Thornton is progressing, has progressed this year. Matt has not only had limited big-league experience, but limited experience, period.

They were nervous with this being their first time playing at the County Center. The experience was great, and the kids loved it. Hopefully, we can come out on the winning end next year.

A fabulous experience among friends representing different flags,

She got a lot of really good experience traveling and playing tougher competition. But it's really a blessing that she came back and played for us her senior year. I think she's really glad she came back out, and we are too.

He hasn't done anything that suggests that he isn't ready to be here from a physical or emotional standpoint. He has the persona. He has a complete understanding that he has a lot of talent and that he's utilizing his talent. He has a delivery and an aura that represent a confident force.

We're really pleased. He's been very vocal to our staff, that he's here to serve them. He puts the lion's share of his focus on defensive play. He's a real pro. Pitchers sometimes shake to the wrong pitch. The sign of a real good catcher is that he runs out there and doesn't let the pitcher make that mistake. He's shown a propensity to do that. I'm really impressed.