The first game of the doubleheader — each game is scheduled for seven innings — is 4 p.m. The series runs through Tuesday with a second doubleheader set for Monday at Kailua, Kona.

But for the Vulcans (9-38 last season), the early start is more of a dilemma than a distinction. As an independent, UHH coach Joey Estrella said scheduling is difficult. The Vulcans began workouts on Jan. 2, giving them about 12 days of practice before the opener.

"That's the hand we've been dealt," said Estrella, entering his 27th season at UHH. "It's a difficult situation for us, but we have to play when they can come here."

This is how the Vulcans look in 2004.

Pitching

For the seven-game series, the Vulcans have settled on JC transfer Scott Siegfried, a left-hander, and right-hander Tyson Usui, a Waiakea product, for the opening doubleheader.

They will be followed by returnee Clay Daugherty and JC transfer John Matson.

Returnee Brian Ebbs and UH-Manoa transfer David Daniel are scheduled for Monday's doubleheader. Daniel, nephew of major leaguer Mike Fetters, pitched two scoreless innings of relief for the Rainbows in an exhibition against a Japanese team last year.

The seventh game will be pitched by committee, Estrella said.

Newcomers Marc Caviglia, Austin Tobin, Kyle Neuberger (a freshman out of Kapa'a High) and Tyler Safford will be used as relievers, Estrella said.

Former Vulcan Brendan Segara, who pitched and coached in professional independent leagues the past three seasons, is the new pitching coach.

"One of the most important things was bringing in Brendan Segara," Estrella said. "His influence has been outstanding."

Infield

Senior Daniel Rhodes starts at second and freshman Matthew Ball at shortstop.

Junior Johnny Dudoit returns after missing most of last season with a hamstring injury. He's pegged at third base, which he might share with returnee Tom Henderson (.309, 25 RBIs), the starting first baseman. Scott McLaughlin will play first base when not the designated hitter.

Catcher

Senior Chris Savio returns, giving the Vulcans experience behind the plate. Jeremy Loque also returns, but freshmen Baba Merino and Ryan Taiariol are expected to get playing time, Estrella said.

Outfield

Center fielder Kaliko Oligo, who will bat in the leadoff spot, hit .315 last year, sharing the team lead with Nalei Sooto.

David Chu (.316 in 19 games) will start in left and Sean Tamura (.294) will play in right.

Sophomore Casey Oketani and freshman Kahekili Santos out of Kamehameha also could get some playing time.