NAIA Baseball Weekly Awards Announced - #3

From Summer Ball News Source
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Austin Goolsby of Embry-Riddle (Fla.) has been selected as the NAIA Baseball Player of the Week while Joshua Worrell of Indiana Wesleyan was awarded the NAIA Baseball Pitcher of the Week, for the week of March 23-29.

Goolsby, a 6-3 junior catcher from Coppell, Texas hit .625 and knocked three home runs on a 3-0 week for the ERAU Eagles. In the first game of the series with Northwood (Fla.), Austin was a double shy of the cycle, going 3-for-4 with a triple, a homer and four RBI. One day later, Austin then bashed two round trippers becoming just the 21st player in school history to hit two homers in the same game. Northwood proceeded to intentionally walk Austin two more times in that game and once more on Sunday. Read the rest of this entry here.

Sharks Sign Pitchers from Utah

From Summer Ball News Source
WILMINGTON, N.C. - The Wilmington Sharks have signed two pitchers from the University of Utah, the latest additions to the 2009 roster. Sophomore, relief pitchers Tyler Anderson and Stephen Streich have committed to joining the Sharks for the summer season.

Last season at Utah, Anderson kept opposing teams at bay with a 2.95 ERA, holding batters to a .287 avg. He pitched 21 innings, made 17 relief appearances, and made 15 strikeouts. In his senior year of high school in Utah, the 5A state MVP and first team all-state honoree helped lead his team to a state championship.

His college teammate Streich, finished his 2008 season at Utah with 20 strikeouts and 4.91 ERA, while limiting opposing teams to a .279 batting average. A transfer student from the University of San Diego, he made 17 relief appearance and recorded 20 strikeouts. He helped lead his high school to a state championship and a number 23 national ranking his junior year in Phoenix, Ariz.

"This is my first year as a Shark," said Streich. "But I'm very anxious to get out there and be a part of the team."

Both players look forward to joining the Sharks and being involved with another organization.

"I love playing on the road," said Streich. "So summer ball is a lot like one really long road trip. And I really like meeting new players and teammates. It's an experience that people will never be able to take away from you."

The Wilmington Sharks are a member of the summer collegiate Coastal Plain League, the nation's hottest summer collegiate baseball league. In 2008 the Sharks drew more than 50,000 fans to the "Shark Tank" for an average of 1,650 per game. For more information on tickets, merchandise or advertising opportunities please call (910) 343.5621 or email info@wilmingtonsharks.com. Opening day is on May 28th, and will be played against the Columbia Blowfish. Game time is at 7p.m. and gates open at 6p.m. The first 1,000 fans will receive Sharks magnet schedules presented by Project Assist and QuitlineNC.com.

HALLETT NAMED PLAYER OF THE WEEK

From Summer Ball News Source
Aaron Hallett propelled Davis & Elkins to a divisional doubleheader sweep over rival West VirginiaWesleyan by notching six hits in eight at-bats...The junior catcher knockedin nine runs and scored six, while blasting a home run and recording a .750batting average for the week. Read the rest of this entry here.

**Aaron played for the Allegany County Nitros last summer.

BABINEAUX AND PERKINS EARN MEAC PLAYER OF THE WEEK HONORS

From Summer Ball News Source
(photo is courtesy of Delaware State)
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (March 31, 2009) – Senior third baseman Ross Babineaux has been named the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Player of the Week and senior right-hander Dan Perkins was named MEAC Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 29 as announced by the conference today.

Babineaux finished the week hitting .625 (10-for-16) with four RBI and four runs scored as Delaware State went 2-2 (2-1 MEAC play). The 6-foot-1 Babineaux led all Hornets in hits (10) and doubles (3) this past week. Babineaux registered a 16 total bases to record a 1.000 slugging percentage and a .657 on-base percentage. Babineaux, who finished the week riding a four-game hitting streak, increased his totals in both multiple-hit contests (13 games) and multiple-RBI outings (5 games). During the team’s first MEAC series of the season, the Torrence, Calif., native, batted .667 with four RBI and four runs scored versus UMES. Babineaux also tallied two stolen bases versus the Hawks and registered 13 totals bases for a slugging percentage of 1.083. During game two of the DSU’s doubleheader with UMES, Babineaux went a perfect 4-for-4 with three RBI and three runs scored. On the season, Babineaux is batting .534 (39-for-73) with 17 RBI and 17 runs scored. The DSU third baseman owns a .685 slugging percentage and a .565 on-base percentage through 22 games (22 starts).

This is Babineaux’ first player of the week honor this season.

Perkins finished the week with 0.00 ERA with 13 strikeouts through eight innings pitched. The right-hander threw one inning of scoreless relief at La Salle (3/25), striking out the side. In his fifth start of the season, Perkins allowed three runs (none earned) on five hits while striking out a career-high 10 batters versus UMES (3/28) improving on his previous career-best (seven versus Wagner during the previous weekend). The Newark, Del., native held the opposition to a .168 batting average this past week. Perkins accounted for 13 of DSU’s 39 total strikeouts last week and improved his season ERA to 3.06. On the year, Perkins is 1-3 with 31 strikeouts in 32 and one-third innings pitched. The 6-foot-4 Perkins is holding opposing hitter to a .213 batting average in seven appearances this season.

This is Perkins’ second-straight weekly MEAC honor of the season.

Skipper pleased with roster progress

From Summer Ball News Source
GREEN BAY, WI –Chuck Lukanen and John Desmarais have signed with the Green Bay Bullfrogs for this upcoming 2009 season, the club announced Tuesday morning.

Lukanen is a 6-foot, 190 pound, left-handed pitcher for the Huskies of Northern Illinois. The junior is a native of Lombard, Ill., and is currently 3-3 with a 3.47 ERA. He has fanned 22 batters in six appearances for the Mid-American Conference leaders. During the week of Mar. 4-11, Lukanen was named MAC Player of the Week for his performances that included a 1-1 record with eight strike outs.

Prior to playing at NIU he pitched on the bump for Northern Iowa Area Community College. NIACC finished the 2008 season with a 36-16 and a No. 13 NJCAA national ranking. Preceding NIACC, Lukanen threw for Minnesota where he appeared in four games before receiving a medical redshirt. At NIU he is studying business and marketing with the intention of starting his own baseball training facility.

Desmarais is a sophomore outfielder for Washington State University. The 5-foot-11, 172 pound, left-hander is a part-time starter in the outfield for the Cougars. In his 27 appearances at the plate Desmarais is batting .222 with two doubles, a triple and 10 total bases. He has committed only one error in 15 games played, while the Cougars are second in the Pac-10 in fielding percentage at .972.

The Renton, Washington, native played in 29 games as a freshman including 21 starts. He batted .326 with four doubles, a home run and 17 RBI along with six stolen bases. Desmarais also recorded a season-high four hits in a contest against UNLV before hitting a home run and driving in three runs four days later against Wright State last season. He is studying business at WSU.

“At this point, I am very pleased with how our roster is coming together,” Bullfrogs Field Manager Ron Nedset said. “Building a strong team requires great pitching and solid defense and both of these guys fit the mold, in the overall picture.”

The Green Bay Bullfrogs third season begins at home on May 28th against the Waterloo Bucks with the first pitch scheduled for 6:35 p.m. at Joannes Stadium. For everything else Bullfrogs, visit the “Official Website of the Green Bay Bullfrogs” at www.greenbaybullfrogs.com.

“With opening day less than two months away the excitement for our third season is building,” Bullfrogs Owner and President Jeff Royle said. “We have worked hard to put together a championship roster.”

Season tickets, group tickets, and group outings can be purchased at the Bullfrogs Executive Offices and Team Store located in the Olde Main Street District of Green Bay at 1306 Main Street or over the phone with a credit/debit card. Visa and MasterCard accepted. Bullfrogs’ office hours are Monday through Friday 9am – 5pm.

The Green Bay Bullfrogs Baseball Club is a member of the Northwoods League, a premier summer collegiate baseball league of fourteen teams located in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Iowa and Canada. The Northwoods League is preparing for its 16th season of play with teams located in Alexandria, Battle Creek, Brainerd, Duluth, Eau Claire, Green Bay, La Crosse, Madison, Mankato, Rochester, St. Cloud, Thunder Bay, Waterloo, and Wausau.

Zelasko Will Return To The Dragons

The DuPage Dragons will welcome back Tom Zelasko for his 2nd stint with the team. Zelasko, a Northern Illinois lefty, was very effective for the Dragons last summer. He went 3-2, and had a 3.02 era in 50.2 innings of work. He walked 20 and struck out 39 batters as well.

Tom is currently 2-1, with a 4.35 era. He leads the team with 16 appearances, and has saved 2 games this season.

Karl Mundt Swinging a Hot Bat

From the Butler BlueSox
Karl Mundt has made the most of his playing time for the Greenwave. In the last couple weeks Mundt has brought his batting average up to .400 and is currently 10 for 25 at the plate. His on base percentage is even more impressive standing at .500 – third best on the Tulane team.

Mundt, a freshman from Mandeville LA also has 4 doubles to his credit, 7 RBI’s – plus a number 2 team ranking in slugging average at .640

Outfielder Pair Represents Edenton Steamers Latest Additions

From Summer Ball News Source
EDENTON, N.C. - All directions point to the Edenton Steamers summer collegiate baseball team, with players from New York and California joining other top talent from throughout America in hopes of winning the 2009 Coastal Plain League championship.

Outfielders Adam Skonieczki (pronounced SKA-NEKKY) of the University at Buffalo and Bill Swanson of California State University-Northridge are the latest additions to the Steamers for the season. They join players from Kentucky, Texas, Arizona, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and North Carolina that will dot the team's roster.

Skonieczki, a 6-foot junior, could be an impact, all-skilled player in the Steamers lineup. At the plate, he can hit for average, power, and control the zone; and he has the speed to be a productive base stealer. Defensively, he can play all three outfield positions.

The Endicott, N.Y., native is hoping to build upon an impressive season last summer with the Maryland Redbirds in the Cal Ripken, Sr. Collegiate League, leading the team in four statistical areas: hitting (.318 batting average), slugging percentage (.477), on-base percentage (.424), and stolen bases (12). He also was one of the league leaders in home runs (4), batting average, and total bases. Defensively, he did not commit an error in 87 outfield chances.

This spring, Skonieczki has produced well for Buffalo, a Mid-American Conference program, with a .315 batting average, 29 hits, 20 runs scored, and eight doubles. The right-handed hitter has had two three-hit games for Buffalo, going 3-for-6 and scoring three runs against Iona on Feb. 28 and 3-for-4 against Portland on March 13. In the field, he has had no errors in 47 chances from the center and right field positions.

Swanson is a 6-1 junior outfielder for CSU-Northridge. Despite seeing most of his action off the bench right now for the Matadors, be it pinch running, on defense, or coming in to hit, he is a candidate for another big summer according to the Edenton staff. He has all the tools that are looked for in a long, lean body, and is a plus runner and thrower from the outfield. Swanson is also a smart player that can bunt and do the little things that are crucial in the wood game. The lefty hitter and thrower showed last summer what he can do in an everyday role and looks to bring that to our level in the CPL.

With the Nampa Stars in the Boise Summer League, Swanson produced gaudy statistics that finished at a .463 batting average, .547 on-base, and .630 slugging mark. He walked (17) more than he fanned (9) and was 14-of-17 in steals. He ranked in the top five in the league in batting, on-base, and slugging averages, runs, RBIs, total bases, and led the league with 50 hits.

The Edenton Steamers open the summer season on May 27 at the Outer Banks Daredevils. The first home game will be on May 28 against the Petersburg Generals. Season tickets ($90) are now available for all 28 home games at historic Hicks Field. For ticket information, call (252) 482-4080.

The Edenton Steamers are a member of the Coastal Plain League, the nation's hottest summer collegiate baseball league. Celebrating its 13th season, the Coastal Plain League features 14 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. The CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with the use of wooden bats. Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both players and hosts. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league website at www.coastalplain.com.

Baseball takes third game and series from Reinhardt, 8-3

From Summer Ball News Source
Waleska, Ga. - In the third and final game of the three-game series with Reinhardt College, the Shorter College Hawks baseball team took the 8-3 win to improve to 3-9 SSAC, while the Eagles fall to 8-6 SSAC. This is the first conference series win for the Hawks.

After two scoreless innings to start the game, the Hawks put three runs up in the top of the third and never relinquished the lead. Shorter got a scare in the bottom of the ninth inning when they were up 8-1, but Reinhardt could only manage to put two on the board as the game ended 8-3.

Joey Taylor finished the game going an impressive 5-for-6 with two runs in the lead-off position. Gustavo Bonilla went 3-for-4 with two runs, four RBIs, and a home run, and Jake Broome was 2-for-4 with an RBI.

Blake Chapman got the win for Shorter, nearly pitching the complete game, gooing 8.1 innings for seven hits, three earned runs, three walks and three strikeouts. Matt Kirksey pitched the final two batters, giving up one hit while striking out one.

Reinhardt's Matt Carter got the loss.

Shorter returns to the diamond on Wednesday for a doubleheader against Tennessee Temple University.

O'Conner Shares Experiences on the Web

From Summer Ball News Source
CINCINNATI - Currently, Xavier catcher Billy O'Conner is leading the team offensively, behind the plate and in cyberspace.

An Indiana University transfer, O'Conner started blogging when he and his roommate saw that a former IU teammate, Chris Hervey, was sharing his thoughts at www.pingbaseball.com.

O'Conner's roommate, also a former IU player, Danny Rosenbaum, saw Hervey's blog and thought that Xavier needed a blogger on the site. Read the rest of this entry here.

**Billy played for the Cincinnati Steam last summer. He hit .320 in 100 at-bats for them.

Bulls Sign Central Missouri Catcher

The Sikeston Bulls of the KIT League will be counting on Eric Cole to handle a good portion of their catching duties this summer. Eric is a 6-2/225 pound sophomore from Lee's Summit, MO. He is currently hitting .222 in 18 at-bats for the University of Central Missouri. He's hit 1 double, 1 homer and has drive in 4 this season. The Sikeston Bulls open their 09 summer season on Friday, May 29th.

Former HiToms Star Poythress Grabs National Honors

From Summer Ball News Source

ATHENS, GA. - Former Thomasville HiTom and Georgia junior first baseman Rich Poythress was named the SEC Player of the Week and a Louisville Slugger National Player of the Week after leading the top-ranked Bulldogs to a series sweep over SEC rival Tennessee.

Poythress hit .615 (8-for-13) with five home runs and 12 RBIs in four games last week. In Tuesday's game against Wright State, he hit a two-run home run in the first inning, then had his first career multi-home run game along with two doubles and two walks for a career-high 12 total bases against Tennessee on Friday. He followed that with another two-home run game on Saturday and tied his career high with five RBIs. In his first nine plate appearances against the Vols, Poythress was 6-for-6 with four home runs, two doubles and three walks.

He is one of four players selected as a Louisville Slugger National Player of the Week. Furthermore, the Grovetown, Ga., native is now ranked in the top three in the SEC in nine offensive categories including first in batting average (.447), on-base percentage (.556) and RBIs (47); second in slugging percentage (.936), runs (37), home runs (13) and total bases (88); and third in hits (42) and walks (22).

Poythress is currently eighth all-time at UGA with a .357 career batting average. His 31 career home runs is one shy of 10th all-time at UGA, his 146 RBIs is four shy of 10th, and his 38 career doubles is nine shy of 10th all-time at Georgia.

Spending the 2007 summer season in the Coastal Plain League, Poythress was a staple in the HiToms lineup, and finished among the offensive leaders with a .324 average. In 52 games started, he racked up 60 hits, including 13 doubles, a triple and 13 home runs, while also scoring 48 runs and driving in 49 RBIs. Furthermore, he tallied 114 total bases, a .616 slugging percentage, a .450 on-base percentage and was walked 42 times. His numbers in RBIs, total bases, slugging percentage, and walks were all league-bests in 2007.

Poythress was honored as a CPL Rawlings Hitter of the Week in week two of the season, and went on to make the Coastal Plain League All-Star Game, where he played third base for the National CPL All-Star squad. He later helped Thomasville win its second straight Petitt Cup Championship.

The HiToms are a member of the Coastal Plain League, the nation's hottest summer collegiate baseball league. Celebrating its 13th season, the Coastal Plain League features 14 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. The CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with the use of wooden bats. Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both players and hosts. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league Web site at www.coastalplain.com.

Silversmiths Add Three More for 2009

From Summer Ball News Source
March 30, 2009 The Silversmiths are pleased to announce three more additions for their first season.

Sam Politan is a 6'1" 210 pound, freshman firstbaseman at tradional NCAA Divison III power Montclair State University.

Pat O'Brien is a 6' 170 pound, freshman outfielder/right handed pitcher at local NJCAA power Mohawk Valley Community College.

DJ Pastuf is a 5'8" 165 pound, freshman infielder who also plays for local NJCAA power Mohawk Valley Community College.

The Silversmiths are sure that all three will be solid additions to the team.

CATS SIGN FOUR PITCHERS

From Summer Ball News Source
The Border Cats pitching staff is beginning to take shape for the 2009 season. Joining the Cats on the mound are lefthander Tyler Powell and righthanders Christian Dekker, Matthew Singer, and Drew Erwin.

Powell, a 6'3, 185 pound southpaw is in his sophomore season at North Carolina's Belmont Abbey College, where he is a teammate of former Border Cats pitcher Michael Raymond. The native of Port Orange, FL has appeared in eight games with the Crusaders during the 2009 season, going 3-2 with a 3.72 earned run average. Powell has made seven starts and has one complete game.

Dekker is a 6'6, 215 pounder from Urbandale, IA. He is currently a junior at Northwest Missouri State, where he is 1-3 in seven games this season with a 5.50 ERA. Singer has worked out of the bullpen during his collegiate career at Seton Hall University in New Jersey. The 6'0, 195 pound reliever from Bayenne, NJ is 2-1 in 11 games this season. In 2008, Singer had a 4-0 record with four saves and a 3.12earned run average.

Erwin, a 6'1, 190 pounder is a sophomore at Nicholls State University in Louisiana. In 10 games this season, the native of Alvin, TX is 1-1 with a 4.66 earned run average.

CREIGHTON FRESHMAN SIGNS WITH BUCKS

From Summer Ball News Source
The Waterloo Bucks, a member of the Northwoods League, announced today the signing of Creighton infielder Zane Hinkel. The 6'2", 180-pound freshman joins fellow Blue Jays Bob Lackovic and C.J. Rose on the Bucks 2009 summer roster.

A 2008 graduate of Creighton Prep High School, Hinkel was regarded as one of the most prolific hitters in the state of Nebraska in 2008. As a senior, Hinkel led all Class-A with a .547 average and was second with 52 hits, and rated third with 42 runs scored.

Bucks skipper Pete Lauritson knows the potential a player like Hinkel has.

"Zane had a tremendous prep career, leading the state of Nebraska in hitting his senior season," said Lauritson. "Zane is going to be a valuable part of our roster being used as a utility guy. He has a high ceiling and getting to see college pitching day in and day out this summer will ready him to be a quality player in the Missouri Valley Conference."

Hinkel's senior season at Creighton Prep earned him school records in batting average (.547) and runs scored (42). The Omaha, Nebraska native was also named first-team All-Nebraska by the Omaha World-Herald, first-team Super State by the Lincoln Star Journal, and first-team All-Conference and All-State.

The Bucks will begin their 15th season of action on May 28 as they open the 2009 season on the road versus the Green Bay Bullfrogs. The home opener at historic Riverfront Stadium will take place on May 30 when they play host to the Duluth Huskies. Stay in touch with the Bucks in the off-season by utilizing their website at www.waterloobucks.com.

Son of 1984 NL All-Star Signs with 'Chucks

From Summer Ball News Source
WAUSAU, WI – March 30th, 2009 – Michael Marshall, son of former Major Leaguer Mike Marshall, has signed to play with the Wisconsin Woodchucks this summer. Marshall, a sophomore pitcher for Stanford University, will be playing in Wausau along with his current teammate Chris Reed, a left-handed pitcher for the Cardinal.

Marshall (6’3”, 240 lbs) is off to a solid start for the Stanford Cardinal this spring. He is one of their top relief pitchers with a 4.32 ERA in 12.1 innings pitched. The right-handed hurling Marshall has displayed great control so far with a strikeout to walk ratio of 11:1. His father Mike played 11 seasons in the Majors with the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, and California Angels. The elder Marshall was a National League All-Star in 1984 and a World Series Champion with the Dodgers in 1981 and 1988.

Marshall, a native of El Paso, Texas, may also play some first base for the ‘Chucks this summer. GoStanford.com notes that Marshall is “a very good hitter, who provides a power bat from the right side.” While playing for the Woodstock River Bandits of the Valley Baseball League last summer, he hit .301 with four home runs in 22 games. He was also dominant on the mound for the River Bandits striking out 45 and walking only four in 25.2 innings.

Reed (6’4”, 190 lbs) has already seen action on the mound with Stanford this spring as a true freshman. The Stanford website had this to say about the southpaw from Reseda, California: “possesses a good breaking ball and changeup… also boasts an above-average fastball.” He graduated high school with a 4.2 GPA while earning the U.S. Army National Scholar Athlete Award in 2008.

The Wisconsin Woodchucks are a member of the Northwoods League, a college wood bat summer league featuring players from across the country. Baseball America named the Northwoods League as one of the premier summer collegiate baseball leagues in the country. The Woodchucks 2009 home opener is Friday, May 29th as they take on the Eau Claire Express. For group outing / ticket information contact the Woodchucks office at 715-845-5055 or visit the Woodchucks website at www.woodchucks.com.

Beatty Brings Big Bat Back to HiToms

From Summer Ball News Source
THOMASVILLE, N.C. - C.J. Beatty, a 5-10, 185-pound outfielder, will be hitting balls near National Highway at Finch Field again this summer. Beatty, a junior for the North Carolina A&T Aggies, is from Winston-Salem, N.C., and has signed with the Thomasville HiToms for the 2009 summer season.

In 2008, Beatty started 52 games for the HiToms while compiling a .505 slugging percentage, paired with his .304 batting average, first and third on the team respectively. He racked up 44 RBIs, 34 runs, 12 doubles, and nine home runs, while leading the team with 98 total bases. Beatty also had an impeccable defensive record finishing the season with a 1.000 fielding percentage without committing an error.

Beatty is off to a blistering pace for the Aggies this season with a batting average of .344, while maintaining a .639 slugging percentage with three homeruns, seven doubles, 12 RBIs, and 15 runs.

"Playing for the HiToms is unbelievable. I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world," Beatty said. "Playing just down the road from where I grew up is a great opportunity for me and my family."

The HiToms are a member of the Coastal Plain League, the nation's hottest summer collegiate baseball league. Celebrating its 13th season, the Coastal Plain League features 14 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. The CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with the use of wooden bats. Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both players and hosts. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league Web site at www.coastalplain.com.

Goebbert Named Big Ten Player of the Week

From Summer Ball News Source
EVANSTON, Ill. - Northwestern junior outfielder Jake Goebbert (Hampshire, Ill./Hampshire) has been named the Big Ten Baseball Player of the Week the conference office announced Monday. It is the fourth such honor of his career after earning the distinction twice as a freshman and once as a sophomore. Read the rest of this entry here.

**Jake played for the Southern Ohio Copperheads last summer.

Rigo Earns Co-MAC East Pitcher of the Week Accolades

From Summer Ball News Source
CLEVELAND - For the third-straight week, a Bobcat has garnered Mid-American Conference weekly honors, as Ohio senior right-hander Chris Rigo was named co-MAC East Pitcher of the Week, the league office announced Monday. Sophomore Gauntlett Eldemire (Shaker Heights, Ohio) was named MAC East Player of the Week last week and junior Marc Krauss (Deshler, Ohio) earned the award two weeks ago. Read the rest of this entry here.

**Chris played for the Winchester Royals last summer.

SoCon Announces Weekly Baseball Awards

From Summer Ball News Source
(photo is courtesy of SOCon Athletics)

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – College of Charleston sophomore third baseman Cole Rakar and Elon junior catcher Mike Melillo have been named the Southern Conference’s Baseball Co-Players of the Week for all games from March 23-29. The Citadel’s Drew Mahaffey has been named the league’s Pitcher of the Week. Read the rest of this entry here.

McDonnell Swinging Hot Bat For Wofford College

Wofford College outfielder, Michael McDonnell is off to quite a year this season. He is currently .362/638/.524 in 47 at-bats this season. He's driven in and scored 14 runs this year. Michael has hit 3 homers and has a bb/k ratio of 15/18 this year. Michael McDonnell will be playing for the Peekskill Robins of the ACBL this summer.

Mavericks Sign Georgia Southern Infielder

The Clermont Mavericks of the Florida Collegiate Summer League have recently signed Chris Jones from Georgia Southern University. Chris is a 5-10/160 pound infielder originally from Lithonia, GA. So far this season, he's had 4 hits in 6 at-bats this season. He's hit 1 homer and has driven in 5 this season.

Lynchburg Baseball Stays Undefeated in ODAC with Twinbill Sweep of Eastern Mennonite Sunday

From Summer Ball News Source
LYNCHBURG, VA - The Lynchburg College baseball team upped its conference record to 6-0 with a doubleheader sweep of Eastern Mennonite University Sunday in Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) play from City Stadium.

In game one, the Hornets outlasted the Royals to earn a 5-3 win. EMU struck first in the top of the third, scoring a single run on a RBI double from Chris Harpine. Lynchburg answered with single runs in the bottom of the third and fourth, before scoring a pair of tallies in the fifth frame to take the lead for good. Read the rest of this entry here.

**Both Jeff Taylor and Cameron Grant had two hits in the 2nd game of the DH sweep. They will both be playing for the Martinsville Mustangs this summer.

Casario, Gonzales, and Artichoke Heroics Highlight Week

From Summer Ball News Source
At long last, in less than one week, the 2009 major league season will be underway. The defending champion Philadelphia Phillies kick off their title defense against the Atlanta Braves on Sunday night.

But in the college ranks have been in full swing for nearly two months now. Last year’s Pump Jacks continue to make names for themselves, and those announced for this year’s squad surely are giving cause for optimism.

Recently announced lefthander Abel Gonzales was a star out of the bullpen for Rice this past week. He appeared in three of the Owls’ four games, helping Rice to a 3-1 record. In games against Lamar and Memphis, Gonzales allowed just two hits in 4.1 shutout innings. For the season, the short relief specialist is 1-0 with a scintillating 0.87 ERA, and he’s held opponents to a .184 average.

Matthew Reckling continues to garner support from the Rice coaching staff, as sure a barometer of his promise as there could be. The true freshman was selected to make a weekend start in conference play when he took the hill yesterday against Memphis. Reckling earned his first collegiate victory, giving up three runs in 5.1 innings. He allowed four hits, walked two, and struck out three.

In College Park, Md., A.J. Casario continued to lead the Maryland offense last week. Casario upped his hitting streak to a team-high 13 games before it was snapped over the weekend by Florida State, though he got a measure of revenge with his fourth homer of the season in Sunday's series finale. For the week, Casario batted .294 (5-for-17), but with three doubles and a homer, his slugging percentage was boosted to .647.

On the season, Casario leads the Terps with a .337 average, seven doubles, 51 total bases, and 23 runs, and he’s second on the team with four homers and 17 RBI.

Ben Taylor and his Scottsdale Community College squad proved last week that they certainly know how to keep things interesting. The Artichokes swept a mid-week doubleheader against Pima Community College by taking both games in their final at-bat.

The Fighting 'Chokes are now 23-13 on the season. With a 12-10 record in the conference, SCC is locked in a tie for fourth place in the 14-team circuit.

Closer to home, Stan Phelps and UT-Tyler are on the rise. The Patriots, who are now ranked #3 in the nation by both D3Baseball.com and Collegiate Baseball, rolled to a 3-0 record last week. Paige Hodges posted a hit in all three wins, and he drove in runs in two contests. Hodges is now batting .356 on the season.

Adam De La Garza has picked up more playing time for Sam Houston State, and for good reason. The sparkplug for Pump Jacks during their inaugural season batted .462 (6-for-13) last week with two doubles, two RBI, and four runs. De La Garza has now upped his season average to .323.

The Bearkats limped to a 1-3 record last week, but the win – an extra-inning victory in the nightcap of Saturday’s doubleheader against Northwestern State – had Pump Jacks fingerprints all over it. Matt Shelton delivered three scoreless innings as the game was extended into extra frames, allowing two hits and a walk. After Northwestern State picked up the lead in the top of the 11th inning, De La Garza was hit by a pitch and came around to score the tying run in the home half of the frame.

The outing improved Shelton’s ERA to 1.86, the best on Sam Houston’s staff by nearly two-and-a-half runs. The Mansfield native also leads the team in wins with a 4-0 record and one save.

In Carthage, Aaron Wilkerson has improved to 6-0 with a save for Panola College. Wilkerson not only leads the Ponies in wins and ERA (2.29), but his 53 strikeouts are as many as the second third highest totals combined. The #10 prospect in the TCL last season has signed to continue his career with the University of Arkansas, ranked in the top ten this season by both Collegiate Baseball and USA Today.

Free Season Tickets: That’s right, free! With players this season coming to East Texas from across the country, the team is actively searching for host families. Host families enjoy the opportunity to have a potential future major leaguer live with them, forging a bond that lasts a lifetime. As an added bonus, host families receive FREE season tickets for everyone in their household. Click here or contact the Pump Jacks for more information.

The 2009 season is scheduled to begin on Friday, June 5, when the Pump Jacks host the league’s newest team, the Victoria Generals. The 48-game regular season will run through August 8, to be followed by the playoffs and TCL Championship Series. Fans can download a copy of the team’s schedule by clicking here.

Season tickets are currently on sale, with ticket packages starting as low as $105 – and $85 for children and seniors – for all 24 regular season home games. Box seat season tickets are also available, including Lower Box seats, which feature in-your-seat wait service all game long, every game. For more information on Pump Jacks season tickets, click here or contact the Jacks office at (903) 218-GO ET.

WT Takes Nightcap From Tarleton State, 8-7

From Summer Ball News Source
AMARILLO, Texas - The Buffs of West Texas A&M used a Tyson Hickman walkoff fielder's choice with the bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth inning to defeat the Texans of Tarleton State, 8-7, in front of 65 fans at the Dilla Villa in game two of a doubleheader. The Buffs improve to 16-20 overall with a 9-17 record in the Lone Star Conference.

"That was a huge win for our guys" said WT head coach Matt Vanderburg "It feels so nice to be on the winning end of a close game like that. Our players did a great job of staying in the game, especially when we were down by one going into the bottom of the ninth."

The Buffs tied the game up in the home half of the first inning as Brad Elders (SO, Amarillo, Texas) scored on a balk by the Tarleton starter to tie the game at 1-1. WT took their first lead of the game in the second, as Heath Baker (JR, Highland Village, Texas) singled home teammates Steve Decker (JR, Colorado Springs, Colorado) and Joe Inzone (JR, Spring Valley, California) to take the 4-1 lead.

The two teams traded runs back and forth throughout the rest of the game, as Tarleton took a 7-6 lead into the home half of the ninth inning. Rob Mann (JR, Duncanville, Texas) leadoff the inning with a double to center field, followed by a Kevin Els (SR, Cypress, Texas) sacrifice lineout to left field to score pinch-runner Jake Parsons (JR, Amarillo, Texas) to tie the game at 7-7.

Tyson Hickman (JR, Pampa, Texas) stepped up to the plate later in the inning with the bases loaded and one out, and grounded into a fielders choice to score teammate Coty Wilson (SR, China Spring, Texas) to give the Buffs the game two victory, 8-7.

"Rob (Mann) had a huge hit to leadoff the inning, the ball barely stayed in the park" said Vanderburg "That really sparked our guys to pull out the big win to take the first two games of the series."

Brandon Hickey (SR, Odessa, Texas) picked up the win on the mound (5-3) for the Buffs, giving up no runs on two hits in one full inning of work.

The Buffs and Texans hit the diamond on Monday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. to conclude the team's Lone Star Conference weekend series in doubleheader action at the Dilla Villa.

SwampDogs Sign Hornet Pitcher to Roster

From Summer Ball News Source
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - The Fayetteville SwampDogs have announced the signing of Ben Graham, a junior right-handed pitcher out of Emporia State University (KS).

Graham, a 6-4, 195-pound junior spent the last two years playing for the Hutchinson C.C. Blue Dragons in Hutchinson, Kansas, before transferring to ESU. So far in his 2009 campaign, Graham leads the Hornets in wins, earned run average, innings pitched and strikeouts. The young right-hander has gone 2-1 with a 2.88 ERA in 32 innings pitched and 25 strikeouts compared to only four walks. In the four games Graham has started this year, two of them have been complete games.

"Ben should be the next in a long line of quality players to don the Dogs' pinstripes," said head coach Darrell Handelsman. "I expect him to be a big part of our rotation this summer. He is a strike throwing machine and a true "bulldog" on the mound."

The Fayetteville SwampDogs are a member of the Coastal Plain League, the nation's hottest summer collegiate baseball league. Celebrating its 13th season, the Coastal Plain League features 14 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. The CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with the use of wooden bats. Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both players and hosts. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league Web site at www.coastalplain.com. To reserve your tickets today, contact the Fayetteville SwampDogs at (910) 426-5900. For more information on the team, log onto goswampdogs.com.

Seven Run Eighth Inning by NC Wesleyan Dooms LC Baseball Friday

From Summer Ball News Source
LYNCHBURG, VA - The North Carolina Wesleyan College Battling Bishops scored seven runs in the top of the eighth, taking the lead for good as the Hornets of Lynchburg College fell 7-4 Friday afternoon in non-conference baseball play from Fox Field in miserable, rainy conditions.

Lynchburg (14-8) led 3-0 going into the frame, but seven unearned, two out runs by the Battling Bishops proved to be too much to LC. Daniel Moore had a two-run single for NCWC(15-11) in the inning, while Kyle Williford also doubled in a pair of runs.

Lynchburg posted single runs in the second, third and sixth innings to give itself a 3-0 lead going into the eighth stanza. In the second, Ryan Litz (Forest, VA/Jefferson Forest) singled in a run, and later on LC got runs thanks to a wild pitch and a NC Wesleyan fielding error.

Lynchburg starter Michael Straub (Falls Church, VA/George Mason) went five innings, scattering seven hits while fanning seven Bishop hitters. Sophomore infielder Jordan Watkins (Freeland, MD/Hereford) extended his hitting streak to nine with a four-for-four, two run afternoon.

Juniors Jeff Taylor (Lynchburg, VA/Heritage) and Cameron Grant (Lynchburg, VA/Heritage) each had two hits for the Hornets, who left 12 runners on base for the afternoon. NC Wesleyan was paced by Justin Batts, who finished three-for five with a RBI on the day. Justin Tuck was two-for-four, while Moore finished with two hits and two knocked in.

Jon Shearon got the win for the Bishops, as he went seven innings allowing two earned runs and nine hits.

Saturday's conference doubleheader with Eastern Mennonite University has already been postponed until Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. on Fox Field.

My Stephen Strasburg Adventure!

I have heard nothing but great things about Stephen Strasburg. Is he the best college pitcher ever? Will he be the number 1 overall pick next season? Why, why, why did he already align himself with the baseball Anti-Christ (ie...Scott Boras).

The San Diego State Aztecs are in town to play TCU this weekend. Naturally, Strasburg is their Friday starter. I knew that Lupton Stadium will probably be packed, so thanks to some connections, I was able to secure a ticket to yesterday's game. But, work got in the way a bit. I wasn't able to leave as early as I wanted, and dreadful traffic on 35 W, put me way late. I arrived just in time to see Strasburg strike out the side in the 3rd inning.

My opinion of Strasburg? He is the best collegiate pitcher I've ever seen. On a frigid, windy night, my radar gun had him routinely in the high 90's. His slider was extremely effective as well. Overall, he had a brilliant outing. He allowed 2 runs on 3 hits in 8 innings of work. He walked just 1 and fanned a remarkable 14 Horned Frogs. It was simply a dominant outing.

Ohio U Phenom Signs With the Copperheads

One of the nation's premier outfielders will be playing for the Southern Ohio Copperheads of the Great Lakes League this summer. Marc Krauss is a junior from the University of Ohio by way of Deshler, OK. Marc played for the Harwich Mariners and Bourne Braves last summer. He hit .353 in 116 at-bats. He hit 3 homers and drove in 31 runs last summer. He was named the 27th best prospect in the Cape Cod League by Baseball America.

Marc is currently hitting a staggering .446/.784/.544 in 74 at-bats this year. He has hit 7 homers, scored 20 runs and has driven in 24 runners this season. He also has a very nice bb/k ratio of 14/8 this year.

NO HITTER!!! WHEELER FANS 10 IN BASEBALL'S 4-0 WIN OVER HAWAI'I

From Summer Ball News Source
HONOLULU, Hawai’i – In a game that started after most fans on the East Coast were asleep, Coastal Carolina University sophomore Cody Wheeler (Spotsylvania, Va./Spotsylvania) made history by throwing a no-hitter in the Chanticleers (19-4) 4-0 win over Hawai’i (13-9) March 26 in the opening game of a four-game series in Honolulu, O’ahu. Read the rest of this entry here.

**Cody will be playing for the Bourne Braves this summer.

Bellevue (Neb.) University's Mike Evans records 900th career victory

From Summer Ball News Source
OMAHA, Neb. - Bellevue University head coach Mike Evans reached a milestone on Thursday night, 900 career victories following a 12-3 victory over Dakota State University at Esping Family Field. "When you're as old as me, you accomplish some things" said Coach Evans. "It's nice to be around a program where the kids expect to win," picking up their sixth straight victory. Bellevue has gone to the NAIA World Series 12 of the last 14 years winning it all in 1995. Read the rest of this entry here.

Outfielder Nichols Back with Bombers

From Summer Ball News Source
The Dubois County Bombers of the Prospect League (formerly the CICL) have
announced that outfielder Daniel Nichols will return for his second season
with the team this summer. Nichols, a Newburgh, Ind. native, started 42
games for the Bombers a year ago. He had 12 RBI and scored 17 runs.

Nichols is batting .392 in 23 games this season at Wabash Valley College in
Mt. Carmel, Ill. The 6-foot, 185-pound sophomore leads the Warriors with 29
RBI. He also has 31 hits, tied for the team lead. Nichols batted .371 with a
team-high six homeruns as a freshman.

“We’re very excited that Daniel Nichols will be with us again this summer,”
said Assistant General Manager Jace Gonnerman. “As one of our returning
players from last year’s club, we expect him to be a leader on and off the
field and help our new players with the transition to the Prospect League.
He’ll be counted on to have another strong season for us. With Daniel and
the four other outfielders already on the roster, we may have the most
talented group of outfielders in the league.”

Delta State to honor former coach Bill Marchant Saturday

From Summer Ball News Source
CLEVELAND – The Delta State University baseball program will honor former head coach Bill Marchant with the retiring of his jersey, number 22, SATURDAY, March 28, at 2:40 p.m., prior to the start of the Statesmen’s matchup against Harding University as part of the 2009 Spring Sports Weekend.

“This is a most deserved honor for coach Marchant,” stated Statesmen head coach Mike Kinnison. “Bill (Marchant) was one of the most successful coaches in the country during his time here at DSU. When he retired in 1996, he devoted his time to teaching and directing our Athletic Alumni efforts. I am proud I was a member of his staff and it brings me great pleasure to be able to honor him this weekend in such a permanent way.”

Between the lines, Marchant was no stranger to success. The man tapped in 1989 to replace legendary coach Dave “Boo” Ferriss won 283 baseball games between 1989 and 1996, while losing just 127. He guided the Statesmen to five NCAA regional tournaments and made two trips to the NCAA Division II College World Series. His teams also claimed three Gulf South Conference Championships under his leadership and for his accomplishments on the diamond, Marchant earned a South Central Region Coach of the Year honor.

Since his retirement after the 1996 season, Marchant has worked tirelessly as an instructor in the physical education department at Delta State, and as the director of the DSU Athletic Alumni Association.
Coach Marchant joins a very select list of Statesmen baseball greats to have their jersey retired. Coach Dave “Boo” Ferriss, who wore No. 33, coached the Statesmen from 1960-1966 and 1970-1988 to the most victories in school history, and former standout Bryan Rodgers, who wore No. 23 from 1974-77,are the only other Statesmen to receive the honor.

Saturday’s event is open to the public and all Statesmen baseball fans are encouraged to show up to the park early for the ceremony at 2:40 p.m.

Trojans Sign Longshore of Alabama

From Summer Ball News Source
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Trevecca head baseball coach Jonathan Burton has signed Caleb Longshore of Alabama. Longshore, who prepped at Cleveland (Ala.) High School, is a standout hurler for Jefferson State Community College in Montgomery, Ala.

Coach Burton says, "Caleb is another great arm we have signed early in the recruiting process for next year. He commands the zone with three pitches and really does a good job with location and keeps the ball down in the zone."

"Our focus has been to sign several arms for the 2009-2010 season. Caleb is another that will provide an immediate impact to a JUCO filled staff next year. Caleb's potential at Trevecca makes causes us to have even more excitement about the season to come."

In 2008 at Jefferson State (Stats) he posted a 8-2 record with two saves. The then freshman had a 3.63 earned run average. The 6'2" pitcher had 39 strike outs in 62 innings pitched last season. Longshore appeared in 17 games and started six with two complete games last season.

Two of his current teammates have signed to play for the Trojans next season. Fellow hurler B.J. Boston and infielder Greg Casebier will join Longshore at Trevecca next fall.

REFURBISHING RIVERFRONT

From Summer Ball News Source
During the summer of 2008 the Waterloo Bucks and historic Riverfront Stadium were acutely affected by flooding. Floodwaters damaged or destroyed many points of Riverfront including offices, concessions stands, restrooms, locker rooms, souvenir stand, ticket windows, storage areas, and party deck, and totally covered the playing field. In fact, the water level was about eight feet above the ground at every concessions stand window.

The flooding removed the Bucks from playing at their home field during the bulk of June and early part of July (16 home games in 33 days). To say the least, the 2008 season was won by Mother Nature.

The City of Waterloo has been working diligently to get Riverfront back to where it was pre-flood and continue to make improvements on the ballpark. Check back each Thursday for continuing progress reports from officials from the City of Waterloo and the Bucks.

The Black Hawk County Gaming Association board pledged 590,000 dollars toward improvements at Riverfront Stadium over the next year.

The board voted unanimously with one abstention Monday, November 17 to contribute to a locker room improvement plan with four payments through next year.

Waterloo Mayor Tim Hurley called the city-owned stadium a "tarnished gem" after June flooding this year damaged the locker room facilities.

Hurley and Paul Huting, Waterloo Leisure Services Director, said the project would be a "building within a building" and assured the board that their investment won't be washed away in another flood.

Wiring will be installed through the ceiling and other designs will prevent total loss from flooding, he added.

"It will be flexible and it will be something we won't have to tear out," Huting said.

The money will be disbursed over four fiscal quarters. The board distributes 5.75 percent of the Isle Casino and Hotel at Waterloo adjusted gross receipts to capital projects, nonprofit organizations and charities.

The board approved 100,000 dollars to the stadium project this quarter, 100,000 dollars in the third fiscal quarter, 200,000 dollars for the final quarter of fiscal year 2009 and 90,000 dollars for the first fiscal quarter of 2010.

Work on the project will begin in January and be completed at the end of next year, Huting said.

"We will in all likelihood start the season without a locker room which isn't all that terrible because teams refuse to go in them right now," Hurley said.

Board members discussed funding a city-owned facility, but noted that the University of Northern Iowa baseball team uses the ballpark and the Northwoods League Waterloo Bucks draw people from the region.

"It's an asset to the entire Cedar Valley," Hurley said.

The 590,000 dollars pledge is in addition to 190,000 dollars the BHCGA gave toward field improvements at the ballpark. Flooding changed the city's priorities, Hurley said.

Express Add Pair of Freshmen

From Summer Ball News Source
Eau Claire, Wis. – March 25, 2009 – Eau Claire Express field manager Dale Varsho announced today the addition of freshman pitchers Rudy Jaramillo and Louis Head to his 2009 roster. The two most recent commitments bring the Express roster to 16.

Jaramillo is a 6-foot, 170-pound left-hander from New Mexico. He helped lead the Marcos de Niza Padres to the Arizona 5A-II Championship as a junior in 2007 and received all-state honorable mention honors as a senior. The Chandler, AZ native has a 2-0 record in eight appearances covering 11 innings pitched this spring for the Lobos. Jaramillo is the second New Mexico player to commit to the Express this year, joining teammate Rafael Neda.

Head is a 6-foot, 170-pound right-hander from Texas Tech. He earned all-district honors as both a sophomore and junior at Cinco Ranch High School after registering a 10-5 record and 2.01 earned run average in those two seasons. Head sees Eau Claire and the Northwoods League as a good place to advance his career.

“I chose to play in Eau Claire because I heard it is a great atmosphere for baseball. I look forward to playing in the Northwoods League because it is known as one of the top summer leagues in the country and I will be playing against a lot of talented players.”

In six appearances (one start) for the Red Raiders, Head has a record of 0-2 with a 7.31 ERA in 16 innings pitched.

The Express begin their fifth season of play at home on May 28 versus the Wisconsin Woodchucks, with first pitch scheduled for 6:35 P.M.

Beetles Coaching Staff Complete

From Summer Ball News Source
The 2009 season will mark Coach Chisholm’s first season with the Mighty Oak baseball team at Oakland City University in southern Indiana. Coach Chisholm, a Pittsburgh native, and Duquesne University graduate, joins the Mighty Oaks staff as an assistant coach, responsible for the pitching staff, conditioning, and will assist Coach Fletcher in recruitment of future Mighty Oaks.

In 2006, he completed his four-year career pitching at Duquesne University. Chisholm appeared in 48 games for the Dukes, starting 33 during his career, earning twelve victories on the mound. Chisholm was second on the Dukes in strikeouts in both his sophomore and junior campaigns and led Duquesne in strikeouts in 2006, averaging 57 whiffs over his last three seasons. Chisholm logged the second most innings for Duquesne in 2004 and 2005 and led the staff with 80 innings his senior season. His post-season victory over Fordham in 2005 was the first postseason win in Duquesne history.

After graduation, Coach Chisholm inherited the Seton Hill pitching staff that ranked third in the AMC in ERA and first in innings pitched and strikeouts in 2006. In his two seasons as pitching coach at Division II Seton Hill, he led a young staff to some of the best numbers in school history. Under his direction, the Griffins posted school bests in strikeouts, fewest walks allowed, ERA, and opponents’ batting average between 2007-2008. In 2008, four Griffin pitchers were awarded with WVIAC pitcher of the week honors. Chisholm also played a key role in the recruiting, compliance, & strength and conditioning of the baseball program.

He earned his Masters Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Management in July 2008. In addition to his baseball obligations, Chisholm serves as an instructor and advisor in the business department. He teaches courses in finance, statistics, and international business.

Colby Betz's Domination of Mercyhurst Earns Him PSAC West Pitcher of the Week Accolades

From Summer Ball News Source
IUP junior righthander Colby Betz has been selected the PSAC West Pitcher of the Week after a dominating performance in a 1-0, eight-inning win over Mercyhurst in the first game of a doubleheader Saturday at Owen Dougherty Field.

Betz gave up only three hits, struck out five and did not walk a batter in shutting down a Laker team that had been averaging almost nine runs per game entering the contest. He retired 11 in a row at one stretch and only one Mercyhurst base runner advanced past second. Read the rest of this entry here.

**Colby will be pitching for the Lehigh Valley Catz of the ACBL this summer.

Buletza Heading Back To Quakertown

Cory Buletza (Kutztown) will be heading back to Qaukertown for his 2nd stint with the Blazers this summer. Cory is a 6-1/190 pound cf from Kutztown University. Last summer, he hit .216 in 111 at-bats for the Blazers. He hit 3 doubles and stole 5 bases as well. Cory is currently hitt .348/.461/.385 in 89 at-bats this year. He's scored 20 runs, driven in 11 and has hit 5 doubles. He has also stolen 11 bases this year.

Extra-Innings Winnings

From Summer Ball News Source
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. -- Less than24 hours after rallying for a wild 19-18 win in 10 innings at home over The Master’s, the NAIA’s No. 6-ranked Azusa Pacific went on the road for another come-from-behind win in 10 innings with an 8-5 victory over the No. 18-ranked Mustangs Thursday afternoon. Read the rest of this entry here.

**Drew Evans (AP) played for the Mckinney Marshals of the TCL last summer.

Huebner Ties School-Record With 13th Career Save As Wagner Defeats Lafayette 5-3

From Summer Ball News Source
Staten Island, NY – Senior RHP Andrew Huebner (Hatfield, PA / North Penn) notched his school-record tying 13th career save with a 1-2-3 ninth as Wagner defeated Lafayette 5-3 in non-conference action at Richmond County Bank Ballpark in the Seahawks’ home-opener. Huebner, who set the Wagner single-season record with 11 a year ago, tied former pitcher Chris Pariseau, who notched 13 from 1996-2000. Read the rest of this entry here.

**Andrew Huebner played for the Quakertown Blazers last summer.

5 Questions With Boone Whiting

It is my pleasure to introduce you to Boone Whiting. Fans of Centenary College baseball are very familiar with one of the best and underrated pitchers in all of college baseball. Boone is a sophomore pitcher from Centenary College by way of Oakdale, CA. Last year he went 2-1, with a 1.53 era in 53 innings of work. He surrendered 42 hits and had a bb/k ratio of 17-41. He culminated 2008 by being named to the Louisville Slugger Freshman All-American Team, the Summit League First Team All-Conference Team, and the PING! Baseball Freshman All-American Team.

Boone is currently on pace to have another outstanding year this season. He is 2-0, with a 1.96 era in 23 innings of work. He's given up 21 hits and has a bb/k ratio of 6/31 this season. Boone has informed us that he will be pitching for the Santa Barbara Foresters this summer. He also agreed to answer 5 questions for us.

Summer Ball--Who was your favorite baseball player when you were younger?

Boone Whiting--I grew up watching Greg Maddux as a kid and my Dad always emphasized pitching using strategy rather than power. I never fully obtained a fastball that I could blow by hitters until my senior year in high school. I have always tried to make sure I hit my spots and keep batters off balance rather than just throwing a fastball as hard as I could to try to get outs. I can use a plus fastball as an out pitch if I need to but well placed fastball have been the key for my success.

SB--In your opinion, who is the toughest batter you've ever had to face?

BW--I try to be as humble as I can but when it comes to hitters, I have never faced a guy I did not think I could out pitch. The Razorbacks and Aggies have some of the best hitters in division 1 baseball, but when I get on the mound I don't see any difference. They are all human and if I throw my pitches where I want to, I will be successful. The only hitters I consider better than others are the ones who don't miss mistakes.

SB--Who has been the biggest influence on you in terms of baseball?

BW--This question is always the hardest one for me to answer because who can say what you learned from one person is more influential or more important than someone else? My Dad has taught me more than anyone else and has always supported me. My pitching coach in high school has also taught me a lot of valuable aspects of the game. There have even been coaches, like my football coach in high school, who was not really even a part of my baseball career, but he influenced me to truly commit myself to being the best I could at whatever it is I did. So I finally realized how to commit myself to baseball, which meant not playing football my senior year. But I was able to play baseball in Australia for two weeks. I believe in listening to everyone and sorting through it all and picking out what's really important to you. You never know what is going to influence your or what you will learn from someone who has credibility or not.

SB--What made you decide to play baseball for Centenary?

BW--There were a couple of reasons why I chose to come to Centenary. The most important reason was the level of education I knew I could receive. I love baseball and it has done a lot for me, especially allowing me to have a successful future in life; whether I have the opportunity to play professionally or to get my degree and become a professional in something else. I also chose Centenary because the field, "The Graveyard" as we like to call it. It is a pitchers park, 345 ft to both corners and 380 ft to center, with a 25 ft wall. Lastly, the fact that Centenary is the smallest division 1 school in the nation means that we would be the underdogs. I have always loved being underrated because when you are the underdog's, people don't just give you respect, you have to earn it.

SB--What is your favorite baseball movie?

BW--My favorite baseball move is For Love of the Game. It stars Kevin Costner as "Billy Chapel" and he throws a perfect game as a Detroit Tiger against the New York Yankees. My favorite part of the movie is when he's pitching and the crowd is heckling him and he "clears the mechanism." He blocks out everything and totally focuses on the catcher. He pitches smart and he knows his opponents. I like the overall attitude of Costner in the movie. He is old fashioned and goes about business in the right way and doesn't take any crap.

Thank you very much Boone for taking time out of your day to answer these questions for us.

Lumberjacks Sign Mount St. Mary's Catcher

The Covington Lumberjacks of the Valley Baseball League have inked Alex Andrews from Mount St. Mary's. Alex is a 6-0/185 pound sophomore from Vienna, VA. He is currently hitting .381 in 21 at-bats this year. He's driven in 3 and has smacked 1 double this season. (photo is courtesy of Mount St. Mary's Athletics)

FCSL announces 2009 schedule

From Summer Ball News Source
(photo is courtesy of Jim Hogue)

Mark your calendars now. The Florida Collegiate Summer League has released its 2009 schedule and it opens with a clash between champions from past and present during the first week in June.

As if that’s not enough to incite excitement in local fans, there is plenty of action slated to hit the baseball diamonds in Central Florida this summer.

Going head-to-head at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium to open the sixth season of the FCSL on Tuesday, June 2 at 7 p.m. are the Sanford River Rats, with former FCSL Coach of the Year Derek Wolfe leading the charge, against the 2008 FCSL Champions from Clermont.

But that’s just the start of a two-month journey which includes the annual all-star game, featuring scout day and the home run derby on Wednesday, July 15, as well as a three-game slate for the River Rats at The Villages against DeLand, Leesburg and Clermont from June 23-25.

The reigning FCSL champion Clermont Mavericks play in front of their home crowd for the first time since winning it all last August on Thursday, June 4 at 7 p.m. against Winter Park at East Ridge High School.

Yet even with that celebration scheduled to take place, the opening week of the season has several other intriguing subplots such as the renewal of the Lake County Rivalry when Clermont travels to Leesburg on Friday, June 5 at 7 p.m.

Two days earlier former Cy Young Award and World Series winner Frank Viola leads Leesburg from the dugout at Pat Thomas Stadium in the home opener for the Lightning on Wednesday, June 3 at 7 p.m. against the Winter Park Diamond Dawgs.

The Diamond Dawgs won’t play their first game of the season on their home turf at Rollins College until World Series winner and Team USA manager Davey Johnson brings the DeLand Suns to town on Saturday, June 6 at 7 p.m.

The Suns make their first visit to Sanford’s historic stadium on Wednesday, June 3 at 7 p.m. as a prelude to a highly anticipated matchup the following night. That’s when Johnson and the Suns host Viola and the Lightning in DeLand’s home opener at their new stadium at Stetson University on Thursday, June 4 at 7 p.m.

Of the 11 meetings between Johnson’s Suns and Viola’s Lightning there may be only one that is more anticipated than the first, and that’s the 4th of July matchup in Leesburg at 6 p.m. The other Independence Day game pits Winter Park at Clermont at 7 p.m.

The season concludes with the start of a best-of-three playoff series Saturday, Aug. 1 followed by the championship game at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, on Monday, Aug. 3.

Visit the FCSL Web site or click on 2009 schedule to view dates and times for the entire season.

FCSL Tickets

Because the Florida Collegiate Summer League continues to upgrade the quality of its coaches and venues each year, three of the five teams in the not-for-profit league will begin charging a minimal fee for admittance to games in 2009.

Games at Sanford, Winter Park and DeLand will remain affordable for all families as tickets will run $5 per contest in order to assist with operating expenses that reach close to $100,000 for each franchise.

Like the quality minor league entertainment that the FCSL has proven to be over the years, the league’s games remain reasonably priced for all types of sports fans.

Cost of admission in Leesburg and Clermont will remain free of charge.

Each team will play a 44-game regular season schedule with 22 matchups at home and 22 on the road.

FCSL on Facebook

Stay connected with the FCSL by joining the newly formed Florida Collegiate Summer League “page” on Facebook (www.facebook.com), where current and former players join fans to stay up-to-date on league happenings.

About Florida Collegiate Summer League

The Florida Collegiate Summer League (www.floridaleague.com) is a Wood Bat Baseball League with five teams currently in Central Florida. FCSL was founded in November 2003 to provide a place in Florida for college players to play pure wood bat baseball against top-level competition, in a festive community environment. FCSL is one of eight leagues affiliated with the National Alliance of College Summer Baseball (NACSB) - an alliance of college summer wood bat leagues which operate following NCAA legislation.

FCSL is partially financially funded by Major League Baseball (MLB). As a non-profit, 501c3 corporation, FCSL mostly depends on donations from individuals, businesses and foundations in the teams’ communities.

Diamond Hogs off to historic start

From Summer Ball News Source
It's never happened before.

The No. 14 Arkansas Razorback baseball team is off to its best start in Southeastern Conference play with sweeps over Florida and Auburn.

Arkansas head coach Dave Van Horn said the team needed to get off to a good start in SEC play if it wanted to compete for postseason titles.

And the Razorbacks (16-4, 6-0 SEC) did just that with a second sweep last weekend on the road over the Tigers. Read the rest of this entry here.

BROCKETT LEADS NEW HAVEN .....MORE HIGHLIGHTS

From Summer Ball News Source
March 25, 2009 University of New Haven freshman, Ryan Brockett(left) lead the way as the Chargers defeated Assumption College 9-2 in Northeast 10 Conference play. Brockett went 3 for 4 nailing two triples, scoring two runs and adding three RBI's in the win....Pitcher, Brandon Sleezer had a solid outing in a Utica College win versus Carleton College while the team was in Florida. Sleezer threw six innings allowing two runs on seven hits while striking out five....Siena freshman pitcher, Dan Pendleton picked up his first collegiate baseball win against Hofstra. Pendleton threw three innings and struck out two batters as the Saints won 10-4.

Cain Emerges as a Pitching Staff Leader

From Summer Ball News Source
An injury can mean a number of things for a college baseball player. It can result in the loss of playing time, a change in position or even the end of a career. For senior right-hander Nolan Cain, his injury resulted in a new role of humility and leadership.

Cain, who had Tommy John surgery to repair an injured right elbow during his freshman year in 2005, has transitioned into a respected leader, as well as a solid bullpen contributor in his four years since the surgery.

“I’ve been more of a role-player since the surgery and have been trying to become more of a leader,” Cain said. “I try to lead by example by working hard and helping the other guys and in the end helping LSU.” Read the rest of this entry here.

Manchester Silkworms Highlights

From Summer Ball News Source
Here are recent highlights from the Silkworm class of 2009.

*In the last two weeks, Grambling infielder and catcher Steve Kletke has raised his average nearly 150 points, to .371. Kletke, who is slugging .514 on the year, rapped out four hits in Grambling’s March 8th win against Texas Southern.

*Iona outfielder Andrew Passarelle had a triple and an RBI in Iona’s tough 9-6 loss to Marist on March 22nd. Marist outfielder Mike Gallic belted his third home run of the year in that game. Passarelle is still among Iona leaders with his .297 average; Gallic is carrying a gaudy .522 slugging percentage.

*After a slow start, Lipscomb third baseman Ryan Wilkins has upped his batting average 50 points over the last two weeks, to .246. Wilkins had consecutive multi-hit games and scored four runs in the Bisons’ March 20th and March 21st conference wins over Stetson.

*Notre Dame second baseman Greg Sherry had two hits and scored two runs in the Fighting Irish’s 6-5 St. Patrick’s Day (of course!) win over Ball State. Sherry has an on base percentage of .457 so far this spring.

*Wagner RHP Kyle Morrison defeated Delaware State on March 21st. He allowed just two runs in 6 innings, while fanning eight. Morrison has 26 strikeouts and just 9 walks in 21.2 innings.

*Seton Hall RHP Joe DiRocco continues his impressive 2009. DiRocco, who has a 1.87 ERA, threw seven shutout innings and scattered just four hits while getting the win on March 22nd against Notre Dame. Opponents- including national title threat North Carolina- are hitting just .236 against him. DiRocco’s Seton Hall teammate, shortstop A.J. Rusbarsky is fielding at a .962 clip and has made just four errors.

*Two Silkies played important roles in recent baseball games which resembled football scores. San Francisco catcher Travis Higgs homered against New Mexico State in the Dons’ 24-12 loss on March 20th. Two days later, UMass outfielder Mike Donato walloped five hits and four RBI in a 24-9 crushing of Richmond.

*Stony Brook teammates and right handers Jordan Purrington and Joe Goglia threw strong outings in the Seawolves recent series against LeMoyne. Goglia allowed two earned runs and four hits in 3.1 innings during his March 22nd, no decision start. Purrington threw 2.2 shutout, walk-less innings in the second game of that doubleheader.

COACHING STAFF TO RETURN FOR 2009

From Summer Ball News Source
NORTH ADAMS, MA – The North Adams SteepleCats of the 12-team New England Collegiate Baseball League are excited to announce the return of Manager Jeff Verplancke for the 2009 season. He will once again be joined in the SteepleCats’ dugout by assistant coaches Jeremiah Valenzuela and former SteepleCat and NECBL All-Star, Sean Conley.

Verplancke, will be back for his second season as Manager. In his first season as manager in 2008, the SteepleCats went 20-22, and qualified for their seventh consecutive appearance in the NECBL playoffs. Staying alive in the playoff hunt was an accomplishment considering the 'Cats lost their entire starting infielder and 1 through 4 hitters in the line-up due to injuries or illness. In the playoffs, the SteepleCats fell to the Pittsfield Dukes, two games to none. Prior to managing the SteepleCats, he served as the team’s pitching coach in 2007. That season, the SteepleCats pitching staff finished third in the NECBL in ERA, at 3.05, and first in saves, with 15. The 2007 team went 23-19, which is tied for the second best record in the SteepleCats’ 7-year history.

“It has been, all around, an enjoyable experience for me,” said Verplancke, speaking about his two previous summers in North Adams. “There were many factors that made it an easy decision to come back to North Adams,” Verplancke added. “The organization and community lend so much support for the players and coaching staff - they really make it a seamless transition away from home. Another factor was the receptiveness of the young men on last year’s team. Bringing 23 different personalities from across the nation, and getting them to mesh for a two month summer ball stint is not easy. I look forward to that challenge, with the hopes of bringing North Adams an NECBL championship.”

“We believe Jeff is the complete package and we are obviously very pleased to hear that he wanted to return. I think it says a lot about our community that a young family from California has enjoyed their summers in our community. I know we are excited that the Verplancke family will return to the Berkshires once again this summer,” said McGrath. “Jeff does a tremendous job balancing all aspects of being the Manager of the SteepleCats. Being the Manager has a lot more responsibility than just coaching the game at 7:00 each night. He has a lot to balance and juggle at once and handles it very well. >From a player’s perspective, he has instant credibility with them, which is essential in coaching summer baseball with 25 guys from all over the country."

"Having Jeff on board so early in the process this year allowed him to be a part of the recruiting process as we signed the roster. Beginning in August and September, Jeff and I spoke frequenty about possible players and in the end we were both very pleased with the talent of our roster. At this point, we are keeping an eye on all of our players and hoping they have successful seasons and that they stay healthy and academically eligible."

Verplancke brings considerable professional baseball experience to North Adams. He was drafted in the second round of the 1998 Major League Baseball draft by the Seattle Mariners, and again by the San Francisco Giants in the eleventh round of the 1999 draft. Verplancke’s professional baseball career spanned four organizations and five years, including several long stints with the Fresno Grizzlies, the Giants’ AAA affiliate.

On September 4, 2002, Verplancke was traded from the Giants organization to the Cubs organization, in exchange for Bill Meuller and $400,000. In 2003, Meuller won the American League batting title for the Boston Red Sox.

Verplancke comes from a very athletic family. His brother, Joe Verplancke, was the first college player ever drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks when he was selected in the eighth round of the 1996 draft, out of Cal State Los Angeles University. Verplancke’s cousin is PGA tour member Scott Verplank, who in 2007 won the Byron Nelson Championship.

Again in 2009, Jeremiah Valenzuela and Sean Conley will serve as assistant coaches. Valenzuela will work with the hitters and infielders. “Obviously he was very good with the kids last year,” Verplancke said about Valenzuela. “He established a very good rapport with guys and he’s definitely a guy they enjoy playing for and that they could trust and enjoy talking to.” Valenzuela is currently in his second season as an assistant coach at Sterling College in Kansas, where he graduated from in 2005.

Conley will be working with the outfielders and base runners this season, as well as coaching first base. Conley is no stranger to North Adams, having played for the SteepleCats in the summers of 2006 and 2007, and was named an NECBL All-Star in 2006. “Last year, Sean wanted to get into the coaching aspect. He didn’t really know what to expect, but was extremely eager for the opportunity to coach,” Verplancke said about Conley. “He’s a good guy to have around the guys, they really enjoyed him.” Conley is a 2008 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, where he was named to the All-Big East Second Team his senior year as an outfielder.

"Assistant coaches play a pivotal role in the success of the season, which is why I'm happy that Jeff will have his two coaches by his side. It's essential that the coaching staff be able to relate well with one another and communicate a consistent philosophy to the roster. I know our team will be prepared each night and that our players will learn a lot about playing the game of baseball the right way from each of them,” said McGrath.

“The organization is very excited to have Jeremiah and Sean return this summer. They did an outstanding job last season with the roster, especially considering we lost our entire starting infield and the first four batters in our line-up, which included two All-Stars,” said McGrath. “Everyone is very optimistic and excited for this season as we learned a lot from last year and have very high expectations for this year’s roster."

The 2009 season is right around the corner. The SteepleCats will play their home opener on Saturday, June 6 against the Danbury Westerners. Game time is 7:00 p.m. at Joe Wolfe Field, and the gates will open at 6:00 p.m. For more information on the coaching staff, roster, schedule and other news, please visit www.steeplecats.com

In case you haven't purchased your season ticket for the upcoming season, please visit one of these local businesses listed here to purchase your full season's ticket or 10-pack ticket. The Full Season Family Plan is $100; Full Season Individual Plan is $70; Ten-Pack Family Plan is $60; and the Ten-Pack Individual Plan is $45. Tickets are sold at all of the following locations: Adams: Val's Variety; North Adams: Man's World and Moulton's General Store; Stamford, VT: Billmont's Country Store, and in Williamstown at Angelina's Submarine Shop and St. Pierre's Barber Shop.