Banwart Loading Up for Shox

Dalton Banwart, Goddard High's ace pitcher the past two seasons, is gearing up for Wichita State this summer with the Wichita Sluggers in the Walter Johnson League. "It's been a good experience for what I'll be facing at Wichita State," says Banwart, who follows in the brother Travis' footsteps by signing to play with the Shockers. Travis, who just moved up to high A ball in the Oakland A's organization, was the WSU staff ace in 2007 when the Shockers hosted a super regional against Cal-Irvine. Travis was recently back in town and Dalton says they took it easy a few days playing golf. The two always talk after each of their starts. "I talk to him after I pitch, he calls me after his starts. We exchange phone calls," said Dalton. It has been a hectic summer with many games being rained out, but Banwart has gotten several starts with the Sluggers, including one with 18 and under team. Banwart doesn't report to WSU until the first day of class on August 21, but he's getting a taste of what it will be like by playing against college players with the Sluggers. "In high school, I can throw it by people," he said. "Now I have to concentrate on hitting spots and throwing all three pitches for strikes to be effective at this level." Banwart has been spending time with several of his future teammates at WSU with the Sluggers. Tyler Grimes of Wichita North, Jordan Cooper of Shawnee Heights and Bryan Flynn of Owasso (Okla.) also play for the Sluggers. Logan Watkins, Goddard High's standout shortstop, was playing for the Sluggers until he signed with the Chicago Cubs organization last week. "We hung out a bit last week before he left," said Banwart, who came up playing with Watkins at Goddard. "I've been In touch with Brent (Kemnitz, WSU pitching coach) to get on their training regimen." With WSU graduating its top three starters - Rob Musgrave, Aaron Shafer and Anthony Capra - spots in the rotation with the Shockers are up for grabs next spring. "I hope to make an immediate impact (at WSU) and make the starting rotation, whether that's middle of the week or whatever - just get in innings as a freshman."