The Copperheads success can greatly be attributed to the team's six All-Stars. One of these players, Tony Campana, has dazzled many fans by showcasing his lightning-quick speed at the leadoff position this summer.
What has impressed me the most about Tony this season is his speed
said Copperhead coach Mike Deegan. He has the ability to change the outcome of the game by just getting on base.
Campana realizes he will never have the power that some of his teammates have at the plate. But the 5-foot-8, 150-pound outfielder knows he has to do whatever he can at the plate to reach first base.
By far my best asset is my speed Campana said. It's my job to get on base so my teammates can knock me in.
Campana has scored 21 runs for the Copperheads this season by constantly putting himself into scoring positions. He has collected 18 steals this season, one shy of the league-leading total amassed by Steve Rosado of the Licking County Settlers.
He definitely has the green light to go for second every time
except on some very rare occasions
Deegan said.
In addition to his notable totals for steals and runs scored, Campana has accumulated a .305 batting average. The league recognized his success in the first half of the season when it started him in the Great Lakes All-Star game last week.
It was an honor to play for the team
Campana said. It was exciting to see my teammate [Kevin Johnson] make the other team. I love playing against people I know.
Johnson was Campana's teammate at the University of Cincinnati last season. Campana began his collegiate career at UNC-Asheville, but transferred to UC after his second season. Campana was a great pickup for the Bearcats: he hit .329 with 60 stolen bases during his first season with the team.
At first
the main reason why I transferred was to get closer to home
Campana said. During the season
I realized the team's coaching philosophy was better suited for me
and it became a much better situation overall.
Campana will always be recognized for his speed, but his opposition can't afford to underestimate his toughness. After the Copperheads victory against the Delaware Cows Monday, Campana and Copperheads pitcher Zach Fairbanks engaged in a friendly wrestling match. With his teammates cheering him on, Campana pinned the larger Fairbanks to the ground.
Not bad for the smallest guy on the team.
