Carrollton, GA - The West Georgia baseball season begins on Sunday, as the Wolves play host to Talladega at Cole Field. The final installment of the UWG 2011 baseball preview focuses behind the plate on the catchers.

The Wolves were originally scheduled to play Talladega on Saturday in Alabama, but the storms this week took their toll on the Tornadoes' field, forcing the switch to Sunday at 1 p.m. at Cole Field.

"I would say that behind the plate is one of our strongest areas this season," said head coach Skip Fite. "We have three players who can contribute in multiple ways."

Leading the way is returner and co-captain #David Buchanan#. In the 2010 season, Buchanan was the top catcher in the UWG ranks, as teams tried to test him throughout the year, attempting 36 stolen bases. But he was up to the task, throwing out 18 runners in his junior campaign.

"Our pitchers and catchers have a goal this season to make sure that 45 percent of runners are thrown out," Fite said. "David was good for us last year, but he pulled a muscle in his abdomen, or his numbers would have likely been even better."

Buchanan was fairly efficient when he hit the ball last season, as he had 21 hits and 15 RBI on the year in 2010.

Platooning at the dish for the Wolves in 2011 will be junior #Andy Marinelli#, who comes to UWG from Chattanooga State in Chattanooga, TN. He played there for two seasons, winning a conference and region championship in 2010. Last season, he hit .386 with 41 runs scored and 50 RBI.

"Andy is a great catcher and has the potential to be a great player for us," Fite said. "He gives us several options, because he is a good bat and can play first, so when he isn't behind the plate we can DH him or play him at first."

If needed, Fite can also turn to freshman #Bracken Turner#, a newcomer to the UWG roster from Madison County High in Danielsville, GA. Turner hit .357 as a senior in high school and has the tools to step in if needed.