When Chris Kelley took over as the Cape Coral High baseball coach this season, he became the program’s fourth different coach in four years.

Needless to say, for seniors like Miguel Rodriguez, it’s been a challenge adjusting to a different style each season.

“We kind of got used to it after awhile,” Rodriguez said, “but the difficult part is you have to prove yourself to another coach every year.”

It’s been a challenge for Kelley, as well, trying to turn around the Seahawks after a 6-16 season, while laying the foundation for future success.

The process has been helped by the leadership of the Seahawks’ 13 seniors, including Rodriguez.

The Daily Breeze Male Athlete of the Week has anchored the defense and managed the pitching staff from his position as catcher.

In a 4-0 victory over North Fort Myers last week, Rodriguez had three hits, including a solo home run, and worked well with senior pitcher Collin Metz in a complete-game shutout.

“I give Miguel the reins to call the game. I don’t call any pitches,” Kelley said. “It’s quite a responsibility, but he’s done a phenomenal job.”

After battling some injuries last season, Rodriguez is back at full strength and his impact has been felt in a variety of ways. Offensively, he leads the Seahawks with a .565 batting average and has three home runs. Rodriguez will continue his playing career after this season at Broward Community College.

Kelley said despite his impact on the Seahawks this season he still has a lot of potential to develop.

“I don’t think he’s ever actually played a full season, this is his first full season catching and he’s responded very well,” Kelley said. “One of the things I like most is his work ethic and his intensity every day.”



Honorable mentions:



Michael Zunino, Mariner baseball: Zunino, a junior, hit five home runs in three games last week, including a walk-off grand slam to defeat Cape 5-1.



Dustin Mishka, Ida Baker baseball: Mishka, a senior, hit a two-run home run and doubled in a 6-3 win over Estero. He also homered in a loss to Fort Myers.