TCAL Baseball

Hard to believe the Tri-County Athletic League is opening its baseball season today.
Even more perplexing is the fact that it's playing an 18-game schedule, meaning it will play each team in its league three times.
Three games against the same opponent is too many.
If it was me, I would have preferred playing six non-league games against opponents outside the area. Or at least another tournament.
Oh well.
A bigger question is who will win the TCAL.
Here's one so-called expert's opinion.
1. Salinas: With shortstop Michael Aldrete solidifying the infield and providing a potent bat in the No. 3 spot, the Cowboys averaged 8.1 runs in four non-league games.
2. San Benito: The Balers pitching staff gave up just 2.5 earned runs per seven innings in non-league play.
3. Gilroy: Don't be mislead by the Mustangs 1-4 non-league record. Three of their losses were to CCS powers Mitty and Aptos (twice).
4. Palma: Having removed its third coach in three years for personal reasons two weeks ago, chemistry has been disrupted again.
5. Alvarez: If you're looking for a sleeper in the TCAL, Alvarez will upset a team or two down the stretch.
6. North Salinas: Dealing with its third coach in three years, at least the Vikings have one of the nicest facilities in the county.
7. Alisal: That 0-5 start does not bold well for the Trojans, who play in one of the strongest leagues in the section.