INDIANAPOLIS – The Bulldogs will need to replace two of their three starting outfielders from a year ago.
James Gargano is the lone returner in left. In 2019, Gargano ranked third on the team in batting average, third in runs scored and second in doubles (11).
Outfield
From left to right, Butler will go with
James Gargano,
Jacob Margroff and
Matt McElwain in the outfield. Gargano started in 45 games for BU last season. He hit .268 overall and .311 against BIG EAST opponents.
"Gargano is the most athletic player in our program," Schrage stated. "We will hit him at the top of the order this year. He has some power at the plate. Maybe we will see him be more aggressive this year."
Margroff will play centerfield and newcomer McElwain will end up in right. Margroff appeared in 75 games over his first two seasons on campus. He hit .260 each year and heads into his junior campaign with 39 hits, 27 runs scored and 19 RBI. McElwain is a JUCO Third Team All-American with a great arm.
Nick Ortega,
Kyle Pepiot,
Jackson Adams and
Robbie McCargar will all provide depth in the outfield. Ortega has the ability to play all three spots and is viewed as the best defensive outfielder on the team.
Pepiot is another very good defensive outfielder that can be a backup in center. Adams will backup McElwain in right at the start of the year and McCargar can play some left field for the 'Dawgs in 2020.
