The Pace High School Spartans baseball team has a long storied history of success that includes multiple state titles and players who would go on to the play in the major leagues. Last year was no exception, as the Spartans went all the way to the FHSAA state finals.
This most recent round of success has been the result of long-term planning by head coach Thomas Duffin, who was named the 6A-2A Baseball Coach of the Year at The Miami Herald's All-Dade Athletic Awards last year. He has focused on building a foundation for the team by developing young players. He has what he calls a “Fab Five” of star players that were built up as freshmen, which include current seniors Nicholas Fusco, Andres Sanchez, Manny Rodriguez, and Brian Diaz. Duffin credits them with helping the Pace baseball program see a return to excellence.
“I want them to be remembered for reviving the Pace baseball legacy and bringing new excitement to the team,” said Duffin.
Other star players include shortstop Jeter Downs, who has committed to the University of Miami. According to Duffin, Downs has attracted scouts and is currently projected to go in the top seven rounds of the Major League Baseball Draft after graduation.
In addition to the strong pitching that helped take them to the state finals last year, Duffin also stated that the team has improved on their offense and their hitting.
Of the 14 seniors on the team, 13 are already committed to play at universities. Pitchers Fusco and Rodriguez signed with Division I schools High Point University and Bethune-Cookman University respectively. Even two freshmen, Nick Regalado and Sammy Infante, are already committed to the University of Miami.
“Hopefully our level of play shows our maturity and experience after having played here for four years,” said catcher Andres Sanchez, who has committed to Barry University.
The Pace Spartans varsity baseball team will play their home opener against Mater Lakes Academy on Friday, March 3 at 7 p.m. at the Pace baseball field.