NORTHERN CONFERENCE : NORTHEASTERN LEAGUE

Verdugo Hills COACH: John Vera, 1st season LAST SEASON: 5-16-1; 4th in league, 4-13 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Vera has never coached a baseball team, but that didn’t stop Verdugo Hills’ administration from giving him the varsity reins. And the situation probably couldn’t be any better for Vera, who will inherit seven returning starters. Pitcher Pat Eubanks (.369) and senior designated hitter-pitcher Matt Ward (.348) are among the standout returners. Eubanks, who batted .300 two seasons ago as a sophomore, also will play center field. Senior right-hander Steve Hernandez (2-8, 3.04 earned-run average), who struck out 45 in 50 1/3 innings last season, returns. Hernandez will be assisted by junior Matt Fitzgerald, who also will play in the outfield, and junior Kevin Seitz. Also returning to their starting positions are junior catcher John Feliz, junior second baseman Richard Lucero, senior third baseman Stan Hessinger and senior outfielder Larry Gouger. Junior Ron Batagalia has been impressive with his bat and will start at first and bat cleanup. Hernandez and Lucero will split time at shortstop. OUTLOOK: Verdugo Hills is 7-31-1 the past two seasons but the Dons, with all their experience, could turn things around in 1992. “The potential is there. They have good tools,” Vera said.