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Knights adding youth to line up to open 2015 NSIBL season

HANTS COUNTY – The Windsor Knights have only been on the field for approximately two weeks as they prepare for the start of the 2015 Nova Scotia Intermediate Baseball League season.

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However, team spokesperson Paul Humphreys told the Hants Journal that he doesn't see huge changes coming for his club, but there will be a few challenges.

The Knights had a 14-8 record last season, which was good for third place in the league.

One significant loss for the Knights this year will be the departure of Gwenaël Dugué behind the plate.

Dugué explained to the Journal that he suffered a bad sprain in his throwing arm in February and has not thrown a ball since then.

He said he “has no idea” if he will be back on the field this season.

Humphreys said another big loss will be Ryan Clarke who moved to Ottawa in the off-season.

Clarke had a .359 batting average for the Knights in 2014 and an on-base percentage of .496.

This year, the pitching staff will consist of Dave Swindall, Jason Hanes and Humphreys. There will be some potential help from newcomer Devan Dunfield and Wes Kehoe — both standout players for the midget team and the Avon View High School baseball team in recent seasons.

Dunfield could prove to be a truly durable player as he plays third base, can hit really well while also being able to pitch.

Other newcomers expected to see action this summer are infielder Evan Frank and outfielder Brett Wallace.

The Knights were fifth in hits in the league last season with 115 in 22 games for a .260 team average and will certainly be looking to improve upon that for offence this season.

“I expect our season-opening doubleheader against Hantsport on May 24 in Windsor to be pretty pitcher friendly until the players find their timing,” said Humphreys.

The opening twin bill against the Hantsport Shamrocks will start at 1 p.m. at the Tremain Crescent ball field.

The Shamrocks did not make the playoffs last season. They finished with a 10-12 record.

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