Western-Star.com

Not much was expected from the Mason baseball team in 2008. The Comets returned only one starter from last season's 25-5 squad and this would be its first season in the Greater Miami Conference.

But, through Tuesday, May 6, the Comets had won six straight and were sitting alone in second place in the league.

A big reason for Mason's success is shortstop Bryan Apking, the lone returning starter from last year.

"He's a gifted baseball player with a lot of God-given ability," Mason coach Ken Gray said.

The leadoff batter has a .380 average with 26 RBIs and five home runs.

"Every time he steps up to the plate, he gives us a chance," Gray said.

Apking recently chatted with The Pulse-Journal.

On being the lone returning starter: "It's helped me out. I feel like I have to be a leader on the team."

On what makes a him a good shortstop: "I'm quick and have quick hands."

What is something about coach Gray people may not know: "I think he is funny both on and off the field. Not too many people know that."

On Mason's season: "Everybody expected us to not be too good. I had confidence that we'd be good. We've been trying to prove that."

On playing your final season at Mason: "It's tough. After this season, we'll all go our separate ways, so I'm trying to enjoy it."

On continuing his career at Potomac State: "I chose them because they have a good baseball program. I liked the place on my visit, and there is a lot of fishing."

Favorite place to fish: "There are some good neighborhood ponds (in Mason) and some decent pay lakes."

Contact this reporter at (513) 755-5116 or mburcham@coxohio.com.

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