By Pete Borello

Some coaches pause to ponder such a question. Sandy Wihtol, however, was quick to answer when asked about his expectations for this year’s Los Altos High baseball team.

“Without a doubt, it’s to get back to CCS for the third year in a row,” Wihtol said. “It’s kind of expected in this program.”

It wasn’t always that way. When Wihtol took over the program seven years ago, the Central Coast Section playoffs were something the Eagles only dreamed about. After enduring a few rough seasons, the coach had his players believing they could make it. Now, they expect to contend for the league title and a playoff spot every season.

Wihtol anticipates Los Altos finishing in the top three of the SCVAL El Camino Division this year, admitting “anything less than that would be a big disappointment.”

So far, the Eagles have been anything but disappointing. Last Saturday’s 5-2 home win over Santa Clara upped their record to 4-0 in the division and 6-3 overall.

Wihtol considers this team among the best he’s had at Los Altos, featuring several players with all-league potential.

“It’s a young team, but an experienced team,” said the coach, who starts only three seniors. “We have good quality kids.”

The pitching staff lacks a proven starter, forcing Wihtol to go with what he called “a rotation by committee.” The former major league hurler isn’t shy about using his bullpen, which includes several pitchers “that are good for three or four innings,” he said.