Showing posts with label 2006 Big Ten Tournament. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2006 Big Ten Tournament. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Watch Tournament Highlights
CSTV has provided some video highlights of the 2006 Big Ten Tournament. Here is Game #10.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Big Ten Tournament: Day 5
As you probably know by now, # 23 Michigan won the Big Ten Conference Tournament title over Minnesota, 9-4. The Wolverines captured both the regular season and tournament championships. The win gives Michigan an automatic spot in the NCAA Tournament field. (More on that a bit later.)
Rich Maloney's squad posted single runs in the first three innings then, in the fourth, hung five more tallies on the Gophers and never looked back. CF Eric Rose was the offensive star collecting three hits and three RBI. Adam Abraham, who was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Tournament, also hit a solo homer.
Craig Murray got the start for Michigan and pitched 4.2 innings before giving way to Michael Powers (4-0) who completed the last 4.1 frames and merited the victory. The Gophers scored twice on each Michigan hurler, but only one of Murray's runs was earned.
Minnesota had plenty of chances, as they connected for eleven hits and received five free passes, but failed to keep pace with the Wolverines offense. Andy Hunter had three hits and Kyle Baran's two RBI paced the Gophers' attack.
What seperated #23 Michigan from the rest of the Big Ten this year was pitching. In particular, starting pitching carried the Wolverines to the Big Ten titles. Paul Hammond and Chris Fetter were named first team All-Big Ten. Zach Putnam garnered second team accolades.
While seniors pitchers like Hammond, Drew Taylor and Craig Murray were counted on to be leaders, it was the emergence of their freshman arms that proved to be the difference.
Fetter, Putnam, Adam Abraham and Michael Powers helped lift Michigan from title hopeful to conference champions. This tournament was evidence of that. Michigan won four times en route to the crown and each of the freshman--Fetter, Putnam, Abraham and Powers--earned a win.
In addition to Abraham being named the Outstanding Player, the Big Ten announced it's All-Tournament Team. Abraham was named to the team as a pitcher and a designated hitter.
Now, it's on to baseball's Big Dance for the Wolverines. Where Michigan plays will be announced tomorrow. Many of the pundits have suggested either a trip to Corvallis to take on Oregon State or, possibly, Lexington to play in Kentucky's regional. That's speculation, of course. Michigan could end up just about anywhere, but in looking over the regional hosts, UK is the closest site.
Michigan, who played the best defense in the Big Ten, did not look good defensively this week. That will need to improve, plus the Wolverines need to continue to get quality starting pitching in order to play well next weekend. I'm hopeful they can put together a strong showing for the conference and northern schools, in general.
Certainly, the strength of whatever regional they are assigned will be a major factor.
I'm sort of hoping that not playing at home, not having the burden of being the favorite, will help Michigan in the NCAA's. We will all have a better idea what is going on at this time Monday.
I'd love to hear Ohio State's name get called during the selection show tomorrow, but I just don't see them overcoming their low RPI number, just as Minnesota won't. In spite of their incredible second place finish in the regular season, Northwestern's overall record eliminated them from the NCAA's before the Big Ten season began.
Finally, here is a link to some photos from Saturday's action--Michigan vs. Ohio State and the Wolverines vs. Minnesota. They loaded in reverse order, but you still get the idea.
Rich Maloney's squad posted single runs in the first three innings then, in the fourth, hung five more tallies on the Gophers and never looked back. CF Eric Rose was the offensive star collecting three hits and three RBI. Adam Abraham, who was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Tournament, also hit a solo homer.
Craig Murray got the start for Michigan and pitched 4.2 innings before giving way to Michael Powers (4-0) who completed the last 4.1 frames and merited the victory. The Gophers scored twice on each Michigan hurler, but only one of Murray's runs was earned.
Minnesota had plenty of chances, as they connected for eleven hits and received five free passes, but failed to keep pace with the Wolverines offense. Andy Hunter had three hits and Kyle Baran's two RBI paced the Gophers' attack.
What seperated #23 Michigan from the rest of the Big Ten this year was pitching. In particular, starting pitching carried the Wolverines to the Big Ten titles. Paul Hammond and Chris Fetter were named first team All-Big Ten. Zach Putnam garnered second team accolades.
While seniors pitchers like Hammond, Drew Taylor and Craig Murray were counted on to be leaders, it was the emergence of their freshman arms that proved to be the difference.
Fetter, Putnam, Adam Abraham and Michael Powers helped lift Michigan from title hopeful to conference champions. This tournament was evidence of that. Michigan won four times en route to the crown and each of the freshman--Fetter, Putnam, Abraham and Powers--earned a win.
In addition to Abraham being named the Outstanding Player, the Big Ten announced it's All-Tournament Team. Abraham was named to the team as a pitcher and a designated hitter.
Now, it's on to baseball's Big Dance for the Wolverines. Where Michigan plays will be announced tomorrow. Many of the pundits have suggested either a trip to Corvallis to take on Oregon State or, possibly, Lexington to play in Kentucky's regional. That's speculation, of course. Michigan could end up just about anywhere, but in looking over the regional hosts, UK is the closest site.
Michigan, who played the best defense in the Big Ten, did not look good defensively this week. That will need to improve, plus the Wolverines need to continue to get quality starting pitching in order to play well next weekend. I'm hopeful they can put together a strong showing for the conference and northern schools, in general.
Certainly, the strength of whatever regional they are assigned will be a major factor.
I'm sort of hoping that not playing at home, not having the burden of being the favorite, will help Michigan in the NCAA's. We will all have a better idea what is going on at this time Monday.
I'd love to hear Ohio State's name get called during the selection show tomorrow, but I just don't see them overcoming their low RPI number, just as Minnesota won't. In spite of their incredible second place finish in the regular season, Northwestern's overall record eliminated them from the NCAA's before the Big Ten season began.
Finally, here is a link to some photos from Saturday's action--Michigan vs. Ohio State and the Wolverines vs. Minnesota. They loaded in reverse order, but you still get the idea.
Can You Pitch?
Just a thought or two before I head out. Who on Earth is left to pitch for either side today? If it wasn't bad enough that both teams have been through starters 1-4, last night's slugfest forced more arms out of the 'pen. I'm not even going to hazzard a guess as to who will take the mound today.
One thing I will suggest is that we might be in for more offensive fireworks today. With a drained pitching staff, warmer weather (high 80's today) and two teams that combined to score twenty runs last night and you've got the makings for another track meet. Of course, having said that, I've probably all but assured a 1-0 pitcher's duel.
Regardless of the outcome, today is the last day of the tournament. It's been a great experience, but boy, oh boy, do I have a lot of work around the house I need to catch-up on. Five days away from the real world and you get behind. The rain predicted for tomorrow better hold off until I get done grilling. (I'm firing up the BBQ for lunch tomorrow. I know one thing that won't be on the fire--hot dogs. I've seen enough of them for a while.)
One thing I will suggest is that we might be in for more offensive fireworks today. With a drained pitching staff, warmer weather (high 80's today) and two teams that combined to score twenty runs last night and you've got the makings for another track meet. Of course, having said that, I've probably all but assured a 1-0 pitcher's duel.
Regardless of the outcome, today is the last day of the tournament. It's been a great experience, but boy, oh boy, do I have a lot of work around the house I need to catch-up on. Five days away from the real world and you get behind. The rain predicted for tomorrow better hold off until I get done grilling. (I'm firing up the BBQ for lunch tomorrow. I know one thing that won't be on the fire--hot dogs. I've seen enough of them for a while.)
Big Ten Tournament: Day 4
In the first game of the day, #23 Michigan defeated Ohio State, 3-2. The Buckeyes managed only four hits off a trio of Michigan hurlers led by starter Zach Putnam. Putnam (6-1) pitched 6.2 innings of three hit, one run baseball. Ben Jenzen and Adam Abraham followed Putnam to the hill and each allowed only one hit a piece.
For the Wolverines' offense, Derek VanBuskirk had a double, run scored and RBI.
The Buckeyes didn't do themselves any favors by committing three errors on the day. Nor could they take advantage of the seven walks issued by Michigan's pitchers. Their own starter, Jake Hale, countered Putnam's strong effort working seven innings while allowing seven hits, two walks and three runs. Only one of the runs was earned, however.
Once again this afternoon, Michigan displayed the formula that carried them to the Big Ten regular season crown--strong starting pitching and timely hitting. The Wolverines have also been rock solid defensively this year, but they have not been anywhere near as good with the glove this week.
Michigan's win eliminated Ohio State from the tournament and, barring the unexpected, probably finishes the 2006 season for Bob Todd's squad. The Buckeyes finish at 37-21 unless the are chosen as an at-large team for the NCAA Tournament which seems unlikely as of this moment.
The Wolverines victory meant that they got to play Minnesota in the second game of the day--a potential championship game for the Gophers. Unfortunately for the Minnesota faithful, if a championship is coming, it won't be until Sunday, as Michigan beat Minnesota, 11-9.
This was a good old fashioned slugfest. Adam Abraham was the star for Michigan. Abraham started as the designated hitter and went 2 for 4 with two RBI. Abraham (5-3) also pitched five innings of relief work giving up nine hits, but alllowing only one walk and one run.
Mike Schmidt drove in three runs and Nate Recknagel hit a bomb (the ball went out over the 375 ft. sign) amongst his three hits on the evening. Gophers' SS Dan Lyons had three hits, including a homer, scoring twice and driving in four runs.
The Gophers entered the ninth inning trailing 11-8. With two outs, Minnesota began a rally. Two singles and a walk later and the Gophers had the bases loaded with the winning run coming to the plate. One run did eventually cross the plate, but that's all the Gophers could muster in the last frame.
Both teams will play for the Big Ten Tournament Championship tomorrow (which is technically now today) at noon. The weather is expected to be sunny and warm for the last game of the year in the conference.
It's late, again, so I'll leave off here and I'll try to blog something after I get some sleep and the sun comes up.
For the Wolverines' offense, Derek VanBuskirk had a double, run scored and RBI.
The Buckeyes didn't do themselves any favors by committing three errors on the day. Nor could they take advantage of the seven walks issued by Michigan's pitchers. Their own starter, Jake Hale, countered Putnam's strong effort working seven innings while allowing seven hits, two walks and three runs. Only one of the runs was earned, however.
Once again this afternoon, Michigan displayed the formula that carried them to the Big Ten regular season crown--strong starting pitching and timely hitting. The Wolverines have also been rock solid defensively this year, but they have not been anywhere near as good with the glove this week.
Michigan's win eliminated Ohio State from the tournament and, barring the unexpected, probably finishes the 2006 season for Bob Todd's squad. The Buckeyes finish at 37-21 unless the are chosen as an at-large team for the NCAA Tournament which seems unlikely as of this moment.
The Wolverines victory meant that they got to play Minnesota in the second game of the day--a potential championship game for the Gophers. Unfortunately for the Minnesota faithful, if a championship is coming, it won't be until Sunday, as Michigan beat Minnesota, 11-9.
This was a good old fashioned slugfest. Adam Abraham was the star for Michigan. Abraham started as the designated hitter and went 2 for 4 with two RBI. Abraham (5-3) also pitched five innings of relief work giving up nine hits, but alllowing only one walk and one run.
Mike Schmidt drove in three runs and Nate Recknagel hit a bomb (the ball went out over the 375 ft. sign) amongst his three hits on the evening. Gophers' SS Dan Lyons had three hits, including a homer, scoring twice and driving in four runs.
The Gophers entered the ninth inning trailing 11-8. With two outs, Minnesota began a rally. Two singles and a walk later and the Gophers had the bases loaded with the winning run coming to the plate. One run did eventually cross the plate, but that's all the Gophers could muster in the last frame.
Both teams will play for the Big Ten Tournament Championship tomorrow (which is technically now today) at noon. The weather is expected to be sunny and warm for the last game of the year in the conference.
It's late, again, so I'll leave off here and I'll try to blog something after I get some sleep and the sun comes up.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Baseball Hangover Blogging
I'm feeling a bit out of sorts this morning. For the last three days, I've been getting ready to head towards Ann Arbor at this time. This morning, I'm back behind the keyboard as the tournament doesn't resume until 3:30pm this afternoon. What no BP until after lunch? Who's heard of such nonsense? (I can already see where next week's return to work routine is going to be unpleasant.)
In spite of my baseball hangover this AM, I'm going to try and blog along. Let's begin with last night's late tilt between Minnesota and Ohio State. As I reported much earlier this morning (see previous post), the Gophers beat the Bucks, 7-3. For the third straight game, Minnesota got a solid effort out of it's starter.
Friday night's strong start was courtesy of Dustin Brabender, who in 7.1 innings gave up three runs on eight hits and four walks. The Buckeyes were also hurt by three hits, including two doubles, and three RBI from number nine hitter catcher Chris Herbert.
This is why I had "a feeling" about Minnesota. The Gophers are doing exactly what I thought they might--pitch very well and get some timely hitting. Either OSU or Michigan is going to beat Minnesota twice to claim the automatic NCAA Tournament spot. That seems like a large task right about now.
I'm guessing OSU will start Jake Hale. I'm less certain of whom Michigan will send to the mound. If healthy, perhaps, Zach Putnam? A battle of freshman righthanders in an elimination game would be interesting. It's supposed to be warm and sunny, as apparently summer has decided to arrive on Memorial Weekend.
Let me complain some here, too. What would this site be without me whining, anyway? Why on Earth is the Big East Baseball Tournament getting so much love? Seriously, who in the BE is a baseball power? Yes, Notre Dame is good, I'm not here to debate that. However, is the Irish baseball program really significantly better, either now or historically, than the programs at Minnesota, Ohio State or Michigan (who, oh by the way, beat ND)?
I'm not here trying to diminish the Big East. I'm really not. Anyone who visits here even semi-regularly knows I'm always promoting baseball in the snowbelt, not bashing it. (Hey, I might even start covering the BE next season.) I'm just trying to get some perspective on why the BE has got a prime spot on CSTV.com's Championship Central page and the Big Ten gets the usual red headed step child treatment? Live blogging from the Big East site, but not one from the Big Ten? It's makes it look like the Big Ten is far less a baseball power than the Big East, which is simply incorrect.
I know, I know. The Big Ten blows, right? They have a horrible RPI. Well, kids, you are correct. Last I checked, the RPI numbers do favor the Big East over the Big Ten--by one whole stinking spot. The BE is 14th, the Big Ten 15th. Yeah, that's a major difference.
Critics might argue that Notre Dame, Connecticut and St. John's all have better pseudo-RPI numbers than anyone in the Big Ten outside of Michigan and ND is higher than the Wolverines. True, but I'll take Minnesota and Ohio State over UConn and STJ and you can keep your numbers. The difference between the schools is minimal, and theoretic, at best.
In the end, I realize that by giving love to the Big East, CSTV (and everyone else) are pandering to the Boston-New York-Philadelphia mega fanbase. I'm nuts, not stupid. The players and coaches in the Big Ten don't get a fair shake on this one and it's my job to point that out.
I got an email from college baseball blogging buddy, Joanna, about my ranting on umpires. Seems the Big XII folks aren't very impressed with their men in blue, either. Does anyone think the umps in their conference are, generally, doing a good job? What can be done to correct it, if not?
I had best stop here to get some other things done before it is time to pack up for Ann Arbor. Before I go, I have to point out that Big Ten Hardball set a record for hits yesterday and has already surpassed the highest monthly total I've ever had. As always, I thank you for stopping in.
In spite of my baseball hangover this AM, I'm going to try and blog along. Let's begin with last night's late tilt between Minnesota and Ohio State. As I reported much earlier this morning (see previous post), the Gophers beat the Bucks, 7-3. For the third straight game, Minnesota got a solid effort out of it's starter.
Friday night's strong start was courtesy of Dustin Brabender, who in 7.1 innings gave up three runs on eight hits and four walks. The Buckeyes were also hurt by three hits, including two doubles, and three RBI from number nine hitter catcher Chris Herbert.
This is why I had "a feeling" about Minnesota. The Gophers are doing exactly what I thought they might--pitch very well and get some timely hitting. Either OSU or Michigan is going to beat Minnesota twice to claim the automatic NCAA Tournament spot. That seems like a large task right about now.
I'm guessing OSU will start Jake Hale. I'm less certain of whom Michigan will send to the mound. If healthy, perhaps, Zach Putnam? A battle of freshman righthanders in an elimination game would be interesting. It's supposed to be warm and sunny, as apparently summer has decided to arrive on Memorial Weekend.
Let me complain some here, too. What would this site be without me whining, anyway? Why on Earth is the Big East Baseball Tournament getting so much love? Seriously, who in the BE is a baseball power? Yes, Notre Dame is good, I'm not here to debate that. However, is the Irish baseball program really significantly better, either now or historically, than the programs at Minnesota, Ohio State or Michigan (who, oh by the way, beat ND)?
I'm not here trying to diminish the Big East. I'm really not. Anyone who visits here even semi-regularly knows I'm always promoting baseball in the snowbelt, not bashing it. (Hey, I might even start covering the BE next season.) I'm just trying to get some perspective on why the BE has got a prime spot on CSTV.com's Championship Central page and the Big Ten gets the usual red headed step child treatment? Live blogging from the Big East site, but not one from the Big Ten? It's makes it look like the Big Ten is far less a baseball power than the Big East, which is simply incorrect.
I know, I know. The Big Ten blows, right? They have a horrible RPI. Well, kids, you are correct. Last I checked, the RPI numbers do favor the Big East over the Big Ten--by one whole stinking spot. The BE is 14th, the Big Ten 15th. Yeah, that's a major difference.
Critics might argue that Notre Dame, Connecticut and St. John's all have better pseudo-RPI numbers than anyone in the Big Ten outside of Michigan and ND is higher than the Wolverines. True, but I'll take Minnesota and Ohio State over UConn and STJ and you can keep your numbers. The difference between the schools is minimal, and theoretic, at best.
In the end, I realize that by giving love to the Big East, CSTV (and everyone else) are pandering to the Boston-New York-Philadelphia mega fanbase. I'm nuts, not stupid. The players and coaches in the Big Ten don't get a fair shake on this one and it's my job to point that out.
I got an email from college baseball blogging buddy, Joanna, about my ranting on umpires. Seems the Big XII folks aren't very impressed with their men in blue, either. Does anyone think the umps in their conference are, generally, doing a good job? What can be done to correct it, if not?
I had best stop here to get some other things done before it is time to pack up for Ann Arbor. Before I go, I have to point out that Big Ten Hardball set a record for hits yesterday and has already surpassed the highest monthly total I've ever had. As always, I thank you for stopping in.
Friday, May 26, 2006
Big Ten Tournament: Day 3
Four baseball games in one day is quite a few even for me. Yet, I did see the majority of innings played in today's quadruple header played at the Big Ten Tournament. As usual, I continue to learn things, alas some I cannot report, but it was a fun and tiring day. Here's the action that took place.
The day began before lunch with Minnesota dropping Michigan, 6-2. (Remember when I said I had a crazy feeling about Minnesota?) Gopher starter Brian Bull (7-4) pitched gave up only two runs in eight innings to earn the victory. Luke McLean had four hits, Dan Lyons three for Minnesota. Doug Pickens hit a two run homer for Michigan.
In game two, Northwestern sent Purdue home, 8-4. George Kontos pitched a complete game triumph. The righthander did allow twelve hits, but struck out seven en route to his third win of the year. The offensive highlight for NU was rightfielder Antonio Mule's titanic homer to dead centerfield. Mule also paced the attack with three hits.
All-Big Ten shortstop Mitch Hilligoss went 3 for 4 and drove in two Purdue runs. The Boilermakers finished the season at 31-27.
The win over Purdue meant Northwestern got to play in the very next game. However, the results would be much different. The Wildcats dropped game three of the day to Michigan, 8-3, and have been eliminated from the tournament.
Nate Recknagel, Jeff Kunkel and Adam Abraham each had two RBI. Recknagel led the Wolverine hit parade by going 4 for 5 with his sixth dinger. Michigan starter Chris Fetter worked 6.2 innings allowing two runs on seven hits. The freshman righthander also fanned seven.
Mule, again, led the NU offense. He went 3 for 4 with another homerun, his 11th, but it wasn't enough as the 'Cats season ends with a 26-33 record.
The last game of the day has just gone final. Minnesota beat Ohio State, 7-3. (See, I just had this feeling about John Anderson's squad.) I expect the stats to be along shortly, but I will probably finish blogging before then. Use the links on the right to dig out the numbers, if you need them.
This result means OSU will play Michigan tomorrow afternoon with the winner playing the Gophers for the championship. If the Gophers win the late game tomorrow, they will claim the title. If the OSU/Michigan winner goes on to beat the Gophers, then there will be a Sunday game between the two teams to determine who wins the tournament and gets the Big Ten birth in the NCAA's.
Some random observations before calling it a night (and a pretty darn long day, too). It seems to me that the warmer the weather, the better the ball flys at Fisher Stadium. Last I checked, Saturday was scheduled to be the warmest day of the tournament thus far.
Do people actually say "Excuse me" anymore or is that just out of style? I can't tell you how many people walked right in front of me, basically occupying the identical space, without the slightest acknowledgement that I was being inconvenienced.
Yes, I bought my tournament t-shirt. Thanks to Jeff for his suggestion. Jeff, I opted for long sleeve, but if the short sleeve are still around tomorrow, I may put your plan into affect.
College teams, at least those in the Big Ten, bunt too much for my taste. As just one example, number three hitters with no outs and runners on base square around. Maybe I've been too unduly influenced by the pro game, but it seems strange to sacrifice what, in theory, is the best hitter in your lineup. If your best hitter can't be counted on to drive in runs, what makes you think the next guy's odds are better? (In fact, the odds simply can't be better if the next guy's average is lower.)
A tip of the cap to the Fisher Stadium ground crew. After Thursday's nasty thunderstorm and today's early rain, they managed to keep the field playable. Nice job.
The day began before lunch with Minnesota dropping Michigan, 6-2. (Remember when I said I had a crazy feeling about Minnesota?) Gopher starter Brian Bull (7-4) pitched gave up only two runs in eight innings to earn the victory. Luke McLean had four hits, Dan Lyons three for Minnesota. Doug Pickens hit a two run homer for Michigan.
In game two, Northwestern sent Purdue home, 8-4. George Kontos pitched a complete game triumph. The righthander did allow twelve hits, but struck out seven en route to his third win of the year. The offensive highlight for NU was rightfielder Antonio Mule's titanic homer to dead centerfield. Mule also paced the attack with three hits.
All-Big Ten shortstop Mitch Hilligoss went 3 for 4 and drove in two Purdue runs. The Boilermakers finished the season at 31-27.
The win over Purdue meant Northwestern got to play in the very next game. However, the results would be much different. The Wildcats dropped game three of the day to Michigan, 8-3, and have been eliminated from the tournament.
Nate Recknagel, Jeff Kunkel and Adam Abraham each had two RBI. Recknagel led the Wolverine hit parade by going 4 for 5 with his sixth dinger. Michigan starter Chris Fetter worked 6.2 innings allowing two runs on seven hits. The freshman righthander also fanned seven.
Mule, again, led the NU offense. He went 3 for 4 with another homerun, his 11th, but it wasn't enough as the 'Cats season ends with a 26-33 record.
The last game of the day has just gone final. Minnesota beat Ohio State, 7-3. (See, I just had this feeling about John Anderson's squad.) I expect the stats to be along shortly, but I will probably finish blogging before then. Use the links on the right to dig out the numbers, if you need them.
This result means OSU will play Michigan tomorrow afternoon with the winner playing the Gophers for the championship. If the Gophers win the late game tomorrow, they will claim the title. If the OSU/Michigan winner goes on to beat the Gophers, then there will be a Sunday game between the two teams to determine who wins the tournament and gets the Big Ten birth in the NCAA's.
Some random observations before calling it a night (and a pretty darn long day, too). It seems to me that the warmer the weather, the better the ball flys at Fisher Stadium. Last I checked, Saturday was scheduled to be the warmest day of the tournament thus far.
Do people actually say "Excuse me" anymore or is that just out of style? I can't tell you how many people walked right in front of me, basically occupying the identical space, without the slightest acknowledgement that I was being inconvenienced.
Yes, I bought my tournament t-shirt. Thanks to Jeff for his suggestion. Jeff, I opted for long sleeve, but if the short sleeve are still around tomorrow, I may put your plan into affect.
College teams, at least those in the Big Ten, bunt too much for my taste. As just one example, number three hitters with no outs and runners on base square around. Maybe I've been too unduly influenced by the pro game, but it seems strange to sacrifice what, in theory, is the best hitter in your lineup. If your best hitter can't be counted on to drive in runs, what makes you think the next guy's odds are better? (In fact, the odds simply can't be better if the next guy's average is lower.)
A tip of the cap to the Fisher Stadium ground crew. After Thursday's nasty thunderstorm and today's early rain, they managed to keep the field playable. Nice job.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Big Ten Tournament: Day 2
I enjoy the casual atmosphere of batting practice. There is, however, something about batting practice in the morning that I find serene. I don't know what it is about morning BP that I find so comforting, but it is. I think the world would be a better place if I could watch batting practice each morning. Well, fine, my world would be a better place.
Tomorrow, I'll get to enjoy that experience even earlier than I have the last two days. The fifth game of the tournament--Minnesota vs. Michigan--was postponed this evening and re-scheduled for 10am Friday. I guess I'll need to haul my lazy behind out of bed earlier. Of course, there is still plenty o' rain in the forecast for Friday, so the entire schedule tomorrow is dicey.
As for what did occur today, Purdue bounced Illinois, 10-5. Mitch Hilligoss went 3 for 4 with a homer and Spencer Ingaldson was 4 for 6 with three runs scored for the Boilers. Jay Buente (6-4) went the distance giving up all five runs on ten hits.
The Illini got two RBI a piece from Ryan Hastings and Trevor Huisinga. Illinois finishes the year at 29-29.
In the second game, Ohio State stomped on Northwestern, 9-0. Jedidiah Stephen hit a three run homer and Ronnie Bourquin went 3 for 3 with three runs scored to lead the Buckeyes' offense. Eric Fryer also homered for the Buckeyes.
OSU managed to plated six runs on Pitcher of the Year, NU's Dan Brauer. (Only three were earned runs, though.) Brauer lasted eight innings giving up ten hits and not fanning a single OSU batter. Brauer's performance reflected what seemed to be the Wildcats opening game jitters.
Buckeye starter Cory Luebke pitched eight innings allowing only three hits. Rory Meister came in to close out the affair.
Now, if I am correct, which I admit is the minority of the time, we have a quadruple header on tap for Friday. I suspect the weather may force more games into Saturday and, possibly, Sunday, but I'll try to get to Ray Fisher Stadium early just to see if anyone is in action around breakfast. (Technically, by ten in the morning I'm on breakfast number two, but that's a story for another day.)
Oh, remember those tournament t-shirts I lamented not seeing yesterday? Well, lo and behold, they arrived promptly around the ninth inning of game one today. (Note: I'm not taking credit for this development.) Of course, yours truly was nearing the end of his cash supply, so I have to wait for tomorrow to live up to my end of the deal. Hey, if they were there yesterday, when the tournament began, I would own one now.
I have now seen five games at Fisher Stadium in three days (I was at last Saturday's contest between Iowa and Michigan), and there is a theme that is repeating. The fans don't like the umpires. No, not personally. Every group of fans think their guys aren't getting the calls. Every fan base believes the officiating in Big Ten contests is poor, at best. I don't care which Big Ten school you support, all can agree--the umps stink.
My initial reaction to this is two-fold and completely contradictory. First, as I think the Big Ten dismisses baseball in general (which is the topic of another post I need to get to), there might be a very good chance that they don't hire quality umpires or just don't care about how well they perform their jobs. Since baseball is not a revenue sport, why should they care? (See also: If an ump is lousy, but no one is there to see it, does it really matter?)
The opposite thought is probably one you've heard before. If I hate the officiating because I think my team is getting screwed. And you hate the officiating because you think your team is getting screwed is it possible that the officials are actually just calling it even? Or, possibly, calling it accurately?
Sure, the critics could argue that bad umping, even it is equally poor for both sides, is still bad and should be unacceptable. Point taken. However, to think they are all bad across the board seems like stretch, doesn't it? See, I told you I had conflicting thoughts on this.
Well, that's all for tonight edition of BTH. If you are at the tournament, stop by and say hello. I'll be the guy at the t-shirt stand looking dumbfounded trying to figure out whether to get the long sleeve or short-sleeve model.
Tomorrow, I'll get to enjoy that experience even earlier than I have the last two days. The fifth game of the tournament--Minnesota vs. Michigan--was postponed this evening and re-scheduled for 10am Friday. I guess I'll need to haul my lazy behind out of bed earlier. Of course, there is still plenty o' rain in the forecast for Friday, so the entire schedule tomorrow is dicey.
As for what did occur today, Purdue bounced Illinois, 10-5. Mitch Hilligoss went 3 for 4 with a homer and Spencer Ingaldson was 4 for 6 with three runs scored for the Boilers. Jay Buente (6-4) went the distance giving up all five runs on ten hits.
The Illini got two RBI a piece from Ryan Hastings and Trevor Huisinga. Illinois finishes the year at 29-29.
In the second game, Ohio State stomped on Northwestern, 9-0. Jedidiah Stephen hit a three run homer and Ronnie Bourquin went 3 for 3 with three runs scored to lead the Buckeyes' offense. Eric Fryer also homered for the Buckeyes.
OSU managed to plated six runs on Pitcher of the Year, NU's Dan Brauer. (Only three were earned runs, though.) Brauer lasted eight innings giving up ten hits and not fanning a single OSU batter. Brauer's performance reflected what seemed to be the Wildcats opening game jitters.
Buckeye starter Cory Luebke pitched eight innings allowing only three hits. Rory Meister came in to close out the affair.
Now, if I am correct, which I admit is the minority of the time, we have a quadruple header on tap for Friday. I suspect the weather may force more games into Saturday and, possibly, Sunday, but I'll try to get to Ray Fisher Stadium early just to see if anyone is in action around breakfast. (Technically, by ten in the morning I'm on breakfast number two, but that's a story for another day.)
Oh, remember those tournament t-shirts I lamented not seeing yesterday? Well, lo and behold, they arrived promptly around the ninth inning of game one today. (Note: I'm not taking credit for this development.) Of course, yours truly was nearing the end of his cash supply, so I have to wait for tomorrow to live up to my end of the deal. Hey, if they were there yesterday, when the tournament began, I would own one now.
I have now seen five games at Fisher Stadium in three days (I was at last Saturday's contest between Iowa and Michigan), and there is a theme that is repeating. The fans don't like the umpires. No, not personally. Every group of fans think their guys aren't getting the calls. Every fan base believes the officiating in Big Ten contests is poor, at best. I don't care which Big Ten school you support, all can agree--the umps stink.
My initial reaction to this is two-fold and completely contradictory. First, as I think the Big Ten dismisses baseball in general (which is the topic of another post I need to get to), there might be a very good chance that they don't hire quality umpires or just don't care about how well they perform their jobs. Since baseball is not a revenue sport, why should they care? (See also: If an ump is lousy, but no one is there to see it, does it really matter?)
The opposite thought is probably one you've heard before. If I hate the officiating because I think my team is getting screwed. And you hate the officiating because you think your team is getting screwed is it possible that the officials are actually just calling it even? Or, possibly, calling it accurately?
Sure, the critics could argue that bad umping, even it is equally poor for both sides, is still bad and should be unacceptable. Point taken. However, to think they are all bad across the board seems like stretch, doesn't it? See, I told you I had conflicting thoughts on this.
Well, that's all for tonight edition of BTH. If you are at the tournament, stop by and say hello. I'll be the guy at the t-shirt stand looking dumbfounded trying to figure out whether to get the long sleeve or short-sleeve model.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Big Ten Tournament: Day 1
It was a day that held true to form. The higher seeds prevailed and with each side sending it's traditional Friday starter to the mound, pitching was the story of the day.
Behind a strong performance from Cole DeVries, Minnesota beat Illinois, 8-1. (Note: The Gophers have a new website or, at least, a new design. I wasn't crazy about the old one, so I embrace the change.) DeVries (7-3) and reliever Andy Cole combined on a one hitter. Mike Mee and Chris Herbert each drove in a pair of runs to power the offense.
The nightcap went twelve innings before Jedidiah Stephen drove home the winner leading Ohio State to a 2-1 triumph over Purdue. Big Ten Freshman of the Year, J.B. Shuck earned the win in two innings of relief. Starter Dan DeLucia worked the first ten innings allowing seven hits, two walks and the lone Boilermaker tally.
Purdue could not help starter Dan Sattler who worked nine solid innings of his own. The righthander yielded six hits, three walks and one run.
Tomorrow's action looks like this. At noon, Illinois and Purdue will play an elimination game. At 3:30pm, Ohio State will take on Northwestern. The tripleheader concludes with Minnesota taking on #23 Michigan.
For those of you not in Ann Arbor, and much to my pleasant surprise, the Big Ten has set-up a special Tournament Central webpage. It claims to provide live streaming video of the games. I cannot attest to that, as I was at the games, so proceed with that caveat in mind.
(As an aside, here's a question for the Big Ten. How about a Conference Tournament T-Shirt? I got one about ten years ago, but I can't get one now? Are we regressing or do the shirts arrive tomorrow? Look, I'm not only offering you advertising space for free, but I'm willing to pay for the ad. Work with me here.)
All and all it was a very good day of baseball. Tomorrow, we get an additional game plus the top two seeds, Michigan and Northwestern, take to the field for the first time in this tournament. The weather forecast, however, isn't as promising. Let's hope they are wrong.
Behind a strong performance from Cole DeVries, Minnesota beat Illinois, 8-1. (Note: The Gophers have a new website or, at least, a new design. I wasn't crazy about the old one, so I embrace the change.) DeVries (7-3) and reliever Andy Cole combined on a one hitter. Mike Mee and Chris Herbert each drove in a pair of runs to power the offense.
The nightcap went twelve innings before Jedidiah Stephen drove home the winner leading Ohio State to a 2-1 triumph over Purdue. Big Ten Freshman of the Year, J.B. Shuck earned the win in two innings of relief. Starter Dan DeLucia worked the first ten innings allowing seven hits, two walks and the lone Boilermaker tally.
Purdue could not help starter Dan Sattler who worked nine solid innings of his own. The righthander yielded six hits, three walks and one run.
Tomorrow's action looks like this. At noon, Illinois and Purdue will play an elimination game. At 3:30pm, Ohio State will take on Northwestern. The tripleheader concludes with Minnesota taking on #23 Michigan.
For those of you not in Ann Arbor, and much to my pleasant surprise, the Big Ten has set-up a special Tournament Central webpage. It claims to provide live streaming video of the games. I cannot attest to that, as I was at the games, so proceed with that caveat in mind.
(As an aside, here's a question for the Big Ten. How about a Conference Tournament T-Shirt? I got one about ten years ago, but I can't get one now? Are we regressing or do the shirts arrive tomorrow? Look, I'm not only offering you advertising space for free, but I'm willing to pay for the ad. Work with me here.)
All and all it was a very good day of baseball. Tomorrow, we get an additional game plus the top two seeds, Michigan and Northwestern, take to the field for the first time in this tournament. The weather forecast, however, isn't as promising. Let's hope they are wrong.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Thoughts Before The Big Ten Tournament
I'm heading out to Ann Arbor tomorrow to catch the opening games of the Big Ten Tournament. I'm hoping to be at a majority of the games over the next four days, so posts may be less frequent or arrive at even stranger hours than they do now.
If things go even close to my plan, this may be the most live baseball I've seen back-to-back ever. At minimum, nine games in four days. That's a fan's dream come true. With a NCAA Tournament spot at stake, there's also more than a bit of tension built in. It should be very entertaining baseball. Hope all of you can make it out to Ray Fisher Stadium.
Here are just some of my thoughts before the conference tournament opens.
The Favorite: #23 Michigan
Now nationally ranked, the Wolverines are hosts and have to be the front-runners. Coming into the tournament on a roll--including a sweep of Iowa and a triumph over Notre Dame. Pitching (Paul Hammond and Chris Fetter were first team All-Big Ten choices, Zach Putnam landed on the second team) and defense have gotten them to this point. Toss in timely hitting and you have the recipe for success in the post-season, as well.
The Next Most Likely To Win: Ohio State
This team is loaded offensively (first in team batting average, obp, slugging) and have more than enough pitching (first in team ERA) to win this tournament. Whether their bats can overcome what will be everyone's best pitching is the question. A potential second round encounter with NU's Dan Brauer would be very, very interesting.
The Darkhorse: Purdue
Early this year, Purdue looked like the team to beat in the Big Ten. Then, the bottom fell out. They still have some of the best hitters in the league--Mitch Hilligoss, Ryne White, Spencer Ingaldson, Eric Wolfe--and some better than average arms. Can the Boilermakers make up for a disappointing regular season in Ann Arbor?
My Crazy Pick: Minnesota
No, they don't hit much, but they pitch pretty well (Cole DeVries and Brian Bull are a solid 1-2 combo) and John Anderson's teams play well in this tournament. They took two of three from Ohio State in Columbus two weeks ago and I've just got a feeling about the Gophers. Go ahead, call me crazy.
RPI Numbers:
Michigan-53
Ohio State-91
Minnesota-105
Purdue-115
Illinois-128
Northwestern- 142
Some Of The Players I'm Looking Forward To Watching (that I haven't seen already):
Dan Brauer, Northwestern
Antonio Mule, Northwestern
Mitch Hilligoss, Purdue
Ryne White, Purdue
Kyle Baran, Minnesota
Cole DeVries, Minnesota
Jacob Howell, Ohio State
Ryan Snowden, Illinois
Shawn Roof, Illinois
Forecast (from the BTH Weather Center):
Wednesday- It's supposed to be very nice for both games. May need a light weight coat early, but if it was like today, it will be almost perfect by the first pitch. Storms may arrive at night. Thankfully, only day games tomorrow.
Thursday- Here's where things get iffy. I've seen forecasts with more sun than rain and vice versa. It's supposed to be warm, though. Maybe into the 80's. Let's hope the rain stays scattered.
Friday- Again, storms are in the forecast. Of course, so is sunshine. When either arrive and for how long they stay are the questions. Back to the 70's.
Saturday- Sunny. Warmer. Mid-80's forecasted. No talk of rain. Yet.
Sunday- Partly Sunny. There was even talk of 90 degrees. Come on, they aren't even sure about Thursday, can they really know much about Sunday now?
Summary- It's Michigan. It's Spring. Pack one of everything--shorts, sweats, t-shirts, umbrella.
If things go even close to my plan, this may be the most live baseball I've seen back-to-back ever. At minimum, nine games in four days. That's a fan's dream come true. With a NCAA Tournament spot at stake, there's also more than a bit of tension built in. It should be very entertaining baseball. Hope all of you can make it out to Ray Fisher Stadium.
Here are just some of my thoughts before the conference tournament opens.
The Favorite: #23 Michigan
Now nationally ranked, the Wolverines are hosts and have to be the front-runners. Coming into the tournament on a roll--including a sweep of Iowa and a triumph over Notre Dame. Pitching (Paul Hammond and Chris Fetter were first team All-Big Ten choices, Zach Putnam landed on the second team) and defense have gotten them to this point. Toss in timely hitting and you have the recipe for success in the post-season, as well.
The Next Most Likely To Win: Ohio State
This team is loaded offensively (first in team batting average, obp, slugging) and have more than enough pitching (first in team ERA) to win this tournament. Whether their bats can overcome what will be everyone's best pitching is the question. A potential second round encounter with NU's Dan Brauer would be very, very interesting.
The Darkhorse: Purdue
Early this year, Purdue looked like the team to beat in the Big Ten. Then, the bottom fell out. They still have some of the best hitters in the league--Mitch Hilligoss, Ryne White, Spencer Ingaldson, Eric Wolfe--and some better than average arms. Can the Boilermakers make up for a disappointing regular season in Ann Arbor?
My Crazy Pick: Minnesota
No, they don't hit much, but they pitch pretty well (Cole DeVries and Brian Bull are a solid 1-2 combo) and John Anderson's teams play well in this tournament. They took two of three from Ohio State in Columbus two weeks ago and I've just got a feeling about the Gophers. Go ahead, call me crazy.
RPI Numbers:
Michigan-53
Ohio State-91
Minnesota-105
Purdue-115
Illinois-128
Northwestern- 142
Some Of The Players I'm Looking Forward To Watching (that I haven't seen already):
Dan Brauer, Northwestern
Antonio Mule, Northwestern
Mitch Hilligoss, Purdue
Ryne White, Purdue
Kyle Baran, Minnesota
Cole DeVries, Minnesota
Jacob Howell, Ohio State
Ryan Snowden, Illinois
Shawn Roof, Illinois
Forecast (from the BTH Weather Center):
Wednesday- It's supposed to be very nice for both games. May need a light weight coat early, but if it was like today, it will be almost perfect by the first pitch. Storms may arrive at night. Thankfully, only day games tomorrow.
Thursday- Here's where things get iffy. I've seen forecasts with more sun than rain and vice versa. It's supposed to be warm, though. Maybe into the 80's. Let's hope the rain stays scattered.
Friday- Again, storms are in the forecast. Of course, so is sunshine. When either arrive and for how long they stay are the questions. Back to the 70's.
Saturday- Sunny. Warmer. Mid-80's forecasted. No talk of rain. Yet.
Sunday- Partly Sunny. There was even talk of 90 degrees. Come on, they aren't even sure about Thursday, can they really know much about Sunday now?
Summary- It's Michigan. It's Spring. Pack one of everything--shorts, sweats, t-shirts, umbrella.
Monday, May 22, 2006
Official Press Release
For those of you curious about the Big Ten Tournament's history, the conference gives some background amongst it's seven page tournament press release. (Note: it's a .pdf file.)
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Records Against Each Other
Here is how the six teams in the Big Ten Tournament faired against each other this year.
Michigan
1-3 vs. Northwestern
2-2 @ Illinois
4-0 vs. Ohio State
3-1 @ Purdue
3-1 @ Minnesota
Northwestern
3-1 @ Michigan
Did not play Ohio State
3-1 vs. Illinois
2-2 @ Purdue
2-2 vs. Minnesota
Ohio State
0-4 @ Michigan
Did not play Northwestern
3-1 vs. Illinois
3-1 vs. Purdue
1-2 vs. Minnesota
Illinois
2-2 vs. Michigan
1-3 @ Northwestern
1-3 @ Ohio State
2-2 vs. Purdue
3-1 @ Minnesota
Purdue
1-3 vs. Michigan
2-2 vs. Northwestern
1-3 @ Ohio State
2-2 @ Illinois
Did not play Minnesota
Minnesota
1-3 vs. Michigan
2-2 @ Northwestern
2-1 @ Ohio State
1-3 vs. Illinois
1-3 vs. Purdue
I'm not sure what we gain from this data. (Other than I can change font colors.) We do learn that Minnesota is looking for revenge against opening round opponent, Illinois. So, too, is Purdue. The Boilermakers got handed the same 1-3 record in Columbus versus Ohio State that the Gophers left Champaign with.
However, this is a double elimination tournament--you can toss out records and cliches at random.
There is much more to type, but it's late and we know I have to get up early and tell my manager I need a few days off. More to come tomorrow. Maybe I'll even get to telling you just how great the first game of Saturday's doubleheader between Iowa and Michigan was. Certainly, I hope to provide even more meaningless information about the tournament, as well.
Michigan
1-3 vs. Northwestern
2-2 @ Illinois
4-0 vs. Ohio State
3-1 @ Purdue
3-1 @ Minnesota
Northwestern
3-1 @ Michigan
Did not play Ohio State
3-1 vs. Illinois
2-2 @ Purdue
2-2 vs. Minnesota
Ohio State
0-4 @ Michigan
Did not play Northwestern
3-1 vs. Illinois
3-1 vs. Purdue
1-2 vs. Minnesota
Illinois
2-2 vs. Michigan
1-3 @ Northwestern
1-3 @ Ohio State
2-2 vs. Purdue
3-1 @ Minnesota
Purdue
1-3 vs. Michigan
2-2 vs. Northwestern
1-3 @ Ohio State
2-2 @ Illinois
Did not play Minnesota
Minnesota
1-3 vs. Michigan
2-2 @ Northwestern
2-1 @ Ohio State
1-3 vs. Illinois
1-3 vs. Purdue
I'm not sure what we gain from this data. (Other than I can change font colors.) We do learn that Minnesota is looking for revenge against opening round opponent, Illinois. So, too, is Purdue. The Boilermakers got handed the same 1-3 record in Columbus versus Ohio State that the Gophers left Champaign with.
However, this is a double elimination tournament--you can toss out records and cliches at random.
There is much more to type, but it's late and we know I have to get up early and tell my manager I need a few days off. More to come tomorrow. Maybe I'll even get to telling you just how great the first game of Saturday's doubleheader between Iowa and Michigan was. Certainly, I hope to provide even more meaningless information about the tournament, as well.
Big Ten Tournament Field
Here is how the Big Ten Baseball Tournament shapes up. On Wednesday, Minnesota (fourth seed) will play Illinois (fifth seed) at noon. In the second game, Ohio State (third seed) will take on Purdue (sixth seed) at 3:30pm.
On Thursday, the lowest seeded winner of those two contests takes on host Michigan (first seed) at 7pm. The winner with the highest seed will play Northwestern (second seed) at 3:30pm. The opening game of the day, at noon, will be the elimination game between the losers of Wednesday's games.
After that, and, perhaps, before my attempt at an explanation, it's best to refer to the bracket. There will be another tripleheader on Friday and a doubleheader Saturday that may determine the tournament champion. There is a chance that a single Sunday game may be necessary.
As of this moment, I'm hoping to be at most of these games. My boss doesn't know this yet, so don't ruin my little surprise for him. For those in search of tickets to the Big Ten Tournament, I'm afraid I don't have an ounce of information.
On Thursday, the lowest seeded winner of those two contests takes on host Michigan (first seed) at 7pm. The winner with the highest seed will play Northwestern (second seed) at 3:30pm. The opening game of the day, at noon, will be the elimination game between the losers of Wednesday's games.
After that, and, perhaps, before my attempt at an explanation, it's best to refer to the bracket. There will be another tripleheader on Friday and a doubleheader Saturday that may determine the tournament champion. There is a chance that a single Sunday game may be necessary.
As of this moment, I'm hoping to be at most of these games. My boss doesn't know this yet, so don't ruin my little surprise for him. For those in search of tickets to the Big Ten Tournament, I'm afraid I don't have an ounce of information.
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