College Baseball

[Big Six]

Just dropping by to let you know that your dynasty is very high on my "must read" list. Your premise is a lot of fun, and your writing is first-rate.

Keep up the good work, BB. I'll be following the action closely, even though I haven't picked a favorite team. My alma mater, Emory, is a D-III school, so I don't have a built-in rooting interest.

[batted balls]

June 2, 2007

Miami--Although the calendar says June, it's Hurricane season.

Ron Fraser's Miami Hurricanes have won seven games in a row and nine of their last 10. The hot streak has left Miami just two games behind first-place Ivy in the All-American Baseball League East.

"We're on a roll right now, that's for sure," said Fraser. "Obviously, we want to keep things rolling."

Leading the way have been pitchers John Fulgham, Wade Taylor and Warren Bogle. Fulgham (4-3) was named East Pitcher of the Month. The right-hander has allowed just three earned runs in his last three starts while picking up two victories. Taylor (3-1) has won his last two starts. Meanwhile, Bogle (7-1) is 4-0 with a 0.81 ERA in his last five outings.

"Those three have really stepped things up," said Fraser.

The good news for Miami is that it has been on a roll without strong pitching from ace Alex Fernandez. A 22-game winner last year, Fernandez is just 5-7 this season.

"Alex will come around, just watch," said Fraser.

Meanwhile, the offense--which has struggled at times this season--also appears to be showing signs of life. Despite batting just .255, catcher/designated hitter Mike Piazza has 10 homers and 26 RBIs.

"I haven't hit my stride yet," Piazza said. "Not even close."

Third baseman Aubrey Huff is batting .297 with three home runs and 24 RBIs. Outfielder F.P. Santagelo (.274-3-25) has hit well of late. Catcher Jorge Fabergas, an All-Star last year, has raised his average to a team-high .298.

East Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Ivy 35 22 .614 --
Miami 33 24 .579 2.0
Illinois 31 26 .544 4.0
Michigan 30 27 .526 5.0
Mississippi State 30 27 .526 5.0
Florida State 28 29 .491 7.0
Louisiana State 26 31 .456 9.0
Michigan State 25 32 .439 10.0
Notre Dame 24 33 .421 11.0
Minnesota 23 34 .404 12.0

Player of the Month: Lou Boudreau, Illinois

Pitcher of the Month: John Fulgham, Miami (shown below)

Stat of the Week: Minnesota short stop Jerry Kindall and second baseman Brent Gates are a combined 0-for-their last 35 at-bats.

May Team-By-Team Reports

Ivy: While the offense has continued to lead the way, the pitching has slipped a bit. Still, the defending champion Eagles remain atop the East. First baseman Lou Gehrig leads the division in home runs (12), RBIs (53) and OPS (.961). Jim Beattie (8-2) is the most reliable starter.
Miami: The Hurricanes appear on the verge of taking over first place. In fact, Miami hosts a three-game series with Ivy in mid-June. The bullpen trio of Kurt Knudsen, Oscar Munoz and Danny Graves remains solid.
Illinois: An 8-2 stretch has the Fighting Illini back in the hunt. Pitchers Fred Beebe (8-2, 2.45 ERA) and Donn Pall (12 saves, 0.65) are vying for All-Star spots. After taking three games in a four-game series from Ivy, Illinois will face Miami six times in the next week. Short stop Lou Boudreau hit .364 in May to earn Player of the Month honors.
Michigan: The spring's hottest team is turning sour as summer begins. The Wolverines have lost nine of their last 10. The offense (.232) has fallen mightily while the pitching remains the team's strength. Short stop Barry Larkin's average has dipped to .209. Starter Steve Ontiveros (7-4, 1.66 ERA) appears the best bet to make the All-Star team.
Mississippi State: The Bulldogs are another team on the downslide. Mississippi State has dropped four straight and seven of its last 10 games. Starters Dave "Boo" Ferris (6-4, 1.13) and Jonathan Papelbon (6-2, 1.77) rank first and third in ERA respectively. Rafael Palmeiro (.267-6-35) has been the offense's best player. Will Clark, slowed by back problems, has just two homers and 12 RBIs.
Florida State: The Seminoles are suddenly hot, winning eight of their last 11 games. Mark Gilbert, an All-Star last year, is third among East batting leaders at .333. Eduardo Perez, who hit for the cycle back in April, is sixth at .326. Craig Skok (11 saves, 1.21) continues to close games out.
LSU: A look at the "Who's Hot" list shows many Tigers. Starter Mike Sirotka has won three consecutive starts to improve to 6-4 with a 3.15 ERA. First baseman Russ Johnson (.316-5-23) and outfielder Joe Adcock (.292-3-26) have both hit over .400 in their last 10 games. Left fielder Albert Belle (.266-8-33) is just 3-for-his last 19.
Michigan State: The Spartans have looked better than last season. However, the offense continues to rank among the AABL's worst. Third baseman Steve Garvey (.351-4-27) is second in hitting. Kirk Gibson (.273-8-37) has made vast improvements. Rick Miller (.291-1-28) has been reliable. Yet, the rest of the offense is batting a lowly .186. Starter Ed Hobaugh is just 5-5 despite a 1.92 ERA.
Notre Dame: The Fighting Irish possess the East's leading hitter (Cap Anson, .367) and top base stealer (Louis Sockalexis, 8) yet continue to hang out near the division's basement. Jim Hannan (5-3, 2.63 ERA) is the only starter with a winning record. This is a team lacking power. Left fielder Carl Yastrzemski (.271) leads the Irish with a paltry four home runs.
Minnesota: The feel-good story of April and early May has given way to loss after loss. The Golden Gophers have won just six times in their last 28 games. Bryan Hickerson (6-2, 2.30 ERA) has been a bright spot; Jim Brower (0-4, 4.41) and Denny Neagle (3-7, 4.21) have not. Paul Molitor (.315-1-18) and Dave Winfield (.280-5-24) have led the offense. Outfielder J.T. Bruett (.207-3-14) has cooled off with just three hits in his last 31 at-bats.

[batted balls]

June 2, 2007

Los Angeles--Some of the names in the headlines may have changed but the Southern California Trojans are marching on.

USC, winners of 10 straight games and 14 of its last 16, has opened a six-game lead over defending West champion Arizona State. The Trojans, 41-16 overall, will host the Sun Devils in a three-game series in mid-June.

"It's been a total team effort this year," said USC manager Rod Dedeaux. "When someone falls, another is there to pick them up."

Mostly, it's been the opponents that need to be picked up. The Trojan offense ranks No. 1 or 2 in almost every category. The pitching staff isn't far behind, ranking first in team ERA and second in runs allowed.

"Our pitchers have really done the job," said Dedeaux. "That wasn't always the case a year ago."

A year ago, USC fought to keep pace with Arizona State. By season's end, the Sun Devils had run away with the West to the tune of 113 victories and a College World Series berth.

"We'd love to do that," said Trojan left-hander Randy Johnson.

Johnson has certainly done his part. The fire-balling lefty is 6-0 with a 3.07 ERA. Right-hander Jim Barr, 16-7 as an All-Star last year, is 10-1 with a 1.77 ERA (third best in the West). Left-hander Barry Zito, who fell one win shy of 20 a year ago, is 7-2 with a 1.98 ERA.

Mark Prior, the 2006 Golden Arm Award winner, is 6-3 with a 2.18 ERA. Right-hander Tom Seaver (3-4, 3.05) has won two straight decisions. Spot starter Bill Lee is 2-0 with a 1.69 ERA.

"Our starters have been more than I've ever asked for," said Dedeaux.

On offense, the Trojans have been explosive. First baseman Mark McGwire, last year's Golden Spikes winner, leads the team with 13 home runs. McGwire, batting .277, is second on the club with 44 RBIs. Designated hitter Dave Kingman (.227-12 homers) has 47 RBIs, good for second best among division leaders.

Third baseman Aaron Boone (.380) and center fielder Fred Lynn (.356) hold down the top two spots in the West batting race. Lynn hit .411 with 23 RBIs for the month.

"We are a complete team this season," said Lynn.

Trojan fans would like nothing more than the defintion of complete to mean a College World Series title.

West Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Southern California 41 16 .719 --
Arizona State 35 22 .614 6.0
UCLA 33 24 .579 8.0
California 32 25 .561 9.0
Stanford 31 26 .544 10.0
Arizona 28 29 .491 13.0
Texas 26 31 .456 15.0
Cal State Fullerton 22 35 .386 19.0
San Diego State 20 37 .351 21.0
Oklahoma State 17 40 .298 24.0


Player of the Month: Fred Lynn, Southern California

Pitcher of the Month: Dave Schmidt, UCLA (shown below)

Stat of the Week: Three of Southern California's starters have struck out more batters than innings pitched. The trio includes Mark Prior (105 Ks in 82.2 innings), Barry Zito (78 Ks in 77 IP) and Randy Johnson (47 Ks in 44 IP).

May Team-By-Team Reports
Southern California: The Trojans are attempting to run away from the pack with 10 straight wins. Closer Ray Lamb has run off 10 consecutive saves to give him 15 on the season. That total ties Lamb with Trevor Hoffman of Arizona for the West lead.
Arizona State: The Sun Devils, 35-22, are five games worse at this point of the season than they were a year ago. Despite going 7-3 in its last 10 games, Arizona State has actually lost three games in the standings. Floyd Bannister (8-1, 2.19 ERA) and Gary Gentry (5-1, 1.85) lead the pitching staff. Bob Horner (.338-15-36) is the main offensive threat. The outfield of Rick Monday (.203), Reggie Jackson (.223) and Oddibe McDowell (.234) has struggled.
UCLA: The offense ranks near the top of the AABL. Corner infielders Bob Hamelin (.294-14-32) and Troy Glaus (.260-15-49) are poster boys for Bruin baseball. Dave Schmidt (8-1) tops the West with a microscopic 0.69 ERA. Fellow starters Matt Young (7-3, 4.62) and Bill Bonham (5-2, 3.09) have tasted success. The bullpen, anchored by Jim York's 11 saves, has been shaky.
Cal: Starting pitchers Andy Messersmith (5-2, 1.99 ERA), Orval Overall (6-4, 2.57) and Bill "Bugs" Werle (8-3, 1.65) have formed a strong threesome. Jeff Kent (.283-8-35) and Sam Chapman (.280-11-32) power the offense.
Stanford: A revamped offense has helped the Cardinal move up in the standings in the past month. Fresh off a record-tying 27-game hitting streak, Steve Hovley (.321-4-24) leads the charge. Jeffrey Hammonds (.296-6-25) has 14 stolen bases, most in the West. Backup catcher A.J. Hinch (.307-5-15) should get more playing time. Dave Frost (5-0, 1.82) has the only winning record as a starter on a disappointing pitching staff.
Arizona: Take away closer Trevor Hoffman (15 saves, 2.96 ERA) and the Wildcat pitching has had its problems. The offense continues to center on second baseman Jason Bates (.345-7-28). Kenny Lofton (.290-2-28) shows splashes of greatness in center field.
Texas: Manager Cliff Gustafson continues to be puzzled by his Longhorns. Slow afoot, Texas has just one stolen base this season. Brooks Kieschnick (.282-2-26) has joined Grady Hatton (.296-5-29) and Ernie Koy (.281-4-28) as the offensive threats. Hard-throwing Roger Clemens (6-5, 2.81 ERA) and Bruce Ruffin (6-6, 2.90) anchor a mediocre pitching staff.
Cal State Fullerton: Perhaps the weakest offense in the AABL has the Titans destined for the second division. Catcher Dan Howitt has the team's best average at .267 yet has just one home run and 13 RBIs. Jose Mota (.222-five homers) leads CSF with 27 RBIs. Aaron Rowand (.253-1-15) and Dante Powell (.256-1-10) are the best of the lackluster rest. That's bad news for starters like Jeff Robinson (4-6, 2.23 ERA) and Matt Wise (3-7, 2.79).
San Diego State: Early promise has turned into fool's gold as a taxed bullpen has stumbled. Right-hander Aaron Harang (3-4, 3.24 ERA) is the only starter to dent the win column. Closer Royce Ring (4 saves, 3.63) has suffered from overwork in non-save situations. Mark Grace (.303-3-14) is bidding for an All-Star berth that didn't materialize a season ago. Travis Lee has eight home runs but is batting just .201.
Oklahoma State: The Cowboy pitching staff has been awful. The starting jobs of Dave Mlicki (0-7, 6.39 ERA) and Joe Horlen (1-7, 4.32) are in jeopardy. Thanks to a somewhat productive offense, Allie Reynolds (4-5, 3.69) and Tom Borland (4-2, 2.81) have enjoyed limited success. Danny Thompson (.318-4-26) and Robin Ventura (.296-2-26) have been the most consistent Cowboys. Slugger Pete Incaviglia has 10 home runs but is batting a putrid .211.

[batted balls]

June 10, 2007

Miami--The hottest thing to hit South Beach isn't "Miami Vice." It's the red-hot Miami Hurricanes.

Miami has continued its scorching pace by winning 15 of its last 17 games to take over first place in the All-American Baseball League East. The Hurricanes, 39-25, moved past Ivy and into the top spot earlier this week.

"There's something special around here," said pitcher Alex Fernandez who has won his last two starts to improve his record to 6-7 on the season.

The Hurricanes feasted on Illinois, winning five of six games against the Fighting Illini recently. Miami outscored Illinois 29-13 in those contests.

"They are as good as anybody we've seen this year," said Illinois manager Tom Dedin. "That includes Ivy."

Speaking of Ivy, the Eagles have found tough times of late. Ivy is just 4-6 in its last 10 games. In fact, the Eagles dropped two of three to ninth-place Notre Dame.

"We've hit a bit of a rough spot, but we'll turn it around soon enough," said Ivy manager Bob Seddon.

The two teams begin a three-game series at Miami's Alex Rodriquez Stadium next week.

Diamond Notes: Michigan first baseman George Sisler picked up the East Player of the Week award. Sisler (shown below) batted .455 with two home runs and 13 RBIs on the week . . . Ivy pitcher Jim Beattie has lost two of his last three decisions. Beattie is 8-3 on the season . . . Will Clark may be showing signs of shaking off his recent back ailments. Clark has eight hits in his last 20 at-bats to raise his average to .308 . . . Illinois pitcher Fred Beebe leads the East with a 9-4 record. Beebe had the lone Illini win against Miami.

Stat of the Week: Mississippi State pitcher Dave "Boo" Ferriss has only given up more than two earned runs once this season. Ferriss, 8-4, leads the East with a 1.04 ERA.

East Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Miami 39 25 .609 --
Ivy 38 26 .594 1.0
Michigan 36 28 .563 3.0
Mississippi State 36 28 .563 3.0
Illinois 33 31 .516 6.0
Florida State 30 34 .469 9.0
Louisiana State 29 35 .453 10.0
Michigan State 28 36 .438 11.0
Notre Dame 27 37 .422 12.0
Minnesota 24 40 .375 15.0

[batted balls]

June 10, 2007

Los Angeles--Fred Lynn enjoyed winning the All-American Baseball League West batting title last season. While he would also like a repeat performance this year, there's something else on his mind.

"I want to win the College World Series, plain and simple," said Lynn (shown below).

The Trojan center fielder is certainly doing his part. Lynn has parlayed a 12-for-25 hot streak into a .368 average. That figure ties Lynn with teammate Aaron Boone for the West lead in batting. Ironically, Lynn won the West title a year ago with a .368 average.

"Freddie is as hot as hot can be right now," said Boone.

Lynn also leads the West in OPS (1.146), runs scored (50) and doubles (22). He also has six steals and has played Gold Glove caliber defense.

"Fred Lynn got overlooked in some ways last year," said USC manager Rod Dedeaux. "That won't happen this time around."

Diamond Notes: Arizona State short stop Pat Listach won the West Player of the Week award. Listach hit .500 over the past week . . . There were a pair of two-hitters in back-to-back days. On Wednesday, Orval Overall of Cal two-hit San Diego State. Thursday, it was Oklahoma State's Allie Reynolds' turn. Reynolds tossed his gem against Arizona . . . With four home runs this past week, UCLA first baseman Bob Hamelin has tied Bob Horner of Arizona State for the West lead with 18 homers . . . Texas infielder Dave Chalk went on the 15-day disabled list with a strained anterior cruciate ligament. Short stop Walter Morris was brought up from the minors . . . Southern California and Arizona State will open a three-game series in Los Angeles on Monday.

Stat of the Week: Fred Lynn of Southern California is batting an incredible .451 (23-for-51) with runners in scoring position. Lynn has four doubles and five home runs in those situations.

West Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Southern California 45 19 .703 --
Arizona State 39 25 .609 6.0
UCLA 37 27 .578 8.0
Stanford 36 28 .563 9.0
California 35 29 .547 10.0
Arizona 32 32 .500 13.0
Texas 29 35 .453 16.0
San Diego State 24 40 .375 21.0
Cal State Fullerton 23 41 .359 22.0
Oklahoma State 20 44 .313 25.0

[batted balls]

June 16, 2007

East Lansing, Mich.--Things didn't get any easier for Michigan State when pitcher Tim Birtsas found his way to the disabled list.

Birtsas (shown below) pulled the triceps muscle in his right arm during the eighth inning of Monday's 4-0 loss to Illinois. The Spartan right-hander is exected to miss at least eight weeks.

"This is unfortunate for us because Tim was throwing well this season," said Michigan State manager John Kobs.

Birtsas, pitching exclusively out of the bullpen, was 4-2 with one save in 30 games this season. His 1.93 ERA was the lowest on the team.

"I was thinking about giving Tim a spot start and seeing what he could do," Kobs. said. "Still, he was so valuable to us as a middle reliever."

Right-hander Mel Behney was called up from the minors to take Birtsas' roster spot. Behney, 9-3 in Triple-A ball this season, was 3-0 with two saves with the 2007 Spartans.

Diamond Notes: The East pennant race tightened up substantially as Michigan and Mississippi State each won seven of their last 10 games. The Wolverines and Bulldogs are tied for third place, two games behind first-place Miami. Defending champion Ivy holds down second, one game back . . . Ivy and Miami begin a three-game series Wednesday at Alex Rodriquez Stadium . . . Dave Winfield of Minnesota won his first Player of the Week award. Winfield hit .417 during the span . . . Florida State short stop Dick Howser extended his career-high 11-game hitting streak with a single against Mississippi State . . . Notre Dame's Carl Yastrzemski is day-to-day with a bruised ulna . . . Only 13 of Cap Anson's division-leading 97 hits have been for extra bases. The Notre Dame third baseman has eight doubles and five triples.

Stat of the Week: Free of back pain for the first time this season, Mississippi State first baseman Will Clark is 13-for-his last 26. That hot streak raises Clark's average to .322, third best among East batting leaders.

East Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Miami 41 28 .594 --
Ivy 40 29 .580 1.0
Michigan 39 30 .565 2.0
Mississippi State 39 30 .565 2.0
Illinois 36 33 .522 5.0
Florida State 33 36 .478 8.0
Louisiana State 33 36 .478 8.0
Michigan State 29 40 .420 12.0
Notre Dame 29 40 .420 12.0
Minnesota 26 43 .377 15.0

[batted balls]

June 16, 2007

Los Angeles--Southern California right-hander Jim Barr may have locked up the starting pitcher slot for the All-Star Game in two weeks. As of now, he really doesn't care.

"That will take care of itself," Barr said after improving his record to 13-1 with a 5-1 win Tuesday against Arizona State.

"Right now, I'm excited that we took two games in this (three-game) series and increased our lead," Barr said.

Barr was far from his best against the Sun Devils. He gave up eight hits and walked three in six innings. Yet Barr limited Arizona State to just one run, a solo homer to Bob Horner in the third.

Barr actually left the game with the bases loaded and no outs in the seventh.

"Horner was coming up again, Jimmy was a little tired, so I went to our pen," said USC manager Rod Dedeaux.

Right-hander Barry Latman entered the game. He got Horner to line out to Trojan right fielder Ron Fairly who then turned the out into a double play when Bump Wills strayed too far off second.

"A terrible base-running blunder," said Arizona State manager Bobby Winkles.

Latman then got Reggie Jackson to ground out and went on to shut the Sun Devils down in the eighth and ninth. Latman earned his third save of the year.

"Barry really did the job for us," said Dedeaux.

The win followed a split of the first two games of the series. USC won Sunday's opener 2-0 behind solid pitching from Barry Zito (8-3) and Tom House (third save). In Monday's contest, Paul Moskau (9-4) outdueled Tom Seaver (3-6) in a 3-1 Arizona State victory.

After the series ended, Arizona State made two roster moves. The Sun Devils optioned Gary Rajsich (.250-0-15) and Barry Bonds (.191-3-10) to Triple-A. Both have been labeled as "disappointments" by Winkles this season. Left-handed relief pitcher Jim Umbarger and outfielder Mike Kelly were brought up from the minors.

Diamond Notes: Arizona State and USC will next play each other in a two-game series immediately following the All-Star break . . . Arizona outfielder Terry Francona (shown below) was named West Player of the Week . . . UCLA first baseman Bob Hamelin homered five times in the past week to take over the West lead in longballs. Hamelin now has 21 homers . . . Surging Stanford has won eight of its last 10 games to pull into a third-place tie with UCLA . . . San Diego State may have found another starter. Left-hander Bud Black came up from the minors to notch a victory June 10 at Texas . . . Aaron Boone of USC needs one more hit to reach 100 this season. Boone, who leads the West with a .363 average, has 185 hits a year ago.

Stat of the Week: Stanford starter Jim Lonborg has won four straight games and six of his last seven decisions to improve his record to 8-5.


West Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Southern California 48 21 .696 --
Arizona State 41 28 .594 7.0
Stanford 39 30 .565 9.0
UCLA 39 30 .565 9.0
California 37 32 .536 11.0
Arizona 35 34 .507 13.0
Texas 32 37 .464 16.0
San Diego State 27 42 .391 21.0
Cal State Fullerton 25 44 .362 23.0
Oklahoma State 22 47 .319 26.0

[batted balls]

June 21, 2007

Miami--The longest day of the year is supposed to be June 21, the summer solstice. Tell that to the Ivy Eagles and the Miami Hurricanes.

In game two of their three-game series on June 18, Ivy outlasted Miami 5-3 in 15 innings to temporarily take over first place in the All-American Baseball League East.

"This was a tough one to lose, that's for certain," said Miami manager Ron Fraser of the five-hour, forty-six minute marathon.

Ivy scored the winning runs on RBI singles by Roy Thomas and Doug Glanville off loser Jay Tessmer (5-2), the seventh Hurricane pitcher of the day. Jeff Musselman (2-0) was the winner. He was the sixth Ivy pitcher to take the mound.

Miami did, however, rebound in the series finale. Orlando Palmeiro broke open a close game with a bases-loaded triple as the Hurricanes rolled to a 9-2 victory. The win left both teams with 42-30 records, tying them for first place. Alex Fernandez (7-8) took the win for Miami; Pete Broberg (7-7) was the loser for Ivy.

"I'm happy we came back to win the last game," said Fraser. "It took away some of their momentum."

The Eagles won the series opener 3-0 via three-hit shutuout by Jim Beattie (9-4). Left-hander Warren Bogle (7-4) as the loser. Ivy's Bill Almon hit his fourth home run of the year in the fifth inning.

After wrapping up the series, both teams traveled to Michigan. Miami shut out Michigan State 2-0 in East Lansing while Ivy tipped Michigan 5-4 in Ann Arbor. Both series have two games remaining.

Diamond Notes: Illinois pitcher Jeff Innis won the East Player of the Week award. Innis earned victories against Michigan State and Illinois. He allowed no runs in either game, struck out 13 and walked just one . . . East home run leader Lou Gehrig of Ivy has gone 16 games without a longball. Gehrig, who has 12 four-baggers, last homered June 1 against Illinois. Miami's Mike Piazza, who is second in the East with 10 round-trippers, hasn't homered in 18 games . . . Florida State short stop Dick Howser extended his hitting streak to 15 games . . . last-place Minnesota's woes continue. The Golden Gophers, who rank last in both home runs and runs scored, are just 4-13 in June.

Stat of the Week: Mississippi State starter Dave "Boo" Ferriss won his sixth straight decision to up his record to 10-4 on the season. Ferriss, who leads the East with a 1.06 ERA, is tied with Fred Bebee of Illinois in wins. Ferriss is pictured below.

East Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Ivy 43 30 .589 --
Miami 43 30 .589 --
Michigan 41 32 .562 2.0
Mississippi State 41 32 .562 2.0
Illinois 39 34 .534 4.0
Florida State 35 38 .479 8.0
Louisiana State 35 38 .479 8.0
Michigan State 31 42 .425 12.0
Notre Dame 30 43 .411 13.0
Minnesota 27 46 .370 16.0

[batted balls]

June 21, 2007

Fullerton, Calif.--It's been a rough month on Cal State Fullerton manager Augie Garrido.

"No, it's been a rough year," Garrido said. "And we're not even to the All-Star break."

Garrido has good reason to feel so worked over. His Titans have won just three games all month and are on the verge on falling into the All-American Baseball League West cellar.

"We've been pathetic lately," said center fielder Aaron Rowand. "Just plain awful."

Cal State Fullerton, 25-48, is just one game ahead of last-place San Diego State. Those two teams play each other in the last series prior to the All-Star Game.

"They probably can't wait to get their hands on us right now," said Garrido.

The Titans rank at or near the bottom of almost every offensive and pitching category. No starter has a winning record. Matt Wise (2-8, 3.11 ERA) has been placed on the disabled list with elbow pain.

Third baseman Mike Lamb's .268 average is the highest on the team. One catcher, Dan Whitmer, is batting .184 while the other, Brent Mayne, is batting .091.

"There's no way around it, we stink," said outfielder Dante Powell.

The Titans were nearly no-hit Friday by Arizona State's Eddie Bane. Only a Lamb single up the middle to lead off the ninth prevented that from happening.

It seems unlikely that a Cal State Fullerton player will be selected to play in the All-Star Game for the second straight year. Closer Mike Schooler (10 saves, 31 strikeouts in 25 innings) may have an outside chance.

"We had a chance to show him (Arizona State's Bobby Winkles who will manage the West All-Stars) how good Mike is, but we fell flat on our faces," said Garrido. "You can't really use your closer right when you get swept and outscored so badly.

"I'd like to say we'll turn things around, but that may not happen. I may just wind up bringing up some prospects like Reed Johnson and Mark Kotsay and let 'em play alongside a guy like (Tim) Wallach. It couldn't hurt at this point."

Diamond Notes: Dan Meyer of Arizona was chosen as the West Player of the Week. Meyer (shown below) was 12-for-26 with two home runs and seven RBIs for the week. Meyer is third in the West with eight steals . . . Infielder Bret Barberie has made the most of his playing time with Southern California. Barberie, who has started 19 games this season, has a nine-game hitting string and has raised his average to .318 . . . Arizona stopper Trevor Hoffman had his consecutive save string snapped at 19 when he suffered a blown save and loss to UCLA this week . . . Cal has lost five consecutive games and eight of its last 10 to drop into sixth place.

Stat of the Week: As a team Cal State Fullerton has 28 home runs, just seven more than West leader Bob Hamelin of UCLA.

West Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Southern California 51 22 .699 --
Arizona State 45 28 .616 6.0
UCLA 41 32 .562 10.0
Stanford 40 33 .548 11.0
Arizona 37 36 .507 14.0
California 37 36 .507 14.0
Texas 36 37 .493 15.0
San Diego State 29 44 .397 22.0
Cal State Fullerton 25 48 .342 26.0
Oklahoma State 24 49 .329 27.0

[batted balls]

Max Mercy, Jr. here again, folks . . .

Ole Max is about gassed out folks. Ole Max is experiencing gas pains like never before. No, Ole Max isn't talking about a couple of bad burritos from down El Paso way . . . Ole Max is talking about these crazy gas prices.

Those of you who are regular (get it!) readers on Ole Max's column know of his travels on the highways and byways of this great country to get the inside scoop on the All-American Baseball League. You know of Ole Max's journeys in his super-cool (or "tricked-out" as those wacky college co-eds like to say) RV dubbed the Maxi-Pad. Well, the Maxi-Pad may have to be shelved for awhile. Why?

High gas prices! Like most Americans, these prices have hit the ole bottom line for Ole Max. As you know, Ole Max is a freelance writer since his "dismissal" from that cheap rag of a Chicago paper he used to work his tail off for . . . that means Ole Max doesn't have a fancy expense account like the big boys in Bristol and other media mavens. Yes, gas prices are eating away at Ole Max's money supply. That's why Ole Max just may have to park the Maxi-Pad for a few weeks or months or maybe even the rest of the season.

Don't panic, loyal readers! Ole Max will still be on the job. My pappy didn't raise no dummy. Ole Max will find a way to get around the AABL circuit in a cheaper manner. Just like you hard-working egg 'n hammers out there, Ole Max will tighten his belt and find a new and better way to get the job done.

So, Ole Max is giving you his word that he'll be where the action and the story is. Whether it be in sunny California, blazing-hot Texas, the marvelous Midwest, the tropics of Florida or some snooty place out East . . . Ole Max is on the job, getting the latest dope out to you! (One of my friends said I shouldn't use the word "dope" any more, but Ole Max doesn't see what the big deal is. People these days are just too PC! If you're a dope, well then too bad!).

Also be safe in the knowledge that if these gas prices continue to rise like the ERA of a Cal State Fullerton pitcher, Ole Max will let those politicians in Washington know what's what! Yes, Ole Max is more than just a snazzy-dressing, ruggedly handsome baseball savant!

This is Max Mercy, Jr., working his way to Austin, Texas for the All-Star Game . . . I should be there by month's end in time for the first pitch!

[batted balls]

June 28, 2007

Bristol, Conn.--Ivy and Miami have posted identical 7-3 records going into the All-Star break. Thus, the Eagles held onto their one-game lead over the Hurricanes in the All-American Baseball League East.

"Both teams have played well lately, maybe that's a good sign for us in the All-Star Game," said Ivy's Bob Seddon who will manage the East All Stars.

Ivy had won seven straight games before dropping its last two to Florida State. The Eagles had managed to sweep Michigan and Michigan State on the road.

"We slipped a little at the end, but I'm happy with our first half," said Seddon.

Miami, meanwhile, also stumbled a bit before the break. The Hurricanes dropped three of their last four games, including two of three to Minnesota.

"We feel like we should be in first, but a game back is the next best thing," said Hurricane manager Ron Fraser.

Mississippi State, winners in three of the last four games, are just three games out of first.

Diamond Notes: Michigan's Jim Abbott (6-2) threw a one-hitter in a 9-0 win over Mississippi State. Abbott (shown below) gave up only a fourth inning single to Jon Shave while walking one and striking out six . . . Miami's Neal Heaton also tossed a one-hitter. Heaton's came in a 7-0 victory over Minnesota. Heaton, who last year one-hit Michigan State, walked three and struck out three. Brent Gates had the lone Golden Gopher hit, a fifth-inning single . . . Jim Beattie of Ivy took home the East Player of the Week plaque. Beattie (11-4, 2.60) earned two wins this week, including a shutout of Michigan . . . Florida State short stop Dick Howser is threatening the hitting streak record. Howser has hit in 23 straight games to set an East record (the old mark was 18 by Albert Belle of LSU). The AABL record of 27 is shared by Hubie Brooks of Arizona State and Steve Hovley of Stanford.

League Leaders at the Break:
Batting--Cap Anson, Notre Dame, .346
Home Runs--Lou Gehrig, Ivy and Mike Piazza, Miami, 12
RBIs--Lou Gehrig, Ivy, 60
Runs Scored--Steve Yerkes, Ivy, 52
Stolen Bases--Louis Sockalexis, Notre Dame, 11

Wins--Jim Beattie, Ivy and Dave Ferriss, Mississippi State, 11
ERA--Dave Ferriss, Mississippi State, 1.07
Strikeouts--Jeff Innis, Illinois, 97
Saves--Bobby Thigpen, Mississippi State, 19

East Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Ivy 49 32 .605 --
Miami 48 33 .593 1.0
Mississippi State 46 35 .568 3.0
Michigan 44 37 .543 5.0
Illinois 42 39 .519 7.0
Louisiana State 41 40 .506 8.0
Florida State 39 42 .481 10.0
Notre Dame 33 48 .407 16.0
Minnesota 32 49 .395 17.0
Michigan State 31 50 .383 18.0

[batted balls]

June 28, 2007

Los Angeles--Improved pitching was priority one for Southern California manager Rod Dedeaux. If Monday and Tuesday's performances are any indication, consider Dedeaux's goal accomplished.

Dedeaux's Trojans got back-to-back shutouts from staff aces Mark Prior and Jim Barr on those days. Moreover, the two pitchers didn't just win, they dominated.

"That's about as good as it gets," said USC catcher Chad Moeller. "I could have caught those games in a rocking chair."

In Monday's 4-0 win over Oklahoma State, Prior one-hit the Cowboys. Only Monte Ferris' sixth-inning single stopped Prior from throwing the season's first no-hitter. Prior (9-4) walked one and struck out eight in his 106-pitch gem.

A day later, Barr four-hit Oklahoma State in a 2-0 victory.

"Those are the days we didn't always win a year ago," said Dedeaux of. "When our offense scored four runs or less, we didn't always hold the opposition down. This year, we're doing that."

Barr, the expected West All-Star starter, improved his AABL-high record to 15-1 by defeating Texas later in the week.

In addition to Prior and Barr, USC has seen its share of mound success. Left-handers Barry Zito (9-3), Randy Johnson (7-0) and Bill Lee (3-0) have been nearly unbeatable. Only right-hander Tom Seaver (4-6) has struggled.

"Tom will come around in the second half," said Moeller. "Just watch."

Closer Ray Lamb (shown below) has 22 saves and a sparkling 1.58 ERA.

"I wouldn't be surprised to see most of those guys on the West All-Star team," said Dedeaux.

Diamond Notes: Oklahoma State was held scoreless for 20 consecutive innings. After getting shut out by USC two straight days, the Cowboys didn't dent home plate until Mickey Tettleton singled home a run in the third inning off Stanford starter Jim Lonborg on the third day . . . Arizona State won nine games in a row to pull within five of first-place USC. The Sun Devils then lost three straight games to Cal. Arizona State now trails USC by eight at the break . . . Bob Hamelin won the West Player of the Week for the fourth time in his career. Hamelin batted .458 with seven RBIs to take the award . . . Arizona State manager Bobby Winkles will manage the West All-Star team by virtue of winning the division title last year.

League Leaders at the Break:
Batting--Fred Lynn, USC, .348
Home Runs--Bob Hamelin, UCLA, 28
RBIs--Dave Kingman, USC, 63
Runs Scored--Bob Hamelin, UCLA, 65
Stolen Bases--Jeffrey Hammonds, Stanford, 19

Wins--Jim Barr, USC, 15
ERA--Dave Schmidt, UCLA, 1.35
Strikeouts--Mark Prior, USC, 148
Saves--Trevor Hoffman, Arizona, 23

West Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Southern California 58 23 .716 --
Arizona State 50 31 .617 8.0
UCLA 49 32 .605 9.0
Stanford 45 36 .556 13.0
California 41 40 .506 17.0
Arizona 40 41 .494 18.0
Texas 38 43 .469 20.0
San Diego State 30 51 .370 28.0
Cal State Fullerton 29 52 .358 29.0
Oklahoma State 25 56 .309 33.0

[batted balls]

June 29, 2007

Austin, Tex.--The stars are bright, and they will come out tomorrow night for the All-American Baseball League's All-Star Game at Disch-Falk Field.

"It's going to be quite an event," said Bobby Winkles, Arizona State manager who will run the West squad. "It's an event we expect to win, of course."

While Texas is the host team this season, the Longhorns will have no players representing them on the West All-Stars. In fact, only six of the 10 teams in the West are represented. In addition to Texas, Cal State Fullerton, San Diego State and Oklahoma State did not receive an All-Star invitation.

"That's something we need to look at," said Texas manager Cliff Gustafson. "I'm not just saying that for my team. There's deserving players getting left behind."

The West roster is dominated by the Southern California Trojans. USC (58-23) has 10 All-Stars, five of whom are pitchers. Center fielder Fred Lynn and designated hitter Aaron Boone, the West's top two batting leaders, will start. In addition, either Jim Barr (15-1) or Mark Prior (9-4) will be the West starting pitcher.

"Jim pitched just three days ago," said Winkles. "I'll talk to Rod (Dedeaux, USC manager) and see what he wants to do."

Winkles has seven of his own Arizona State players on the roster. Four of those Sun Devils--Pat Listach, Reggie Jackson, Bob Horner and Mike Colbern--will be in the starting lineup.

Jackson's selection is the controversial one. The Sun Devil right fielder is batting just .238. Jackson's 16 home runs rank eighth in the West. His 48 RBIs are ninth best.

"That's the position I have an argument with," said Gustafson. "Those two guys from Stanford would have been better choices."

"Those two guys" are Cardinal outfielders Jeffrey Hammonds and Steve Hovley. Hammonds (.304-7-24) is the West leader with 19 stolen bases. Hovley (.302-6-25) had a record-tying 27-game hitting streak earlier this season. Both players are All-Star reserves.

"It's never easy to pick an All-Star team, it's even tougher to pick the starting lineup," said Winkles.

In the inaugural All-Star Game last season, the West defeated the East 6-4 at Eagles Nest Park, home of the AABL champion Ivy Eagles. Texas short stop Ron Gardenhire was the game's MVP. Gardenhire is batting just .230 this season.

2007 West All-Stars
P Jim Barr from Southern California
P Paul Moskau from Arizona State
P Dave Schmidt from UCLA
P Barry Zito from Southern California
P Floyd Bannister from Arizona State
P Gary Gentry from Arizona State
P Mark Prior from Southern California
P Tom House from Southern California
P Ray Lamb from Southern California
P Trevor Hoffman from Arizona
C Mike Colbern from Arizona State
C Todd Zeile from UCLA
1B Bob Hamelin from UCLA
2B Aaron Boone from Southern California
3B Bob Horner from Arizona State
SS Pat Listach from Arizona State
LF Sam Chapman from California
CF Fred Lynn from Southern California
RF Jeffrey Hammonds from Stanford
1B Mark McGwire from Southern California
RF Steve Hovley from Stanford
CF Kenny Lofton from Arizona
RF Reggie Jackson from Arizona State
3B Dave Kingman from Southern California
2B Jason Bates from Arizona

Starting Lineup
Pat Listach-SS, ASU
Reggie Jackson-RF, ASU
Fred Lynn-CF, USC
Bob Hamelin-1B, UCLA
Bob Horner-3B, ASU
Aaron Boone-DH, USC
Sam Chapman-LF, Cal
Jason Bates-2B, AZ
Mike Colbern-C, ASU

Jim Barr or Mark Prior-SP, USC

[batted balls]

June 29, 2007

Austin, Tex.--While controversy surrounded the West All-Star team selection, East managers are happy with the balance of their squad.

"It's about as fair as fair could be," said Illinois manager Tom Dedin. "(Ivy manager) Bob Seddon did a stellar job."

Seddon, manager of the East All-Stars since his Eagles won the East last year, made sure all 10 East teams were represented.

"That's certainly something he didn't have to do," said Michigan State mangaer John Kobs.

Seddon did select five of his own players; three will start. Four LSU players were picked for the All-Star squad. Two--second baseman Warren Morris and left fielder Joe Adcock--will be in the starting lineup. The Tigers are the East's sixth-place team.

"That tells me we should be doing better," said LSU manager Skip Bertram.

Three players were each chosen from Mississippi State, Illinois and Michigan. A year ago, the Wolverines had no All-Stars.

"We've proven we belong by our play this year," said Michigan pitcher Geoff Zahn.

Despite being just a game behind Ivy in the standings, Miami has only two players--pitcher Neal Heaton and catcher Mike Piazza--named to the All-Star team.

"Perhaps that will be some motivation for us in the second half," said Miami manager Ron Fraser.

Last-place Michigan State also has two All-Stars, third baseman Steve Garvey and outfielder Kirk Gibson. Both will start.

"We're pretty excited about the whole thing," said Gibson. "Hopefully, we won't disappoint."

Florida State, Notre Dame and Minnesota each landed one player on the East All-Stars.

"We like our chances," said Seddon of Wednesday's Midsummer Classic at Disch-Falk Field. "Especially since we lost (6-4) last year."

2007 East All-Stars
P Dave Ferriss from Mississippi State
P Jonathan Papelbon from Mississippi State
P Jim Beattie from Ivy
P Fred Beebe from Illinois
P Jeff Innis from Illinois
P Neal Heaton from Miami
P Geoff Zahn from Michigan
P Paul Byrd from Louisiana State
P Bobby Thigpen from Mississippi State
P Dave Sisler from Ivy
C Mike Piazza from Miami
C Dan Wilson from Minnesota
1B Lou Gehrig from Ivy
2B Charlie Gehringer from Michigan
3B Cap Anson from Notre Dame
SS Hughie Jennings from Ivy
LF Joe Adcock from Louisiana State
CF Hoot Evers from Illinois
RF Mark Gilbert from Florida State
1B George Sisler from Michigan
RF Albert Belle from Louisiana State
LF Kirk Gibson from Michigan State
RF Sam Mele from Ivy
3B Steve Garvey from Michigan State
2B Warren Morris from Louisiana State

Starting Lineup
Cap Anson-3B, Notre Dame
Steve Garvey-DH, Michigan State
Mike Piazza-C, Miami
Lou Gehrig-1B, Ivy
Warren Morris-2B, LSU
Joe Adcock-LF, LSU
Sam Mele-RF, Ivy
Kirk Gibson-CF, Michigan State
Hughie Jennings-SS, Ivy

Fred Beebe-SP, Illinois

[batted balls]

June 30, 2007

Austin, Tex.--Bob Hamelin has just kept getting better this season. In Wednesday night's All-Star Game, the UCLA first baseman was at his best.

Hamelin went 3-for-3 with four RBIs to lead the West to a 6-2 All-Star victory and earn MVP honors.

"First of all, it's an honor just to be here," said Hamelin. "Then to win the game and be named MVP is almost too much."

For a time, it looked as though the East would gain revenge for last year's loss in the inaugural All-American Baseball League All-Star Game. The East jumped out to a 2-0 lead by scoring a pair of runs off eventual winner Jim Barr of Southern California.

"They did what we (West hitters) haven't been able to do much of this season, score off Jim," said Arizona State's Bobby Winkles, manager of the West.

Barr, an AABL-best 15-1, had a 1.29 ERA during June. The right-hander was far from his best against the East, allowing two runs on six hits in his three innings of work.

"Maybe I was a little tired from pitching just a few days ago," Barr said. "My fastball didn't have much movement and my breaking balls didn't have much bite."

The West offense did however. Hamelin led off the second with a double against East starter Fred Beebe of Illinois. One out later, Mark McGwire doubled him home to cut the East lead to 2-1.

Then came the inning that decided the game's outcome, the bottom of the third. A trio of Arizona State batters set the stage. Sun Devil catcher Mike Colbern singled off Beebe to open the frame. Teammate Pat Listach walked. ASU's Reggie Jackson then blooped a single to left field, loading the bases.

"That was the thunder, then came the lightning," said Winkles.

East manager Bob Seddon of Ivy replaced Beebe with Dave "Boo" Ferriss of Mississippi State. Fred Lynn of USC greeted Ferriss, the East ERA leader, with a run-scoring single to tie the game. Hamelin, the AABL leader with 28 home runs, followed with a bases-clearing double to give the West a 5-2 lead. Hamelin was thrown out attempting to stretch his hit into a triple.

"That's about the only mistake he made all day," said Seddon.

The West All-Stars added their final run in the sixth inning when Hamelin singled home Jackson with two outs.

The East's only real offensive threat came in the fifth. But with two on and one out, USC's Mark Prior got Lou Gehrig of Ivy to ground into an inning-ending double play.

After that, Winkles marched four different West pitchers to the mound for the final four innings. Those pitchers--Gary Gentry (Arizona State), Barry Zito (USC), Trevor Hoffman (Arizona) and Ray Lamb (USC)--held the East hitless.

Diamond Notes: Both Winkles and Seddon managed to get all their position players into the game. Those who didn't see action were all pitchers. For the West those not taking the mound were Floyd Bannister and Paul Moskau of Arizona State, Dave Schmidt of UCLA and Tom House of USC. Only Jeff Innis of Illinois and Bobby Thigpen of Mississippi State did not pitch for the East . . . the controversial selection of Arizona State's Reggie Jackson as the starting right fielder for the West proved to be a moot point. Jackson went 3-for-4 with a double and scored two runs . . . The East scored its first run after the first two batters were retired. Mike Piazza (Miami), Lou Gehrig (Ivy) and Warren Morris (LSU) all singled to produce the run . . . the East's second run scored on a sacrifice fly by Cap Anson (Notre Dame) . . . For the second straight year, a USC pitcher earned the victory. While Jim Barr won this year's game, Mark Prior earned the victory last season . . . East starter Fred Beebe of Illinois was the game's losing pitcher . . . Hamelin walked in his final at-bat.

WEST 6, EAST 2

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E
East All-Stars 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 8 0
West All-Stars 0 1 4 0 1 0 0 0 X 6 13 0


East All-Stars AB R H RBI BB K AVG HR RBI
C. Anson 3B 3 0 1 1 0 0 .346 0 32
S. Garvey DH 2 0 0 0 0 0 .313 4 29
C. Gehringer DH 1 0 0 0 1 0 .327 2 37
M. Piazza C 4 1 2 0 0 0 .275 12 35
L. Gehrig 1B 4 0 1 0 0 0 .278 12 60
W. Morris 2B 4 0 2 1 0 0 .299 9 32
J. Adcock LF 2 0 0 0 0 0 .303 3 42
G. Sisler PH 1 0 0 0 0 0 .272 4 45
H. Evers CF 1 0 0 0 0 0 .285 2 23
S. Mele RF 2 1 1 0 0 0 .277 3 34
M. Gilbert LF 1 0 0 0 0 0 .315 4 37
D. Wilson PH 1 0 0 0 0 0 .279 3 22
K. Gibson CF,RF 2 0 1 0 0 0 .271 6 39
A. Belle RF 1 0 0 0 0 1 .275 8 40
H. Jennings SS 2 0 0 0 0 1 .272 3 26
Totals 31 2 8 2 1 2

BATTING
Runs Batted In: C. Anson (32), W. Morris (32)
Caught Stealing: C. Gehringer (3)
Sacrifice Hits: H. Jennings (6)
Sacrifice Flies: C. Anson (3)

West All-Stars AB R H RBI BB K AVG HR RBI
P. Listach SS 4 1 1 0 1 0 .270 3 25
R. Jackson RF 4 2 3 0 0 1 .246 16 48
S. Hovley RF 1 0 0 0 0 0 .301 6 37
F. Lynn CF 4 1 1 1 0 0 .346 16 53
K. Lofton CF 0 0 0 0 0 0 .303 4 39
B. Hamelin 1B 3 1 3 4 1 0 .311 28 61
B. Horner 3B 3 0 1 0 0 1 .330 20 53
D. Kingman 3B 0 0 0 0 1 0 .239 19 63
M. McGwire DH 4 0 1 1 0 1 .259 20 60
S. Chapman LF 2 0 0 0 0 0 .276 17 45
J. Hammonds LF 2 0 1 0 0 0 .305 7 41
J. Bates 2B 2 0 0 0 0 0 .319 8 37
A. Boone 2B 2 0 0 0 0 1 .343 7 34
M. Colbern C 2 1 1 0 0 0 .303 8 35
T. Zeile C 2 0 1 0 0 0 .236 7 40
Totals 35 6 13 6 3 4

BATTING
Doubles: R. Jackson (7, 5th inning off Heaton, 0 on, 1 out.) B. Hamelin 2 (18, 2nd inning off Beebe, 0 on, 0 out, 3rd inning off Ferriss, 3 on, 0 out.) M. McGwire (12, 2nd inning off Beebe, 1 on, 1 out.)
Runs Batted In: F. Lynn (53), B. Hamelin 4 (61), M. McGwire (60)
Stolen Bases: P. Listach (1)


East All-Stars IP H R ER BB K HR PI PS ERA RECORD
F. Beebe L 2 5 4 4 1 1 0 36 23 2.71 10-6
D. Ferriss 1 2 1 1 0 1 0 15 9 1.13
J. Beattie 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 17 9 2.58
N. Heaton 0.2 3 1 1 0 0 0 12 8 2.34
J. Papelbon 0.1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 2 1.67
P. Byrd 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 8 5 1.11
D. Sisler 1 1 0 0 2 1 0 21 11 0.88
G. Zahn 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 20 11 2.09

PITCHING
Batters Faced: F. Beebe 11, D. Ferriss 4, J. Beattie 3, N. Heaton 5, J. Papelbon 1, P. Byrd 3, D. Sisler 6, G. Zahn 5
Ground Balls-Fly Balls: F. Beebe 3-1, D. Ferriss 1-0, J. Beattie 3-0, N. Heaton 1-1, J. Papelbon 0-1, P. Byrd 0-2, D. Sisler 1-1, G. Zahn 2-1
Game Score: F. Beebe 26


West All-Stars IP H R ER BB K HR PI PS ERA RECORD
J. Barr W 3 6 2 2 0 0 0 43 30 1.74 16-1
M. Prior H 2 2 0 0 0 1 0 23 14 2.41
G. Gentry 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 4 1.44
B. Zito 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 11 6 1.65
T. Hoffman 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 15 6 2.93
R. Lamb 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 7 1.55

PITCHING
Batters Faced: J. Barr 15, M. Prior 7, G. Gentry 3, B. Zito 3, T. Hoffman 3, R. Lamb 3
Ground Balls-Fly Balls: J. Barr 5-3, M. Prior 3-1, G. Gentry 1-2, B. Zito 0-2, T. Hoffman 0-2, R. Lamb 1-2
Game Score: J. Barr 37


GAME INFO
Time: 3:28
Attendance: 48561 (48600) at Disch-Falk Field
Weather: Clear skies (95 degrees), wind blowing right to left at 7 mph
PLAYER OF THE GAME: Bob Hamelin (shown below)

[batted balls]

July 3, 2007

Miami pitcher Neal Heaton and Michigan second baseman Charlie Gehringer have been chosen as June's East Pitcher and Player of the Month respectively, All-American Baseball League officials announced.

Heaton sported a 5-0 record with a 0.91 ERA during June. The Miami left-hander, who also pitched a one-hit shutout, is 8-3 with a 2.28 ERA. Heaton pitched for the East in the recent All-Star Game.

"It's nice to be recognized by the league," said Heaton. "It shows your hard work is paying off, and that you're helping your team."

Gehringer, meanwhile, batted .413 in June. The Michigan rookie is second in the East in batting with a .328 average. His 37 RBIs rank him tenth. Like Heaton, Gehringer also played in the All-Star Game.

"One of his real strengths in his batting eye," said Michigan manager Don Lund. "He doesn't swing at many bad pitches."

Gehringer, the leading candidate for Rookie of the Year, has walked 49 times, fifth best among East leaders.

"I'm just trying to swing at good pitches, put the bat on the ball and help my club win," said Gehringer (shown below).

Diamond Notes: Florida State short stop Dick Howser will attempt to keep alive his East record 23-hitting streak. Howser is four games away from tying Hubie Brooks (Arizona State) and Steve Hovley (Stanford) from the AABL mark of 27 consecutive games . . . The season's second half begins with 4th of July games that will feature a variety of salutes to America. The festivities include patriotic food, fireworks and free parking. The schedule is listed below:

Florida State at Illinois
Michigan at Michigan State
Miami at Mississippi State
LSU at Minnesota
Notre at Ivy

[batted balls]

July 3, 2007

Arizona State pitcher Gary Gentry and UCLA first baseman Bob Hamelin have been chosen as June's West Pitcher and Player of the Month respectively, All-American Baseball League officials announced.

Gentry posted a 2-0 record with a minuscle 0.39 ERA during the month. The Sun Devil right-hander is 7-1 with a 1.45 ERA for the season. Gentry, who pitched in the recent All-Star Game, has two shutouts.

"It's always an honor to be selected for such an award," said Gentry (shown below). "Now, it's time to get back to business for the second half."

Hamelin is coming off an All-Star MVP performance. The UCLA first baseman had three hits and four RBIs as the West defeated the East 6-2. Hamelin batted .322 with 14 home runs and 25 RBIs in June.

"It's great to win the Player of the Month," said Hamelin. "I'd like my recent success to carry over into the second half of the season."

Hamelin is the AABL home run leader with 28 and runs scored with 65. He has homered in three straight games. Hamelin ranks fourth in RBIs (57) and sixth in batting (.303) among West leaders.

The Player of the Month is Hamelin's second in his career.

Diamond Notes: In an effort to pull out of its recent tailspin, Cal State Fullerton made some roster moves following the All-Star Game. The Titans, 29-52, placed pitcher Adam Johnson on the 15-day disabled list. Pitcher Matt Wise was activated from the DL. First baseman Dann Howitt and outfielder Kevin Reimer were demoted to the minors; outfielders Mark Kotsay and Reed Johnson were called up to the Titans.

July 4 Schedule
Cal at Oklahoma State
Texas at UCLA
San Diego State at Stanford
Arizona at Cal State Fullerton
Arizona State at Southern California

[batted balls]

July 5, 2007

Champaign, Ill.--Dick Howser stood in the on-deck circle hoping for one more at-bat. When J.D. Drew grounded out, Howser realized both the game and his hitting streak were over.

"I had my chances earlier (to extend the hitting streak)," said Howser. "I was hoping to bat because that would mean we had a rally going."

Illinois defeated Florida State 4-1 as Illini pitcher starter Carl Lundgren (4-8) held Howser hitlesss in four at-bats. Howser, whose average dropped to .257, grounded out twice, struck out and flied to right.

"It was a great run," said Howser who fell three games short of the All-American Baseball League record held jointly by Arizona State's Hubie Brooks and Stanford's Steve Hovley. "I enjoyed it beacause it meant I was really helping my team."

Howser nearly got a fifth at-bat. Due up fourth in the ninth inning, Florida State went down in order against Illini closer Donn Pall (19 saves).

"I really wanted to get on base for Dick to have a chance," said Drew. "It wasn't meant to be."

Howser's 24-game hitting streak gives him the East record. The previous mark was 18 set by Albert Belle of LSU earlier this year. Howser batted .406 (26-for-64) during his hitting streak.

Illinois won the game despite being outhit 6-3. Two of the three Illini hits were home runs however. Herb Plews hit a two-run homer and George Halas added a solo shot off loser Paul Wilson (5-7).

[batted balls]

Max Mercy, Jr. here again, folks . . .

There's a power shortage. Sure, you're saying to yourself, there goes Ole Max again, last column he complained about gas prices . . . now he's he's taking on the power companies.

Well, folks, Ole Max isn't taking on any power companies (at least not yet). No, Ole Max is comparing the power in the West to the power in the East. No, folks, not the West and East of the United States of America . . . the West and East of the All-American Baseball League.

All the power seems to be in the West. Look at the numbers. Bob Hamelin of UCLA leads the West with 31 home runs. Mike Piazza of Miami tops the East with just 14. In fact, [I]eight[I] players the West have higher homer totals than Piazza. If you added up all the longball total from the rosters of the recent All-Star Game, the West outhomers the East 186-75! A year ago, Mark McGwire of Southern Cal (54 home runs) more than doubled East leader Lou Gehrig of Ivy (21)!

Some would argue that the East has better pitching than the West. Maybe that's true to a degree, but is it that much better? Some would point out that the ballparks out West are smaller than those out East. While it's true that the two smallest parks are found in the West, it's still only two ballyards. Others say it has something to do with atmospheric and weather conditions. Ole Max isn't buying that one either.

So, what does all this prove? Nothing really. In fact, remember that the defending AABL champion resides in the East. Remember Scotty the Engineer from the old "Star Trek" TV series yelling about not having any power? Perhaps Scotty played ball out East.

This is Max Mercy, Jr. signing off until next time . . .

[batted balls]

July 9, 2007

Champaign, Ill. & Austin, Tex.--All-American Baseball League history was nearly made Friday night. But in the end, two pitchers who flirted with the record books wound up only with losses in their ledgers.

Fred Beebe of Illinois and Roger Clemens of Texas came within eye lashes of throwing no-hitters--and on the same day.

Beebe, who started the All-Star Game for the East, had his near no-hitter against defending AABL champion Ivy. Beebe began the ninth inning with a 1-0 lead. The Illini right-hander walked Steve Yerkes to open the frame. Bebee then retired fellow All-Star Hughie Jennings on a pop out. That brought up Ivy first baseman and reigning Golden Spikes Award winner Lou Gehrig.

"I may have been too carefull with Gehrig," said Beebe after the game.

After falling behind in the count, Bebee grooved a fastball down the middle. Gehrig lined it for a double into the right-center field gap. Yerkes stopped at third.

Ivy then tied the score as Sam Mele lofted a sacrifice fly to right. Roy Thomas then singled home Gehrig with what proved to be the game-winning run.

"I may have lost my focus when I needed it most," said Bebee (shown below).

Bebee, who walked four and struck out five, threw 120 pitches. The loss dropped his record to 11-6. Jeff Musselman (3-0) picked up the win for Ivy. Chris Young notched his seventh save with a flawless ninth.

Meanwhile, Clemens pitched even better than Bebee. The problem was, his Longhorn teammates couldn't score against Oklahoma State starter Joe Horlen.

Clemens hurled no-hit ball against the Cowboys through nine innings. In fact, Clemens walked none and struck out eight. Only an error by first baseman Joe Hague kept Clemens from being perfect. Then came the 10th inning.

After retiring the first Oklahoma State batter, Clemens lost his no-hitter when Jerry Adair doubled over the head of Texas center fielder Ernie Koy. With Clemens' pitch count at 105, Texas manager Cliff Gustafson pulled him in favor of reliever Ricky Wright.

"I was worried about Roger's arm and his head," said Gustafson.

Moments later, Wright gave up the game's only run on a Pete Incaviglia double. Relievers Scott Baker and Mike Henneman retired the Longhorns in order to preserve the Oklahoma State victory.

"It's a crying shame that we didn't score for Roger," Gustafson said. "Maybe next time I'll hand Roger a bat."

Clemens said, "Sure, it hurts. I'm a competitor. It hurts to get so close, but that's baseball for you."

The hard-luck loss dropped Clemens' record to 8-8. Horlen, who allowed six hits and walked only one, improved to 5-10.

No pitcher has thrown a no-hitter this season. There were two last year. Ironically, the first came from an Oklahoma State pitcher (Allie Reynolds). The other was thrown by an Illinois hurler (John Ericks).