Allen and Dieruff have joined the four baseball teams that used to make up the LVC East Division in the newly formed Eastern Pennsylvania Conference Steel Division.

Don't look for much change in where the teams wind up.

Liberty, an LVC East power throughout that league's run, starts out as the frontrunner for the first Steel Division title. Freedom and Easton again look like the Hurricanes' primary challengers, with both teams returning a solid group of players after qualifying for districts last year.

Here are capsule looks at all six Steel Division teams.

ALLEN

Coach: Rob Leskosky (third year, 10-30).

Last year: 6-14 overall, 2-12 LVC.

Top returnees: Sr. P-SSJustin Kratz(.339; 5-1, 34 2/3 IP, 2.42 ERA); Jr. P-OFMisael Sanchez (.295; 21 2/3 IP, 4.52 ERA); Jr. 1B Alex Monteverde;Jr. C Angel Gonzalez.

Key newcomers: Sr. SS-3B Michael Cesar; Sr. P Carlos Solis; Jr. C Ivan Solis; Jr. IF Jeremy Lovera; Jr. OF Angel Ruiz; Jr. P-IF Erick Reyes; Sr. P-IF Michael Santiago; Jr. OF-3B John Carlos Javier.

Outlook: The Canaries have Kratz back as their centerpiece but must replace nine lettermen from last season. Leskosky sees the potential for Allen to improve upon its win total for a second straight season. The key will be accepting a team-first approach.

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Liberty High baseball team looks strong in new EPC Steel Division