SEASON PREVIEW : MUSTANGS BALL CLUB MAKING FRESH START.

Byline: Gerry Gittelson Special to the Daily News

At least everyone can stop talking about what happened last year. That's the way Master's College baseball coach Monte Brooks feels, and for good reason.

The Master's team was rocked by scandal last season - seven players were ousted from the Christian college for a variety of infractions, ranging from using the school library computer to download the Playboy Internet site to drinking alcohol.

Following the dismissal of the seven players, several others quit in protest, and The Master's had little choice but to forfeit the rest of the season with nine games remaining. None of the players has returned.

Brooks, in his first year as coach, naturally prefers to look at the present and the future, rather than delve into all the controversy concerning the 1996 team.

``Everything about last year has been said and done,'' Brooks said. ``From my perspective, we weren't even sure if we would have a team this year, but I just trusted in God. As things have turned out. We have a group of kids that are highly committed and excited and enthusiastic. They've shown a great work ethic so far.''

Brooks realizes that his team, which includes four seniors, will have to learn as it goes through the season.

``We lack experience,'' Brooks said. ``Frankly, we're brand new as a team. A lot of our guys haven't had any college-level experience yet.''

There are some bright spots, however. Junior shortstop Danny Cato, a probable all-conference player according to Brooks, batted .321 last year and stole 14 of 15 bases. Catcher/outfielder Jim Young is a two-year starter who hit six home runs last season. Outfielders Garrick Moss and John Gabrielson are both very quick. Pitchers Lance Wallace (the top returner) and newcomer Ruben Escobar looked sharp in fall practice.

Brooks is especially pleased with the emergence of Cal State Northridge transfer Heath McElwee, a solid defensive player who plays a variety of positions - including pitcher.

``McElwee provides us with some leadership and some experience, and that's real important for this team at this point,'' Brooks said.

While it may be difficult for The Master's to improve on 1996's record of 14-20-2 (11-11-1 in Far West Region action), Brooks is pleased about how versatile many of his players have become. ``We have a lot of guys that can play two positions,'' he points out.

Here is a breakdown of the team by positions:

Catcher: Jim Young, in his third year, will start. His coach is counting on Young to be a run producer. ``He's got some power, and his on-base percentage (.470 last year) has been good the last couple of seasons. Returner Aaron Penberthy and freshman Tyler Kostjuk (Westlake High) will provide depth.

Infielders: Danny Cato, who can play shortstop or third base, bolsters the left side of the infield. ``He's a flashy player,'' Brooks said. Heath McElwee can play first base - his probable opening-day position - and outfield. Spray-hitting second baseman Chris Kollman, an all-state prep player recruited from Idaho, has won a job. ``He has a lot of ability,'' Brooks said. ``He's just a strong baseball player with real good hands.''

Freshman third baseman Todd Kostjuk - Tyler's twin - has shown a strong arm and good hands, according to Brooks. ``Plus he's got some pop in his bat,'' he said. Chad Zeller, Kurt Fillmore and Harving Parra are also competing for playing time.

Outfielders: Center fielder Garrick Moss, an excellent defensive player with a strong arm, ``can go get a ball with the best of them,'' Brooks said. ``He gives us speed on the base paths. Moss stole five of six while splitting time last year.''

Senior left-hander John Gabrielson, also blessed with good speed, had a really strong fall, Brooks said. ``He's a good bunter, and that will change the tempo of some games for us.''

Versatile Kurt Fillmore, an all-state selection from Idaho, is a switch-hitter with speed. Returners Jason Freeman, who batted .333 with a home run in limited action last season, and Jon Hulet also play outfield.

Pitchers: An especially inexperienced group, but Brooks is expecting a lot from Wallace and Escobar. ``Wallace will be effective if he can pinpoint his pitches,'' Brooks said. ``His curveball is his best pitch, and he's also got a good change-up.''

Escobar, the top pitcher at Victor Valley College the past two seasons, has shown good command of his pitches. ``He's a ferocious competitor,'' Brooks said. ``He's a control pitcher, but he's got pop and he's consistent, with good movement on his pitches.''

Eric Fuller is a converted outfielder who Brooks said has been effective on the mound. ``He has good baseball knowledge and a lot of confidence,'' Brooks said. Eric Moore, Toivo Betancourt, Brian Daly and Jason Black are competing for the other spots in the pitching rotation.

The Mustangs open their season at 2:30 p.m. today vs. Biola University at home.