse Walker has been with the club for 2 years, and is one of the best all-around players on the team.  Greg plays outfield, but also plays first base when needed.  Greg always brings a positive and upbeat attitude to the match, and does a tremendous job motivating his teammates.  He's a very good striker, having hit three home-runs last season.
 

7) Steve "Milkboy" Walker:

            The Milkboy has been with the club for 2 seasons.  He earned his nickname by not wearing the signature Merino bib at one of the matches.  Rocky thought he looked like a milk-delivery boy, and so the name stuck.  Steve plays outfield, and typically bats in the 2-slot, as he is one the faster players on the team.
 

8)  Jim "Lucky" Bright:

            Jim, undoubtedly the happiest guy on the team, usually plays first base for the club, but is capable of playing just about any position.  Jim's upbeat attitude, great sportsmanship, and dedication make him a valuable asset to the team and a joy to be around.  "Lucky" is a good striker as well.  We can always depend on Lucky to get a hit during clutch situations!
 

9)  Kenny "Lefty" Bright:

            Kenny has been with the club for several years, and is one of the most dedicated and consistent players on the team.  Kenny usually hurls, but has been known to outfield or play behind when needed.  He's a solid striker, and seems to get a hit just about every time he steps to the plate.  Like his Dad, "Lefty" has a fantastic attitude and always displays great sportsmanship at every Merinos match.
 

10)  Rick "Musket" Gatian:

            Musket is one of three Gatian brothers on the team, and has been with the club for several years.  He usually plays right field, but is capable of playing behind when necessary.  Musket is a good striker, and a very competent outfielder.  He's also fast, so it helps the Merinos chances (of winning) when he gets on base!
 

11)  Rob "Hurricane" Gatian

            The Hurricane is one of the most recognizable players on the team, with his signature sideburns and mustache.  He plays hurler almost exclusively.  Rob brings a great attitude to the match and always displays fine sportsmanship, even though he has seen limited playing time since last season due to an injured shoulder.  We're hoping he'll be healed and ready to play for the 2002 season!