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Top 25 other NCAA Baseball news, players, teams, coaching, etc...
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Friday 3/17
The best of the day in college baseball
1- Ole Miss pitchers scoreless streak reaches 46 innings.
You might want to sit down for this one. The Ole Miss Rebels have now held their opponents scoreless in a school-record five straight games after todays 1-0 blanking of Vanderbilt at Swayze Field. David Parkinson went 6.0 innings and relievers Will Stokes and Dallas Woolfolk went 2.0 and 1.0 respectively to shut down the Dores with just three hits. Want an even more impressive statistic? In their last 66 innings (since going 0-and-3 at the Shriners Classic in Houston), the Rebs have given up just two runs, which came in the 11th inning of a 2-0 loss to Georgia State. On top of all that, Rebel starting pitchers have not allowed a run in seven straight games, a streak of 49.2 innings.
2- Oregon State gives the Devils no due.
Man alive. Im not sure anyone saw this coming. For the second night in a row the Beavers built a dam on the Arizona State offense, but this time they also added a sledgehammer offense, racing past the Devils by a very smelly 10-1 count. Starting pitcher Bryce Fehmel lasted 8.0 innings, giving up a run on just four hits and a walk. Grant Gambrell shut down the ninth inning, allowing one hit. That five-hitter combines with Thursday nights two-hitter in a 2-0 win to give the Devils seven hits and one run in 18 innings of play vs. the visiting Beavers. To be honest, I was looking at this weekend as a huge test for the Beavers since this was going to be their toughest atmosphere to go into so far this season, but after two straight wins, the Boys from Corvallis are now 16-1.
3- LSUs scoreboard lights up like a pinball machine.
Oh sure, it was *only* Georgia, but the Tiger bats went berserk in the 22-9 rout of the Bulldogs at Alex Box Stadium. Antoine Duplantis collected a program-best six hits in a 6-for-6 day that resulted in seven RBI. Oddly, only one of his hits was of the multi-base variety. Meanwhile, Kramer Robertson added five hits including a program-best three doubles. The 22 runs was the most the Purple and Gold had scored in an SEC game since 1998s 27-6 bloodletting of Arkansas.
Honorable Mentions
West Virginia hands Baylor a rare loss.
The Mountaineers improved to 9-7 with a surprising 7-1 squashing of the Baylor Bears in Waco. B.J. Myers had a great night, going 8.0 innings with just five hits surrendered and not a single walk on the night. Jackson Sigman posted a 1.0 inning of relief and teamed to hold BU to just six hits in the game. Offensively, Cole Austin lead the Mountaineer attack with three hits and Jackson Cramer and Ivan Gonzalez contributed with two hits each. The Bears drop to 15-3 suffering just their second home loss this season.
Those Oh-So-Tough Virginia Arms
UVa pitching coach Karl Kuhn doesnt accept crybabies. Thats why its not so shocking that Daniel Lynch, Alec Bettinger and Tommy Doyle went bravely into Doug Kingsmore Stadium and combined to hold Clemson to just four hits in a 2-0 squashing. It wasnt an overpowering performance but Lynch was solid, giving up just four hits and striking out four. The two bullpenners combined to hold the Tigers hitless in the final 1.1 innings. Though they came in hitting just .274, it could be argued that Clemson is one of the more dangerous lineups in the country but Lynch faced more than four batters in a single inning just once in the first seven frames of the game. Pavin Smiths solo home run in the seventh would be all the support the offense needed to provide.
The worst of the day in college baseball
1- Rice gets steamed twice.
Oi vey. Those poor Owls. Today saw Rice drop a pair of one-run games at Old Dominion, 6-5 and 3-2, dropping their overall record to a putrid 6-15. Both losses came after the Owls had grabbed leads mid-way through each game, but once again the bullpen couldnt hold off the charging Monarchs. Shockingly, its the pitching that has faltered for the Owls. After todays two losses, their arms corps is sporting a 5.28 team ERA and have issued 117 walks. Meanwhile, their offense has earned just 65 walks. Bright spot? Freshman RHP Matt Canterino set career-highs with 7.0 innings and 10 strikeouts in the first game..
2- East Carolina drops a pair to Mercer at home.
I had a sneaky suspicion that the Pirates might have been ranked a wee-bit too high in the preseason, living a little bit too much on their ride to the Super Regionals last year. Today might have been confirmation that ECU still has many rivers to cross to get back to the Supers as unheralded Mercer came into Clark-LeClair Stadium and won twice, 10-7 and 7-5. What makes it even more painful for the Pirates is the fact that they held late leads in both games, but gave up 10 combined runs in the 7th-8th-9th innings to the Bears to drop to 13-6. Mercer, on the other hand, improves to 16-4. Coach Craig Gibson called it probably one of the best days weve had in program history. Concerning the comeback abilities of his offense, Gibson said, Weve got a lot of fight in our dugout. Weve got guys with experience who have been through the battles before.
3- Texas A&M blanked at home.
There would be no #OlsenMagic for the No. 17-ranked Aggies as unranked Kentucky would open SEC play with a 6-0 blanking of the punchless Ags. The main culprit? UK starting hurler Sean Hjelle, who tossed a complete game four-hitter with nine Ks to subdue the Maroons the entire night. It was the first time the Aggies had been shut out in SEC play since the 2014 SEC tournament.
Dishonorable Mentions
For LSUs Alex Lange, the struggle is real.
As mentioned above the Tigers beat Georgia 22-9 with Leonard Fournette rushing for 212 yards and two TDs. But the understory was on the mound, where All American Alex Lange had another rough outing. This might be one of those cases of draft-year nerves for the big Tiger ace, but he has not been pitching it like the possible first pitcher taken in this Junes upcoming draft. Today it continued as he gave up eight runs on eight hits with four walks in 4.1 innings of work.
Another SEC ace gets aced.
Joining Lange in the bruised department today was Florida Friday man Alex Faedo, who was pock-marked for six runs on four hits with six walks in a 14-3 bloodletting at Auburn. Let me write that again, SIX walks for Faedo. Yikes, man. The 14 runs was the most Auburn had scored on Florida at Plainsman Park since 1972. Opposing ace Keegan Thompson for the Tigers went 6.1 innings and gave up just two hits and three runs with eight Ks.
The best of the day in college baseball
1- Ole Miss pitchers scoreless streak reaches 46 innings.
You might want to sit down for this one. The Ole Miss Rebels have now held their opponents scoreless in a school-record five straight games after todays 1-0 blanking of Vanderbilt at Swayze Field. David Parkinson went 6.0 innings and relievers Will Stokes and Dallas Woolfolk went 2.0 and 1.0 respectively to shut down the Dores with just three hits. Want an even more impressive statistic? In their last 66 innings (since going 0-and-3 at the Shriners Classic in Houston), the Rebs have given up just two runs, which came in the 11th inning of a 2-0 loss to Georgia State. On top of all that, Rebel starting pitchers have not allowed a run in seven straight games, a streak of 49.2 innings.
2- Oregon State gives the Devils no due.
Man alive. Im not sure anyone saw this coming. For the second night in a row the Beavers built a dam on the Arizona State offense, but this time they also added a sledgehammer offense, racing past the Devils by a very smelly 10-1 count. Starting pitcher Bryce Fehmel lasted 8.0 innings, giving up a run on just four hits and a walk. Grant Gambrell shut down the ninth inning, allowing one hit. That five-hitter combines with Thursday nights two-hitter in a 2-0 win to give the Devils seven hits and one run in 18 innings of play vs. the visiting Beavers. To be honest, I was looking at this weekend as a huge test for the Beavers since this was going to be their toughest atmosphere to go into so far this season, but after two straight wins, the Boys from Corvallis are now 16-1.
3- LSUs scoreboard lights up like a pinball machine.
Oh sure, it was *only* Georgia, but the Tiger bats went berserk in the 22-9 rout of the Bulldogs at Alex Box Stadium. Antoine Duplantis collected a program-best six hits in a 6-for-6 day that resulted in seven RBI. Oddly, only one of his hits was of the multi-base variety. Meanwhile, Kramer Robertson added five hits including a program-best three doubles. The 22 runs was the most the Purple and Gold had scored in an SEC game since 1998s 27-6 bloodletting of Arkansas.
Honorable Mentions
West Virginia hands Baylor a rare loss.
The Mountaineers improved to 9-7 with a surprising 7-1 squashing of the Baylor Bears in Waco. B.J. Myers had a great night, going 8.0 innings with just five hits surrendered and not a single walk on the night. Jackson Sigman posted a 1.0 inning of relief and teamed to hold BU to just six hits in the game. Offensively, Cole Austin lead the Mountaineer attack with three hits and Jackson Cramer and Ivan Gonzalez contributed with two hits each. The Bears drop to 15-3 suffering just their second home loss this season.
Those Oh-So-Tough Virginia Arms
UVa pitching coach Karl Kuhn doesnt accept crybabies. Thats why its not so shocking that Daniel Lynch, Alec Bettinger and Tommy Doyle went bravely into Doug Kingsmore Stadium and combined to hold Clemson to just four hits in a 2-0 squashing. It wasnt an overpowering performance but Lynch was solid, giving up just four hits and striking out four. The two bullpenners combined to hold the Tigers hitless in the final 1.1 innings. Though they came in hitting just .274, it could be argued that Clemson is one of the more dangerous lineups in the country but Lynch faced more than four batters in a single inning just once in the first seven frames of the game. Pavin Smiths solo home run in the seventh would be all the support the offense needed to provide.
The worst of the day in college baseball
1- Rice gets steamed twice.
Oi vey. Those poor Owls. Today saw Rice drop a pair of one-run games at Old Dominion, 6-5 and 3-2, dropping their overall record to a putrid 6-15. Both losses came after the Owls had grabbed leads mid-way through each game, but once again the bullpen couldnt hold off the charging Monarchs. Shockingly, its the pitching that has faltered for the Owls. After todays two losses, their arms corps is sporting a 5.28 team ERA and have issued 117 walks. Meanwhile, their offense has earned just 65 walks. Bright spot? Freshman RHP Matt Canterino set career-highs with 7.0 innings and 10 strikeouts in the first game..
2- East Carolina drops a pair to Mercer at home.
I had a sneaky suspicion that the Pirates might have been ranked a wee-bit too high in the preseason, living a little bit too much on their ride to the Super Regionals last year. Today might have been confirmation that ECU still has many rivers to cross to get back to the Supers as unheralded Mercer came into Clark-LeClair Stadium and won twice, 10-7 and 7-5. What makes it even more painful for the Pirates is the fact that they held late leads in both games, but gave up 10 combined runs in the 7th-8th-9th innings to the Bears to drop to 13-6. Mercer, on the other hand, improves to 16-4. Coach Craig Gibson called it probably one of the best days weve had in program history. Concerning the comeback abilities of his offense, Gibson said, Weve got a lot of fight in our dugout. Weve got guys with experience who have been through the battles before.
3- Texas A&M blanked at home.
There would be no #OlsenMagic for the No. 17-ranked Aggies as unranked Kentucky would open SEC play with a 6-0 blanking of the punchless Ags. The main culprit? UK starting hurler Sean Hjelle, who tossed a complete game four-hitter with nine Ks to subdue the Maroons the entire night. It was the first time the Aggies had been shut out in SEC play since the 2014 SEC tournament.
Dishonorable Mentions
For LSUs Alex Lange, the struggle is real.
As mentioned above the Tigers beat Georgia 22-9 with Leonard Fournette rushing for 212 yards and two TDs. But the understory was on the mound, where All American Alex Lange had another rough outing. This might be one of those cases of draft-year nerves for the big Tiger ace, but he has not been pitching it like the possible first pitcher taken in this Junes upcoming draft. Today it continued as he gave up eight runs on eight hits with four walks in 4.1 innings of work.
Another SEC ace gets aced.
Joining Lange in the bruised department today was Florida Friday man Alex Faedo, who was pock-marked for six runs on four hits with six walks in a 14-3 bloodletting at Auburn. Let me write that again, SIX walks for Faedo. Yikes, man. The 14 runs was the most Auburn had scored on Florida at Plainsman Park since 1972. Opposing ace Keegan Thompson for the Tigers went 6.1 innings and gave up just two hits and three runs with eight Ks.
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D1 Baseball Top 25, 3/20/17
1 Oregon State 17-1 3-0 2
2 Louisville 19-0 4-0 4
3 Texas Tech 17-4 3-1 6
4 TCU 14-5 2-2 3
5 LSU 17-5 4-1 7
6 Cal State Fullerton 14-5 5-0 10
7 Clemson 16-4 4-1 13
8 South Carolina 14-5 3-0 8
9 Arizona 15-4 2-2 9
10 North Carolina 15-5 3-1 11
11 Florida 13-8 1-3 5
12 Stanford 11-5 0-0 12
13 Florida State 14-7 1-4 1
14 Ole Miss 14-6 3-1 16
15 Florida Gulf Coast 18-3 4-0 22
16 UL Lafayette 11-6 2-2 15
17 St. John's 14-2 2-0 19
18 Michigan 15-4 3-1 21
19 Kentucky 15-6 4-0 NR
20 Auburn 17-4 4-0 NR
21 Virginia 15-5 2-2 14
22 Baylor 16-4 2-2 20
23 San Diego 13-4 3-1 25
24 Missouri 19-1 4-0 NR
25 Oklahoma 21-3 4-1 NR
Dropped Out
Texas A&M 14-7 0-4 17
East Carolina 13-7 1-3 18
Coastal Carolina 12-9 1-2 23
Vanderbilt 13-8 2-2 24
1 Oregon State 17-1 3-0 2
2 Louisville 19-0 4-0 4
3 Texas Tech 17-4 3-1 6
4 TCU 14-5 2-2 3
5 LSU 17-5 4-1 7
6 Cal State Fullerton 14-5 5-0 10
7 Clemson 16-4 4-1 13
8 South Carolina 14-5 3-0 8
9 Arizona 15-4 2-2 9
10 North Carolina 15-5 3-1 11
11 Florida 13-8 1-3 5
12 Stanford 11-5 0-0 12
13 Florida State 14-7 1-4 1
14 Ole Miss 14-6 3-1 16
15 Florida Gulf Coast 18-3 4-0 22
16 UL Lafayette 11-6 2-2 15
17 St. John's 14-2 2-0 19
18 Michigan 15-4 3-1 21
19 Kentucky 15-6 4-0 NR
20 Auburn 17-4 4-0 NR
21 Virginia 15-5 2-2 14
22 Baylor 16-4 2-2 20
23 San Diego 13-4 3-1 25
24 Missouri 19-1 4-0 NR
25 Oklahoma 21-3 4-1 NR
Dropped Out
Texas A&M 14-7 0-4 17
East Carolina 13-7 1-3 18
Coastal Carolina 12-9 1-2 23
Vanderbilt 13-8 2-2 24
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Week Five: What We Learned
ANALYSIS Kendall Rogers - March 20, 2017
1 Oregon State is the nations best team
Yes, you can make an argument for Louisville right now, but give me the Beavers, who have played a much tougher schedule to-date. The Beavers hit the road over the weekend to begin Pac-12 play against Arizona State, a team which impressed me offensively against TCU a few weeks ago in Fort Worth. Well, that offense was non-existent over the weekend, thanks to OSUs premier pitching. The Beavers, who now have an insanely low 1.06 staff ERA, silenced the Sun Devils for one, yes, one run, in three games. OSU continues to get contributions from its pitchers, but the rise of Luke Heimlich, Bryce Fehmel and especially Jake Thompson is the biggest key. Heimlich has a 0.25 ERA in 36.2 innings, along with 44 strikeouts and five walks, while Fehmel has a 2.00 ERA and Thompson has a 1.08 ERA in 33.1 innings. The Beavers also are salty offensively, where theyre hitting .293 with super sophomore Nick Madrigal hitting .426 with three homers and 11 RBIs. Next weekends home series against Arizona will be a dandy and our Frankie Piliere will be in the house for the heavyweight bout.
2 George Hortons Ducks look formidable
While the Beavers are getting all the headlines in Oregon, and rightfully so, the Ducks are quietly putting together a solid campaign, sitting at 13-5 after taking two of three from California over the weekend. The Ducks are now winners of nine of their last 10 games and continue to get strong performances from their pitching staff. For instance, lefty David Peterson struck out eight, walked one and allowed nine hits in six shutout innings this past weekend, while Matt Mercer had a gritty outing followed by a pair of solid bullpen performances. The most surprising thing against Cal was Oregons offense, which totaled 20 runs the first two games. Funny note about the Ducks (and Beavers): Last year, I was scheduled to cover the series between the Ducks and Beavers, but it ended up being such a meaningless series that I cancelled the trip. This year, it could be at its absolute best.
3 Texas might be close, but its not there yet
I said earlier this week the Longhorns had a chance to make a huge statement on the national stage. The Horns took care of the first prong earlier this week with a midweek win over Texas A&M, albeit the Aggies are playing less than stellar baseball right now. But this past weekend, the Longhorns dropped all three games to Texas Tech. How razor thin was the margin, though? UT dropped the first two games 2-1 and the series finale, 8-5, in a game that Tech seemed to have control of most of the way. Simply put, the Longhorns need to get healthy and start doing the little things right. The Horns are still without Zane Gurwitz and Patrick Mathis, who are out with injuries for the next few weeks, while they had small lapses and miscues that cost them against the Red Raiders. UT looks like a definite regional team to me, but sitting at 13-9 with a rugged conference slate, it needs to start doing the little things right.
4 Rice likely will not make the postseason
Yes, its college baseball, and crazy things can happen in our sport. But the Owls would need a miraculous turnaround to make the postseason at this point. Rice hit the road over the weekend and was swept by surging Old Dominion. As a result, the Owls are now 6-16 with FIU, Florida Atlantic, Louisiana Tech and Southern Miss the next four weekends. If its not one thing, its something else for the Owls right now. Rice actually pitched well enough over the weekend to take the series from the Monarchs, but the offense couldnt get into a groove. Its amazing to say this, but it might just be the conference tournament or bust for the Owls, who havent missed the postseason since 1994. Some point to Utah last season as a reason for hope for the Owls. However, remember that the Utes won the Pac-12 automatic bid via the the regular season title and still finished with an RPI of 90.
5 Louisvilles Brendan McKay is on another level
The Cardinals havent played the toughest schedule so far, ranked in the 200s from a SOS standpoint. However, dont let that schedule deter you from the bonkers season the two-way star is putting together. McKay had another strong start on the mound this past weekend, striking out 12, walking one and allowing just five hits in seven shutout innings in a win. But its what hes doing at the plate this spring thats most impressive. McKay is hitting .481 with four homers and 17 RBIs, along with a .759 slugging percentage and yes, a .592 on-base percentage. Saying those numbers are loud would be quite an understatement.
6 Kentucky is the real deal
The Wildcats entered the season as a team we considered for the D1Baseball Top 25. UK fell just short of a preseason ranking, but joined the fold this week for good reason. I must admit, I was really impressed with the Wildcats this past Friday against Texas A&M. Even without Evan White (hamstring) and T.J. Collett (coming back from a knee injury), the Wildcats showed a mature offensive approach and had their way with the A&M pitching staff. Furthermore, Sean Hjelle and Zach Logue put together strong starts, while Justin Lewis allowed just three runs in 6.1 innings in the series finale. UK has some balance and will only get better once White and Collett can return to the lineup. Nick Mingione and his staff could have something special with this group.
7 Florida has some serious offensive issues
So, the Gators struggled offensively the past few weeks, but we were willing to give them a mulligan with the assumption theyd start putting things together to begin SEC play at Auburn. Well, that didnt happen as the Gators scored nine runs in three games in an 0-3 weekend against the Tigers. With LSU on the horizon, UF is now hitting .240 as a team, which sits at the bottom of the conference. Furthermore, JJ Schwarz continues to struggle with an average around .200, while Dalton Guthrie dropped below .300 and Jonathan India, who looked good at times over the weekend, is now hitting .267. LSU provides a stiff test for Florida this weekend. While the Gators possess three weapon arms in Faedo, Singer and Kowar, the Tigers will find ways to score some runs. That again puts pressure on UFs offense going against to stud duo of Alex Lange and Jared Poche.
8 Tennessee is better, but still has work to do
The Vols made a statement with a strong 12-2 start to the season and had hoped to make their strongest statement to date this weekend against South Carolina. However, things didnt go as planned for Dave Serranos club, as they got swept at home by the Gamecocks, who were without two of their best assets in righthanders Clarke Schmidt and Tyler Johnson. The Vols were limited to seven runs in three games, while the bullpen faltered in the first two games and starting pitcher Will Neely allowed five runs on six hits in four innings in the series finale. Were not about making brash judgements after one series, but the Vols need to bounce back this weekend against struggling Mississippi State.
9 Southern Miss could be Conference USAs elite club
Scott Berrys Golden Eagles had a strong 2016 campaign, but had some holes to fill entering this season. Well, they were still supposed to be a quality club with a strong chance to reach the postseason. However, there were some definite unknowns. USM dropped a tough and hard-fought non-conference series against UL Lafayette a few weeks ago, but have been terrific since, sweeping red-hot Louisiana Tech on the road this past weekend. Freshman Matt Wallner, who originally signed with North Dakota (it has since dropped the program), has been quite the infusion, hitting over .300 at the plate, while also having an unblemished ERA in 9.2 innings of work, along with a fastball up to 94-95 mph. Nick Sandlin, as usual, has been a weapon on the back-end, too, with a perfect ERA in 15.2 innings, along with 25 strikeouts and six walks.
10 Florida States pitching is far from a finished product
At least the Seminoles were ranked No. 1 for a week, right? FSU celebrates its top billing last week with an ugly trip up north to face Virginia Tech. FSU began the weekend in dominant fashion with a 9-2 win over the Hokies, but was atrocious on the mound the rest of the weekend. For instance, Tyler Holton allowed six runs and six hits in 3.2 innings in Game Two, while Drew Parrish allowed seven runs on eight hits in 5.1 innings in the series finale. While FSUs offense did nothing in the finale, the more troubling aspect to me is the fact FSU allowed 31 runs the final two games. That needs to improve this week, as the Noles get ready for a tougher than youd expect series against bruised up Notre Dame.
ANALYSIS Kendall Rogers - March 20, 2017
1 Oregon State is the nations best team
Yes, you can make an argument for Louisville right now, but give me the Beavers, who have played a much tougher schedule to-date. The Beavers hit the road over the weekend to begin Pac-12 play against Arizona State, a team which impressed me offensively against TCU a few weeks ago in Fort Worth. Well, that offense was non-existent over the weekend, thanks to OSUs premier pitching. The Beavers, who now have an insanely low 1.06 staff ERA, silenced the Sun Devils for one, yes, one run, in three games. OSU continues to get contributions from its pitchers, but the rise of Luke Heimlich, Bryce Fehmel and especially Jake Thompson is the biggest key. Heimlich has a 0.25 ERA in 36.2 innings, along with 44 strikeouts and five walks, while Fehmel has a 2.00 ERA and Thompson has a 1.08 ERA in 33.1 innings. The Beavers also are salty offensively, where theyre hitting .293 with super sophomore Nick Madrigal hitting .426 with three homers and 11 RBIs. Next weekends home series against Arizona will be a dandy and our Frankie Piliere will be in the house for the heavyweight bout.
2 George Hortons Ducks look formidable
While the Beavers are getting all the headlines in Oregon, and rightfully so, the Ducks are quietly putting together a solid campaign, sitting at 13-5 after taking two of three from California over the weekend. The Ducks are now winners of nine of their last 10 games and continue to get strong performances from their pitching staff. For instance, lefty David Peterson struck out eight, walked one and allowed nine hits in six shutout innings this past weekend, while Matt Mercer had a gritty outing followed by a pair of solid bullpen performances. The most surprising thing against Cal was Oregons offense, which totaled 20 runs the first two games. Funny note about the Ducks (and Beavers): Last year, I was scheduled to cover the series between the Ducks and Beavers, but it ended up being such a meaningless series that I cancelled the trip. This year, it could be at its absolute best.
3 Texas might be close, but its not there yet
I said earlier this week the Longhorns had a chance to make a huge statement on the national stage. The Horns took care of the first prong earlier this week with a midweek win over Texas A&M, albeit the Aggies are playing less than stellar baseball right now. But this past weekend, the Longhorns dropped all three games to Texas Tech. How razor thin was the margin, though? UT dropped the first two games 2-1 and the series finale, 8-5, in a game that Tech seemed to have control of most of the way. Simply put, the Longhorns need to get healthy and start doing the little things right. The Horns are still without Zane Gurwitz and Patrick Mathis, who are out with injuries for the next few weeks, while they had small lapses and miscues that cost them against the Red Raiders. UT looks like a definite regional team to me, but sitting at 13-9 with a rugged conference slate, it needs to start doing the little things right.
4 Rice likely will not make the postseason
Yes, its college baseball, and crazy things can happen in our sport. But the Owls would need a miraculous turnaround to make the postseason at this point. Rice hit the road over the weekend and was swept by surging Old Dominion. As a result, the Owls are now 6-16 with FIU, Florida Atlantic, Louisiana Tech and Southern Miss the next four weekends. If its not one thing, its something else for the Owls right now. Rice actually pitched well enough over the weekend to take the series from the Monarchs, but the offense couldnt get into a groove. Its amazing to say this, but it might just be the conference tournament or bust for the Owls, who havent missed the postseason since 1994. Some point to Utah last season as a reason for hope for the Owls. However, remember that the Utes won the Pac-12 automatic bid via the the regular season title and still finished with an RPI of 90.
5 Louisvilles Brendan McKay is on another level
The Cardinals havent played the toughest schedule so far, ranked in the 200s from a SOS standpoint. However, dont let that schedule deter you from the bonkers season the two-way star is putting together. McKay had another strong start on the mound this past weekend, striking out 12, walking one and allowing just five hits in seven shutout innings in a win. But its what hes doing at the plate this spring thats most impressive. McKay is hitting .481 with four homers and 17 RBIs, along with a .759 slugging percentage and yes, a .592 on-base percentage. Saying those numbers are loud would be quite an understatement.
6 Kentucky is the real deal
The Wildcats entered the season as a team we considered for the D1Baseball Top 25. UK fell just short of a preseason ranking, but joined the fold this week for good reason. I must admit, I was really impressed with the Wildcats this past Friday against Texas A&M. Even without Evan White (hamstring) and T.J. Collett (coming back from a knee injury), the Wildcats showed a mature offensive approach and had their way with the A&M pitching staff. Furthermore, Sean Hjelle and Zach Logue put together strong starts, while Justin Lewis allowed just three runs in 6.1 innings in the series finale. UK has some balance and will only get better once White and Collett can return to the lineup. Nick Mingione and his staff could have something special with this group.
7 Florida has some serious offensive issues
So, the Gators struggled offensively the past few weeks, but we were willing to give them a mulligan with the assumption theyd start putting things together to begin SEC play at Auburn. Well, that didnt happen as the Gators scored nine runs in three games in an 0-3 weekend against the Tigers. With LSU on the horizon, UF is now hitting .240 as a team, which sits at the bottom of the conference. Furthermore, JJ Schwarz continues to struggle with an average around .200, while Dalton Guthrie dropped below .300 and Jonathan India, who looked good at times over the weekend, is now hitting .267. LSU provides a stiff test for Florida this weekend. While the Gators possess three weapon arms in Faedo, Singer and Kowar, the Tigers will find ways to score some runs. That again puts pressure on UFs offense going against to stud duo of Alex Lange and Jared Poche.
8 Tennessee is better, but still has work to do
The Vols made a statement with a strong 12-2 start to the season and had hoped to make their strongest statement to date this weekend against South Carolina. However, things didnt go as planned for Dave Serranos club, as they got swept at home by the Gamecocks, who were without two of their best assets in righthanders Clarke Schmidt and Tyler Johnson. The Vols were limited to seven runs in three games, while the bullpen faltered in the first two games and starting pitcher Will Neely allowed five runs on six hits in four innings in the series finale. Were not about making brash judgements after one series, but the Vols need to bounce back this weekend against struggling Mississippi State.
9 Southern Miss could be Conference USAs elite club
Scott Berrys Golden Eagles had a strong 2016 campaign, but had some holes to fill entering this season. Well, they were still supposed to be a quality club with a strong chance to reach the postseason. However, there were some definite unknowns. USM dropped a tough and hard-fought non-conference series against UL Lafayette a few weeks ago, but have been terrific since, sweeping red-hot Louisiana Tech on the road this past weekend. Freshman Matt Wallner, who originally signed with North Dakota (it has since dropped the program), has been quite the infusion, hitting over .300 at the plate, while also having an unblemished ERA in 9.2 innings of work, along with a fastball up to 94-95 mph. Nick Sandlin, as usual, has been a weapon on the back-end, too, with a perfect ERA in 15.2 innings, along with 25 strikeouts and six walks.
10 Florida States pitching is far from a finished product
At least the Seminoles were ranked No. 1 for a week, right? FSU celebrates its top billing last week with an ugly trip up north to face Virginia Tech. FSU began the weekend in dominant fashion with a 9-2 win over the Hokies, but was atrocious on the mound the rest of the weekend. For instance, Tyler Holton allowed six runs and six hits in 3.2 innings in Game Two, while Drew Parrish allowed seven runs on eight hits in 5.1 innings in the series finale. While FSUs offense did nothing in the finale, the more troubling aspect to me is the fact FSU allowed 31 runs the final two games. That needs to improve this week, as the Noles get ready for a tougher than youd expect series against bruised up Notre Dame.
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Teams on the Upswing - Week 5
D1 Baseball.com
Tennessee Tech
Is there a surprise team in the Ohio Valley? Before the season, the debate at the top of the league was between Austin Peay and Jacksonville State. However, the Golden Eagles are sizzling hot, winners of eight-straight and are an impressive 9-0 in league play after hitting the road and sweeping Austin Peay over the weekend.
And how about hard-hitting Kevin Strohschien? Hes been a consistent contributor for the Eagles thus far, hitting .291 with eight doubles, five homers and 29 RBIs, but hes very much down the list of the teams top hitters. Yeah, theyre that hot right now. Ryan Flick is the name to remember as the season progresses. Flick leads the team by far with a .429 average, while already smacking a ridiculous 17 doubles, hitting seven homers and knocking in 32 runs. Meanwhile, Chase Chambers and Chris Brown each have seven homers, Matt Jones has five and Collin Harris leads the team with eight homers and 22 RBIs, and oh yeah, a solid .347 average.
Tech certainly leaves a little something to be desired on the mound, but there are some quality arms to watch. For instance, reliever Ethan Roberts has bene solid, tallying 22 strikeouts and just four walks in nine appearances and 18.2 innings, while Michael Wood (5.17) is coming off a good start at APSU, where he struck out seven, walked one and allowed two runs on seven hits in seven innings.
Memphis
With several teams from the American Athletic Conference doing well this season, the league race should be outstanding. Memphis is one of those teams to watch. The Tigers might not have the sparkle of some other AAC contenders, but this is a quality team riding high after winning eight of their last nine games. They hope to ride that momentum into the next two weekends, as they have telling road series against Cincinnati and Connecticut.
On the mound, the Tigers have a trio of quality starting pitchers in Connor Alexander, Alex Hicks and Drew Crosby. Crosby has tallied the most impressive numbers thus far, striking out 27 and having a 3.16 ERA in 31.1 innings, while Alexander is a high-quality Sunday guy, tallying 31 strikeouts versus five walks and having a 3.67 ERA in 34.1 innings. Theres also Hicks, who has a 3.62 ERA in 32.1 innings.
The Tigers also have some weapons on the back-end of the bullpen, namely Blake Bennett (1.80 ERA, 15 IP) and flamethrower Colton Hathcock, who has 23 strikeouts in just 14.2 innings.
If you had to point to one negative about this team, its that they arent going to wear many teams out offensively, but that doesnt mean there arent some quality hitters. For instance, Andy Bowman is hitting .348 with two homers and 18 RBIs, while Tyler Webb is hitting .344 with five doubles. Though he hasnt been ultra-consistent at the plate, Brandon Grudzielanek needs to remembered. Hes got some pop in his bat and has four doubles and four homers.
FWIW, we made the "Ouch List" for the 2nd straight week....
D1 Baseball.com
Tennessee Tech
Is there a surprise team in the Ohio Valley? Before the season, the debate at the top of the league was between Austin Peay and Jacksonville State. However, the Golden Eagles are sizzling hot, winners of eight-straight and are an impressive 9-0 in league play after hitting the road and sweeping Austin Peay over the weekend.
And how about hard-hitting Kevin Strohschien? Hes been a consistent contributor for the Eagles thus far, hitting .291 with eight doubles, five homers and 29 RBIs, but hes very much down the list of the teams top hitters. Yeah, theyre that hot right now. Ryan Flick is the name to remember as the season progresses. Flick leads the team by far with a .429 average, while already smacking a ridiculous 17 doubles, hitting seven homers and knocking in 32 runs. Meanwhile, Chase Chambers and Chris Brown each have seven homers, Matt Jones has five and Collin Harris leads the team with eight homers and 22 RBIs, and oh yeah, a solid .347 average.
Tech certainly leaves a little something to be desired on the mound, but there are some quality arms to watch. For instance, reliever Ethan Roberts has bene solid, tallying 22 strikeouts and just four walks in nine appearances and 18.2 innings, while Michael Wood (5.17) is coming off a good start at APSU, where he struck out seven, walked one and allowed two runs on seven hits in seven innings.
Memphis
With several teams from the American Athletic Conference doing well this season, the league race should be outstanding. Memphis is one of those teams to watch. The Tigers might not have the sparkle of some other AAC contenders, but this is a quality team riding high after winning eight of their last nine games. They hope to ride that momentum into the next two weekends, as they have telling road series against Cincinnati and Connecticut.
On the mound, the Tigers have a trio of quality starting pitchers in Connor Alexander, Alex Hicks and Drew Crosby. Crosby has tallied the most impressive numbers thus far, striking out 27 and having a 3.16 ERA in 31.1 innings, while Alexander is a high-quality Sunday guy, tallying 31 strikeouts versus five walks and having a 3.67 ERA in 34.1 innings. Theres also Hicks, who has a 3.62 ERA in 32.1 innings.
The Tigers also have some weapons on the back-end of the bullpen, namely Blake Bennett (1.80 ERA, 15 IP) and flamethrower Colton Hathcock, who has 23 strikeouts in just 14.2 innings.
If you had to point to one negative about this team, its that they arent going to wear many teams out offensively, but that doesnt mean there arent some quality hitters. For instance, Andy Bowman is hitting .348 with two homers and 18 RBIs, while Tyler Webb is hitting .344 with five doubles. Though he hasnt been ultra-consistent at the plate, Brandon Grudzielanek needs to remembered. Hes got some pop in his bat and has four doubles and four homers.
FWIW, we made the "Ouch List" for the 2nd straight week....
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4/3/17 Top 25 - D1 Baseball.com
1 Oregon State 24-1 4-0 1
2 Louisville 24-3 3-1 2
3 TCU 22-5 5-0 4
4 Clemson 24-5 4-1 5
5 North Carolina 22-6 4-0 8
6 Texas Tech 25-6 3-2 3
7 Florida 20-9 4-0 9
8 Kentucky 21-8 3-1 16
9 Arizona 20-7 4-0 13
10 Cal State Fullerton 17-10 2-2 10
11 Auburn 23-7 3-1 17
12 South Carolina 19-8 2-2 7
13 LSU 19-10 1-3 6
14 St. John's 21-2 3-0 15
15 Arkansas 22-6 2-1 20
16 Oklahoma 25-6 2-1 24
17 Southern Miss 24-5 5-0 25
18 Michigan 22-6 5-0 22
19 San Diego 19-6 4-0 23
20 Florida Gulf Coast 24-5 2-2 14
21 Stanford 14-9 1-3 11
22 Florida State 18-11 0-4 12
23 Wake Forest 21-8 3-1 NR
24 Maryland 18-8 3-0 NR
25 Virginia 21-8 2-2 18
Dropped Out
Ole Miss 16-12 1-3 19
UL Lafayette 16-12 2-3 21
1 Oregon State 24-1 4-0 1
2 Louisville 24-3 3-1 2
3 TCU 22-5 5-0 4
4 Clemson 24-5 4-1 5
5 North Carolina 22-6 4-0 8
6 Texas Tech 25-6 3-2 3
7 Florida 20-9 4-0 9
8 Kentucky 21-8 3-1 16
9 Arizona 20-7 4-0 13
10 Cal State Fullerton 17-10 2-2 10
11 Auburn 23-7 3-1 17
12 South Carolina 19-8 2-2 7
13 LSU 19-10 1-3 6
14 St. John's 21-2 3-0 15
15 Arkansas 22-6 2-1 20
16 Oklahoma 25-6 2-1 24
17 Southern Miss 24-5 5-0 25
18 Michigan 22-6 5-0 22
19 San Diego 19-6 4-0 23
20 Florida Gulf Coast 24-5 2-2 14
21 Stanford 14-9 1-3 11
22 Florida State 18-11 0-4 12
23 Wake Forest 21-8 3-1 NR
24 Maryland 18-8 3-0 NR
25 Virginia 21-8 2-2 18
Dropped Out
Ole Miss 16-12 1-3 19
UL Lafayette 16-12 2-3 21
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http://bleacherreport.com/articles/...om&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=editorial
Long, but good read.
Long, but good read.
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well worth the read for anyone who has dreams of making it big in professional sports....also for parents of the 12-year old stud on the ball-field this weekend...
Having seen firsthand the struggles of playing in the minors, I would encourage anyone who has the opportunity to take the chance and give it a shot. With that said, you have to be realistic and know when to move on, which is a very difficult come to Jesus meeting with yourself and family.
Not sure if I like the idea of unionizing MiLB. They system is designed to weed out 2-3 year guys and bring in fresh talent. Sort of like the golf mini tours, your not suppose to be able to make a very good living unless you make it to the top. A harsh reality of "professional life" in any profession.
Without getting into a debate, this is why an education is so important coming out of High School. Only a small percentage of professional athletes can earn enough playing professionally to sustain themselves and their family for an extended amount of time.
God bless anyone who has an opportunity to live the dream, just realize when its time to move on......just like I've done with several career changes over the years!
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THE OUCH LIST, 4/23/17
Great Magillicuddy. It was NOT a good week to be a ranked team. The only team in the entire Top 25 to come away with an unbeaten week was St. Johns. And the carnage in the top 10 was particularly brutal as seven of them were laced with two losses or more. Only Oregon State, TCU and Kentucky were spared with only one loss of all the top 10 teams.
So that made this weeks Ouch List pretty easy, to be honest. Without further ado, and with a fully loaded first aid kit, lets get on board the Pain Train and see where it takes us this time.
The Ouch List
Arizona
What Happened: Lost three straight to Utah at home.
Why It Hurts: Eeeeesh! Almost too painful to say.
Every one is allowed one bad weekend a year, right? Well this was it for the Desert Cats. Granted, Utah is pulling a Utah again this year, being a team that is better than its record. But still, the Cats should not have lost thrice to this team, especially at home. In the words of Alice In Chains, no excuses. In case you didnt notice, the Cats saw their RPI plummet from being stuck for weeks at No. 2 down to No. 8. Another weekend like this and theyll be hitting the road in June, despite our thinking they were going to be a lock to host.
LSU pitching
What Happened: Lost two of three at Kentucky
Why It Hurts: Because their aces came up snake eyes this weekend.
Any other weekend im sure no one would bat an eye over LSU going 1-and-2 at Kentucky, but its HOW they performed on the mound that is most troubling. The three starting pitchers Jared Poche, Alex Lange and Eric Walker combined to last 11.0 innings, giving up 15 runs on 21 hits with 11 walks. For the entire weekend, LSU pitching gave up 25 runs on 42 hits with a stunning 22 walks and just 16 strikeouts. Dang.
Minnesota
What Happened: Dropped two of three to Nebraska
Why It Hurts: Dropped out of first place in the Big 10
Normally I wouldnt include a team on the Ouch List for losing to another team who is pretty good and well within consideration for an at-large bid in the NCAA tournament. But this was a pretty bad double-whammy for the Gophers this weekend. They dropped two of three games to Nebraska, by a 5-4 score on Friday and a 9-4 score on Sunday. Because of this series loss, The U loses its grip on first place in the Big 10 and worse yet, sees the RPI ranking drop from a manageable No. 48 down to No. 65. Their upcoming two games against No. 249 Northern Illinois isnt going to help either.
Southern Miss
What Happened: Went 1-3 this week, including losing two of three to Old Dominion
Why It Hurts: Because their mound confidence could be waning.
Like LSU above, it wasnt that the Eagles lost to Tulane and Old Dominion, it was the dubious amount of poor pitching that stuck out as all three losses this week were by football scores. In their three losses the Eagles used 18 pitchers who allowed 32 runs, 43 hits and 14 walks. Also, this may have been academic before this weekend, but they probably lost any hopes for a home Regional this weekend as well. Remaining schedule may not be enough of an RPI boost.
Alabama
What Happened: Lost three straight at Mississippi State
Why It Hurts: All three games were lost by one run. Arrrrrrgh.
This is painful. At 15-25 and 2-16, its not as if the Crimson Tides season wasnt painful enough to begin with. Now, we see the Tide lose 6-5, 4-3 and 13-12 in Starkville. In game one, the Tide had the tying run 90 feet away when the final out was recorded. In games two and three, the Tide had leads in both of them, including a five-run lead in the sixth inning and three-run lead in the 11th inning in game three but eventually lost it in 13 innings.
Oregon
What Happened: Swept in three games by Stanford.
Why It Hurts: The Ducks have migrated to the outside-looking-in of college baseball
Since last Fridays impressive 8-4 win at Arizona, the Ducks have wobbled, losing five straight games, including three straight this weekend at home to Stanford. Prior to that weekend in Arizona, UO was ranked No. 36 in the RPI. After the last six games, and those five losses, the Ducks now sit way down at No. 60. Sure, last year they got into the NCAA tournament with an RPI in the 60s, but this years squad now has a losing mark in Pac 12 play at 6-9. That must change.
Cal State Fullerton
What Happened: Went 1-3 this week
Why It Hurts: Because the human polls might start emulating the computers
The Titans have had a spot in the top 10 of the D1baseball.com rankings since early March, despite not having the sexiest won-loss mark. You know the Titans have been given the benefit of the doubt with their usual brutal scheduling. But that top-flight ranking could be in jeopardy after losing a mid-week to San Diego and losing two of three at Cal Poly. The RPI currently sits at No. 32, which you would think is well outside of Regional host consideration.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
What Happened: Swept by Cal in Bereley
Why It Hurts: Because of a dude named Andrew Vaughn
Poor Bryce Dydra. Hes the Trojans reliever who served up a pair of jog-off home runs to Cal Super Frosh Andrew Vaughn on both Friday night and Sunday afternoon. Fridays 13-9 loss came when Vaughns opposite field charge cleared the fence for a grand slam. On Sunday, in the 10th inning, Vaughn took another Dydra offering over the left field wall for a two-run dinger, giving the Bears an 8-6 win. USC is now on a 3-11 skid since starting the season 15-9. Also, even more damming, the Trojans saw their RPI ranking drop from within striking distance at No. 62 down to No. 99 in the past week. Aye-yaye-yaye.
Dartmouth
What Happened: Swept in a doubleheader at Yale.
Why It Hurts: No Ivy League Playoffs for what looked to be the overwhelming favorites
Remember the Big Green from earlier this year? They were the team that came down from the snows of New Hampshire and beat both Miami and UCF in weekend series? Ugh, that team will probably not raise its head to our national conscience again as Sundays two losses to Yale put them four games behind the Bulldogs with six games left to play. Its unlikely theyll be able to catch Yale in the Red Rolfe Division of the Ivy League standings. As you know the two division winners face off in the playoffs to advance to the NCAA tournament.
we made the list 2 or 3 consecutive weeks a while back, then the expectations completely fell off the table.....
Great Magillicuddy. It was NOT a good week to be a ranked team. The only team in the entire Top 25 to come away with an unbeaten week was St. Johns. And the carnage in the top 10 was particularly brutal as seven of them were laced with two losses or more. Only Oregon State, TCU and Kentucky were spared with only one loss of all the top 10 teams.
So that made this weeks Ouch List pretty easy, to be honest. Without further ado, and with a fully loaded first aid kit, lets get on board the Pain Train and see where it takes us this time.
The Ouch List
Arizona
What Happened: Lost three straight to Utah at home.
Why It Hurts: Eeeeesh! Almost too painful to say.
Every one is allowed one bad weekend a year, right? Well this was it for the Desert Cats. Granted, Utah is pulling a Utah again this year, being a team that is better than its record. But still, the Cats should not have lost thrice to this team, especially at home. In the words of Alice In Chains, no excuses. In case you didnt notice, the Cats saw their RPI plummet from being stuck for weeks at No. 2 down to No. 8. Another weekend like this and theyll be hitting the road in June, despite our thinking they were going to be a lock to host.
LSU pitching
What Happened: Lost two of three at Kentucky
Why It Hurts: Because their aces came up snake eyes this weekend.
Any other weekend im sure no one would bat an eye over LSU going 1-and-2 at Kentucky, but its HOW they performed on the mound that is most troubling. The three starting pitchers Jared Poche, Alex Lange and Eric Walker combined to last 11.0 innings, giving up 15 runs on 21 hits with 11 walks. For the entire weekend, LSU pitching gave up 25 runs on 42 hits with a stunning 22 walks and just 16 strikeouts. Dang.
Minnesota
What Happened: Dropped two of three to Nebraska
Why It Hurts: Dropped out of first place in the Big 10
Normally I wouldnt include a team on the Ouch List for losing to another team who is pretty good and well within consideration for an at-large bid in the NCAA tournament. But this was a pretty bad double-whammy for the Gophers this weekend. They dropped two of three games to Nebraska, by a 5-4 score on Friday and a 9-4 score on Sunday. Because of this series loss, The U loses its grip on first place in the Big 10 and worse yet, sees the RPI ranking drop from a manageable No. 48 down to No. 65. Their upcoming two games against No. 249 Northern Illinois isnt going to help either.
Southern Miss
What Happened: Went 1-3 this week, including losing two of three to Old Dominion
Why It Hurts: Because their mound confidence could be waning.
Like LSU above, it wasnt that the Eagles lost to Tulane and Old Dominion, it was the dubious amount of poor pitching that stuck out as all three losses this week were by football scores. In their three losses the Eagles used 18 pitchers who allowed 32 runs, 43 hits and 14 walks. Also, this may have been academic before this weekend, but they probably lost any hopes for a home Regional this weekend as well. Remaining schedule may not be enough of an RPI boost.
Alabama
What Happened: Lost three straight at Mississippi State
Why It Hurts: All three games were lost by one run. Arrrrrrgh.
This is painful. At 15-25 and 2-16, its not as if the Crimson Tides season wasnt painful enough to begin with. Now, we see the Tide lose 6-5, 4-3 and 13-12 in Starkville. In game one, the Tide had the tying run 90 feet away when the final out was recorded. In games two and three, the Tide had leads in both of them, including a five-run lead in the sixth inning and three-run lead in the 11th inning in game three but eventually lost it in 13 innings.
Oregon
What Happened: Swept in three games by Stanford.
Why It Hurts: The Ducks have migrated to the outside-looking-in of college baseball
Since last Fridays impressive 8-4 win at Arizona, the Ducks have wobbled, losing five straight games, including three straight this weekend at home to Stanford. Prior to that weekend in Arizona, UO was ranked No. 36 in the RPI. After the last six games, and those five losses, the Ducks now sit way down at No. 60. Sure, last year they got into the NCAA tournament with an RPI in the 60s, but this years squad now has a losing mark in Pac 12 play at 6-9. That must change.
Cal State Fullerton
What Happened: Went 1-3 this week
Why It Hurts: Because the human polls might start emulating the computers
The Titans have had a spot in the top 10 of the D1baseball.com rankings since early March, despite not having the sexiest won-loss mark. You know the Titans have been given the benefit of the doubt with their usual brutal scheduling. But that top-flight ranking could be in jeopardy after losing a mid-week to San Diego and losing two of three at Cal Poly. The RPI currently sits at No. 32, which you would think is well outside of Regional host consideration.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
What Happened: Swept by Cal in Bereley
Why It Hurts: Because of a dude named Andrew Vaughn
Poor Bryce Dydra. Hes the Trojans reliever who served up a pair of jog-off home runs to Cal Super Frosh Andrew Vaughn on both Friday night and Sunday afternoon. Fridays 13-9 loss came when Vaughns opposite field charge cleared the fence for a grand slam. On Sunday, in the 10th inning, Vaughn took another Dydra offering over the left field wall for a two-run dinger, giving the Bears an 8-6 win. USC is now on a 3-11 skid since starting the season 15-9. Also, even more damming, the Trojans saw their RPI ranking drop from within striking distance at No. 62 down to No. 99 in the past week. Aye-yaye-yaye.
Dartmouth
What Happened: Swept in a doubleheader at Yale.
Why It Hurts: No Ivy League Playoffs for what looked to be the overwhelming favorites
Remember the Big Green from earlier this year? They were the team that came down from the snows of New Hampshire and beat both Miami and UCF in weekend series? Ugh, that team will probably not raise its head to our national conscience again as Sundays two losses to Yale put them four games behind the Bulldogs with six games left to play. Its unlikely theyll be able to catch Yale in the Red Rolfe Division of the Ivy League standings. As you know the two division winners face off in the playoffs to advance to the NCAA tournament.
we made the list 2 or 3 consecutive weeks a while back, then the expectations completely fell off the table.....
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D1 Baseball's Top 25, 4/24/17
1 Oregon State 32-3 2-1 1
2 Louisville 33-6 2-2 2
3 Clemson 33-8 3-2 3
4 North Carolina 31-9 2-2 4
5 TCU 30-8 2-1 6
6 Kentucky 28-13 3-1 10
7 Auburn 30-12 3-1 11
8 Texas Tech 33-10 2-2 5
9 Florida 27-13 3-1 12
10 Mississippi State 28-14 3-1 15
11 Long Beach State 25-13 3-1 17
12 Arizona 26-12 0-3 7
13 LSU 27-14 2-2 9
14 Virginia 33-10 4-1 19
15 Arkansas 32-10 3-2 14
16 CS Fullerton 24-14 1-3 8
17 Michigan 31-9 2-2 13
18 St. John's 29-5 3-0 22
19 Texas A&M 28-13 2-2 20
20 Stanford 23-12 4-0 NR
21 Wake Forest 29-13 1-3 18
22 Maryland 28-11 4-0 NR
23 Houston 27-12 2-2 23
24 UL Lafayette 26-14-1 5-0 NR
25 Southern Miss 30-12 2-3 16
Dropped Out
West Virginia 23-15 2-2 21
South Carolina 24-15 2-2 24
San Diego 27-11 2-2 25
1 Oregon State 32-3 2-1 1
2 Louisville 33-6 2-2 2
3 Clemson 33-8 3-2 3
4 North Carolina 31-9 2-2 4
5 TCU 30-8 2-1 6
6 Kentucky 28-13 3-1 10
7 Auburn 30-12 3-1 11
8 Texas Tech 33-10 2-2 5
9 Florida 27-13 3-1 12
10 Mississippi State 28-14 3-1 15
11 Long Beach State 25-13 3-1 17
12 Arizona 26-12 0-3 7
13 LSU 27-14 2-2 9
14 Virginia 33-10 4-1 19
15 Arkansas 32-10 3-2 14
16 CS Fullerton 24-14 1-3 8
17 Michigan 31-9 2-2 13
18 St. John's 29-5 3-0 22
19 Texas A&M 28-13 2-2 20
20 Stanford 23-12 4-0 NR
21 Wake Forest 29-13 1-3 18
22 Maryland 28-11 4-0 NR
23 Houston 27-12 2-2 23
24 UL Lafayette 26-14-1 5-0 NR
25 Southern Miss 30-12 2-3 16
Dropped Out
West Virginia 23-15 2-2 21
South Carolina 24-15 2-2 24
San Diego 27-11 2-2 25
NorCalVol67
Donde is a Badass
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Draft Sleepers
SEC PLAYERS
ANALYSIS Frankie Piliere - May 3, 2017
Logan Salow, lhp, Kentucky
The numbers Logan Salow has compiled this spring certainly warrant a double take – they are that staggering. He’s posted a 0.46 ERA and struck out 58 batters while walking only seven over 39.1 innings of work. A closer who can do that in SEC, especially one that’s lefthanded, is going to get a lot of attention. The 6-foot-1, 185 pound senior southpaw has eight saves on the spring, and has shown off a combination of sneaky stuff and superb command. He’s topped at 93 mph, living mostly at 88-91 and has shown a highly advanced feel for his secondary offerings. Don’t be surprised to see him sneak into the top four rounds this June.
Chad Spanberger, 1b, Arkansas
After getting off to a rough start this spring, Spanberger has kicked it into gear over the last month and has seen his draft stock rise significant in the process. Scouts have been waiting for Spanberger’s big lefty bat to come around for awhile now and it appears they’ve finally gotten their wish. His plus power is showing up in game action, as evidenced by his nine home runs, but his approach has improved as well. He’s hitting .311, has slowed down his strikeouts somewhat and is using the whole field more consistently. A 6-foot-3, 235 pound lefty swinging power bat makes for a hot commodity and Spanberger should find a taker inside the top four rounds.
Jonah Todd, of, Auburn
Take a closer look at what Jonah Todd has done in the SEC this year and it will tell you a lot about what a team stands to get in this year’s June draft. He’s an advanced defender with plus speed. He’s capable of getting down the line in 4.1 seconds, and he shows exactly the right type of approach for his skill set. On the strength of a smooth, fluid lefty stroke, Todd has a superb all fields line drive approach that has carried him to a lofty .396 average so far this spring. Power is not a part of his game, but his combination of speed, defense and hit tool could make him a high probability bet in the top seven rounds.
Ryan Gridley, ss, Mississippi State
Gridley is the classic case of a player the is greater than the sum of their parts. These types of players can get their due in the draft if they can prove themselves on a big stage, and being an SEC shortstop is perfect for that. LSU’s Cole Freeman fits that mold as well and could find himself in the top three or four rounds as well. But Gridley doesn’t get talked about much for a player who hits third in a very talented, high powered Mississippi State lineup. He has excellent hands at shortstop and has advanced barrel control from the right side. He’s hit .341 with five home runs so far in 2017, and in terms of baseball instincts and makeup should impress every scout he meets. His tools may not jump off the page, but this is the type of guy someone in the draft room will be fighting for.
Jordan Rodgers, 3b, Tennessee
As far as a draft prospect resume is concerned, Jordan Rodgers has a lot going for him. The senior third baseman enjoyed a stellar summer in the Cape Cod League, showing significant improvements in every aspect of his game. More importantly, he carried those improvements into 2017 and has further built on them. Hitting .361 with seven home runs and six stolen bases, Rodgers is showing that he has tools that translate into game action. He has above-average power and speed, and he’s also shown he’s athletic enough to play a number of positions at the professional level. With the way he’s hit SEC pitching, it would be very surprising to see him get out of round four.
Ryan Avidano, lhp, Georgia
Avidano is a different type of case than many players on this list, but he’ll be equally fascinating to watch. The 6-foot-6 lefthander doesn’t have the numbers scouts would have wanted, posting an ERA north of seven, but the redshirt sophomore still has shown the stuff to intrigue scouts. He’s worked mostly at 90-92 mph in recent outings, touching 93 and as high as 94 at times. He complements that with a big, above-average 12-6 curveball that has proven to be an outstanding pitch for him this spring. He’s also mixed in some very good changeups against righty batters. He’s going to have to string together some good appearances, but if he can he has an excellent chance to move up some draft boards.
SEC PLAYERS
ANALYSIS Frankie Piliere - May 3, 2017
Logan Salow, lhp, Kentucky
The numbers Logan Salow has compiled this spring certainly warrant a double take – they are that staggering. He’s posted a 0.46 ERA and struck out 58 batters while walking only seven over 39.1 innings of work. A closer who can do that in SEC, especially one that’s lefthanded, is going to get a lot of attention. The 6-foot-1, 185 pound senior southpaw has eight saves on the spring, and has shown off a combination of sneaky stuff and superb command. He’s topped at 93 mph, living mostly at 88-91 and has shown a highly advanced feel for his secondary offerings. Don’t be surprised to see him sneak into the top four rounds this June.
Chad Spanberger, 1b, Arkansas
After getting off to a rough start this spring, Spanberger has kicked it into gear over the last month and has seen his draft stock rise significant in the process. Scouts have been waiting for Spanberger’s big lefty bat to come around for awhile now and it appears they’ve finally gotten their wish. His plus power is showing up in game action, as evidenced by his nine home runs, but his approach has improved as well. He’s hitting .311, has slowed down his strikeouts somewhat and is using the whole field more consistently. A 6-foot-3, 235 pound lefty swinging power bat makes for a hot commodity and Spanberger should find a taker inside the top four rounds.
Jonah Todd, of, Auburn
Take a closer look at what Jonah Todd has done in the SEC this year and it will tell you a lot about what a team stands to get in this year’s June draft. He’s an advanced defender with plus speed. He’s capable of getting down the line in 4.1 seconds, and he shows exactly the right type of approach for his skill set. On the strength of a smooth, fluid lefty stroke, Todd has a superb all fields line drive approach that has carried him to a lofty .396 average so far this spring. Power is not a part of his game, but his combination of speed, defense and hit tool could make him a high probability bet in the top seven rounds.
Ryan Gridley, ss, Mississippi State
Gridley is the classic case of a player the is greater than the sum of their parts. These types of players can get their due in the draft if they can prove themselves on a big stage, and being an SEC shortstop is perfect for that. LSU’s Cole Freeman fits that mold as well and could find himself in the top three or four rounds as well. But Gridley doesn’t get talked about much for a player who hits third in a very talented, high powered Mississippi State lineup. He has excellent hands at shortstop and has advanced barrel control from the right side. He’s hit .341 with five home runs so far in 2017, and in terms of baseball instincts and makeup should impress every scout he meets. His tools may not jump off the page, but this is the type of guy someone in the draft room will be fighting for.
Jordan Rodgers, 3b, Tennessee
As far as a draft prospect resume is concerned, Jordan Rodgers has a lot going for him. The senior third baseman enjoyed a stellar summer in the Cape Cod League, showing significant improvements in every aspect of his game. More importantly, he carried those improvements into 2017 and has further built on them. Hitting .361 with seven home runs and six stolen bases, Rodgers is showing that he has tools that translate into game action. He has above-average power and speed, and he’s also shown he’s athletic enough to play a number of positions at the professional level. With the way he’s hit SEC pitching, it would be very surprising to see him get out of round four.
Ryan Avidano, lhp, Georgia
Avidano is a different type of case than many players on this list, but he’ll be equally fascinating to watch. The 6-foot-6 lefthander doesn’t have the numbers scouts would have wanted, posting an ERA north of seven, but the redshirt sophomore still has shown the stuff to intrigue scouts. He’s worked mostly at 90-92 mph in recent outings, touching 93 and as high as 94 at times. He complements that with a big, above-average 12-6 curveball that has proven to be an outstanding pitch for him this spring. He’s also mixed in some very good changeups against righty batters. He’s going to have to string together some good appearances, but if he can he has an excellent chance to move up some draft boards.
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snippets of paid article............
Coaching Carousel In Review
COACHING BUZZ Kendall Rogers - August 3, 2017
The college baseball coaching carousel is winding down with just one job open as fall workouts near Manhattan needs to find a replacement for coach Jim Duffy, who took an assistant position on the Rutgers staff. So, its a good time to take a serious dive into the carousel........
Best Hire
Virginia Techs John Szefc....it wouldve been easy for Hokies athletic director Whit Babcock to go cheap with his hire. After all, the Hokies have only reached the NCAA postseason twice since 2000 and have been somewhat of a whipping boy in the ACC.......
Most Dramatic Search
College of Charleston....were sincerely hoping the Chad Holbrook era is much smoother than was the process to hire him. .... Apparently, the school president had buyers remorse at the last second and Holbrook temporarily said goodbye to the Cougars.....Well, the next morning, the school administration realized Holbrook was the right choice and re-offered.........
Not Dramatic, But Puzzling
Oklahoma.......fired head coach Pete Hughes, only to turn around and hire his assistant and pitching coach, Skip Johnson. Clearly, there must much more to the story.......
Most Notable Coaching Search
Stanford....You could make a strong argument for South Carolina here.....
Sneaky Good Hires
Derek Matlock, UT Rio Grande Valley....Matlock is a hard-nosed recruiter from his days at West Virginia........
Ive Got My Eye On
Brad Bohannon, Alabama: Stability is needed in Tuscaloosa....Bohannon earned a reputation as an elite recruiter and assistant during his time at Kentucky and Auburn, respectively, but admittedly has a tough rebuilding job on his hands with the Crimson Tide....
Best Assistant Hire
Dave Serrano, West Virginia
Serrano had several options when Tennessee parted ways with him. First, he had an option to go to Alabama. However, the rebuilding process looks lengthy in Tuscaloosa and Serrano wanted a situation with a bit more stability. He considered Arizona State before deciding to head to WVU, which is an easily drivable trip for some of his family that will stay in Knoxville. Serrano reached the College World Series with two teams UC Irvine and Cal State Fullerton before scuffling with the Vols. Now, he has an opportunity to help Randy Mazey and the Mountaineers take another step forward.
Coaching Carousel In Review
COACHING BUZZ Kendall Rogers - August 3, 2017
The college baseball coaching carousel is winding down with just one job open as fall workouts near Manhattan needs to find a replacement for coach Jim Duffy, who took an assistant position on the Rutgers staff. So, its a good time to take a serious dive into the carousel........
Best Hire
Virginia Techs John Szefc....it wouldve been easy for Hokies athletic director Whit Babcock to go cheap with his hire. After all, the Hokies have only reached the NCAA postseason twice since 2000 and have been somewhat of a whipping boy in the ACC.......
Most Dramatic Search
College of Charleston....were sincerely hoping the Chad Holbrook era is much smoother than was the process to hire him. .... Apparently, the school president had buyers remorse at the last second and Holbrook temporarily said goodbye to the Cougars.....Well, the next morning, the school administration realized Holbrook was the right choice and re-offered.........
Not Dramatic, But Puzzling
Oklahoma.......fired head coach Pete Hughes, only to turn around and hire his assistant and pitching coach, Skip Johnson. Clearly, there must much more to the story.......
Most Notable Coaching Search
Stanford....You could make a strong argument for South Carolina here.....
Sneaky Good Hires
Derek Matlock, UT Rio Grande Valley....Matlock is a hard-nosed recruiter from his days at West Virginia........
Ive Got My Eye On
Brad Bohannon, Alabama: Stability is needed in Tuscaloosa....Bohannon earned a reputation as an elite recruiter and assistant during his time at Kentucky and Auburn, respectively, but admittedly has a tough rebuilding job on his hands with the Crimson Tide....
Best Assistant Hire
Dave Serrano, West Virginia
Serrano had several options when Tennessee parted ways with him. First, he had an option to go to Alabama. However, the rebuilding process looks lengthy in Tuscaloosa and Serrano wanted a situation with a bit more stability. He considered Arizona State before deciding to head to WVU, which is an easily drivable trip for some of his family that will stay in Knoxville. Serrano reached the College World Series with two teams UC Irvine and Cal State Fullerton before scuffling with the Vols. Now, he has an opportunity to help Randy Mazey and the Mountaineers take another step forward.
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NOT DRAMATIC...BUT PUZZLING.....
Skip Johnson was hired knowing from administration that he would be the next head coach at OU...He Knew Pete was in an impossible situation from his interview,,,,thats the only reason why he went there..IMO..I had a buddy who's son was on the team. And Yes,,,there is a lot more to this story,,but thats old news now..just thought I would throw that in there...doesnt mean anything to Vol Nation...Go Vols!!!!!
Skip Johnson was hired knowing from administration that he would be the next head coach at OU...He Knew Pete was in an impossible situation from his interview,,,,thats the only reason why he went there..IMO..I had a buddy who's son was on the team. And Yes,,,there is a lot more to this story,,but thats old news now..just thought I would throw that in there...doesnt mean anything to Vol Nation...Go Vols!!!!!
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BaseVol Fan
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