Former Mustangs test the junior college waters with Rams’
baseball team
GILROY – Former Gilroy High baseball standouts Kurt Simmons, Gabe Gonzales and Rocco Costanza – all freshman – as well as sophomore Scott Perkins have brought their games to the Gavilan baseball team.
This season, Simmons – who solidified a spot in the Rams’ starting rotation – holds a 4-6 record with a 5.46 ERA. One of his four wins was a complete-game showing against Mission College. The Rams won that game 12-3.
“He’s done an outstanding job,” Gavilan skipper Mike McCormick said. “As long as we play defense, he’ll give us a shot to win the game.”
Gonzales has been used out of the bullpen. His record this season is 1-2 with a 7.33 ERA with his only win coming against West Valley. The left-handed reliever does whatever is needed and plays hard, according to McCormick.
“I’ve struggled heavily this year – but I enjoyed playing and I don’t regret playing because the guys on the team are fun to be around,” Gonzales said.
Perkins, who is the only sophomore of the four, is 0-3 with two saves and a 4.5 ERA. He has been used in short relief. So far this season, he has not started any games.
“He gives us everything he has every time he’s out there,” said McCormick of Perkins. “That’s all you can ask of these guys – to play hard.”
Costanza has struggled in his first collegiate season. He has seen limited playing time – batting only .200. He is playing behind freshman Rene Dimas this season, but doesn’t mind his role at all.
“It’s been a good learning experience for me… It’s been a struggle for me personally, going from seeing 75-80 mph fastballs that don’t move to good curve balls that they can throw at anytime in the count,” Costanza said. “I’m looking forward to next season and I’m proud of the things we’ve done this year. We’ve beat a lot of good teams.”
