UH gets infielder from Mid-Pacific

By Stacy Kaneshiro
Advertiser Staff Writer

One of the state's top middle infielders has verbally committed to play for the University of Hawai'i baseball team.

Mid-Pacific Institute all-state second baseman Isaac Omura said he will sign a letter of intent to play for the Rainbows under new coach Mike Trapasso. The 5-foot-9, 165-pound senior, a starter since his sophomore year, is the second Owl to commit to the Rainbows. Earlier, catcher Matt Inouye said he will sign with UH.

"I thought the opportunity was good," Omura said. "Coach Trapasso is a good coach and I like where he wants to take the program."

The first day of the week-long early signing period is Wednesday.

Omura batted .352 with five home runs for the Interscholastic League of Honolulu champion Owls, who were runners-up in the state to Kailua High. He also was an ILH first-team all-star.

Omura, who also can play shortstop, will fill a gap at second base when Gregg Omori finishes his eligibility after this season.

Omura said Hawai'i Pacific and San Francisco also showed interest in him.

Omura is the third Hawai'i high school senior to give a verbal commitment. Last week, Iolani all-state designated hitter Kila Ka'aihue said he will sign with Nebraska.

The Rainbows open the 2002 season Jan. 30 against Florida State.