When Michael Johnson took over the Renton High baseball team two weeks before the 2007 season, the program had 12 players and a negative figure in the budget. Just one year later, the Indians’ turnaround is already in full swing.
The Renton team has 28 players this season, not only enough for the Indians’ first JV team in more than a decade, but nearly enough for a C team. Getting players on the field was Johnson’s first obstacle. The second obstacle was transforming individual players into a team.
“You can tell that the climate of the team is changing,” Johnson said. “We spent a lot of time trying to instill the values that make a team.”
Johnson had the team sign a contract in his first season, which laid out exactly what the expectations for the Renton High baseball team would be. Proof of the team concept is on the field at about 2:45 p.m. every weekday, where the Indians are warming up and stretching before Johnson even arrives from Dimmitt Middle School, where he teaches.
“They’re getting the message and we’re definitely gonna see some turnaround,” Johnson said.
Justin Gunn will lead the pitching staff and be an important cog in the infield at shortstop. Gunn will play baseball at the University of Washington next year.
Senior James Coleman will pitch and play in a super-utility role, starting wherever he’s needed depending on who is pitching. Johnson said Coleman is a great athlete and can play any position on the field, except catcher.
“He [Coleman] was one of my biggest projects, as far as buying into the team,” Johnson said. “He’s really turned into a great leader on the team.”
Senior Taylor Chow will start at second base. Chow was batting in the eight or nine spot last season, but has improved and moved to the top of the order. Chow’s speed in the leadoff spot should help the Indians create runs.
Freshman Luke Bartlett will start at catcher and Johnson is prepared for what might be a rocky road in the beginning to help for a smooth ride later on. “He’s our catcher of the future,” Johnson said. “We’ll put him out there now and take our lumps, and he’ll only get better.”
Renton’s other starting freshman is Kendrick Billen. Billen will pitch, play in center field and at first base. Junior Adrian Scott will play shortstop, catcher and pitch as well. Returning Johnson Vi should also play a key role for the Indians.
With more players on the team, the caliber of the team should be able to improve on last season’s 2-14 record. With the JV team, the Renton program should continue to rise.
“With the sheer bigger numbers alone, the talent pool expands,” Johnson said.
There are some remaining challenges. The responsibility of fundraising falls to Johnson and his assistant coaches because Renton doesn’t have a booster club. Fundraising is important so the Indians can afford new uniforms, warm-up gear and other equipment.
“We have to do all of our own fundraising,” Johnson said. “It’s fun working with the kids, but it’s a ton of work.”
Adam McFadden can be reached at amcfadden@reporternewspapers.com or 425-255-3484, ext. 5054
Renton has players to field JV team for first time in a decade
