Dalton Cornett should step up an take the lead role for the inside linebacker group with Luke Ross alongside him. Joe Steiden should see some PT at corner with Carter Burke getting some PT at safety.
Highlands' problem in this game was mostly pitching and somewhat fielding. They hit the ball very well with only 1 strikeout and many balls hit well, just right at beechwood fielders or they made impressive plays. Congrats Beechwood, solid squad this year
The 9th region may be the most unpredictable region int he state this year; Ryle, Cov Cath, Beechwood, Boone, Conner, and don't count Highlands out, they always seem to click at the right time. Going to be a very competitive 9th region tourny this year, no doubt
offense has not been the problem for this team, they average around 9 hits a game which should surely be enough to win more games than they have. Defense has really been the problem for this team, far too many errors and averaging 4 walks/hit batters per game
Michael Davidson from Highlands can surprise a lot of people this year, he's not the biggest kid in the world, but he has been working extremely hard in the offseason as he was bothered by an ankle all of last year.
Johnston does throw some nice balls, and i feel that he would excel in a 7 on 7 type game more than Gosney simply because he has a better touch but just as you said, 7 on 7 is not game situation. Also, from what i have heard, Johnston lacks a good attitude and work ethic in the weight room, and you know how much Highlands emphasizes weight room activities. I feel that the coaches have seen this and may be more inclined to play someone else.