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Tompkins' Drew Markle
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
LEADER IN THE CLUBHOUSE: It's Markle's team to continue quest for State
Expect Tompkins’ senior Drew Markle to continue being a major difference-maker for the persistent Texas powerhouse. The Falcons’ infielder compiled some stellar stats last season at the plate and as one of the most coveted slick-fielding shortstops in the country.
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“I’ve been playing infield since I was a little kid,” Markle said. “I think it’s a good spot on the field where I can be vocal to everyone. It’s in the middle of all the action, and it’s where I can help out my team the best way I can.”
Along with playing for Tompkins during the spring, Markle has been a standout for Twelve Baseball in the summer, which has advanced his career to the point of signing with the reigning NCAA National Champions, Ole Miss.
“You know, I loved Ole Miss since I was a kid,” said Markle. “I’ve always dreamed about playing in Oxford and when I was given the opportunity to play there, I had to take it. It’s going to be great.”
2022-23 Tompkins High School BaseballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Despite the roster being revamped due to graduation, Markle is challenged with being the voice in the clubhouse and the dugout.
"This season, we have a very new team,” Markle said.“We lost a lot of seniors last year, so I’m hoping to build a good relationship with this team as we go along. I know a lot of these guys. I’ve grown up with them. We already have individual relationships, but I think bringing them all together will be a key part of this season. Just playing as one. I’m just ready to get it on, it’s going to be fun."
VYPE 2022 Baseball Preview: No.2 Tompkins Falcons
With a loaded lineup that is now senior-heavy, this may be the year for Tompkins, after reaching the Regional Semis before falling to Strake Jesuit, to take that next step – State.
The Falcons are loaded. Jace LaViolette is a 6-foot-5 outfielder/pitcher, who can crush the ball. The all-state star has signed to Texas A&M and has some serious talent.
Jack Little (Wichita State) is an all-state, corner defender, while Cash Russell (Temple JC) is a senior leader in the middle-infield. Solomon Rotberg (Erskine College) is a crafty lefty and Michael DeBattista is an ace from the right side, so pitching will be a strength.
Junior Landon West (Rice) will call balls and strikes behind the plate and is strong with the lumber. Up the middle is first-team, all-state junior Drew Markle (Ole Miss), who could carry the team along with LaViolette.
Also, watch out for Trevor Esparza on the mound, who is signed to Tyler JC. The expectations will be high and coach Kyle Humphreys will need to manage all this talent, which can be harder than expected. They are no longer the hunters, but the hunted.
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