LJ baseball: 'Meyo', Baker

Junior Johnny Meyerott, inserted as a pinch-runner
in La Jolla's game against Henry at Petco Park
April 12. Moments before, "Meyo" had
asked the second base umpire (right)
if he could move for a clearer view
to the plate. The umpire replied he
couldn't, because he needed a clear
view of the plate, too.
(Photo by Ed Piper)
 

By Ed Piper

"Johnny Meyerott is one of our social leaders on the team," says La Jolla baseball coach Gary Frank in one of the understatements of the year. Meyerott, who suffered a broken right hand when hit by a pitch early in the season, has had substantial energy during his convalescence to devote to joking, pranking, and even taking "one-handed batting practice," according to his coach.

"To Johnny's credit, he hasn't let the injury slow him down," says Frank. "Meyo" was expecting to be released by his physician to full activity this week (April 15), so he was looking forward to that April 12 in the Vikings' game at Petco Park against Patrick Henry, when he was inserted as a pinch-runner.

"He had a solid sophomore year," says his coach. While being sidelined, "He is at practice every day, and continues to motivate and support all of his teammates.

"He has remained very positive throughout the entire experience."

To sum up, "He has a great, outgoing personality."

Simon Baker, a sophomore, has been splitting time with the varsity and JV's. "He is a natural infielder but played some good outfield for us earlier in the year," says Frank, a second baseman in his playing days. "He will be a big contributor over the next couple of years."