Zach Boswell goes 2 for 4 with a pair of RBI in leading Indiana past Hartford, 4-2. Iowa splits a doubleheader with IUPUI-Ft. Wayne. The first contest went the Hawkeyes way, 5-1, but the second affair was Ft. Wayne's, 1-0, in ten innings. Jeff Maitland improved to 2-0 on the year in the opener allowing six hits in seven innings while fanning seven. (That's far too long a sentence. My apologies.)
Michigan State dropped Western Illinois, 7-0. Ryan Basham had three RBI and two hits on the afternoon. Minnesota beat Missouri State, 11-5. Mike Mee and Andy Hunter each had three hits and Jeff DeSmidt and Sean Kommerstad had three RBI a piece.
Ohio State swept a doubleheader from Vermont. The Buckeyes took game one, 14-1. Game two saw OSU prevail, 6-5. Big Ten Player of the Week Ronnie Bourquin had three hits and drove in five in the opener. Wes Schirtzinger had two hits and the GWRBI in the nightcap. Purdue pounded Chicago State, 16-6. Ryne White had three hits, including his first homerun, and four RBI. Neal Gorka also went yard for the Boilermakers.
In the last score I have been able to track down, Michigan slipped past Oakland, 9-8. Mike Schmidt had a homer amongst his three hits for the Wolverines. The teams will play a doubleheader tomorrow as poor weather forced one of today's tilts to be moved.
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Links For The Weekend
I've decided to stay up a bit longer and provide some links to the weekend's games. The national perspectives aren't available until tomorrow, so they go missing tonight. Games of note to me, Northwestern at Pepperdine and Penn State's visit to Arizona State. Two Big Ten clubs facing off against a couple of traditional college baseball powers.
I'm also intrigued by Minnesota's battle with Missouri State. Didn't the Bears knock Ohio State out of the NCAA field a few years back? Back when they were still Southwest Missouri State? Seems to me like they did. Maybe a Buckeye or Bear baseball follower can confirm my recollection?
Friday 03/24/06
Illinois @ Cornell 9:30 AM
Ohio State @ Vermont 10:00 AM
Northwestern @ Pepperdine 12:00 PM
Ohio State @ Vermont 1:00 PM (Game Two)
Hartford @ Indiana 3:00 PM
Oakland @ Michigan 3:05 PM
Minnesota @ Missouri State 7:00 PM
Penn State @ Arizona State 9:00 PM
Saturday 03/25/06
Northwestern @ Pepperdine 11:00 AM
Western Illinois @ Michigan State 12:00 PM
Chicago State @ Purdue 1:00 PM
IUPU-Fort Wayne @ Iowa 1:00 PM
Oakland @ Michigan 1:05 PM
Minnesota @ Missouri State 2:00 PM
Michigan State @ Western Illinois 2:00 PM
Hartford @ Indiana 3:00 PM
Chicago State @ Purdue 3:30 PM (Game Two)
Penn State @ Arizona State 6:00 PM
Oakland @ Michigan TBA (Game Two)
IUPUI-Fort Wayne @ Iowa TBA (Game Two)
Sunday 03/26/06
Northwestern @ Pepperdine 11:00 AM
Hartford @ Indiana 12:00 PM
Western Illinois @ Michigan State 12:00 PM
Penn State @ Arizona State 12:00 PM
IUPU-Fort Wayne @ Iowa 1:00 PM
Chicago State @ Purdue 1:00 PM
Minnesota @ Missouri State 1:00 PM
Oakland @ Michigan 1:05 PM
I'm also intrigued by Minnesota's battle with Missouri State. Didn't the Bears knock Ohio State out of the NCAA field a few years back? Back when they were still Southwest Missouri State? Seems to me like they did. Maybe a Buckeye or Bear baseball follower can confirm my recollection?
Friday 03/24/06
Illinois @ Cornell 9:30 AM
Ohio State @ Vermont 10:00 AM
Northwestern @ Pepperdine 12:00 PM
Ohio State @ Vermont 1:00 PM (Game Two)
Hartford @ Indiana 3:00 PM
Oakland @ Michigan 3:05 PM
Minnesota @ Missouri State 7:00 PM
Penn State @ Arizona State 9:00 PM
Saturday 03/25/06
Northwestern @ Pepperdine 11:00 AM
Western Illinois @ Michigan State 12:00 PM
Chicago State @ Purdue 1:00 PM
IUPU-Fort Wayne @ Iowa 1:00 PM
Oakland @ Michigan 1:05 PM
Minnesota @ Missouri State 2:00 PM
Michigan State @ Western Illinois 2:00 PM
Hartford @ Indiana 3:00 PM
Chicago State @ Purdue 3:30 PM (Game Two)
Penn State @ Arizona State 6:00 PM
Oakland @ Michigan TBA (Game Two)
IUPUI-Fort Wayne @ Iowa TBA (Game Two)
Sunday 03/26/06
Northwestern @ Pepperdine 11:00 AM
Hartford @ Indiana 12:00 PM
Western Illinois @ Michigan State 12:00 PM
Penn State @ Arizona State 12:00 PM
IUPU-Fort Wayne @ Iowa 1:00 PM
Chicago State @ Purdue 1:00 PM
Minnesota @ Missouri State 1:00 PM
Oakland @ Michigan 1:05 PM
Back To Blogging
I'll never catch up on my week long absence, so instead of explaining or whining over my departure, I think I'll just pick up my baseball blogging where I left off. Here are some Big Ten baseball links I've stumbled upon.
The Daily Collegian's Chris Weeden looks at Penn State's red hot hitting Scott Gummo. Ryan Long of The Daily Iowan notes the Hawkeyes are still looking to go yard.
Of course, as spring reaches this portion of the world after the teams arrive, the cancellations and postponed games appear with greater frequency. IU vs. Valpo, Iowa vs. IPFW, Purdue vs. Indiana State and Penn State's home opener vs. Bucknell all got affected by the elements. No, I won't begin ranting about the inequity of it all. Not today, anyway.
Somewhat to my surprise, I see Purdue garnered some Top 25 votes in the coaches poll. Sure, it's only seven votes, but if the Boilermakers can keep up their early season pace, I would suspect a Top 25 spot isn't out of the question.
I'll apologize in advance to both of us as I may not have time for the usual weekend preview link post. I've got a retirement party tomorrow night and various other adult responsibilities to attend to this weekend. I hope to sneak over to Ann Arbor to watch Oakland (the school that let me in) and Michigan do battle Saturday afternoon. If I make it out to Ray Fisher Stadium, hopefully, I'll have some photos to share. As always, thanks for stopping in.
The Daily Collegian's Chris Weeden looks at Penn State's red hot hitting Scott Gummo. Ryan Long of The Daily Iowan notes the Hawkeyes are still looking to go yard.
Of course, as spring reaches this portion of the world after the teams arrive, the cancellations and postponed games appear with greater frequency. IU vs. Valpo, Iowa vs. IPFW, Purdue vs. Indiana State and Penn State's home opener vs. Bucknell all got affected by the elements. No, I won't begin ranting about the inequity of it all. Not today, anyway.
Somewhat to my surprise, I see Purdue garnered some Top 25 votes in the coaches poll. Sure, it's only seven votes, but if the Boilermakers can keep up their early season pace, I would suspect a Top 25 spot isn't out of the question.
I'll apologize in advance to both of us as I may not have time for the usual weekend preview link post. I've got a retirement party tomorrow night and various other adult responsibilities to attend to this weekend. I hope to sneak over to Ann Arbor to watch Oakland (the school that let me in) and Michigan do battle Saturday afternoon. If I make it out to Ray Fisher Stadium, hopefully, I'll have some photos to share. As always, thanks for stopping in.
Friday, March 17, 2006
The Weekend Ahead
I know the majority of you are far too pre-occupied with March Madness to spend much time here this weekend, but hits have been fairly steady at Big Ten Hardball and I'd like to take this moment to thank those of you who stop in. I've noticed that many visitors are from Big Ten country and I hope that's indicative of the interest in college baseball in this portion of the land. Again, thanks for clicking over.
I've altered the weekend links format just a bit. I've provided the listing by school and not by day. I'm not sure if I like it or not. I'm also including links to some national perspectives. (Although, I suspect my heavy emphasis on linking led to a recent investigation of BTH as a potential spammer. Obviously, I was cleared of all charges.)
Here's what lies ahead for the Big Ten this weekend.
Illinois
Friday vs. Northern Iowa
Saturday vs. Illinois-Chicago
Sunday vs. Massachusetts
Indiana
Friday: Hoosiers 10 Vermont 6 (box)
Saturday vs. Illinois-Chicago
Iowa
Friday vs. Notre Dame (yes, again.)
Michigan
Friday: Wolverines 3 George Washington 0 (box)
Saturday vs. Winthrop
Sunday vs. Wagner
Michigan State
Friday, Saturday & Sunday @ Ohio
Minnesota
Friday, Saturday & Sunday @ Louisiana-Lafayette
Northwestern
Saturday & Sunday @ Santa Clara
Ohio State
Sunday vs. Massachusetts
Purdue
Friday: Boilermakers 7 St. Louis 1 (box)
Saturday & Sunday @ St. Louis
Penn State (.pdf file)
Saturday & Sunday @ Furman
On to the rest of the nation, where Baseball America's Will Kimmey gives his take on the weekend. In Breadcrumbs Back To Omaha, Boyd Nation provides his usual array of stats and his guess at the tournament field. Amongst other things, CSTV.com's Eric Sorenson wonders aloud in his Thursday's Thoughts about the make-up of the tournament field, as well.
Enjoy all the hoops and baseball action.
I've altered the weekend links format just a bit. I've provided the listing by school and not by day. I'm not sure if I like it or not. I'm also including links to some national perspectives. (Although, I suspect my heavy emphasis on linking led to a recent investigation of BTH as a potential spammer. Obviously, I was cleared of all charges.)
Here's what lies ahead for the Big Ten this weekend.
Illinois
Friday vs. Northern Iowa
Saturday vs. Illinois-Chicago
Sunday vs. Massachusetts
Indiana
Friday: Hoosiers 10 Vermont 6 (box)
Saturday vs. Illinois-Chicago
Iowa
Friday vs. Notre Dame (yes, again.)
Michigan
Friday: Wolverines 3 George Washington 0 (box)
Saturday vs. Winthrop
Sunday vs. Wagner
Michigan State
Friday, Saturday & Sunday @ Ohio
Minnesota
Friday, Saturday & Sunday @ Louisiana-Lafayette
Northwestern
Saturday & Sunday @ Santa Clara
Ohio State
Sunday vs. Massachusetts
Purdue
Friday: Boilermakers 7 St. Louis 1 (box)
Saturday & Sunday @ St. Louis
Penn State (.pdf file)
Saturday & Sunday @ Furman
On to the rest of the nation, where Baseball America's Will Kimmey gives his take on the weekend. In Breadcrumbs Back To Omaha, Boyd Nation provides his usual array of stats and his guess at the tournament field. Amongst other things, CSTV.com's Eric Sorenson wonders aloud in his Thursday's Thoughts about the make-up of the tournament field, as well.
Enjoy all the hoops and baseball action.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
IU, Iowa Win
Indiana rolled over Fairfield, 15-2, today. IU's Zach Boswell hit his second homerun of the campaign and collected four RBI. Hoosier 3B Steve Head went 4 for 5. Clint Crosier notched his first win going six innings striking out nine batters.
Travis Sweet's walk-off double led Iowa past Southern Illinois, 4-3. Hawkeye closer Tim Gudex posted his second win.
Travis Sweet's walk-off double led Iowa past Southern Illinois, 4-3. Hawkeye closer Tim Gudex posted his second win.
Radio Waves
Campus Newspaper Coverage
I found three reviews of the Big Ten college baseball weekend from the respective college newspapers.
Jason Grodsky of the Daily Illini pens this review of Illinois' weekend.
Michigan Daily's David Murray looks back on how the Wolverines fared with a special emphasis on Craig Murray's outing.
The week that was for Penn State baseball is recalled by Corey Mclaughlin of the Daily Collegian.
Jason Grodsky of the Daily Illini pens this review of Illinois' weekend.
Michigan Daily's David Murray looks back on how the Wolverines fared with a special emphasis on Craig Murray's outing.
The week that was for Penn State baseball is recalled by Corey Mclaughlin of the Daily Collegian.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Playing Catch Up
I'm pressed for time, but I do want to review what has happened since Saturday. Illinois lost to Notre Dame, 4-2, on Sunday. The Illini got then got pounded on by Texas A&M, 11-1. Josh Lewis pitched a complete game gem as Indiana won on Monday, 3-1, over Northern Iowa. Today, the Hoosiers lost in ten innings to Bradley, 6-5.
Louisiana-Lafayette beat Iowa Sunday, 3-2, and the Hawkeyes fell again Monday. Notre Dame beat Iowa, 6-2. Michigan beat Pacific Sunday by a 13-9 count. Minnesota shoutout Illinois State in the final game of the Metrodome Tournament, 9-0. The Gophers won again today beating New Orleans, 6-4.
Ohio State knocked around Bethune-Cookman on Sunday, 9-1. Saturday's game between Purdue and Missouri that got interrupted by bad weather resumed Sunday and the Tigers prevailed, 22-2. There was another weather delay in the regularly scheduled Sunday contest, but the Boilers rebounded from the earlier pounding and won, 8-6. After taking two of three from the Tigers, Purdue beat Missouri State today, 7-5.
Aaron Markowitz of Penn State was named the Big Ten Pitcher of the Week. Ohio State's Matt Angle got the nod as conference Player of the Week.
Louisiana-Lafayette beat Iowa Sunday, 3-2, and the Hawkeyes fell again Monday. Notre Dame beat Iowa, 6-2. Michigan beat Pacific Sunday by a 13-9 count. Minnesota shoutout Illinois State in the final game of the Metrodome Tournament, 9-0. The Gophers won again today beating New Orleans, 6-4.
Ohio State knocked around Bethune-Cookman on Sunday, 9-1. Saturday's game between Purdue and Missouri that got interrupted by bad weather resumed Sunday and the Tigers prevailed, 22-2. There was another weather delay in the regularly scheduled Sunday contest, but the Boilers rebounded from the earlier pounding and won, 8-6. After taking two of three from the Tigers, Purdue beat Missouri State today, 7-5.
Aaron Markowitz of Penn State was named the Big Ten Pitcher of the Week. Ohio State's Matt Angle got the nod as conference Player of the Week.
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Saturday Results And Standouts
It was an ugly Saturday for most of the Big Ten. Texas-San Antonio beat Illinois, 9-3. Notre Dame crushed Iowa, 16-2. Baylor pounded Michigan, 16-0. Rhode Island dropped Michigan State, 7-4. Penn State dropped both ends of their doubleheader with Toledo, 6-5, and Bethune Cookman. Purdue was losing, 5-0, at Missouri before lightning and rain brought the game to a halt.
Two Big Ten teams did prevail Saturday. Minnesota provided a win in shutout fashion over Ball State, 2-0. Ohio State also triumphed beating Northern Iowa, 9-6.
Shy of much overall team success, let's look at some individual performances. Illini 2B Ryan Hastings went 3 for 5. Lars Davis drove in two of Illinois' three tallies. Michigan State SS Troy Krider went 4 for 4. Cole DeVries was the star of Minnesota's victory. The Gopher righthander pitched a complete game four hit shutout. Buckeye SS Jedidiah Stephen went 4 for 4 with a pair of RBI in OSU's win. Stephen is 9 for 12 with seven runs scored and four RBI in Ohio State's three games so far this weekend. (Right now, Stephen looks like the Player of the Week. DeVries and Purdue's Buente will battle for Pitcher of the Week honors.)
From the opposition, UTSA's Lee Todesco had three RBI vs. Illinois. Baylor's Beamer Weams (a great name) and Tim Jackson each had a pair of hits and three RBI in their route of Michigan. Dave Savard had two hits and three RBI for Rhode Island. Notre Dame's Danny Dressman had three hits and drove in five Irish runs over Iowa.
Two Big Ten teams did prevail Saturday. Minnesota provided a win in shutout fashion over Ball State, 2-0. Ohio State also triumphed beating Northern Iowa, 9-6.
Shy of much overall team success, let's look at some individual performances. Illini 2B Ryan Hastings went 3 for 5. Lars Davis drove in two of Illinois' three tallies. Michigan State SS Troy Krider went 4 for 4. Cole DeVries was the star of Minnesota's victory. The Gopher righthander pitched a complete game four hit shutout. Buckeye SS Jedidiah Stephen went 4 for 4 with a pair of RBI in OSU's win. Stephen is 9 for 12 with seven runs scored and four RBI in Ohio State's three games so far this weekend. (Right now, Stephen looks like the Player of the Week. DeVries and Purdue's Buente will battle for Pitcher of the Week honors.)
From the opposition, UTSA's Lee Todesco had three RBI vs. Illinois. Baylor's Beamer Weams (a great name) and Tim Jackson each had a pair of hits and three RBI in their route of Michigan. Dave Savard had two hits and three RBI for Rhode Island. Notre Dame's Danny Dressman had three hits and drove in five Irish runs over Iowa.
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Friday Night Fireworks
Friday is often the day of the week premier pitching match-ups occur. However, last night was exception to that rule. A number of Big Ten teams and, unfortunately, their opponents, had impressive offensive showings. Iowa (Jeff Maitland) and Purdue (Jay Buente) did slow the Friday night hit parade, but their are plenty of big boxscores around the rest of the conference for you to review.
Illinois outslugged Louisiana-Lafayette, 14-12. Big Ten batting average leader Lars Davis collected three more hits, as did Ryan Snowden, pacing the Illini's thirteen hit attack. Luke Obokowicz earned the win.
Texas-San Antonio downed Iowa, 3-1. Hawkeye starter Jeff Maitland went seven innings allowing only four hits, but didn't figure in the decision. 2B Travis Sweet had the only RBI for Iowa.
It was the Amos Ramon Show in Louisiana Tech's win over Michigan, 13-7. Ramon, had four hits including his fourth homer, scored three times, drove in two, stole a base and picked up the save for LTU. Derek VanBuskirk went 3 for 3 for Michigan. Doug Pickens and Nate Recknagel homered for the Wolverines.
Minnesota defeated Vermont, 11-5, in the first game of the Metrodome Tournament. Gopher freshman LF Matt Nohelty had two hits, two RBI, scored three and stole three bases. Fellow freshmen Bryan Jost (3 RBI) and Nate Hanson (2 for 3, 2 RBI, 2 runs) also had big nights for Minnesota. Brian Bull notched his first win of the year going six innings while allowing a single run.
Ohio State swept a doubleheader from Lehigh. The Buckeyes won game one, 17-10. CF Matt Angle had five RBI and stole two bases for OSU. Buckeye RF Wes Schirtzinger went 4 for 5. Cory Luebke, the defending Big Ten Pitcher of the Week, got roughed up a bit, but earned his second victory of 2006.
Game two was another hit fest. OSU prevailed in the finale, 13-6. Eric Fryer had three Buckeye RBI. 3B Ronnie Bourquin had three hits in the nightcap. Bourquin went six for ten with four runs scored and four RBI in the twinbill. Jedidiah Stephen also had two strong performances going 5 for 8 with six runs and two RBI.
Jay Buente made his claim for Big Ten Pitcher of the Week in leading Purdue past Missouri, 7-0. Buente allowed four hits over eight innings while fanning nine Tiger batters. 2B Eric Osborn had two more hits raising his average to .478.
It took eleven innings, but Penn State topped Bethune Cookman, 6-5. Matt Cavagnaro drove in the winning run for the Nittany Lions in the 11th. Sophomore Paul Hawkins got the win for PSU.
Illinois outslugged Louisiana-Lafayette, 14-12. Big Ten batting average leader Lars Davis collected three more hits, as did Ryan Snowden, pacing the Illini's thirteen hit attack. Luke Obokowicz earned the win.
Texas-San Antonio downed Iowa, 3-1. Hawkeye starter Jeff Maitland went seven innings allowing only four hits, but didn't figure in the decision. 2B Travis Sweet had the only RBI for Iowa.
It was the Amos Ramon Show in Louisiana Tech's win over Michigan, 13-7. Ramon, had four hits including his fourth homer, scored three times, drove in two, stole a base and picked up the save for LTU. Derek VanBuskirk went 3 for 3 for Michigan. Doug Pickens and Nate Recknagel homered for the Wolverines.
Minnesota defeated Vermont, 11-5, in the first game of the Metrodome Tournament. Gopher freshman LF Matt Nohelty had two hits, two RBI, scored three and stole three bases. Fellow freshmen Bryan Jost (3 RBI) and Nate Hanson (2 for 3, 2 RBI, 2 runs) also had big nights for Minnesota. Brian Bull notched his first win of the year going six innings while allowing a single run.
Ohio State swept a doubleheader from Lehigh. The Buckeyes won game one, 17-10. CF Matt Angle had five RBI and stole two bases for OSU. Buckeye RF Wes Schirtzinger went 4 for 5. Cory Luebke, the defending Big Ten Pitcher of the Week, got roughed up a bit, but earned his second victory of 2006.
Game two was another hit fest. OSU prevailed in the finale, 13-6. Eric Fryer had three Buckeye RBI. 3B Ronnie Bourquin had three hits in the nightcap. Bourquin went six for ten with four runs scored and four RBI in the twinbill. Jedidiah Stephen also had two strong performances going 5 for 8 with six runs and two RBI.
Jay Buente made his claim for Big Ten Pitcher of the Week in leading Purdue past Missouri, 7-0. Buente allowed four hits over eight innings while fanning nine Tiger batters. 2B Eric Osborn had two more hits raising his average to .478.
It took eleven innings, but Penn State topped Bethune Cookman, 6-5. Matt Cavagnaro drove in the winning run for the Nittany Lions in the 11th. Sophomore Paul Hawkins got the win for PSU.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Weekend Links
Welcome to the usual Thursday night fare, a look at the upcoming weekend. Tonight, I've tossed in an extra side dish, a peek at Monday's slate. Only two games against ranked opponents dot the Big Ten schedule-Michigan at # 27 Baylor and Illinois at # 21 Texas A&M. Purdue and Northwestern are both idle this weekend.
FRIDAY
Illinois vs. Louisiana-Lafayette
Dan Hartleb's squad travels to San Antonio for four games in the Collegiate Baseball Classic.
Ohio State vs. Lehigh (Doubleheader)
It's four games in three days in Clearwater, Florida for OSU.
Michigan @ Louisiana Tech
The Wolverines are in the Quala-T Imprints Baylor Classic. Ok, it's a kind of cheesy name.
Iowa @ Texas-San Antonio
The Hawkeyes are also part of the Collegiate Baseball Classic in San Antonio.
Purdue @ Missouri
The Boilermakers get a weekend set vs. the Tigers.
Vermont @ Minnesota
Catamounts visit as part of the Metrodome Tournament.
Bethune Cookman vs. Penn State
Nittany Lions have three games in two days.
SATURDAY
Toledo vs. Penn State
Bethune Cookman vs. Penn State
The split doubleheader ends PSU weekend.
Iowa vs. Notre Dame
The Irish play another of their five Big Ten opponents this spring.
Illinois @ Texas-San Antonio
Illini face tournament hosts, the Roadrunners.
Michigan @ # 27 Baylor
Bears have a fan site.
Michigan State vs. Rhode Island
It's the lone contest of the weekend for the Spartans.
Ball State @ Minnesota
BSU's Brad Miller was selected by Baseball America as the pre-season MAC Player of the Year.
Ohio State vs. Northern Iowa
Buckeyes' SS Jedidiah Stephen has a hit in each of OSU's first six contests.
Purdue @ Missouri
Simmons Field is a fan run Mizzou baseball site.
SUNDAY
Illinois vs. Notre Dame
Does the Lars Davis hit parade continue vs. ND?
Indiana vs. Eastern Illinois
Iowa vs. Louisiana-Lafayette
ULL plays almost as many Big Ten schools as Notre Dame.
Michigan vs. Pacific
Ed Sprague, a favorite of mine, is the head coach at Pacific.
Illinois State @ Minnesota
Ohio State vs. Bethune Cookman
Purdue @ Missouri
MONDAY
Illinois vs. # 21 Texas A&M
Indiana vs. Northern Iowa
Iowa vs. Notre Dame
ND, again? Just join the conference already.
FRIDAY
Illinois vs. Louisiana-Lafayette
Dan Hartleb's squad travels to San Antonio for four games in the Collegiate Baseball Classic.
Ohio State vs. Lehigh (Doubleheader)
It's four games in three days in Clearwater, Florida for OSU.
Michigan @ Louisiana Tech
The Wolverines are in the Quala-T Imprints Baylor Classic. Ok, it's a kind of cheesy name.
Iowa @ Texas-San Antonio
The Hawkeyes are also part of the Collegiate Baseball Classic in San Antonio.
Purdue @ Missouri
The Boilermakers get a weekend set vs. the Tigers.
Vermont @ Minnesota
Catamounts visit as part of the Metrodome Tournament.
Bethune Cookman vs. Penn State
Nittany Lions have three games in two days.
SATURDAY
Toledo vs. Penn State
Bethune Cookman vs. Penn State
The split doubleheader ends PSU weekend.
Iowa vs. Notre Dame
The Irish play another of their five Big Ten opponents this spring.
Illinois @ Texas-San Antonio
Illini face tournament hosts, the Roadrunners.
Michigan @ # 27 Baylor
Bears have a fan site.
Michigan State vs. Rhode Island
It's the lone contest of the weekend for the Spartans.
Ball State @ Minnesota
BSU's Brad Miller was selected by Baseball America as the pre-season MAC Player of the Year.
Ohio State vs. Northern Iowa
Buckeyes' SS Jedidiah Stephen has a hit in each of OSU's first six contests.
Purdue @ Missouri
Simmons Field is a fan run Mizzou baseball site.
SUNDAY
Illinois vs. Notre Dame
Does the Lars Davis hit parade continue vs. ND?
Indiana vs. Eastern Illinois
Iowa vs. Louisiana-Lafayette
ULL plays almost as many Big Ten schools as Notre Dame.
Michigan vs. Pacific
Ed Sprague, a favorite of mine, is the head coach at Pacific.
Illinois State @ Minnesota
Ohio State vs. Bethune Cookman
Purdue @ Missouri
MONDAY
Illinois vs. # 21 Texas A&M
Indiana vs. Northern Iowa
Iowa vs. Notre Dame
ND, again? Just join the conference already.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Number Crunching And Other News
Yes, it's far too early for OPS numbers. However, college baseball season is rather short, so let's look at a few figures realizing they mean even less than usual. The Big Ten OPS leaders, unofficially, of course, are as follows:
Lars Davis, Illinois 1.211
Ryan Basham, Michigan State 1.196
Ronnie Bourquin, Ohio State 1.192
Antonio Mule, Northwestern 1.188
Doug Pickens, Michigan 1.179
Wes Freie, Iowa 1.167
Eric Osborn, Purdue 1.132
Adam Tripp, Michigan State 1.129
Andy Hunter, Minnesota 1.110
Steve Head, Indiana 1.079
Troy Krider, Michigan State and Alan Cattrysse, Michigan State 1.071
Brian Ernst, Penn State 1.002
These are the only players above the magical 1.000 mark. Davis, the Illinois catcher, is pacing the conference in batting average at .571, which just happens to be the identical number as his slugging percentage, and on base percentage at .640. Michigan's Pickens is leading the conference in slugging percentage at an impressive .731.
In other Big Ten baseball news, IU's Tracy Smith earned victory number one. Penn State beat Lehigh today, 4-0. Nittany Lions' starter Aaron Markowitz pitched a complete game shutout.
Three members of the Minnesota Golden Gophers were named to the Dairy Queen Classic All-Tournament Team: 2B Luke McLean, SS Dan Lyons and OF Mike Mee . Robert Mews of the Minnesota Daily recaps the Gophers play over the weekend. Other DQ Classic recaps from Arizona, Notre Dame and Nebraska perspectives.
Here's a Kentucky perspective on UK's sweep of the Wildcats from Northwestern.
A Southern Florida angle on Illinois' sweep of the Bulls is also online.
Indiana Daily Student writer Jake Brown reviews IU's winless weekend at the hands of Miami (FL).
Dan Feldman of the Michigan Daily writes about the Wolverines disappointment with their 3-4 record.
The Big Ten announced this week's Pitcher of the Week is Cory Luebke of Ohio State and the Player of the Week is Michigan State's Ryan Basham.
Lars Davis, Illinois 1.211
Ryan Basham, Michigan State 1.196
Ronnie Bourquin, Ohio State 1.192
Antonio Mule, Northwestern 1.188
Doug Pickens, Michigan 1.179
Wes Freie, Iowa 1.167
Eric Osborn, Purdue 1.132
Adam Tripp, Michigan State 1.129
Andy Hunter, Minnesota 1.110
Steve Head, Indiana 1.079
Troy Krider, Michigan State and Alan Cattrysse, Michigan State 1.071
Brian Ernst, Penn State 1.002
These are the only players above the magical 1.000 mark. Davis, the Illinois catcher, is pacing the conference in batting average at .571, which just happens to be the identical number as his slugging percentage, and on base percentage at .640. Michigan's Pickens is leading the conference in slugging percentage at an impressive .731.
In other Big Ten baseball news, IU's Tracy Smith earned victory number one. Penn State beat Lehigh today, 4-0. Nittany Lions' starter Aaron Markowitz pitched a complete game shutout.
Three members of the Minnesota Golden Gophers were named to the Dairy Queen Classic All-Tournament Team: 2B Luke McLean, SS Dan Lyons and OF Mike Mee . Robert Mews of the Minnesota Daily recaps the Gophers play over the weekend. Other DQ Classic recaps from Arizona, Notre Dame and Nebraska perspectives.
Here's a Kentucky perspective on UK's sweep of the Wildcats from Northwestern.
A Southern Florida angle on Illinois' sweep of the Bulls is also online.
Indiana Daily Student writer Jake Brown reviews IU's winless weekend at the hands of Miami (FL).
Dan Feldman of the Michigan Daily writes about the Wolverines disappointment with their 3-4 record.
The Big Ten announced this week's Pitcher of the Week is Cory Luebke of Ohio State and the Player of the Week is Michigan State's Ryan Basham.
Midweek Match-Ups
3/7/06
Penn State vs. Lehigh
Indiana @ Indiana State
Michigan State @ Florida International
3/8/06
Penn State @ Jacksonville
Xavier @ Indiana
North Dakota State @ Minnesota
Michigan State @ Miami (FL)
3/9/06
Michigan State vs. Seton Hall
Penn State vs. Lehigh
Indiana @ Indiana State
Michigan State @ Florida International
3/8/06
Penn State @ Jacksonville
Xavier @ Indiana
North Dakota State @ Minnesota
Michigan State @ Miami (FL)
3/9/06
Michigan State vs. Seton Hall
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Weekend Recaps
Saturday
Illinois 7 South Florida 3
Lars Davis went 4 for 5 and Chase Kliment hit his first homer to lead Illinois past the Bulls. Jake Toohey notched the win (1-1). Matt Whitmore earned his first save.
# 24 Miami (FL) 7 Indiana 2
Hurricane starter Manny Miguelez pitched a complete game one hitter.
Louisiana-Lafayette 14 Iowa 9
The Rajun Cajuns knock Iowa from the undefeated ranks. Wes Freie was the bright spot for the Hawkeyes' offense scoring twice and driving in a run.
Georgia Southern 4 Michigan 3
Brett Pelfrey drove in three and Griffin Benedict homered to lead Georgia Southern past Michigan. Adam Abraham went 2 for 3 for Michigan.
Michigan State 6 Lehigh 3
Coach David Grewe earned his first Spartan victory. Ryan Basham had two hits and two RBI for MSU. Jeff Gerbe's seven innings of one run baseball got him the win.
Minnesota 8 Notre Dame 0
Cole DeVries picked up the win, Bill Johnson earned a save for the Gophers. Nate Hanson got two RBI in the win.
Kentucky 12 Northwestern 7
Antonio Mule and Jake Owens each went 4 for 5 with two RBI, but NU fell to Kentucky. UK catcher Sean Couglin went yard twice nd scored four times to help the Wildcats to their second straight win over Northwestern.
Jacksonville 4 Ohio State 3
OSU closer Rory Meister walked in the winning run. Jacob Howell had two of OSU's four hits on the day. Dan DeLucia went eight innings allowing a single run, but didn't figure in the decision. D.J. Ackley pitched eight solid innings for Jacksonville, as well, but he didn't figure in the decision, either.
# 3 North Carolina 5 Purdue 2
UNC starter Daniel Bard was the story Saturday. Bard tossed a complete game victory yielding five hits, two runs, issuing only a solitary walk and striking out 13 Purdue batters. Eric Osborn had two hits including his first homer for Purdue.
Bowling Green 5 Penn State 4
BGSU scored four in the ninth to beat PSU. Brian Ernst went 3 for 4 for the Nittany Lions.
Sunday
Illinois 7 South Florida 6
Shawn Roof, Chase Kliment and Ryan Snowden each had a two hits to lead the Illini (3-3) to a sweep over USF (4-9).
Western Michigan 12 Ohio State 11
Matt Angle has five hits and two RBI, Eric Fryer has three hits and three RBI, but OSU falls to the Broncos. Matt Bolton and Nathan Marquardt each have three hits and two RBI to pace the WMU offense.
Kentucky 10 Northwestern 3
1B Ryan Strieby collects four hits, including a homer, and four RBI to lead UK past NU. Antonio Mule had three more hits for Northwestern (3-8).
Iowa 6 Evansville 4
Travis Sweet went 3 for 4 to pace a balanced Iowa (5-1) offense.
# 24 Miami (FL) 6 Indiana 4
Danny Valencia homered, scored twice and drove in a pair to lead the Hurricanes past IU. Tad Reida led the Hoosiers (0-6) with three hits in four at bats.
# 3 North Carolina 7 Purdue 3
Reid Fronk, Chad Flack and Matt Spencer all had two hits a piece for UNC. The Heels' Andrew Miller went seven innings fanning 10 Boilermakers. Mitch Hilligoss had two RBI for Purdue (2-3).
Michigan 9 LeMoyne 4
Eric Rose drove in three runs, Leif Mahler and Doug Pickens had two RBI for the Wolverines (3-4). Andrew Hess pitched 5.1 innings and got the victory.
Penn State 17 Sacred Heart 2
The Nittany Lions earned their first win of 2006. Brian Ernst followed his three hit Saturday performance with a four hit affair on Sunday.
Illinois 7 South Florida 3
Lars Davis went 4 for 5 and Chase Kliment hit his first homer to lead Illinois past the Bulls. Jake Toohey notched the win (1-1). Matt Whitmore earned his first save.
# 24 Miami (FL) 7 Indiana 2
Hurricane starter Manny Miguelez pitched a complete game one hitter.
Louisiana-Lafayette 14 Iowa 9
The Rajun Cajuns knock Iowa from the undefeated ranks. Wes Freie was the bright spot for the Hawkeyes' offense scoring twice and driving in a run.
Georgia Southern 4 Michigan 3
Brett Pelfrey drove in three and Griffin Benedict homered to lead Georgia Southern past Michigan. Adam Abraham went 2 for 3 for Michigan.
Michigan State 6 Lehigh 3
Coach David Grewe earned his first Spartan victory. Ryan Basham had two hits and two RBI for MSU. Jeff Gerbe's seven innings of one run baseball got him the win.
Minnesota 8 Notre Dame 0
Cole DeVries picked up the win, Bill Johnson earned a save for the Gophers. Nate Hanson got two RBI in the win.
Kentucky 12 Northwestern 7
Antonio Mule and Jake Owens each went 4 for 5 with two RBI, but NU fell to Kentucky. UK catcher Sean Couglin went yard twice nd scored four times to help the Wildcats to their second straight win over Northwestern.
Jacksonville 4 Ohio State 3
OSU closer Rory Meister walked in the winning run. Jacob Howell had two of OSU's four hits on the day. Dan DeLucia went eight innings allowing a single run, but didn't figure in the decision. D.J. Ackley pitched eight solid innings for Jacksonville, as well, but he didn't figure in the decision, either.
# 3 North Carolina 5 Purdue 2
UNC starter Daniel Bard was the story Saturday. Bard tossed a complete game victory yielding five hits, two runs, issuing only a solitary walk and striking out 13 Purdue batters. Eric Osborn had two hits including his first homer for Purdue.
Bowling Green 5 Penn State 4
BGSU scored four in the ninth to beat PSU. Brian Ernst went 3 for 4 for the Nittany Lions.
Sunday
Illinois 7 South Florida 6
Shawn Roof, Chase Kliment and Ryan Snowden each had a two hits to lead the Illini (3-3) to a sweep over USF (4-9).
Western Michigan 12 Ohio State 11
Matt Angle has five hits and two RBI, Eric Fryer has three hits and three RBI, but OSU falls to the Broncos. Matt Bolton and Nathan Marquardt each have three hits and two RBI to pace the WMU offense.
Kentucky 10 Northwestern 3
1B Ryan Strieby collects four hits, including a homer, and four RBI to lead UK past NU. Antonio Mule had three more hits for Northwestern (3-8).
Iowa 6 Evansville 4
Travis Sweet went 3 for 4 to pace a balanced Iowa (5-1) offense.
# 24 Miami (FL) 6 Indiana 4
Danny Valencia homered, scored twice and drove in a pair to lead the Hurricanes past IU. Tad Reida led the Hoosiers (0-6) with three hits in four at bats.
# 3 North Carolina 7 Purdue 3
Reid Fronk, Chad Flack and Matt Spencer all had two hits a piece for UNC. The Heels' Andrew Miller went seven innings fanning 10 Boilermakers. Mitch Hilligoss had two RBI for Purdue (2-3).
Michigan 9 LeMoyne 4
Eric Rose drove in three runs, Leif Mahler and Doug Pickens had two RBI for the Wolverines (3-4). Andrew Hess pitched 5.1 innings and got the victory.
Penn State 17 Sacred Heart 2
The Nittany Lions earned their first win of 2006. Brian Ernst followed his three hit Saturday performance with a four hit affair on Sunday.
Friday, March 03, 2006
Purdue Stuns # 3 UNC, Iowa Still Undefeated
A ninth inning bunt single by Spencer Ingaldson lifted Purdue past # 3 North Carolina, 5-4. Ingaldson, the Boilermakers' backstop, Mitch Hilligoss, Ryne White and Eric Osborn each had two hits a piece. One of Hilligoss hits was his first homer of the year. Chris Toneguzzi picked up the win in relief for Purdue.
Iowa remains undefeated after dropping Northwestern State, 2-0. Jeff Maitland allowed two hits over six innings to earn the win. Tim Gudex posted his second save of '06. Freshman Wes Freie drove in both Hawkeye runs.
UNC-Asheville bested Michigan, 8-6. Doug Pickens remains redhot, hitting his second homerun of the campaign. Drew Taylor lasted only 2.1 innings for Michigan (2-3). Asheville's Elliott Arrington had three hits, scored two and drove in two for the Bulldogs.
Ohio State thumped UNC-Greensboro, 12-2. Eric Fryer had three hits and three RBI. Adam Schneider collected four RBI on three hits. Sophomore Cory Luebke posted his first win for the Buckeyes (2-2).
Kentucky pounded Northwestern, 19-3. Collin Cowgill homered and had three RBI, Sean Couglin also homered for UK and drove in two. Craig Snipp went eight innings striking out nine to get the win. Antonio Mule had two RBI, Jake Owens had three hits for NU.
Miami (FL) is currently beating Indiana, 4-0, in the fifth inning.
Illinois is up on South Florida, 3-0 in the 8th. Ryan Hastings has two hits thus far. Chase Kliment has a pair of RBI for the Illini.
Iowa remains undefeated after dropping Northwestern State, 2-0. Jeff Maitland allowed two hits over six innings to earn the win. Tim Gudex posted his second save of '06. Freshman Wes Freie drove in both Hawkeye runs.
UNC-Asheville bested Michigan, 8-6. Doug Pickens remains redhot, hitting his second homerun of the campaign. Drew Taylor lasted only 2.1 innings for Michigan (2-3). Asheville's Elliott Arrington had three hits, scored two and drove in two for the Bulldogs.
Ohio State thumped UNC-Greensboro, 12-2. Eric Fryer had three hits and three RBI. Adam Schneider collected four RBI on three hits. Sophomore Cory Luebke posted his first win for the Buckeyes (2-2).
Kentucky pounded Northwestern, 19-3. Collin Cowgill homered and had three RBI, Sean Couglin also homered for UK and drove in two. Craig Snipp went eight innings striking out nine to get the win. Antonio Mule had two RBI, Jake Owens had three hits for NU.
Miami (FL) is currently beating Indiana, 4-0, in the fifth inning.
Illinois is up on South Florida, 3-0 in the 8th. Ryan Hastings has two hits thus far. Chase Kliment has a pair of RBI for the Illini.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
The DQ Classic And Other Weekend Games
The University of Minnesota plays hosts to one of the nation's better tournaments this weekend--The Dairy Queen Classic. The Gophers host Arizona, Notre Dame and # 4 Nebraska. After a three game tilt with highly ranked Florida State a week ago, John Anderson's squad gets another stern test at home in the Metrodome. Coach Anderson and the Minnesota athletic department deserve credit for bringing in some of college baseball's top powers.
Looking at the rest of the weekend schedule, Indiana gets a tough road trip to Coral Gables. The Hoosiers get three against traditional super-power Miami. Undefeated Iowa travels into Cajun country for three games. Purdue, coming off a Bayou adventure last weekend, gets to face off against #3 North Carolina in Chapel Hill.
Below is each schools' weekend schedule. If there is a link to a Big Ten program, it's that's university's preview of the weekend series. The opposition links are, as always, to that school's baseball homepage. This week, for no particular reason, I've chosen to use Collegiate Baseball Newspaper's rankings. Enjoy the weekend.
Illinois
@ South Florida (3 games)
Indiana
@ #27 Miami (FL) (3 games)
Iowa (@ Louisiana Cajun Classic)
Northwestern State, Louisiana-Lafayette, Evansville
Michigan
UNC-Asheville, Troy, South Alabama
Michigan State
Lehigh (Saturday & Monday), Sacred Heart (Sunday)
Minnesota (Dairy Queen Classic)
Arizona, Notre Dame, #4 Nebraska
Northwestern
@ Kentucky (3 games)
Ohio State (Kennel Club Classic)
Aoyama Gakuin (Japan/Exhibition), UNC-Greensboro, Jacksonville, Western Michigan
Purdue
@ # 3 North Carolina (3 games)
Penn State
Bowling Green, Sacred Heart, Central Michigan
Looking at the rest of the weekend schedule, Indiana gets a tough road trip to Coral Gables. The Hoosiers get three against traditional super-power Miami. Undefeated Iowa travels into Cajun country for three games. Purdue, coming off a Bayou adventure last weekend, gets to face off against #3 North Carolina in Chapel Hill.
Below is each schools' weekend schedule. If there is a link to a Big Ten program, it's that's university's preview of the weekend series. The opposition links are, as always, to that school's baseball homepage. This week, for no particular reason, I've chosen to use Collegiate Baseball Newspaper's rankings. Enjoy the weekend.
Illinois
@ South Florida (3 games)
Indiana
@ #27 Miami (FL) (3 games)
Iowa (@ Louisiana Cajun Classic)
Northwestern State, Louisiana-Lafayette, Evansville
Michigan
UNC-Asheville, Troy, South Alabama
Michigan State
Lehigh (Saturday & Monday), Sacred Heart (Sunday)
Minnesota (Dairy Queen Classic)
Arizona, Notre Dame, #4 Nebraska
Northwestern
@ Kentucky (3 games)
Ohio State (Kennel Club Classic)
Aoyama Gakuin (Japan/Exhibition), UNC-Greensboro, Jacksonville, Western Michigan
Purdue
@ # 3 North Carolina (3 games)
Penn State
Bowling Green, Sacred Heart, Central Michigan
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Michigan Beats UCF, 6-3
Senior OF Mike Schmidt homered and had four RBI in helping Michigan beat Central Florida, 6-3. Big Ten Player of the Week Doug Pickens went 2 for 3. Craig Murray went six innings allowing three hits and two earned runs to grab the win. Freshman Adam Abraham got his first save with three innings of relief work.
The game just ended, I followed it courtesy of GameTracker, so it's too early to have any links to official recaps or boxscores.
The game just ended, I followed it courtesy of GameTracker, so it's too early to have any links to official recaps or boxscores.
Scholarships Lost
Will Kimmey at Baseball America files this report on today's announcement that a number of schools are being hit with scholarship reductions for not meeting the Academic Progress Report. No Big Ten baseball programs are specifically mentioned, but some universities are appealing their case and as such have not had their names released.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Catching Up On The Weekend
Yes, I'm running behind. My apologies for that. It's not like I've gone totally blogging nuts. I still have some life sans Blogger. Anyway, to my loyal readers, I am sorry for not being more timely. Regardless, let's see if I can get a handle on what happened around the Big Ten this past weekend.
Clearly, Iowa was the Big Ten's big winner over the weekend. The Hawkeyes charged out of the gate at 3-0. Jack Dahm's squad dropped host Austin Peay, then Illinois State and finally Dayton to capture the Austin Peay Tournament.
CF Nate Price went six for fifteen, scored four times, drove in five and stole three bases to lead the Hawkeyes potent offense. Travis Sweet had six hits in fourteen at bats scored four times and had five RBI. Tim Gudex got off to a strong start, as well. The Iowa closer notched his first win and initial save of 2006 during the three game set.
Around the rest of the conference, Purdue split their opening weekend of games. The Boilermakers beat Louisiana-Lafayette, but lost to Kansas State. Purdue starter Jay Buente's eleven strikeout performance against ULL earned him the Big Ten Pitcher of the Week Award. The righthander went eight innings giving up three hits and three walks, but only a single run.
Ohio State fell to 1-2 with losses to Wake Forest and (then) #1 Florida before earning their first win, a 4-2 triumph over Missouri. Freshman J.B. Shuck went seven innings on Sunday allowing only three hits, an earned run, fanning six and yielding only a single walk. OSU reliever Rory Meister claimed the save over the Tigers.
Both Northwestern and Michigan came out of the gate at 1-2. NU dropped two of three to Louisville. Antonio Mule continued his strong start hitting .400 over the weekend for the Wildcats.
The Wolverines fell to UAB Friday, then split a Sunday doubleheader. South Alabama beat Michigan in Game 1, but Rich Maloney's team rebounded to defeat Troy in Game 2. OF Doug Pickens led Michigan's attack and garnered the Big Ten's Player of the Week honor. Pickens went five for eleven in the three games including his first homer and a GWRBI vs. Troy.
Illinois, Indiana, Michigan State, Minnesota and Penn State all went without a win. Lars Davis went seven for eleven with six RBI in the Illini's three defeats. 2B Ryan Hastings returned to the Illinois lineup, after missing all of '05, and had five hits over the three games.
Jay Brant began this year as he did last year, hitting. The IU leftfielder went yard twice over the weekend and had a three hit affair on Saturday. Michigan State's Adam Tripp probably had the Spartans highlight this weekend. The junior had two hits, including his first homer of the season, with three RBI and two runs scored on Saturday.
The Gophers fell in three straight to #6 Florida State. Gophers 1B Andy Hunter did collect six hits in eleven at bats, but it wasn't enough to help Minnesota avoid a sweep in Tallahassee. Penn State fell to 0-6 this season. OF Lance Thompson is still hitting, six for eleven in three games, but PSU's defense seems to be a problem so far.
Not a great weekend for the Big Ten. Some did earn strength of schedule points, (especially the Gophers and Buckeyes) but a few more win would have helped the conference come tournament time. However, last weekend is over and the next one is on the horizon. Perhaps, some better results will appear.
Clearly, Iowa was the Big Ten's big winner over the weekend. The Hawkeyes charged out of the gate at 3-0. Jack Dahm's squad dropped host Austin Peay, then Illinois State and finally Dayton to capture the Austin Peay Tournament.
CF Nate Price went six for fifteen, scored four times, drove in five and stole three bases to lead the Hawkeyes potent offense. Travis Sweet had six hits in fourteen at bats scored four times and had five RBI. Tim Gudex got off to a strong start, as well. The Iowa closer notched his first win and initial save of 2006 during the three game set.
Around the rest of the conference, Purdue split their opening weekend of games. The Boilermakers beat Louisiana-Lafayette, but lost to Kansas State. Purdue starter Jay Buente's eleven strikeout performance against ULL earned him the Big Ten Pitcher of the Week Award. The righthander went eight innings giving up three hits and three walks, but only a single run.
Ohio State fell to 1-2 with losses to Wake Forest and (then) #1 Florida before earning their first win, a 4-2 triumph over Missouri. Freshman J.B. Shuck went seven innings on Sunday allowing only three hits, an earned run, fanning six and yielding only a single walk. OSU reliever Rory Meister claimed the save over the Tigers.
Both Northwestern and Michigan came out of the gate at 1-2. NU dropped two of three to Louisville. Antonio Mule continued his strong start hitting .400 over the weekend for the Wildcats.
The Wolverines fell to UAB Friday, then split a Sunday doubleheader. South Alabama beat Michigan in Game 1, but Rich Maloney's team rebounded to defeat Troy in Game 2. OF Doug Pickens led Michigan's attack and garnered the Big Ten's Player of the Week honor. Pickens went five for eleven in the three games including his first homer and a GWRBI vs. Troy.
Illinois, Indiana, Michigan State, Minnesota and Penn State all went without a win. Lars Davis went seven for eleven with six RBI in the Illini's three defeats. 2B Ryan Hastings returned to the Illinois lineup, after missing all of '05, and had five hits over the three games.
Jay Brant began this year as he did last year, hitting. The IU leftfielder went yard twice over the weekend and had a three hit affair on Saturday. Michigan State's Adam Tripp probably had the Spartans highlight this weekend. The junior had two hits, including his first homer of the season, with three RBI and two runs scored on Saturday.
The Gophers fell in three straight to #6 Florida State. Gophers 1B Andy Hunter did collect six hits in eleven at bats, but it wasn't enough to help Minnesota avoid a sweep in Tallahassee. Penn State fell to 0-6 this season. OF Lance Thompson is still hitting, six for eleven in three games, but PSU's defense seems to be a problem so far.
Not a great weekend for the Big Ten. Some did earn strength of schedule points, (especially the Gophers and Buckeyes) but a few more win would have helped the conference come tournament time. However, last weekend is over and the next one is on the horizon. Perhaps, some better results will appear.
Friday, February 24, 2006
Friday Scores
I don't have all the final totals yet, but here are the scores as of this moment. Click on the links for recaps of each contest.
Wake Forest 6 Ohio State 2
Iowa 12 Austin Peay 10
UAB 5 Michigan 4
Charlotte 11 Indiana 3
East Carolina 4 Penn State 3
Florida State 5 Minnesota 0
Louisville 11 Northwestern 0 Game 1
Northwestern 5 Lousiville 4 Game 2
If time allows, I'll elaborate on these games later. Suffice to say, it wasn't a great day for the Big Ten. However, it's only the first of many more games.
Before I depart, a quick shout out to David at Swampball.com for providing a link here in his preview of tomorrow's Ohio State vs. #1 Florida tilt. Thanks, David.
Wake Forest 6 Ohio State 2
Iowa 12 Austin Peay 10
UAB 5 Michigan 4
Charlotte 11 Indiana 3
East Carolina 4 Penn State 3
Florida State 5 Minnesota 0
Louisville 11 Northwestern 0 Game 1
Northwestern 5 Lousiville 4 Game 2
If time allows, I'll elaborate on these games later. Suffice to say, it wasn't a great day for the Big Ten. However, it's only the first of many more games.
Before I depart, a quick shout out to David at Swampball.com for providing a link here in his preview of tomorrow's Ohio State vs. #1 Florida tilt. Thanks, David.
Thursday, February 23, 2006
The Gang's All Here
All ten conference schools take to the field this weekend. Bob Todd's Ohio State squad looks to have the most daunting challenge ahead, Wake Forest, #1 Florida and #12 Missouri, but a number of Big Ten baseball programs face some difficult competition to open the 2006 season.
Here's a look at the games with some links tossed in for your enjoyment. A great number of these games will be available via GameTracker and some are being broadcast on the 'net. (For Big Ten baseball homepages, look in the sidebar to the right.)
Friday
Wake Forest vs. Ohio State
Big weekend for Buckeyes begins with Deamon Deacons. Wake freshman Dustin Hood is hitting .455 with posting a .500 mark in both on base and slugging percentage. Matt Antonelli has gone yard twice and is slugging at a .667 clip. I'm guessing OSU will go with LHP Dan DeLucia in the opener.
Iowa @ Austin Peay
Here's the Hawkeye preview of the weekend. Baseball America tabs Austin Peay as the Ohio Valley conference winner this year. They also project APSU lefty Rowdy Hardy as the OVC Player of the Year. The name alone merits him some recognition.
UAB vs. Michigan
Wolverines open 2006 with Blazers. LHP Drew Taylor is scheduled to take the hill for Rich Maloney's team. Many will be wacthing for the debut of herladed freshman Zach Putnam.
Indiana @ Charlotte
Three game set marks the beginning of Tracy Smith's reign as IU head coach.
Penn State @ East Carolina (Friends of ECU Baseball, Unofficial ECU site)
Nittany Lions open up vs. ECU in first of three. PSU's Lance Thompson gets a chance to defend his conference player of the week award.
Minnesota @ # 6 Florida State (Section B, Unofficial FSU site)
Gophers travel to play three with #6 Seminoles. If OSU's three games aren't the most challenging for the Big Ten, then Minnesota's series with always strong FSU are. Brian Bull is scheduled to start for Minnesota. FSU counters with RHP Bryan Henry (2-0).
Illinois @ Stetson
Dan Hartleb begins his tenure as Illini head man vs. Hatters. All Big Ten starter Brian Blomquist will pitch the season opener for Illinois. Watch out for Stetson, they are a potential tournament team.
Michigan State @ Lamar
Spartans open '06 with four games in the Lone Star State. MSU's David Grewe is another Big Ten skipper making his debut this weekend.
Purdue @ Louisiana-Lafayette
Boilermakers get a weekend of Cajun cookin' to begin the new year. Look for Jay Buente to start on the mound for Purdue.
Northwestern @ Louisville
Cardinals host Wildcats in a Friday doubleheader and a single game Saturday. George Kontos will take the mound for NU in Game 1. Dan Brauer should be Game Two's starter for the Wildcats.
SATURDAY
Michigan State @ Lamar (Game 1)
Michigan State @ Arkansas State (Game 2)
Illinois vs. South Florida
Jake Toohey is Coach Hartleb's choice in game two. USF took two of three from Northwestern last weekend.
Iowa vs. Illinois State
ISU has two Baseball America all-conference selections: 1B Kyle O'Brien and SS Ryan Antesberger.
Michigan vs. Troy
Michigan will go with another lefthander on Saturday, Paul Hammond.
Ohio State vs. #1 Florida
OSU sophomore LHP Cory Luebke is the likely starter against the top team in the land. Florida is just plain loaded.
Purdue vs. Louisiana-Monroe
Brett Courdon is scheduled to be the Boilers' second starter.
Penn State vs. #18 North Carolina State
Minnesota @ #6 Florida State
It's Cole DeVries (Minnesota) vs. Michael Hyde (FSU) in the second tilt.
Northwestern @ Louisville
RHP Ryan Myers is due to start this game for NU. Cards have a heralded freshman in 3B Chris Dominguez.
Indiana vs. Charlotte
SUNDAY
Illinois vs. Western Carolina
WCU OF Steven Strausbaugh is a pre-season all-conference selection. Illini RHP Scott Shaw should take the mound in the finale of the three game set.
Iowa vs. Dayton
Flyers doubleplay combo Galen Schumm and Michael Massa were named to Baseball America's all-Atlantic 10 conference team.
Michigan vs. South Alabama
Ohio State vs. #12 Missouri
Michigan State vs. Kentucky
Purdue vs. Kansas State
Dan Sattler is the probable starter for Purdue.
Penn State vs. West Virginia
Minnesota @. #6 Florida State
The finale has Dustin Brabender against FSU's Barrett Browning.
Indiana @ Charlotte
That's it for previews. I've got other things to attend to, so I must move on. For next weekend, I'm going to look at altering this format some, probably sticking more to links. Anyway, I hope you all enjoy the first big weekend of action for Big Ten baseball. Thanks for stopping in.
Here's a look at the games with some links tossed in for your enjoyment. A great number of these games will be available via GameTracker and some are being broadcast on the 'net. (For Big Ten baseball homepages, look in the sidebar to the right.)
Friday
Wake Forest vs. Ohio State
Big weekend for Buckeyes begins with Deamon Deacons. Wake freshman Dustin Hood is hitting .455 with posting a .500 mark in both on base and slugging percentage. Matt Antonelli has gone yard twice and is slugging at a .667 clip. I'm guessing OSU will go with LHP Dan DeLucia in the opener.
Iowa @ Austin Peay
Here's the Hawkeye preview of the weekend. Baseball America tabs Austin Peay as the Ohio Valley conference winner this year. They also project APSU lefty Rowdy Hardy as the OVC Player of the Year. The name alone merits him some recognition.
UAB vs. Michigan
Wolverines open 2006 with Blazers. LHP Drew Taylor is scheduled to take the hill for Rich Maloney's team. Many will be wacthing for the debut of herladed freshman Zach Putnam.
Indiana @ Charlotte
Three game set marks the beginning of Tracy Smith's reign as IU head coach.
Penn State @ East Carolina (Friends of ECU Baseball, Unofficial ECU site)
Nittany Lions open up vs. ECU in first of three. PSU's Lance Thompson gets a chance to defend his conference player of the week award.
Minnesota @ # 6 Florida State (Section B, Unofficial FSU site)
Gophers travel to play three with #6 Seminoles. If OSU's three games aren't the most challenging for the Big Ten, then Minnesota's series with always strong FSU are. Brian Bull is scheduled to start for Minnesota. FSU counters with RHP Bryan Henry (2-0).
Illinois @ Stetson
Dan Hartleb begins his tenure as Illini head man vs. Hatters. All Big Ten starter Brian Blomquist will pitch the season opener for Illinois. Watch out for Stetson, they are a potential tournament team.
Michigan State @ Lamar
Spartans open '06 with four games in the Lone Star State. MSU's David Grewe is another Big Ten skipper making his debut this weekend.
Purdue @ Louisiana-Lafayette
Boilermakers get a weekend of Cajun cookin' to begin the new year. Look for Jay Buente to start on the mound for Purdue.
Northwestern @ Louisville
Cardinals host Wildcats in a Friday doubleheader and a single game Saturday. George Kontos will take the mound for NU in Game 1. Dan Brauer should be Game Two's starter for the Wildcats.
SATURDAY
Michigan State @ Lamar (Game 1)
Michigan State @ Arkansas State (Game 2)
Illinois vs. South Florida
Jake Toohey is Coach Hartleb's choice in game two. USF took two of three from Northwestern last weekend.
Iowa vs. Illinois State
ISU has two Baseball America all-conference selections: 1B Kyle O'Brien and SS Ryan Antesberger.
Michigan vs. Troy
Michigan will go with another lefthander on Saturday, Paul Hammond.
Ohio State vs. #1 Florida
OSU sophomore LHP Cory Luebke is the likely starter against the top team in the land. Florida is just plain loaded.
Purdue vs. Louisiana-Monroe
Brett Courdon is scheduled to be the Boilers' second starter.
Penn State vs. #18 North Carolina State
Minnesota @ #6 Florida State
It's Cole DeVries (Minnesota) vs. Michael Hyde (FSU) in the second tilt.
Northwestern @ Louisville
RHP Ryan Myers is due to start this game for NU. Cards have a heralded freshman in 3B Chris Dominguez.
Indiana vs. Charlotte
SUNDAY
Illinois vs. Western Carolina
WCU OF Steven Strausbaugh is a pre-season all-conference selection. Illini RHP Scott Shaw should take the mound in the finale of the three game set.
Iowa vs. Dayton
Flyers doubleplay combo Galen Schumm and Michael Massa were named to Baseball America's all-Atlantic 10 conference team.
Michigan vs. South Alabama
Ohio State vs. #12 Missouri
Michigan State vs. Kentucky
Purdue vs. Kansas State
Dan Sattler is the probable starter for Purdue.
Penn State vs. West Virginia
Minnesota @. #6 Florida State
The finale has Dustin Brabender against FSU's Barrett Browning.
Indiana @ Charlotte
That's it for previews. I've got other things to attend to, so I must move on. For next weekend, I'm going to look at altering this format some, probably sticking more to links. Anyway, I hope you all enjoy the first big weekend of action for Big Ten baseball. Thanks for stopping in.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Heading Into Sunday
Penn State has dropped both games to Tulane, 9-4 on Friday, 11-0 today. (PSU recaps, Tulane recaps.) The Nittany Lions did outhit the Green Wave Friday evening, 13-9, but still came out on the short end. PSU OF Lance Thompson paced the Lions offense with three hits and a RBI. RF Brian Ernst also had three hits for PSU.
2B Brad Emaus homered and had three RBI for Tulane in the opener. Green Wave redshirt freshman OF Warren McFadden had two hits and three RBI, as well. Alan Stidfole took the loss, Brandon Gomes notched the victory.
Today's contest was dominated by Tulane RHP Sean Morgan. The sophomore struck out a career high eleven batters in six innings of work. The Wave also pounded out 15 hits. Cat Everett continued his strong start collecting three safties in Saturday's affair. (Note to self: Tulane is good. Very good.)
Nittany Lions' catcher James Spinelli was the bright spot on offense with two hits. PSU's Mark Wyner took the loss. (My apologies, Mark. PSU doesn't provide a link to your bio as of yet.)
On a happier note, Northwestern has a chance to win their series tomorrow. The Wildcats have split their two contests against VCU. (NU game one recap.) NU dropped the opener, 4-3. VCU's Scott Sizemore's two out double in the bottom of the ninth won it for the Rams.
Wildcats' DH Antonio Mule continued his fast start, hitting his second homer of the year. NU's George Kontos went seven innings allowing five hits and walking four. He allowed two runs, but only a single run was earned. Kontos didn't figure in the decision, Dan Schwartz took the loss, and wasn't the pitching story of game one. That belonged to Virginia Commenwealth's Harold Mozingo.
The Rams hurler fanned thirteen NU batters in seven innings. Mozingo yielded four hits and all three Wildcat runs. In spite of his prodigious strike out total, Mozingo didn't get a decision, either. The win went the reliever Brett Walker who only faced two batters.
Rams' LF Kwan Evans' three hits, including a round tripper, topped the VCU attack in the opening game of the three game set.
In game two, Northwestern scored twice in the ninth inning and three more in the tenth to topple VCU, 6-5. Centerfielder Aaron Newman led the offensive charge with three hits and two RBI for Northwestern. Jake Owens, Jake Wilson and Tommy Finn each had two hits a piece for NU.
The win went to Wildcat reliever Andrew Smith who pitched four innings. Starter Dan Brauer went five innings fanning seven and relinquishing only one run. Schwartz notched his first save of 2006. VCU starter John Leonard, like Brauer, also went five and struck out seven. The loss went to Rams' reliever Jared Bolden.
Sizemore remained a pain for NU pitchers in game two. The secondbaseman had two triples and scored three times. (Note: Sizemore is good. Very good.) Tim St. Clair also homered for the Rams.
Both the PSU vs. Tulane and NU vs. VCU series wrap up tomorrow.
I wouldn't count on me providing such link filled recaps on a regular basis, but I had the time today and college baseball players need all the publicity they can get. Even if its only a tiny blog like this one.
2B Brad Emaus homered and had three RBI for Tulane in the opener. Green Wave redshirt freshman OF Warren McFadden had two hits and three RBI, as well. Alan Stidfole took the loss, Brandon Gomes notched the victory.
Today's contest was dominated by Tulane RHP Sean Morgan. The sophomore struck out a career high eleven batters in six innings of work. The Wave also pounded out 15 hits. Cat Everett continued his strong start collecting three safties in Saturday's affair. (Note to self: Tulane is good. Very good.)
Nittany Lions' catcher James Spinelli was the bright spot on offense with two hits. PSU's Mark Wyner took the loss. (My apologies, Mark. PSU doesn't provide a link to your bio as of yet.)
On a happier note, Northwestern has a chance to win their series tomorrow. The Wildcats have split their two contests against VCU. (NU game one recap.) NU dropped the opener, 4-3. VCU's Scott Sizemore's two out double in the bottom of the ninth won it for the Rams.
Wildcats' DH Antonio Mule continued his fast start, hitting his second homer of the year. NU's George Kontos went seven innings allowing five hits and walking four. He allowed two runs, but only a single run was earned. Kontos didn't figure in the decision, Dan Schwartz took the loss, and wasn't the pitching story of game one. That belonged to Virginia Commenwealth's Harold Mozingo.
The Rams hurler fanned thirteen NU batters in seven innings. Mozingo yielded four hits and all three Wildcat runs. In spite of his prodigious strike out total, Mozingo didn't get a decision, either. The win went the reliever Brett Walker who only faced two batters.
Rams' LF Kwan Evans' three hits, including a round tripper, topped the VCU attack in the opening game of the three game set.
In game two, Northwestern scored twice in the ninth inning and three more in the tenth to topple VCU, 6-5. Centerfielder Aaron Newman led the offensive charge with three hits and two RBI for Northwestern. Jake Owens, Jake Wilson and Tommy Finn each had two hits a piece for NU.
The win went to Wildcat reliever Andrew Smith who pitched four innings. Starter Dan Brauer went five innings fanning seven and relinquishing only one run. Schwartz notched his first save of 2006. VCU starter John Leonard, like Brauer, also went five and struck out seven. The loss went to Rams' reliever Jared Bolden.
Sizemore remained a pain for NU pitchers in game two. The secondbaseman had two triples and scored three times. (Note: Sizemore is good. Very good.) Tim St. Clair also homered for the Rams.
Both the PSU vs. Tulane and NU vs. VCU series wrap up tomorrow.
I wouldn't count on me providing such link filled recaps on a regular basis, but I had the time today and college baseball players need all the publicity they can get. Even if its only a tiny blog like this one.
Thursday, February 16, 2006
A Look At The Weekend
Two Big Ten schools have games this weekend. Northwestern continues on with a three game set against Virginia Commonwealth. Penn State's season begins with a visit to New Orleans to take on #9 Tulane.
The Wildcats (1-2) have a tough battle with VCU (2-0) beginning Friday night. The Rams feature all-conference 2B Scott Sizemore. Sizemore (.364/12/56) is considered by some to be the front runner for the Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Year. Sergio Miranda, Sizemore's doubleplay partner, was also named a pre-season All CAA player by Baseball America.
RHP Harlod Mozingo (1-0) should probably take to the hill in Game 1. Mozingo was named BA's Pitcher of the Year and is also considered the best pitching prospect in the CAA. Northwestern will probably counter with George Kontos.
NU's Antonio Mule hit .400 versus South Florida last week earning the sophomore the Big Ten Player of the Week honor. Mule's teammate, Dan Schwartz was named Big Ten Pitcher of the Week for his win over USF.
The Nittany Lions season begins with a three game series versus the Green Wave (3-1). The series should be quite a test for Robbie Wine's squad, as Tulane is ranked as high as ninth nationally (NCBWA poll) and, in spite of their youth, clearly look like a tournament team again in 2006. The Green Wave squad also has the advantage of having four games under their belt including a victory over defending national champion, Texas. Not that they need any extra help.
Tulane is led offensively by three Baseball America pre-season all-conference selections: Mark Hamilton (1B), Brad Emaus (3B) and Nathan Southard (OF). The Wave can also boast of incoming freshman, Aja Barto (OF) who BA selected as it's Conference USA Freshman of the Year. Sophomore 2B Cat Everett has started '06 on fire. Everett is pacing the Green Wave with a .429 average through the first four contests.
Tulane doesn't lack for pitching promise, either. Sean Morgan went 6-1 with five saves a year ago and is another potential all-conference choice. Closer Daniel Latham led C-USA in saves last season with 13. He has already earned two saves this year. Stephen Porlier (7.0 IP), Billy Mohl (7.0 IP) and Trey Martin (4.0) have each earned a win in '06 and all three have an ERA of 0.00.
There is also a fan run site for Tulane baseball. WaveBaseball.com provides tons of coverage as does the official team site (link in first paragraph).
While Penn State is projected to finish in the bottom half of the Big Ten, there are reasons of optimism in Happy Valley. PSU has, on paper, a decent enough offense. Matt Lewis, Lance Thompson, Joe Blackburn and Scott Gummo had fine seasons in '05. Alan Stidfole (6-4) returns to anchor the Lions staff.
The series will be broadcast on the internet with a link at PSU's site. Gametracker is available for the series, as well.
The Wildcats (1-2) have a tough battle with VCU (2-0) beginning Friday night. The Rams feature all-conference 2B Scott Sizemore. Sizemore (.364/12/56) is considered by some to be the front runner for the Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Year. Sergio Miranda, Sizemore's doubleplay partner, was also named a pre-season All CAA player by Baseball America.
RHP Harlod Mozingo (1-0) should probably take to the hill in Game 1. Mozingo was named BA's Pitcher of the Year and is also considered the best pitching prospect in the CAA. Northwestern will probably counter with George Kontos.
NU's Antonio Mule hit .400 versus South Florida last week earning the sophomore the Big Ten Player of the Week honor. Mule's teammate, Dan Schwartz was named Big Ten Pitcher of the Week for his win over USF.
The Nittany Lions season begins with a three game series versus the Green Wave (3-1). The series should be quite a test for Robbie Wine's squad, as Tulane is ranked as high as ninth nationally (NCBWA poll) and, in spite of their youth, clearly look like a tournament team again in 2006. The Green Wave squad also has the advantage of having four games under their belt including a victory over defending national champion, Texas. Not that they need any extra help.
Tulane is led offensively by three Baseball America pre-season all-conference selections: Mark Hamilton (1B), Brad Emaus (3B) and Nathan Southard (OF). The Wave can also boast of incoming freshman, Aja Barto (OF) who BA selected as it's Conference USA Freshman of the Year. Sophomore 2B Cat Everett has started '06 on fire. Everett is pacing the Green Wave with a .429 average through the first four contests.
Tulane doesn't lack for pitching promise, either. Sean Morgan went 6-1 with five saves a year ago and is another potential all-conference choice. Closer Daniel Latham led C-USA in saves last season with 13. He has already earned two saves this year. Stephen Porlier (7.0 IP), Billy Mohl (7.0 IP) and Trey Martin (4.0) have each earned a win in '06 and all three have an ERA of 0.00.
There is also a fan run site for Tulane baseball. WaveBaseball.com provides tons of coverage as does the official team site (link in first paragraph).
While Penn State is projected to finish in the bottom half of the Big Ten, there are reasons of optimism in Happy Valley. PSU has, on paper, a decent enough offense. Matt Lewis, Lance Thompson, Joe Blackburn and Scott Gummo had fine seasons in '05. Alan Stidfole (6-4) returns to anchor the Lions staff.
The series will be broadcast on the internet with a link at PSU's site. Gametracker is available for the series, as well.
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Nittany Lions Preview
Corey McLauglin, of The Digital Collegian, takes a look at Penn State's squad heading into this weekend's opening series versus Tulane.
Saturday, February 11, 2006
Wildcats Win In Extra Innings
In a game dominated by pitching and a lengthy rain delay, Northwestern collected it's first triumph of 2006. The Wildcats beat South Florida, 2-0, in thirteen innings Saturday afternoon. Dan Brauer started for the 'Cats (1-1) and went five innings allowing only one hit and fanning eight Bulls batters. Brauer was followed by Andrew Smith who pitched another five innings of three hit ball. Dan Schwartz went the final three allowing only a single safety to earn the win.
USF (1-1) sent five hurlers to the mound and struck out fifteen NU hitters, but couldn't muster any offense. Wildcats' 2B Jake Owens had hit second straight two hit contest to pace NU's offense. Geoff Dietz and Stanley Finch had an RBI a piece. (Boxscore)
The final game of the weekend series is slated for Sunday afternoon.
USF (1-1) sent five hurlers to the mound and struck out fifteen NU hitters, but couldn't muster any offense. Wildcats' 2B Jake Owens had hit second straight two hit contest to pace NU's offense. Geoff Dietz and Stanley Finch had an RBI a piece. (Boxscore)
The final game of the weekend series is slated for Sunday afternoon.
Wildcats Fall To USF, 5-2
Northwestern lost it's season opener to South Florida, 5-2, Friday night. (Here is the boxscore.)Ty Taborelli and Mike Consolmagno each drove in a pair of runs for USF. Jake Owens had two hits for the 'Cats.
Casey Hudspeth fanned ten NU batters and picked up the win. George Kontos, NU's starter, struck out six Bulls, but took the loss. The two teams play game two of their three game set this afternoon at Red McEwen Field.
Casey Hudspeth fanned ten NU batters and picked up the win. George Kontos, NU's starter, struck out six Bulls, but took the loss. The two teams play game two of their three game set this afternoon at Red McEwen Field.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
NU Opens Season Tomorrow
Northwestern will begin its 2006 campaign Friday with a game against South Florida. The Wildcats site provides this preview of their opener. The Bulls official site provides this brief look at the first game and attaches a PDF link for more information. The Adobe file is loaded with quality information. The game is the first of a three game weekend series between the two clubs.
As usual, the Friday night affair could be a very good pitching match-up. Casey Hudspeth is USF's starter while George Kontos counters for the 'Cats. The first pitch is slated for around 7:00pm tomorrow night. Unfortunately, it does not appear as their will be any radio, television or gametracker available.
As usual, the Friday night affair could be a very good pitching match-up. Casey Hudspeth is USF's starter while George Kontos counters for the 'Cats. The first pitch is slated for around 7:00pm tomorrow night. Unfortunately, it does not appear as their will be any radio, television or gametracker available.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
New Additions At Indiana
Jake Brown, of the Indiana Daily Student, pens this piece on Indiana new head coach, Tracy Smith. This is Smith's initial campaign with the Hoosiers.
In other baseball news from Bloomington, Smith has added two players from big time programs. Tad Reida and Brett Sager will play for IU this season after playing at Wichita State and LSU, respectively.
In other baseball news from Bloomington, Smith has added two players from big time programs. Tad Reida and Brett Sager will play for IU this season after playing at Wichita State and LSU, respectively.
Friday, February 03, 2006
Clemens Award Watch List Announced
Apparently, today is the day I find out about "Watch Lists". First, the NCBWA Stopper of the Year, now the Roger Clemens Award Watch List. The Clemens Award Watch List has been out a while, but I didn't see any mention of it. I probably never caught wind of it because no Big Ten pitcher made the list.
I'm kind of surprised that Illinois' Brian Blomquist didn't garner some pre-season love from the Clemens Award committee, but such is the life of a Big Ten hurler. I'd encourage you to check out the list even without any arms from our area.
A side note, USC's Ian Kennedy is pitching tonight against fellow Clemens Award nominee Jared Hughes of Long Beach State.
I'm kind of surprised that Illinois' Brian Blomquist didn't garner some pre-season love from the Clemens Award committee, but such is the life of a Big Ten hurler. I'd encourage you to check out the list even without any arms from our area.
A side note, USC's Ian Kennedy is pitching tonight against fellow Clemens Award nominee Jared Hughes of Long Beach State.
Meister Makes Watch List
The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association has released its Stopper of the Year Watch List. Rory Meister of Ohio State is the only Big Ten closer to garner a pre-season nod from the NCBWA. Here is the Buckeyes press release regarding Meister's recognition.
This Weekend
Baseball America's Will Kimmey previews the weekend match-ups. Of this weekend's games, the series I most look forward to is Cal State Fullerton @ Stanford. It's the kind of baseball battle, between two tradition powers, that made me a college baseball fan way back when. Besides, I like the Cardinal program.
The USC vs. Long Beach State series, with the Dirtbags hosting two of three, is probably the most significant match-up. Two ranked teams battling in an early season home and home and home series.
I feel for LBSU's Evan Longoria. Although one of the country's top players, being only one letter removed from comparisons to a Desperate Housewife must make life difficult.
The Rosenblatt Report's Kendall Rogers also provides a look ahead to this weekend's hardball action. He thinks the Tennessee vs. Florida Atlantic confrontation might be the best of the bunch.
The USC vs. Long Beach State series, with the Dirtbags hosting two of three, is probably the most significant match-up. Two ranked teams battling in an early season home and home and home series.
I feel for LBSU's Evan Longoria. Although one of the country's top players, being only one letter removed from comparisons to a Desperate Housewife must make life difficult.
The Rosenblatt Report's Kendall Rogers also provides a look ahead to this weekend's hardball action. He thinks the Tennessee vs. Florida Atlantic confrontation might be the best of the bunch.
Friday, January 27, 2006
My Turn, Joanna
I've been having a dialogue with Texas blogger, Joanna, that began with my post about the uniform start date the NCAA recently agreed to. Our open chat has also veered off into the debate over athletics versus academics and the north vs. south dilemma college baseball has. As Joanna lobbed the last round, I guess it's my turn to reply.
We completely agree on the athletics versus academics issue. The NCAA and, more importantly, it's member institutions need to figure out where their responsibility to the "student/athlete" lies. Are colleges responsible to make sure their athletes graduate or just provide them with a training ground to become pro athletes? If their objective is solely to prepare people for the next phase of life then, perhaps, it's time to discuss things like stipends and making the athletes "representatives" of the schools not "students". Having said all this, do I believe any such decision is in the offing? Not a chance. (My problems with the NCAA are a different post entirely.)
As for college baseball's north/south inequity, Joanna correctly points out that northern schools should make more of a commitment to baseball. I couldn't agree more, but it's a chicken and egg problem. What comes first: fan interest or an institution's financial commitment? Is attendance sub-standard because of a lack of interest or because of less-than-ideal weather? Are athletes drawn to southern schools to play baseball because of poor facilities in the north or the lousy weather or both? As baseball isn't an inexpensive sport to play, it's a great leap of faith for athletic departments to commit to building new baseball stadiums when there are so many unknown factors.
Building an indoor facility might occur at a big revenue school, but can you see Maine building a dome for baseball? How many programs are really in a position to build an indoor baseball field? I would suspect very few. Doing so would only further the gap between baseball haves and have nots. Honestly, I'd also worry that the combination of metal bats and plastic grass might alienate old school baseball fans.
However, I think we are all about to get a better idea about the answer to the question "If they build it, will they come?". Penn State is in the process of building a new facility which they intend to share with a minor league team. Michigan State is increasing it's home dates at Oldsmobile Park, home of the Lansing Lugnuts. Minnesota plays a number of games at the Metrodome. There have been rumors for about two years in regards to a new baseball stadium being built in Ann Arbor and arch-rival Ohio State already plays in a great new facility, Bill Davis Stadium.
Within the next three or four years, we will see if better facilities will help generate interest, increase revenue and attract better recruiting classes. Regardless, the Big Ten can build all the shiny new diamonds they like, but it isn't going to stop the snow or cold. That's why the start date is so important. Even if Michigan, using Joanna's example, builds a new yard, they still probably can't play a home game much earlier than they do now. Yes, building a covered ballpark would solve that, but how many southern schools are going to volunteer to come north in February and March when they have a line of northern schools willing to visit them?
In drawing comparisons to other "northern" schools, Joanna accurately states that Nebraska has done well in baseball and Oregon State is fielding a very good squad currently. In Nebraska's case, they have a distinct advantage--Omaha. When your region hosts the game's annual championship series, interest is bound to be high. If Ann Arbor or Minneapolis hosted the College World Series, I suspect both local school's baseball programs would be more well received. (Not that Michigan and Minnesota don't have a solid base of fans, because they do. They just aren't as large as they could be. Remember, Big Ten kids, I'm on your side. No hate mail, please.)
I would classify Oregon State's current success as an anomaly. If the Beavers can maintain their current status in the ultra competitive Pac-10 for an extended period, then I'll re-consider my position. (I'm rooting for you, though, OSU.) About the only school I would really tab as a northern success might be Notre Dame. And for all their top 25 rankings and good recruiting classes, I doubt many would put the Irish on the same level as SEC, Big XII or Pac-10 programs.
In the end, Joanna, we actually agree on almost everything. In particular, I concur that there are simply no easy answers. Hopefully, northern schools will get the incentive to commit more resources to baseball so that fans up here can enjoy college baseball at the same level you do at Texas. I'm grateful that you stopped in and shared your thoughts. I hope you continue to do so.
We completely agree on the athletics versus academics issue. The NCAA and, more importantly, it's member institutions need to figure out where their responsibility to the "student/athlete" lies. Are colleges responsible to make sure their athletes graduate or just provide them with a training ground to become pro athletes? If their objective is solely to prepare people for the next phase of life then, perhaps, it's time to discuss things like stipends and making the athletes "representatives" of the schools not "students". Having said all this, do I believe any such decision is in the offing? Not a chance. (My problems with the NCAA are a different post entirely.)
As for college baseball's north/south inequity, Joanna correctly points out that northern schools should make more of a commitment to baseball. I couldn't agree more, but it's a chicken and egg problem. What comes first: fan interest or an institution's financial commitment? Is attendance sub-standard because of a lack of interest or because of less-than-ideal weather? Are athletes drawn to southern schools to play baseball because of poor facilities in the north or the lousy weather or both? As baseball isn't an inexpensive sport to play, it's a great leap of faith for athletic departments to commit to building new baseball stadiums when there are so many unknown factors.
Building an indoor facility might occur at a big revenue school, but can you see Maine building a dome for baseball? How many programs are really in a position to build an indoor baseball field? I would suspect very few. Doing so would only further the gap between baseball haves and have nots. Honestly, I'd also worry that the combination of metal bats and plastic grass might alienate old school baseball fans.
However, I think we are all about to get a better idea about the answer to the question "If they build it, will they come?". Penn State is in the process of building a new facility which they intend to share with a minor league team. Michigan State is increasing it's home dates at Oldsmobile Park, home of the Lansing Lugnuts. Minnesota plays a number of games at the Metrodome. There have been rumors for about two years in regards to a new baseball stadium being built in Ann Arbor and arch-rival Ohio State already plays in a great new facility, Bill Davis Stadium.
Within the next three or four years, we will see if better facilities will help generate interest, increase revenue and attract better recruiting classes. Regardless, the Big Ten can build all the shiny new diamonds they like, but it isn't going to stop the snow or cold. That's why the start date is so important. Even if Michigan, using Joanna's example, builds a new yard, they still probably can't play a home game much earlier than they do now. Yes, building a covered ballpark would solve that, but how many southern schools are going to volunteer to come north in February and March when they have a line of northern schools willing to visit them?
In drawing comparisons to other "northern" schools, Joanna accurately states that Nebraska has done well in baseball and Oregon State is fielding a very good squad currently. In Nebraska's case, they have a distinct advantage--Omaha. When your region hosts the game's annual championship series, interest is bound to be high. If Ann Arbor or Minneapolis hosted the College World Series, I suspect both local school's baseball programs would be more well received. (Not that Michigan and Minnesota don't have a solid base of fans, because they do. They just aren't as large as they could be. Remember, Big Ten kids, I'm on your side. No hate mail, please.)
I would classify Oregon State's current success as an anomaly. If the Beavers can maintain their current status in the ultra competitive Pac-10 for an extended period, then I'll re-consider my position. (I'm rooting for you, though, OSU.) About the only school I would really tab as a northern success might be Notre Dame. And for all their top 25 rankings and good recruiting classes, I doubt many would put the Irish on the same level as SEC, Big XII or Pac-10 programs.
In the end, Joanna, we actually agree on almost everything. In particular, I concur that there are simply no easy answers. Hopefully, northern schools will get the incentive to commit more resources to baseball so that fans up here can enjoy college baseball at the same level you do at Texas. I'm grateful that you stopped in and shared your thoughts. I hope you continue to do so.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
OSU Captains, Illini Practice And Two Ex-Michigan Stars
In my email box today, I find a press release from Todd Lamb at Ohio State. Lamb, the Assistant Athletics Communications Director at OSU, President of the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association and The Hardest Working Man In Show Business, informs us all that the Buckeyes have named their 2006 captains.
Dan DeLucia, Jacob Howell and Jedidiah Stephen have been chosen by their teammates as captains this year. Congratulations to all three on the honor. Here is the official release.
In other Big Ten baseball news, Lucas Deal, of the Daily Illini, pens this piece about Illinois' first practice of 2006. New coach Dan Hartleb has to replace a number of players this year.
Finally, in browsing through Fox Sports' Dayn Perry's list of the Top 100 MLB prospects, I've found two Big Ten players. Former Michigan Wolverines Rich Hill and Jake Fox have made the list that is still a work in progress. Hill came in at number seventy-one, while Fox is number ninety.
Dan DeLucia, Jacob Howell and Jedidiah Stephen have been chosen by their teammates as captains this year. Congratulations to all three on the honor. Here is the official release.
In other Big Ten baseball news, Lucas Deal, of the Daily Illini, pens this piece about Illinois' first practice of 2006. New coach Dan Hartleb has to replace a number of players this year.
Finally, in browsing through Fox Sports' Dayn Perry's list of the Top 100 MLB prospects, I've found two Big Ten players. Former Michigan Wolverines Rich Hill and Jake Fox have made the list that is still a work in progress. Hill came in at number seventy-one, while Fox is number ninety.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Uniform Start Date Measure Passes
The NCAA has adopted a Big Ten driven initiative to create a uniform start date for all college baseball programs. This is good news for all the teams in the less than ideal baseball climates. It helps level the playing field, albeit only slightly.
I'm still baffled as to how the member institutions believe schools in the north can actual compete with programs in the south. Maine, for one example, is going to play its first twenty-six games away from home this year. That's 26 consecutive road games to start the season. It's absurd to think that a university can sustain a baseball program, or interest in a baseball program, when the first month's worth of contest occur elsewhere.
I readily admit to being a fan of baseball in the snowbelt, but at a time when equity is the buzzword around college athletics, I'm confused as to how anyone views college baseball's caste system as equal?
I'm still baffled as to how the member institutions believe schools in the north can actual compete with programs in the south. Maine, for one example, is going to play its first twenty-six games away from home this year. That's 26 consecutive road games to start the season. It's absurd to think that a university can sustain a baseball program, or interest in a baseball program, when the first month's worth of contest occur elsewhere.
I readily admit to being a fan of baseball in the snowbelt, but at a time when equity is the buzzword around college athletics, I'm confused as to how anyone views college baseball's caste system as equal?
Strength Of Schedule Rankings
Boyd Nation, college baseball numbers guru and proprietor of Boyd's World.com, has ranked every school's 2006 strength of schedule. Here is a link to his analysis. What are you still doing here? Go read it.
Big Ten Notes From B.A. Preview
Baseball America has started to release it's college baseball preview. Now, in light of any possible plagerism/copyright lawsuit and because I actually pay to read this stuff, I'm only going to share some tidbits of information from their website. If you desire more, I strongly encourage you to subscribe or find a copy of their annual preview (which has apparently already come and gone of my bookstores' shelves).
Ohio State was BA's choice to claim the Big Ten title. Collegiate Baseball Newspaper has the Buckeyes selected to win the Big Ten, as well. Just as it appears Texas will be a consensus number one team heading into the season, Ohio State is clearly everyone's choice to grab the Big Ten.
Only one Big Ten athlete made Baseball America's Top 50 freshman. Much heralded Zach Putnam of Michigan was considered the fourth best freshman baseball player in the land. Obviously, a great deal is going to be expected from this first year phenom.
Conversely, not a single Big Ten player managed to get on Baseball America's Top 50 sophomore list. I thought Cory Luebke, Ohio State, might merit a selection, but he didn't make it. I also found it odd that Collegiate Baseball left Luebke off their "Others To Watch" list for the Big Ten. Must have been an oversight, the kid's pretty good.
Just as he did with Collegiate Baseball, Mitch Hilligoss was BA's pre-season choice as Player of the Year in the Big Ten. While Collegiate Baseball named Iowa's Tim Gudex as it's Big Ten Pitcher of the Year, Baseball America went with Minnesota's John Gaub. BA also considers Gaub the best MLB prospect in the conference.
Ohio State was BA's choice to claim the Big Ten title. Collegiate Baseball Newspaper has the Buckeyes selected to win the Big Ten, as well. Just as it appears Texas will be a consensus number one team heading into the season, Ohio State is clearly everyone's choice to grab the Big Ten.
Only one Big Ten athlete made Baseball America's Top 50 freshman. Much heralded Zach Putnam of Michigan was considered the fourth best freshman baseball player in the land. Obviously, a great deal is going to be expected from this first year phenom.
Conversely, not a single Big Ten player managed to get on Baseball America's Top 50 sophomore list. I thought Cory Luebke, Ohio State, might merit a selection, but he didn't make it. I also found it odd that Collegiate Baseball left Luebke off their "Others To Watch" list for the Big Ten. Must have been an oversight, the kid's pretty good.
Just as he did with Collegiate Baseball, Mitch Hilligoss was BA's pre-season choice as Player of the Year in the Big Ten. While Collegiate Baseball named Iowa's Tim Gudex as it's Big Ten Pitcher of the Year, Baseball America went with Minnesota's John Gaub. BA also considers Gaub the best MLB prospect in the conference.
NCBWA Releases Pre-Season Poll
The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association has joined in with everyone else and named Texas as its pre-season number one team. The NCBWA top five also contains Florida, Oregon State, Rice and Nebraska.
No Big Ten institution made the NCBWA's top thirty, although Ohio State and Minnesota did garner some votes. I'm a bit surprised Purdue didn't get an honorable mention, but only a tiny bit. The Boilermakers and the rest of the Big Ten will have to win their way into national recognition during the season.
No Big Ten institution made the NCBWA's top thirty, although Ohio State and Minnesota did garner some votes. I'm a bit surprised Purdue didn't get an honorable mention, but only a tiny bit. The Boilermakers and the rest of the Big Ten will have to win their way into national recognition during the season.
Saturday, January 14, 2006
More Big Ten OPS Numbers
Yes, I've been using the old calculator, again. I've got an slightly expanded list of 2005 OPS numbers for some returning Big Ten players. I'm not even pretending this is a complete list of returnees. Nor am I claiming the numbers are 100% accurate. Remember, I had to use a calculator. If you note an error or two, in math, spelling or eligibility, please let me know.
Pat McMahon, Northwestern 1.028
Ryan Basham, Michigan State .997
Zach Boswell, Indiana .992
Jeff Kunkel, Michigan .978
Mitch Hilligoss, Purdue .964
Jay Brant, Indiana .955
Andy Hunter, Minnesota .917
Neal Gorka, Purdue .909
Matt Lewis, Penn State .907
Ryan Parker, Indiana .897
Mike Rohde, Illinois .890
Troy Krider, Michigan State .882
A.J. Scheidt, Michigan .874
Reggie Watson, Indiana .867
Jedidiah Stephen, Ohio State .804
Nate Price, Iowa .795
Matt Angle, Ohio State .754
Ronnie Bourquin, Ohio State .717
Pat McMahon, Northwestern 1.028
Ryan Basham, Michigan State .997
Zach Boswell, Indiana .992
Jeff Kunkel, Michigan .978
Mitch Hilligoss, Purdue .964
Jay Brant, Indiana .955
Andy Hunter, Minnesota .917
Neal Gorka, Purdue .909
Matt Lewis, Penn State .907
Ryan Parker, Indiana .897
Mike Rohde, Illinois .890
Troy Krider, Michigan State .882
A.J. Scheidt, Michigan .874
Reggie Watson, Indiana .867
Jedidiah Stephen, Ohio State .804
Nate Price, Iowa .795
Matt Angle, Ohio State .754
Ronnie Bourquin, Ohio State .717
Collegiate Baseball Conference Predictions
My Collegiate Baseball pre-season preview has arrived. It's up to its usual standard-tons of information. I'm still waiting for Baseball America to update its online site with all their college material. As I subscribe to their online content, I was hoping to avoid having to pick-up a hard copy of their preview edition. Yet, I see a picture of their '06 preview on their site which leads me to believe it's available now.
Does this mean the preview was already published and I probably cannot get it at the local bookstore because it's previous edition? (I've had no luck so far.) Is their website not going to have their complete college preview? Are they that slow in uploading the data to their site? What gives?
Anyway, back to Collegiate Baseball. Amongst all the national previews, CB has predicted Ohio State will capture the Big Ten Conference title. The Buckeyes are followed by Purdue, Minnesota, Michigan and Iowa. If you want to know the bottom half of their Big Ten predictions, email me. For now, I'll attempt to get a few more of you to give the nice folks at Collegiate Baseball the three dollars necessary to get your own copy.
CB goes on to name project Iowa lefty Tim Gedux as the conference's Pitcher of the Year. Gedux was second in the conference with a 2.55 ERA. He also notched nine wins and six saves in the 2005 season.
Mitch Hilligoss, Purdue's shortstop and pre-season All-America candidate, was named the Player of the Year. As I've stated here before, Hilligoss is the conference's defending batting champion with a .404 mark. Hilligoss also slugged at a .535 clip and stole 25 bases.
Does this mean the preview was already published and I probably cannot get it at the local bookstore because it's previous edition? (I've had no luck so far.) Is their website not going to have their complete college preview? Are they that slow in uploading the data to their site? What gives?
Anyway, back to Collegiate Baseball. Amongst all the national previews, CB has predicted Ohio State will capture the Big Ten Conference title. The Buckeyes are followed by Purdue, Minnesota, Michigan and Iowa. If you want to know the bottom half of their Big Ten predictions, email me. For now, I'll attempt to get a few more of you to give the nice folks at Collegiate Baseball the three dollars necessary to get your own copy.
CB goes on to name project Iowa lefty Tim Gedux as the conference's Pitcher of the Year. Gedux was second in the conference with a 2.55 ERA. He also notched nine wins and six saves in the 2005 season.
Mitch Hilligoss, Purdue's shortstop and pre-season All-America candidate, was named the Player of the Year. As I've stated here before, Hilligoss is the conference's defending batting champion with a .404 mark. Hilligoss also slugged at a .535 clip and stole 25 bases.
Thursday, January 05, 2006
'Horns Hook Another Honor
Texas, fresh off it's college football title, sits atop Baseball America's pre-season baseball poll. The Longhorns, who are also the defending baseball champs, are followed by Clemson, Florida, Georgia Tech and Cal State Fullerton.
Not surprisingly, no Big Ten school merited a top twenty-five nod from B.A. On the bright side, two Big Ten programs were projected into the sixty-four team College World Series field--Ohio State and Purdue.
Not surprisingly, no Big Ten school merited a top twenty-five nod from B.A. On the bright side, two Big Ten programs were projected into the sixty-four team College World Series field--Ohio State and Purdue.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
