The Solana Beach Cardinals are hungry to improve upon last season’s regular season crown and are in great hands with new head coach Zach Wilkins. Wilkins served as the bullpen coach for Palomar College this past season and will be heading to the University of Arizona next year as an assistant. Prior to coaching, Wilkins played at the University of Nevada.

Key player’s for the Cardinals in 2017 include: Avery Tuck, Matt Ornelia, Josh Sidney and Michael Lopez.

Tuck committed to San Diego State and was drafted in the 26th round by the Houston Astros. Matt Ornelia committed to Utah. Josh Sidney transferred from Valparaiso to Palomar College. He was one of the top arms on the staff this past season logging 53.2 innings, while striking out 41 and earning a 4-1 record.

The Cardinals open the SBL season Friday, June 9 against the Inland Valley Pirates at Cal Poly Pomona at 6 p.m. Saturday, June 10 they will host the Pirates.