The fans’ pick

P/OF Justin Montanez, Sr., Nature Coast

For three years, Justin Montanez worked at becoming a baseball standout at Nature Coast.

He started off on junior varsity, then moved his way up to varsity for the final two games of his freshman season. Montanez’ production increased rapidly, going from a .195 average as a sophomore to .296 in his abbreviated junior season to .389 this season. 

As a pitcher, he showed considerable improvement, too. Montanez’ ERA dropped from 5.25 two years ago to a miniscule 0.86 this year. 

Two weeks ago, Montanez played a critical role in helping the Sharks reach the Class 4A state semifinals. 

In the region final, he threw a four-hitter, allowing one earned run while striking out four to beat Orlando Bishop Moore. 

Fans took notice. Montanez received 87 percent of the votes (166) to win in convincing fashion. 

The PTP picks

C/DH Alejandro Montada, Jr., Jefferson: Drove in two runs, including the deciding one, and scored two more in a win over Land O’ Lakes to help the Dragons reach the 5A state semifinals.  

2B Dylan Oester, Sr., Dunedin: Went 2-for-3 with a double, three RBIs and a run scored in a win over Cape Coral Mariner and a trip to the 4A state semifinals.