From the Coastal Plain League
It won’t be long before another season of Major League Baseball is underway, as spring training games start next week. With that said, the Coastal Plain League announced that 44 CPL alums have been invited to spring training in 2010. 37 CPL alums were invited to spring training this year. Furthermore, 23 of the 30 MLB clubs are represented with at least one alum of the CPL in camp.
The American League had 21 CPL alums while the remaining 23 came from teams in the National League. Of the 44 players in spring training, 24 of them have experience in the Majors, having made their respective debuts in prior seasons. Two of those - Landon Powell (Athletics) and Tyler Colvin (Cubs) - debuted in 2009. Also included are three alums - Kevin Youkilis (Red Sox), Justin Verlander (Tigers), Ryan Zimmerman (Nationals) - that made their respective league All-Star teams this past year, as well as Mark Reynolds (Diamondbacks) who was in the National League All-Star team Final Vote contest. The 44 alums is seven more than the 37 alums invited in 2009.
All current CPL clubs, with the exception of the expansion Morehead City Marlins, were represented with at least one alum invited to spring training. Florence led the way with eight alums, while Fayetteville and Peninsula followed with five alumni each. Edenton, Thomasville, Wilmington and Wilson tallied four a piece, and Asheboro was next with three. Meanwhile, Outer Banks and Petersburg had two alums; and Columbia, Forest City (represented by Spartanburg, which is where the team was before it relocated to Forest City in 2008), Gastonia and Martinsville rounded things out with one alum each. Former franchises Durham (two alums) and Rocky Mount (one alum) also were represented.
The complete list of CPL alums in spring training is below (alphabetically by team nickname):
American League
Brad Coon (OF) – LA Angels / Edenton ‘04
Kevin Nabors (RHP) – LA Angels / Asheboro ’06 / Fayetteville ‘07
Michael Kohn (RHP) – LA Angels / Florence ’05 / Columbia ‘06
Andrew Taylor (LHP) – LA Angels / Wilson ‘06
*Landon Powell (C) – Athletics / Wilmington ‘01
Steven Tolleson (IF) – Athletics / Spartanburg ‘03
*Dallas McPherson (IF) – Athletics / Asheboro ‘99
*Joe Smith (RHP) – Indians / Edenton ‘05
*David Aardsma (RHP) – Mariners / Fayetteville ‘01
*Ty Wigginton (IF) – Orioles / Rocky Mount ’97 / Florence ‘98
Heath Rollins (RHP) – Rays / Florence ‘04
*Tug Hulett (IF) – Red Sox / Peninsula ‘02
*Kevin Youkilis (IF) – Red Sox / Florence ‘99
*Josh Rupe (RHP) – Royals / Peninsula ‘01
David Lough (OF) – Royals / Florence ‘07
*Justin Verlander (RHP) – Tigers / Wilson ‘02
*Don Kelly (OF) – Tigers / Petersburg ‘00
*Sam Narron (LHP) – Tigers / Outer Banks ‘00
Steve Singleton (IF) – Twins / Thomasville ‘04
D.J. Mitchell (RHP) – Yankees / Thomasville ‘06
Ryan Pope (RHP) – Yankees / Gastonia ‘06
National League
Evan Englebrook (RHP) – Astros / Edenton ‘03
Lou Santangelo (C) – Astros / Petersburg ‘02
*Tyler Colvin (OF) – Cubs / Florence ‘04
*Mark Reynolds (IF) – Diamondbacks / Fayetteville ‘03
Josh Ellis (RHP) – Diamondbacks / Edenton ‘04
Tom Layne (LHP) – Diamondbacks / Martinsville ‘06
*A.J. Ellis (C) – Dodgers / Durham ’01, ’02
Kevin Pucetas (RHP) – Giants / Wilson ‘05
*John Bowker (OF) – Giants / Peninsula ‘02
Craig Clark (LHP) – Giants / Peninsula ’05, ‘06
*Todd Wellemeyer (RHP) – Giants / Thomasville ‘99
*Brett Carroll (OF) – Marlins / Florence ‘03
Chris Hatcher (C) – Marlins / Wilson ’04 / Wilmington ‘05
*Bobby Parnell (RHP) – Mets / Thomasville ‘03
*Russ Adams (IF) – Mets / Durham ‘00
*Ryan Zimmerman (IF) – Nationals / Peninsula ‘03
*Justin Maxwell (OF) – Nationals / Outer Banks ‘02
*Ryan Speier (RHP) – Nationals / Florence ‘00
Wynn Pelzer (RHP) – Padres / Wilmington ‘05
*Steve Pearce (IF) – Pirates / Fayetteville ‘04
John Raynor (OF) – Pirates / Wilmington ‘05
*Bill Bray (LHP) – Reds / Asheboro ‘02
Michael McKenry (C) – Rockies / Fayetteville ‘05
* - denotes CPL alum who has made his MLB debut
The Coastal Plain League is the nation’s hottest summer collegiate baseball league. Heading into its 14th season with 15 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia, the CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with wooden bats during the summer months. 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 http://www.coastalplain.com.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Forty-Four Coastal Plain League Alums in 2010 MLB Spring Training Camps
BOLTS TO PLAY RED WINGS IN EXHIBITION GAME
From the Rome Thunderbolts
The Rome Thunderbolts will kick off their season on June 3rd as they visit the Geneva Red Wings of the NYCBL. This will be the fourth season in a row the the Thunderbolts franchise has played the Red Wings in an exhibition game. Game time will be at 7pm.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Varce is brilliant for Portland
Zach Varce had quite the outing today for the University of Portland. Despite not factoring in the decision today, Zach simply dominated the Seattle University hitters. He allowed 1 run on 4 hits in 8 innings pitched today. He didn't walk a batter and he struck out an amazing 14 batters. In fact, he is known as a pitcher that has pinpoint control. In 14 innings pitched this season, he has walked just 1 batter. As a member of the Green Bay Bullfrogs this past summer, he walked just 20 batters in 74.2 innings pitched. Perfect Game had Zach ranked as the 7th best prospect in the ultra-competitive Northwoods League. I had the pleasure to interview Zach back in October. You can view the interview here.
Mohawks Announce 2010 Schedule
From the Amsterdam Mohawks
The Amsterdam Mohawks begin defense of their 2009 NYCBL Championship on SATURDAY June 5th at historic Shuttleworth Park vs. the Glens Falls Golden Eagles. The season closes at home on Monday July 26th vs. the Albany Dutchman. Game times for 2010 remain unchanged with first pitch scheduled for 7:05 for 20 of the 21 home games. The only exception is the June 14th game that begins at 10:30 a.m. and serves as the Mohawks popular School Kids Field Trip game.
Three Fridays and two Saturdays in June are on tap and Shuttleworth will be the place to be on Saturdays in July as the Mohawks are home every Saturday night in July plus two Fridays.
Ten Monday thru Thursday games fill out the schedule.
The League’s newest members the Cooperstown Hawkeyes and the Oneonta Outlaws invade Shuttleworth three times each, as do the Mohawk Valley DiamondDawgs. The other members of the NYCBL’s Eastern Division, the Watertown Wizards, the Albany Dutchmen and The Glens Falls Golden Eagles visit 4 times each.
A complete list of the Mohawks 2010 promotions will be released soon.
The complete schedule, both home and road is below.
To print a copy of the 2010 schedule go to www.amsterdammohawks.com and click on the schedule and results section.
NWL president 'hopeful' for expansion
From the Leader Telegram
Northwoods League president Dick Radatz Jr. said Thursday he is "hopeful" about putting a team in Elkhart, Ind., for the 2011 season. Read the rest here.
Sox Sign Brother Of Former Player
From the Marysville Gold Sox
The Marysville Gold Sox (Horizon Air Summer Series) announced today that they have signed Wade Koester from Quincy University for the 2010 season.
He is the younger brother of former Gold Sox player Cole Koester.
The 6' 3 195 lbs junior infielder from Effingham, Illinois hit .375 last season.
Koester is off to a hot start for the 2010 season as he collected six hits, including one home run and 4 rbi's in the helping the Hawks win 3 of 4 games last weekend.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Tomcats Unveil New Logo
One of the two new franchises in the Texas Collegiate League has unveiled it's new logo for the 2010 summer season. The Texas Tomcats, located in the town of Weimar will be sporting a pretty cool logo this summer. I have also been told that they will be announcing their roster pretty soon.
North-South Challenge Set for This Weekend at McNair Field
From the Coastal Plain League
The inaugural North-South Challenge will take place this weekend at McNair Field. The three day event begins with Appalachian State hosting Niagara Friday at 3 pm followed by Gardner-Webb vs. Marist at 7 pm. Saturday Appalachian plays Marist at 1 pm and Gardner-Webb plays Niagara at 5 pm. The games conclude Sunday with Appalachian facing Niagara at 1 pm and Gardner-Webb taking on Marist at 5 pm. Tickets are $6 for adults and $5 for youth and seniors. Tickets may be purchased for $3 with the donation of a new blanket to the United Way of Rutherford County at the gate.
In addition to great college baseball action, five members of the 2010 Forest City Owls roster will be in action this weekend. Pitchers Ryan Arrowood and Nate Hyatt from Appalachian State, pitcher Kyle Putnam from Marist, and pitcher Brett Stackhouse and infielder Dusty Quattlebaum from Gardner-Webb are signed by the Owls.
Arrowood was a member of the Owls 2009 Petitt Cup championship team and was the CPL’s Co-Defensive Player of the Year. He has made one appearance on the mound this season for Appalachian, earning a win over USC Upstate. He pitched 5 scoreless innings, striking out eight and allowing one walk. Arrowood has started three games at third base hitting .125. Hyatt has made two appearances so far this year and has a 0.00 ERA in two innings pitched. Appalachian State is 4-0 on the young season, including a victory over Gardner-Webb Tuesday at McNair Field. The Mountaineers are also 4-0 lifetime at McNair.
Kyle Putnam is a junior right handed pitcher from New Windsor, NY. He has made one appearance so far this season and has a 1.29 ERA in seven innings with six strike outs and one walk. Marist is 1-3 on the year, defeating Northwestern and losing two games to Winthrop and one contest to George Mason last weekend in Rock Hill, SC. The Red Foxes won the MAAC last season and competed in the Florida State NCAA Regional.
Gardner-Webb starting pitcher Brett Stackhouse will suit up for the Owls this summer, but will have plenty of experience at McNair Field before the CPL season starts in May. His first career start at the Owls home field was a no decision in the Bulldogs’ loss to Western Carolina Saturday. He pitched 5 2/3 innings giving up three runs on six hits and striking out four. Teammate Dusty Quattlebaum will also play for the Owls. He is redshirting this season at Gardner-Webb after transferring from N.C. State. The Bulldogs are searching for their first win of the season this weekend, as well as their first win at McNair Field.
Niagara is also looking to pick up their first win of the year this weekend. The Purple Eagles were swept by Vanderbilt in Nashville last weekend.
The Forest City Owls are the reigning Coastal Plain League Petitt Cup Champions. The Coastal Plain League is the nation’s hottest summer collegiate wooden bat league. Entering its fifteenth season, the CPL features fifteen teams in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. For more information, visit http://www.coastalplain.com.
GOLD SOX SIGN VIRGINIA TECH RECRUIT
From the Marysville Gold Sox
The Marysville Gold Sox (Horizon Air Summer Series) announced today that they have signed Delta College shortstop Stephen Malcolm for the 2010 season.
Malcolm, who redshirted at the University of California, Irvine last season currently plays at Delta College in Stockton, California. He has signed a letter of intent to play for the Virginia Tech Hokies next season.
The 6' 170 infielder and right handed pitcher was a first team Horizon Air Summer Series All Series shortstop while playing for Lodi last summer.
ContVact: Jack Johnson: 530-845-1200
Tom Lininger: 530-741-9440
Two Roadrunners Set To Play For The Diamond Dawgs
Two University of Texas at San Antonio Roadrunners are set to play for the Mohawk Valley Diamond Dawgs this summer.
Matthew James is a sophomore infielder from New Braunfels, TX. He is currently 1 for 4 with a run scored this spring.
Taylor Walton is a junior pitcher from Midland, TX. In 3 innings pitched, he has a 3.00 era. He has allowed 4 hits and has struck out 4 batters this spring.
Niemann & Moore Named to Generals Roster
From the Victoria Generals
The Victoria Generals have signed two more outfielders to help them defend their 2009 regular season Texas Collegiate League Championship. Michael Niemann, a junior from Delta State University, and Andrew Moore, a returning player for the Generals from Yale University, have signed contracts to become members of the 2010 Victoria Generals.
“We’re excited to have these two young men come in to anchor our outfield this summer,” said the General’s GM, Blake Koch. “Michael brings a great deal of playing experience to our roster while Andrew gives us another familiar face back in Victoria.”
Michael Niemann, a native of Yelm, Washington, joins the Generals from one of the most successful Division II programs in the nation. Delta State is a perennial powerhouse that is regularly in contention for the national championship. Niemann has been a standout player for Delta State over the past two seasons, becoming the first true freshman starter for Delta State since the early 1990’s. Neiman is coming off of a sophomore campaign in which he led the team in batting average with a .353 mark, in hits, with 73, and in stolen bases, going 24-of-27. Niemann was named to the All-Gulf South Conference First team for his efforts. As a freshman, Niemann hit .346 with 66 hits and 7 stolen bases while also earning a spot on the GSC All-Tournament Team. Niemann recently received the honor of being named to the 2010 Preseason All-GSC Team.
“Michael is a seasoned player that will step in and fill the role that James Hipp played for us last season,” said Koch. “Michael is a top-of-the-order guy who can generate runs and cause havoc for other teams on the base paths.”
Rejoining the Generals in 2010 is Andrew Moore. Moore was a regular contributor for the Generals last season, hitting 4 doubles while driving in 7 runs and drawing 16 walks. Moore’s biggest moment last year for the Generals came in the second game of the TCL Championship Series when he slugged a grand slam in the bottom of the 8th inning to help spark a huge rally to get the Generals back in the game. Moore is expected to be a starting outfielder at Yale this season.
“Andrew was by far our most improved player last season,” Koch continued. “He struggled a little bit at the beginning of the year while getting adjusted to using a wood bat, but really finished the year strong. Andrew has a lot of fire in his bat and is someone that we expect to put up big power numbers of us.”
General’s fans can purchase season tickets at the team shop located at 3708 North Navarro, Suite A in the Landmark Shopping Center. The Generals are also still looking for host families for the 2010 summer season. If you are interested, please visit the team website at www.victoriagenerals.com for more details.
News and Notes For Feb. 26th
Here are your daily college baseball news and notes.
**WALK-OFF WIN
RIVERSIDE, Calif. --- Sharif Othman was just trying to stick to his approach of not doing too much and making good contact up the middle. It was a philosophy that worked much better than expected. Read more.
**Merrill senior signs to play college baseball
MERRILL - Merrill senior Pascal Paul looked around at his options of playing college sports. The Bluejays senior starred at quarterback for Merrill but his college interest was luke warm at best. Read more.
**Chippewas Set to Open 2010 Season in California
MOUNT PLEASANT -- There will be a very different feel to the start of the 2010 season for the Central Michigan baseball team. Read more.
**Coker squanders 10-run lead
HARTSVILLE — The Coker Cobras blew a 10-run lead and lost, 15-14, to Augusta State on Thursday in baseball action. Read more.
**UCO baseball gets back to .500
UCO’s Luke Yost was able to feel both the lowest of lows and the highest of highs in the thrilling 6-5 Broncho win over Missouri Southern University on Tuesday. Read more.
**Salukis still looking for first win
CARBONDALE - Southern Illinois University's baseball team will turn to junior college transfer Randy Hoelscher to earn the team's first victory of the season. Read more.
It's dress-up day for Black Bears
From the TDN.com
Cougars’ Drobnick Back for More
From the Wisconsin Woodchucks
Wausau, WI - February 22, 2010 - The Wisconsin Woodchucks have re-signed Washington State University pitcher Anthony Drobnick for his second season of ‘Chucks baseball. The 6'2" 208-pound righty has just embarked on his sophomore season at WSU under head coach Donnie Marbut.
Drobnick was a late arrival in his first season as a Woodchuck due to Washington State's success in reaching the NCAA tournament regionals and Drobnick's participation in summer school. Regardless, in 18 strong appearances (predominantly as a closer) Drobnick went 3-1 while posting a 3.08 ERA whilst holding his opponents to an impressive .216 batting average.
"He was as big a part of our push at the end of the season as anyone," said Woodchucks manager Guido Aspeitia on Drobnick's return. "We're real happy to have Anthony back, great kid, works hard, [and a] good team leader."
In 2009 at Washington State, Drobnick battled through a trying true freshman campaign. While only appearing in 10 games, Drobnick flashed his potential by striking out one batter per inning pitched while posting a .263 opponent batting average. It would appear that control issues- which are in no way uncommon for young power pitchers- stymied his progress to end his freshman season with a 6.30 ERA.
Drobnick had a prolific career at Seattle Prep School where he starred on the mound and in the field, lettering all four years. He would be named a team captain as a junior, as well as 1st team All-Conference, league MVP, and 1st team All-State. During his senior campaign, Drobnick would be named team captain once again, while garnering All-Conference first team accolades as a designated hitter, and All-State second team honors as a pitcher- posting a .313 BA and a 0.92 ERA, respectively.
The Wisconsin Woodchucks are a member of the prestigious 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 2010 home opener is on Thursday, June 3rd as they take on the Madison Mallards. For group outing/ticket information contact the Woodchucks office at 715-845-5055 or visit the Woodchucks website at woodchucks.com.
- provided by Casey Olbrantz, Woodchucks Media Relations Department
Thursday, February 25, 2010
DUTCHMEN ALUMNUS BEN KLIMESH OFF TO HOT START
From the Albany Dutchmen
Klimesh with Jacob during last summers Jacob's Day
As the collegiate seasons begin, both current and former Albany Dutchmen are starting to take to fields across the country in pursuit of their baseball dreams. Perhaps nobody has started off on a better note than one of last year's starters for the Dutchmen, Ben Klimesh.
A Sophomore pitcher from Trinity University (TX), Klimesh has followed up his strong summer by pitching his way into the Tigers rotation. In the teams fourth game of the season, Klimesh toed the rubber against a very solid Mary-Hardin Baylor team and was nearly unhittable. The 6'4" right-hander tossed a complete game shutout in a 7-0 victory for the Tigers.
In his nine innings of work, Klimesh surrendered six hits, while issuing four free passes and striking out nine. It was his first start of the season, after pitching out of the bullpen in Trinity's first season series. The win gave him a 1-0 record in his 11.1 innings of work, lowering his ERA to 2.38. He has struck out 11 and walked five, while holding opposing hitters to a .262 batting average against.
The Wilmete, Illinois native was one of the more unheralded members of the Dutchmen's inaugural roster. Coming from a small, division three school in San Antonio, not many people knew what to expect from the lankly pitcher, but he impressed early on, earning a spot in the rotation. Klimesh was one of the most consistent starters in the 2009 summer, compiling a 3-2 record in seven summer starts. In 35.1 innings pitched, the Illinois native recorded a 2.55 ERA, while giving up 33 hits, striking out 24 and holding opponents to a .241 ERA
Golden Giants announce 2010 Schedule
From the Topeka Golden Giants
TOPEKA, KS - The Topeka Golden Giants independent summer collegiate baseball team is proud to announce its 2010 schedule.
The 2010 season kicks off with a bang, as the Golden Giants will play host to the Rockford Foresters of the new Great Plains Baseball League - June 4, 5, 6th.
Topeka will also play host to a variety of local and regional teams, many with very good track records of success in the National Baseball Congress tournament. The most notable is the defending NBC champion El Dorado Broncos, who come to Topeka on June 30th.
The Golden Giants wanted to have a schedule this year which featured teams from around Kansas to show how strong Summer Collegiate baseball is in the state. Topeka will play host to the Dodge City A’s, Valley Center Diamond Dawgs, Salina Blue Jays, Midwest (Wichita) Wolverines, Kansas City Barnstormers, Clearwater Cowboys and their friendly rivals to the west - the Junction City Generals. In fact, the Golden Giants and Generals will face each other five times throughout the season.
Rockford isn't the only out of state team the Golden Giants will face this year, Topeka will welcome in the Denver Cougars, Kansas City Blues and former MINK League foe - the Sedalia Bombers.
After the regular season is complete, the Golden Giants will host the National Collegiate Summer Classic beginning on July 12th. The Summer Classic is an open tournament for any summer collegiate baseball team in the country. Interest in the tournament ranges from New York, Georgia, Colorado, Illinois, Virginia, Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas. Participants will be announced at a later date, but the Summer Classic promises to be great collection of baseball talent.
2010 Topeka Golden Giants Schedule (home games in bold)
Rockford Foresters@ Topeka June 4th 7:05 pm
Rockford Foresters @ Topeka June 5th 7:05 pm
Rockford Foresters @ Topeka June 6th 1:05 pm
Kansas City Barnstormers @ Topeka June 7th 7:05 pm
Kansas City Barnstormers @ Topeka June 8th 7:05 pm
Kansas City Blues @ Topeka June 9th 7:05 pm
Valley Center Diamond Dawgs @ Topeka June 10th 7:05 pm
Topeka @ Junction City Generals June 11th 7:05 pm
Junction City Generals @ Topeka June 12th 7:05 pm
Salina Blue Jays@ Topeka June 13th 1:05 pm
Salina Blue Jays @ Topeka June 13th 4:05 pm
Sedalia Bombers @ Topeka June 15th 7:05 pm
Kansas City Blues @ Topeka June 16th 7:05 pm
Denver Cougars @ Topeka June 18th 8:05 pm
Denver Cougars @ Topeka June 19th 1:05 pm
Denver Cougars @ Topeka June 19th 4:05 pm
TBA @ Topeka June 20th
Midwest Wolverines @ Topeka June 22nd 7:05 pm
Clearwater Cowboys @ Topeka June 23rd 7:05 pm
Topeka @ Dodge City A's June 24th 7:05 pm
Topeka @ El Dorado Broncos June 25th 7:05 pm
TBA @ Topeka June 26th
Junction City Generals @ Topeka June 27th 1:05 pm
Topeka @ Sedalia Bombers June 29th 7:05 pm
El Dorado Broncos @ Topeka June 30th 7:05 pm
Topeka @ Junction City Generals July 1st 7:05 pm
Dodge City A's @ Topeka July 2nd 7:05 pm
Dodge City A's @ Topeka July 3rd 7:05 pm
Junction City Generals @ Topeka July 4th 6:05 pm
Topeka @ Rockford Foresters June 7th 7:05 pm
Topeka @ Rockford Foresters June 8th 11:05 am
Topeka @ Rockford Foresters June 8th 7:05 pm
Topeka @ Rockford Foresters June 9th 7:05 pm
Topeka @ Rockford Foresters June 10th 7:05 pm
National Collegiate Summer Classic July 12th
National Collegiate Summer Classic July 13th
National Collegiate Summer Classic July 14th
National Collegiate Summer Classic July 15th
National Collegiate Summer Classic July 16th
National Collegiate Summer Classic July 17th
For media inquiries contact the following:
Brett Cowdin
Team President
Phone: 785-249-8770
email: bcowdin@topekagoldengiants.com
David Streeter
Director of Marketing adn P.R.
Phone: 785-215-3005
email: dstreeter@topekagoldengiants.com
Loggers Ink Florida Gulf Coast Backstop
From the La Crosse Loggers
The La Crosse Loggers now have three catchers signed for the 2010 season as they announced the signing of Florida Gulf Coast University catcher Mike Reeves.
Reeves joins Chris O’Dowd (Dartmouth) and Bennett Pickar (Oral Roberts) as the trio of catchers for the Loggers this upcoming season. Reeves was a 42nd round draft pick of the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2009 Major League Baseball draft before making the decision to attend FGCU. Reeves is also expected to see significant playing time in this his freshman year at FGCU as starting catcher Robert Greene is currently sidelined with an elbow injury.
A 2009 graduate of St. Peter’s Secondary School, Reeves was named to the Premiere Baseball League All-Star Team. Reeves was also a multi-sport athlete in high school as he was named the Most Valuable Player on his high school basketball team.
Reeves comes from a family filled with athletic talent as his father played hockey for the University of Pennsylvania. His brother, Jeff, also played collegiate baseball as he played for Winthrop University.
The Loggers will open this upcoming season on June 2, 2010 as they play host to the visiting Eau Claire Express. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 at Copeland Park.
GOLD SOX ALUM REPORT TO MAJOR LEAGUE SPRING TRAINING
From the Marysville Gold Sox
After being the Oakland Athletics opening day starter last season former Gold Sox pitcher Dallas Braden (2003) is a veteran of major league spring training. But for three other former Gold Sox players 2010 will mark their first spring training with the big league club.
The Oakland A's have become Marysville Gold Sox south with former players Dallas Braden, Justin Souza (2005) and Max Stassi (2009) in major league camp.
A fourth former Gold Sox player, Tommy Everidge (2003-04), who hit .224 with 2 home runs in limited action with Oakland last season, has since moved on to the Seattle Mariners where he will try to make the big clubs roster out of spring training.
As for Souza and Stassi, both are getting their first opportunity to impress the big club's brass.
Souza was originally drafted in the 9th round by the Seattle Mariners out of Sacramento City College.
The 6' 1, 185 lb right handed pitcher was dealt to the A's last summer in exchange for veteran infielder Jack Hannahan.
Souza has split time between the Mariners and Athletics AA and AAA clubs over the last two seasons.
Oakland's 4th round draft pick in last years June draft, Stassi hit .301 with a home run and 26 RBI's with the Gold Sox last season.
Following the season he signed a record (for 4th round) 1.5 million contract with the A's and hit .286 with 8 RBI's in 13 games with the Athletics rookie level affiliate, Vancouver Canadians.
Contact: Tom Lininger 530-741-9440
Jack Johnson 530-845-1200
HiToms Hosting Free Kid’s Clinic
From the Thomasville HiToms
High Point/Thomasville, NC – The HiToms and Thomasville Medical Center will be conducting their annual Kid’s baseball clinic Saturday, March 6th from 9:00 a.m. – 12 Noon at Historic Finch Field.
The three-hour instructional clinic is open to boys and girls from the ages of 7-13 and will be conducted by the HiToms staff and area high school coaches.
For registration information please log onto www.hitoms.com and click on the HiToms/TMC Baseball Clinic icon or call the HiToms office at 472-8667.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
News and Notes.....Part Two
More college baseball news for you.
**Beavers outlast Wolves in non-conference battle
MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. – Two close games went the way of the Beavers Monday, as the Northern State University baseball squad lost 4-2 and 4-3 to Bemidji State University at the H.H.H. Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minn. Read more.
**Season Opens This Weekend
The Rider baseball team will begin the 2010 season Saturday, February 27, with a 12 noon doubleheader at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Read more.
**Spring Hill Sweeps Concordia-Selma
MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - The Spring Hill College baseball team swept a non-conference doubleheader from the Hornets of Concordia College-Selma by the scores of 3-2 and 9-7 on Tuesday afternoon. Read more.
**Rebels hold off Arkansas State, 3-2
OXFORD — Four pitchers combined to scatter eight hits and limit Arkansas State to two runs today, leading Ole Miss to a 3-2 non-conference baseball victory at Oxford-University Stadium. Read more.
**Baseball picked to finish third in Empire 8 preseason poll
ROCHESTER, NY -- The RIT baseball team was picked to finish third in the 2010 Empire 8 Baseball Preseason Coaches poll, released on Wednesday. The Tigers, who finished second in the conference with a 9-7 mark, received 10 points, including one first place vote in the preseason poll. RIT was narrowly edged out by Ithaca and St. John Fisher for the top spot in the preseason poll. Read more.
Three Panthers Headed To Watertown
The Watertown Wizards of the NYCBL have signed three Georgia State Panthers for this upcoming summer season. All three have seen action for the Panthers this season.
Joey Wood is a 6-0/180 pound Sophomore outfielder. He is currently 3 for 7 for the Panthers.
Jonathon Kolowich is a 6-3/215 pound outfielder. He is currently 2 for 12 with 2 doubles and 1 rbi.
Michael Moch is a 6-1/190 pound Freshman pitcher. He is 1-0, with a 18.00 era in 1 inning of work.
In The Falcons Nest - AJ Carman
From the Kelowna Falcons
The Kelowna Falcons continue to release information on their players from the 2010 roster.
The Kelowna Falcons are pleased to announce they have signed right handed pitcher AJ Carman from Washington State University for the 2010 summer. Read the rest here.
Ryman to Lead Outlaws in 2010
From the Nashville Outlaws
The Nashville Outlaws have announced Brian Ryman as the team's first manager.
Brian Ryman is in his fifth year with the Lipscomb baseball program, returning this season to the position of director of baseball operations. Ryman served as director of baseball operations in 2006-2007. He was named an assistant coach for the 2007, 2008 and 2009 seasons.
Ryman’s responsibilities at Lipscomb include managing baseball camps, over seeing fundraising; all team travel, on campus recruiting, and summer league placement for the Lipscomb players. Ryman is also baseball's liaison with Lipscomb athletics media relations, marketing and promotions and compliance. He also works closely with the National Bison Club and the Lipscomb Baseball Alumni, organizing various team events throughout the year, and he helped coordinated the Lipscomb Baseball Alumni & Friends Golf Tournament.
A native of Jefferson City, Tenn., Ryman served as a manager and student assistant at the University of Tennessee. During his time with the Vols, the team went to three SEC tournaments, three regionals, and one super regional, and the College World Series in 2005. Ryman, 29, was born May 30, 1980. His father is a scout for the Chicago Cubs and his brother played at Carson- Newman College. He attended Jefferson County High School, Hiwassee College and The University of Tennessee.
News and Notes For Feb. 24th
Here are some of your daily college baseball related news and notes. Please remember to email me at 316sports@gmail.com with any stories or articles that you want me to publish. I am especiall interested in news from DII, DIII, NAIA and Juco ball.
**Smith Earns LSC Diamond Pitcher of the Week For Performance Against Cameron (Photo is courtesy of ENMSU Athletics)
RICHARDSON, TEXAS - Junior pitcher Anthony Smith (29 Palms, Calif./Cal State-Stanislaus) has been selected Lone Star Conference Diamond Co-Pitcher of the Week for his performance in the Greyhounds LSC series at 19th-ranked Cameron last week. He shared the honor with Heath Wyatt from Southeastern Oklahoma State. Read more.
**Morriss receives LSC honor
For the second time in the last three weeks an Angelo State baseball player has been honored by the Lone Star Conference as senior Jason Morriss has been named the LSC Diamond Hitter of the Week announced by the league Tuesday afternoon. Read more.
**Hoffman Named SCAC Baseball Offensive Player of the Week
February 23, 2010, Greencastle, Ind. — DePauw senior infielder Taylor Hoffman has been named the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Week for his performances in DePauw's season-opening series. Read more.
**Hinson's pinch-hit homer lifts Elon past High Point
HIGH POINT — Matt Hinson’s pinch-hit three-run homer in the eighth inning catapulted the Elon University baseball team to an 8-3 non-conference victory against High Point on Tuesday. Read more.
**Buckeye baseball has weapons to repeat
With one Big Ten baseball championship under the collective belts of the Ohio State University's baseball team, these players must deal with the pressure of bringing back another title. With most starters from last year returning, including conference player of the year Dan Burkhart and Golden Spikes Watch List candidate Alex Wimmers, Ohio State will be expected to take care of business once again. Read more.
**Cougars Earn Pre-Season Accolades
Union, N.J. (2/24/10) - The Kean University baseball is ready for the 2010 season if mother nature cooperates and already they have received many accolades during the pre-season. Read more.
Melgosa Swinging A Hot Bat For The Gaels
Markus Melgosa (Saint Mary's) had an outstanding game back on the 20th of February. In the Gaels 12-4 victory over defending WAC Champion San Jose State, Mark went 5 for 6, with 3 runs and 2 rbi's, and one of his 5 hits was a triple. Fans of the Cal Ripken League take note, Mark will be playing for the Bethesda Big Train this summer.
Delaware Cows swing back into action
From the Delaware Gazette
To many sports fans, summer means baseball. For the baseball fanatics of Delaware, this summer will be no exception as the Delaware Cows return to the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League (GLSCL). Read the rest here.
SwampDogs Sign Mt. Olive Duo
From the Fayetteville SwampDogs
The Trojans of Mount Olive will be well represented this season in "The Swamp" after the recent additions of Carter Capps and Michael Knox to the Fayetteville SwampDogs roster for the 2010 summer. Both Capps and Knox are sophomores from the private institution located in North Carolina. Mount Olive was the 2008 Division II National Champions in Baseball.
Capps, a 6-4 right handed pitcher, is a native of Kinston, N.C. where he attended North Lenoir High School. Capps is no stranger to the nation's hottest collegiate summer baseball league. During the summer of 2009, Capps played for the Martinsville Mustangs, also of the Coastal Plain League. Pitching exclusively out of the bullpen for Martinsville, Capps went 2-2 with a microscopic 0.82 E.R.A and one save. The tall right-hander struck out 18 while walking only three in 11 innings of work. Opponents hit only .179 off of Capps.
Like Capps, Knox also spent time in the Coastal Plain League. Unlike Capps though, Knox played his ball in Fayetteville. Despite being a late edition to the roster, Knox's play at the end of the regular season earned him a spot in the Dogs post season lineup. Knox made the most of the opportunity, recording at least one hit in every playoff contest. With a full summer in "The Swamp," the 6-4, 225 pound first baseman will look to increase his playing time and his production.
As of 2/19 the Trojan duo is off to a great start. Knox is hitting .533 with two homeruns and 12 RBIs. Capps is an impressive 2-0 with only two earned runs in nine innings pitched.
"Over the past few years we've had a great relationship with Mt. Olive and their staff. Coach Lancaster's players are always are great teammates and always play the game extremely hard. I expect Michael and Carter will be no different," said SwampDogs head coach Darrell Handelsman. "
Michael has legitimate power and certainly has the ability to hit in the middle of our lineup and be a run producer. Carter Capps is just starting to scratch the surface of how good he could be. He's made continual progress since enrolling at Mt Olive and I expect him to be a big part of our rotation this summer."
Pump Jacks Release New, Expanded TCL Schedule
From the East Texas Pump Jacks
New teams, even a new state, mean a new schedule.
The East Texas Pump Jacks officially unveiled their schedule for the 2010 season, a 56-game slate beginning June 2 that runs through August 9. Read the rest here.
Tyler Kuehl Is North Shore Bound
The North Shore Navigators have signed Tyler Kuehl from Point Loma Nazarene. Tyler is a Junior infielder from San Diego. He is currently hitting .300/.475/.333 in 40 at-bats. He lead the team with 7 doubles and has also scored 10 times this season.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Orosey tosses 13th no-hitter in TLU Baseball history
This is about 2 weeks old, but Texas Lutheran pitcher Brad Orosey pitched a no-hitter back on the 13th of Feb. Brad will be pitching for the Cooperstown Hawkeyes this summer. You can read the press release here.
Incoming Loggers Enjoy Big 2010 Debuts
From the La Crosse Loggers
Division I college baseball got underway in a big way this past weekend as a number of incoming Loggers hit the field for the first time in 2010, some for the first time as a collegiate athlete.
The Logger headliner from this past weekend had to have come from the University of Arizona where freshman hurler Kurt Heyer took full advantage of being named Arizona's Friday night starter by striking out 13 batters over 6 innings in a season-opening win over visiting Utah Valley.
There were other notables making their collegiate debuts as well including freshman third basemen Jacob Lamb (Washington) who opened the season hitting in the three-hole for the Huskies. Blair Moore, who played with the Loggers as a high school senior last summer, also made his first collegiate appearance and went 3 for 9 over the weekend for San Diego State.
One player who is entering his sophomore season, made his UCLA debut this weekend by clubbing two home runs and driving in five runs is Dean Espy. Espy started at the hot corner on opening night for the Bruins and figures to be a big part of their lineup this season.
Returning Logger Tony Mueller (Winona State) also got his sophomre season underway at the Metrodome on Sunday evening as he laced the first pitch of the 2010 season for a triple in game one of a twinbill and then pitched five innings of one run baseball in the night cap, striking out six.
DUTCHMEN SET TO ADD NEW TALENT FROM RUTGERS
From the Albany Dutchmen
When it came time for the Albany Dutchmen to put together their roster for the 2010 summer, there was no question about which school was on the top of their list. After the success that Jarred Jimenez had on the field, and the connection that he established with the organization and his host family, the Dutchmen were anxious to go back to Rutgers University in hopes of finding even more great baseball talent. Before the Bleecker Stadium grass had a chance to dry after the unbelievably wet summer of 2009, Albany had already landed Rutgers players, Sean Campbell, Ryan Kapp and DJ Anderson to the 2010 roster.
All three players come to Albany hoping to build off the success that Jimenez enjoyed last season. One of the unquestioned leaders of the Dutchmen, Jarred lead the team with a .279 batting average and 25 stolen bases, which was good for tops in the NYCBL. He also added 11 extra base hits, including two home runs, 17 RBIs and a .411 OBP, while playing flawless defense in center field and being one of the more competitive players on the field at all times.
Each of the three new additions can count Jimenez among their biggest supporters. Earlier in the fall, the former Dutchmen called new signee DJ Anderson, the best third baseman he had ever played with. The likely starter at 3B heading into Rutgers' season, Anderson, now a Junior, has never had problems with the glove. He has a quick release and soft hands that are very important at the hot corner. Standing 6'1" 195 pounds, the Randolph, NJ native is also a good hitter, with a solid middle and opposite field approach. During the 2009 collegiate season, he appeared in 31 games, starting 19 of them at 3B, en route to a .307 batting average and .349 OBP while adding eleven RBIs.
Joining Anderson in the lineup will be Sophomore, Ryan Kapp. Kapp saw inconsistent action as a freshman in a crowded outfield, but boasts physical tools that the Rutgers coaches rave about. Appearing in 26 games, the RF from Toms River, NJ earned 55 at-bats, collecting eight extra base hits and ten RBIs, while accumulating a .358 OBP. At 6'3" 200 pounds, Kapp possesses above average power and a strong arm from the outfield.
Rounding out the Rutgers contingent will be left-handed pitcher, Sean Campbell. A two-way player in high school, Campbell really turned a corner this past summer on the mound. Putting his talents together, Campbell impressed with a mid to upper 80s fastball and a solid feel for how to approach each batter. His performance was enough to get him invited to a tryout with the Major League Scouting Bureau and a larger role on the Rutgers staff this upcoming season. At 6'2" 175 pounds, the Trenton, NJ native has good size to match his live arm and figures to improve on his 4.66 ERA in ten appearances last season.
With the summer season still months away, the players are all focused on their upcoming collegiate seasons, but it's hard not to get exicted about the talent that is set to make it's way to Albany in the summer of 2010.
White Starts Of The Season Right For Lander
Sophomore pitcher, Michael White is currently sporting a 2.25 era in 4 innings pitched for the 9-1 Lander Bearcats. Micheal, a Greenwood, SC native, has pitched in 3 games for Lander. He was walked just 1 batter and has fanned 4 on the season. Michael will be playing for the Lake Norman Copperheads of the SCBL this summer.
News and Notes---Part Dos
Here is your second edition of college baseball news and notes.
**SLUGGING BACK: Hernandez hitting stride for Bearcats (photo is courteys of Scott J. Bryan)
Lander University baseball player Pete Hernandez said the worst part of serving as a designated hitter is the helplessness one feels after a poor at-bat. Read more.
**Foley Field Fans Can Support Prayers For Chance Fund
Athens, GA - Fans attending University of Georgia baseball games at Foley Field this season will have an opportunity to contribute to the Prayers for Chance fund. Read more.
**Wheaton baseball 2010 season preview
Wheaton, Ill. -The 2010 season looks to be the year Wheaton College baseball has been building towards for the last three seasons. Or maybe even the culmination of the last 100 years. The Thunder are hoping the historic achievements of the past two years are only a prelude for greater things to come. Read more.
**SHC Baseball Sweeps Weekly GCAC Awards
The Spring Hill College baseball team swept the weekly Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) awards for the week of February 15-21 as sophomore David Dupuy, Jr. was named the Pitcher of the Week and junior Brad Holstein was named the Player of the Week as selected by the conference Sports Information Directors. Read more.
**Taylor Rogers Named SEC Freshman of the Week
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- After pitching 7.2 shutout innings in his collegiate debut in a win over West Virginia on Saturday, Kentucky freshman southpaw Taylor Rogers has been tabbed Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Week, it was announced by the league office Monday morning. Read more.
**College baseball: FGCU's Gaines named A-Sun Player of Week
FGCU’s Austin Gaines led the Eagles to a sweep to earn Atlantic Sun Player of the Week, while Scott McNally helped ETSU to a 2-1 weekend, including an upset of No. 34 Kansas State to earn the pitcher of the week award. Read more.
Bombers Sign FGCU Freshman
The Battle Creek Bombers have inked Kevin Bryant from Florida Gulf Coast University. Bryant is a 6-3/190 pound lefty from Homestead, FL. He was a star both on the diamond and in the classroom at South Dade High School. He has yet to see action for the Eagles this spring.
AppleSox Begin to Assemble 2010 Roster
From the Wenatchee AppleSox
(Wenatchee, WA) - The AppleSox are putting the pieces together to defend the West Coast League Championship. AppleSox Head Coach Ed Knaggs has five players from Gonzaga set to be a part of the 2010 team. The Bulldogs are sending left-handed pitcher Tyler Olson, outfielder/left-hander pitcher Billy Moon, catcher/first baseman Brock Slavin, third baseman Sean Wilson, and left-handed pitcher/first baseman Marco Gonzales.
“There has been a long line of Zags to come play for us,” said Knaggs, who spent seven years as a Gonzaga assistant coach. “They know what type of experience their players will have here, and we know we are not only getting good players but good people. We tend to talk first at the end of each summer.”
Both Olson and Moon are familiar with the AppleSox and the West Coast League. The two were teammates at University High School in Spokane and played against the AppleSox as members of the Spokane RiverHawks last season.
Slavin was originally slated to play for the AppleSox last season out of high school, but was a late scratch due to an injury. The freshman out of Tenino, WA, was ranked as the top catcher in the state out of high school by Baseball Northwest.
Wilson is entering his first year with the Bulldogs after transferring from the College of San Mateo, where he earned Junior College All-American honors. The junior from Orange, CA, looks to be the Zags starting third baseman when they open their season.
Gonzales, the high school senior from Fort Collins, CO, will begin at Gonzaga in the fall of 2010 after signing with the Bulldogs. Even though he is the youngest of the group, Gonzales has already had a decorated baseball career. He is a three-time All-State selection in Colorado, where he has lead his high school to three state titles, starting on the mound and earning the win in all three championship games.
"Marco is one of the top two-way prospects in the country," said Gonzaga Head Coach Mark Machtolf when Gonzales signed his letter of intent in November.
The AppleSox open the 2010 season on the road June 8th against the expansion Walla Walla Sweets. The home opener is June 11th against the Kitsap BlueJackets at Paul Thomas Sr. Field. Tickets are available now at www.applesox.com or by calling (509) 665-6900.
About the Wenatchee AppleSox:
The Wenatchee AppleSox Baseball Club is part of the West Coast League, one of the premier wood-bat summer collegiate leagues in the country. The AppleSox provide affordable family entertainment for baseball fans throughout North Central Washington, and an excellent environment for college players from around the country to develop their skills.
The AppleSox were founded in 2000 and have won the West Coast League Championship three out of the last five seasons (2005, 2006, and 2009). The team plays a 54 game schedule and in 2009 averaged 1,340 fans per game. There are currently two AppleSox alumni in the major leagues, Jason Hammel (Colorado Rockies) and Clay Mortensen (Oakland Athletics). For more information, visit www.applesox.com.
Northwoods League Set To Invade Elkhart?
It looks as if the Northwoods League will be expanding to Elkhart, IN for the 2011 season. County developers unveiled a plan yesterday for a baseball stadium, office buildings and restaurants to be built. If this goes through, it only strengthens the Northwoods League and gives the Battle Creek Bombers a team that's closer to them than in Wisconsin. You can read the press release here.
Brenden Kalfus 3 for 4 over the weekend vs San Jose State
From the Bend Elks
St Mary's freshman outfielder Brenden Kalfus collected 3 hits and 3 RBI's vs San Jose State. Kalfus is one of two switch hitters headed to Bend to play for the Elks this summer
CARROLL ON THE HILL FOR LeMOYNE
From the Rome Thunderbolts
The first Bolts player to see action this baseball season was LeMoyne College's Kevin Carroll. Carroll pitched in two games versus the University of Illinois-Chicago this past weekend. Kevin threw two innings and let up only one run on one hit. Next weekend, more teams with Rome players will see their first action of the season.
News and Notes For Feb. 23rd
Here is your first installment of college baseball news and notes.
**EMU Opens Regular Season With Split Against No. 25 Kansas
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (EMUEagles.com) - The Eastern Michigan University baseball team opened the 2010 season Monday night, Feb. 22, at the Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minn., as the Eagles split their doubleheader against the No. 25 ranked Kansas University Jayhawks. Read more.
**Perfect FSC Is #1 in National Baseball Poll
LAKELAND When it comes to baseball, Florida Southern College expect to be the nation's top team. Read more.
**North Central Drops Opening Doubleheader
The North Central Missouri College baseball season got off to a rocky start on Saturday in Stillwater, OK. The Pirates dropped both ends of a doubleheader to Northeast Oklahoma Community College, falling 13-0 in game one and 16-0 in game two. Read more.
**Baseball Sweeps Monday Twinbill over Castleton State College
TYLER – The University of Texas at Tyler baseball team shook off a pair of losses to Texas Lutheran three days ago with a twinbill sweep over visiting Castleton State College, winning a lengthened game one 19-4 and game two, 8-3. Read more.
**Heyer named Pac-10 Pitcher of the Week
TUCSON, Ariz. – Arizona freshman pitcher Kurt Heyer collected a pair of honors on Monday following his brilliant debut performance last Friday night when he helped lead Arizona to its 2,500th all-time victory as a program. Read more.
Knights sign RHP from Lewis & Clark
From the Gazette Times
CORVALLIS - The Corvallis Knights of the West Coast League have signed Lewis & Clark College junior righthanded pitcher Alex St. Pierre to 10-day contract. He's a native of Laguna Hills, Calif., and a graduate of Laguna Hill High. Read the rest here.
Bombers To Give Away MLB All-Star Game Tickets
From KBTX.com
BRYAN -- The Brazos Valley Bombers announced Tuesday that they are teaming up with KZNE the Zone to give away two tickets to the Major League Baseball All-Star Game, which will take place in Anaheim, California on July 13. Read more.
Rafters sign three arms from USC, Triggs, Smith and Douthit
From the Wisconsin Rafters
Wisconsin Rapids, WI – February 18th, 2010. The Rafters are excited to announce the signing of three pitchers from the University of Southern California. The first official members of the inaugural Rafters squad will be Andrew Triggs (sophomore right handed pitcher), Chad Smith (sophomore right handed pitcher) and Brad Douthit (sophomore left handed pitcher). The Trojans, along with most of college baseball, open up play this weekend.
Andrew Triggs, 6’3”, 210 lbs (R/R)
Triggs had an impressive and standout year as a freshman. He earned Pac-10 Conference honorable mention and Pac-10 Conference All-Academic first team in 2009. Triggs appeared in 15 games in 2009 and started 10; he finished the year with a 5-3 record and an ERA of 3.96. Triggs threw a complete game on April 10th against Oregon and had 6 strikeouts. Triggs is slotted to have the No. 1 spot in the weekend rotation for the Trojans in 2010.
This past summer, Triggs played in the New England Collegiate Baseball League. He is originally from Nashville, TN.
Chad Smith, 6’3”, 210 lbs (L/R)
Smith is a sophomore with 45 innings of experience for the Trojans. Smith ended the season with a 3.40 ERA and one save. Smith earned the start against at No. 1 UC Irvine in 2009 and allowed one run on two hits in 6 innings of work. Smith made his collegiate debut against Pepperdine a year ago. Smith is expected to be a part of the weekend rotation for the Trojans. Smith also has a cousin, Scott Nestor, playing with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Brad Douthit, 6’3”, 185 lbs (L/L)
Douthit will compete for playing time out of the bullpen. Douthit adds depth to the Trojans pitching staff. He made five appearances in 2009 and finished the season with a 4.15 ERA. Douthit had an impressive high school career with a personal career best ERA of 1.86 as a junior.
Field Manager Laverty on Triggs, Smith and Douthit:
“I was very excited when Andrew, Chad and Brad became available for the summer. Andrew and Chad are expected to be in the USC starting rotation and Brad will pitch in relief and possibly get a few mid week starts. All three will bring a great amount of experience to the Rafters pitching staff for the inaugural season.”
Ticket Packages and Group Tickets are on sale now! For more information call (715) 424-5400 or visit www.raftersbaseball.com. The Rafters will play a 70 game schedule with 35 home games in 2010. Opening Day at Witter Field is scheduled for Sunday, June 6 at 6:05pm vs the Eau Claire Express
Season ticket success could lead to more seats
From the Register Herald
Prospective fans of the West Virginia Miners have a say in the growth of Linda K. Epling Stadium.
As it stands now, premium seating capacity at the new stadium is 1,200. That only accounts for tip-up seats with arm rests and drink holders. General admission seating increases the overall capacity. Read the rest here.
Monday, February 22, 2010
News and Notes---Part Trois
Here are more college baseball articles and stories.
**Lobos Sweep Mountain West Conference Player of the Week Honors
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.--University of New Mexico senior center fielder Max Willett has been named the Mountain West Conference Player of the Week and junior transfer Mike Lachapelle has been named the MWC Pitcher of the Week as announced by the conference office today. Willett had a sensational series this weekend as the Lobos took two of three games from the top-ranked team in the nation, Texas. Willett was 7-for-11 against the top pitching staff in the nation on their home field and hit .636 with two doubles and one triple. Lachapelle scattered seven hits over six innings and allowed one run against the nation's top lineup. This is the second career award for Willett and the first for Lachapelle. Read more.
**Shippensburg baseball falls to 0-8
The Shippensburg University baseball team's early-season troubles continued in a weekend series at Barton (N.C.) College, where the Raiders dropped four straight games and fell to 0-8. Read more.
**Chanticleer baseball suffers first loss
CONWAY, S.C. – The 12th-ranked Coastal Carolina University baseball team (2-1) gave up just four hits on the day, but a ninth-inning run from Kentucky (3-0) lifted the Wildcats over the Chanticleers 3-2 in the final game of the Caravelle Resort Tournament in Conway, S.C. Read more.
Gaudet: From cut to Caveman to hero
From the Shreveport Times
BATON ROUGE — Matt Gaudet batted .600 over LSU's opening weekend with two home runs and six RBIs as the Tigers swept three games from Centenary. Read the rest of this article here.
Not exactly home, but close: Cape League host families ‘adopt’ their players
From Wicked Local
We all know Cape Cod is a destination. That’s what brought us here as well as the relatives and friends who love to visit for all or part of the summer.
Yet the logistics of “having company” can be overwhelming.
Read the rest here.
Topeka RoadRunners and Topeka Golden Giants join forces
From the Topeka Golden Giants
TOPEKA, KS - The Topeka RoadRunners and the Topeka Golden Giants have joined forces to keep families in Northeast Kansas entertained all year long.
The Topeka RoadRunners, part of the North American Hockey League, and the Topeka Golden Giants, an independent summer collegiate baseball team, are proud to announce a cross-promotional partnership.
"This partnership is based of the belief that quality family-friendly entertainment is readily available in the Capital City. The Golden Giants and RoadRunners both provide an affordable option for everyone in Northeast Kansas to enjoy,” Golden Giants Director of Marketing David Streeter said.
The goal of the partnership is to increase the visibility of each organization throughout Northeast Kansas. Keeping the RoadRunners brand visible during the summer months and the Golden Giants visible into the winter will give each organization the chance to spark the interest of potential fans when it's not their peak season.
The two programs are similar in make-up, as both focus on amateur athletes that are working their way up to the collegiate and professional ranks.
"I'm really excited to partner with the Topeka RoadRunners. I've been impressed with how they run their organization and the product they put on the ice. I think the future is bright for both organizations and look forward to working with them to make this a successful partnership,” Golden Giants President Brett Cowdin said.
The first connection between the two teams will likely be this spring when the RoadRunners host a Golden Giants night during playoffs.
“The partnership between the two teams will give us many opportunities for new events that are not only fun but also beneficial to the community,” RoadRunners Account Executive Tiffany Logue said.
Golden Giants Background
Founded in 2005, the Topeka Golden Giants are a summer collegiate wood bat baseball team, playing their home games at the Lake Shawnee Baseball complex. The Golden Giants feature college age players looking to hone their skills in competitive summer play in hopes of being drafted into professional baseball. Currently there are 8 former Golden Giants that are active in the affiliated minor leagues. From Triple-A to Rookie Ball the Golden Giants are well represented within the Minor Leagues. To date 11 former Golden Giants players have been drafted by Major League Baseball organizations.
The Topeka Golden Giants Baseball group, a 501 c 3 community based organization, is committed to enriching quality of life in Topeka, Kansas. We aim to accomplish this by providing affordable wholesome family entertainment and promoting the benefits of athletic competition through the successful ownership of a summer Collegiate baseball team.The organization strives to mold young men and great athletes into champions on the field and in the community.
Topeka RoadRunners Background
The Topeka Roadrunners hockey team is part of the North American Hockey League. The Roadrunners are lead by Head Coach Scott Langer. Twenty-five players between the ages of 16 and 21 make up the Roadrunners roster.
Roadrunners Hockey, LLC is headed up by Donald D. Stone, II and his wife Barbara. They purchased the franchise in May 2009 and have demonstrated their commitment to Topeka by signing a three year lease with a two year option in the Kansas Expocentre.
For media inquiries contact the following:
Brett Cowdin
Team President
Phone: 785-249-8770
email: bcowdin@topekagoldengiants.com
David Streeter
Director of Marketing adn P.R.
Phone: 785-215-3005
email: dstreeter@topekagoldengiants.com
News and Notes---Part Deux
More college baseball news and notes for you.
**Vitek And Coombs Sweep MAC West Weekly Baseball Awards (photo is courtesy of BSU Sports)
MUNCIE, Ind. - Ball State junior second baseman Kolbrin Vitek (Bryan, Ohio/Bryan) and senior right-hander Morgan Coombs (West Terre Haute, Ind./Lincoln Trail College) have been named the Mid-American Conference West Division Player and Pitcher of the Week, respectively, the league office announced Monday. The two recipients led the Cardinals to an upset victory at No. 15 Arkansas in the opening weekend of the 2010 season. Read more.
**Brock Stassi Named Nevada Student-Athlete of the Week
Brock Stassi is this week's Wolf Pack Athlete of the Week, presented by McDonald's for the week of Feb. 15-21. Read more.
**Huskies Comeback Falls Short
HAMPTON, VA-Despite seven runs in the top of the ninth inning, the Bloomsburg University baseball team fell to Kutztown University 11-10 in the final game of the 2010 Builder Invitational on Sunday evening. Read more.
**Baseball Sweeps Opening Weekend with 8-2 Win over Bucknell
PRINCE GEORGE, Va. - Playing at his high school alma mater, VMI junior Sam Roberts allowed just one run in five innings on the mound to get the win and hit a two-run double to break the game open as the Keydets swept their season-opening series against Bucknell with an 8-2 win at Prince George High School. Read more.
**ASU baseball team grabs sweep
SPARTANBURG, S.C. -Hector Crespo had to wait one game before getting a chance to play college baseball. He didn't waste his opportunity. Read more.
**Mount Olive tops Anderson in baseball
Mount Olive posted five runs in the fifth inning to power the nationally 16th-ranked team to a 12-1 victory over Anderson in Conference Carolinas baseball Sunday at Scarborough Field. Read more.
Cavemen to kick off second season at home
From Hannibal.net
Hannibal, MO —
For the second year in a row, the Hannibal Cavemen will kick off their season at home. The Cavemen’s 2010 schedule was announced Friday by the Prospect League. Read the rest here.
