College Baseball

[batted balls]

April 5, 2008

Tempe, Ariz.--If the first week of the All-American Baseball League West season is any indication, then the Southern California Trojans should be nervous.

The defending champions have lost three of their first four games and reside in last place. USC dropped two of three games in its opening series at Arizona. The Trojans followed that up with a 3-2 loss in 10 innings at Arizona State.

"I'm not concerned at all," said USC manager Rod Dedeaux. "Look at the scores. Every game so far has been decided by one or two runs. It's way too early in the year to panic."

Dedeaux's words may be true, but the USC offense has been sorely lacking. The Trojans are batting a league-worst .184 with just two home runs (both by All-Star Dave Kingman).

"Our bats will come around," said Kingman. "We're too good of a team for this to go on for long."

Meanwhile, West opponents hope otherwise.

"What Dave said is true," said Arizona State third baseman Bob Horner. "Let's just hope it takes longer than expected."

Diamond Notes: San Diego State first baseman Mark Grace won the West Player of the Week award. Grace (shown below) hit .588 and slugged .765 . . . UCLA first baseman Bob Hamelin hit his 100th career home run April 2 off Mike Couchee of San Diego State . . . Hamelin and teammate Troy Glaus are tied for the West lead with three home runs apiece . . . San Diego State left-hander Don Shaw got a no-decision in his first start of the season against UCLA. Shaw is 0-16 in his career . . . Texas manager Cliff Gustafson has given converted infielder Shane Halter four starts at catcher this season. Halter (.294-1-4) has moved ahead of Keith Moreland on the Longhorn depth chart.


Stat of the Week: Two-time batting champion Fred Lynn is hitless in his first 10 at-bats this season.

West Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Arizona 3 1 .750 --
UCLA 3 1 .750 --
Arizona State 2 2 .500 1.0
Cal State Fullerton 2 2 .500 1.0
Oklahoma State 2 2 .500 1.0
San Diego State 2 2 .500 1.0
Stanford 2 2 .500 1.0
Texas 2 2 .500 1.0
California 1 3 .250 2.0
Southern California 1 3 .250 2.0

[batted balls]

April 12, 2008

Starkville, Miss.--Timely hitting and strong starting pitching has been the secret to Illinois' early-season success.

"The pitching has been there nearly every game out," said Illinois manager Tom Dedin. "Our hitting won't wow you, but we've come through when the game has been on the line."

The results have Illinois tied for first place in the All-American Baseball League East with Miami. The Figthing Illini put together a five-game winning streak that spanned series with LSU and Florida State.

"We've played well on the road," said Dedin. "The warm Southern weather seems to agree with us."

Illini starters Fred Beebe, Carl Lundgren, Jeff Innis, John Ericks and Jake Theis have combined for a 1.94 team ERA. Beebe, a two-time All-Star, won the East Player of the Week Award. The veteran right-hander twirled a three-hit shutout in Sunday's series opener at Mississippi State.

Catcher Darrin Fletcher and second baseman Herb Plews are each hitting .400 in the early going. Center fielder Hoot Evers (shown below) and short stop Lou Boudreau have come through in key RBI situations.

"We're out to prove we belong in the race," said Fletcher, who hit .265 in 170 late-season at-bats a year ago.

Diamond Notes: Michigan's Charlie Gehringer extended his career-high hitting streak to 19 games with two hits Sunday. Florida State short stop Dick Howser set the East record with a 24-game hitting streak last year . . . Speaking of hitting, Michigan State second baseman Nick Picciuto has been tearing up the East. Picciuto, who batted just .188 last season, leads the division with a .486 average. The infielder has 18 hits in his first 37 at-bats this year . . . Miami closer Danny Graves has saved four games in five chances thus far.

Stat of the Week: Ivy first baseman Lou Gehrig's 57 career home runs rank him as the East's all-time leader. That career total, however, ranks him behind nine West home run hitters.

East Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Illinois 7 3 .700 --
Miami 7 3 .700 --
Michigan 6 4 .600 1.0
Florida State 5 5 .500 2.0
Ivy 5 5 .500 2.0
Michigan State 5 5 .500 2.0
Louisiana State 4 6 .400 3.0
Minnesota 4 6 .400 3.0
Mississippi State 4 6 .400 3.0
Notre Dame 3 7 .300 4.0

[batted balls]

April 12, 2008

Los Angeles--UCLA right fielder Ron Roenicke has always considered himself a slow starter. With two weeks gone in the 2008 season, Roenicke may need to reconsider things.

Roenicke, a career .255 hitter, has roared out of the gate. The 28-year-old leads the All-American Baseball League West with 19 RBIs. He ranks third in home runs, fourth in batting and fifth in runs scored.

"It's nice to get off to a start like this," said Roenicke. "It's great for me, and it's great for the team."

Roenicke won the West Player of the Week honors by batting .476 with three home runs and 15 RBIs in a seven-day span. Roenicke, who has four homers this season, has never hit more than six round-trippers in one season.

Meanwhile, UCLA has raced out to a 7-3 start. The Bruins find themselves in first place.

"First place would be a great home for us," said Roenicke (shown below).

Diamond Notes: Oklahoma State right-hander Allie Reynolds threw his fourth career shutout Sunday. Reynolds, who pitched the first no-hitter in AABL history two years ago, allowed just two hits in a 10-0 win over Cal . . . Two-time batting champion Fred Lynn broke an 0-for-18 string to open the season with his 100th career double. Unfortunately, Lynn then went hitless in his next 19 at-bats. The USC center fielder and last season's Golden Spikes Award winner is batting just .050 this year . . . Cal has lost four straight games, dropping its record to 2-8 . . . Jackie Robinson is off to the best start of his career. Robinson is second among West batting leaders with a .432 average . . . Gold Glove center fielder Oddibe McDowell of Arizona State missed two games with a pulled hamstring muscle.

Stat of the Week: UCLA right fielder Ron Roenicke is 9-for-12 (.667) with runners in scoring position. Roenicke has two home runs and 15 RBIs in those situations.

West Standings

Team W L PCT GB
UCLA 7 3 .700 --
Arizona State 6 4 .600 1.0
Cal State Fullerton 6 4 .600 1.0
Oklahoma State 6 4 .600 1.0
Texas 6 4 .600 1.0
Arizona 5 5 .500 2.0
Southern California 5 5 .500 2.0
San Diego State 4 6 .400 3.0
Stanford 3 7 .300 4.0
California 2 8 .200 5.0

[batted balls]

April 19, 2008

Bristol, Conn.--Brad Ausmus wants to put last season behind him.

"I really let myself and the team down last year," Ausmus said. "I don't want that to happen again."

Coming off an MVP performance in the 2006 College World Series, Ausmus saw his 2007 season go sour quickly. The Ivy catcher wound up batting just .192.

"I really got into a funk and never got out of it," Ausmus said. "It wasn't for lack of trying. I took early hitting nearly every day. Maybe it was just meant to be."

Ausmus rededicated himself this past off-season.

"I worked out every day and changed my diet," Ausmus said. "Seems like it's paying off in big ways."

His fast start earned Ausmus All-American Baseball League East Player of the Week honors. He hit .500 with seven RBIs for the seven-day stretch. It marked the second time in his career that Ausmus has won the POW award.

"I definitely appreciate it more the second time around," said Ausmus (shown below).

Ausmus is batting .356 with three home runs and 12 RBIs. He has a seven-game hitting string as well.

"It's only April," Ausmus said. "But this is the start I wanted."

Diamond Notes: Charlie Gehringer of Michigan is closing in on the AABL record for the longest hitting streak. Gehringer has hit in 26 straight games, just one shy of the mark set last season by Steve Hovley of Stanford . . . Illinois continues to surprise. The Fighting Illini have won seven on their last 10 games and remain in first place. Illinois leads in virtually every pitching category. Illini catcher Darrin Fletcher is batting a robust .459, tops in the East . . . Six-foot-10 left-hander Chris Young may take over a starting slot in the Ivy rotation. Both Pete Broberg (1-2, 4.95 ERA) and Ted Olson (0-2, 5.14) are struggling to get batters out . . . Mississippi State manager Ron Polk says the East is wide open. "Anybody can win it this year," said Polk. "It's not so much that Ivy has slid back, but rather that everyone else has really improved."

Stat of the Week: Ivy right-hander Jim Beattie's two wins this season give him a career total of 42 victories. That's just one shy of career leader Mark Prior of Southern California.

East Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Illinois 12 4 .750 --
Ivy 10 6 .625 2.0
Miami 10 6 .625 2.0
Florida State 9 7 .563 3.0
Michigan 9 7 .563 3.0
Michigan State 7 9 .438 5.0
Louisiana State 6 10 .375 6.0
Minnesota 6 10 .375 6.0
Mississippi State 6 10 .375 6.0
Notre Dame 5 11 .313 7.0

[batted balls]

April 19, 2008

Los Angeles--The past two seasons the All-American Baseball League West race has featured Arizona State and Southern California. This year, add UCLA to the pennant chase.

Despite cooling off a bit in the last week, the Bruins have the look of a team on a mission.

"We're out to win the pennant, make no mistake about it," said UCLA manager Art Reichle. "That should be the goal of every team."

Yet, every team doesn't have the talent of the Bruins.

UCLA's potent offense is led by a solid infield consisting of Bob Hamelin (.339-9-18), Troy Glaus (.266-8-19) and Jackie Robinson (.448-1-9). Add to the mix, designated hitter Chris Chambliss (.386-1-7) and outfielder Ron Roenicke (.327-4-18) and you've got one of the best lineups around.

The starting rotation certainly has benefitted from the offense. Yet, the Bruin pitchers have stepped up their game as well.

"We've always hit the ball well," said Reichle. "This year, we're pitching and fielding pretty well too."

Jim Parque, Bill Bonham, Dave Schmidt and Glen Mickens have combined to post an impressive 8-0 record. Closer Jim York, plagued by injuries in the past, has struck out 10 batters in just seven innings while racking up three saves.

"We intend on being in the race all summer long," said Parque.

Make room, Arizona State and Southern California.

Diamond Notes: Arizona State has put together a string of four consecutive wins and eight victories in its last 10 starts. The Sun Devils have moved into a first place tie with UCLA . . . Jackie Robinson (shown below) of UCLA won his second West Player of the Week award. Robinson, who leads the division with a .448 average, hit .476 with five RBIs for the week. The Bruin infielder is riding an 11-game hitting string. Robinson is batting an incredible .571 (7-for-9) with runners in scoring position . . . USC center fielder Fred Lynn continues to struggle at the plate. Last season's Golden Spikes Award recipient is batting a lowly .131 this year. Five of his six hits have gone for extra bases . . . San Diego State pitcher Don Shaw suffered losses to Southern California and Cal State Fullerton this week. The defeats mean Shaw is now 0-18 with a 4.76 ERA in his three-year career.

Stat of the Week: Defending two-time batting champion Fred Lynn has collected hits in just four of 16 games played this season.

West Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Arizona State 11 5 .688 --
UCLA 11 5 .688 --
Cal State Fullerton 9 7 .563 2.0
Oklahoma State 9 7 .563 2.0
Southern California 9 7 .563 2.0
Arizona 8 8 .500 3.0
Texas 8 8 .500 3.0
Stanford 6 10 .375 5.0
California 5 11 .313 6.0
San Diego State 4 12 .250 7.0

[batted balls]

April 26, 2008

Tallahassee, Fla. & Champaign, Ill.--After splitting a brief two-game series against one another, Illinois and Florida each won three of the next four games to continue the battle for supremacy in the All-American Baseball League East.

On Monday, the Illini pounded the Seminoles 9-4 as designated hitter Bobby Klaus drilled his third home run of the season. Florida State's fortunes changed on Tuesday, however, as right-hander John Wasdin mastered the Illini 8-1.

"Each game was indicative of its score," said Illinois manager Tom Dedin.

Illinois then took three of four games from last-place Notre Dame. All three Illini wins were of the one-run variety. Illinois is an amazing 10-3 in home games this year.

Florida State returned home to Tallahassee and wound up winning three of four games against Michigan. The series finale was a 12-inning affair that saw the Seminoles squeak out a 6-5 win on a Terry Kennedy base hit.

"It's fun to be playing so well," said Kennedy. "We want this string to continue."

Illinois holds a three-game lead over both Florida State and two-time defending East champion Ivy.

Diamond Notes: Notre Dame right-hander Ron Reed was activated Sunday and will likely join the Fighting Irish starting rotation. Reed, 10-11 last season, has been sidelined with a ruptured triceps muscle since late last year . . . Notre Dame All-Star third baseman Cap Anson already has two home runs this season. Anson hit only three homers in each of the past two years . . . Mississippi State's woes can be directly linked to the Bulldogs' inablility to hit. Mississippi State is batting just .236 as a team. Even more troubling is the fact that the Bulldogs are dead last in home runs (6) and runs scored (55) . . . Minnesota's Denny Neagle won the East Player of the Week Award. Neagle (shown below) evened his record at 2-2 by winning two games and posting a 0.63 ERA for the week.

Stat of the Week: First-place Illinois is 9-4 in one-run decisions this season.

East Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Illinois 16 6 .727 --
Florida State 13 9 .591 3.0
Ivy 13 9 .591 3.0
Miami 12 10 .545 4.0
Michigan 12 10 .545 4.0
Louisiana State 10 12 .455 6.0
Michigan State 9 13 .409 7.0
Minnesota 9 13 .409 7.0
Mississippi State 8 14 .364 8.0
Notre Dame 8 14 .364 8.0

[batted balls]

April 26, 2008

Tempe, Ariz.--With the first month of the season winding down, the UCLA Bruins continue to flex their muscles.

"We're out to win this thing, there's no doubt about it," said All-Star first baseman Bob Hamelin.

The Bruins are fresh off taking the final three games of a four-game showdown with Arizona State. After losing the series opener 2-1 in extra innings, UCLA outscored the Sun Devils 16-5 in the remaining three games.

"They played well," said Arizona State outfielder Reggie Jackson. "(But) it's a long way to October."

While that may be true, UCLA is taking the approach that every win gets it a step closer to a berth in the College World Series.

"Why can't we win it?" quipped Hamelin. "Don't be surprised if and when it happens."

Diamond Notes: Eric Karros, Bob Hamelin's backup at first base, got some rare playing for UCLA in the Arizona State series. Karros responded with two home runs . . . The Bruins handed Eddie Bane of Arizona State his first loss of the season in the series finale with an 8-4 victory . . . Oklahoma State infielder Danny Thompson was selected as the West Player of the Week. Thompson (shown below) was 12-for-24 (.500) with five RBIs on the week. Thompson and his Cowboy teammates are the early season surprise. A year ago, Oklahoma State lost 106 games and finished ninth. This year's team is tied with Arizona State for second place in the West . . . Southern Cal reliever Barry Latman is day-to-day with a sore elbow.

Stat of the Week: UCLA pitchers Bill Bonham, Jim Parque and Dave Schmidt are a combined 9-0 in their last 11 starts.

West Standings

Team W L PCT GB
UCLA 16 6 .727 --
Arizona State 13 9 .591 3.0
Oklahoma State 13 9 .591 3.0
Cal State Fullerton 12 10 .545 4.0
Southern California 12 10 .545 4.0
Texas 11 11 .500 5.0
Arizona 10 12 .455 6.0
Stanford 10 12 .455 6.0
California 7 15 .318 9.0
San Diego State 6 16 .273 10.0

[batted balls]

Tallahassee, Fla.--Michigan second baseman Charlie Gehringer still believes a walk is as good as a hit.

Gehringer had his record 28-game hitting streak snapped, but his Wolverines came from behind to edge Florida State 3-2.

"The streak was great," said Gehringer. "But it had to end sometime. The good news is that we rallied to win against a team in front of us in the standings."

Gehringer went hitless in his three official at-bats. Yet, he drew a key walk to ignite a ninth inning rally for the Wolverines.

"That just shows you how selfless Charlie is," said Michigan teammate Chris Sabo who doubled in both ninth-inning runs off Florida State reliever ace Craig Skok (1-1).

Gehringer collected a single in yesterday's game off Florida State starter Richie Lewis to break Stanford outfielder Steve Hovley's previous record of 27 straight games with a hit.

"It's nice to see your name added to the record book," said Gehringer, last year's East Rookie of the Year. "But, yesterday we lost (2-0). Today we won. That more important."

[batted balls]

With April winding down, it's time to look at each All-American Baseball League team in terms of strengths and weaknesses.

Here's a look at the East clubs:

Illinois--The Fighting Illini have fought their way to first place thanks to some stellar pitching and the full-time arrival of catcher Darrin Fletcher. The starting rotation of Fred Beebe, Carl Lundren, Jeff Innis and John Ericks has been unbelievable. Now comes word that manager Tom Dedin is replacing ineffective No. 5 starter Jake Thies with lefty Ken Holtzman. Fletcher has been the talk of the AABL. His bat has injected new life into an aging offense.

Florida State--Two years ago, the Seminoles were in contention for much of the season. Perhaps he's doing it with smoke and mirrors, but manager Mike Martin has FSU back in the hunt in '08. John Wasdin (3-1, 3.71 ERA) has been a consistent starter while Craig Skok (five saves) continues to close with the best of them.

Ivy--The two-time defending champs have slipped a bit, yet the Eagles remain a team that's hungry. Two-time Golden Spikes Award recipient Lou Gehrig (.300-6-15) remains the most dangerous bat in the East. Meanwhile, starters John Milligan (4-1, 2.70 ERA) and Ron Darling (3-0, 0.73) have taken huge strides forward.

Miami--Sure, the Hurricanes have struggled a bit. Sure, they seem to waste their talent more than perhaps any other team in the league. Yet, there's a perception that it's just a matter of time before the first-place moon arrives over Miami. John Fulgham (4-1, 1.14 ERA) and Danny Graves (five saves, 1.72) are two reasons why. Slugger Mike Piazza (.385-4-12) may just be on track to be fitted for a pair of Golden Spikes.

Michigan--Barring injury, Charlie Gehringer (.360-1-8) is a shoo-in for the All-Star slot at second base. Last year's surprise Golden Arm winner Geoff Zahn (3-1, 3.55 ERA) leads a capable starting rotation. Yet, there are concerns with short stop Barry Larkin (.243-0-4) and stopper Steve Howe (three saves, 6.43).

LSU--Brad Hawpe (.326-2-14) and Buddy Blair (.393-3-8) add even more punch to an already potent lineup. Yet, Tiger manager Skip Bertram continues to growl about his lackluster pitching.

Michigan State--The offense has improved primarily to the likes of Kirk Gibson (.306-0-6), Steve Garvey (.283-2-7) and surprising Nick Picciuto (.382-1-8). The pitching, however, is best summed up by promising yet inconsistent lefty Mark Mulder (0-3, 6.41 ERA).

Minnesota--Dave Winfield is finally coming off the disabled list from spring training ailments while Paul Molitor (.279-0-9) has attempted to shoulder the load. Brent Gates (.350-1-12) has been a tough out. Again, as with LSU and Michigan State, the pitching just has not been there. In an effort to shake things up, Kerry Ligtenberg has been handed the closer role.

Mississippi State--How can a team with Will Clark (.247-3-7) and Rafael Palmeiro (.291-0-3) struggle so much? Because that's all the Bulldogs have got.

Notre Dame--The Irish appear to have little fight left in them. Rumors are swirling that manager Pat Murphy may be gone by the All-Star break. Cap Anson (.319-2-11) and Carl Yastrzemski (.268-4-14) are the only players shining in the land of the Golden Dome.

[batted balls]

With April winding down, it's time to look at each All-American Baseball League team in terms of strengths and weaknesses.

Here's a look at the West clubs:

UCLA: Bruin manager Art Reichle has his club hitting on all cylinders. UCLA is finally getting the pitching that has long kept it from the top of the standings. Jim Parque (4-0, 1.50 ERA), Dave Schmidt (3-0, 2.75) and Bill Bonham (4-0, 1.50) have been nearly unhittable. The Bruin offense has been punishing opposing pitchers. Two-time All-Star Bob Hamelin (.337-12-27) and Troy Glaus (.268-10-27) have supplied plenty of pop. Jackie Robinson is having a breakthrough year and leads the West with a .392 average. Chris Chambliss (.358-2-12) and Ron Roenicke (.286-4-21) have also contributed.

Arizona State: The Sun Devils are struggling offensively. Arizona State's .228 team average ranks 18th in the AABL. Yet, the Sun Devils are second in home runs, thanks in large part to two-time All-Star Bob Horner (.273-6-15) and infielder Bump Wills (.292-4-9). Left-hander Eddie Bane leads the mound staff (3-1, 3.21 ERA). Paul Moskau, last season's Golden Arm Award winner, has just one win despite a 2.03 ERA.

Oklahoma State: Manager Gary Ward's Cowboys have rebounded from a disasterous '07 season. Oklahoma State's hitting has led the way (.279). Short stop Gary Green (.333-3-15), catcher Mickey Tettleton (.259-1-12) and third baseman Robin Ventura (.282-1-11) have been catalysts. Meanwhile, Pete Incaviglia (.247-1-2) is off to another slow start. Lefty Tim Borland (3-1, 2.28) has reverted to his All-Star form of two years ago. Closer Scott Williamson (five saves, 1.04) has provided strength at the back of the bullpen.

Cal State Fullerton: Augie Garrido's perennial losers have found winning to their liking this spring. Starter Jeff Robinson (2-0, 1.57 ERA) has emerged as the staff ace. Promising outfielder Dante Powell is third among West batting leaders (.367) while Phil Nevin (.355-0-2) and Dave Staton (.295-3-11) have also produced.

Southern California: The hangover from last fall's College World Series victory still looms over the Trojans. USC has crawled along at a .500 pace. Two-time batting champion and last year's Golden Spikes Award winner Fred Lynn (.163-3-8) has been in the biggest stupor of all. Twenty-three game winner Jim Barr is off to a 1-2 start with an inflated 5.75 ERA. Meanwhile, left-handed flamethrower Randy Johnson (4-0, 1.91, 35 strikeouts in 33 innings) has established himself as a dominating presence.

Texas: The Longhorns feature the league's best pitching staff. Hard-throwing right-hander Roger Clemens (3-1, 1.54 ERA, 36 Ks in 41 innings) has blossomed into a top-flight pitcher. Left-hander Ricky Wright (3-0, 1.52) has kept hitters off balance. Stopper Houston Street (three saves, 1.35) has been strong. Converted infielder-turned catcher Shane Halter (.299-2-9) has added offense.

Arizona: The Wildcats are a team that has been outhomered by UCLA first baseman Bob Hamelin (12-10). Batting just .230 as a team, Arizona has struggled to produce runs. Kenny Lofton (.342-0-12) has developed into a reliable leadoff man. Pitchers Joe Magrane (0-4, 4.65 ERA) and Trevor Hoffman (5.06 ERA) have been hit hard.

Stanford: Only All-Star right fielder Steve Hovley (.326-1-10) has been consistent. Jeffrey Hammonds, an All-Star selection a year ago, has slipped to the tune of a .237 average. Reserve outfielder Jody Gerut is out indefinitely with a broken foot. Even usually reliable closer Steve Chitren (two saves, 4.15 ERA) has stumbled.

Cal: The Golden Bears appear tarnished. Ranking dead last in hitting (.221) and 18th in pitching (4.45 ERA), Cal shows very little sign of life. Outfielder Jackie Jensen is the team's leading hitter with a .268 average while Bill "Bugs" Werle (3-1, 1.60 ERA) is the team's top pitcher.

San Diego State: The Aztecs are again last in team pitching with a 5.40 ERA. Opponents are batting .290 against a staff that has only one starter (Aaron Harang) who has broken into the win column. First baseman Mark Grace is second among West batting leaders at .375.

[batted balls]

April 26, 2008

Champaign, Ill.--Illinois catcher Darrin Fletcher has a pretty good idea why Minnesota's Dave Winfield was taken in the pro football draft.

"He hit me pretty hard," said Fletcher (shown below). "It was clean, but he really loaded up on me."

Winfield lowered his shoulder and attempted to knock the ball loose from Fletcher's grasp while trying to score on a second-inning single. While Fletcher was able to hang onto the ball and tag Winfield out, the play dislocated the Illini catcher's left shoulder.

"Our trainers and team doctor indicate that Darrin will miss at least seven weeks," said Illinois manager Tom Dedin. "You never know with something like this."

While Minnesota ran over Illinois 12-4 in the All-American Baseball League East game, the loss for the Illini goes far beyond Monday's contest.

"To lose Darrin is difficult right now," said Dedin. "But we've got to move on. We're still a first-place ballclub."

Fletcher will no doubt be sorely missed by Illinois. The 24-year-old catcher is the East's leading hitter with a .444 average. Fletcher also sported a .511 on-base percentage. In addition, he was slugging .506.

"Darrin's contributions go far beyond stats," said Illinois pitcher Fred Beebe. "He's really been our heart and soul this year."

Rube Novotney was called up from Triple-A to take Fletcher's roster spot. Illinois is also missing short stop Lou Boudreau, who is listed as day-to-day with a sprained toe.

"This will be a challenge for our team," said Dedin. "We're about to see what we're made of."

Game Notes: Minnesota designated hitter Bobby Fenwick drove home a career-high seven runs. Fenwick hit a first-inning grand slam off loser John Ericks (3-2) and then tripled home a run in the third. Later, Fenwick knocked in two more runs with a seventh-inning single . . . Minnesota scored seven runs in the first inning as Ericks failed to get a single out. Tom Fletcher, Darrin's father, came on in long relief for Illinois . . . Jim Brower (2-2) pitched six innings of five-hit ball to earn the win for the Golden Gophers.

[batted balls]

May 2, 2008

Champaign, Ill.--Despite the loss of hitting star Darren Fletcher, Illinois continues to hold onto first place in the All-American Baseball League East.

"As I said a few days ago, we'll see what we're made of," said Fighting Illini manager Tom Dedin.

Thus far, Illinois has held its own without Fletcher, the top hitter in the East who was sidelined with an April 26 shoulder injury. The Illini are 3-3 since losing their starting catcher.

"This team is more than just one player," said Dedin. "We just need to continue playing sound baseball."

Illinois features the East's third-best pitching staff with a team ERA of 2.58. The Illini are hitting .273 as a club, second best in the division. Yet, that number is expected to dip with Fletcher out of the lineup.

"The guys will fine without me for awhile," said Fletcher. "That being said, I can't wait to get back in the lineup."

Early reports indicate that the Illini catcher will miss at least seven weeks.

In the meantime, the Illini have split time between three catchers. While Jake Stahl (.222-0-8) and Rube Novotney (.308-1-5) have seen most of the action, Mark Delesandro (.280-0-1) has also gotten playing time.

Diamond Notes: Mark Guthrie of LSU was the East Player of the Week. Guthrie won two games, including a four-hit shutout of Michigan, and posted a 1.59 ERA . . .Ivy, 7-3 in its last 10 games, moved into second place behind Illinois. The two-time defending division champion Eagles are just three games behind the Illini . . . Lou Gehrig, twice named East Golden Spikes Award winner, leads the division with seven home runs . . . Bobby Fenwick of Minnesota has driven in 23 runs, tops in the East . . . George Sisler of Michigan is the division leader with a .364 average . . . The pitching category leaders include Miami's John Fulgham (five wins and a 1.12 ERA), Don Pall (eight saves) and Paul Wilson (36 strikeouts) . . . Mississippi State continues to struggle. Despite winning their last two games, the Bulldogs have dropped seven of their last 10. Mississippi State is tied with Notre Dame in the East cellar.

Stat of the Week: LSU batters have already struck out an incredible 172 times this season. That's 6.14 Ks per game.

East Player of the Month: Mike Piazza, Miami (shown below)

East Pitcher of the Month: Richie Lewis, Florida State

East Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Illinois 19 9 .679 --
Ivy 17 11 .607 2.0
Miami 16 12 .571 3.0
Florida State 15 13 .536 4.0
Louisiana State 14 14 .500 5.0
Michigan 14 14 .500 5.0
Michigan State 13 15 .464 6.0
Minnesota 12 16 .429 7.0
Mississippi State 10 18 .357 9.0
Notre Dame 10 18 .357 9.0

[batted balls]

May 2, 2008

Fullerton, Cal.--Don't look now, but the Southern California Trojans are making their move.

After a lackluster first five weeks of the All-American Baseball League season, the defending champion Trojans have broken out of their funk. USC has won six of its last eight games, trimming first-place UCLA's lead to four games in the West.

"You knew it was a matter of time," said Cal State Fullerton manager Augie Garrido who watched his Titans lose three of four to the Trojans. "USC has too much talent to keep play .500 ball."

The Trojans recent surge was headlined by pitchers Randy Johnson (5-0, 1.52 ERA) and Tom Seaver (4-0, 2.01).

"These are two guys we've been waiting for to really take off," said USC manager Rod Dedeaux. "They finally have."

Two-time batting champion Fred Lynn has also finally hit his stride. Lynn, off to a miserable start since Opening Day, is 10-for-his last 22.

"I'm not where I want to be yet, but I'm getting there," said Lynn, who raised his average to .226.

Meanwhile, fellow outfielder Steve Kemp has been even hotter. Kemp is 10-for-his last 20, upping his average to .340.

"That's one dangerous team right now," said Garrido. "They just might go right on by (second-place Arizona State and first-place UCLA) and never look back."

Diamond Notes: Arizona State infielder Bump Wills won the West Player of the Week Award . . . Mark Grace of San Diego State continues to lead the division in hitting with a .384 average . . . UCLA first baseman Bob Hamelin is the West leader with 14 homers and 31 RBIs . . . Bruce Ruffin of Texas tops the West pitchers with a 1.15 ERA . . . Randy Johnson of USC, Bill Bonham of UCLA and Roger Clemens of Texas all have won five games, best among West starting pitchers . . . USC's Mark Prior is the strikeout leader with 50 Ks while Trevor Hoffman of Arizona has a division-topping nine saves. Hoffman has tied Florida State's Craig Skok on the all-time saves list with 82.

Stat of the Week: San Diego State starter Don Shaw lasted just 1.1 innings in a 9-1 loss to Cal. Shaw is now 0-19 in his three-year career.

West Player of the Month: Bob Hamelin, UCLA

West Pitcher of the Month: Randy Johnson, Southern California (shown below)

West Standings

Team W L PCT GB
UCLA 21 8 .724 --
Arizona State 18 11 .621 3.0
Southern California 17 12 .586 4.0
Oklahoma State 15 14 .517 6.0
Arizona 14 15 .483 7.0
Cal State Fullerton 14 15 .483 7.0
Texas 14 15 .483 7.0
Stanford 12 17 .414 9.0
California 11 18 .379 10.0
San Diego State 9 20 .310 12.0

[batted balls]

This is Max Mercy, Jr. again, folks . . .

Ole Max has always been a fan of the underdog. Well, folks, it don't get any more under than Don Shaw, left-handed starting pitcher for the San Diego State Aztecs. See, folks, Mr. Shaw has lost all 19 of career decisions. That's right, 0-19 lifetime.

Ole Max has talked with Don Shaw on this matter (and other topics of varied themes) a handful of times. See, Ole Max, don't write you off just because you've lost a few ballgames.

Why is Ole Max writing this column, you ask? See, within the next few days Don Shaw will again toe the slab for San Diego State. Another start could become another loss. For those of you mathematically challenged, that would make Mr. Shaw's career record 0-20. Ole Max and the few Aztec fans that remain don't want to see this happen. So . . .

Ole Max is begging San Diego State manager Charlie Smith to hold a special team meeting. It's time for the Aztecs to put up so we all can shut up about this issue. Sure, Don Shaw has been lousy. He's got a lifetime ERA of 4.71. But, he's also been unfortunate to wear the Aztec uniform. This is a team that has been universally horrid.

It's time for the Aztec lineup to put runs on the board like they're going out of style. There are some good hitters in San Diego State uniforms. Mark Grace is leading the West in batting as we speak. Tony Gwynn can hit. So can Travis Lee (when he's not striking out). It's up to you fellas, hit the ball for the good of your team and the good of Don Shaw.

It's also time to play some defense behind him. Pete Coscarat, one-time Gold Glove second baseman, has turned into a real Iron Glove. The outfielders, with the exception of Gwynn, often turn would-be outs into extra-base hits. This has to stop.

If only for a day this all has to stop. It's time for the baseball planets to allign. It's for a nice guy like Don Shaw to win a ballgame. In the big picture, winning or losing a ballgame ain't that big a deal.

Then again, in the team picture, it should be a huge deal to get Don Shaw a win.

This is Max Mercy, Jr. signing off in hopes a Don Shaw victory . . .

[batted balls]

May 3, 2008

Fullerton, Calif.--The sad saga of Don Shaw continued Monday.

The 25-year-old left-hander lost his 20th consecutive decision as Cal State Fullerton scored a 3-1 victory over Shaw and the San Diego State Aztecs in All-American Baseball League West action.

"Don deserves better than this," said Aztec manager Charlie Smith. "He's a battler through and through."

Shaw, winless in 59 career starts over three seasons, allowed two runs in the first inning. Those runs came home on a two-out double by Cal State Fullerton first baseman Dave Staton.

"I hung him a breaking ball," said Shaw. "I've done that way too many times."

After retiring the first batter in the second inning, Shaw felt a twinge in his left elbow. Smith and head trainer Bill McGehee examined Shaw and decided to remove him from the game.

"We errored on the side of caution," said Smith.

Shaw, 0-4 on the season, allowed two runs on two hits in his 1.1 innings. He walked one and struck out one. Mike Couchee replaced Shaw and held Cal State Fullerton to just one more run--a solo homer by Aaron Rowand--in his 6.2 innings of work.

However, the San Diego State offense failed to score off Titan starter Kirk Saarloos and reliever Brent Billingsley in their eight innings. Closer Mike Schooler came out of the bullpen to pitch the ninth. After surrendering a leadoff home run to Pete Coscarart, Schooler retired the next three hitters for his fifth save. Saarloos earned the victory, improving his record to 2-3.

Shaw will be examined by team doctors later this week. Most likely, he will miss his next start and may be placed in the bullpen.

"That would take strain off his elbow," said Smith.

It would also take strain off his record-setting losing streak.

[batted balls]

May 10, 2008

Bristol, Conn.--The two-time defending champion Ivy Eagles have made their move. A four-game winning streak has lifted Ivy into first place in the All-American Baseball League East.

"We've finally begun to play like I knew we were capable of playing," said Ivy manager Bob Seddon.

The Eagles have won seven of their last 10 games, including a three-game sweep at Illinois.

"They're the defending champs," said Illinois manager Tom Dedin. "They came in here and kicked us around pretty good."

Ivy completed the sweep with 5-0 victory Sunday on a combined three-hitter by starter John Milligan (5-3) and reliever Bob Tufts.

Eagle starters Jim Beattie, Pete Broberg and Ted Olson are a combined 8-0 with a 0.89 ERA in their last 11 starts. Outfielder Bill Almon (.418 in his last seven games) and Brad Ausmus (.333 in his last eight games) have been offensive keys.

"We're getting contributions from the entire team," said Beattie, 5-1 on the season. "That's what you need to be a champion."

Diamond Notes: LSU pitcher Paul Byrd will miss three weeks with a strained bicep. Byrd is 3-2 with a 2.49 ERA . . . LSU activated two-time All-Star Joe Adcock from the disabled list to take Byrd's roster spot . . . Mark Guthrie, 5-1 for LSU, lost a no-hit bid when Michigan State's Nick Picciuto singled with one out in the seventh inning. Guthrie, last week's Player of the Week, wound up with his second shutout, a two-hitter against the Spartans . . . Meanwhile, Todd Walker of the LSU Tigers took the East Player of the Week award this time around. Walker, a .324 hitter on the year, batted .571 with seven RBIs in a six-game stretch. Walker is shown below.

Stat of the Week: A four-game winning streak has moved Miami right-hander Alex Fernandez into a tie with Jim Beattie (Ivy) and Mark Prior (Southern California) for the career lead in wins. Each pitcher has 45 victories.

East Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Ivy 23 13 .639 --
Illinois 21 15 .583 2.0
Miami 21 15 .583 2.0
Florida State 19 17 .528 4.0
Louisiana State 19 17 .528 4.0
Michigan 19 17 .528 4.0
Mississippi State 16 20 .444 7.0
Michigan State 15 21 .417 8.0
Minnesota 15 21 .417 8.0
Notre Dame 12 24 .333 11.0

[batted balls]

May 10, 2008

Fullerton, Calif.--Don Shaw didn't just snap his record-setting losing string, he chopped it into two.

The 25-year-old left-hander earned his first career victory and broke his 20-game losing streak Wednesday as San Diego State downed Cal State Fulleron 6-2 in All-American Baseball League West play.

"Sure, it's a relief," said Shaw after picking up the win out of the bullpen. "It's an unbelievable feeling to finally see my name alongside a W."

Shaw, 0-20 in 59 career starts, was replaced by Jerrod Riggan in the starting rotation. Wednesday's appearance was Shaw's first out of the bullpen.

"It was a nice change," said Shaw, making his first appearance since a slight elbow injury had shelved him last week. "The call came down (to the bullpen). I got up and got loose. The next thing I knew I was in the game."

Shaw's teammates were also excited by his first career win.

"Donny was long overdue, he deserved this," said Chris Gwynn whose two-run homer ignited the four-run rally to put San Diego State ahead for good in the eighth inning.

BOX SCORES San Diego State @ Cal State Fullerton
Game #: 309, (GAME LOG) , Tuesday, 5/4/2008

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E
San Diego State 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 0 6 10 2
Cal State Fullerton 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 6 0

San Diego State AB R H RBI BB K AVG HR RBI
B. Meacham SS 3 0 1 0 0 1 .214 0 5
E. Amelung LF 2 0 0 0 0 0 .150 0 5
G. Nettles 3B 3 2 1 0 2 1 .276 1 13
M. Grace 1B 5 1 1 0 0 2 .364 3 14
T. Lee DH 4 1 2 0 1 1 .209 5 14
D. Robinson CF 3 0 1 1 0 0 .230 2 11
T. Gwynn CF 2 1 1 2 0 0 .324 2 16
J. Nettles LF,RF 3 0 0 0 1 0 .240 0 11
C. Gwynn RF 3 1 1 1 0 0 .412 1 3
A. Newman SS 1 0 0 0 0 0 .053 0 0
P. Coscarart 2B 4 0 0 0 0 2 .179 3 10
J. Phillips C 4 0 2 2 0 0 .188 0 2
Totals 37 6 10 6 4 7

BATTING
Homeruns: C. Gwynn (1, 7th inning off Mathews, 0 on, 1 out.)
Runs Batted In: D. Robinson (11), T. Gwynn 2 (16), C. Gwynn (3), J.
Phillips 2 (2)

FIELDING
Errors: P. Coscarart (7), B. Meacham (6)


Cal State Fullerton AB R H RBI BB K AVG HR RBI
A. Rowand LF 5 0 0 1 0 1 .243 1 12
D. Whitmer C 4 0 0 0 1 1 .293 0 7
M. Lamb 3B 4 0 0 0 1 2 .192 0 7
D. Staton 1B 5 0 2 0 0 1 .304 3 13
D. Powell CF 3 0 0 0 1 2 .306 1 13
T. Wallach RF 4 1 2 0 0 0 .118 0 0
J. Mota 2B 3 1 0 0 1 0 .216 3 9
J. Giambi DH 4 0 1 1 0 0 .229 0 5
S. Turner SS 3 0 1 0 1 2 .253 2 12
Totals 35 2 6 2 5 9

BATTING
Doubles: T. Wallach (1, 2nd inning off Andrews, 0 on, 0 out.) J. Giambi
(1, 2nd inning off Andrews, 2 on, 0 out.)
Runs Batted In: A. Rowand (12), J. Giambi (5)

San Diego State IP H R ER BB K HR PI PS ERA RECORD
J. Andrews 6 6 2 2 5 5 0 119 65 2.21
D. Shaw W 3 0 0 0 0 4 0 39 26 7.71 1-4

PITCHING
Batters Faced: J. Andrews 30, D. Shaw 10
Ground Balls-Fly Balls: J. Andrews 9-5, D. Shaw 4-2
Game Score: J. Andrews 52

Cal State Fullerton IP H R ER BB K HR PI PS ERA RECORD
G. Mathews L 7 9 6 6 3 4 1 120 68 7.58 0-4
D. Naulty 1.2 1 0 0 1 3 0 32 21 2.76
C. Cordero 0.1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 4.50

PITCHING
Batters Faced: G. Mathews 33, D. Naulty 7, C. Cordero 1
Ground Balls-Fly Balls: G. Mathews 11-6, D. Naulty 0-2, C. Cordero 0-1
Game Score: G. Mathews 36

GAME INFO
Time: 3:47
Attendance: 6263 (45000) at Old League Park
Weather: Partly cloudy (69 degrees), wind blowing right to left at 8
mph

PLAYER OF THE GAME: Don Shaw (shown below)

Diamond Notes: In 59 career starts, San Diego State left-hander Don Shaw never earned a win. It took all of two consecutive days of relief appearances for Shaw to get back-to-back victories. After picking up his first career win Wednesday, Shaw was the winning pitcher in a 7-3 victory over Cal State Fullerton Thursday afternoon. Over the weekend, Shaw made two more relief appearances. He yielded no runs in two innings of mound work . . . Terry Francona of Arizona won his second West Player of the Week award. Francona hit .438 with two home runs and eight RBIs as he continued his 11-game hitting streak . . . Stanford right-hander Jack McDowell is out indefinitely with back spasms. McDowell is 4-3 with a 3.72 ERA.

Stat of the Week: UCLA first baseman Bob Hamelin is on a pace to break Mark McGwire's single-season record of 54 home runs. Hamelin leads the West with 17 home runs. Yet, the Bruin slugger is just 1-for-11 against Texas Longhorn pitching this season. His only hit is a bloop single off Bruce Ruffin.

West Standings

Team W L PCT GB
UCLA 25 11 .694 --
Arizona State 23 13 .639 2.0
Southern California 22 14 .611 3.0
Arizona 20 16 .556 5.0
Oklahoma State 18 18 .500 7.0
Cal State Fullerton 16 20 .444 9.0
Texas 16 20 .444 9.0
Stanford 15 21 .417 10.0
California 13 23 .361 12.0
San Diego State 12 24 .333 13.0

[batted balls]

Fans of the All-American Baseball League may be interested to note the passing of Sam Chapman. The link below contains the details. May he rest in peace.

http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/...122906abj.html

[batted balls]

Fans of the All-American Baseball League may wish to know that Ernie Koy has passed away. The link below contains the details. May he rest in peace.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/200....ap/index.html

[batted balls]

May 16, 2008

Champaign, Ill.--Illinois received more bad news on catcher Darrin Fletcher's shoulder injury.

"Our doctors have told us that Darrin needs at least 14 more days of sitting out," said Fighting Illini manager Tom Dedin.

Fletcher was leading the All-American Baseball League East in batting prior to an April 26 collision at home plate with Minnesota outfielder Dave Winfield. The collision damaged Fletcher's left shoulder. Illinois placed the likely All-Star on the disabled list the next day.

"We're biding our time right now," said Dedin. "There's no use rushing things and messing up Darrin long-term. Besides, we're holding our own."

Illinois, 24-18, is four games behind East-leading Ivy. The two-time defending champion Eagles have won nine of their last 10 games.

"Ivy is tough, there's no doubt about it," said Dedin. "But we can't worry about them. We have to go out and continue playing Fighting Illini baseball."

Illinois opens a six-game road trip Monday with three games at Notre Dame and three games at Minnesota. Ivy, meanwhile, hosts the Golden Gophers for three before traveling to Florida State for a three-game series.

Diamond Notes: Ivy right-hander Ted Olson earned East Player of the Week honors by picking up two wins in the last seven days. Olson's latest victory came on an eight-inning, two-hit performance at Miami . . . With Darrin Fletcher of Illinois sidelined, LSU infielder Buddy Blair has taken over the East lead with a .358 average. Charlie Gehringer of Michigan is second (.342) and Juan Bonilla of Florida State (.331) is third . . . Notre Dame left fielder Carl Yastrzemski (shown below) hit two more home runs this week. Yaz is now tied with Lou Gehrig of Ivy for the division lead with nine homers. He leads the East with 29 RBIs, one better than Gehrig . . . Ivy closer Dave Sisler appears to have recovered his form after stumbling earlier this season. Sisler has seven saves to go along with a 1.46 ERA. Sisler has struck out nine batters in 12.1 innings.

Stat of the Week: Since starting the season 0-2, Ivy right-hander Ted Olson has won four straight decisions.

East Standings

Team W L PCT GB
Ivy 28 14 .667 --
Illinois 24 18 .571 4.0
Louisiana State 23 19 .548 5.0
Miami 23 19 .548 5.0
Michigan 21 21 .500 7.0
Florida State 20 22 .476 8.0
Minnesota 19 23 .452 9.0
Mississippi State 19 23 .452 9.0
Michigan State 17 25 .405 11.0
Notre Dame 16 26 .381 12.0