Friday, April 27, 2001
Purcell's Berry steals the show
By Dave Schutte
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Basestealing is an art that most baseball coaches find difficult to teach. But anyone interested in learning the skill might want to take the time to watch Vince Berry, a 5-foot-10, 145-pound speedster at Purcell Marian.
Vince Berry leads off first.
(Steven M. Herppich photo)
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Berry, a senior, has a school record 41 stolen bases in two seasons as the starting center fielder for the Cavaliers. In Purcell Marian's first 12 games, he swiped a single-season school record 24 bases, including a single-game record six vs. McNicholas April 11.
“Actually it was seven against McNicholas,” Berry said. “I stole third in the final inning but someone forgot to record it.”
The state record for a single game is eight. Whether Berry stole six or seven, it's certainly remarkable.
“Obviously, Vince is very fast,” Purcell Marian coach Tom Nerl said. “But the key is a good start. Last week he was picked off first, but beat the throw to second and was safe.”
Also a cornerback and tailback for the football team, Berry earned Division II All-Ohio honors.
As a junior, Berry batted leadoff, hitting .343 and stealing 17 bases.
He was moved to the No.2 spot this season and has come up with nine RBI and 15 runs scored.
“The difference this season is patience,” Berry said. “I get a decent lead, study the pitcher's leg kick and then take off.”
Berry has been timed at 4.3 seconds in the 40-meter dash.
“It depends on the situation but I'm usually free to run any time I'm on base,” Berry said. “I've only been thrown out once and that was against Badin last year. I'd say I've stolen at least 30 consecutive bases.”
Despite these successes, Berry is waiting for the opportunity to steal home.
“Coach promised me that I will get the opportunity before the season ends,” Berry said. “I've stolen home many times playing summer ball, and I know I can do it.”
Although Berry has only a .318 batting average, his on-base percentage is an outstanding .431, which includes nine walks.
“Vince is a first-class kid who gets along with everybody,” Nerl said. “Even a bad day is a pretty good day for him. He has an infectious laugh and is always smiling and stopping in the hall to say hello to somebody.
Berry had the option of playing football or baseball in college next season. He decided on baseball and will attend Triton Junior College, a small school near Chicago, that sent former Princeton High star Lance Johnson to the majors.
“Attending college wasn't an option for Vince,” Berry's mother, Cheryl, said. “I know that Vince would like to play professional baseball but not until he gets an education.”
Berry's single beats Elder
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Purcell's Berry steals the show
