Jan 2 2015 collegiate baseball

Collegiate Baseball The Voice Of Amateur Baseball Started In 1958 At The Request Of Our Nation’s Baseball Coaches Vol. 58, No. 1

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Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Will Flat Seam Ball Change Game?

New ball expected to travel 0 feet further on hard hit balls due to ‘drag effect’ through the air.

By LOU PAVLOVICH, JR. Editor/Collegiate Baseball

I

Flat Seam Ball

NDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — For the first time in 155 years of college baseball, teams will utilize the flat seam baseball during the spring season which is expected to infuse more offense into the game.

NCAA Division I, II and III championships will use the flat seam ball in 2015 which means teams in these divisions will use the ball throughout the regular season.

The NAIA championship will also use the flat seam ball in 2015 as schools use the ball during the season.

NJCAA Division I, II and III championships will use the flat seam See GRIPPING BALLS, Page

High Seam Ball

The new flat seam ball should add offense but may also cause problems for pitchers in frigid weather.

Cumberland’s Amazing Woody Hunt

Virginia’s Karl Kuhn Wins Pitching Coach Of Year With Incredible System Improves velocity of his pitchers 3-10 mph with cutting edge plan for arm health.

By LOU PAVLOVICH, JR. Editor/Collegiate Baseball

C

CELEBRATION TIME — Cumberland (TN) Head Coach Woody Hunt (holding 01 NAIA national championship trophy) is a remarkable teacher who always gets the best out of his players on the field and in life. For the complete story of this remarkable man who has posted a 1, 5 -60 - record in 33 years of coaching and won three NAIA national titles, please turn to page 10.

HARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Karl Kuhn, one of the elite coaches in the game, has been named Collegiate Baseball’s 2014 Pitching Coach of The Year.

Sponsored by EDGE charting software and web stats, the award is in its 12th year.

The University of Virginia pitching coach will receive the award at the American Baseball Coaches Association Convention in Orlando, Fla. Jan. 4 at the Orlando World Center Marriott.

Entering his 12th season with the Cavaliers, Kuhn has been a pitching coach for 23 years.

This special look at one of the great teachers in the game delves into a number of areas:  Why incoming pitchers are immediately tested to find out the most efficient way they learn and how Kuhn utilizes this

Inside Collegiate Baseball Special College Preview Section All the top teams spotlighted, as well as players, in rundown of nation’s elite for 015/Pages 12-47

Trivia Question For The Ages Can you name 0 baseball game stoppages that have all happened in college, pro contests?/Page 4

KARL KUHN information.  Importance of intense mound visits.  Why showing no emotion is vital for pitchers.  Holding pitchers accountable is crucial.  The importance of tough, competitive bullpens.  Special protocol that keeps See KARL KUHN’S, Page 6

Web Site: www.baseballnews.com Top Draftable College Players CB looks at the best players who have a chance of being chosen in top rounds next spring/Page 31

Collegiate Baseball

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Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Gripping Balls In Cold Weather May Be Challenge Continued From Page 1

ball beginning with the 2016 championship as junior colleges switch to these balls during the 2016 season.

Northwest junior colleges (Washington, Oregon, British Columbia) within the Pacific Association Division will use flat seam balls in 2015 while California junior colleges will wait until 2016 to utilize them.

Since BBCOR specification bats have been required with the 2011 season, offensive numbers have plummeted in college baseball.

The poster child for lack of offense took place at the 2013 and 2014 NCAA Division I College World Series.

Only three home runs were hit in 14 games in 2013 while only three were hit in 16 games last June. It marked the lowest home run total since 1966 when only two home runs were hit in 15 games.

From an all-time high of 62 homers at the 1998 College World Series, the numbers have sunk lower and lower with 9 in 2011, 10 in 2012 and 3 the last two years.

Numbers the last three years have closely mirrored the wood bat era in college baseball which took place up to the 1973 season.

After several months of testing at the NCAA Bat Certification lab during the summer of 2013 at Washington State University, results showed that the flat seam ball will travel further than a raised seam ball due to the “drag effect.”

The greater the distance a ball travels, the greater the drag effect.

The test was conducted with an average ball exit speed from a

PLENTY OF USE — The flat seam ball will be used in all NCAA championships during the 2015 season as well as the NAIA championship. Northwest JCs will also use the new ball. machine at 95 mph with a spin rate of 1,400 RPM and a launch angle of 25 degrees. These parameters were set because they replicate the

settings of a typical home run or a hit that could become a home run.

The average distance the raised seam ball traveled was 367 feet

while the average distance the flat seam ball traveled was 387 feet — 20 feet further.

The home run should be back in the game but not to the extent where it was several years ago before the BBCOR bat started being used.

Craig Keilitz, executive director of the American Baseball Coaches Association, said that he talked to about 50 coaches during the fall who have utilized the flat seam baseball during practices and games.

“The majority of those coaches said they saw a difference in the carry compared to the raised seam ball that has been used in college baseball for many years,” said Keilitz.

“I am excited to see how the ball performs during the 2015 season with schools that use it and how the numbers wind up, especially home runs.

“I would personally like to see more home runs in college baseball.

But we don’t need to go back to the extreme number of home runs we had before.

“It appears this ball will allow for possibly better home run production than the last few years. But we have to wait and see.”

Cold Weather Concerns Dan Blewett, a former college player who now is the owner of War Bird Training Academy in Normal, Ill., feels a big problem may take place with cold weather early in the season with the flat seam ball for pitchers.

“Going to school in Baltimore, this was a ‘southern’ trip for us – one that would escape the frostbitten northern air,” said Blewett.

“We lost the first game of my college career 2-1, a 14-inning affair that lasted almost five hours amid snow flurries and chattering teeth.

“It was classic February college baseball – cold and windy.

“Hundreds of schools tolerate this weather for more than half of their spring season, but it will quickly become less tolerable as they transition to flat seam baseballs. These games were playable as long as the field was dry and free of snow.

“What most don’t realize is that these games were made playable in large part because of high-seam baseballs, which will be a thing of the past in 2015.

“Most casual onlookers don’t see the big deal – grab the baseball and throw it, right? Not so fast.

“The issue of foreign substance use will become rampant in college baseball as college pitchers desperately try to grip a cold, flat, dry ball with cold, dry hands.

“As such, what was a minor problem in professional baseball will become a much larger problem in college baseball.

“The flat-seam baseball used in the minor leagues is very difficult to grip and throw in temperatures below 40 degrees, especially with wind and dry air.

“The Major League ball is even worse. Fortunately for professionals, this is only an issue in April and October, as the bulk of the season is played in the warmth of the summer.

“Half of the college season is over by the time April rolls

See WILL FOREIGN, Page 3

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. , 015

Collegiate Baseball The Voice Of Amateur Baseball

Page 3

Will Foreign Substance Use Skyrocket With New Balls?

Continued From Page

Collegiate Baseball (ISSN 0530-9 51) is published twice a month January-May and once in June, July, September and October (1 total issues) by Collegiate Baseball Newspaper, Inc., 515 N. Stone Ave., Tucson, AZ 85 05. Periodicals postage paid at Tucson, AZ.

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Kent St. Dedicates Field KENT, Ohio — Kent State dedicated the David and Peggy Edmonds Baseball and Softball Training Facility in late October.

The facility includes dirt pitching mounds and moveable batting cages on a turf surface, as well as office space for the coaching staff.

A groundbreaking ceremony for the new facility took place nearly a year ago.

The project was made possible by a lead gift of $500,000 by Dave Edmonds and a generous donation of $100,000 by Tom Cole, both of whom are Kent State baseball alumni.

Additionally, there were other gifts between $5,000 and $25,000 in support of the project, including generous donations from former Major League pitchers Chris Carpenter and Matt Guerrier.

The facility upgrade is part of the Building Champions initiative, the biggest fundraising initiative in the history of the athletic department

that was announced in 2013.

The initiative will generate money from private donors to fund a $25 million dollar investment in athletic scholarships and a $35 million dollar investment in various enhancement projects.

The hitting facility is part of continuing upgrades to the Kent State baseball facilities.

In 2005, a field turf surface was installed, along with an underground drainage system, new dugouts, bullpens, backstop and outfield fencing. For the 2007 season, a home locker room, players’ lounge, restrooms and concession stand were added. The updated scoreboard in right field was installed in 2008.

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around.”

Stark Differences Blewett said there are major differences between the flat seam and high seam balls.

“1. Flat seam balls feel rounder.

Larger seams protrude from the surface of high seam balls, making the ball feel square by comparison.

Flat seams make the ball feel smaller, which can also make them feel less secure in the hand. Large seams can be wedged between fingers on breaking balls, but flat seam balls don’t nest as well.

“2. The leather is slicker. Leather on pro baseballs appears to be of higher quality, and it tends to get slicker and shinier the more it hits the mitt. Pro balls become souvenirs after just an at-bat or two, on average, but colleges often retrieve foul balls. This means longer circulation time. Balls that last a few innings are likely to get harder to grip as the game wears on.

“3. Pro balls are rubbed up. This makes matters worse, as ‘taking the shine’ off the pearly white ball requires very fine mud to be rubbed on. This fine mud dries into dust. And dusty baseballs are (you guessed it) harder to grip. Though the darkened color may prove a visual advantage, this is a tactile disadvantage to the pitcher.

“4. The seams are flat and narrow.

Though this is obvious, flat seams mean that more curves and sliders will slip out. The MLB ball has seams that are flatter and narrower than even the minor league ball, which can make the transition to the big leagues more difficult for minor leaguers.

“5. Round balls act differently than square balls. Physics dictates that a high-seamed ball will have more turbulent flight than a flatseamed ball, resulting in more pitch movement. However, pitchers transitioning to pro baseballs report the opposite.”

Blewett said that because the pro ball is rounder, finger pressure is more often erroneously sent through the descending edges of the ball, resulting in unintended cut and run on fastballs.

“Pitchers in the college game will suddenly find their fastballs doing things they’ve never done before, and they’ll be scrambling for

Pine tar might be popular. answers. But, the issue comes down to pitch slippage, predominantly on breaking balls.

“It’s very difficult to ‘feel’ the ball when it’s cold, as both the leather and the skin are cold, dry and slick.

“Ask any pro pitcher throwing under these conditions, and he’ll tell you that it affects his confidence in his breaking pitches, because the ball feels insecure in the hand.

“Pitchers want to grip and rip their curve or slider, but if they’re afraid it’s going to fly over the batter’s head, they end up choosing pitches based on the ball rather than the count and situation.

“This is what we don’t want – for the ball to dictate how the game is played.

“What does this mean for college baseball?

“Collegiate pitchers will be forced to find comfort with flat seam balls as they throw them in fall and winter workouts, giving them a trial run before the season.

“But, part of this learning curve will be finding ways to get their old grip on the new baseball.

“The NCAA and other national organizations are likely to have a problem on their hands enforcing a rule against gripping aids, one that they never had to deal with.

“Hopefully, players are discrete if they use substances, and the game can go on without interruption, much like pro baseball has.

“But, if umpires decide to be strict, there may have to be rule changes.

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“Players will be throwing in front of scouts in 40-degree weather with flat seam balls.

“Rather than hang pitch after pitch and see their draft stock fall, they’re going to find a substance to help them get their old grip back.

“Is this cheating? I call it survival.

“Both MLB and the NCAA should consider creating a list of approved substances that can be used sparingly to enhance grip.

“Rosin can create tremendously sticky skin when used in warm weather. So substances that mimic that same degree of tack should be considered legal within the current ethos of the game during cold weather.”

Groupings Of Pitches?

Mississippi State Pitching Coach Butch Thompson feels a closer grouping of pitches will take place with the flat seam balls.

He believes that the raised seam ball allowed pitchers to have bigger breaks on all pitches because of the drag imparted from the bigger seams.

If pitches are grouped closer together as far as break, then it comes down to early or late break with pitches.

The cutter and changeup will undoubtedly be crucial pitches when the new balls are utilized.

“Pitchers will have to experiment with the new balls until they are comfortable throwing them,” said Thompson. If pitches are closer together with less break, hopefully that translates into better command.

“The change will really help pitchers when they move on to pro baseball. Currently they have to adjust from throwing the raised seam to the flat seam ball. That won’t be an issue any more.”

Thompson said that the average Major League fastball today using the flat seam baseball is 91.5 mph — an all-time high. The figure has now gone up five consecutive years.

Collegiate Baseball

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Collegiate Baseball The Voice Of Amateur Baseball

OPINION Publisher: Lou Pavlovich, Jr. Editor: Lou Pavlovich, Jr.

The Topic: Amazing Minds In Baseball

Each issue, Collegiate Baseball explores a major development in the world of baseball. This issue’s editorial explains that the most creative people in the world are at the forefront of advances in game.

Technology In Game Is Always Evolving Whether it is new video equipment, tracking software for pitches, ingenious bat speed development programs or velocity improvement programs for pitchers, plus much, much more, baseball is blessed to have ingenious people who make the game fun to learn.

The next issue of Collegiate Baseball will feature our 16th annual Best of Show products from the American Baseball Coaches Association Convention.

We have already seen nominations of new products that have knocked our socks off that will ultimately be utilized by thousands of coaches in baseball across the nation in the future.

Last year, we awarded 12 Best of Show certificates from a record 71 nominations from companies that introduced new products the previous year.

One of the most intriguing areas of technology for baseball coaches at the current time is cell phones. Since the mid 1980s, cell phones have been widely available to the public.

As they have become more sophisticated over the years, they have turned into miniature computers called smartphones that have numerous software functions, e-mail and internet browser capability that have become an indispensible tool.

The last issue of Collegiate Baseball featured a story on 20 ways coaches can utilize cell phoness.

Here are 10 on the list: 1. Communicating via calling, e-mail or texting.

2. Taking video on the field.

3. Making personal videos by players to show coaches they have mastered concepts.

4. Calendar for daily schedule, notes, practice plans, recruits, etc.

5. With special software, you can safely call recruits without worrying about making an illegal extra call if you are an NCAA Division I coach.

6. Track phone calls through smartphones instead of desktop computers. You can also see if an e-mail to a recruit has ever been opened or not.

7. Numerous Apps are on the market.

8. Brain training App for better vision called UltimEyes.

9. Mental toughness Apps.

10. Scorekeeping and stat software such as GameChanger.

Recently in the process of doing a page one story about Karl Kuhn, Collegiate Baseball’s 2014 Pitching Coach of The Year, he explained that the Cavaliers utilize a custom designed video system in their facility which utilizes eight video cameras with state-of-the-art tracking software.

Coaches can use their iPads at any time during practice to show players helpful video that can teach them to improve.

In the Sept. 8 issue of Sports Illustrated, Dr. Matt McCarthy delved into the epidemic of Tommy John surgeries in baseball and pointed out that the Micheli Center For Sports Injury Prevention in Waltham, Mass. is on the cutting edge of finding an answer. They utilize a 3D pitching analysis protocol that reveals common mechanical issues. Pitchers who need Tommy John surgery often lack internal rotation in their shoulder, and the testing at this center can identify this condition.

Stay tuned for more advancements in baseball.

“Q

UOTE

Unquote”

“The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly.”

— Buddha “The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.”

— Vince Lombardi

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Trivia: Name 20 Ways To Stop Games HUNTINGDON, Pa. — One of the greatest trivia questions of all time involves Bill Berrier, former coach at Juniata College for 32 years.

He was involved in more unique baseball game cancellations or postponements than anyone in the history of the game.

Incredibly, he witnessed 20 different scenarios for games being called in his career.

I bet most coaches and players can’t mention 10 ways a game can be stopped let alone 20.

Berrier also managed 12 seasons in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ system prior to coming to Juniata.

Without further adieu, let’s go over this impressive list: 1. Rain.

2. Snow.

3. Flood.

4. June bug problem near Mississippi River.

5. Bus breakdown 200 miles from town.

6. Smoke (fire in dump by field).

7. Toxic fumes (power plant).

8. Toxic fumes (fertilization plant).

9. Tornado.

10. Light failure.

11. Dust storm (Texas League).

12. Lightning storm.

13. Hail storm (with heavy sleet).

Around The Horn With Lou Pavlovich

14. Cold weather (second game 16 degrees).

15. Hurricane (Florida State League).

16. Nuked out (Three Mile Island).

17. Sprinkler system trouble (broken sprinkler head in centerfield caused huge spray of water which nobody could shut off).

18. Rocking light towers.

Umpires called game due to heavy winds which rocked light towers to edge of breaking. Also, there was concern about a possible tornado.

19. No umpires.

20. Fog. Berrier was asked what his most memorable game stoppage was among the 20 he listed.

“Probably the most unusual cancellation took place during the Three Mile Island nuclear disaster,” said Berrier.

“You could say we were nuked out that day.

“I am only aware of three college programs in baseball history which have ever been nuked out, and I was the coach of one of those teams.

The other two were Elizabethtown College and York College.”

The Three Mile Island Unit 2 reactor, near Middletown, Pa., partially melted down on March 28, 1979. This was the most serious accident in U.S. commercial nuclear power plant operating history, although its small radioactive releases had no detectable health effects on plant workers or the public.

An equally strange situation took place during a game when he was managing a team in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ minor league system.

“It was either at Clinton, Davenport or Dubuque, Iowa in 1967 when I was managing in the Midwest League.

“During this particular game, thousands and thousands of June bugs flew in from the Mississippi River and swarmed over the field and in the lights that evening.

“These June bugs had six inch wing spans and were absolutely huge. The swarm was so thick, the home plate umpire couldn’t see the balls coming to the catcher and had See ULTIMATE, Page 5

Letters To The Editor 20 Different Cell Phone Uses

I thoroughly enjoyed your article on 20 different uses for cell phones that baseball coaches can utilize (Oct. 3, 2014 issue).

You can’t imagine how many times I utilize my smart phone during the course of a day.

This story is perfect for expanding the use of my phone.

Of particular interest to me was how Iowa Western coaches uses the free video app called Ubersense on their iPhones during practices.

I have seen different high profile colleges utilize elaborate video systems on the field.

But many times they have to bring kids in their office to look at video over their computer monitors and can’t show the player immediately what must be worked on during practice.

The use of iPhones during practice at Iowa Western makes better sense by taking video during hitting, pitching or fielding which can immediately be shown to players if needed to hammer home a point.

I plan on utilizing this technology immediately.

Todd Kaiser Marion, Ohio (Editor’s Note: Up to mid-October, the free app by Ubersense could only be used on iPhones.

But a new beta version has just hit the market that will work on smart phones that utilize the Android operating system.)

Fantastic Idea For Teaching

I wanted to commend Jason Schreiber of Alvin College (Tex.) for coming up with a great teaching tool with the use of cell phones (Oct. 3, 2014 edition) that will not only help baseball and other sports but the education system as a whole.

I plan on using this technique immediately for my players.

For those who haven’t read the story yet, Jason realized that every player on his team uses a cell phone.

With that in mind, he heard a lecturer say that a person retains 10 percent of what he hears, 50 percent of what he does and a staggering 90 percent of what he teaches someone else.

So why not have athletes teach coaches what they know to prove they have learned concepts that are essential to having successful teams?

You obviously can’t have player after player stop practice and explain what they know about different facets of the game.

So Schreiber had his kids make short videos

John Smith 17 Mockingbird Lane Pullman, WA 99164

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Collegiate Baseball welcomes letters from readers. Letters must include the writer’s name, address and telephone number. We reserve the right to condense or reject any letter and to limit frequent writers. from their cell phones after practice to explain different concepts they were responsible for such as the first and third play.

He felt that by having his players teach back these concepts in short cell phone videos, the learning curve would be reduced.

I also like the idea that Schreiber has used this technique for a player who made excuses all the time and stopped him.

I plan on using that with a couple of excuse makers on my team.

Thanks for a superb article.

Alan Gordon Long Beach, Calif.

Iowa Western Wizard

I would like to thank Marc Rardin for sharing his teaching techniques with Collegiate Baseball (Oct. 3, 2014 issue).

I learned a great deal reading about his system and the page one story about his recruiting philosophy and teaching techniques.

It was amazing to read that he not only has led Iowa Western to three NJCAA Division I national titles in the last five years, but he has done it with less than half the scholarships that other high profile NJCAA Division I schools usually offer.

You could feel the passion he has for teaching his players.

The success backs up everything he is doing.

Jim Littell Denver, Colo.

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

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Upcoming Clinics Scheduled Across United States TUCSON, Ariz. — The convention/clinic season for baseball coaches is here.

Clinic: 71st Annual American Baseball Coaches Association Convention Date: January 2-5, 2015 Location: Orlando World Center Marriott, Orlando, FL (For ABCA convention rates, call before Dec. 12 at (888) 789-3090.)

Speakers: Tim Corbin (Vanderbilt); Pete Hughes (Oklahoma); Geoff Miller (Atlanta Braves); Mik Aoki (Notre Dame); John Maltee (Houston Astros); Mike Martin (Florida State); Pat Williams (Orlando Magic); Brian Cain (sports psychologist); Paul Kostacopoulos (Naval Academy); Tom House (National Pitching Association); Steve Delabar (Toronto Blue Jays); Joe Jordano (Pittsburgh); Travis Jewett (Vanderbilt); Jerry Haugen/Bob Keyes (ABCA); Bob Keller (South Alabama); Pat Mason (Virginia Tech); Matt Blake (Cressey Performance); Brian Green (New Mexico State); Jamie Pinzino (Oklahoma); Paul Svagdis (Azusa Pacific); Steve Vogt (Oakland Athletics); Tom Austin (Methodist Univ); Kevin Schnall (Central Florida); Marc Rardin (Iowa Western CC); Roy Silver (Winning Inning Baseball); Dillon Lawson (SE Missouri State); Dr. Pete Fadde; Pete Pasquarosa (Wheaton College); Brad Stoll (Lawrence HS, KS); Danny Graham (Lowell HS, MA); Patrick McQuaid (Nova HS, FL); and a MLB Groundskeeper Session. For more details on the speakers and topics, see page 43.

Cost: Registration costs $90 plus $33 for annual membership. Register online at www.

ABCA.org or at the convention.

Contact: For more information, contact the ABCA at (336) 821-3140.

••• Clinic: 42nd Annual Be The Best You Are Baseball Coaches Clinic Date: January 8-10, 2015 Location: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Cherry Hill, NJ (For reservations, call 1-856-665-6666.)

Speakers: Pat Murphy (San Diego Padres); Pat McMahon (New York Yankees); John Cohen and Nick Mingione (Mississippi State); Ron Polk (Alabama-Birmingham); Andy Baylock (UConn); Dean Ehehalt (Monmouth Univ.); Rob Sheppard (Seton Hall); and the USA Baseball 18U National Team staff: Andy Stankewicz (Grand Canyon), Jayson King (Franklin Pierce), Jamey Shouppe (Florida A&M) and Burt Call (Mater Dei HS, Santa Ana, CA).

Cost: Pre-registration $130; at the door $140 Contact: Visit www.bethebest.com or Jack Hawkins (clinic director) at bethebest@optimum. net or 1-732-528-5392.

Clinic: 29th Annual Pennsylvania Baseball &

Softball Coaches Clinic Date: January 9-10, 2015 Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Pittsburgh, PA Speakers: Ray Searage, Pittsburgh Pirates pitching coach; Jerry Weinstein, Colorado Rockies offensive coordinator; Rob Cooper, Penn State head coach; Steve Trimper, Univ. of Maine head coach; Mike Roberts, retired Univ. of North Carolina; Brandon Hall, UNC Charlotte pitching coach; Chris Holick, Ohio State assistant coach; Claudio Reilsono, Carnegie Mellon head coach; and Brian Hagen, UPMC Sports Medicine.

Cost: $80 Contact: Visit www.pacoachesclinic.com or call Zach Jankowski (724) 787-8707.

••• Clinic: Ohio HS Baseball Coaches Association Clinic Date: January 15-17, 2015 Location: Hyatt Regency, Columbus, OH Speakers: Greg Beals (Ohio State); Brian Cain (sports psychologist); Jeff Duncan (Kent State); Jeff Waggoner (Marshall); Tim Pettorini (Wooster); Neil Ioverio (Kean Univ.); Larry Day (Ohio Univ.); Brian Green (Kentucky); Dean Hansen (Ohio State strength & conditioning); Frank Gamble (Wooster); Landon Powell (North

Greensboro); Dave Klontz (Heath HS); JD Heillmann (Prep Baseball Report/Scouting).

Cost: $75 pre-registration; $90 at the door Contact: Visit http://associationdatabase. com/aws/OHSBCA/pt/sp/home_page or email Trevor Thomas at ohsbca@ohsbca.org.

••• Clinic: Alabama Baseball Coaches State Convention Date: January 15-17 Location: Marriott Hotel, Birmingham, AL Speakers: Skip Bertman (LSU), Don Slaught (RightView Pro/16-year MLB Player), Fred Corral (University of Georgia), Drew Briese (Birmingham Southern College), Brandon Ware (Lurleen B. Wallace CC), Hunter Vick (Auburn University), Jorge Bonnet (Purmotion), Wes Helms (12-year MLB player), Doug Kovash (Lawson State CC); Sean Anderson (Pelham HS), Derek Irons (Charles Henderson HS), Justin Dehmer (1 Pitch Warrior), Jerry Boatner (West Lauderdale HS), Lee Hall (Randolph HS) and Bhrett McCabe (The MindSide).

Cost: Staff membership: $100 + $50 per coach pre-registration convention fee. Individual membership: $50 + $50 convention fee.

Contact: Barry Dean, ALABCA Executive

Director, 334-676-0434 or email barrydean@ alabca.org. For more information visit www. alabca.org.

••• Clinic: Colorado Dugout Club Clinic Date: January 16-18, 2015 Location: Denver Marriott Tech Center, Denver, CO Speakers: Josh Holliday (Oklahoma State); Butch Thompson (Mississippi State); Don Harrell (Seattle Univ.); Gorman Heimmuller (San Diego Padres); Tim Saunders (Dublin, OH); Scott Richardson (Tolleson, AZ); Todd Butler (Wichita State) and others.

Cost: $70 plus membership dues of $25; Hall of Fame dinner $35 Contact: Mike Letofsky at m.letofsky@ comcast.net or 1-303-809-0132.

••• Clinic: 12th Annual I-70 Baseball Coaches Clinic Date: Monday, January 19 Location: Greenville HS, Greenville, IL (near St. Louis) Speakers: Leo Mazzone, former Atlanta Braves pitching coach (3 times); Turtle Thomas, Florida International head coach (3 times); Mike Pinto, Southern Illinois Miners manager; and

Kevin Wheeler, St. Louis Gamers coach.

Cost: $50 per person for pre-registration; $175 for 4-6 coaches. Cost includes the speaker sessions, catered lunch, over 100 door prizes including a $250 cash prize.

Contact: Joe Alstat at 618-664-5580 or email jalstat@bccu2.org or visit www.i70clinic.com.

••• Clinic: 49th Annual Oklahoma Baseball Coaches Association Winter Baseball Clinic Date: January 23-25 Location: Biltmore Hotel, 401 S Meridian Ave, Oklahoma City, OK (Special hotel rate for convention is offered.)

Speakers: Kirk Bock, Arkansas; Ron Bradly, Springdale Arkansas; Bob Morgan, Indiana Univ.; Bill Seaman, Missouri Coaches Association president, and others.

Cost: $50 for HS & college coaches clinic registration which includes award banquet ticket; $25 for Little League Coaches for lectures only.

Contact: John Schwartz, Executive Secretary at 405-348-3839 or visit www.OKBCA.com.

••• If you have an upcoming clinic that you’d like to publicize, send all the details to Collegiate Baseball, P.O. Box 50566, Tucson, AZ 85703 or e-mail Lou@baseballnews.com

Ultimate Trivia Question Is Put To Rest By Bill Berrier Continued From Page 4

to stop the game.

“From what I have been told, these bugs only live 24 hours as they have sexual activities and die.

When one would hit one of the hot lamps in the light tower, they would drop to the ground like dead bats.

‘The next day, there were thousands and thousands of dead bugs on the field. It was really bizarre to say the least.”

In Dubuque, Iowa where his minor league team played games, he had the unique problem of having a fertilizer plant beyond right field, an electrical generating power plant powered by burning coal beyond left field and a dump located behind home plate.

The one-two-three punch of smells was difficult to stand at

times.

“I told key people in management with the Los Angeles Dodgers that this particular stadium was not conducive to the development of minor league players.

“Every time we practiced or played games, your eyes would water. Once we were smoked out from a fire from the dump behind home plate. When a fire broke out in the dump, the smoke became so thick, you couldn’t see second base.

“Another time, a game was not allowed to continue because of toxic fumes coming from the fertilizer manufacturing plant.

“And still another time, the fumes from the electric generating plant (which was powered by burning coal), stopped a game.”

Berrier said one time a tornado

interfered with a game.

“I was managing Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and the last ground rule exchanged was that if a special siren went off, the game was to be suspended immediately. That was a tornado warning.

“About the third inning of this game, the siren went off, and the game was stopped. It was pretty scary because it was night, and you couldn’t see anything around you but knew a tornado was possibly in the area.”

One time Berrier witnessed dime-sized hail deluge his baseball field as the game was stopped.

Hail blanketed the field to a thickness of about 1 1/2 inches.

“Another time, we had a game called due to cold weather.

“It was the second game of a doubleheader in the Midwest

League just outside of Green Bay, Wisc.

“We played the first game in 3233 degree weather.

“But when the second game was about to start, it dropped all the way to 16 degrees.

“It was just too cold.

“Our guys were so cold they just wanted to strike out to get back to a place that was semi-warm.”

Once during the 1968 Florida State League, a number of games were called because of a hurricane.

“We lost 15 playing days in a row because of the hurricane,” said Berrier.

“We then played 15 straight doubleheaders.”

On another occasion, a dust storm in El Paso, Tex. lasted a day and a half that led to a stoppage.

Collegiate Baseball

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Karl Kuhn’s Pitching System

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Virginia Pitching Coach Utilizes Futuristic Concepts To Help His Kids Continued From Page 1

pitchers healthy and improves velocity from 3-10 mph.  Throwing with better command is vital in Kuhn's system.

Cavalier pitchers have averaged only 2.8 walks per nine innings since 2004 — the fewest in the Atlantic Coast Conference.  Virginia's unique video system with eight cameras that allows coaches to give instant feedback to athletes with iPads on the field.

Learning Efficiently When new pitchers to the program arrive on campus for the first time during the summer, Virginia Director of Academic Affairs Sadie Royal works with these athletes to help them transition to one of the nation’s top academic institutions.

She discovers how each athlete learns in the most efficient manner.

Some are better visual learners while others learn quicker by hearing instruction. Others grasp concepts better when coaches utilize touch as they position the body to be efficient mechanically.

Kuhn keeps a sheet of paper that tells him how each of his pitchers learn more efficiently and utilizes it in every practice. Because of this, the learning curve with his pitchers is quicker than with many schools.

“We are blessed at Virginia to attract incredible students and athletes,” said Kuhn.

“The first nod should go to them because they come here with talent.

If you have someone who is driven academically and has a family with good values, then it is easy to push the ‘horse’ along and ask him to do more.”

Kuhn said it is important for him to see his incoming pitchers as many times as possible before they arrive on campus.

“The recruiting process now happens so much earlier than it did when we got here 11 years ago. When these kids commit as sophomores or juniors, they will change and evolve so much in the next 18 to 24 months. So what you thought needed to be refined when they committed may not be the case when they arrive on campus.

“So I go out and try to see every one of our pitchers who we sign two to three times in each recruiting phase (Spring, Summer and Fall). I keep very good notes from the first time I see them, and I put them in a database in my iPad every time I see them.

“It’s not so much with velocity.

I really look at their mechanics and the evolution of their pitches. If they add a pitch, I take note of that and how it is progressing.

“When I finally get them at Virginia, I have a mental library of how they have evolved. I also jot down notes of what I want to do with them when they get here. Once they are here, I meet with each of them. The best thing for me is to be proactive.

“There are many ways to skin a cat. Many coaches allow kids to come in and perform the way they always have. When the athlete fails, he comes to you as the coach and is more ready to learn.

“I try to take the other approach.

I meet with them and tell them what they do well and what they need to work on. These high school pitchers have never been schemed against like what they will on our level.

HANDS ON COACH — Karl Kuhn (center with dark jersey) has an intense chat with one of his pitchers. The highly respected Virginia pitching coach explains what he does on mound visits when everything is hitting the fan during games.

“A lefthander who has a high leg kick and holds at the top and reads whether to pick at first may not be the best tactic in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Coaches will gamble on when you will pick and pitch.

So we may talk about quickening that up or shortening that leg stroke up a bit.

“I explain that they are extremely talented in many areas, but they must address the deficiencies they have to be more accomplished.

Together, we can come up with a plan for the rest of the fall on how to attack these areas based on each pitcher’s learning curve.

“Sadie (Royal) does a great job of telling the coaching staff verse and rhyme how each of our freshmen learn the best. Prior to utilizing this information when I was a younger coach, I verbally gave instruction to some of my pitchers over and over again with little success. I had no idea they were visual learners and could have learned more efficiently by teaching that way. They didn’t connect the dots easily with verbal communication.

“Learning right off the bat how each of my pitchers learn has allowed me to be a much better coach. I carry my cheat sheet with me which is especially valuable with the freshmen.

“In the beginning when they arrive, we will go over one concept, and that’s it. We aren’t trying to put the entire puzzle together. It’s the only piece we are focusing on at this time. And depending on if they are a visual, hearing or touch learner, I will adapt my coaching.”

Kuhn gave an example.

“If I am working with a visual learner, we may have seen some video the day before concerning his front arm. The next day, I might remind him that the video we saw yesterday must be the picture in his mind today of what we are trying to accomplish.

Kuhn, a former catcher, said it’s a lot of work to teach in this fashion.

But the results are worth it.

“The success we have had isn’t just this. My kids don’t know what I’m doing. I’m not sharing it with them. They don’t need to know how smart or dumb I am. I am trying to simplify the process for my pitchers. I am the filter.

“Once we outline the teaching for the day, don’t think for a second that I don’t A) hold them accountable, and B) make them compete their tails off every second they are doing it. Those two things are probably the biggest component once you put the teaching and learning into practice.

“There is not a thing we are doing that is not competitive.”

Intense Mound Visits During games, Kuhn is as intense as you get as a coach.

When he makes a mound visit, it is common for him to walk up the hill next to the pitcher and talk to him a foot or so directly in front.

Kuhn routinely grabs the pitcher’s shoulder or pokes him in the chest as he glares at him with the hurler totally locked in to what he is saying.

When you watch this scenario on television or in the stands, it appears Kuhn is letting his pitcher have it verbally and is absolutely incensed at what has transpired.

But that is the furthest thing from the truth. He is out there to support his pitchers and let them know they will get out of the jam. Both of them are in this together with the entire team backing them up.

“The reality is that I care a great deal about my pitchers. When I go out there, I want them to know that they will get through the tough situation they are in. Being a former undersized catcher who was probably not that talented, I tried to make up for that by playing hard and being aggressive and taking the fight to the game or opponent. I like to coach my pitchers this way.

“We are very aggressive and try to play offense on defense.

If you are a competitor and are aggressive, it makes up for a lot of

shortcomings you may have talentwise. You won’t be perfect all the time. We coach to that and try to recruit that way as well. It doesn’t necessarily have to be outward so we show opponents up.

“This has been my style as a coach for 23 years. There were just no TV cameras at Charleston Southern or Arkansas-Little Rock.

I didn’t just get to Virginia and decide to put my hands on a pitcher on the mound or put my arm over someone’s shoulder.

“I didn’t really think about it much until about 4-5 years ago someone asked me to speak about it. I asked them if they were serious about their request. Then I reflected on this and realized this guy was challenging me to define what I do.

“So I had to decide whether I would simply give the company line or really dive into it. So I dove into it. The first thing is that you don’t go to the mound to say hello.

You go there because there is an issue, a problem or you want to find a solution. Those are the only reasons you go to the mound.

“Secondly, it’s just the way I am.

I am a very big, touchy-feely guy, and I hug our guys all the time and put my hands on them all the time.

I’m always grabbing their arms or putting them in headlock if I can reach them because I am shorter than most of my pitchers.

“I might come from behind them and give them a bear hug. With all my former players, I don’t really shake their hands. They know when I come up, they give me a hug whether they want to or not. I’ve always hugged people.”

Kuhn said he started looking at why you would put your hands on somebody.

“You do this subconsciously for one of two reasons. Either you want to fight them or you love them.

“With me, it is a subconscious way of reaching out to touch someone and say I am in this situation with you. I feel your problems, struggle, and it’s OK. We will get out of this.

“Any time there is a problem with my children, I always sit them on my lap or put my hands on them prior to talking to them even if it is a scolding.

“People may see me point a finger up or have an open hand laying on a pitcher’s chest. But it is always with the words that we will get out of this or how we will get out of this. Nobody gets out of a bad situation when a coach goes to the mound and throws another log on a gasoline fire. You can’t do it.

“Once you quantify what I do, it is pretty ingenious. I care a great deal for my pitchers, and this is who I am and why I do it. It is the fiber of me.

“You must be who you are. If you aren’t, then nobody will respect you. You can’t fool kids these days.

They are smarter than we are. I’ve always stay true to myself. I may say an inappropriate word now and again. But it’s all out of passion and love. It’s not a demeaning thing. If you coach from the heart and have good intentions, good things will happen.”

Showing No Emotion Vital Kuhn said that being emotional as a pitcher can be a big problem.

“We don’t want our pitchers to show any emotion during games because it can be extremely tiring.

If you live and die with every pitch and every out, and you are in the

fifth inning and pumping fists, pitchers will tire doing this. Once the game is over, they can let it out as much as they want.”

“Our entire team takes on the personality of our head coach Brian O’Connor. We don’t get too up or too down. We aren’t too high or too low. We stay at an even keel most of the time.”

It is easy to see why his pitchers appear to be silent assassins on the mound with no emotion at Virginia.

They get this intensity from this marvelous pitching coach.

Bullpens Are Intense Kuhn said that when his pitchers go to work in bullpens, they are intense and never a walk in the park.

“I read a quote from Nolan Ryan 20 years ago that said pitching was fun. But preparing to pitch is not fun. That quote resonated with me.

I don’t believe that preparing to pitch should be fun. Pitchers have a lot of down time.

“Inevitably, they get involved in doing one of two duties during practice. They are either hitting fungoes or shagging balls. I don’t like our pitchers to do either of those things unless they are done with their work.

“I know it is a necessary evil. But I don’t like our guys to be thought of that way. Every time we are in a bullpen, it’s a competitive situation.

We will have a pitcher compete with another one next to him. One might be working on a curve in the dirt or for a strike while the other pitcher may be working on a changeup.

“The guy who loses might have to run five stadiums or something like this. It’s not meant to kill the guy at the end of practice. But it is meant to put consequences on poor performances. If somebody is beating another pitcher’s tail, I will let him know about it. He needs to find a way to answer back.

“The more times you can have them in a competitive situation, the easier it is when you are in a game.

You will not represent Florida State, Arkansas, LSU or Ole Miss when you are working in a bullpen.

But you must come close with the feeling. The feeling is what they must remember in focusing on the job and not the situation.

“Whether the coach is yelling at you that you are no good in bullpen settings or this, that and the other, it is done to prepare the pitcher for games.

“I am a pretty firm guy. But I have a bigger reputation of being a hard ass outside of our program than inside our program from the perception of the way my mound visits appear in games.

“We are very, very competitive in everything we do. The bases loaded in our bullpen is no different than the bases loaded at the University of Miami.

“It doesn’t matter. And the more times I can put those guys in those situations where they are not thinking about the situation and only focusing on the job, the better off they will be in getting out of the predicament they are in.

“Thinking about the situation clutters up a pitcher’s mind. And it makes the job noisy.

“There will be noise all around you whether it is fan noise or your own mind’s noise. I want them to think about the solution rather than the situation.”

See VELOCITY, Page 8

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“

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Velocity Improvement The genesis of weighted ball training for pitchers was 51 years ago by Michigan State Head Coach Danny Litwhiler. He was considered the greatest inventor in baseball history.

Litwhiler came up with a system of utilizing five different weighted balls that dramatically increased velocity.

Twenty years later, pitching instructor Tom House worked with a firm called Bio Techniques that introduced the Global Pitching Program that featured the use of 4, 5 and 6-ounce baseballs in addition to throwing a football. Pitchers increased velocity an average of 2 miles per hour.

Since that time, House has refined the program with the National Pitching Association to one called the Velocity Plus Program that integrates five specifically weighted balls (2 pound, 1 pound, 6 ounce, 5 ounce, 4 ounce and 2 ounce).

Another highly popular velocity program that started in 2002 by Ron Wolforth is called the Athletic Pitcher Program.

Kuhn said that his pitchers at Virginia have utilized the Tom House velocity improvement program with great results.

“I have known Tom for over 25 years. Over the years he refined his system to what it is now. I have always been on the cutting edge of systems whether I was at Charleston Southern, ArkansasLittle Rock or Virginia.

“Many years ago, I was made fun of because I utilized the towel drill with my pitchers, and it was an important part of the Tom House pitching system. Critics said they would use the towel when Abner

More On Karl Kuhn

While velocity sells, this is what gets pitchers hurt if they don’t follow a specific protocol like we do. Our athletes come in bigger, faster and stronger than when I was playing years ago. We haven’t taught these athletes to accommodate being bigger, stronger and faster.

— Karl Kuhn, Pitching Coach University of Virginia

Doubleday changes the game so that towels are thrown to home plate instead of a baseball.

“That’s just a short minded person who is stuck in the conventional wisdom of baseball. This drill helps pitchers with the repetitiveness of trying to throw pitches out front without the wear and tear on their arm they would face throwing an actual ball on the mound.

“We do a lot of work on two knees and a lot of flat ground work. Our guys don’t throw off the mound until game day during the season. And we haven’t had any arm injuries. Since I have been a pitching coach during the last 23 years, there have only been two pitching injuries on my watch. And both were pre-existing conditions from high school.

“About seven years ago, we integrated the weighted ball program from the NPA (National Pitching Association) and Tom

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House. We took some rib shots for that one too. The poster child for velocity improvement with that program is our former AllAmerican Danny Hultzen.

“Danny threw 88-92 mph prior to the program. Then he jumped to 93-96. He ultimately was the second overall pick in the 2011 Draft. Between the heavy balls, holds and protocols that accompany that program, we have never had a guy go backward in velocity since we started using it seven years ago.

“And we have had guys who have made 3-10 mph jumps in velocity. There are a lot of people out there who market the heavy balls as their own and cookie cut the protocols that are supposed to be specific to an individual.

“It’s not three holds and two throws. It’s not. That’s the way that everybody gets by with it. There is a formula and equation that Tom and his people know. That’s how you get pitchers to increase their velocity.”

Kuhn talked about an exceptional pitcher at Virginia named Tyler Wilson.

“He has been in the Orioles’ system but always come back in the off season and worked with me. We had to tweak his heavy ball program and had to evolve with it as the season went from 60 games in college to 160 games in AAA pro ball.

“As we’ve done that, Tyler last season touched 97 mph. He had never been more than 92 mph for me. He gives me a lot of credit when he talks to the higher ups in the Orioles’ organization for the velocity improvement program and protocols. All I followed is the protocol that I learned from Tom House’s group. Tyler was the Jim Palmer Minor League Pitcher of The Year last season in the Orioles’ organization.

“Over the years, I have inherited 13 arm injuries in 23 years. And every one of the 13 has been restored to throw 75 innings or more. And seven of the 13 have reached AA in pro baseball.”

Kuhn said that he brings in the velocity improvement program from day one when a pitcher gets to Virginia.

“The protocol is really a total arm care system and isn’t a velocity improvement program, per se.

Velocity gains are a byproduct of working within this system.

Velocity is sexy and sells. Everyone wants velocity, and we are giving it to our pitchers.

“While velocity sells, this is what gets pitchers hurt if they don’t follow a specific protocol like we do. Our athletes come in bigger, faster and stronger than when I was

”

playing years ago.

“We haven’t taught these athletes to accommodate being bigger, stronger and faster. And that is why they are getting hurt. If you have a 16-year-old kid throwing 96 or 97 mph, by God’s creation, that probably should not happen. But we have the information to allow it to happen.

“We are doing these guys a disservice by giving them the information but not allowing them to stay healthy. In essence, you are making a Ferrari go 200 mph. But you are only giving the Ferrari a brake system to stop at 170 mph.

You will die, and you have no choice.”

Staying Healthy Kuhn said that utilizing heavy balls with the proper protocol does not result in arm injuries.

“Injuries with these balls are not really that big of a concern to me because we address functional strength before we address anything. If you have strength without flexibility, you are going to break due to the workloads of throwing a baseball.

“If you want velocity, you must have strength and flexibility. So we dive into both of those first. It’s a holistic thing with all of the strength work we do as over 60 different exercises are involved in what we call body work.

“I am more concerned with our guys being able to do pullups or chinups in four different hand positions than how far they can throw the baseball. That will help build their shoulder capsule and help the three accelerators and two decelerators.

“The weighted ball program involves a test threshold. There is a formula that goes with it. You must stay true to it, and it is different for every pitcher. That’s the beauty of it. It isn’t a cookie cutter approach.

It’s an unbelievably thought out and well tested routine. I am merely a pawn in the entire scheme of everything.

“Another important factor in all of this is that you must monitor each pitcher’s work load. That’s the No. 1 key component in keeping them healthy. I tell our pitchers that they have 100 pitches. At that mark, they lose decision making input in regard to staying in the game.

“They can use those 100 pitches in two innings or 15 innings. The innings are not what hurts a kid.

It’s the number of pitches. Nathan Kirby struck out 18 batters against Pittsburgh and threw a no-hitter last season. He threw 122 pitches.

Coach O’Connor and I were going back and forth in the dugout late in the game about whether to take him out earlier because he had hit

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — University of Virginia pitching coach Karl Kuhn is entering his 12th season as the pitching coach at Virginia.

Since 2005, the Cavaliers own a 3.04 cumulative ERA, lowest in the nation.

His staff has ranked among the top 20 teams nationally in ERA nine of the last 11 years, including a No. 1 ranking in 2011 and a No. 2 standing in 2014 when UVa posted the lowest ERA at UVa in 40 years.

The Cavaliers also have racked up four No. 3 national ERA rankings (2005, 2006, 2007, 2009) during Kuhn’s tenure.

During Kuhn’s time at Virginia, his pitchers have produced 75 shutouts, including an ACC-record 16 in 2011. The Cavaliers also have boasted a league-high 26 ACC Pitchers of the Week during the last 10 years.

Kuhn’s pitchers are notorious for pounding the strike zone, averaging just 2.8 walks per nine innings since 2004 - fewest in the ACC. Four of Kuhn’s UVa protégés have gone on to reach the major league level, including Michael Schwimer, Mike Ballard, Sean Doolittle and Kyle Crockett.

Thirty-one of Kuhn’s Virginia pitchers have been selected in the Major League Baseball Draft, including 15 in the top 10 rounds. the 100-pitch threshold.

“I remember in 2011, Danny Hultzen threw 1,976 competitive pitches. I don’t want our pitchers to throw over their age times 100 competitive pitches in a year.

Workloads are big. We do a lot of flat grounds. We do a lot of stuff with the heavy balls. And we also do a lot of flexibility and strength stuff.

“We get 90 percent of all our information from the NPA and 90 percent of the protocol to keep our pitchers healthy.

“They are the best in the business.

But we do it to the letter of the law.

We try to promote flexibility while we promote strength and try to do it at the same time.”

Factoring In Command Trying to balance more velocity with command with pitches is a tricky situation.

If the pitcher is throwing harder than he ever has with athletic movements, sometimes this throws off his strike throwing ability.

Kuhn was asked how his pitchers also become precision strike throwers in his system as they gain velocity.

“We try to take the effort out of the delivery,” said Kuhn.

“We call it easy hard. If you can get somebody bigger, faster and stronger, pitches will be delivered with more precision. Effort does not equal velocity. Effort tires you out and makes it a lot more stressful on your joints and body to throw a ball.

Basically effort elevates pitches.

We try to make our living down in the zone and not up.

“So we preach easy hard. That is a very difficult thing to do when you can look and see the velocity behind you. You can see how hard you’re throwing and realize you weren’t even working. Pitchers are always after a little bit more velocity.

“The second thing is where I came from. I didn’t have the good fortune of getting top level arms See COMMAND, Page 9

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Command Absolutely Crucial For Pitching Success Continued From Page 8

when I was the pitching coach at Charleston Southern and Arkansas Little Rock. I always considered myself a teacher first and wanted my pitchers to absolutely command the baseball. I believe location wins over velocity.

“Velocity makes up for a heck of a lot of mistakes. But location wins. Greg Maddux once said, ‘The tougher the situation I was in, the more I tried to locate better than throw harder.’ That’s how we made our living at Charleston Southern and Arkansas Little Rock. We believe that if we were shorter on talent that we would be longer on skill and competitiveness.

“When I got to Virginia, I kept that same adage. That was the only way I knew how to coach. So instead of absolutely throwing hard, we continued to do what I preached at my previous two schools. We demand that they command the baseball as well. We skill work all the time. And it has to be perfect.

Practice does not make perfect.

Perfect practice makes perfect. And perfect practice makes habit.

“If our pitchers don’t throw a pitch perfectly, they repeat it. And we do it until they get it.”

Kuhn said that the goal of all

U.S. College Player Picked In Japan Draft

HERKIMER, N.Y. – Former Herkimer Junior College baseball player Shinnosuke Takahashi, a native of Chiba, Japan, was drafted by the Yomiuri Giants, a professional team that is part of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).

Takahashi was drafted in the eighth round, getting an opportunity to pitch for a storied franchise, the oldest team present amongst Japanese professional teams.

The Giants have won nine league titles and have had numerous alumni compete in the MLB (Major League Baseball), most notably Hideki Matsui, a former outfielder for the New York Yankees.

Takahashi helped the Generals’ 2014 team to a school-record 41 wins (41-11), a regional championship and a third-place finish in the NJCAA Division III World Series.

In the Region III tournament, he hit .615 with eight hits, one home run and seven RBIs, helping Herkimer defeat Niagara 13-5, Erie 11-3 and Onondaga 9-3 for the championship.

In Nationals, the left-hander accumulated seven more RBI’s, hitting .400 with seven runs scored and another home run.

The freshman had an RBI in every game of the World Series, finishing with at least one in his last eight games, getting two RBIs in two of the five games played in Tyler, Tex. His third home run of the season came in the team’s final game against Cumberland County College, giving the freshman all his home runs in the final 10 games of the season.

“Shinn is one of the most talented players we have ever had,” said Head Baseball Coach Jason Rathbun.

“I am so happy he has a chance to play for the best professional team in Japan.

“I’ve had some good conversations with him and he is very excited about this great opportunity.”

KARL KUHN pitchers in his program is to throw 66 percent strikes with every pitch they have across the board.

“We might have a kid who comes in our program that throws 93 mph, but he has a changeup that gets hit. So that is the pitch he must work on so he throws it with precision because he doesn’t have the reps that he had with his fastball. Pitchers usually need to

work different pitches to have more precision strikes.”

Video Technology Virginia is fortunate to have a remarkable video system that integrates eight different cameras.

Six video cameras are on the field (behind home plate, above the dugouts, behind centerfield, high home, one in the bullpen) and another in the indoor facility for hitters and pitchers.

“We can utilize instant feedback for our athletes. Video can link up with our iPads instantaneously to show players video and draw on them. We can also overlay different pitches to show how they track toward home plate.

“Coach O’Connor did a great job of raising the money for this system by finding a donor that felt it was important to us as well as it was to him.

“That system was put in a couple of years ago, and it has been extremely helpful for our entire team. The video system is our own custom system and not made by a company. We investigated all the different systems out there.

Some could do what we wanted and others didn’t. Others could do

what others couldn’t. None of the companies could accomplish all the components we were after.

“So we built our own thanks to technical assistance from a graduate student named Tyler Slate who had input from all the coaches. He graduated last year. Now we have a video coordinator.”

Giving Credit Where Due Kuhn said that he is indebted to some special people who have helped him along the way.

“I was a catcher at the University of Florida a long time ago. I hit a wall when I played in the SEC and found myself migrating to the bullpen and the pitching coach named Scott Lovekamp. He is now a special assistant with the New York Yankees and cross checks pitchers that the Yankees will draft.

“He was the first person who really got me interested in coaching.

Scott was a great communicator and a mild mannered guy. He instilled in me the way a coach should interact and teach. That has stuck with me.

“Scott was the person who introduced me to Tom House about 26 years ago. Those two relationships have stood the test of

time. Tom showed me what to do when you coach as I learned the nuts and bolts from a mechanics standpoint and strength and conditioning view.

“When I moved on to Arkansas Little Rock in the Sun Belt Conference, I had the good fortune of learning from the best pitching coach in country, Tony Robichaux at Louisiana-Lafayette. I realize there are some great pitching coaches out there. But honestly, he is the best there is.

“The year they went to the College World Series, they had the No. 3 ranked team in the nation.

After the season was over, he contacted me and wanted to know how I keep our pitchers healthy and how we were doing so much with so little.

“He invited me down, and we chatted for two days on his nickel.

I gave him all of my strength and conditioning information and all of my mechanics’ stuff. He gave me all of his in-game information on how to get hitters out and defend. That took my coaching career to another stratosphere.

“I couldn’t be more grateful to his friendship for the 20 years I’ve known him.”

Collegiate Baseball

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Amazing Woody Hunt

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Cumberland Skipper Does It All, Including Laundry, At NAIA Power

By LOU PAVLOVICH, JR. Editor/Collegiate Baseball

LEBANON, Tenn. — Woody Hunt has been one of the great treasures of college baseball for many years.

The head coach at Cumberland University has posted a 1,452604-4 record in 33 seasons which is an incredible 70.58 winning percentage.

He is the winningest active NAIA coach and one of only six coaches in history to register 1,000 career victories on this level.

Hunt’s teams have won three NAIA national titles and appeared in 12 NAIA World Series, including six in the last 11 seasons.

His ball clubs have posted 24 seasons with 40 or more victories. In addition, his teams have registered 50 or more wins eight times.

The Bulldogs have produced 64 NAIA All-Americans while 79 of Hunt’s former players have signed pro contracts.

Hunt’s staggering coaching numbers are only a small part of what he has done in his life as a coach, mentor and father figure to his players.

Cumberland University has been a perfect fit for Hunt since he arrived on campus 36 years ago as an assistant.

This institution may be the only university in the world with two mascots that adorn athletic uniforms. Cumberland’s main mascot is the Bulldog which fits Hunt’s personality perfectly.

WOODY HUNT Positioned in the athletic logo is another more discreet symbol which is the mythical bird Phoenix.

During the Civil War, Union armies occupied the Cumberland campus. Upon leaving, soldiers burned University Hall to the ground.

A student wrote the Latin word Resurgam (I will rise) on one of the hall’s fallen columns.

Shortly thereafter the mythical bird Phoenix, born out of ashes, was taken on as a symbol of the university.

The Phoenix appears in Cumberland’s baseball cap logo, other athletic teams, as well as the university’s official seal.

When Hunt arrived in Lebanon as an assistant coach prior to the 1979

season, the program didn’t have much in the way of amenities.

There was a field, backstop, two dugouts made of cinder block and stands for a few people behind the backstop. There was no fencing, no dressing room and no clubhouse.

That was it.

There wasn’t even a portable toilet for players or fans to utilize.

If they had to relieve themselves, the closest location was the school cafeteria about 100 yards away.

“When I first got to Cumberland as an assistant coach, I was just glad to get an opportunity,” said Hunt.

“The person who was the head coach at the time was the athletic director, basketball coach and baseball coach.

“We had hardly anything on the baseball field. We had the backstop, the dugouts made of cinder block and an open area. We had one small set of bleachers behind the backstop and a portable tent as our concession stand. It was bare bones basically.”

Builds Amazing Facility When Hunt was named the head coach starting with the 1982 season, he had a burning passion to change the culture of baseball as his program became symbolic of the Phoenix logo.

He wasn’t simply a baseball coach. Out of necessity, he was the head groundskeeper and did the laundry for all baseball uniforms since he lived on campus.

“I used to live on campus with the players early in my career at Cumberland. They would drop

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off their dirty uniforms to my apartment, and I would clean the uniforms at night. Our goal was to never wear a dirty uniform on the field whether we were at home or on the road.

“It was a major chore before the clubhouse was built. Hour after hour, the uniforms would be scrubbed to get stains out. We used some interesting concoctions to spray stains. My son Ryan now helps with the laundry detail, and we have a much better way of soaking and washing the uniforms than we did back then. We are very particular with the care of them.”

He begged, borrowed and sold people in the community on the notion that Cumberland’s facilities must be improved. And he refused to stop in his quest to have great facilities. Year after year, he made the conditions better for his program.

Over the next 33 years, he helped raise approximately $2 million in donations, labor and materials to put together one of the best college baseball facilities in the nation.

Cumberland now has 500 chair back seats and a state-of-the-art press box.

They also have an indoor hitting complex which provides yeararound access to Bulldog hitters and pitchers for workouts in inclement weather.

In addition, they also have a stunning clubhouse with 40 individual lockers as well as a lounge with a big-screen television, coaches offices, dressing areas and trophy cases.

And yes, they also have a place to relieve yourself. No need to use the cafeteria any more.

Groundskeeping is so important to Hunt that the coaches and players still make sure everything is perfect on the field. Every once in a while, you will still see this Hall of Fame coach do the laundry to help out as well. Nothing is too small for him.

“We tried to improve our field over the decades by doing something every year,” said Hunt.

“We had to beg, borrow and almost steal to transform our facility. We solicited people in the community who could do work for us. We asked fathers, players and many people to help us. And many people came through to help us accomplish the dream of our field and facility. It’s amazing what we have done over the years without having to contract it out.

“Now we have a pretty nice field and facility.”

Hunt said that the founder of Cracker Barrel Restaurant and Old Country Store gave $100,000 to his facility project.

“We had a wonderful lady in town named Jeanette Rudy who owned a lot of property around Opryland and also owned Rudy’s Farm Sausage before selling that to Sara Lee. The baseball team did chores around her place, and she was a big contributor to our program over many years.

“At one point, she was giving our program $10,000 a year. When we won the national title, we got off the plane, and she gave us a check for $25,000 to pay for the rings. She was just wonderful as a friend as well. Jeanette passed away a couple of years ago.”

Passion For Baseball The genesis of his love for the game began on his family’s farm in Danville, Ky.

“I grew up on the farm and played a lot of baseball in the cow pastures with my brother Ray,” said Hunt.

“My dad really enjoyed the game as well as I collected baseball cards and did what everybody else did back in those days. We didn’t have a TV for a while. But when we did get one, we watched Cincinnati Reds’ games on a black and white television. Through the process of playing the game over the years, I developed a great love for baseball.”

A deeply religious man, he doesn’t ware his convictions on his sleeve or try to convert people.

But he does demand that his players respect the game of baseball and play it the right way. He is adamant that they also be model citizens and represent themselves, their family and school in the right way.

“I am a little tougher than people might think and very demanding.

We try to do it the right way.

“When I was younger, I had more of a fire burning inside me.

But over time, you get more gentle.

Our coaching staff has a certain standard that we try to get our players to live up to. And if they don’t, then that gets me going a little bit.”

Hunt was asked what he has learned along his journey of being a head baseball coach for 33 years.

“Persistence is probably No. 1. You also have to be consistent and have high expectations from yourself. If you don’t, then you won’t have that important quality your team needs.

“You learn something every year in coaching. Every decade changes, and I have had the privilege of coaching over five decades in the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, 2000s and now the 2010s. I wasn’t the head coach of a program until 1982.

You never stop learning when you coach.

“The three championships we have won were made possible by struggles we had early in my coching career at Cumberland.

We had to build tradition before we built the program to the level we wanted. We probably had three other teams that could have won the national title that fell just short.

“The hurt of losing national championship games is equal to the joy of winning it all. It can be devastating to come far and lose in the title game. Players and coaches within our program are very close knit. The success we have feeds off itself from one year to another.”

Keys To Success Hunt was asked what he feels are the most valuable components to having a great college baseball program.

“We have hung our hat on offense and starting pitching. Of course defense and base running are important as well.

“We demand that our pitchers throw strikes, and it is emphasized day after day. I like guys who are capable of not only throwing fastballs for strikes, but breaking balls and changeups. If you have three pitches and can command your fastball, you will win a lot of games. “ We g e t h a r d t h r o w e r s occasionally. But if they don’t have command, that great velocity won’t do you any good.

“Our pitching coach Kevin Hite was an All-American here. He had See CUMBERLAND, Page 11

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Page 11

Cumberland Led By Amazing Skipper Woody Hunt Continued From Page 10

great command when he was a pitcher. We have very organized bullpens and demand that our guys throw strikes. I don’t think we do anything differently than other teams. But we just demand that they have command. That’s the key.

“We don’t have certain strike percentages we strive for with our pitchers. But we have to get ahead of hitters. That’s the No. 1 thing.

Our definition of command and control is simply to get ahead of hitters. If you have control, you can do that.

“The emphasis now in baseball is velocity. There is no question about it. Kids grow up today and throw hard. It has been pounded in their heads so often at a young age. It’s the No. 1 thing kids want to do.

“A true pitcher is what we like to have. His velocity is secondary to us. There probably is a little too much emphasis on velocity in baseball now.

“I’m a big believer in extending pitchers. We have become too specific with pitching staffs. During our national championship run in 2014, we demanded complete games from our starting pitchers.

We had no choice because we were a little bit short in our bullpen.

Our starters knew that when they went out there, they had to go deep into games. And because they understood that, they became better pitchers.

“We want to have great bullpens.

There is no question about that.

But we like to extend our starters as well.”

Hunt said that his starting pitchers who throw a lot of innings during a season are given the option of playing summer ball or resting their arms.

“Staying healthy is obviously very important. And we don’t have any secret to keeping them away from injuries. But one thing they do is throw a lot to keep their arms in shape by throwing. That has helped quite a bit. With our upper classmen, I don’t demand summer league pitching. If they don’t feel like they need to pitch during the

AMAZING LEADER — Coach Woody Hunt has led Cumberland University to a 1,452-604-4 record in 33 seasons. we make hitters? No. I am asked summer, take a rest.

“Having summers off for upper all the time what our philosophy class pitchers who have thrown is with hitting. I tell everyone that 90-100 innings can be very good we recruit great hitters to start with. for them. However, if pitchers on Then you tweak them and have our staff didn’t throw many innings them in a program that allows them during the spring season, they to tap their potential.

“I love guys who can drive the may want to extend themselves a bit during the summer. So it all ball. We don’t have teams that bunt the ball all over the place. But we depends on the work load.

“This philosophy has helped our program out a lot.”

High Powered Offenses Under Hunt, his teams have scored a lot of runs over the years and constantly put pressure on defenses with their running game.

“We recruit hitters who make great contact and consistent contact and focus on how they drive the ball. We look at how balls get through the infield and how they carry to the outfield fence. Being athletic is important as well. Do

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do use the sacrifice bunt when the game calls for it.

“We want the mentality of our hitters to be that they came here to hit. Cumberland is the place to be if you want to be a hitter. We give them the freedom to swing the bat. I really look at the number of doubles a player hits and his home run total to a degree, although that number has come down (with the use of BBCOR bats).

“Up and down the lineup, we have guys who can drive the ball.

We also like guys who can get on base and steal. My goal used to be 100 stolen bases and 100 home runs every season. But it is more difficult to hit the home run number now with the bats we are using.”

Last season, Cumberland swiped 70 bases in 91 attempts, hit 125 doubles and cracked 48 homers.

“You might have a hitter who has tremendous bat speed. But what kind of contact does he make?

Contact is incredibly important when we evaluate hitters. If they are a home run type hitter with power and have strikeouts, that’s OK. As long as they are producing with the power game, that will work for us.

“Guys who can put the ball in

play with authority is important with us. We don’t want our hitters to be defensive with two strikes.

“We also like guys who can run.

But sometimes it’s hard to find hitters who can run.”

Having disciplined hitters are also important in Hunt’s system.

“We like to have a lot of walks during the season which means we have been disciplined at the plate.

Last season, we had a number of walks (293) and had a lot of runners on base.”

Cumberland also had 75 batters hit by pitches and had a .405 onbase percentage.

When you factor in all of these offense elements, you score a lot of runs. Last year Cumberland scored 495 runs over 69 games for an average of 7.1 per game.

“Having hitters with good eyes was a key to us winning the national title last year. It seemed like we always had runners on base. We don’t always have that. Sometimes you have teams with free swingers.

There are different ways you can be successful on the offensive end.

We try to coach to our players’ abilities. And we never try to clone See PLAYERS, Page 42

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2015 College Preview Collegiate Baseball

Page 1

Friday, Jan. , 015

No. 1 Vanderbilt Loaded With Top Pitching

By LOU PAVLOVICH, JR. Editor/Collegiate Baseball

RHP CARSON FULMER

…7-1, 10 saves, 1.98 ERA with 98 strikeouts, upper 90s FB away from the baseball team after As far as position players, failing to meet “team standards.”

Vanderbilt returns five starters, He was superb last fall as his including two Louisville Slugger fastball was consistently at 89-92 pre-season All-Americans in mph. Pfeifer set the Tennessee prep Swanson and Reynolds. record with a 46-4 career record, Also back is OF Rhett Wiseman won four state titles at Farragut H.S. (.277, 18 2B, 30 RBI, 12 SB), 1B in Knoxville, Tenn. and set a state Zander Wiel (.260, 5 HR, 14 2B, 44 mark with 465 strikeouts during RBI, 13 SB), C Jason Delay and C his career.

Karl Ellison (both superb defensive

RHP WALKER BUEHLER

…12-2, 2.64 ERA, 111 strikeouts, 92-95 mph fastball, projected first round draft pick

Photo courtesy of Vanderbilt athletics

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Armed with one of the top pitching staffs in the nation and five returning position player starters, Vanderbilt is ranked No. 1 in Collegiate Baseball’s Fabulous 40 NCAA Division I pre-season poll presented

by Big League Chew bubble gum.

The defending national champions feature four Louisville Slugger pre-season All-Americans including RHP Carson Fulmer (71, 10 SV, 1.98 ERA, 98 K), RHP Walker Buehler (12-2, 2.64 ERA, 111 K), SS Dansby Swanson (.333, 27 2B, 34 RBI, 22 SB) and LF Bryan Reynolds (.338, 24 2B, 54 RBI, 14 SB).

The pre-season poll factors in voting by NCAA Division I coaches across the nation, how a team finished last season, returning position player starters and pitchers, potential draft picks along with the quality of its recruiting class last fall.

There are a number of compelling reasons to pick Vanderbilt as the pre-season No. 1 team.

Tremendous Pitching At the top of the list is the Commodores’ pitching staff which features two pre-season AllAmericans in Fulmer and Buehler.

Both are expected to be first round draft picks next June. Fulmer has a mid to upper 90s fastball in addition to a plus slider and developing change. Buehler fired pitches from 92-95 mph during the summer in the Cape Cod League.

Vanderbilt also has RHP Tyler Ferguson back (8-4, 2.69 ERA, 65 K, 30 BB), closer Hayden Stone (3 SV, 4-0, 1.71 ERA, 23 AP, 80 K, 14 BB) and LHP John Kilichowski (1.57 ERA, 13 AP, 22 K).

If that wasn’t enough, LHP Philip Pfeifer returns after a year

receivers).

Last season Vanderbilt ranked No. 3 in the nation in strikeouts per nine innings at 8.9 and No. 3 in hits allowed per nine innings at 6.84.

Look for more of the same in 2015 by a deep, experienced Commodore pitching staff.

Sound Defense H e a d C o a c h Ti m C o r b i n routinely has teams that have superb defenses, and the 2015 ball club should feature another one.

The outfield should be excellent.

Reynolds patrolled left field last season and made several spectacular catches at the College World Series at the wall.

Rightfielder Wiseman also made several clutch catches during the College World Series.

Centerfielder John Norwood is gone, but freshman Jeren Kendall (Holmen H.S., WI) was outstanding last fall. He was the Wisconsin Player of The Year in 2013 and 2014 and was drafted in the 30th round last June by Boston.

The infield appears set with a number of returners, including the catcher position with Delay and Ellison who both played last season as freshmen.

In 72 games one year ago, Vanderbilt only allowed 49 stolen bases in 67 attempts. Stopping the running game of opponents should once again be a strong suit of the Commodores.

Pressure & Discipline Two of the most important ingredients that allowed Vanderbilt to win its first national title in 2014 was relentless pressure on the base paths and hitting discipline.

The Commodores swiped 17 bases in 23 attempts over seven games at the College World Series which was three times more than any other team in the field. On defense, Vanderbilt only allowed 3 stolen bases in 13 NCAA tournament games.

The 17 stolen bases tied a College World Series record for most stolen bases.

Vanderbilt ended the season with 120 stolen bases which ranked third nationally.

Four of the top base stealers are back in 2015 with Swanson (22), Reynolds (14), Wiel (13) and Wiseman (12).

Discipline at the plate by Commodore hitters was another crucial element to winning the title as they walked 35 times in seven games — 15 more than any of the other seven teams in the College World Series field.

This disciplined approach paid off big in the first Championship Finals’ game as Vanderbilt scored nine runs in the top of the third inning on only three hits.

Commodore hitters forced AllAmerican Virginia pitcher Nathan Kirby to walk an uncharacteristic five batters while also collecting a double and single along with causing an error.

Vanderbilt took a 9-2 lead but held on to win, 9-8 after a furious Virginia rally as the Cavaliers out hit Vanderbilt, 15-6.

Overall last season, the Commodores walked 269 times.

But late in the season, hitters simply would not swing at marginal pitches.

Vanderbilt also is superb at the short game on offense and can bunt on any team with traditional bunts, drags or push bunts. In 2014, Commodore hitters had 66 sacrifice bunts. Hitters and runners are just as adept at executing a hit and run or double steal.

In short, they have a diverse offense which is similar to the spread offense in football. They can score in many different ways.

Resilience Factor This year’s team has a number of players back who have experience with winning at the highest level in NCAA Division I baseball.

And possibly the most important element of experience is being resilient.

After starting last season with a 19-3 record, the Commodores struggled over the next 19 games with a 10-9 record as Vanderbilt lost four of five Southeastern Conference series.

Then during the SEC Tournament as the No. 6 seed, the Commodores won their first game, 3-2 over Tennessee and then were drilled two straight, 11-1 in seven innings against Louisiana St. and 7-2 vs.

Ole Miss.

Vanderbilt qualified for a regional and won the Nashville Regional, Nashville Super Regional and ultimately captured the College World Series.

“This is a new group and a new team but a very talented group that is growing into a team,” said Corbin.

“Many of our pitchers return and will have to share the wealth so to speak. They have grown nicely in the past couple of years. They are all self starters and extremely motivated and do an excellent job of coaching themselves. They also have tremendous passion about getting better and striving for excellence. It’s nice to have this type of leadership back.”

Corbin reflected on the tremendous experience his 2015 ball club has.

“That’s always good to have.

The SEC is a battleground for teams, and it can prepare you for the playoffs. But it also can weaken you where losses generate doubts.

Players must continually move forward. We struggled at one point last season but came back from the SEC wars and played outstanding baseball during the playoffs against some terrific ball clubs.

“Just to get to the College World Series, we had to get past a superb Oregon ball club and then Stanford in the Super Regional.”

Corbin said his team only has 33 ball players. So staying away from injuries is essential “We need to stay away from the injury bug and improve on a daily basis so we can be competitive again. If all of our kids embrace their roles, we have a chance to have a good season.

“I don’t see us No. 1 going into the season. But when you win the College World Series and have kids coming back, many people look at you in a different light. And I get that. This team must build its own identity.”

Five superb players are gone off last year’s title team. But the 2015 ball club has all the ingredients to repeat as champions.

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Page 13

Commodores Loaded For 2015 Repeat 1. VANDERBILT

COACH: Tim Corbin (516-250 with the Commodores; 622-388 overall) 2014 RECORD National Champions 2014 FINISH: 51-21 TOP RETURNEES: SS Dansby Swanson (.333, 3 HR, 27 2B, 34 RBI, 22 SB); OF Bryan Reynolds (.338, 4 HR, 24 2B, 54 RBI, 14 SB); OF Rhett Wiseman (.277, 18 2B, 30 RBI, 12 SB); 1B Zander Wiel (.260, 5 HR, 14 2B, 44 RBI, 13 SB); C Jason Delay (.246, 9 2B, 13 RBI, 1 SB); C Karl Ellison (.192, 9 RBI); RHP Carson Fulmer (7-1, 1.98 ERA, 91 IP, 95 K, 41 BB, 10 SV); RHP Walker Buehler (12-2, 2.64 ERA, 102.1 IP, 111 K, 31 BB); RHP Tyler Ferguson (8-4, 2.69 ERA, 77 IP, 65 K, 30 BB); RP Hayden Stone (3 SV, 4-0, 1.71 ERA, 23 APP, 80 K, 14 BB); RP John Kilichowski (0-0, 1.57 ERA, 13 APP, 22 K, 8 BB); LHP Philip Pfeifer (missed 2014 season for failing to meet “team standards” but pitched extremely well last fall. Had vaunted career at Farragut H.S. in Knoxville, Tenn. where he set a state record with 465 strikeouts during his career and was a Louisville Slugger All-American.

He also set a Tennessee prep record with a 46-4 career record and won four state titles at Farragut H.S. He was drafted in the 44th round only because he let be known he was going to Vanderbilt).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 3B Will Toffey (Salisbury School, MA); OF Jeren Kendall (Holmen HS, WI); INF/P Kyle Wright (Buckhorn HS, AL) INF Liam Sabino (Blair Academy, PA); P Brendan Spagnuolo (Chaminade Prep, NY); P Matt Ruppenthal (Brother Rice HS, MI); P Joey Abraham (Central HS, AR).

KEY LOSSES: P Tyler Beede (Led team with 116 K, drafted); P Adam Ravenelli (Posted lowest ERA 1.35, closed out CWS); SS Vince Conde (1st Team All-SEC); P Brian Miller (VU all-time saves leader); OF John Norwood (Hit CWS clinching HR).

2015 OUTLOOK: The defending national champions return an incredible pitching staff led by two Louisville Slugger Pre-Season All-Americans in RHP Carson Fulmer (7-1, 10 SV, 1.98 ERA, 95 K) and RHP Walker Buehler (12-2, 2.64 ERA, 111 K). Both are expected to be first round draft picks next June. Fulmer has a mid to upper 90s fastball in addition to a plus slider and developing change. RHP Tyler Ferguson is also back (8-4, 2.69 ERA, 65 K) along with RHP Hayden Stone (3 SV, 4-0, 1.71 ERA, 80 K). If that wasn’t enough, LHP Philip Pfeifer returns after a year away from Vanderbilt after failing to meet “team standards.” He was superb last fall as his fastball was consistently at 89-92 mph. Pfeifer set the Tennessee prep record with a 46-4 career record, won four state titles at Farragut H.S. in Knoxville, Tenn. and set a state mark with 465 strikeouts during his career. As far as position players, Vanderbilt returns five starters, including two Louisville Slugger preseason All-Americans in SS Dansby Swanson (.333, 27 2B, 34 RBI, 22 SB) and LF Bryan Reynolds (.338, 24 2B, 54 RBI, 14 SB) who made several circus catches at the wall during the 2014 College World Series. Five key players are gone off last year’s championship team. But the 2015 ball club has all the ingredients to repeat as national champions with great pitching, defense and speed on offense as the Volunteers swiped 120 bases last season and limited opponents to only 49.

2. TEXAS CHRISTIAN

COACH: Jim Schlossnagle (465-221 in 11 years with the Horned Frogs; 542-268 overall) 2014 RECORD 48-18 2014 FINISH: Fifth place in College World Series TOP RETURNEES: 2B Garrett Crain (.324, 1 HR, 9 2B, 19 RBI, 8 SB); SS Keaton Jones (.266, 4 2B, 21 RBI, 9 SB); 3B Derek Odell (.265, 1 HR, 8 2B, 35 RBI, 8 SB); OF Cody Jones (.265, 9 2B, 18 RBI, 29 SB); RHP Preston Morrison (9-4, 1.32 ERA, 129.2 IP, 95 K, 21 BB); LHP Tyler Alexander (10-3, 2.36 ERA, 99 IP, 59 K, 11 BB); RP Riley Ferrell (15 SV, 3-1, 0.79 ERA, 31 APP, 70 K, 13 BB); RP Trey Teakell (2 SV, 6-1, 2.34 ERA, 26 APP, 41 K, 13 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: C Evan Skoug (Libertyville HS, IL); INF Elliott Barzilli (Georgia Tech); OF Dan Steinhagen (Howard College); OF Nolan Brown (Blinn College); OF Connor Wanhanen (Flower Mound HS, TX); C Zack Pluckett (LD Bell HS, TX).

KEY LOSSES: P Brandon Finnegan (9-3, 134 K, 105.2 IP, All American); P Jordan Kipper (8-3, 17 APP, 12 starts, 75.1 IP, 74 K); OF Boomer White (.315, 49 RBI); OF Dylan Fitzgerald (.307, 34 RBI); C Kyle Bacak (.269, 63 starts, .993 fldg %).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Horned Frogs return an imposing pitching staff led by two Louisville Slugger pre-season All-Americans in RHP Preston Morrison (9-4, 1.32 ERA, 95 K) and closer Riley Ferrell (15 SV, 3-1, 0.79 ERA). Ferrell is expected to be a high first round pick with a fastball that has topped out at 99-100 mph. TCU also has LHP Tyler Alexander back (10-3, 2.36 ERA) and RHP Trey Teakell (6-1, 2 SV, 2.34 ERA) along with other superb pitchers. On offense, the team returns only four starters. But TCU landed an exceptional recruiting class that will allow the Horned Frogs to be a more athletic team than last season and potentially score more runs. Defense is excellent and should once again be a staple of the program.

3. VIRGINIA

COACH: Brian O’Connor (514-177-2 in 11 years with the Cavaliers) 2014 RECORD 53-16 2014 FINISH: Second at College World Series TOP RETURNEES: 2B John LaPrise (.348, 1 HR, 10 2B, 17 RBI, 5 SB); SS Daniel Pinero (.261, 6 2B, 22 RBI, 10 SB); 3B Kenny Towns (.278, 2 HR, 14 2B, 36 RBI, 6 SB); OF Joe McCarthy (.301, 6 HR, 16 2B, 49 RBI, 11 SB); LHP Nathan Kirby (9-3, 2.06 ERA, 113.1 IP, 112 K, 33 BB); RHP Josh Sborz (6-4, 2.92 ERA, 77 IP, 72 K, 44 BB); LHP Brandon Waddell (10-3, 2.45 ERA, 114 IP, 73 K, 19 BB); RP Connor Jones (1 SV, 4-1, 3.13 ERA, 25 APP, 40 K, 23 BB); RP David Rosenberger (1-1, 2.82 ERA, 16 APP, 16 K, 8 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: P/OF Adam Haseley (The First Academy, FL); P/1B Pavin Smith (Palm Beach Gardens HS, FL); P Derek Casey (Hanover HS, VA); P Tommy Doyle (Flint Hill HS, VA); INF Ernie Clement (Brighton HS, NY); INF Charlie Cody (Great Bridge HS, VA); INF Jack Gerstenmaier (Freeman HS, VA).

KEY LOSSES: P Nick Howard (All American, ACC saves record with 20); OF Mike Papi (All American, led team in batting with .307); OF Derek Fisher (.260, 3 HR, 29 RBI); 2B Branden Cogswell (All-ACC, All-CWS team); OF Brandon Downes (All-CWS team, .241, 7 HR, 40 RBI).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Cavaliers came within one win of winning the national title last season. Virginia returns an exceptional pitching staff led by Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American LHP Nathan Kirby (9-3, 2.06 ERA, 112 K, 33 BB, 95 mph FB) along with RHP Josh Sborz (6-4, 2.92 ERA, 72 K), AllAmerican LHP Brandon Waddell (10-3, 2.45 ERA, 73 K) and a host of other quality hurlers. The Cavaliers return four position player starters, including All-American OF Joe McCarthy (.301, 16 2B, 49 RBI) and feature some exceptional newcomers among a 13-man recruiting class that was landed last fall. “We have a good mix of experienced players as well as a wealth of talented freshmen,” said Head Coach Brian O’Connor. “Certainly, the talent’s there. We have a lot of guys with good arms on the mound, and we have some good, athletic position players. But we have a lot of work to do.”

4. LOUISIANA ST.

COACH: Paul Mainieri (361-149-3 in 8 years with the Fighting Tigers;

1,225-641-8 overall)

2014 RECORD 46-16-1 2014 FINISH: Second at Baton Rouge Regional TOP RETURNEES: OF Andrew Stevenson (.335, 7 2B, 32 RBI, 9 SB); SS Alex Bregman (.316, 6 HR, 16 2B, 47 RBI, 12 SB); 2B Conner Hale (.306, 4 HR, 11 2B, 29 RBI); DH Kade Scivicque (.304, 7 HR, 9 2B, 31 RBI); OF Mark Laird (.291, 10 2B, 27 RBI, 10 SB); OF Jake Fraley (.372, 3 HR, 7 2B, 29 RBI, 8 SB); LHP Jared Poche (9-3, 2.45 ERA, 91.2 IP, 52 K, 26 BB); LHP Kyle Bouman (5-2, 2.12 ERA, 63.2 IP, 32 K, 16 BB); RP Alden Cartwright (1-1, 2.41 ERA, 21 APP, 25 K, 13 BB); RP Zac Person (3-1, 2.57 ERA, 31 APP, 29 K, 12 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: LHP Jake Latz (Lemont HS, IL); C Mike Papierski (Lemont HS, IL); RHP Jake Godfrey (Providence HS, IL); INF Grayson Byrd (King’s Ridge HS, GA); RHP Alex Lange (Lee’s Summit HS, MO); RHP Doug Norman (Ardrey Kell HS, NC); INF Greg Deichmann (Brother Martin HS, LA).

KEY LOSSES: RHP Aaron Nola (11-1, 1.47 ERA, 134 K, National Pitcher of the Year); 1B yler Moore (.301, 10 2B, 6 HR, 37 RBI); DH Sean McMullen (.288, 18 2B, 7 HR, 45 RBI); 3B Christian Ibarra (.238, 7 2B, 3 HR, 22 RBI); RHP Joe Broussard (3-2, 1.05 ERA, 37 K, 8 SV).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Tigers return six position player starters and two key pitchers from last season including Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American LHP Jared Poche (9-3, 2.45 ERA, 52 K) and pre-season AllAmerican SS Alex Bregman (.316, 6 HR, 16 2B, 47 RBI) who is expected to be a first round pick next June. Last fall, LSU landed the No. 1 recruiting class in the nation. Of the 11 recruits, four were drafted last June while five other players were high school All-Americans. “We are very excited about the veteran core of last season’s team returning,” said Head Coach Paul Mainieri. “We had five players make the All-Star teams in the Cape Cod League over the summer, and that’s almost unheard of. Combining those players with the nation’s No. 1 recruiting class gives us a lot of optimism.”

5. OKLAHOMA ST.

COACH: Josh Holliday (89-37 in 3 years with the Cowboys) 2014 RECORD 48-18 2014 FINISH: Second at Stillwater Super Regional TOP RETURNEES: SS Donnie Walton (.310, 3 HR, 15 2B, 36 RBI, 7 SB); 2B Tim Arakawa (.265, 4 HR, 6 2B, 44 RBI, 15 SB); OF Gage Green (.310, 3 HR, 14 2B, 30 RBI, 20 SB); OF/RHP Conor Costello ( .240, 9 HR, 10 2B, 27 RBI, 4 SB, 0-1, 6.43 ERA, 7 IP); 1B Dustin Williams (.316, 3 HR, 1 2B, 21 RBI, 2 SB); OF Ryan Sluder (.284, 1 2B, 7 RBI, 1 SB); C Bryan Case (.262, 4 HR, 5 2B, 14 RBI, 2 SB); RHP Jon Perrin (8-5, 2.38 ERA, 102 IP, 81 K, 29 BB); RHP Tyler Buffett (2-1, 2.95 ERA, 55 IP, 36 K, 24 BB); LHP Garrett Williams (4-1, 5.40 ERA, 41.2 IP, 50 K, 31 BB, 2 SV); RP Blake Battenfield (4-0, 1.69 ERA, 27 APP, 38 K, 20 BB); RP Trey Cobb (0-0, 3.12 ERA, 18 APP, 28 K, 18 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 1B Caleb Eldridge (Deer Creek HS, OK); RHP Koda Glover (Eastern Oklahoma State); RHP Remey Reed (Navarro College) 3B David Petrino (Central Arizona College); SS Jacob Chappell (Guthrie HS, OK); OF Jon Littell (Stillwater HS, OK); 1B Mason O’Brien (Owasso HS, OK).

KEY LOSSES: RHP Brendan McCurry (All American); RHP Vince Wheeland (2 time All-Big 12 First Team); OF Zach Fish (All American, Big 12 Player of the Year); 1B Tanner Krietemeier (HM All-Big 12); 3B Craig McConaughy (HM All-Big 12).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Cowboys came within a couple of wins from qualifying for the College World Series last season. Seven position player starters are back along with five key pitchers. If that wasn’t enough, OSU landed the fifth best recruiting class in the nation last fall, according to Collegiate Baseball.

Five newcomers turned down top 10 round offers from professional baseball organizations to attend Oklahoma St. Head Coach Josh Holliday and his staff have done a remarkable job of bringing back the program to the level of the glory years OSU had under Coach Gary Ward. The Cowboys have qualified for the College World Series 19 times over the years, but not since 1999 — 15 years ago. Look for them to return to the CWS in 2015 with a deep and talented ball club.

6. FLORIDA

COACH: Kevin O’Sullivan (292-155 in 7 years with the Gators) 2014 RECORD 40-23 2014 FINISH: Fourth at Gainesville Regional TOP RETURNEES: 1B Peter Alonso (.264, 4 HR, 6 2B, 32 RBI, 1 SB); SS Richie Martin (.265, 1 HR, 11 2B, 27 RBI, 18 SB); 3B Josh Tobias (.305, 3 HR, 4 2B, 8 RBI, 2 SB); OF Buddy Reed (.244, 7 2B, 6 RBI, 5 SB); OF Harrison Bader (.337, 2 HR, 6 2B, 24 RBI, 13 SB); RHP Logan Shore (7-4, 2.16 ERA, 95.2 IP, 68 K, 20 BB); LHP/DH AJ Puk (5-2, 3.19 ERA, 42.1 IP, 46 K, 18 BB, 1 SV); RHP Eric Hanhold (4-3, 4.20 ERA, 49.1 IP, 36 K, 18 BB, 3 SV); RP Bobby Poyner (4 SV, 5-4, 3.47 ERA, 28 APP, 46 K, 10 BB); RP Danny Young (1 SV, 5-0, 2.23 ERA, 48.1 IP, 36 K, 18 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: C JJ Schwarz (Palm Beach Gardens HS, FL); P Alex Faedo (Alonso HS, FL); INF Dalton Guthrie (Venice HS, FL); C Mike Rivera (Venice HS, FL); P Taylor Lewis (Chipola College); OF Logan Browning (Lakeland Christian, FL); INF Taylor Lane (IMG Academy, FL).

KEY LOSSES: C Taylor Gushue (.316, 49 RBI, 16 2B, 6 HR, 2nd Team All American); 2B Casey Turgeon (.259, 35 BB, 33 RBI, 3-year starter); P Ryan Harris (.3-2, 3.00 ERA, 36 IP, 19 K, 5 SV); P Justin Shafer (1-0, 4.17 ERA, 36.2 IP, 27 K); P Karsten Whitson (1-1, 3.86 ERA, 37.1 IP, 21 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Gators return five position player starters and seven key pitchers off a team which posted the top record in the SEC last season at 21-9. But Florida flamed out at the Gainesville Regional with an 0-2 record.

It marked the second year in a row Florida has gone 0-2 in Regionals. With that said, 2015 should be an exceptional year from a team that rolled to a 40-23 record last season. Also consider that the last two years, Florida has landed the No. 1 national recruiting class in 2013 and No. 3 class last fall which were filled to the brim with amazing talent. “We are eager to blend one of the nation’s top recruiting classes with a strong core of returning players,” said Head Coach Kevin O’Sulivan. “Competition at many positions will make us better and get us ready for the grind of SEC play.” One key player to watch is SS Richie Martin who is expected to be a high draft pick next June. He had a tremendous summer playing in the Cape Cod League for the Bourne Braves as he hit .364 (second in the league) with 3 homers, 6 doubles and 20 RBI. He was third in the league with 17 stolen bases.

7. TEXAS

COACH: Augie Garrido (769-368-2 in 18 years with the Longhorns; 1,920892-9 overall) 2014 RECORD 46-21 2014 FINISH: Third Place at College World Series TOP RETURNEES: SS CJ Hinojosa (.298, 2 HR, 13 2B, 35 RBI, 5 SB); OF Zane Gurwitz (.284, 2 HR, 10 2B, 28 RBI, 9 SB); 2B Brooks Marlow (.268, 3 HR, 11 2B, 21 RBI, 4 SB); OF Collin Shaw (.264, 5 2B, 23 RBI, 13 SB); OF Ben Johnson (.263, 6 HR, 11 2B, 33 RBI, 21 SB); C Tres Barrera (.261, 5 HR, 13 2B, 35 RBI); 1B Kacy Clemens (.212, 1 HR, 4 2B, 21 RBI); RHP Parker French (7-5, 2.41 ERA, 104.2 IP, 62 K, 44 BB, 1 SV); RP Travis Duke (2 SV, 2-1, 0.29 ERA, 29 APP, 27 K, 7 BB); RP Chad Hollingsworth (2 SV, 4-0, 1.15 ERA, 25 APP, 28 K, 13 BB).

Collegiate Baseball’s

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Rank Team (2014 Record) Points 1. Vanderbilt (51-21) 494 2. Texas Christian (48-18) 492 3. Virginia (53-16) 489 4. Louisiana St. (46-16-1) 487 5. Oklahoma St. (48-18) 485 6. Florida (40-23) 483 7. Texas (46-21) 480 8. Houston (48-18) 479 9. Texas Tech. (45-21) 477 10. UCLA (25-30-1) 473 11. Florida St. (43-17) 469 12. Louisville (50-17) 468 13. Cal. Poly (47-12) 467 14. Miami, Fla. (44-19) 465 15. Oregon (44-20) 462 16. U.C. Santa Barbara (34-17-1) 460 17. Cal. St. Fullerton (34-24) 458 18. Stanford (35-26) 457 19. Arizona St. (33-24) 454 20. Mississippi St. (39-24) 452 21. South Carolina (44-18) 449 22. Rice (42-20) 446 23. Liberty (41-18) 445 24. North Carolina (35-27) 443 25. College of Charleston (44-19) 440 26. Georgia Tech. (37-27) 438 27. Kennesaw St. (40-24) 436 28. Clemson (36-25) 432 29. St. John’s (35-20) 430 30. Kent St. (36-23) 427 31. Ball St. (39-18) 425 32. Wichita St. (31-28) 424 33. Tennessee (31-23) 421 34. San Diego (34-20) 419 35. Loyola Marymount (32-24) 417 36. Arkansas (40-25) 414 37. Maryland (40-23) 412 38. Nebraska (41-21) 411 39. U.C. Irvine (41-25) 409 40. Illinois (32-21) 405 Other Teams Receiving Votes: Oregon St. (49-15), San Diego St. (42-21), LouisianaLafayette (58-10), Kentucky (37-25), Washington (41-17-1), Mississippi (48-21), Southern California (29-24), Alabama (37-24), Texas A&M (36-26), Arizona (22-33), New Mexico (37-20), Nevada-Las Vegas (36-25), Dallas Baptist (40-21), Indiana St. (35-18), Sacramento St. (40-24), Troy (25-32), Texas St. (30-28), Pepperdine (43-18), Grand Canyon (30-23), Miami, Ohio (30-27), Southern Mississippi (35-25), Florida International (36-20), Indiana (44-15), Sam Houston St. (4319), Michigan (30-29-1), Central Florida (36-23), Florida Gulf Coast (39-22), Stony Brook (35-18), St. Louis (34-21-1), Seton Hall (39-15), Creighton (32-17-1), Campbell (41-21), South Alabama (22-33), Winthrop (27-30), Coastal Carolina (24-33), William & Mary (34-22), Wright St. (35-22), Central Michigan (35-23), Bryant (42-16), S.E. Missouri St. (37-20), Tennessee Tech. (40-19), Mercer (38-17), Samford (35-25), Western Carolina (37-18), Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (31-27), Southeastern Louisiana (38-25).

Source: Collegiate Baseball Continued On Page 14

Collegiate Baseball

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Friday, Jan. 2, 2015 Salle HS, CA).

KEY LOSSES: LHP Matt Imhof (10-4, 2.45 ERA, 124 K, 99.1 IP); C Chris Hoo (.301, 13 2B, 37 RBI, threw out 21 base stealers); RHP Reed Reilly (12 SV, 3-1, 1.71 ERA, 53 K); 3B Jimmy Allen (.298, 13 2B, 6 HR, 39 RBI).

TOP NEWCOMERS: INF Travis Jones (Alscacoita HS, TX); RHP Connor Mayes (Lake Travis HS, TX); RHP Tyler Schimpf (Capital Christian HS, CA); RHP Kyle Johnston (Flower Mound HS, TX); C Michael Cantu (Moody HS, TX).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Mustangs had a superb season in 2014 as Cal. Poly won the Big West Conference and set a school record with 47 wins.

Six position player starters are back along with four superb pitchers.

Two Louisville Slugger pre-season All-Americans return in RHP Casey Bloomquist (12-2, 1.56 ERA, 74 K) and 2B Mark Mathias (.386, 14 2B, 39 RBI, 12 SB). “We have the possibility of having another solid offense and defensive team with both impact and role players,” said Head Coach Larry Lee. “Pitching should be solid with Casey Bloomquist and Taylor Chris (5 SV, 4-1, 1.61 ERA), but there are question marks after that. It depends on how last year’s freshmen and this year’s newcomers will develop.”

KEY LOSSES: OF Mark Payton (All American, .315, 39 RBi); RHP Nathan Thornhill (All-Big 12, 9-3, 1.51 ERA, 113 IP, 68 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Longhorns finished third in the nation last year at the College World Series and return seven position player starters and 10 pitchers that saw action including RHP Parker French (7-5, 2.41 ERA, 62 K, good command, improved sinker), RHP Chad Hollingsworth (4-0, 2 SV, 1.15 ERA) and closer Travis Duke (2 SV, 2-1, 0.29 ERA). Texas landed a recruiting class last fall that ranked seventh in the nation by Collegiate Baseball and features three drafted players and five All-Americans. The Longhorns did suffer two big losses in All-American CF Mark Payton and RHP Nathan Thornhill, an All-Big 12 selection (9-3, 1.51 ERA).

14. MIAMI, FLA.

COACH: Jim Morris (931-364-3 with the Hurricanes; 1,435-631-4 overall)

8. HOUSTON

2014 RECORD 44-19

COACH: Todd Whitting (129-107-1 with the Cougars)

2014 FINISH: Second at Coral Gables Regional

2014 RECORD 48-18

TOP RETURNEES: C Zack Collins (.298, 11 HR, 14 2B, 54 RBI); 1B David Thompson (.278, 6 2B, 15 RBI); SS Brandon Lopez (.233, 6 2B, 29 RBI, 6 SB); 3B Johnny Ruiz (.229, 7 2B, 11 RBI, 2 SB); OF Jacob Heyward (.205, 2 2B, 4 RBI); OF Willie Abreu (.277, 1 HR, 8 2B, 28 RBI, 4 SB); LHP Andrew Suarez (6-3, 2.96 ERA, 109.2 IP, 87 K, 15 BB); RP Bryan Garcia (15 SV, 1.75 ERA, 56 K); RP Cooper Hammond (2 SV, 5-2, 2.29 ERA, 37 K, 11 BB).

2014 FINISH: Second at Austin Super Regional TOP RETURNEES: 1B Justin Montemayor (.298, 1HR, 15 2B, 31 RBI); OF Kyle Survance (.308, 2 HR, 11 2B, 32 RBI, 31 SB); OF Ashford Fulmer (.267, 4 HR, 9 2B, 32 RBI, 12 SB); 2B Josh Vidales (.285, 5 2B, 30 RBI, 11 SB); 3B Connor Hollis (.321, 4 2B, 8 RBI, 1 SB); OF Michael Pyeatt (.297, 1 HR, 4 2B, 21 RBI, 5 SB); RHP Jake Lamoine (6-8, 2.87 ERA, 106.2 IP, 87 K, 29 BB); RHP Aaron Garza (9-5, 2.92 ERA, 108 IP, 57 K, 11 BB); RHP Andrew Lantrip (6-0, 1.87 ERA, 43.1 IP, 33 K, 7 BB); RP Jared Robinson (5-1, 46.2 IP, 23 APP, 41 K, 16 BB); RP Bubba Maxwell (1 SV, 3-0, 25 IP, 15 APP, 20 K, 5 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: C Ian Rice (Chipola College); RHP Patrick Weigel (Oxnard College); SS Connor Wong (Pearland HS, TX); INF Corey Julks (Clear Brook HS, TX); OF Zac Taylor (Downers Grove South HS, IL); P Marshall Kasowski (Panola JC); P Justin Moore (Lamar CC).

KEY LOSSES: P Chase Wellbrock (All-Region, 1.17 ERA, 12 SV, 5-0, 37 K); P Tyler ford (All-Region, 1.17 ERA, 4 SV, 9-0, 49 K); 1B Casey Grayson (All-Conference, .321, 66 GS, 48 RBI, 6 HR); SS Frankie Ratcliff (.278, 58 GS, 28 RBI, 9 2B); C Caleb Barker (.225, 62 GS, 28 RBI).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Cougars were two wins from the College World Series last year and return six position player starters and a superb pitching staff, including Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American RHP Jake Lemoine who could be a first round pick next June in the draft. He fires a 95 mph fastball and played for Team USA last summer. Other quality pitchers back include RHP Aaron Garza (9-5, 2.92 ERA), RHP Andrew Lantrip (6-0, 1.87 ERA) and Jared Robinson (5-1, 1.35 ERA). “We have a veteran team coming off a great year,” said Head Coach Todd Whitting. “Our weekend rotation is back from one of the best staffs in the nation last season. We return six position player starters and welcome a talented incoming class to fill holes.”

9. TEXAS TECH.

COACH: Tim Tadlock (71-51 in 2 years with the Red Raiders) 2014 RECORD 45-21 2014 FINISH: Tied for seventh at College World Series TOP RETURNEES: 1B Eric Gutierrez (.302, 18 2B, 12 HR, 58 RBI); 2B Bryant Burleson (.272, 21 2B, 2 HR, 37 RBI); SS Tim Proudfoot (.309, 5 2B, 19 RBI); 3B Ryan Long (.212, 7 2B, 22 RBI); OF Tyler Neslony (.375, 12 2B, 6 3B, 4 HR, 34 RBI); OF Stephen Smith (.287, 12 2B, 3 3B, 20 RBI); LHP Dylan Dusek (8-0, 1.94 ERA, 74.1 IP, 38 K, 14 BB); RHP Ryan Moseley (1-2, 2.84 ERA, 50.2 IP, 41 K, 25 BB); RHP Dominic Moreno (4-5, 3.14 ERA, 66 IP, 56 K, 20 BB); RP Cameron Smith (1 SV, 8-3, 2.79 ERA, 25 APP, 44 K); RP Corey Taylor (2 SV, 5-3, 2.61 ERA, 21 APP, 32 K).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Quinn Carpenter (Iowa Western CC); C Kholeton Sanchez (New Mexico JC); RHP Patrick Mahomes (Whitehouse HS, TX); INF Corey Riley (Temple JC); OF Tanner Gardner (Frisco Centennial HS, TX); LHP Parker Mushinski (Argyle HS, TX); LHP Jacob Petterson (Berkner HS, TX).

KEY LOSSES: DH Adam Kirsch (All-Big 12, Conference Newcomer of the Year); LHP Jonny Drozd (5 SV, 7-1, 2.09 ERA, 28 APP, 48 K); LHP Chris Sadberry (5-3, 3.03 ERA, 95 IP, 65 K); OF Devon Conley (.269, 54 G,8 RBI, 5 SB).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Red Raiders had a marvelous season in 2014 as Texas Tech. finished with a 45-21 overall record and seventh place finish at the College World Series. Head Coach Tim Tadlock led the Red Raiders to the biggest turnaround in school history as the team only won 26 games in 2013. Six position player starters are back along with eight pitchers.

Two outstanding position players return in Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American 1B Eric Gutierrez (.302, 12 HR, 18 2B, 58 RBI) and LF Tyler Neslony (.375, 4 HR, 12 2B, 6 3B, 34 RBI). Key returning pitchers include LHP Dylan Dusek (8-0, 1.94 ERA) and RP Ryan Moseley (3 SV, 2.84 ERA).

Texas Tech. also landed the 13th best recruiting class in the nation last fall which features 20 newcomers. “On paper, I really like what we have,” said Tadlock. “Now we need to go play.”

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Justin Smith (Bartram Trail HS, FL); 3B George Iskenderian (Indian River CC); RHP Andy Honiotes (Geneva, IL, Class of 2013); OF Carl Chester (Lake Brantley HS, FL); LHP Michael Mediavilla (Mater Academy, FL); RHP Keven Pimentel (Montverde HS, NY); RHP Devin Meyer (Coral Springs Christian HS, FL);

CLOSER DAVID BERG

…UCLA All-American has appeared in 132 games 2014 FINISH: Fourth at Tallahassee Regional TOP RETURNEES: OF DJ Stewart (.351, 7 HR, 19 2B, 50 RBI, 4 SB); OF Ben DeLuzio (.281, 1 HR, 7 2B, 27 RBI, 16 SB); OF Josh Delph (.268, 14 2B, 20 RBI, 2 SB); 2B John Sansone (.221, 2 HR, 13 2B, 39 RBI, 6 SB); C Danny De La Calle (.224, 3 2B, 29 RBI, 1 SB); 3B Hank Truluck (.286, 1 2B, 3 RBI, 2 SB); RHP Mike Compton (7-3, 3.23 ERA, 83.2 IP, 50 K, 18 BB); LHP Bryant Holtmann (5-1, 3.68 ERA, 36.2 IP, 29 K, 12 BB); LHP Billy Strode (2-1, 2.62 ERA, 48 IP, 49 K, 23 BB); RP Jameis Winston (7 SV, 1-0, 1.08 ERA, 24 APP, 31 K, 7 BB); RP Taylor Blatch (1-0, 6.23 ERA, 14 APP, 11 K, 19 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Cobi Johnson (JW Mitchell HS, FL); INF Taylor Walls (Crisp County HS, GA); 1B Chris Marconcini (Duke University); RHP Boomer Biegalki (Tallahassee CC); RHP Andrew Karp (Winter Garden HS, FL); LHP Alex Deise (St. Petersburg College); INF Darren Miller (Key West HS, FL).

KEY LOSSES: RHP Luke Weaver (8-4, 2.62 ERA, 106.1 IP, 85 K, All American, Gold Glove winner); LHP Brandon Leibrandt (4-1, 1.83 ERA, 39.1 IP, 30 K); SS Justin Gonzalez (.245, 3 HR, 39 RBI, 16 SB); RHP Gage Smith (5-2, 2.39 ERA, 40 APP, 31 K, 3rd Team All-ACC); RHP Peter Miller (3-4, 5.14 ERA, 1 SV, 42 IP, 53 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Seminoles rolled to a 43-17 record last season but finished the season 0-2 at the Tallahassee Regional. Five position player starters return including Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American D.J. Stewart (.351, 7 HR, 19 2B, 50 RBI, ACC Player of The Year in 2014). The pitching staff will be strong with the return of three quality pitchers in RHP Mike Compton (7-3, 3.23 ERA), LHP Bryant Holtmann (5-1, 3.68 ERA) and closer Jameis Winston (7 SV, 1.08 ERA). “We should be a versatile team that has more depth than in years past,” said Head Coach Mike Martin. “We have a good mix of returning players along with new players who come to FSU with a great deal of experience either at the JUCO or D1 level who will help bring the freshmen players along. We have a good slate of arms with a lot of options out of the bullpen.”

12. LOUISVILLE

COACH: Dan McDonnell (359-159 in 8 years with the Cardinals) 2014 RECORD 50-17 2014 FINISH: Tied for seventh at College World Series TOP RETURNEES: OF Corey Ray (.325, 1 HR, 5 2B, 17 RBI, 4 SB); DH Nick Solak (.351, 2 HR, 5 2B, 25 RBI, 9 SB); 1B Danny Rosenbaum (.295, 2 HR, 9 2B, 24 RBI, 3 SB); 2B Zach Lucas (.270, 5 HR, 13 2B, 44 RBI, 7 SB); SS Sutton Whiting (.216, 2 HR, 4 2B, 18 RBI, 37 SB); RHP Kyle Funkhouser (13-3, 1.94 ERA, 120.1 IP, 122 K, 65 BB); RHP Anthony Kidston (9-1, 3.40 ERA, 76.2 Ip, 69 K, 36 BB); LHP Josh Rogers (3-3, 3.63 ERA, 52 IP, 47 K, 12 BB); RP Jake Sparger (2-1, 3.20 ERA, 17 APP, 26 K); RP Zack Burdi (1-0, 4.35 ERA, 13 APP, 6 K).

TOP NEWCOMERS: LHP Brendan McKay (Blackhawk HS, PA); SS Devin Hairston (Tates Creek HS, KY); C Colby Fitch (Columbia Hickman HS, MO); RHP Lincoln Henzman (Lexington Christian Academy, KY); RHP Kade McClure (Mentor HS, OH); C/1B Austin Clemons (St. Xavier HS, KY); RHP Sean Leland (Carl Sandburg HS, IL).

KEY LOSSES: LHP Chris Diaz (All American, ACC Co-Pitcher of the Year); LHP Bryan Radziewski (All-ACC, 2.86 ERA, 111 K); OF Dale Carey (AllACC, 7 HR, 29 RBI); OF Tyler Palmer (.294, 15 2B, 33 RBI, 19 SB); 2B Alex Hernandez (.248, 10 2B, 25 RBI).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Hurricanes return six position player starters led by Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American C Zack Collins (.298, 11 HR, 14 2B, 54 RBI) and two exceptional pitchers in pre-season All-Americans LHP Andrew Suarez (6-3, 2.96 ERA, 87 K, 15 BB, exceptional movement and command of pitches) and closer Bryan Garcia (15 SV, 1.75 ERA, 56 K). Miami also landed a superb recruiting class last fall ranked 20th in the nation which includes 14 newcomers. “Our position players and bullpen are returning and should be very good,” said Head Coach Jim Morris. “We are very fortunate to get Andy Suarez back to anchor our rotation, but we need other pitchers to step up to fill the void.”

15. OREGON

COACH: George Horton (940-410-2 in 23 years as a college coach) 2014 RECORD 44-20 2014 FINISH: Second at Nashville Regional TOP RETURNEES: : C Shaun Chase (.283, 14 HR, 9 2B, 37 RBI); 1B Mitchell Tolman (.315, 2 HR, 18 2B, 49 RBI); OF AJ Balta (.242, 3 HR, 12 2B, 29 RBI); LHP Cole Irvin (injured in 2014); P Stephen Nogosek (1-1, 2.52 ERA, 27 K, 16 BB); RP Garrett Cleavinger (2 SV, 3-2, 3.34 ERA, 36 APP).

TOP NEWCOMERS: LHP David Peterson (Regis Jesuit HS, CO); C Tim Susnara (St. Francis HS, CA); C Slade Heggen (Loyola Sacred Heart HS, CA); INF Matt Eureste (San Jacinto CC); P/OF Connor Harber (Western Nevada CC); INF Daniel Patzlaff (Fountain Valley HS, CA); UT Phil Craig-St. Louis (Seminole State College); LHP Jacob Corn (Manteca HS, CA).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Ducks should have a superb pitching staff in 2015 led by LHP Cole Irvin who sat out his sophomore season in 2014 rehabbing from Tommy John surgery. In 2013, he set a freshman school record for wins with a 12-3 record and posted a 2.48 ERA. He could be a high draft pick next June with great 4-pitch command. LHP Garrett Cleavinger, Oregon’s closer, returns with a 96 mph fastball that has deception. Another pitcher to watch is LHP freshman David Peterson from Regis Jesuit H.S. He is a 6-foot-5 pitcher with a low 90s fastball with late life and run. Oregon returns four position player starters. Plus, the Ducks landed the 19th best recruiting class in the nation which features three drafted players among a class of 14 terrific athletes.

16. U.C. SANTA BARBARA COACH: Andrew Checketts (97-70-1 with the Gauchos) 2014 RECORD 34-17-1 2014 FINISH: Fifth Place in Big West TOP RETURNEES: SS Peter Maris (.271, 1 HR, 7 2B, 29 RBI, 16 SB); DH Robby Nesovic (.325, 1 HR, 15 2B, 33 RBI, 5 SB); INF Woody Woodward (.260, 8 2B, 22 RBI, 6 SB); OF Cameron Newell (.271, 12 2B, 20 RBI, 5 SB); OF Andrew Calica (.310, 6 2B, 20 RBI, 10 SB); OF Scott Quinlan (.265, 1 HR, 5 2B, 9 RBI, 17 SB); LHP Justin Jacome (8-2, 2.61 ERA, 79.1 IP, 47 K 19 BB); RHP Shane Bieber (3-4, 3.76 ERA, 52.2 IP, 33 K, 9 BB); LHP Dominic Mazza (3-2, 4.93 ERA, 49.1 IP, 40 K, 10 BB); RP Dillon Tate (12 SV, 2-1, 1.45 ERA, 28 APP, 46 K, 17 BB).

10. UCLA

KEY LOSSES: RHP Nick Burdi (NCBWA Stopper of the Year, All American); OF/P Cole Sturgeon (All-Conference, 67 GS, made 25 relief appearances); OF Jeff Gardner (All American, American Conference Player of the Year); RHP Jared Ruxer (All-Conference); LHP Kyle McGrath (Made 23 relief appearances with 1.34 ERA).

2014 RECORD 25-30-1

2015 OUTLOOK: The Cardinals finished tied for seventh at the 2014 College World Series and return five position player starters and another outstanding pitching staff led by Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American RHP Kyle Funkhouser (13-3, 1.94 ERA, 122 K, projected first round pick next June) and RHP Anthony Kidston (9-1, 3.40 ERA, 69 K). Louisville also brought in a superb recruiting class last fall which features 13 athletes. “We return our starting weekend rotation along with nine position players who saw significant time last year,” said Head Coach Dan McDonnell. One of the most impressive players last fall for the Cardinals was freshman catcher Colby Fitch (Columbia Hickman H.S., MO). In 12 scrimmages, he hit .563 with 2 homers, 3 doubles, 2 triples and 8 RBI. He was the Gatorade Player of The Year in Missouri last season. Louisville’s only returning catcher from last season is Will Smith. He played in 39 games last season and threw out 12 of 17 runners trying to steal. During last fall’s games, he hit .368 with a team-high 13 RBI, 4 doubles, 3 triples and only 3 strikeouts in 45 batting appearances.

KEY LOSSES: UT Joey Epperson (All American, All Conference, .376, 45 R); 1B Tyler Kuresa (9 HR, .495 slugging %); SP Austin Pettibone (22-7 career, third most wins at UCSB); RP Greg Mahle (All Conference, 32 APP).

13. CAL. POLY

2014 RECORD 34-24

COACH: John Savage (349-254-1 in 10 years with the Bruins; 437-338-2 overall) 2014 FINISH: Ninth Place in Pac-12 Conference TOP RETURNEES: OF Ty Moore (.294, 2 HR, 14 2B, 24 RBI, 2 SB); SS Trent Chatterton (.291, 9 2B, 17 RBI); 1B Luke Persico (.246, 7 2B, 15 RBI, 3 SB); OF Christoph Bono (.228, 11 2B, 21 RBI, 5 SB); RHP James Kaprielian (7-6, 2.29 ERA, 106 IP, 108 K, 35 BB); LHP Grant Watson (4-9, 3.80 ERA, 97 IP, 71 K, 26 BB); RHP Cody Poteet (3-5, 4.46 ERA, 78.2 IP, 49 K, 16 BB);RP David Berg (11 SV, 3-2, 1.50 ERA, 31 APP, 35 K, 8 BB); RP Nick Kern (3 SV, 1-1, 4.98 ERA, 33 APP, 38 K, 10 BB), SS Kevin Kramer (injured last season).

TOP NEWCOMERS: INF Sean Bouchard (Cathedral Catholic HS, CA); RHP Griffin Canning (Santa Margarita HS, CA); INF Nick Valaika (Hart HS, CA).

KEY LOSSES: C Shane Zeile (All-Pac 12).

2015 OUTLOOK: UCLA won the national title in 2013 with a 49-17 record but suffered through a number of key injuries last season as the Bruins finished ninth in the Pac-12 Conference. The heart of the Bruins batting order, Eric Filia, Kevin Kramer and Kevin Williams were all injured last season. An exceptional pitching staff returns led by two Louisville Slugger pre-season All-Americans in staff ace RHP James Kaprielian (7-6, 2.29 ERA, 108 K) and closer David Berg (11 SV, 3-2, 1.50 ERA) who may be the greatest closer in college baseball history. Also returning is LHP Grant Watson and RHP Cody Poteet. One of the top fielders in the nation also returns in Kramer who is a pre-season All-American. The Bruins also landed a superb 12-man recruiting class lass fall ranked 17th in the nation by Collegiate Baseball.

We are very excited about our depth on the mound and our position players who are athletic,” said Head Coach John Savage.

11. FLORIDA ST.

COACH: Mike Martin (1,813-628-4 in 36 years with the Seminoles) 2014 RECORD 43-17

COACH: Larry Lee (396-284-2 in 12 years with the Mustangs) 2014 RECORD 47-12 2014 FINISH: Second at San Luis Obispo Regional TOP RETURNEES: 2B Mark Mathias (.386, 2 HR, 14 2B, 39 RBI, 12 SB); SS Peter Van Gansen (.286, 2 2B, 26 RBI, 2 SB); 1B Brian Mundell (.279, 4 HR, 12 2B, 41 RBI, 1 SB); OF Zack Zehner (.316, 3 HR, 7 2B, 16 RBI, 5 SB); OF Jordan Ellis (.245, 8 2B, 23 RBI, 10 SB); 3B John Schukenecht (.286, 1 HR, 7 2B, 11 RBI, 2 SB); RHP Casey Bloomquist (12-2, 1.56 ERA, 98 IP, 74 K, 20 BB, 1 SV); RHP Justin Calomeni (8-2, 3.68 ERA, 73.1 IP, 66 K, 18 BB); RHP Slater Lee (3-2, 6.20 ERA, 49.1 IP, 34 K, 22 BB); RP Taylor Chris (5 SV, 4-1, 1.61 ERA, 24 APP, 53 K, 23 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Michael Gomez (Upland HS, CA); LHP Kyle Smith (Torrance HS, CA); OF Johnny Balliet (Mission Viejo HS, CA); RHP Erich Uelmen (Faith Lutheran HS, NV); RHP Austin Dondanville (De La

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP James Carter (Chabot College) SS Clay Fisher (La Quinta HS, CA); RHP Chris Clements (Pacific Grove HS, CA); 1B Austin Bush (Turlock HS, CA); 1B Kyle Plantier (Temecula Valley HS, CA); RHP Alex Garcia (Bishop Amat HS, Ca); 3B JD Hearn (Mission College).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Gauchos return six position player starters and four quality pitchers including Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American closer Dillon Tate (12 SV, 1.45 ERA) who has topped out with a 99 mph fastball and is expected to be a first round pick next June. “We have a talented and experienced with front line pitching,” said Head Coach Andrew Checketts. “If our top end pitchers remain healthy, we should compete for the conference championship.”

17. CAL. ST. FULLERTON

COACH: Rick Vanderhook (121-55 in 3 years with the Titans) 2014 FINISH: Second at Stillwater Regional TOP RETURNEES: 2B Taylor Bryant (.200, 3 2B, 8 RBI, 1 SB); 1B Tanner Pinkston (.298, 1 HR, 6 2B, 19 RBI, 4 SB); DH David Olmedo-Barrera (.273, 5 2B, 14 RBI, 1 SB); RHP Justin Garza (5-4, 3.22 ERA, 72.2 IP, 60 K, 14 BB); RHP Thomas Eshelman (8-3, 1.89 ERA, 123.2 IP, 99 K, 8 BB); RP Tyler Peitzmeier (0-0, 2.40 ERA, 23 APP, 15 K, 7 BB); RP Willie Kuhl (1-2, 1.37 ERA, 18 APP, 29 K, 11 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Scott Hurst (Bishop Amat HS, CA); INF Tristan Hildebrandt (Esperanza HS, CA); C Chris Hudgins (Valhalla HS, CA); INF Dustin Vaught (Sierra College); RHP Connor Seabold (Newport Harbor HS, CA); LHP John Gavin (St Francis HS, CA).

KEY LOSSES: RHP Phil Bickford (transferred to Southern Nevada JC); 3B Matt Chapman (All West Region, All American); OF JD Davis (All-Big Continued On Page 15

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015 Continued From Page 14

2015 OUTLOOK: The Titans return two of the elite pitchers in NCAA Division I baseball in Louisville Slugger pre-season All-Americans RHP Thomas Eshelman (8-3, 1.89 ERA, 99 K, 8 BB) and RHP Justin Garza (5-4, 3.22 ERA, 95 mph FB). Cal. St. Fullerton suffered a huge loss when RHP Phil Bickford decided to bolt for Southern Nevada J.C. after he was done playing in the Cape Cod League last summer. The move makes him eligible for the 2015 draft. Bickford, who hit 97 mph with his fastball last summer, is expected to be a first round pick next June in the draft after being the 10th pick overall

by Toronto in the 2013 draft as he didn’t accept the Major League Baseball assigned signing price of $2.9 million. Last fall, the Titans landed the 10th best recruiting class in the nation which featured five drafted players among the 17-man class. Among the group is OF Scott Hurst, the leading hitter in the Alaska League last summer from Bishop Amat H.S. (Glendora, Calif.).

He was the CIF Player of The Year last spring. The class also features some outstanding junior college transfers.

TOP NEWCOMERS: LHP Alex Destino (North Buncombe HS, NC); RHP Brandon Murray (Hobart HS, IN); RHP Clarke Schmidt (Allatoona HS, GA); INF Madison Stokes (AC Flora HS, SC); OF Clark Scolamiero (Greenville HS, SC); C Jared Martin (Chattahoochee Valley JC); C Hunter Taylor (Nandua HS, VA).

KEY LOSSES: C Grayson Greiner (.311, 8 HR, 50 RBI, All-SEC); 3B Joey Pankake (.303, 5 HR, 31 RBI); OF Tanner English (.284, 1 HR, 25 RBI, 21 SB); RHP Joel Seddon (3-2, 1.66 ERA, 14 SV, All-SEC); LHP Jordan Montgomery (8-5, 3.42 ERA, 100 IP).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Gamecocks posted a 44-18 record last season and return six position player starters and five superb pitchers led by RHP Wil Crowe (8-3, 2.75 ERA) and LHP Jack Wynkoop (7-6, 2.86 ERA). “We are deep in the infield, and I think they are all very gifted defensively,” said Head Coach Chad Holbrook. “It will bode well for our pitching staff. I also think we can put some tough outs in the lineup. One of the strengths of our team will be the middle of our lineup.”

18. STANFORD

COACH: Mark Marquess (1,530-807-7 in 38 years with the Cardinal)

22. RICE

2014 RECORD 35-26 2014 FINISH: Second at Nashville Super Regional

COACH: Wayne Graham (1,039-420 in 23 years with the Owls; 1,614-533 overall)

TOP RETURNEES: SS Tommy Edman (.256, 3 HR, 18 RBI); OF Zach Hoffpauir (.324, 7 HR, 35 RBI); RHP Cal Quantrill (7-5, 2.68 ERA, 110.2 IP, 98 K, 34 BB); RHP Brett Hanewich (4-4, 3.17 ERA, 76.2 IP, 49 K, 31 BB); LHP John Hochstatter (10-3, 3.36 ERA, 80.1 IP, 38 K, 35 BB); RP Marcus Brakeman (1-3, 3.80 ERA, 45 IP, 19 AP, 41 K, 33 BB); RP Chris Castellanos (0-1, 4.12 ERA, 24 IP, 22 APP, 15 K, 11 BB)

KEY LOSSES: OF Austin Slater (.341, 2 HR, 40 RBI); 1B Danny Diekroeger (.313, 2 HR, 22 RBI); 3B Alex Blandino (.310, 12 HR, 44 RBI); C Brant Whiting (.281, 1 HR, 24 RBI); C Wayne Taylor (.247, 5 HR, 25 RBI).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Cardinal came within one win of the College World Series last season but were eliminated in game three of the Nashville Super Regional by eventual national champion Vanderbilt. Stanford returns a deep and talented pitching staff led by Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American RHP Cal Quantrill (7-5, 2.68 ERA, 98 K, 34 BB as a freshman last season), LHP John Hochstatter (10-3, 3.36 ERA) and RHP Brett Hanewich (4-4, 3.17 ERA, 49 K). But only two position players return in RF Zach Hoffpauir (.324, 7 HR, 35 RBI) and SS Tommy Edman (.256, 3 HR, 18 RBI). “Our pitching projects to be strong after being so young last year,” said Head Coach Mark Marquess. “Obviously, we lost a lot of hitters, so we will have to find replacements.” Stanford landed the eighth best recruiting class in the nation last fall which featured five drafted players.

2014 RECORD 42-20 2014 FINISH: Third at Houston Regional

LIBERTY OF/P ASHTON PERRITT

…Pitcher: 12 SV, 1.52 ERA, Hitter: 12 2B, 24 RBI

20. MISSISSIPPI ST.

COACH: John Cohen (537-351-1 with the Bulldogs) 2014 RECORD 39-24 2014 FINISH: Second at Lafayette Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Gavin Collins (.304, 1 HR, 8 2B, 19 RBI), SS Seth Heck (.299, 8 2B, 26 RBI, 5 SB); OF Jake Vickerson (.264, 5 2B, 15 RBI, 11 SB); OF Cody Brown (.248, 2 HR, 3 2B, 16 RBI, 5 SB); 1B Wes Rea (.245, 5 HR, 9 2B, 41 RBI, 1 SB); 3B Matthew Britton (.233, 1 HR, 3 2B, 13 RBI, 5 SB); DH Reid Humphreys (.241, 1 HR, 1 2B, 8 RBI); LHP Ross Mitchell (8-5, 2.53 ERA, 110.1 IP, 49 K, 30 BB); RHP Trevor Fitts (5-3, 2.58 ERA, 69.2 IP, 58 K, 15 BB); RHP Preston Brown (4-3, 3.00 ERA, 45 IP, 34 K, 19 BB); RP Myles Gentry (4 SV, 0-0, 4.78 ERA, 20 APP, 25 K, 17 BB); RP Vance Tatum (2-0, 4.87 ERA, 15 APP, 18 K, 10 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Jesse McCord (Spanish Fort HS, AL); INF John Holland (Chattahoochee College); INF Luke Reynolds (Hinds CC); LHP Daniel Brown (Tyler College); LHP Paxton Stover (Dyer County HS, TN); RHP Logan Elliott (Tallahassee College); 1B/P Cole Gordon (Stenbrenner HS, FL).

TOP RETURNEES: 1B Connor Teykl (.259, 3 2B, 22 RBI, 1 SB); SS Leon Byrd (.258, 6 2B, 16 RBI, 5 SB); 2B Ford Stainback (.258, 7 2B, 28 RBI, 2 SB); OF Charlie Warren (.264, 13 RBI, 4 SB); C/DH John Clay Reeves (.317, 6 HR, 7 2B, 41 RBI, 1 SB); LHP Blake Fox (12-0, 1.46 ERA, 104.2 IP, 69 K, 27 BB); RHP Kevin McCanna (8-3, 2.69 ERA, 93.2 IP, 65 K, 24 BB); RHP Jon Duplantier (2-3, 2.29 ERA, 59 IP, 58 K, 38 BB, 1 SV); RP Matt Ditman (9 SV, 5-6, 1.83 ERA, 26 APP, 77 K, 12 BB); RP Trevor Teykl (3 SV, 3-0, 2.91 ERA, 26 APP, 41 K, 19 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 3B Tristan Gray (Elkins HS, TX); OF Ryan Chandler (Strake Jesuit HS, TX); RHP Ricardo Salinas (Northshore HS, TX); RHP Dane Myers (Taylor HS, TX); RHP Glenn Otto (Concordia Lutheran HS, TX); DH Andrew Dunlap (redshirt); 3B Grayson Lewis (Navarro College).

KEY LOSSES: P Zech Lemond (4-1, 3 SV, 2.29 ERA, 52 K, 53.2 IP); 1B Skyler Ewing (.335, 9 HR, 48 RBI, 57 R); 3B Shane Hoelscher (.330, 21 2B, 27 RBI, 43 R); OF Michael Aquino (.316, 7 HR, 46 RBI, 38 R); OF Keenan Cook (.278, 11 2B, 30 RBI, 12 SB).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Owls rolled to a 42-20 record last season and finished third at the Houston Regional. Five position player starters are back along with eight superb pitchers led by Louisville Slugger pre-season AllAmerican LHP Blake Fox (12-0, 1.46 ERA, 69 K) and RHP Jon Duplantier (MVP of the NBC World Series last summer playing for the Santa Barbara Foresters, summer stats: 6-2, 1.50 ERA, 74 K, 54 IP). “If (RHP) Jordan Stephens returns to form by April, we will have a top 10 pitching staff,” said Head Coach Wayne Graham. “With catchers John Clay Reeves and Hunter Kopycinski, plus 2B Ford Stainback, SS Leon Byrd and CF Ryan Chandler, our defense up the middle will be outstanding.”

19. ARIZONA ST.

KEY LOSSES: LHP Jacob Lindgren (All American); 2B Brett Pirtle (All-SEC); RHP Jonathan Holder (Most saves in SEC history by 3-year player); OF CT Bradford (All-Region).

23. LIBERTY 2014 RECORD 41-18

2014 RECORD 33-24

2015 OUTLOOK: The Bulldogs return seven position player starters and a host of quality pitchers from a team that finished second at the Lafayette Regional last season. Plus, Mississippi State landed the sixth best recruiting class in the nation last fall which features 16 newcomers. Twelve are either high school or junior college All-Americans.

COACH: Tracy Smith (First year with the Sun Devils; Previously 287-237 in nine years at Indiana) 2014 FINISH: Fourth at San Luis Obispo Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Brian Serven (.249, 3 HR, 9 2B, 27 RBI); 3B/1B Dalton DiNatale (.249, 3 HR, 12 2B, 36 RBI, 7 SB); OF Jake Peevyhouse (.290, 14 2B, 22 RBI, 11 SB); OF Johnny Sewald (.305, 7 2B, 19 RBI, 16 SB); OF Trever Allen (.284, 5 HR, 8 2B, 17 RBI, 2 SB); DH RJ Ybarra (.274, 4 HR, 10 2B, 47 RBI); LHP Brett Lilek (4-5, 2.68 ERA, 84 IP, 79 K, 39 BB); LHP Ryan Kellogg (8-3, 3.76 ERA, 103 IP, 66 K, 22 BB); RHP Darin Gillies (3-4, 4.90 ERA, 71 IP, 50 K, 35 BB); RP Ryan Burr (12 SV, 3-3, 3.27 ERA, 30 APP, 56 K, 38 BB); RP Jordan Aboite (1 SV, 5-3, 3.30 ERA, 30 APP, 45 K, 14 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: LHP Tucker Baca (North Gwinnett HS, GA); INF Ryan Lillard (Urbandale HS, IA); P/OF Andrew Shaps (Chaparral HS, AZ); RHP Ryan Hingst (Franklin HS, TX); LHP Eli Lingo (Great Oak HS, CA); INF Ryan Peep (Hamilton HS, AZ); OF Coltin Gerhart (Vista Murrieta HS, CA).

Page 15

DC Arendas (.271, 4 HR, 6 2B, 29 RBI, 1 SB); OF Gene Cone (.221, 3 2B, 18 RBI, 4 SB); RHP Wil Crowe (8-3, 2.75 ERA, 91.2 IP, 59 K, 19 BB); LHP Jack Wynkoop (7-6, 2.86 ERA, 88 IP, 58 K, 10 BB); LHP Josh Reagan (3-0, 0.36 ERA, 25.1 IP, 21 K, 4 BB); RP Taylor Widener (3-0, 1.79 ERA, 21 APP, 38 K, 15 BB); RHP Cody Mincey (1 SV, 5-0, 1.04 ERA, 29 APP, 44 K, 17 BB).

West); RHP Grahamm West (All-Big West, 5-4, 1.68 ERA, 86 K); RHP Koby Gauna (All- Big West, 5-3, 1.64 ERA, 54 K); C Jared Deacon (Johnny Bench Award Watch List).

TOP NEWCOMERS: LHP Quinn Brodey (Loyola H.S., Los Angeles, CA), 37th round pick by Nationals), C Bryce Carter (Cascia Hall Prep, Tulsa, OK), 40th round pick by Padres), LHP John Henry Styles (Episcopal H.S., Houston, TX, 36th round pick by Nationals), LHP Andrew Summerville (Lakeside H.S., Seattle, WA, 34th round pick by Mariners), RHP Keith Weisenberg (Osceola H.S., Seminole, FL, 30th round pick by Blue Jays), INF Beau Branton (Punahou School, Honolulu, HI), INF Mikey Dickroeger (Menlo H.S., Woodside, CA), RHP Colton Hock (Bloomsburg Area H.S., Bloomsburg, PA), INF Jesse Kuet (Huntington Beach H.S., CA), 1B/OF Matthew Winaker (San Ramon Valley H.S., Danville, CA).

21. SOUTH CAROLINA

COACH: Chad Holbrook (87-38 in 2 years with the Gamecocks) 2014 RECORD 44-18 2014 FINISH: Second at Columbia Regional TOP RETURNEES: 1B Kyle Martin (.336, 5 HR, 11 2B, 38 RBI, 2 SB); OF Connor Bright (.311, 11 2B, 24 RBI, 4 SB); 2B Max Schrock (.299, 5 HR, 5 2B, 20 RBI, 4 SB); SS Marcus Mooney (.274, 10 2B, 22 RBI, 2 SB); 3B

KEY LOSSES: 1B Nathaniel Causey (drafted); SS Drew Stankiewicz (drafted).

2015 OUTLOOK: Arizona State starts a new era under Head Coach Tracy Smith who led Indiana to the 2013 College World Series and led the Hoosiers to a 44-15 record last season. The Sun Devils have one of the most talented pitching staffs in the nation returning with three exceptional pitchers who are expected to be picked in the top three rounds of the June draft in LHP Brett Lilek (79 K in 84 innings last season), LHP Ryan Kellogg (8-3, 3.76, 66 K) and closer Ryan Burr (12 SV, 3.27 ERA, 56 K). “There is definitely some talent here,” said Smith. “Once our players buy into the new philosophies, the sky is the limit. We have a deep pitching staff, but we need to get better defensively.”

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COACH: Jim Toman (264-155-1 in 8 years with the Flames) 2014 FINISH: Fourth at Charlottesville Regional TOP RETURNEES: 1B Alex Close (.323, 9 HR, 14 2B, 46 RBI, 3 SB); SS Dalton Britt (.299, 7 2B, 35 RBI, 6 SB); 3B Dylan Allen (.258, 7 2B, 15 RBI, 1 SB); OF Nick Paxton (redshirt in 2014); OF/RP Ashton Perritt (.279, 2 HR, 12 2B, 24 RBI, 18 SB, 12 SV, 1-2, 1.52 ERA, 21 APP, 28 K, 5 BB); OF Will shepherd (.273, 1 HR, 9 2B, 23 RBI, 5 SB); C Becker Sankey (.221, 2 HR, 9 2B, 26 RBI); RHP Parker Bean (7-3, 2.95 ERA, 73.1 IP, 36 K); LHP Jared Lyons (2-4, 3.29 ERA, 63 IP, 55 K, 17 BB); RP Shawn Clowers (9-0, 0.83 ERA, 23 APP, 48 K, 14 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: P Victor Cole (Tallahassee CC); C Nick Walker (Eastern Oklahoma State); OF Aaron Stroosma (Bellevue CC); INF Derek Continued On Page 16

Collegiate Baseball

Page 16

1B Zarley Zalewski (.351, 2 HR, 16 2B, 42 RBI); C Tommy Monnot (.186, 1 HR, 6 2B, 12 RBI); OF Alex Miklos (.362, 3 HR, 18 2B, 36 RBI, 17 SB); SS Sawyer Polen (.244, 1 HR, 14 2B, 28 RBI, 12 SB); OF Justin Wagler (.234, 3 HR, 9 2B, 28 RBI, 9 SB); C Jeff Revesz (.197, 2 HR, 7 2B, 24 RBI, 2 SB); 3B Curtis Olvey (.248, 1 HR, 5 2B, 14 RBI); LHP Eric Lauer (8-4, 3.26 ERA, 80 IP; 64 K, 36 BB); RHP Nick Jensen-Clagg (5-2, 4.50 ERA, 84 IP, 73 K, 18 BB); RHP Andy Ravel (3-1, 2.78 ERA, 35.2 IP, 31 K, 14 BB); RP John Birkbeck (3-0, 4.12 EA, 14 APP, 13 K, 13 BB); RP Dan Kopcak (1 SV, 4-0, 3.86 ERA, 14 APP, 19 K, 9 BB).

Continued From Page 15 Perry (South Point HS, NC); C Thomas Yoder (Green Hope HS, NC).

KEY LOSSES: 2B Ryan Seiz (All-American, Big South Player of the Year, .351, 12 HR, 16 2B, 43 RBI); C Danny Grauer (All-Big South, .256, 7 HR, 15 2B, 40 RBI); P Trey Lambert (Big South Pitcher of the Year, 11-3, 2.23 ERA, 109 IP, 71 K); P Matt Marsh (2-0, 3 SV, 0.46 ERA, 39 IP, 51 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Flames posted a 41-18 overall record last season and return seven position player starters led by Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American 1B Alex Close (.323, 9 HR, 14 2B, 46 RBI) and four quality pitchers led by pre-season All-American RHP Ashon Perritt (12 SV, 1-2, 1.52 ERA). “Getting Close and Perritt back after the draft is huge,” said Head Coach Jim Toman. “We have experienced players at all positions and five draftable veteran arms. This may be the most experienced team we have had in my eight years here.”

TOP NEWCOMERS:LHP John Schreiber (Mayfield HS, OH); RHP Zach Willeman (Napoleon HS, OH); C Brad Hamilton (Avon Lake HS, OH); INF Dylan Rosa (Providence Catholic, OH); LHP Eli Kraus (Buckeye HS, OH).

KEY LOSSES: INF Cody Koch (All-Region, MAC Tournament MVP); OF TJ Sutton (All-MAC); LHP Brian Clark (All-MAC); RHP Eric Dorsch (MCBWA Stopper of the Year watch list); RHP John Fasola (MAC All-Tournament Team).

24. NORTH CAROLINA

2015 OUTLOOK: The Golden Flashes return eight position player starters and three key pitchers from a team that finished fourth at the Louisville Regional. Two All Mid-American Conference first teamers are back in OF Alex Miklos (.362, 3 HR, 18 2B, 36 RBI, 17 SB) and 1B Zarley Zalewski (.351, 2 HR, 16 2B, 42 RBI). Three superb pitchers return in LHP Eric Lauer (8-4, 3.26 ERA), RHP Nick Jensen-Clagg (5-2, 4.50 ERA) and RHP Andy Ravel (3-1, 2.78 ERA).

COACH: Mike Fox (729-301-1 with the Tar Heels; 1,268-442-5 overall) 2014 RECORD 35-27 2014 FINISH: Third at Gainesville Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Korey Dunbar (.238, 3 HR, 7 2B, 29 RBI, 4 SB); 1B Joe Dudek (.204, 4 HR, 3 2B, 17 RBI); SS Wood Myers (.298, 1 HR, 10 2B, 29 RBI, 6 SB); 3B Landon Lassiter (.305, 1 HR, 7 2B, 21 RBI, 3 SB); OF Tyler Ramirez (.286, 2 HR, 11 2B, 30 RBI, 11 SB); OF Skye Bolt (.257, 4 HR, 9 2B, 32 RBI, 11 SB); RHP Trent Thornton (7-4, 2.73 ERA, 95.2 IP, 83 K, 29 BB); RHP Benton Moss (4-2, 3.62 ERA, 97 IP, 77 K, 35 BB); RHP Zac Gallen (5-4, 4.64 ERA, 85.1 IP, 62 K, 23 BB); RP Reilly Hovis (6 SV, 9-1, 2.25 ERA, 34 APP, 81 K, 24 BB); RHP Chris McCue (7 SV, 0.77 ERA, 7 APP, 14 K, 9 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP JB Bukauskas (Stone Bridge HS, VA); LHP Hunter Williams (Cosby HS, VA); INF Ryder Ryan (North Mecklenburg HS, NC); INF Zack Gahagan (North Mecklenburg HS, NC); RHP Hansen Butler (High Point Christian HS, NC); INF/OF Logan Warmoth (Lake Brantley HS, FL).

KEY LOSSES: SS Michael Russell (.339, 20 2B, 4 HR, 32 RBI, 13 SB, All-ACC); DH Tom Zengel (.277, 4 HR, 12 2B, 33 RBI, All-ACC); OF Parks Jordan (.265, 9 2B, 29 RBI, 5 SB).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Tar Heels return six position player starters led by CF Skye Bolt who is an exceptional fielder with speed and a deep and pitching staff led by Louisville Slugger pre-season All-Americans RHP Trent Thornton (7-4, 2.73 ERA, 83 K) and closer Reilly Hovis (9-1, 6 SV, 2.25 ERA). Another quality pitcher is RHP Chris McCue (7 SV, 0.77 ERA, returning from surgery to repair a blood clot). “We have plenty of pitching depth to go with athletic position players and a nice blend of returners and newcomers,” said Head Coach Mike Fox.

25. COLL. OF CHARLESTON COACH: Monte Lee (231-130 in 6 years with the Cougars) 2014 RECORD 44-19 2014 FINISH: Second at Lubbock Super Regional TOP RETURNEES: 1B Nick Pappas (.269, 5 HR, 12 2B, 26 RBI, 3 SB); 3B Carl Wise (.295, 3 HR, 11 2B, 54 RBI, 2 SB); 2B Blake Butler (.282, 3 HR, 11 2B, 24 RBI, 7 SB); OF Morgan Phillips (.247, 2 HR, 14 2B, 25 RBI, 4 SB); SS Champ Rowland (.228, 5 2B, 9 RBI, 6 SB); OF Brandon Glazer (.221, 5 HR, 4 2B, 30 RBI, 7 SB); RHP Bailey Ober (10-3, 1.52 ERA, 106.2 IP, 85 K, 19 BB); RHP Taylor Clarke (10-4, 2.51 ERA, 104 IP, 92 K, 31 BB); RHP Tyler Thornton (7-5, 3.03 ERA, 98 IP, 71 K, 17 BB); RP Nathan Helvey (3-4, 3.78 ERA, 21 APP, 54 K, 19 BB); RP Chase Henry (2 SV, 2-0, 2.27 ERA, 38 APP, 51 K, 13 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Ryan Brown (Lexington HS, SC); INF Tommy Richter (Conestoga HS, PA); RHP Sam Linn (Hendersonville HS, NC); LHP Wade Arduini (USC Lancaster); C Mike D’Acunt (Temple Univ).

KEY LOSSES: C Ryan Welke (.238, 17 RBI, 4 HR); 2B Gunnar Heidt (.327, 30 RBI); P Michael Hanzlik (Led the CAA with 16 saves).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Cougars were only two wins from qualifying for the College World Series last season as College of Charleston finished second at the Lubbock Super Regional and finished with an overall record of 44-19.

Eight position player starters are back along with nine key pitchers, including two exceptional pitchers. Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American RHP Bailey Ober (10-3, 1.52 ERA, 85 K, 19 BB) returns along with RHP Taylor Clarke (10-4, 2.51 ERA, 92 K). One position player to watch is 3B Carl Wise (.295, 3 HR, 11 2B, 54 RBI). “We return almost all of our pitching plus a lot of our offense from last year’s Super Regional team,” said Head Coach Monte Lee. “With all the returning experience and incoming talent, we are working toward another deep run into the post-season.”

26. GEORGIA TECH.

COACH: Danny Hall (891-429-1 in 21 years with the Yellow Jackets, 1,099-546-1 overall) 2014 RECORD 37-27 2014 FINISH: Third at Oxford Regional TOP RETURNEES: OF Daniel Spingola (.319. 3 HR, 9 2B, 36 RBI, 15 SB); OF Matt Gonzalez (.314, 1 HR, 21 2B, 37 RBI, 9 SB); 1B Thomas Smith (.301, 2 HR, 10 2B, 36 RBI, 5 SB); OF Ryan Peurifoy (.296, 7 2B, 11 RBI, 2 SB); DH AJ Murray (.283, 4 HR, 16 2B, 33 RBI, 7 SB); SS Connor Justus (.254, 4 HR, 12 2B, 35 RBI, 1 SB); 3B Brandon Gold (.246, 12 2B, 16 RBI); C Arden Pabst (.217, 1 HR, 3 2B, 17 RBI, 1 SB); LHP Devin Stanton (5-3, 2.24 ERA, 76.1 IP, 57 K, 22 BB); LHP Ben Parr (5-4, 2.62 ERA, 65.1 IP, 52 K, 20 BB); LHP Jonathan King (2-0, 1.96 ERA, 18.1 IP, 12 K, 7 BB); RP Zac Ryan (1 SV, 1-2, 4.70 ERA, 16 APP, 29 K, 16 BB); RP Cole Pitts (1-0, 3.18 ERA, 4 APP, 16 K, 9 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 1B Kel Johnson (home schooled, GA); LHP Daniel Gooden (Griffin HS, GA); INF Wade Bailey (Villa Rica HS, GA); 3B Blake Jackson (Houston County HS, GA); RHP Jared Datoc (Pace Academy, GA); C Trevor Craport (Norcross HS, GA); RHP Patrick Wiseman (Pope HS, GA).

KEY LOSSES: 2B Mott Hyde (.282, 4 HR, 35 RBI, 10 SB); RP Dusty Isaacs (7 SV, 8-5, 1.92 ERA, 29 APP, 53 K); RP Sam Clay (8 SV, 4-1, 1.26 ERA, 31 APP, 64 K); SP Josh Heddinger (4-5, 3.94 ERA, 64 K); SP Matthew Grimes (5-3, 4.39 ERA, 36 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Yellow Jackets finished fifth in the ACC Coastal Division but turned it on at the ACC tournament to win their ninth ACC title.

Eight position player starters return led by LF Matt Gonzalez (.314, 21 2B, 37 RBI). “There is a great deal of experience returning in the field, so this team should be good offensively and solid defensively especially with the freshmen additions,” said Head Coach Danny Hall. “The question mark is on the mound where it will be important for Jonathan King and Cole Pitts to come back from 2014 injuries.”

27. KENNESAW ST.

COACH: Mike Sansing (877-455 in 23 years with the Owls) 2014 RECORD 40-24 2014 FINISH: Second at Louisville Super Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Brennan Morgan (.281, 4 HR, 6 2B, 41 RBI, 2 SB); 1B Chris McGowan (.272, 4 HR, 8 2B, 46 RBI, 2 SB); 2B Cornell Nixon (.228, 3 2B, 15 RBI, 4 SB); SS Kal Simmons (.272, 1 HR, 6 2B, 26 RBI, 3 SB); 3B Jeremy Howell (.164, 8 RBI); OF Jacob Bruce (.281, 1 HR, 12

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

31. BALL ST.

COACH: Rich Maloney (326-186-1 in 9 years with the Cardinals, 667430-1 overall) 2014 RECORD 39-18 2014 FINISH: First place in Mid-American Conference

RHP ZACH PLESAC

…12-2, 6 SV, 2.11 ERA, 67 Ks for Ball State 2B, 28 RBI, 6 SB); OF Alex Liquori (.354, 1 HR, 13 2B, 42 RBI, 4 SB); LHP Travis Bergen (9-5, 2.89 ERA, 99.2 IP, 78 K, 15 BB); RHP Jordan Hillyer (7-3, 3.48 ERA, 101 IP, 75 K, 41 BB); LHP Gabe Friese (2-2, 3.19 ERA, 73.1 IP, 41 K, 15 BB); RP Will Solomon (1-0, 4.31 ERA, 19 APP, 25 K, 10 BB); RP Kendall Hawkins (1-1, 2.70 ERA, 6 APP, 8 K, 8 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: C Griffin Helms (Norcross HS, GA); P AJ Moore (Mountain View HS, GA); P Tony Dibrell (Chattahoochee HS, GA); OF Will Campbell (Etowah HS, GA); INF Corey Greeson (Walters State CC).

KEY LOSSES: C Max Pentecost (Johnny Bench Award winner); RP James Connell (2 SV, 37 APP); OF Bo Way (.353, 11 SB, tremendous OF).

TOP RETURNEES: C Jarrett Rindfleisch (352, 4 HR, 9 2B, 33 RBI); 1B Caleb Stayton (.285, 5 HR, 7 2B, 31 RBI); 2B Ryan Spaulding (.292, 6 HR, 13 2B, 40 RBI, 2 SB); SS Alex Maloney (.250, 4 HR, 6 2B, 33 RBI, 6 SB); 3B Sean Kennedy (.315, 5 2B, 17 RBI, 3 SB); OF Alex Call (.354, 1 HR, 15 2B, 24 RBI, 2 SB); DH Brandon Estep (.259, 5 HR, 6 2B, 18 RBI, 3 SB); RHP Zach Plesac (12-2, 2.11 ERA, 85.1 IP, 67 K, 33 BB, 6 SV); RHP Scott Baker (7-5, 4.04 ERA, 89 IP, 61 K, 18 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Scott Tyler (Baron CC); RHP Brandon Burns (Hamilton Southeastern HS, IN); RHP Colin Brockhouse (Northrop HS, IN); LHP Trevor Simon (Loveland HS, OH); LHP Trevor Henderson (South HS, IL); LHP Matt Haro (Glendale CC).

KEY LOSSES: OF Sean Godfrey (All-American, MAC MVP); RHP TJ Weir (All-MAC); LHP Nestor Bautista.

2015 OUTLOOK: The Owls were only two wins from the College World Series last season as Kennesaw St. finished second at the Louisville Super Regional. Seven position player starters are back along with nine pitchers, including LHP Travis Bergen (9-5, 2.89 ERA, 78 K) and RHP Jordan Hillyer (7-3, 3.48 ERA). “We have an experienced group of returners from last year’s squad joined by a very talented freshmen class,” said Head Coach Mike Sansing. “We should have strong hitting and starting pitching.” One big loss was All-American C Max Pentecost (.422, 9 HR, 24 2B, 61 RBI, 17 SB, won Johnny Bench Award).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Cardinals will be loaded in 2015 with the return of seven position player starters and two outstanding pitchers in Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American RHP Zach Plesac (12-2, 6 SV, 2.11 ERA, 67 K) and RHP Scott Baker (7-5, 4.04 ERA). Three superb position player starters back in C Jarrett Rindfleisch (.352, 4 HR, 9 2B, 33 RBI), 2B Ryan Spaulding (.292, 6 HR, 13 2B, 40 RBI) and RF Alex Call (.354, 15 2B, 24 RBI). “We have an outstanding lineup 1-9 with championship experience,” said Head Coach Rich Maloney. “We have three returning freshmen AllAmericans in Call, Rindfleisch and Plesac. We also have a good balance of power and speed and return Baker and Plesac on the mount who have 31 wins in the last two seasons.”

28. CLEMSON

32. WICHITA ST.

COACH: Jack Leggett (923-451-1 with the Tigers, 1,300-741-1 overall) 2014 RECORD 36-25 2014 FINISH: Fourth at Nashville Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Chrs Okey (.248, 4 HR, 9 2B, 41 RBI, 3 SB); 3B Weston Wilson (.240, 2 HR, 5 2B, 23 RBI, 3 SB); OF Tyler Slaton (.274, 3 HR, 9 2B, 25 RBI, 11 SB); OF Steven Duggar (.294, 1 HR, 11 2B, 36 RBI, 25 SB); DH Tyler Krieger (.338, 2 HR, 18 2B, 32 RBI, 19 SB); LHP Matthew Crownover (8-6, 2.90 ERA, 99.1 IP, 90 K, 20 BB); LHP Zack Erwin (4-3, 4.21 ERA, 77.2 IP, 62 K, 28 BB, 2 SV); RHP Clate Schmidt (5-7, 3.68 ERA, 66 IP, 53K, 28 BB); RP Patrick Andrews (0-0, 7.26 ERA, 6 APP, 4 K, 2 BB); RP Clay Bates (1 SV, 0-1, 4.11 ERA, 27 APP, 26 K, 18 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Drew Wharton (Peachtree Ridge HS, GA); INF Chase Pinder (Poquoson HS, VA); LHP Charlie Barnes (Sumter HS, SC); LHP Pat Krall (Temple Univ); LHP Hunter Van Horn (Tampa Jesuit HS, FL).

KEY LOSSES: 2B Steve Wilkerson (.317, 6 HR, 18 2B, 42 RBI, 8 SB); LF Garrett Boulware (.302, 4 HR, 16 2B, 35 RBI); SS Jay Baum .293, 16 2B, 29 RBI, 8 SB); P Daniel Gossett (7-2, 1.93 ERA, 107.1 IP, 107 K, 30 BB); P Matt Campbell 8 SV, 4-0, 0.84 ERA, 45 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Tigers return five position player starters and four key pitchers from a team that finished fourth at the Nashville Regional.

Four players to watch include Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American RF Steven Duggar (.294, 11 2B, 36 RBI, 25/28 SB), DH Tyler Krieger (.338, 18 2B, 32 RBI, 19/24 SB), C Chris Okey (.248, 4 HR, 9 2B, 41 RBI, played for Team USA last summer), and LHP Matthew Crownover (8-6, 2.90 ERA, 90 K, 20 BB). “We have lots of depth and added lefthanded pitching,” said Head Coach Jack Leggett. “We should have a very fast team which has a good core of leaders.”

29. ST. JOHN’S

COACH: Ed Blankmeyer (647-405-3 with the Red Storm) 2014 RECORD 35-20 2014 FINISH: Second in Big East Conference TOP RETURNEES: OF Michael Donadio (.328, 5 HR, 7 2B, 45 RBI, 7 SB); OF Zach Lauricella (.296, 4 HR, 14 2B, 39 RBI, 7 SB); 1B Matt Harris (.290, 6 HR, 9 2B, 47 RBI, 5 SB); SS Jarred Mederos (.362, 2 HR, 8 2B, 34 RBI, 2 SB); SS Bret Dennis (.346, 2 HR, 5 2B, 23 RBI, 2 SB); 3B Robbie Knights (.399, 6 2B, 26 RBI, 2 SB); OF Alex Caruso (.326, 5 2B, 14 RBI, 7 SB); DH Troy Dixon (.284, 5 2B, 16 RBI); C Tyler Sanchez (.246, 1 HR, 9 2B, 18 RBI); RHP Ryan McCormick (7-2, 4.28 ERA, 69.1 IP, 59 K, 25 BB); RHP Chris Kalica (6-3, 3.94 ERA, 59.1 IP, 37 K, 18 BB); RP Joe Kuzia (13 SV, 0-2, 0.97 ERA, 28 APP, 29 K, 9 BB); RP Thomas Hackimer (5 SV, 3-0, 4.26 ERA, 30 APP, 35 K, 11 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Cody Stashak (Cumberland County CC); INF Jesse Berardi (Commack HS, NY); OF Anthony Brocato (Rutgers Prep, NJ); LHP Kevin Magee (Pompton Lakes HS, NJ).

KEY LOSSES: P James Lomangino (All-Big East, 6-5, 3.65 ERA, 85 K, 91.1 IP).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Red Storm finished second in the Big East Conference last season and returns nine position player starters led by OF Michael Donadio (.328, 5 HR, 7 2B, 47 RBI) and four superb pitchers led by closer Joe Kuzia (13 SV, 0.97 ERA) and RHP Ryan McCormick (72, 4.28 ERA, 59 K). “We will have a veteran ball club with a solid lineup,” said Head Coach Ed Blankmeyer. “The strength of the squad will be our position player depth.”

30. KENT ST.

COACH: Jeff Duncan (36-23 in 1 year with the Golden Flashes) 2014 RECORD 36-23 2014 FINISH: Fourth at Louisville Regional TOP RETURNEES: 2B Zach Beckner (.252, 1 HR, 5 2B, 21 RBI, 3 SB);

COACH: Todd Butler (31-28 in first year with the Shockers, 121-111 overall) 2014 RECORD 31-28 2014 FINISH: Fourth in Missouri Valley Conference TOP RETURNEES: OF Daniel Kihle (.313, 3 HR, 12 2B, 22 RBI, 10 SB); SS Tanner Kirk (.243, 4 2B, 10 RBI, 4 SB); DH Tanner Dearman (.232, 1 HR, 5 2B, 13 RBI, 20 SB); RHP Sam Tewes (8-3, 3.27 ERA, 82.2 IP, 50 K, 30 BB); RP Ray Ashford (1 SV, 2-3, 4.26 ERA, 23 APP, 32 K, 12 BB); RP Reagan Biechler (0-1, 2.11 ERA, 12 APP, 8 K, 7 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 3B Chase Rader (Coffeyville CC); LHP/1B Sam Hilliard (Crowder College); RHP Isaac Anderson (College of Southern Idaho); RHP Willie Schwanke (Grayson College); RHP Chase Williams (Eastern Oklahoma State); OF Keenan Eaton (Chaparral HS, CO); C Taylor Sanagorski (Bishop Carroll HS, KS).

KEY LOSSES: 1B Casey Gillaspie (.389, 15 HR, 50 RBI, All American); INF Dayne Parker (.300, 5 HR, 30 RBI, All Conference); RHP AJ Ladwig (3-6, 1.54 ERA, 105 IP, 73 K, All Conference); RHP Cale Elam (7-2, 2.22 ERA, 89 IP, 71 K, All Conference); C Tyler Baker (.230, 3 HR, 18 RBI, All Conference).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Shockers had a tough year in 2014 with a fourth place finish in the Missouri Valley Conference and 31-28 overall record.

Last fall, Wichita St. landed the No. 2 recruiting class in the nation which featured six draft picks. Five of the six were from junior colleges as the Shockers unquestionably landed the top JC class in the nation. “Six of our junior college recruits were ranked in the top 100 junior college prospects and two were named Junior College All-Americans,” said Shocker Head Coach Todd Butler. The 24-man class includes 14 freshmen and 10 junior college transfers. “We will be a physical team on the mound and in the field.

Pitching strength has improved, and we are deeper in the bullpen. We now have athletic position players with speed and power.”

33. TENNESSEE

COACH: Dave Serrano (77-84 in 3 years with the Volunteers, 366-223-1 overall) 2014 RECORD 31-23 2014 FINISH: Fifth Place in Eastern Division of SEC TOP RETURNEES: OF Christin Stewart (.330, 5 HR, 19 2B, 39 RBI, 7 SB); 2B Nick Senzel (.315, 1 HR, 12 2B, 39 RBI, 14 SB); SS AJ Simcox (.270, 1 2B, 13 RBI, 13 SB); OF Vincent Jackson (.234, 2 HR, 6 2B, 27 RBI, 7 SB); 1B Nathaniel Maggio (.239, 4 2B, 18 RBI, 4 SB); C Tayler Schultz (.254, 8 RBI); LHP Andy Cox (5-1, 2.44 ERA, 77.1 IP, 70 K, 33 BB, 2 SV); RHP Hunter Martin (4-4, 3.25 ERA, 63.2 IP, 43 K, 25 BB); RP Kyle Serrano (1 SV, 3-3, 4.55 ERA, 19 APP, 40 K, 41 BB); RP Drake Owenby (5 SV, 2-3, 3.20 ERA, 21 APP, 24 K, 20 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: LHP Zach Warren (St. Augustine Prep, NJ); RHP Steven Kane (Cypress College); C Benito Santiago (Coral Springs Christian Academy, FL); OF Chris Hall (Cumberland Univ); INF Brett Langhorne (Lee Davis HS, VA); OF Brodie Leftridge (St. Johns Catholic Prep, MD); C Dominick Cammarata (TC Roberson HS, NC).

KEY LOSSES: 2B Will Maddox (.297, 58 H, 24 SB); RHP Nick Williams (5-5, 3.22 ERA, 89.1 IP, 65 K); 3B Taylor Smart (.292, 4 HR, 29 RBI); OF Scott Price (.285, 13 2B, 3 HR, 29 RBI).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Volunteers return six position player starters led by Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American LF Christin Stewart (.330, 5 HR, 19 2B, 39 RBI) who has a great chance of being a first round draft pick next June. One of the top lefthanded hitters in the nation, Stewart is coming off a monster summer with Team USA. He not only led the squad with a .383 batting average (nearly 100 points higher than the second highest average), but he belted 12 doubles and 16 RBI, both team highs. “We believe for the first time in a while, we have a roster that can compete at a high level in the SEC,” said Head Coach Dave Serrano. “We return many guys at key positions throughout the lineup.” Other key returners include SS A.J. Simcox Continued On Page 18

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Video, Book Reviews

Page 17

Catching, Pitching DVDs, Terrific Book By Jim Darby Now Available

By LOU PAVLOVICH, JR. Editor/Collegiate Baseball

TUCSON, Ariz. — Several new videos and a terrific book are now available.

Here is a review of each.

Video: The Ultimate Catcher’s Pre-Game Drill Series Featured Speaker: Jerry Weinstein Run Time: 17 minutes Cost: $40 for DVD, $30 for download price and $45 for combo DVD+download. Postage and handling charges will also be added if mailed.

How To Obtain: Go to www. coacheschoice.com or call (888) 229-5745 Review: Jerry Weinstein has worked a lifetime to become the leading authority in the world on catching. The ABCA Hall of Fame coach who was the skipper at Sacramento City College for many years and now works with the Colorado Rockies’ organization, has just come out with a superb video called The Ultimate Catcher’s Pre-Game Drill Series.

It discusses how to conduct a walk-through of every possible scenario a catcher is likely to be asked to perform during a game.

This approximately 5-minute routine addresses several factors, including receiving, transfers and footwork to first base, pitchouts, modified pitchouts and intentional walks, force plays, blocking and bunted balls.

Each aspect of the routine is explained and demonstrated in an

Two great videos by Jerry Weinstein have been produced. easy to understand fashion.

It is a superb video which will allow catchers to improve.

• • • Video: Pitching To Win With Your Fastball Featured Speaker: Jerry Weinstein Run Time: 83 minutes

Cost: $40 for DVD, $30 for download price and $45 for combo DVD+download. Postage and handling charges will also be added if mailed.

How To Obtain: Go to www. coacheschoice.com or call (888) 229-5745 Review: Pitching To Win

With Your Fastball provides a comprehensive overview of the factors that should be considered if a pitcher wants to use his fastball to help him become successful.

The DVD points out that every type of pitch is thrown with fastball arm speed and fastball mechanics.

In other words, ideally, almost every pitch should come out of a pitcher’s grip (depth, firmness, softness) the same.

In reality, the part of the ball thrown changes the pitch and/or the speed of the pitch.

In addition, the DVD reviews several key aspects involved in throwing a fastball, including types of fastballs, location, strategy, pitching combinations and situational usage.

Among the topics in the 83minute video are:  Types of fastballs - location/ speed/movement.  Effective Velocity Zone.  Location hierarchy for developing the fastball.  Fastball strategy.  Top five fastball hitters in baseball.  Fastball strategy.  Top five fastball hitters in baseball by slugging percentage.  Pitching combinations.  Situational fastball usage.  Developing fastball command.  Working on pitching in.  Basic pitching plan.

The video is outstanding and should be must viewing by all pitching coaches and pitchers.

• • •

Book: Right Off The Bat Author: Jim Darby Pages: 297 Cost: Not available at press time How To Obtain: E-Mail Jim Darby at: james.darby@easton. com Review: Jim Darby, who has served as Vice-President of promotions and marketing for Easton and Mizuno gear over the past 37 years, is one of the treasures of the sporting goods industry.

He has worked with hundreds of top athletes over his career, including over 20 Hall of Famers from the National Hockey League, NFL and Major League Baseball.

Plus, he has been heavily involved in college and high school baseball since Easton began producing its famous non-wood bats Over the years, Darby has written down many stories and experiences that have now been collected in a must read book.

Of particular interest to baseball people is his chapter about how non-wood bats became the staple of amateur baseball and his marketing tactics to get teams and players to use Easton bats.

Another remarkable chapter, which many in baseball have never heard, is how the bat market changed forever.

From 1979-1992, Easton controlled the adult bat business in the USA. But in May of 1992, Louisville Slugger changed the bat landscape See NEW BOOK, Page 18

Collegiate Baseball

Page 18

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Continued From Page 16

OF Ryan Boldt (.311, 2 HR, 12 2B, 31 RBI, 7 SB); OF Austin Darby (.290, 3 HR, 10 2B, 36 RBI, 5 SB); RHP Chance Sinclair (9-1, 2.15 ERA, 100.2 IP, 52 K, 26 BB); LHP Kyle Kubat (5-2, 4.55 ERA, 57.1 IP, 34 K, 22 BB); RP Josh Roeder (12 SV, 3-1, 3.10 ERA, 22 APP, 21 K, 6 BB); RP Colton Howell (1-0, 4.12 ERA, 11APP, 18 K, 10 BB).

(great defense) and LHP Andy Cox (5-1, 2 SV, 2.44 ERA, 70 K).

34. SAN DIEGO

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Elijah Dilday (Francis Howell HS, MO); RHP Garrett King (Orange Lutheran HS, CA); INF Jake Schleppenbach (Hutchinson CC); OF Luis Alvarado (Puerto Rico Baseball Academy); INF Scott Schreiber (Kimberly HS, WI); RHP Reece Eddins (Blue Springs South HS, MO); RHP Zack Engelken (Blue Valley West HS, KS).

COACH: Rich Hill (552-376-3 in 16 years with the Toreros, 875-595-3 overall) 2014 RECORD 34-20 2014 FINISH: Tied for fourth place in West Coast Conference

KEY LOSSES: 2B Pat Kelly (1st Team All-Big Ten, 76 H, 55 RBI, 4 HR); LHP Aaron Bummer (11-6, 3.06 ERA); OF Michael Pritchard (All-Big Ten, 251 career hits); LHP Zach Hirsch (All-Big Ten, 1.72 ERA, 31 APP); RHP Christian DeLeon (All-Big Ten, 5-2, 2.46 ERA, 80.1 IP).

TOP RETURNEES: SS Kyle Holder (.298, 3 HR, 7 2B, 29 RBI, 7 SB); OF Austin Bailey (.328, 11 2B, 32 RBI, 3 SB); C Jesse Jenner (.348, 3 HR, 7 2B, 35 RBI, 4 SB); LHP PJ Conlon (7-2, 4.35 ERA, 78.2 IP, 60 K, 17 BB, 1 SV); RP Seve Romo (0-0, 2.30 ERA, 10 APP, 12 K, 10 BB); RP CJ Burdick (2 SV, 2-2, 2.58 ERA, 21 APP, 28 K, 22 BB).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Cornhuskers rolled to a 41-21 overall record last season and finished third at the Stillwater Regional. Six position player starters are back and 11 pitchers including Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American RHP Chance Sinclair (9-1, 2.15 ERA, 52 K) and a top-notch closer in Josh Roeder (12 SV, 3-1, 3.10 ERA). An exceptional centerfielder is back in Ryan Boldt (.311, 12 2B, 31 RBI as a freshman) who is a 5-tool player. “It is the best depth we’ve had in my four years here,” said Head Coach Darin Erstad. “We gained valuable experience in the regionals last year. I am also excited about our newcomers.”

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP David Hill (Orange Coast College); LHP Jacob Hill (Orange Coast College); RHP Gary Cornish (Palomar College) RHP Jonathan Taney (Quartz Hill HS, CA); C Riley Adams (Canyon Crest Academy, CA); MIF Bryson Brigman (Valley Christian HS, CA).

KEY LOSSES: C Connor Joe (.367, 21 2B, 9 HR, 51 RBI); 3B Andrew Daniel (.369, 20 2B, 5 HR, 43 RBI, 13 SB); RHP Lucas Long (2 SV, 4-3, 2.41 ERA, 71 IP, 62 K); UT Louie Lechich (8-3, 2.51 ERA, 82.1 IP, .342, 46 RBI, 18 2B).

39. U.C. IRVINE

2015 OUTLOOK: The Toreros lost a boat load of players from last year’s team as only four position player starters are back along with one key pitcher in LHP P.J. Conlon (7-2, 4.35 ERA, 60 K, 17 BB). San Diego landed the No. 4 recruiting class in the nation last fall which includes 13 players (six who were drafted). “We have a great mix of arms and middle of the field defenders,” said San Diego recruiting coordinator Tyler Kincaid. “It features a good mix of junior college transfers (5) and high school graduated (7).

For the first time in a number of years, we did not lose any pitching due to players signing after being drafted by an MLB organization.”

35. LOYOLA MARYMOUNT COACH: Jason Gill (166-165 in 6 years with the Lions) 2014 RECORD 32-24 2014 FINISH: Tied for second West Coast Conference TOP RETURNEES: SS David Fletcher (.329, 6 2B, 28 RBI, 17 SB); OF Austin Miller (.374, 10 2B, 18 RBI, 25 SB); 1B Tanner Donnels (.321, 1 HR, 14 2B, 36 RBI, 8 SB); 2B David Edwards (.240, 2 HR, 9 2B, 25 RBI, 12 SB); 3B Ted Boeke (.289, 4 2B, 10 RBI, 2 SB); DH Jimmy Jack (.301, 4 HR, 6 2B, 22 RBI, 1 SB); C Cassidy Brown (.200, 3 2B, 3 RBI, 1 SB); RHP Colin Welmon (10-2, 2.37 ERA, 106.1 IP, 58 K, 19 BB); RHP Trevor Megill (medical redshirt); RHP JD Busfield (1-2, 5.35 ERA, 33.2 IP, 24 K, 7 BB); RP Sean Buckle (2-4, 4.02 ERA, 17 APP, 40 K, 23 BB); RP Brandon Horth (1-3, 4.78 ERA, 25 APP, 23 K, 12 BB).

COACH: Mike Gillespie (274-144 in 7 years with the Anteaters; 1,037-620 overall) 2014 RECORD 41-25 2014 FINISH: Sixth at College World Series TOP RETURNEES: C Jerry McClanahan (.304, 1 HR, 5 2B, 36 RBI, 3 SB); 1B Jonathan Munoz (.281, 10 2B, 18 RBI, 1 SB); OF Grant Palmer (.268, 8 2B, 13 RBI, 3 SB); OF Kris Paulino (.216, 5 HR, 8 2B, 25 RBI, 3 SB); LHP Elliot Surrey (8-5, 2.32 ERA, 112.1 IP, 76 K, 29 BB, 1 SV); LHP Evan Manarino (4-4, 2.66 ERA, 64.1 IP, 56 K, 9 BB, 1 SV); RP Sam Moore (23 SV, 0-3, 1.85 ERA, 32 APP, 39 K, 11 BB).

LHP TYLER JAY

…10 SV, 4-1, 1.94 ERA for Illinois Fisher (.268, 16 2B, 9 HR).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Razorbacks posted a 40-25 record and finished second at the Charlottesville Regional last season. Six position player starters are back along with eight pitchers. “We have a very athletic team with good competition at many positions,” said Head Coach Dave Van Horn.

“Our position player depth is better, but we need a couple of young arms to step up and contribute.” Last fall, the Razorbacks landed the 16th best recruiting class in the nation which includes 20 newcomers and features four draft picks.

37. MARYLAND

COACH: John Szefc (70-48 in 2 years with the Terrapins, 282-185-1 overall)

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Tylor Megill (Los Alamitos HS, CA); RP Sean Watkins (Serra HS, CA); OF Marcus Still (Queen Creek HS, AZ); OF Billy Wilson (Tolleson HS, AZ).

2014 RECORD 40-23

KEY LOSSES: RP Bret Dahlson (All time saves leader, 10 SV, 31 APP); RHP Patrick McGrath (6-3, 4.07 ERA, 73 IP, 49 K); C Kevin Garcia (.246, 13 RBI, 9 2B); INF Tommy Cheek (.282, 10 2B, 42 RBI).

TOP RETURNEES: 1B LaMonte Wade (247, 2 HR, 12 2B, 25 RBI, 4 SB); 2B Brandon Lowe (.348, 1 HR, 12 2B, 42 RBI, 8 SB); 2B Jose Cuas (.279, 5 HR, 13 2B, 42 RBI, 3 SB); OF Tim Lewis (.270, 2 2B, 15 RBI, 2 SB); OF Anthony Papio (.271, 2 HR, 9 2B, 29 RBI, 7 SB); C Kevin Martir (.269, 4 HR, 9 2B, 26 RBI, 3 SB); RHP Mike Shawaryn (11-4, 3.12 ERA, 92.1 IP, 72 K, 24 BB); LHP Jake Drossner (4-1, 2.45 ERA, 62.1 IP, 59 K, 23 BB); RP Kevin Mooney (13 SV, 3-2, 4.33 ERA, 26 APP, 45 K, 18 BB); RP Bobby Ruse (1 SV, 7-3, 3.52 ERA, 31 APP, 36 K, 15 BB).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Lions finished second in the West Coast Conference last season and return seven position player starters led by two exceptional players in SS David Fletcher (.329, 6 2B, 27 RBI, 17 SB, superb defense) and OF Austin Miller (West Coast Conference Freshman of The Year, .374, 10 2B, 18 RBI, 25 SB). Loyola Marymount returns four key pitchers including RHP Colin Welmon (10-2, 2.37 ERA) and RHP Trevor Megill (returning after Tommy John surgery). Megill is 6-foot-8 and 245 pounds and could be a first round pick in next June’s draft if he returns to form. “We should have a sound defensive team with team speed throughout the lineup,” said Head Coach Jason Gill. “Our strength is pitching, and questions marks are in the middle of the lineup offensively. We also are trying to find a closer.”

36. ARKANSAS

COACH: Dave Van Horn (484-270 in 12 years with the Razorbacks, 804427 overall) 2014 RECORD 40-25 2014 FINISH: Second at Charlottesville Regional TOP RETURNEES: OF Andrew Benintendi (.276, 8 2B, 27 RBI, 17 SB); OF Joe Serrano (.289, 14 2B, 22 RBI, 29 BB); OF Tyler Spoon (.256, 12 2B, 3 HR, 37 RBI); 3B Bobby Wernes (.217, 18 RBI); SS Michael Bernal (.250, 2 2B, 18 RBI); UT Clark Eagan (.301, 12 RBI, 26 R); RHP Trey Killian (4-9, 2.30 ERA, 94 IP, 62 K, 18 BB); RP Jacob Stone (4 SV, 4-0, 0.94 ERA, 24 APP); RP Zach Jackson (2.53 ERA, 24 APP, 42 K).

2014 FINISH: Second at Charlottesville Super Regional

TOP NEWCOMERS: C Justin Morris (DeMatha Catholic HS, MD); LHP Willie Rios (IMG Academy, FL); INF Andrew Bechtold (Garnett Valley HS, PA); OF Zach Jancarski (Chestnut Hill Academy, PA); RHP Taylor Bloom (Riverdale Baptist HS, MD); INF Kevin Smith (Columbia HS, NY); INF Dominic DiSabatino (St. Mark’s HS, DE).

KEY LOSSES: OF Charlie White (.290, 49 R, 25 SB); RHP Jake Stinnett (.2.67 ERA, 118 IP, 132 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: Maryland came within one win of qualifying for the College World Series last year but finished second to Virginia in the Charlottesville Super Regional. Six position player starters are back and four exceptional pitchers including RHP Mike Shawaryn (11-4, 3.12 ERA, 72 K) and closer Kevin Mooney (13 SV, 3-2, 4.33 ERA). “We have a deep, talented and athletic team,” said Head Coach John Szefc. “We have several promising arms and will look for a few to emerge as potential weekend starters. We also have several talented pitchers as options in the bullpen.” Two exceptional position players back are 2B Brandon Lowe (.348, 12 2B, 42 RBI) and 3B Jose Cuas (.279, 5 HR, 13 2B, 42 RBI).

38. NEBRASKA

TOP NEWCOMERS: P Keaton McKinney (Centennial HS, IA); OF Luke Bonfield (IMG Academy, FL); C Nathan Rodriguez (El Dorado HS, CA); INF Blake Wiggins (Pulaski Academy, AR); INF Max Hogan (Belton HS, TX); INF Rick Nomura (Alvin CC); UT Chad Spanberger (Granite City HS, IL).

COACH: Darin Erstad (105-74 with the Cornhuskers)

KEY LOSSES: 2B Brian Anderson (.328, 7 HR, 14 2B, Golden Spikes watch list); SP Chris Oliver (9-4, 2.51 ERA, 59 K); SP Jalen Beeks (6-4, 1.98 ERA, 68 K); RP Michael Gunn (4-2, 0.74 ERA, 7 SV, 35 K); 1B Eric

TOP RETURNEES: C Tanner Lubach (.282, 3 HR, 10 2B, 27 RBI, 1 SB); 1B Blake Headley (.323, 2 HR, 8 2B, 27 RBI, 2 SB); SS Steven Reveles (.262, 11 2B, 18 RBI, 4 SB); 3B Jake Placzek (.271, 8 2B, 25 RBI, 3 SB);

2014 RECORD 41-21 2014 FINISH: Third at Stillwater Regional

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Matt Esparza (Cypress JC); INF Keston Hiura (Valencia HS, CA); OF Wyatt Castro (San Joaquin Delta JC); LHP Cameron Bishop (Brea Olinda HS, CA); RHP Shaun Vetrovec (Newport Harbor HS, CA); INF Cole Kreuter (Westminster Christian, FL); RHP Matt Majors (Trabuco Hills HS, CA).

KEY LOSSES: INF Taylor Sparks (All-Region, .308, 5 HR, 17 2B, 37 RBI); INF Connor Spencer (All-Region,.364, 15 2B, 44 RBI); INF Chris Rabago (All-Region, .246, 9 2B, 20 RBI); P Andrew Morales (All American, Big West Pitchers of the Year), P Evan Brock (9-6, 3.02 ERA, 107.1 IP, 70 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Anteaters finished with a superb 41-25 overall record last season and posted a 41-25 overall record. Four position player starters are back along with three quality pitchers in Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American closer Sam Moore (23 SV, 1.85 ERA), LHP Elliot Surrey (85, 2.32 ERA, 76 K) and LHP Evan Manarino (4-4, 2.66 ERA, 56 K). “We lost a lot from last year’s team (INF Taylor Sparks, P Andrew Morales, INF Connor Spencer, INF Chris Rabago, P Evan Brock), so we need guys who have been around to step up,” said Head Coach Mike Gillespie. “We also need for some of our new guys to grow up fast and contribute right away for us to be successful.”

40. ILLINOIS

COACH: Dan Hartleb (276-220 in 9 years with the Fighting Illini) 2014 RECORD 32-21 2014 FINISH: Third in Big Ten Conference TOP RETURNEES: C Jason Goldstein (.316, 4 HR, 11 2B, 28 RBI, 2 SB); 1B David Kerian (.280, 2 HR, 12 2B, 33 RBI, 9 SB); 2B Reid Roper (.250, 5 HR, 6 2B, 33 RBI, 2 SB); SS Adam Walton (.329, 1 HR, 5 2B, 19 RBI, 13 SB); 3B Ryne Roper (.246, 1 HR, 2 2B, 17 RBI, 2 SB); OF Ryan Nagel (.295, 9 2B, 23 RBI, 8 SB); OF Will Krug (.307, 1 HR, 10 2B, 24 RBI, 20 SB); OF Casey Fletcher (.308, 6 HR, 6 2B, 27 RBI, 2 SB); DH Michael Hurwitz (.198, 5 2B, 13 RBI, 5 SB); LHP Kevin Duchene (4-1, 1.80 ERA, 55 IP, 35 K, 11 BB); RHP Drasen Johnson (5-7, 2.91 ERA, 96 IP, 79 K, 20 BB); RHP John Kravetz (6-1, 3.00 ERA, 78 IP, 42 K, 15 BB); RP Tyler Jay (10 SV, 4-1, 1.94 ERA, 23 APP, 47 K); RP Nick Blackburn (1-1, 3.18 ERA, 18 APP, 15 K).

TOP NEWCOMERS: INF Quentin Sefcik (Carmel Catholic HS, IL); INF Ryan Haff (Hinsdale Central HS, IL); C/OF Mark Skonieczny (Huntley HS, IL); RHP Matt Schultz (Wabash Valley CC).

KEY LOSSES: RP Ronnie Muck (3.38 ERA, 3 SV).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Fighting Illini finished third in the Big Ten last season and return nine position player starters and five quality pitchers, including Louisville Slugger pre-season All-American closer Tyler Jay (10 SV, 4-1, 1.94 ERA, 47 K). He pitched for Team USA last summer and is a potential first round draft pick next June with a 97 mph fastball. Other quality pitchers back include LHP Kevin Duchene (4-1, 1.80 ERA), RHP Drasen Johnson (5-7, 2.91 ERA) and RHP John Kravetz (6-1, 3.00 ERA).

“We have an experienced squad with depth on the mound,” said Head Coach Dan Hartleb. “We have high expectations for this club, and we are excited about the potential.”

New Book By Jim Darby Chronicles His Wild Adventures In Marketing Continued From Page 17

forever by offering the University of Texas $20,000 to use their bat and supply other equipment.

Dozens of other high profile college baseball teams were also being offered such contracts by Louisville Slugger in an amazing strike to take away Easton’s share of the market.

Easton countered with an “emergency” fund to protect its adult bat line as they obtained commitments from elite NCAA Division I programs.

From that moment, bat companies have signed contracts with elite college baseball programs to use their products exclusively.

Darby also delved into the politics of wood and non-wood bats which became an all-out war between bat manufacturers and non-wood bat advocates for a number of years.

In 2001, James Oddo of the

JIM DARBY New York City Council posted a bill that proposed banning the use of metal bats for all play within the city limits of New York City.

Darby explains what transpired after that.

At the core of the debate was the safety of non-wood bats and the danger pitchers had reacting to balls hit off these bats.

One of my favorite stories of the book centered around Darby going to his first trade show at the National Sporting Goods Association Show (Anaheim Convention Center) in 1978.

Darby was in charge of driving the Mizuno Baseball Workshop RV into the convention center so that Tak Yano, a glove craftsman from Japan, could demonstrate how pro gloves are constructed.

After carefully measuring the door opening of the entrance and height of the RV, he carefully drove the vehicle into the exhibit hall.

As the RV was moving into the hall, he heard a loud thump, followed by a resounding crash.

Darby had correctly calculated the height of the opening and height of the vehicle. But he didn’t factor in the air conditioning unit on the roof of the vehicle which was all but destroyed.

The best human interest story in the book involved a goodwill tour

to Cuba in 2003 by Chris Bradford, baseball coach at St. Francis H.S. (Mountain View, Calif.) and a group of boys as Darby served as a chaperone.

It was a typical baseball tour with everything arranged and itinerary set.

On the fourth day in Cuba, the entire party of kids and parents climbed aboard a beautiful, airconditioned Mercedes bus for a 5hour drive to the city of Cienfuegos, situated on the south side of Cuba.

About 40 miles outside Cienfuegos, a baseball game was being played in a cow pasture and Darby yelled for the driver to pull off the road.

It was between two local town teams with the age of players being from 15-50. No two players had the same uniform. There was no backstop, no mound, just a circle where the pitcher was supposed to throw from. Home plate and all of the bases were simply pieces

of cloth.

There was no home run fence… just a barbwire fence in right field that separated two pastures. Both teams shared one set of catcher’s gear which amounted to one mask and a beat up chest protector but no shin guards. Between them, there was one baseball and two old aluminum bats.

On top of it all, there was a horse grazing in right field.

Once the Americans got off the bus, the game stopped. It was agreed that the Americans would play in the game and be divided up between the two teams.

When the game ended, Coach Bradford hopped into the bus and came out with two boxes of brand new baseballs, one for each team.

Many of the Cuban players broke down and cried they were so thankful for the balls.

Right Off The Bat is an amazing book that all baseball people will enjoy reading.

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

How They Rank Across USA

Page 19

NCAA Division I Pre-Season Look At Conference Races, Top Players TUCSON, Ariz. — Here is how coaches voted in a special Collegiate Baseball pre-season poll of conference races in NCAA Division I along with projected conference Players of The Year and Players to Watch.

The conference finish last season is included as well as the 2014 final Rating Percentage Index com-puter ranking by the NCAA. Independent teams were grouped as a conference by the RPI.

America East

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Stony Brook (1) 113 2. Hartford (2) 125 3. Maine (5) 237 4. Binghamton (4) 152 5. Massachusetts-Lowell (3) 218 6. Md.-Baltimore County (T-6) 252 7. Albany (T-6) 274 Projected Pitchers Of Year ♦ LHP Tyler Honahan, Stony Brook (7-2, 2.89 ERA, 55 K, 33 BB) ♦ Relief Cameron Stone, Stony Brook (8 SV, 1.96 ERA, 18 AP, 45 K) Projected Players Of Year ♦ 1B/LHP Scott Heath, Maine (.361, 14 2B, 29 RBI, 3-3, 4.86 ERA) ♦ OF Jake Thomas, Binghamton (.270, 6 HR, 7 2B, 35 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ SS Cole Peragine, Stony Brook (.287, 1 HR, 6 2B, 36 RBI, 8 SB) ♦ 3B Johnny Caputo, Stony Brook (.236, 2 HR, 13 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ OF Jack Parenty, Stony Brook (.277, 6 2B, 22 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ 1B David MacKinnon, Hartford (.366, 11 2B, 19 RBI) ♦ 2B Aaron Wilson, Hartford (.234, 5 2B, 9 RBI, 13 SB) ♦ RHP Kyle Gauthier, Hartford (4-1, 3.02 ERA, 26 K, 8 BB) ♦ RHP Sam McKay, Hartford (6-2, 1.59 ERA, 19 AP) ♦ Relief Jeremy Charles, Hartford (3 SV, 2.18 ERA, 11 AP) ♦ OF Brian Doran, Maine (.314, 15 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ RHP Jeff Gelinas, Maine (3-4, 3.86 ERA, 35 K) ♦ Relief Charlie Butler, Maine (5 SV, 2.54 ERA, 21 AP) ♦ 3B Reed Camache, Binghamton (.283, 8 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ RHP Greg Ostner, Binghamton (3-2, 2.81 ERA, 23 K, 10 BB) ♦ RHP Nick Liegi, Binghamton (2-1, 2.45 ERA, 16 K, 9 BB) ♦ RHP Mike Bunal, Binghamton (2 SV, 1-2, 5.89 ERA) ♦ Relief Mike Urbanski, Binghamton (3-1, 4.40 ERA, 19 K, 9 BB) ♦ SS Keith Lachance, Md.-Balt. County (.256, 8 2B, 13 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ C Hunter Dolshun, Md.-Balt. County (.304, 7 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ 3B Mark Esposito, Md.-Balt. County (.303, 7 2B, 18 RBI) ♦ 2B Vince Corbi, Md.-Balt. County (.230, 10 2B, 19 RBI) ♦ LHP Joe Vanderplas, Md.-Balt. County (1-3, 3.34 ERA, 28 K, 9 BB) ♦ DH Evan Harasta, Albany (.314, 2 HR, 7 2B, 28 RBI) ♦ C Craig Lepre, Albany (.273, 7 2B, 28 RBI) ♦ LHP Brendan Ryan, Albany (3-2, 3.28 ERA, 20 K) ♦ SS Danny Mendick, Mass.-Lowell (.314, 5 HR, 9 2B, 34 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ 3B Matt Sanchez, Mass.-Lowell (.357, 8 2B, 23 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ OF Ian Strom, Mass.-Lowell (.290, 9 2B, 23 RBI) ♦ RHP Christian Lavoie, Mass.-Lowell (1-4, 4.13 ERA, 28 K, 11 BB) ♦ Geoff DeGroot, Mass.-Lowell (Injured last season)

American Athletic

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Houston (T-3) 5 2. Central Florida (2) 50 3. East Carolina (NA) 74 4. Tulane (NA) 146 5. South Florida (5) 142 6. Memphis (8) 115 7. Connecticut (T-6) 132 8. Cincinnati (9) 163 Projected Pitchers Of Year ♦ RHP Zach Rodgers, Central Florida (7-1, 5 SV, 1.36 ERA, 52 K, 14 BB) ♦ RHP Jimmy Herget, South Florida (7-6, 1.26 ERA, 90 K, 27 BB) ♦ RHP Jake Lemoine, Houston (6-8, 2.87 ERA, 87 K, 29 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ SS Tommy Williams, Central Florida (.263, 12 HR, 8 2B, 45 RBI, 16 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ RHP Aaron Garza, Houston (9-5, 2.92 ERA, 57 K, 11 BB) ♦ RHP Andrew Lantrip, Houston (6-0, 1.87 ERA, 33 K, 7 BB) ♦ Relief Jared Robinson, Houston (5-1, 1.35 ERA, 41 K, 16 BB) ♦ RHP Patrick Weigel, Houston (Transfer from Oxnard C.C., 84 K)

RHP JAKE LEMOINE

…6-foot-5, 220-pound Houston pitcher throws 95 mph ♦ C Ian Rice, Houston (Trans. Chipola, .330, 11 HR, 51 RBI) ♦ OF Kyle Survance, Houston (.308, 11 2B, 32 RBI, 31/38 SB) ♦ 2B Dylan Moore, Central Florida (.310, 2 HR, 17 2B, 35 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ 1B James Vasquez, Central Florida (.340, 8 HR, 11 2B, 56 RBI) ♦ OF Erik Barber, Central Florida (.284, 6 HR, 13 2B, 31 RBI) ♦ RHP Mitchell Tripp, Central Florida (92-96 mph FB, back from TJ surgery) ♦ 1B Luke Lowery, East Carolina (.288, 4 HR, 6 2B, 19 RBI) ♦ OF/DH Bryce Harman, East Carolina (.244, 7 HR, 3 2B, 21 RBI) ♦ LHP Reid Love, East Carolina (5-3, 3.02 ERA, 40 K, 20 BB) ♦ RHP Ian Gibaut, Tulane (2-0, 1 SV, 1.46 ERA, 97 mph FB) ♦ RHP Corey Merrill, Tulane (0-5, 3.60 ERA, 33 K) ♦ 3B Hunter Hope, Tulane (.269, 3 HR, 10 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ C Jake Rogers, Tulane (Threw out 23 of 46 runners stealing) ♦ Relief Jordan Strittmatter, South Fla. (4 SV, 1-2, 1.93 ERA, 31 AP) ♦ SS Kyle Teaf, South Florida (.354, 7 2B, 22 RBI, 7 SB) ♦ LHP Caleb Wallingford, Memphis (6-5, 2.44 ERA, 70 K, 24 BB) ♦ LHP Colin Lee, Memphis (2-4, 4.90 ERA, 30 K, 17 BB) ♦ OF Kane Burrow, Memphis (.319, 3 HR, 10 2B, 28 RBI) ♦ OF HJake Little, Memphis (.308, 5 HR, 10 2B, 37 RBI, 15 SB) ♦ 1B Bobby Melley, Connecticut (.359, 4 HR, 16 2B, 47 RBI) ♦ OF Blake Davey, Connecticut (.313, 10 HR, 10 2B, 32 RBI, 8 SB) ♦ OF Jack Sundberg, Connecticut (.270, 3 2B, 16 RBI, 27 SB) ♦ RHP Carson Cross, Connecticut (9-4, 2.44 ERA, 86 K in 2013) ♦ RHP Jordan Tabakman, Connecticut (4-4, 3.40 ERA, 42 K, 26 BB) ♦ OF Ian Happ, Cincinnati (.322, 5 HR, 13 2B, 27 RBI, 19 SB) ♦ OF Ryan Noda, Cincinnati (Grant H.S., IL, All-State) ♦ LHP Dalton Lehnen, Cincinnati (Lakeview North H.S., MN)

Atlantic Coast

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI (Atlantic Division) 1. Florida St. (1) 10 2. Louisville (NA) 18 3. Clemson (T-2) 55 4. N.C. State (5) 59 5. Wake Forest (4) 81 6. Boston College (6) 158 7. Notre Dame (7) 180 (Coastal Division) 1. Virginia (2) 1 2. Miami, Fla. (1) 17 3. North Carolina (4) 45 4. Georgia Tech. (5) 31 5. Duke (3) 84 6. Virginia Tech. (7) 145 7. Pittsburgh (6) 159 Projected Pitchers Of Year ♦ LHP Nathan Kirby, Virginia (9-3, 2.06 ERA, 112 K, 33 BB) ♦ RHP Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville (13-3, 1.94 ERA, 122 K, 65 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ OF D.J. Stewart, Florida St. (.351, 7 HR, 19 2B, 50 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ RHP Josh Sborz, Virginia (6-4, 2.92 ERA, 72 K, 44 BB) ♦ LHP Brandon Waddell, Virginia (10-3, 2.45 ERA, 73 K, 19 BB) ♦ Relief Connor Jones, Virginia (4-1, 1 SV, 3.13 ERA, 40 K, 23 BB) ♦ OF Joe McCarthy, Virginia (.301, 6 HR, 16 2B, 49 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ 3B Kenny Towns, Virginia

(.278, 2 HR, 14 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ SS Daniel Pinero, Virginia (.261, 6 2B, 22 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ RHP Mike Compton, Florida St. (7-3, 3.23 ERA, 50 K, 18 BB) ♦ LHP Bryant Holtmann, Florida St. (5-1, 3.68 ERA, 29 K, 12 BB) ♦ Relief Jameis Winston, Florida St. (7 SV, 1.08 ERA, 31 K, 7 BB) ♦ 1B Chris Marconcini, Florida St. (Transfer Duke, 2nd team ACC) ♦ OF Josh Delph, Florida St. (.268, 14 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ 2B John Sansone, Florida St. (.221, 13 2B, 39 RBI) ♦ RHP Anthony Kidston, Louisville (9-1, 3.40 ERA, 69 K, 36 BB) ♦ 2B Zach Lucas, Louisville (.270, 5 HR, 13 2B, 44 RBI) ♦ SS Sutton Whiting, Louisville (.216, 2 HR, 2 2B, 18 RBI, 37/43 SB) ♦ OF Mike White, Louisville (.235, 2 2B, 3 RBI, 7 SB) ♦ LHP Andrew Suarez, Miami (Fla.) (6-3, 2.96 ERA, 87 K, 15 BB) ♦ Relief Bryan Garcia, Miami (Fla.) (15 SV, 1.75 ERA, 56 K) ♦ C Zack Collins, Miami (Fla.) (.298, 11 HR, 14 2B, 54 RBI) ♦ 1B David Thompson, Miami (Fla.) (.278, 6 2B, 15 RBI) ♦ 3B George Iskenderian, Miami (Fla.) (Trans. Indian River C.C., 34th round) ♦ RHP Trent Thornton, North Carolina (7-4, 2.73 ERA, 83 K, 29 BB) ♦ RHP Benton Moss, North Carolina (4-2, 3.62 ERA, 77 K, 35 BB)

♦ Relief Reilly Hovis, North Carolina (6 SV, 9-1, 2.25 ERA, 81 K, 24 BB) ♦ Relief Chris McCue, North Carolina (7 SV, 0.77 ERA, 14 K, 9 BB) ♦ OF Skye Bolt, North Carolina (.257, 4 HR, 9 2B, 32 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ OF Matt Gonzalez, Georgia Tech. (.314, 21 2B, 37 RBI) ♦ OF Daniel Spingola, Georgia Tech. (.319, 3 HR, 9 2B, 36 RBI, 15 SB) ♦ DH A.J. Murray, Georgia Tech. (.283, 4 HR, 16 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ LHP Jonathan King, Georgia Tech.

(2-0, 1.96 ERA, 12 K, 7 BB) ♦ LHP Devin Stanton, Georgia Tech.

(5-3, 2.24 ERA, 57 K, 22 BB) ♦ LHP Ben Parr, Georgia Tech.

(5-4, 2.62 ERA, 52 K, 20 BB) ♦ LHP Matthew Crownover, Clemson (8-6, 2.90 ERA, 90 K, 20 BB) ♦ C Chris Okey, Clemson (.248, 4 HR, 9 2B, 41 RBI) ♦ OF Steven Duggar, Clemson (.294, 1 HR, 11 2B, 36 RBI, 25 SB) ♦ DH Tyler Krieger, Clemson (.338, 2 HR, 18 2B, 32 RBI, 19 SB) ♦ 2B Logan Ratledge, N.C. State (.274, 5 HR, 6 2B, 30 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ 1B Andrew Knizner, N.C. State (.330, 4 HR, 11 2B, 47 RBI) ♦ LHP Brad Stone, N.C. State (4-2, 1 SV, 3.02 ERA, 34 K) ♦ SS Ryne Willard, N.C. State (Trans. Tallahassee C.C., Fla.) ♦ RHP Aaron Fossas, Wake Forest (5-1, 10 SV, 3.51 ERA, 25 K) ♦ Relief Parker Dunshee, Wake Forest (4-1, 2.17 ERA, 43 K) ♦ RHP Matt Pirro, Wake Forest (2-2, 5.94 ERA, 43 K, 22 BB) ♦ OF Kevin Jordan, Wake Forest (Expecting breakout year) ♦ RHP Michael Matuella, Duke (97 mph FB, 1-3, 2.78 ERA, 69 K) ♦ LHP Trent Swart, Duke (5-2, 1.76 ERA, 54 K, 21 BB) ♦ 2B Andy Perez, Duke (.272, 2 HR, 8 2B, 25 RBI, 22 SB) ♦ RHP Andrew Istler, Duke (8-8, 2.84 ERA, 59 K, 24 BB) ♦ 1B Sean Keselica, Virginia Tech. (.274, 10 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ DH Brendon Hayden, Virginia Tech. (.302, 7 HR, 16 2B, 43 RBI) ♦ LHP Sean Keselica, Virginia Tech.

(3-5, 4.65 ERA, 39 K) ♦ OF Chris Shaw, Boston College (.329, 6 HR, 18 2B, 45 RBI) ♦ SS Joe Cronin, Boston College (.291, 16 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ 2B Blake Butera, Boston College (.269, 10 2B, 16 RBI, 8 SB) ♦ RHP John Gorman, Boston College (3-8, 3.86 ERA, 68 K, 30 BB) ♦ RHP Mike King, Boston College (2-2, 2.93 ERA, 35 K, 12 BB) ♦ OF Boo Vazquez, Pittsburgh (.246, 6 HR, 8 2B, 39 RBI) ♦ RHP T.J. Zeuch, Pittsburgh (2-6, 2.75 ERA, 41 K, 17 BB) ♦ Relief Hobie Harris, Pittsburgh (2 SV, 3-6, 2.70 ERA, 37 K) ♦ 3B Kyle Fiala, Notre Dame (.268, 6 2B, 11 RBI, 5 SB) ♦ 1B Blaise Lezynski, Notre Dame (.296, 12 2B, 32 RBI, 6 SB)

♦ LHP Michael Hearne, Notre Dame (5-6, 2.51 ERA, 48 K, 13 BB) ♦ Relief David Hearne, Notre Dame (Injured last season, low 90s FB)

Atlantic Sun

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Kennesaw St. (3) 52 2. Florida Gulf Coast (1) 77 3. Lipscomb (4) 154 4. Stetson (7) 176 5. Jacksonville (T-5) 165 6. North Florida (8) 183 7. South Carolina Upstate (9) 264 8. Northern Kentucky (10) 263 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Mike Murray, Fla. Gulf Coast (13-1, 1.85 ERA, 679 K, 14 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ 2B Jake Noll, Florida Gulf Coast (.367, 18 2B, 29 RBI, 25 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ SS Kal Simmons, Kennesaw St. (.272, 6 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ C Brennan Morgan, Kennesaw St. (.281, 4 HR, 6 2B, 41 RBI) ♦ 1B Chris McGowan, Kennesaw St. (.272, 4 HR, 8 2B, 46 RBI) ♦ OF Alex Liquori, Kennesaw St. (.354, 1 HR, 13 2B, 42 RBI) ♦ LHP Travis Bergen, Kennesaw St. (9-5, 2.89 ERA, 78 K, 15 BB) ♦ RHP Jordan Hillyer, Kennesaw St. (7-3, 3.48 ERA, 75 K, 41 BB) ♦ 1B Nick Rivera, Florida Gulf Coast (.330, 6 HR, 25 2B, 48 RBI) ♦ OF Colton Bottomley, Fla. Gulf Cost (.328, 6 HR, 11 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ RHP Brady Anderson, Fla. Gulf Coast (5-3, 7 SV, 2.45 ERA, 50 K, 14 BB) ♦ SS Grant Massey, Lipscomb (.322, 3 HR, 19 2B, 24 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ OF Jonathan Allison, Lipscomb (.274, 4 HR, 15 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ RHP Ian Martinez-McGraw, Lipscomb (9-3, 3.77 ERA, 64 K, 42 BB) ♦ LHP Nick Andros, Lipscomb (5-3, 3.28 ERA, 57 K, 18 BB) ♦ C Patrick Mazeika, Stetson (.354, 2 HR, 18 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ RHP/DH Josh Powers, Stetson (.272, 10 2B, 27 RBI, 2-4, 5.46 ERA) ♦ Relief Tyler Warmoth, Stetson (10 SV, 5-3, 2.42ERA, 52K, 11BB) ♦ OF Cory Reid, Stetson (Trans. State Coll. of Florida) ♦ OF Connor Marabell, Jacksonville (.371, 5 HR, 13 2B, 31 RBI, 9 SB) ♦ SS Angelo Amendolare, Jacksonville (.278, 8 2B, 23 RBI, 16 SB) ♦ RHP Justin Russell, Jacksonville (6-3, 4.56 ERA, 39 K, 27 BB) ♦ OF Donnie Dewees, North Florida (Injured last season) ♦ Trent Higginbothem, North Florida (.335, 6 HR, 13 2B, 50 RBI) ♦ DH Corbin Olmstead, North Florida (.358, 10 HR, 13 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ RHP Brad Deppermann, North Fla. (East Lake H.S.) ♦ RHP Tyler Moore, North Florida (0-0, 3.18 ERA, 13 K, Injured) See ST. JOHN’S RANKED, Page 20

Collegiate Baseball

Page 20

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

St. John’s Ranked No. 1 In Big East With Solid Club Continued From Page 19

♦ Relief Matt Naylor, North Florida (Trans. Daytona St. Coll.) ♦ 2B Erik Samples, S.C. Upstate (.294, 2 HR, 17 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ RHP Dylan Parker, S.C. Upstate (2-5, 5.35 ERA, 51 K, 16 BB) ♦ OF Cole Baumi, Northern Kentucky (.337, 7 HR, 18 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ C Logan Spurlin, Northern Kentucky (.350, 4 HR, 16 2B, 32 RBI) Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. St. Louis (1) 151 2. Va. Commonwealth (4) 85 3. George Mason (3) 121 4. St. Joseph’s (2) 94 5. Davidson (NA) 101 6. Richmond (5) 179 7. Dayton (6) 216 8. Fordham (7) 231 9. George Washington (T-8) 268 10. Massachusetts (T-8) 225 11. La Salle (10) 247 12. St. Bonaventure (11) 283 13. Rhode Island (12) 273 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Matt Eckelman, St. Louis (7-2, 9 SV, 1.63 ERA, 35 K, 12 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ 1B Mike Vigliarolo, St. Louis (.328, 7 HR, 18 2B, 37 RBI, 13 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ 3B Braxton Martinez, St. Louis (.291, 5 HR, 10 2B, 31 RBI) ♦ OF Michael Bozarth, St. Louis (.255, 3 HR, 13 2B, 25 RBI, 20 SB) ♦ LHP Josh Moore, St. Louis (3-2, 3.63 ERA, 47 K, 32 BB) ♦ SS Vimael Machin, Va. Common. (.307, 3 HR, 11 2B, 52 RBI) ♦ RHP Matt Blachard, Va. Common.

(4-1, 1.77 ERA, 41 K, 35 BB) ♦ RHP Daniel Concepcion, Va. Comm.

(6-3,. 3.39 ERA, 48 K, 32 BB) ♦ OF James Bunn, Va. Commonwealth (.315, 9 2B, 15 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ OF Luke Willis, George Mason (.302, 2 HR, 12 2B, 34 RBI, 21 SB) ♦ RHP John Williams, George Mason (5-2, 2.82 ERA, 30 K, 19 BB) ♦ LHP Jake Kalish, George Mason (2-1, 2 SV, 3.03 ERA, 37 K, 4 BB) ♦ 3B Stefan Kancylarz, St. Joseph’s (.349, 4 HR, 13 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ OF John Brue, St. Joseph’s (.116, 1 HR, 1 2B, 7 RBI) ♦ RHP Pat Vanderslice, St. Joseph’s (Trans. Temple University) ♦ Relief Ryan Lowe, Davidson (1 SV, 2-1, 3.99 ERA) ♦ RHP Clark Beeker, Davidson (4-2, 5.06 ERA, 30 K, 10 BB) ♦ RHP Nick Neitzel, Davidson (7-2, 3.38 ERA, 57 K, 29 BB) ♦ 1B David Daniels, Davidson (.332, 4 HR, 15 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ OF Tanner Stanley, Richmond (.296, 5 HR, 10 2B, 23 RBI, 7 SB) ♦ RHP Ryan Cook, Richmond (4-2, 5 SV, 4.89 ERA, 54 K, 24 BB) ♦ 1B Doug Kraeger, Richmond (.308, 5 HR, 20 2B, 35 RBI) ♦ OF Michael Morman, Richmond (Trans. Valparaiso, .296, 10 2B) ♦ DH Aaron Huesman, Dayton (.295, 3 HR, 12 2B, 40 RBI) ♦ OF Alex Harris, Dayton (.333, 2 HR, 15 2B, 32 RBI, 15 SB) ♦ INF A.J. Ryan, Dayton (.338, 4 HR, 15 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ RHP Noah Buettgen, Dayton (6-7, 4.37 ERA, 65 K, 24 BB) ♦ 2B Joseph Runco, Fordham (.298, 9 2B, 25 RBI, 23 SB) ♦ C Charles Galiano, Fordham (.280, 4 HR, 11 2B, 28 RBI) ♦ RHP Brett Kenney, Fordham (6-7, 3.36 ERA, 75 K, 24 BB) ♦ OF Ryan Xepoleas, George Wash. (.337, 2 HR, 11 2B, 27 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ OF Joey Bartosic, George Wash. (.298, 1 2B, 12 RBI, 20 SB) ♦ RHP Bobby LeWarne, George Wash.

(2-5, 3.38 ERA, 57 K, 27 BB) ♦ Relief Craig Lejeunue, George Wash.

(10 SV, 3-2, 3.41 ERA in 2013) ♦ 3B Thaddeus Johnson, St. Bonaven. (.290, 1 HR, 8 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ OF Tyler Bell, St. Bonaventure (.288, 1 HR, 9 2B, 23 RBI, 21 SB) ♦ C Dylan Dunn, St. Bonaventure (.278, 4 HR, 7 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ DH/1B Ted Diolts, St. Bonaventure (Trans. El Camino C.C., CA)

Big East

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. St. John’s (2) 107 2. Seton Hall (3) 105 3. Creighton (1) 66 4. Xavier (4) 91 5. Butler (5) 249 6. Georgetown (T-6) 232 7. Villanova (T-6) 257 Projected Pitchers Of Year ♦ RHP Matt Warren, Creighton (10-1, 2.03 ERA, 45 K, 25 BB) ♦ RHP Luke Cahill, Seton Hall (10-2, 2.65 ERA, 58 K, 15 BB) Projected Players Of Year ♦ 1B Reagan Fowler, Creighton (.362, 16 2B, 27 RBI, 9 SB) ♦ SS D.J. Ruhlman, Seton Hall (.351, 3 HR, 11 2B, 28 RBI, 15 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ Relief Joe Kuzia, St. John’s (13 SV, 0.97 ERA, 28 AP, 29 K) ♦ Relief Thomas Hackimer, St. John’s (5 SV, 3-0, 4.26 ERA, 30 AP, 35 K) ♦ RHP Ryan McCormick, St. John’s (7-2, 4.28 ERA, 59 K, 25 BB)

(Photo by Matt Brown

Atlantic 10

RHP THOMAS ESHELMAN

…Cal. St. Fullerton pitcher only walks 8 batters with 99 strikeouts ♦ RHP Chris Kalica, St. John’s (6-3, 3.94 ERA, 37 K, 18 BB) ♦ RHP Cody Stashak, St. John’s (Trans. Cumberland County Coll.) ♦ OF Michael Donadio, St. John’s (.328, 5 HR, 7 2B, 45 RBI, 7 SB) ♦ OF Zach Lauricella, St. John’s (.296, 4 HR, 14 2B, 39 RBI) ♦ C Tyler Sanchez, St. John’s (.246, 1 HR, 9 2B, 18 RBI) ♦ LHP Anthony Pacillo, Seton Hall (4-2, 2.98 ERA, 36 K, 13 BB) ♦ LHP Anthony Elia, Seton Hall (4-3, 2.77 ERA, 48 K, 21 BB) ♦ 1B Sal Annunziata, Seton Hall (.330, 5 HR, 17 2B, 49 RBI) ♦ OF Derek Jenkins, Seton Hall (.324, 2 2B, 27 RBI, 38 SB) ♦ 3B Kyle Grimm, Seton Hall (.286, 10 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ RHP Jack Rogalla, Creighton (Trans. Binghamtom, 63 K, 86 IP) ♦ Relief Max Ising, Creighton (2-2, 5.24 ERA, 33 K, 12 BB) ♦ 2B Chris Maranto, Butler (.309, 7 2B, 22 RBI, 8 SB) ♦ OF Tyler Houston, Butler (Brownsburg H.S., IN) ♦ LHP Jeff Schank, Butler (1-3, 4.89 ERA, 38 K, 20 BB) ♦ RHP Chris MyJack, Butler (Trans. Des Moines Area C.C., IA) ♦ C/DH Nick Collins, Georgetown (.351, 2 HR, 8 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ RHP Matt Smith, Georgetown (5-5, 3.21 ERA, 55 K, 38 BB) ♦ LHP Matt Hollenbeck, Georgetown (5-2, 3.18 ERA, 50 K, 31 BB) ♦ 1B Max Beermann, Villanova (.304, 4 HR, 16 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ 2B Todd Czinege, Villanova (.306, 4 HR, 7 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ LHP Josh Harris, Villanova (4-7, 6.45 ERA, 52 K, 31 BB) ♦ LHP Hunter Schryver, Villanova (2-7, 4.55 ERA, 43 K, 25 BB) ♦ RHP Max Almonte, Villanova (Terrific Fall for Wildcats, 94 MPH)

Big South

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI (North Division) 1. Liberty (1) 39 2. Campbell (2) 63 3. High Point (3) 62 4. Radford (4) 98 5. Longwood (6) 226 (South Division) 1. Winthrop (1) 199 2. Coastal Carolina (2) 191 3. Charleston Southern (3) 209 4. Gardner-Webb (4) 213 5. Presbyterian (5) 239 6. N.C. Asheville (6) 271 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Ashton Perritt, Liberty (12 SV, 1.52 ERA, 97 mph FB) Projected Players Of Year ♦ 1B Alex Close, Liberty (.323, 9 HR, 14 2B, 46 RBI) ♦ 1B/C Spencer Angelis, High Point (.390, 3 HR, 15 2B, 37 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ RHP Parker Bean, Liberty (7-3, 2.95 ERA, 78 K, 36 BB) ♦ LHP Shawn Clowers, Liberty (9-0, 0.83 ERA, 48 K, 14 BB) ♦ SS Dalton Britt, Liberty (.299, 7 2B, 35 RBI, 6 SB) ♦ OF John Menken, Winthrop (.248, 2 HR, 8 2B, 21 RBI) ♦ LHP Sam Kmiec, Winthrop (6-4, 2.95 ERA, 73 K, 17 BB) ♦ RHP Zach Sightler, Winthrop (2-5, 3.44 ERA, 37 K) ♦ Relief Joey Strain, Winthrop (6-3, 1 SV, 4.38 ERA, 52 K, 18 BB) ♦ C Roger Gonzalez, Winthrop (Trans. Santa Fe C.C., FL) ♦ 1B Connor Owings, Coastal Carolina (.326, 4 HR, 14 2B, 34 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ 3B Zach Remillard, Coastal Carolina (.259, 3 HR, 12 2B, 32 RBI) ♦ SS Michael Paez, Coastal Carolina (.245, 2 HR, 8 2B, 24 RBI, 17 SB) ♦ RHP Andrew Beckwith, Coastal Car. (3-2, 2 SV, 1.49 ERA, 28 K, 7 BB)

♦ LHP Austin Kerr, Coastal Carolina (2-3, 3.41 ERA, 54 K, 21 BB) ♦ RHP Heath Bowers, Campbell (10-4, 3.04 ERA, 101 K, 33 BB) ♦ OF Cedric Mullins, Campbell (Trans. Louisburg College) ♦ SS Anthony Lopez, Campbell (Trans. Cumberland C.C.) ♦ C Stephen Leonard, Campbell (.293, 6 2B, 29 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ Relief Conor Lourey, High Point (9-0, 2 SV, 1.48 ERA, 70 K, 31 BB) ♦ RHP John McGillicuddy, High Point (6-2, 2.37 ERA, 52 K, 37 BB) ♦ RHP Cas Silber, High Point (5-0, 1.53 ERA, 61 K, 38 BB) ♦ C Josh Spano, High Point (.279, 3 HR, 9 2B, 31 RBI) ♦ OF Josh Greene, High Point (.276, 2 HR, 10 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ 2B Scott Johnson, Gardner-Webb (.271, 2 HR, 10 2B, 24 RBI) ♦ OF Henry Rundio, Gardner-Webb (.268, 8 2B, 19 RBI, 15 SB) ♦ RHP Matt Fraudin, Gardner-Webb (4-7, 2.41 ERA, 108 K, 28 BB)

Big Ten

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Maryland (NA) 21 2. Nebraska (2) 33 3. Illinois (3) 56 4. Indiana (1) 9 5. Michigan (T-4) 108 6. Minnesota (T-4) 118 7. Michigan St. (6) 100 8. Iowa (T-7) 122 9. Rutgers (NA) 89 10. Ohio St. (T-7) 129 11. Northwestern (9) 227 12. Purdue (10) 206 13. Penn St. (11) 233 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Chance Sinclair, Nebraska (9-1, 2.15 ERA, 52 K, 26 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ DH Scott Donley, Indiana (.324, 5 HR, 16 2B, 47 RBI, 5SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ 2B Brandon Lowe, Maryland (.348, 12 2B, 42 RBI) ♦ 3B Jose Cuas, Maryland (.279, 5 HR, 13 2B, 42 RBI) ♦ RHP Mike Shawaryn, Maryland (11-4, 3.12 ERA, 72 K, 24 BB) ♦ Relief Kevin Mooney, Maryland (13 SV, 3-2, 4.33 ERA, 45 K, 18 BB) ♦ RHP Bobby Ruse, Maryland (7-3, 3.52 ERA, 36 K, 15 BB) ♦ OF Ryan Boldt, Nebraska (.311, 2 HR, 12 2B, 31 RBI) ♦ OF Austin Darby, Nebraska (.290, 3 HR, 10 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ LHP Kyle Kubat, Nebraska (5-2, 4.55 ERA, 34 K, 22 BB) ♦ Relief Josh Roeder, Nebraska (12 SV, 3-1, 3.10 ERA, 21 K, 6 BB) ♦ Relief Tyler Jay, Illinois (10 SV, 4-1, 1.94 ERA, 97 mph FB) ♦ LHP Kevin Duchene, Illinois (4-1, 1.80 ERA, 35 K, 11 BB) ♦ RHP Drasen Johnson,Illinois (5-7, 2.91 ERA, 79 K, 20 BB) ♦ RHP John Kravetz, Illinois (6-1, 3.00 ERA, 42 K, 15 BB) ♦ C Jason Goldstein, Illinois (.316, 4 HR, 11 2B, 28 RBI) ♦ 1B David Kerian, Illinois (.280, 12 2B, 33 RBI, 9 SB) ♦ OF Will Krug, Illinois (.307, 10 2B, 24 RBI, 20 SB) ♦ RHP Scott Effross, Indiana (5-3, 1.98 ERA, 40 K, 11 BB) ♦ RHP Christian Morris, Indiana (6-3, 2.04 ERA, 47 K, 21 BB) ♦ Relief Luke Harrison, Indina (3 SV, 6-0, 2.21 ERA, 57 K, 10 BB) ♦ C Brad Hartong, Indiana (.313, 3 HR, 11 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ SS Travis Maezes, Michigan (.302, 3 HR, 18 2B, 21 RBI, 19 SB) ♦ OF Jackson Glines, Michigan (.332, 1 HR, 19 2B, 43 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ RHP/1B Jacob Cronenworth, Michigan (12 SV, 1.75 ERA, .268, 6 2B, 28 RBI) ♦ LHP Brett Adcock, Michigan (7-4, 2.87 ERA, 61 K, 20 BB)

♦ LHP Evan Hill, Michigan (5-6, 3.24 ERA, 63 K, 28 BB) ♦ RHP Keith Lehmann, Michigan (4-1, 2.92 ERA, 32 K, 12 BB) ♦ LHP Dalton Sawyer, Minnesota (6-4, 6 SV, 2.62 ERA, 42 K, 23 BB) ♦ RHP Ben Meyer, Minnesota (4-5, 2.39 ERA, 67 K, 28 BB) ♦ RHP Neil Kunik, Minnesota (2-2, 2.84 ERA, 23 K, 10 BB) ♦ 3B Tony Skjefte, Minnesota (.272, 2 HR, 15 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ C Matt Halloran, Minnesota (Injured last season) ♦ C Blaise Salter, Michigan St. (.317, 5 HR, 22 2B, 50 RBI) ♦ SS Ryan Richardson, Michigan St. (.278, 10 2B, 26 RBI, 13 SB) ♦ RHP Mick VanVossen, Mich. St. (8-3, 2.82 ERA, 77 K, 29 BB) ♦ LHP Cam Vieaux, Michigan St. (6-5, 3.18 ERA, 57 K, 18 BB) ♦ Relief Jeff Kinley, Michigan St. (13 SV, 2-2, 2.45 ERA, 22 K, 13 BB) ♦ OF Eric Toole, Iowa (.302, 9 2B, 30 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ 2B Jake Mangler, Iowa (.315, 1 HR, 11 2B, 45 RBI) ♦ RHP Calvin Mathews, Iowa (3-3, 2.72 ERA, 60 K, 20 BB) ♦ RHP Blake Hickman, Iowa (2-2, 3.93 ERA, 34 K, 23 BB) ♦ OF Joel Booker, Iowa (Trans. Indian Hills C.C. IA) ♦ LHP Howie Brey, Rutgers (6-3, 2.36 ERA, 40 K, 27 BB) ♦ RHP Gaby Rosa, Rutgers (6-3, 2.91 ERA, 30 K, 19 BB) ♦ LHP Mark McCoy, Rutgers (Trans. Wake Forest) ♦ Relief Max Herrmann, Rutgers (4 SV, 3-0, 2.57 ERA, 30 K, 17 BB) ♦ Relief Jon Young, Rutgers (9 SV, 4.72 ERA, 20 K, 10 BB) ♦ OF Vinny Zarrillo, Rutgers (.328, 12 2B, 43 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ LHP Tanner Tully, Ohio St. (6-3, 2.22 ERA, 53 K, 7 BB) ♦ RHP Travis Lakins, Ohio St. (1-3, 2 SV, 2.45 ERA, 55 K, 21 BB) ♦ OF Ronnie Dawson, Ohio St. (.337, 4 HR, 10 2B, 25 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ 3B Troy Kuhn, Ohio St. (.290, 6 HR, 14 2B, 35 RBI) ♦ OF Pat Porter, Ohio St. (.229, 1 HR, 9 2B, 21 RBI) ♦ 2B Kyle Ruchim, Northwestern (Injured last season) ♦ C Scott Heelan, Northwestern (.317, 1 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ RHP Brandon Magallones, Northwst.

(4-7, 5.33 ERA, 44 K, 40 BB) ♦ 1B Kyle Wood, Purdue (.302, 3 HR, 10 2B, 15 RBI) ♦ SS Brandon Krieg, Purdue (.264, 8 2B, 18 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ RHP Gavin Downs, Purdue (3-6, 4.26 ERA, 27 K, 20 BB) ♦ 1B J.J. White, Penn. St. (.266, 2 HR, 4 2B, 24 RBI) ♦ LHP Taylor Lehman, Penn. St. (Keystone Oaks H.S., Pittsburgh, PA)

Big 12

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Texas Christian (2) 7 2. Oklahoma St. (1) 19 3. Texas (5) 3 4. Texas Tech. (4) 12 5. Baylor (7) 75 6. Oklahoma (8) 82 7. West Virginia (6) 38 8. Kansas (3) 44 9. Kansas St. (9) 104 Projected Pitchers Of Year ♦ RHP Preston Morrison, Tex. Christian (9-4, 1.32 ERA, 95 K, 21 BB) ♦ Relief Riley Ferrell, Texas Christian (15 SV, 3-1, 0.79 ERA, 70 K, 14 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ 1B Eric Gutierrez, Texas Tech. (.302, 12 HR, 18 2B, 58 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ LHP Tyler Alexander, Tex. Christian (10-3, 2.36 ERA, 59 K, 11 BB) ♦ RHP Trey Teakell, Texas Christian (6-1, 2 SV, 2.34 ERA, 41 K, 13 BB) ♦ LHP Alex Young, Texas Christian (1 SV, 2.51 ERA, 40 K, 16 BB) ♦ 3B Derek Odell, Texas Christian (.265, 8 2B, 35 RBI) ♦ OF Cody Jones, Texas Christian (.265, 9 2B, 18 RBI, 29 SB) ♦ OF Gage Green, Oklahoma St. (.310, 3 HR, 14 2B, 30 RBI, 20 SB) ♦ OF/P Conor Costello, Oklahoma St. (.240, 9 HR, 10 2B, 27 RBI, 7 IP) ♦ SS Donnie Walton, Oklahoma St. (.310, 3 HR, 15 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ RHP Jon Perrin, Oklahoma St. (8-5, 2.38 ERA, 81 K, 29 BB) ♦ RHP Tyler Buffett, Oklahoma St. (2-1, 2.95 ERA, 36 K, 24 BB) ♦ LHP Garrett Williams, Oklahoma St. (4-1, 50 K, 31 BB, 2 SV) ♦ Relief Blake Battenfield, Oklahoma St. (4-0, 1.69 ERA, 38 K, 20 BB) ♦ RHP Koda Glover, Oklahoma St. (Trans. Eastern Okla. St.) ♦ RHP Parker French, Texas (7-5, 2.41 ERA, 62 K, 44 BB) ♦ RHP Chad Hollingsworth, Texas (4-0, 2 SV, 1.15 ERA, 28 K, 13 BB) ♦ Relief Travis Duke, Texas (2 SV, 2-1, 0.29 ERA, 29 AP) ♦ SS C.J. Hinojosa, Texas (.298, 13 2B, 35 RBI) ♦ OF Ben Johnson, Texas (.263, 6 HR, 11 2B, 33 RBI, 21 SB) ♦ OF Tyler Neslony, Texas Tech. (.375, 4 HR, 12 2B, 6 3B, 34 RBI) ♦ 2B Bryant Burleson, Texas Tech. (.272, 21 2B, 37 RBI) ♦ SS Tim Proudfoot, Texas Tech. (.309, 5 2B, 19 RBI, great defense) ♦ LHP Dylan Dusek, Texas Tech.

(8-0, 1.94 ERA, 38 K, 14 BB) ♦ RHP Ryan Moseley, Texas Tech.

(1-2, 2.84 ERA, 41 K, 25 BB) ♦ LHP Cameron Smith, Texas Tech.

(8-3, 1 SV, 2.79 ERA, 44 K) ♦ RHP Corey Taylor, Texas Tech.

(5-3, 2 SV, 2.61 ERA, 21 AP) ♦ RF Adam Toth, Baylor (.296, 3 HR, 9 2B, 26 RBI, 13 SB) ♦ RHP Austin Stone, Baylor (3-4, 2.28 ERA, 29 K, 20 BB) ♦ LHP Brad Kuntz, Baylor (4-2, 3.32 ERA, 51 K, 34 BB) ♦ SS Sheldon Neuse, Oklahoma (.304, 7 HR, 17 2B, 7 3B, 47 RBI) ♦ LHP Adam Choplick, Oklahoma (3-4, 5.35 ERA, 76 K, 32 BB) ♦ RHP Alec Hansen, Oklahoma (10 AP, 0-1, 4.76 ERA, 16 K) ♦ C Chris Shaw, Oklahoma (Midland Coll., 14th round draft Cards) ♦ SS Taylor Munden, West Virginia (.261, 16 2B, 19 RBI, 13 SB) ♦ C Cam O’Brien, West Virginia (.259, 12 2B, 18 RBI) ♦ LHP Ross Vance, West Virginia (3-4, 3.41 ERA, 51 K, 19 BB) ♦ 2B Colby Wright, Kansas (.314, 21 RBI) ♦ OF Connor McKay, Kansas (.259, 10 2B, 9 HR) ♦ OF Dakota Smith, Kansas (.337, 3 3B, 43 RBI) ♦ RHP Drew Morovick, Kansas (10-4, 5.00 ERA, 44 K, 26 BB) ♦ 1B Shane Conlon, Kansas St. (.296, 1 HR, 8 2B, 29 RBI, 8 SB) ♦ RHP Levi MaVorhis, Kansas St. (6-7, 3.95 ERA, 48 K, 14 BB)

Big West

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Cal. Poly (1) 16 2. U.C. Santa Barbara (T-5) 51 3. Cal. St. Fullerton (4) 48 4. U.C. Irvine (3) 23 5. Long Beach St. (2) 30 6. U.C. Riverside (T-5) 83 7. U.C. Davis (7) 186 8. Hawaii (T-8) 173 9. Cal. St. Northridge (T-8) 181 Projected Pitchers Of Year ♦ RHP Casey Bloomquist, Cal. Poly (12-2, 1.56 ERA, 74 K, 20 BB) ♦ RHP Thoms Eshelman, Cal. St. Full.

(8-3, 1.89 ERA, 99 K, 8 BB) ♦ Relief Dillon Tate, U.C. Santa Barbara (12 SV, 1.45 ERA, 28 AP, 99 mph FB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ 2B Mark Mathias, Cal. Poly (.386, 2 HR, 14 2B, 39 RBI, 12 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ Relief Taylor Chris, Cal. Poly (5 SV, 4-1, 1.61 ERA, 53 K, 23 BB) ♦ RHP Justin Calomeni, Cal. Poly (8-2, 3.68 ERA, 66 K, 18 BB) ♦ 1B Brian Mundell, Cal. Poly (.279, 4 HR, 12 2B, 41 RBI) ♦ LHP Justin Jacome, U.C. Santa Barb.

(8-2, 2.61 ERA, 47 K, 19 BB) ♦ RHP Shane Bieber, U.C. Santa Barb.

(3-4, 3.76 ERA, 33 K, 9 BB) ♦ RHP James Carter, U.C. Santa Barb.

(Trans. Chabot C.C., All-American) ♦ SS Peter Maris, U.C. Santa Barb. (.271, 7 2B, 29 RBI, 16 SB) ♦ DH Robby Nesovic, U.C. Santa Barb. (.325, 1 HR, 15 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ OF Cameron Newell, U.C. Santa Bar. (.271, 12 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ RHP Justin Garza, Cal. St. Fullerton (5-4, 3.22 ERA, 60 K, 14 BB) ♦ C A.J. Kennedy, Cal. St. Fullerton (Quality defensive catcher) ♦ OF Scott Hurst, Cal. St. Fullerton (Leading hitter Alaska League) ♦ C Chris Hudgins, Cal. St. Fullerton (Valhalla H.S., CA, All-League 1st tm) ♦ RHP Connor Seabold, Cal. St. Full.

(Newport Harbor H.S., CA) ♦ LHP John Gavin, Cal. St. Fullerton (St. Francis H.S., CA, WCAL P of Yr) ♦ LHP Elliot Surrey, U.C. Irvine (8-5, 2.32 ERA, 76 K, 29 BB) ♦ LHP Evan Manarino, U.C. Irvine (4-4, 2.66 ERA, 56 K, 9 BB) ♦ Relief Sam Moore, U.C. Irvine (23 SV, 1.85 ERA, 32 AP, 39 K) ♦ RHP Matt Esparza, U.C. Irvine (Trans. Cypress C.C., All-League) ♦ C Jerry McClanahan, U.C. Irvine (.304, 5 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ SS Garret Hampson, Long Beach St. (.308, 13 2B, 19 RBI, 9 SB) ♦ RHP Chris Mathewson, Long Bch. St. (Kaiser H.S., CA, State Player of Yr) ♦ RHP Kyle Friedrichs, Long Beach St. (6 SV, 2-1, 4.10 ERA, 23 AP) ♦ RHP Ty Provencher, Long Beach St. (5 SV, 5-5, 1.77 ERA, 25 AP) ♦ RHP Trey Ferketic, Long Beach St. (Trans. Saddleback CC, All-Conf.) ♦ C Matt Ellis, U.C. Riverside (.249, 4 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ 3B Joe Chavez, U.C. Riverside (.281, 10 2B, 24 RBI, 22 SB) ♦ OF Thomas Walker, U.C. Riverside (.328, 15 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ OF Vince Fernandez, U.C. Riverside (No. 1 prospect West Coast League) ♦ OF Kevin Barker, U.C. Davis (.335, 10 2B, 21 RBI) ♦ 3B Nick Lynch, U.C. Davis (.308, 11 2B, 34 RBI) ♦ RHP Spencer Koopmans, U.C. Davis (4-3, 2.84 ERA, 33 K) ♦ RHP Max Cordy, U.C. Davis (95 mph FB, 45 K, 48 IP) ♦ Relief Zach Stone, U.C. Davis (9 SV, 3-4, 3.14 ERA, 25 AP) ♦ RHP Tyler Brashears, Hawaii (Trans. Saddleback C.C.) ♦ SS Jacob Sheldon-Collins, Hawaii (Trans. Iowa Western C.C.) See COLLEGE OF, Page 26

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Page 21

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Collegiate Baseball

Page 22

RHP Kyle Funkhouser Univ. of Louisville • 13-3 record • 122 strikeouts

RHP Preston Morrison Texas Christian Univ.

• 9-4 record • 1.32 ERA

RHP Carson Fulmer Vanderbilt Univ.

• 7-1 record • 1.98 ERA

LHP Nathan Kirby Univ. of Virginia • 9-3 record • 112 strikeouts

RHP Walker Buehler Vanderbilt University • 12-2 record • 111 strikeouts

FIRST TEAM Pos Player School RHP Kyle Funkhouser Louisville RHP Preston Morrison Texas Christian RHP Carson Fulmer Vanderbilt RHP Walker Buehler Vanderbilt LHP Nathan Kirby Virginia RHP Thomas Eshelman Cal. St. Fullerton Relief•• Riley Ferrell Texas Christian Relief David Berg UCLA

Position Players

Player School Zack Collins Miami (Fla.) Eric Gutierrez Texas Tech.

Casey Jones Elon Connor Panas Canisius Dansby Swanson Vanderbilt D.J. Stewart Florida St. Brandon Rawe Morehead St. Christin Stewart Tennessee Jacob Cronenworth Michigan

SECOND TEAM Pitchers Pos LHP RHP LHP LHP RHP LHP RHP RHP RHP RHP LHP LHP LHP RHP Relief Relief Relief Pos C C 1B 1B 1B 2B 3B SS SS SS OF OF OF UT

Player Taylor Ward Shaun Chase Alex Close Sikes Orvis Jacob Hoyle Bradley Strong Brett Hoffman Alex Bregman Kevin Newman Blake Trahan Joe McCarthy Gio Brusa Chris Shaw Alex Robles

THIRD TEAM Pitchers Pos RHP RHP LHP LHP RHP RHP RHP RHP RHP RHP Relief Relief Relief Relief Relief

W 13 9 7 12 9 8 3 3

Player Bailey Ober Matt Eckelman Brett Lilek Ryan Kellogg Kyle Cody Jake Lemoine Trent Thornton Cal Quantrill Chance Sinclair Brennan Leitao Reilly Hovis Ryan Burr Ashton Perritt Thomas Burrows Brandon Koch

L 3 4 1 2 3 3 1 2

ERA 1.94 1.32 1.98 2.64 2.06 1.89 0.79 1.50

G 18 18 26 19 18 16 31 31

GS 18 18 10 16 18 16 0 0

CG 0 5 1 2 1 5 0 0

SV 0 0 10 0 0 0 15 11

IP 120.3 129.3 91.0 102.3 113.3 123.6 45.3 48.0

H 85 90 61 85 68 100 20 34

BB 64 21 41 31 33 8 14 8

SO 122 95 95 111 112 99 70 35

AVG AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB .298 205 32 61 14 3 11 54 42 47 0 .302 245 46 74 18 2 12 58 26 27 0 .418 196 42 82 20 4 7 53 36 40 11 .362 188 38 68 16 3 6 51 26 36 16 .333 282 63 94 27 2 3 34 37 49 22 .351 194 45 68 19 0 7 50 44 30 4 .390 251 50 98 21 0 10 48 19 27 5 .330 218 45 72 19 6 5 39 15 42 7 Hitting: (.268, 2 HR, 6 2B, 4 3B, 28 RBI, 19 SB) Pitching: (12 SV, 1.75 ERA, 27 K)

Player School Blake Fox Rice James Kaprielian UCLA Christian Trent Mississippi Cole Irvin (‘13 stats) Oregon (T.J. Surg. ‘14) Mike Murray Florida Gulf Coast Andrew Suarez Miami (Fla.) Zach Plesac Ball St. Tyler Davis Washington Justin Garza Cal. St. Fullerton Casey Bloomquist Cal. Poly Jared Poche’ Louisiana St. Brandon Waddell Virginia Tyler Jay Illinois Matt Warren Creighton Sam Moore U.C. Irvine Dillon Tate U.C. Santa Barbara Bryan Garcia Miami (Fla.)

Position Players

Relief Riley Ferrell Texas Christian Univ.

• 15 saves • 0.79 ERA

Relief David Berg UCLA • 11 saves, 3-2 rec.

• 1.50 ERA

C - Zack Collins Univ. of Miami (Fla.) • 11 homers • 14 doubles

W 12 7 9 12 13 6 12 11 5 12 9 10 4 10 0 2 7

L 0 6 0 3 1 3 2 2 4 2 3 3 1 1 3 1 4

ERA 1.46 2.29 2.05 2.48 1.85 2.95 2.11 1.60 3.22 1.56 2.45 2.45 1.94 2.03 1.85 1.45 1.75

G 15 15 17 16 15 16 25 17 12 16 16 18 23 14 32 28 31

GS 15 15 17 16 15 16 6 15 11 14 16 18 0 12 0 0 0

CG 0 1 1 4 2 1 1 1 1 2 1 2 0 1 0 0 0

SV 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 1 0 1 0 0 10 0 23 12 15

IP 104.6 106.0 110.0 116.0 107.0 109.6 35.3 106.6 72.6 98.0 91.6 114.0 41.6 84.3 43.6 43.3 51.3

H 88 76 95 105 92 108 75 88 68 87 72 98 28 62 35 32 40

BB 27 35 20 22 14 15 33 15 14 21 26 19 13 25 11 17 19

SO 69 108 86 60 79 87 67 62 60 74 52 73 47 45 39 46 56

School AVG AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB Fresno St. .320 219 29 70 8 0 6 41 28 49 3 Oregon .283 145 26 41 9 0 14 37 15 49 1 Liberty .323 217 36 70 14 0 9 46 17 46 3 Mississippi .294 235 40 69 14 1 14 53 37 48 1 Western Carolina .332 223 43 74 11 0 14 53 19 47 6 Western Carolina .339 239 58 81 20 6 6 53 19 41 20 S.E. Louisiana .312 234 31 73 17 0 1 41 16 39 0 Louisiana St. .316 244 35 77 16 0 6 47 27 21 12 Arizona (Became first player ever to win back-to-back hitting titles in the Cape Cod League, .375, .380) La.-Lafayette .355 256 58 91 12 2 4 49 44 37 15 Virginia .301 256 55 77 16 2 6 49 35 34 11 Pacific (Athletic switch hitter who was top position player in Cape Cod League, .322, 6 HR, 20 RBI) Boston College .329 207 25 68 18 0 6 45 21 38 1 Austin Peay Hitting: (.349, 14 2B, 39 RBI) Pitching: (6-2, 3.63 ERA, 56 K, 20 BB)

School Coll. of Charleston St. Louis Arizona St. Arizona St. Kentucky Houston North Carolina Stanford Nebraska Sacramento St. North Carolina Arizona St. Liberty Alabama Dallas Baptist

PRE-SEASON

•• Projected National Player Of The Year

W 10 7 4 8 4 6 7 7 9 9 9 3 1 4 8

L 3 2 5 3 0 8 4 5 1 4 1 3 2 2 1

ERA 1.52 1.63 2.68 3.76 2.84 2.87 2.73 2.68 2.15 2.15 2.25 3.27 1.52 2.15 0.64

G 17 22 16 16 18 17 16 18 16 19 34 30 21 24 28

GS 14 2 15 16 6 17 14 17 16 18 1 3 0 0 0

CG 2 0 0 1 0 1 1 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0

SV 0 9 1 0 5 0 1 0 0 0 6 12 12 11 9

IP 106.6 60.6 84.0 103.0 38.0 106.6 95.6 110.6 100.6 117.0 64.0 44.0 29.6 37.6 42.3

H 73 51 59 121 36 98 77 90 87 103 44 22 20 24 25

BB 19 12 39 22 13 29 29 34 26 23 24 38 5 15 22

SO 85 35 79 66 20 87 83 98 52 79 81 56 28 34 70

Pos Player School AVG C/2B Paul DeJong Illinois St. .349 C Jameson Fisher S.E. Louisiana .389 1B Austin Byler Nevada .326 1B Charles Sikes Savannah St. .368 1B Reagan Fowler Creighton .362 2B Scott Kingery Arizona .354 2B Mark Mathias Cal. Poly .386 2B Hutton Moyer Pepperdine .306 2B Jake Noll Florida Gulf Coast .367 3B Ty France San Diego St. .356 3B Andy Lennington S.E. Missouri St. .312 SS Dylan Bosheers Tennessee Tech. .368 SS Kevin Kramer (‘13 stats) UCLA (Injured ‘14) .278 SS Travis Maezes Michigan .302 OF Steven Duggar Clemson .294 OF Ian Happ Cincinnati .322 OF Kewby Meyer Nevada .328 OF Bryan Reynolds Vanderbilt .338

AB 218 239 221 201 185 195 210 232 275 233 231 234 245 222 238 171 247 281

R 44 53 51 41 38 41 48 52 56 55 34 66 41 47 45 32 48 53

H 76 93 72 74 67 69 81 71 101 83 72 86 68 67 70 55 81 95

2B 21 17 14 16 16 11 14 24 18 18 18 14 11 18 11 13 27 24

3B 3 1 5 1 3 4 1 4 1 0 5 1 2 4 3 1 2 2

HR 9 0 14 10 0 1 2 0 0 5 0 11 3 3 1 5 3 4

RBI 48 39 47 51 27 26 39 22 29 45 45 56 42 21 36 27 29 54

BB 22 30 25 20 26 33 23 17 21 28 11 27 30 33 27 32 22 23

SO 39 29 48 36 25 27 18 38 23 25 52 32 47 34 51 35 11 49

SB 2 9 7 1 9 19 12 15 25 3 9 8 9 19 25 19 6 14

Position Players

RHP Tom Eshelman Cal. St. Fullerton Univ.

• 99 strikeouts • Only 8 walks

(Final 2014 Statistics)

Pitchers

Pos C 1B 2B 3B SS OF OF OF UT

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

2015 NCAA Division I

All-Americans As chosen by Collegiate Baseball

1B - Eric Gutierrez Texas Tech. Univ.

• 18 doubles • 12 homers

2B - Casey Jones Elon University • .418 batting avg.

• 20 stolen bases

3B - Connor Panas Canisius University • .362 batting avg.

• 16 doubles

SS - Dansby Swanson Vanderbilt University • 27 doubles • 22 stolen bases

OF- D. J. Stewart Florida St. University • .351 batting avg.

• 19 doubles

OF - Brandon Rawe Morehead St. Univ.

• .390 batting avg.

• 21 homers

OF - Christin Stewart Univ. of Tennessee • .330 batting avg.

• 19 doubles

UT - J. Cronenworth Univ. of Michigan • 19 SB, 4 triples • 12 saves, 1.75 ERA

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Collegiate Baseball

Page 23

Page 24

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Collegiate Baseball

Page 25

Collegiate Baseball

Page 26

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

College Of Charleston Loaded In Colonial Conference (.258, 1 HR, 9 2B, 19 RBI) ♦ 3B Marc Sredojevic, Brown (.259, 18 RBI, 5 SB) ♦ RHP Christian Taugner, Brown (2-4, 2.39 ERA, 49 K, 9 BB) ♦ RHP Dave St. Lawrence, Brown (1-6, 5.44 ERA, 32 K, 11 BB) ♦ OF Mike Martin, Harvard (.304, 6 2B, 12 RBI, 17 SB) ♦ P Michael Byrne, Cornell (3-4, 1.86 ERA, 49 K, 20 BB)

Continued From Page 20

♦ RHP Josh Pigg, Hawaii (Trans. Cosumnes River C.C.) ♦ OF Kaeo Aliviado, Hawaii (.310, 8 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ LHP Jerry Keel, Cal. St. Northridge (72 K, 41 BB in 94 IP, 3.64 ERA) ♦ SS Yusuke Akitoshi, Cal. St. Northr.

(Skagit Valley Coll., JC All-American)

Colonial

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Coll. of Charleston (2) 41 2. William & Mary (1) 70 3. N.C. Wilmington (3) 96 4. Elon (NA) 144 5. Delaware (4) 161 6. Northeastern (5) 194 7. Hofstra (T-6) 228 8. James Madison (T-6) 205 9. Towson (8) 136 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Bailey Ober, Coll. of Charleston (10-3, 1.52 ERA, 85 K, 19 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ 2B Casey Jones, Elon (.418, 7 HR, 20 2B, 53 RBI, 11 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ RHP Taylor Clarke, Coll. of Charleston (10-4, 2.51 ERA, 92 K, 31 BB) ♦ RHP Tyler Thornton, Coll. of Charles.

(7-5, 3.03 ERA, 71 K, 17 BB) ♦ 3B Carl Wise, Coll. of Charleston (.295, 3 HR, 11 2B, 64 RBI) ♦ OF Morgan Phillips, Coll. of Charles. (.247, 14 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ C Ryan Hissey, William & Mary (.313, 8 HR, 8 2B, 39 RBI) ♦ DH Charlie Gould, William & Mary (.333, 7 HR, 14 2B, 42 RBI) ♦ SS Tim Hoehn, William & Mary (.262, 4 HR, 19 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ LHP Jason Inghram, William & Mary (10-2, 2.71 ERA, 91 K, 21 BB) ♦ RHP Mitch Aker, William & Mary (4-1, 4.10 ERA, 29 K, 14 BB) ♦ Relief Joe Gaouette, William & Mary (4 SV, 3-1, 1.84 ERA, 54 K, 21 BB) ♦ OF Casey Golden, N.C. Wilmington (.269, 4 HR, 12 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ 1B Corey Dick, N.C. Wilmington (.315, 6 HR, 3 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ RHP Jordan Ramsey, N.C. Wilming.

(2-4, 5.80 ERA, 42 K, 14 BB) ♦ OF Norm Donkin, Delaware (.316, 3 HR, 16 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ OF Joe Giacchino, Delaware (.314, 14 2B, 23 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ 1B Ryan Hartley, Delaware (.282, 6 HR, 7 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ Relief Luke Alicknavitch, Delaware (6 SV, 2-3, 3.64 ERA, 32 K, 14 BB) ♦ SS Michael Foster, Northeastern (.299, 10 2B, 36 RBI, 18 SB) ♦ 1B Rob Fonseca, Northeastern (Medical redshirt) ♦ RHP Nick Berger, Northeastern (3-6, 3.83 ERA, 85 K, 31 BB) ♦ RHP Dustin Hunt, Northeastern (6-1, 2.50 ERA, 73 K, 30 BB) ♦ SS Dalton Rouleau, Hofstra (Injured last season after 15 games) ♦ DH Brian MacDonald, Hofstra (.318, 4 HR, 12 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ RHP Nick Kozlowski, Hofstra (6-5, 4.45 ERA, 44 K, 38 BB) ♦ OF Brett Johnson, Hofstra (Transfer from TCU, injured in 2014) ♦ 1B Kyle Weston, James Madison (.300, 2 HR, 14 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ SS Chad Carroll, James Madison (Injured last season)

Conference USA

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Rice (1) 14 2. Southern Miss. (3) 64 3. Florida International (T-6) 88 4. Texas-San Antonio (T-6) 102 5. Alabama-Birm. (2) 78 6. Old Dominion (T-4) 43 7. Middle Tennessee (T-4) 90 8. Florida Atlantic (9) 99 9. Western Kentucky (NA) 126 10. N.C. Charlotte (T-11) 168 11. Marshall (T-11) 229 12. Louisiana Tech. (13) 243 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ LHP Blake Fox,Rice (12-0, 1.46 ERA, 69 K, 27 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ OF Jared Allen, Middle Tenn. St. (.257, 10 HR, 11 2B, 33 RBI, 8 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ RHP Kevin McCanna, Rice (8-3, 2.69 ERA, 65 K, 24 BB) ♦ RHP Jon Duplantier, Rice (2-3, 2.29 ERA, 58 K, 38 BB) ♦ Relief Matt Ditman, Rice (9 SV,5-6, 1.83 ERA, 77 K, 12 BB) ♦ SS Leon Byrd, Rice (.258, 6 2B, 16 RBI) ♦ 2B Ford Stainback, Rice (.258, 7 2B, 28 RBI) ♦ C/DH John Clay Reeves, Rice (.317, 6 HR, 7 2B, 41 RBI) ♦ OF Connor Barron, Southern Miss. (.246, 10 HR, 4 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ DH Matt Durst, Southern Miss. (.277, 6 HR, 9 2B, 42 RBI) ♦ RHP Christian Talley, Southern Miss.

(4-4, 2.67 ERA, 74 K,14 BB) ♦ 2B Edwin Rios, Fla. International (.296, 2 HR, 14 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ RHP Chris Mourelle, Fla. Intl.

(9-3, 1.95 ERA, 37 K, 11 BB) ♦ RHP Cody Crouse, Fla. International (4-3, 2.23 ERA, 38 K, 18 BB) ♦ RHP Robbie Kalaf, Fla. International (3-2, 3.75 ERA, 33 K, 23 BB) ♦ 3B Josh Anderson, Fla. International (.300, 5 HR, 13 2B, 43 RBI) ♦ OF Jesse Baker, Texas-San Antonio

Metro Atlantic

RHP BRANDON KOCH

…8-1, 9 SV, 0.64 ERA, 28 AP, 70 K for Dallas Baptist (.273, 6 HR, 12 2B, 37 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ RHP Brock Hartson, Tex.-San Ant. (7-3, 2.24 ERA, 88 K, 30 BB) ♦ LHP Nolan Trabanino, Tex.-San Ant. (9-3, 2.43 ERA, 41 K, 19 BB) ♦ RHP Logan Onda, Tex.-San Antonio (8 SV, 3-2, 2.34ERA, 30 AP, 54 K) ♦ RHP Alex Luna, Alabama-Birm.

(7-1, 1.76 ERA, 58 K, 17 BB) ♦ RHP Johnny Lieske, Alabama-Birm.

(5-2, 2.69 ERA, 56 K) ♦ OF Chase Davis, Alabama-Birm. (.278, 11 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ OF Jeff Schalk, Alabama-Birm. (.277, 7 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ 3B Nathan Vincent, Alabama-Birm. (.216, 11 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ RHP James Naile, Alabama-Birm.

(Redshirted) ♦ 2B P.J. Higgins, Old Dominion (.308, 15 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ C Mike Perez, Old Dominion (.244, 1 HR, 16 RBI) ♦ RHP Thomas Busbice, Old Dominion (Trans. Iowa Western C.C.) ♦ SS Dustin Delgado, Middle Tenn. St. (.306, 12 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ 2B Austin Bryant, Middle Tenn. St. (.286, 12 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ RHP Seth McGarry, Florida Atlantic (1.54 ERA in 10 AP) ♦ 3B Ricky Santiago, Fla. Atlantic (.243, 3 HR, 12 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ 2B Stephen Kerr, Fla. Atlantic (.324, 10 2B, 15 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ SS C.J. Chatham, Fla. Atlantic (.300, 11 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ OF Brendon Sanger, Fla. Atlantic (.332, 2 HR, 11 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ RHP Drew Jackson, Fla. Atlantic (5-4, 4.48 ERA, 56 K, 24 BB) ♦ LHP Bo Logan, Fla. Atlantic (4-1, 1.28 ERA, 46 K, 7 BB) ♦ OF Anderson Miller, Western Ky. (.335, 11 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ C Ryan Messex, Western Ky. (.285, 9 2B, 17 RBI) ♦ 1B Ryan Church, Western Ky. (.306, 7 HR, 11 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ SS Cody Wofford, Western Ky. (.288, 6 2B, 5 HR, 26 RBI) ♦ RHP Josh Bartley, Western Ky. (5-4, 4.61 ERA, 38 K, 29 BB) ♦ OF Des Roberts, N.C. Charlotte (.246, 7 2B, 23 RBI, 5 SB) ♦ OF T.J. Nichting, N.C. Charlotte (.283, 13 2B, 17 RBI) ♦ DH Logan Sherer, N.C. Charlotte (.260, 5 HR, 6 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ P J.D. Hammer, Marshall (Trans. Navarro J.C., TX) ♦ RHP Michael Taylor, Marshall (3-6, 3.56 ERA, 41 K) ♦ RHP Josh King, Marshall (2-2, 2.60 ERA, 28 K, 15 BB) ♦ T.J. Diffenderfer, Marshall (.258, 4 HR, 6 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ OF Corey Bird, Marshall (.292, 3 2B, 12 RBI, 15 SB) ♦ SS Taylor Love, Louisiana Tech. (.318, 12 2B, 17 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ RHP Phil Maton, Louisiana Tech.

(4.98 ERA, 80 IP, 66 K, 27 BB)

Horizon

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Wright St. (1) 124 2. Illinois-Chicago (2) 254 3. Valparaiso (3) 210 4. Wisc.-Milwaukee (4) 281 5. Oakland (5) 259 6. Youngstown St. (6) 261 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ LHP Dalton Lundeen, Valparaiso (5-6, 1.94 ERA, 64 K, 12 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ OF Bobby Enslen, Oakland (.378, 4 HR, 12 2B, 38 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ C Sean Murphy, Wright St. (.301, 4 HR, 11 2B, 35 RBI) ♦ 2B Michael Timm, Wright St. (.325, 3 HR, 17 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ OF Andrew McCafferty, Wright St. (.274, 3 HR, 17 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ LHP Robby Sexton, Wright St.

(8-4, 2.95 ERA, 61 K, 34 BB) ♦ Relief Andrew Elliott, Wright St. (13 SV, 2-0, 0.65 ERA, 61 K, 16 BB) ♦ RHP Jesse Scholtens, Wright St. (Trans. Diablo Valley C.C.) ♦ C Tyler Detmer, Illinois-Chicago (.330, 5 HR, 9 2B, 39 RBI) ♦ OF Jeff Boehm, Illinois-Chicago (.302, 7 HR, 16 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ P Jake Dahlberg, Illinois-Chicago (Mount Hood C.C., 5-2, 2.66 ERA) ♦ RHP Ian Lewandowski, Ill.-Chicago (4-6, 4.02 ERA, 28 K) ♦ RHP Brian Keller, Wisc.-Milwaukee (2-7, 4.26 ERA, 54 K) ♦ RHP Joe Pavlovich, Wisc.-Milwaukee (Trans. Wisconsin-Oshkosh) ♦ 2B Mike Porcaro, Wisc.-Milwaukee (.271, 10 2B, 24 RBI) ♦ 3B Tyler Hermann, Wisc.-Milwaukee (.280, 3 HR, 5 2B, 17 RBI) ♦ OF Sam Koenig, Wisc.-Milwaukee (Injured, .424, 4 2B in 9 games) ♦ SS Mike Brosseau, Oakland (.321, 2 HR, 12 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ LHP Jason Hager, Oakland (3-4, 4.12 ERA, 51 K, 26 BB) ♦ Relief Kevin Yarabinec, Youngstown St. (5 SV, 2-2, 2.22 ERA, 20 AP) ♦ P D.J. Carr, Youngstown St. (Chandler-Gilbert C.C., AZ, 1.20 ERA) ♦ RHP Jeremy Quinlan, Youngstown St. (1-2, 4.78 ERA, 18 K, 9 BB) ♦ 1B Brent Gillespie, Youngstown St. (.260, 2 HR, 13 2B, 20 RBI)

Ivy League

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI (Lou Gehrig Division) 1. Columbia (T-1) 42 2. Pennsylvania (T-1) 137 3. Cornell (3) 211 4. Princeton (4) 222 (Red Rolfe Division) 1. Yale (T-1) 235 2. Dartmouth (T-1) 175 3. Brown (3) 246 4. Harvard (4) 275 Projected Pitchers Of Year ♦ RHP Connor Cuff, Pennsylvania (5-3, 1.77 ERA, 49 K, 9 BB) ♦ RHP Duncan Robinson, Dartmouth (7-3, 2.96 ERA, 40 K, 18 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ DH Ryan Karl, Cornell (.280, 9 HR, 10 2B, 32 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ 2B Will Savage, Columbia (.320, 1 HR, 8 2B, 15 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ 3B David Vandercook, Columbia (.252, 5 HR, 15 2B, 34 RBI) ♦ OF Gus Craig, Columbia (.277, 6 HR, 9 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ INF/OF Jordan Serena, Columbia (.305, 9 2B, 14 RBI, 25 SB) ♦ OF Robb Paller, Columbia (.296, 3 HR, 12 2B, 35 RBI) ♦ RHP/OF George Thanopoulos, Colum.

(5-2, 2.60 ERA, 40 K, 18 BB) ♦ RHP Kevin Roy, Columbia (6-5, 3.06 ERA, 49 K, 23 BB) ♦ RHP Chris Lanham, Yale (7-2, 3.77 ERA, 46 K, 16 BB) ♦ C Robert Baldwin, Yale (.304, 3 HR, 10 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ RHP Michael Concato, Dartmouth (2-3, 3.81 ERA, 28 K, 13 BB) ♦ Relief Thomas Olson, Dartmouth (Injured last season, 6 SV in 2013) ♦ 2B Thomas Roulis, Dartmouth (.300, 5 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ 3B Nick Lombardi, Dartmouth (.277, 5 HR, 9 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ C Austin Bossart, Pennsylvania (.297, 4 HR, 9 2B, 19 RBI) ♦ 1B Jeff McGarry, Pennsylvania (.316, 4 HR, 12 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ SS Ryan Mincher, Pennsylvania (.271, 4 HR, 10 2B, 24 RBI) ♦ LHP Ronnie Glenn, Pennsylvania (5-2, 3.46 ERA, 48 K, 16 BB) ♦ RHP Jake Cousins, Pennsylvania (4-0, 1.59 ERA, 21 K, 15 BB) ♦ OF Rob Henry, Brown (.245, 4 2B, 9 RBI) ♦ OF Will Marcal, Brown

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Canisius (1) 68 2. Siena (2) 182 3. Fairfield (3) 150 4. Monmouth (T-4) 203 5. Quinnipiac (T-4) 238 6. Manhattan (6) 276 7. Rider (10) 285 8. Marist (7) 267 9. Niagara (8) 258 10. Iona (9) 284 11. St. Peter’s (11) 288 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ LHP Alex Godzak, Canisius (10-3, 2.63 ERA, 51 K, 42 BB, 1 SV) Projected Player Of Year ♦ 3B Connor Panas, Canisius (.362, 6 HR, 16 2B, 51 RBI, 16 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ SS Anthony Massicci, Canisius (.364, 1 HR, 8 2B, 31 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ OF Brett Siddall, Canisius (.333, 3 HR, 11 2B, 43 RBI) ♦ DH Jesse Puscheck, Canisius (.295, 3 HR, 14 2B, 40 RBI) ♦ RHP Devon Stewart, Canisius (6-5, 4.38 ERA, 43 K, 23 BB) ♦ Relief Brandon Bielecki, Canisius (5 SV, 3-1, 2.70 ERA, 19 AP) ♦ OF Dan Swain, Siena (.293, 2 HR, 10 2B, 27 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ 3B Justin Esquerra, Siena (.290, 2 HR, 9 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ RHP Ed Lewicki, Siena (4-7, 5.75 ERA, 48 K, 37 BB) ♦ RHP Bryan Goossens, Siena (3-5, 6.28 ERA, 38 K, 25 BB) ♦ RHP E.J. Ashworth, Fairfield (6-2, 2.85 ERA, 47 K, 18 BB) ♦ RHP Mike Wallace, Fairfield (5-5, 3.32 ERA, 54 K, 15 BB) ♦ Relief Andrew Gallagher, Fairfield (3 SV, 2-1, 1.64 ERA, 22 AP) ♦ C Jake Salpietro, Fairfield (.307, 5 HR, 16 2B, 44 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ OF Alex Witkus, Fairfield (.271, 2 2B, 10 RBI, 29 SB) ♦ C Kyle Perry, Monmouth (.248, 4 2B, 7 RBI) ♦ DH Grant Lamberton, Monmouth (.280, 8 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ OF Steve Wilgus, Monmouth (.277, 8 2B, 16 RBI) ♦ RHP Chris McKenna, Monmouth (4-4, 2.93 ERA, 51 K, 11 BB) ♦ Relief Jeff Paglione, Monmouth (5 SV, 1-2, 2.84 ERA, 19 AP) ♦ DH C. Santisteban, Manhattan (.314, 17 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ OF Chris Kalousdian, Manhattan (.285, 8 2B, 15 RBI, 23 SB) ♦ SS Jose Carrera, Manhattan (.260, 10 2B, 18 RBI, 26 SB) ♦ RHP Joey Rocchietti, Manhattan (2-6, 3.26 ERA, 41 K, 30 BB) ♦ 3B Nick Richter, Rider (.321, 11 2B, 18 RBI, 41 SB) ♦ 1B Justin Thomas, Rider (.341, 4 HR, 11 2B, 45 RBI) ♦ 2B Greg Fazio, Rider (.245, 14 2B, 21 RBI) ♦ RHP Kurt Sowa, Rider (2-5, 4.57 ERA, 58 K, 44 BB)

Mid-American

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI (Eastern Division) 1. Kent St. (2) 127 2. Miami, Ohio (1) 111 3. Bowling Green St. (3) 140 4. Buffalo 171 5. Akron 172 6. Ohio 294 (Western Division) 1. Ball St. (1) 60 2. Central Michigan (2) 128 3. Western Michigan (T-3) 190 4. Toledo (T-3) 200 5. Northern Illinois (T-3) 220 6. Eastern Michigan (6) 265 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Zach Plesac, Ball St. (12-2, 6 SV, 2.11 ERA, 67 K, 33 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ OF Alex Miklos, Kent St. (.362, 3 HR, 18 2B, 36 RBI, 17 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ 1B Zarley Zelewski, Kent St. (.351, 2 HR, 16 2B, 42 RBI) ♦ LHP Eric Lauer, Kent St. (8-4, 3.26 ERA, 64 K, 36 BB) ♦ RHP Nick Jensen-Clagg, Kent St. (5-2, 4.50 ERA, 73 K, 18 BB) ♦ C Jarrett Rindfleisch, Ball St. (.352, 4 HR, 9 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ 2B Ryan Spaulding, Ball St. (.292, 6 HR, 13 2B, 40 RBI) ♦ RF Alex Call, Ball St. (.354, 15 2B, 24 RBI) ♦ RHP Scott Baker, Ball St. (7-5, 4.04 ERA, 61 K, 18 BB) ♦ RHP Ryan Powers, Miami (Ohio) (9-3, 4.25 ERA, 60 K, 35 BB, 1 SV) ♦ DH Gary Russo, Miami (Ohio) (.284, 10 HR, 16 2B, 40 RBI) ♦ C Max Andresen, Miami (Ohio) (.314, 2 HR, 10 2B, 28 RBI) ♦ 2B Steve Sada, Miami (Ohio) (.309, 15 2B, 21 RBI, 9 SB) ♦ SS Ryan Elble, Miami (Ohio) (.317, 3 HR, 13 2B, 35 RBI)

♦ C Tyler Huntey, Central Michigan (.329, 5 HR, 10 2B, 51 RBI, 13 SB) ♦ 1B Cody Leichman, Central Mich. (.315, 7 HR, 15 2B, 56 RBI) ♦ OF Nick Regnier, Central Michigan (.290, 2 2B, 28 RBI, 35 SB) ♦ LHP Nick Deeg, Central Michigan (5-4, 4.08 ERA, 64 K, 26 BB) ♦ RHP Tim Black, Central Michigan (2-1, 9 SV, 1.91 ERA, 21 AP) ♦ SS Brian Bien, Bowling Green St. (.351, 8 2B, 22 RBI, 17 SB) ♦ 3B Brandon Howard, Bowling Green (.299, 2 2B, 3 3B, 21 RBI, 23 SB) ♦ LHP Andrew Lacinak, Bowling Green (6-3, 3.24 ERA, 34 K) ♦ Relief Trevor Blaylock, Bowling Green (1 SV, 2-1, 3.57 ERA, 18 K, 6 BB) ♦ 2B Kurt Hoekstra, Western Michigan (.297, 7 2B, 21 RBI, 7 SB) ♦ C Brett Sunde, Western Michigan (.283, 2 HR, 6 2B, 35 RBI) ♦ OF Jared Kujawa, Western Mich. (.258, 3 HR, 8 2B, 37 RBI, 8 SB) ♦ LHP Keegan Akin, Western Mich.

(6-4, 3.46 ERA, 62 K, 49 BB) ♦ RHP Chad Mayle, Western Mich.

(6-5, 2.59 ERA, 50 K, 44 BB) ♦ Relief Gabe Berman, Western Mich.

(9 SV, 1-3, 2.62 ERA, 23 AP) ♦ LHP John Valek, Akron (6-4, 2.77 ERA, 28 K, 21 BB) ♦ RHP J.T. Brubaker, Akron (3-5, 4.02 ERA, 45 K, 37 BB) ♦ OF Kris Simonton, Akron (.320, 5 2B, 23 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ OF Daulton Mosbarger, Akron (.246, 10 2B, 18 RBI) ♦ 2B Justin Fletcher, Northern Illinois (.278, 8 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ SS Brian Sisler, Northern Illinois (.304, 9 2B, 16 RBI) ♦ Relief Ben Neuman, Northern Illinois (1 SV, 4-0, 1.86 ERA, 24 AP) ♦ 2B John Rubino, Eastern Michigan (.329, 10 2B, 34 RBI, 23 SB) ♦ OF Michael Mioduszewski, E. Mich. (.248, 9 2B, 23 RBI) ♦ RHP Ryan Lavoie, Eastern Michigan (2-4, 4.92 ERA, 29 K, 13 BB) ♦ RHP Jake Andrews, Eastern Michigan (3-5, 4.85 ERA, 31 K, 21 BB)

Mid-Eastern

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI (Northern Division) 1. Norfolk St. (2) 255 2. Delaware St. (1) 250 3. Coppin St. (3) 298 4. Md.-Eastern Shore (4) 295 (Southern Division) 1. Bethune-Cookman (T-1) 197 2. Florida A&M (T-1) 217 3. N.C. Central (3) 286 4. Savannah St. (4) 253 5. North Carolina A&T (5) 277 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Keith Zuniga, Bethune-Cookman (8-4, 2.70 ERA, 57 K, 19 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ 1B Charles Sikes, Savannah St. (.368, 10 HR, 16 2B, 51 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ Relief Michael Austin, Bethune-Cook.

(3 SV, 3.03 ERA, 23 AP) ♦ OF Bryant Munoz, Bethune-Cookman (.303, 5 2B, 1 3B, 13 RBI) ♦ 3B Jordan Robinson, Bethune-Cook. (.238, 7 2B, 3 3B, 30 RBI) ♦ 1B/3B Ryan Kennedy, Florida A&M (.303, 8 HR, 5 2B, 40 RBI) ♦ OF Marlon Gibbs, Florida A&M (.335, 11 2B, 21 RBI, 13/16 SB) ♦ OF Jared Walker, Florida A&M (.321, 6 2B, 13 RBI, 7 SB) ♦ RHP Chase Jarrell, Florida A&M (5-2, 3.42 ERA, 47 K, 15 BB) ♦ LHP Devin Hemmerich, Norfolk St. (5-3, 2.49 ERA, 38 K, 13 BB) ♦ 1B/OF Bobby Dragon, Coppin St. (Trans. Mercyhurst Univ. N.E.) ♦ LHP Anderson Burgess, Coppin St. (1-4, 6.70 ERA, 35 K) ♦ OF Jack Kraft, Coppin St. (.304, 5 2B, 22 RBI, 4 SB) ♦ RHP Yahya Muhammad, Coppin St. (26 appearances, 39 K) ♦ RHP Andrew Vernon, N.C. Central (7 SV, 2-2, 5.31 ERA, 39 AP) ♦ 3B Troy Marrow, N.C. Central (Medical redshirt last season) ♦ OF Ronald Thompson, N.C. Central (Medical redshirt last season) ♦ LHP Jordan Quinn, N.C. Central (Medical redshirt last season) ♦ OF David Richards, Savannah St. (.333, 7 2B, 14 RBI) ♦ RHP Austin Denney, Savannah St. (5-5, 4.42 ERA, 46 K, 27 BB) ♦ RHP Brandon Whitmore, Savann. St. (4-5, 4.86 ERA, 44 K, 27 BB) ♦ RHP Jesse Stinnett, Md.-East. Shore (4-5, 4.26 ERA, 49 K, 25 BB) ♦ C/DH Justin Dattilo, Md.-East. Shore (.264, 9 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ OF Greg Turlik, Md.-East. Shore (.244, 2 HR, 7 2B, 26 RBI)

Missouri Valley

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Wichita St. (4) 79 2. Dallas Baptist (T-2) 37 3. Indiana St. (T-2) 32 4. Missouri St. (6) 110 5. Evansville (1) 80 6. Illinois St. (5) 87 7. Bradley (7) 162 8. Southern Illinois (8) 202 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ Relief Brandon Koch, Dallas Baptist (9 SV, 8-1, 0.64 ERA, 28 AP, 70 K) Projected Player Of Year See SAN DIEGO ST., Page 27

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Page 27

San Diego St. Heads Up Mountain West Conference Continued From Page 26

♦ C/INF Paul DeJong, Illinois St. (.349, 9 HR, 21 2B, 48 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ LHP/1B Sam Hilliard, Wichita St. (Crowder College, 31st round draft) ♦ RHP Isaac Anderson, Wichita St. (Southern Idaho, drafted 19th round) ♦ RHP Willie Schwanke, Wichita St. (Grayson College, TX, former A-A) ♦ RHP Sam Tewes, Wichita St. (8-3, 3.27 ERA, 50 K, 30 BB) ♦ OF Daniel Kihle, Wichita St. (.313, 12 2B, 22 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ RHP Joseph Shaw, Dallas Baptist (4-4, 2.96 ERA, 49 K, 16 BB) ♦ RHP Cory Taylor, Dallas Baptist (4-4, 3.50 ERA, 90 K, 51 BB) ♦ SS Camden Duzenack, Dallas Bapt. (.321, 14 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ C Daniel Salters, Dallas Baptist (.251, 6 HR, 14 2B, 43 RBI) ♦ LHP David Stagg, Indiana St. (7-5, 3.22 ERA, 89 K, 45 BB) ♦ RHP Brad Lombard, Indiana St. (6-3, 3.48 ERA, 55 K, 30 BB) ♦ Relief Ryan Keaffaber, Indiana St. (11 SV, 3-2, 3.26 ERA, 24 AP) ♦ OF Landon Curry, Indiana St. (.285, 4 2B, 20 RBI, 18 SB) ♦ OF Jacob Hayes, Indiana St. (.275, 4 HR, 12 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ OF Tate Metheny, Missouri St. (.330, 10 HR, 9 2B, 37 RBI, 7 SB) ♦ C Matt Fultz, Missouri St. (.252, 3 HR, 11 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ 2B Eric Cheray, Missouri St. (.290, 3 HR, 10 2B, 32 RBI) ♦ RHP Jon Harris, Missouri St. (3-5, 2 SV, 3.16 ERA, 66 K, 28 BB) ♦ Relief Adam Anawalt, Missouri St. (4 SV, 5.40 ERA, 10 AP) ♦ OF Kevin Kaczmarski, Evansville (.315, 4 HR, 19 2B, 50 RBI) ♦ SS Shain Showers, Evansville (.294, 4 HR, 13 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ 2B Brett Synek, Evansville (.281, 9 2B, 41 RBI) ♦ RHP Connor Strain, Evansville (3-4, 4.21 ERA, 31 K, 29 BB) ♦ RHP Patrick Schnieders, Evansville (Jefferson County C.C., MO) ♦ OF Daniel Dwyer, Illinois St. (.318, 7 2B, 32 RBI, 8 SB) ♦ LHP Will Headean, Illinois St. (3-3, 4.70 ERA, 55 K, 26 BB) ♦ RHP Elliot Ashbeck, Bradley (6-3, 2.57 ERA, 46 K, 15 BB) ♦ Relief Matt Dennis, Bradley (6 SV, 4-3, 4.12 ERA, 21 AP) ♦ SS Tyler Leffler, Bradley (.354, 2 HR, 13 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ 3B Spencer Gaa, Bradley (.294, 14 2B, 22 RBI, 15 SB)

♦ 2B Chris Godinez, Bradley (.250, 13 2B, 19 RBI, 17 SB) ♦ LHP Kyle Pauly, Southern Illinois (2 SV, 2-3, 1.43 ERA, 22 AP, 41 K) ♦ RHP Kyle Pruemer, Southern Illinois (2 SV, 2-4, 1.61 ERA, 17 AP) ♦ LHP Aaron Hauge, Southern Illinois (3-4, 3.60 ERA, 42 K, 30 BB) ♦ OF Parker Osborne, Southern Illinois (.250, 6 2B, 19 RBI)

Mountain West

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. San Diego St. (3) 40 2. New Mexico (T-1) 69 3. Nevada-Las Vegas (T-1) 35 4. Nevada (4) 131 5. Fresno St. (5) 112 6. Air Force (T-6) 223 7. San Jose St. (T-6) 195 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Bubba Derby, San Diego St. (8-4, 3.08 ERA, 100 K, 39 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ 1B Austin Byler, Nevada (.326, 14 HR, 14 2B, 47 RBI, 7 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ 3B Ty France, San Diego St. (.356, 5 HR, 18 2B, 45 RBI) ♦ OF Seby Zavala, San Diego St. (.297, 2 HR, 13 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ RHP Mark Seyler, San Diego St. (8-6, 3.90 ERA, 78 K, 36 BB) ♦ Relief Dalton Douty, San Diego St. (Trans. Cypress C.C., CA) ♦ 2B Sam Haggerty, New Mexico (.340, 2 HR, 9 2B, 38 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ OF Danny Collier, New Mexico (.353, 4 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ LHP Toller Boardman, New Mexico (San Jacinto J.C., TX, 6-4, 2.88 ERA) ♦ Relief Victor Sanchez, New Mexico (10 SV, 4-1, 2.33 ERA, 22 AP) ♦ LHP Colton Thomson, New Mexico (6-6, 3.68 ERA, 65 K, 26 BB) ♦ RHP Drew Bridges, New Mexico (4-1, 3.66 ERA, 24 K, 20 BB) ♦ OF Joey Armstrong, UNLV (.302, 4 HR, 8 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ OF Morgan Stotts, UNLV (.346, 2 HR, 12 2B, 35 RBI) ♦ 2B Justin Jones, UNLV (.270, 3 HR, 4 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ RHP Bryan Bonnell, UNLV (6-5, 3.01 ERA, 45 K, 19 BB) ♦ RHP Kenny Oakley, UNLV (6-5, 3.01 ERA, 45 K, 19 BB) ♦ Relief Adam Whitt, Nevada (7 SV, 3.71 ERA, Cape Reliever Of Yr) ♦ RHP Jason Deitrich, Nevada (3-2, 2.80 ERA, 41 K, 23 BB) ♦ OF Kewby Meyer, Nevada (.328, led USA with 27 2B in 2014)

♦ C Taylor Ward, Fresno St. (.320, 6 HR, 8 2B, 41 RBI) ♦ OF Brody Russell, Fresno St. (.236, 3 HR, 8 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ RHP Tim Borst, Fresno St. (4-5, 3.02 ERA, 65 K, 30 BB) ♦ Relief Garrett Mundell, Fresno St. (1 SV, 4-0, 1.58 ERA, 29 AP) ♦ OF Tyler Jones, Air Force (.338, 4 HR, 19 2B, 31 RBI) ♦ 2B Noah Pierce, Air Force (.296, 3 HR, 13 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ Relief Nathan Stanford, Air Force (4 SV, 2-1, 3.12 ERA, 27 AP) ♦ RHP Kalei Contrades, San Jose St. (5-2, 2.50 ERA, 52 K, 10 BB) ♦ DH Brett Bautista, San Jose St. (.313, 12 2B, 17 RBI) ♦ 2B Alec de Watteville, San Jose St. (.245, 8 2B, 21 RBI)

Northeast

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Bryant (1) 2. Sacred Heart (3) 3. Central Conn. St. (2) 4. Long Island (T-4) 5. Wagner (T-4) 6. Mount St. Mary’s (6) 7. Fairleigh Dickinson (7) Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ Relief James Cooksey, Sacred Heart (2 SV, 6-2, 1.16 ERA, 24 AP, 25 K) Projected Player Of Year ♦ OF Adam Zarozny, Bryant (.376, 5 HR, 6 2B, 17 RBI, 7 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ OF Matt Albanese, Bryant (.322, 2 HR, 16 2B, 36 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ OF Jordan Mountford, Bryant (.306, 4 HR, 8 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ 3B John Mullen, Bryant (.308, 4 HR, 11 2B, 37 RBI, 15 SB) ♦ RHP Kyle Wilcox, Bryant (3-3, 3.02 ERA, 46 K, 36 BB) ♦ LHP Trevor Lacosse, Bryant (8 SV, 4-4, 2.92 ERA, 23 AP, 42 K) ♦ SS Zack Short, Sacred Heart (.324, 10 2B, 26 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ OF Jayson Sullivan, Sacred Heart (.304, 5 HR, 11 2B, 39 RBI) ♦ LHP Jeff Stoddard, Sacred Heart (5-2, 3.45 ERA, 39 K, 25 BB) ♦ P/OF Matt Blandino, Central Conn. St. (4-4, 3.09 ERA, 38 K, 12 BB) ♦ RHP Nolan Long, Wagner (3-3, 2.98 ERA, 33 K, 25 BB) ♦ Relief Steve Bloodworth, Wagner (5 SV, 1-0, 3.77 ERA, 23 AP) ♦ C Nick Dini, Wagner (.250, 4 HR, 8 2B, 23 RBI, 18 SB) ♦ 1B Tom Mazurkiewicz, Wagner (.267, 9 2B, 18 RBI)

♦ OF Bryan Brennan, Fair. Dickinson (.285, 8 2B, 15 RBI) ♦ 2B Dylan Sprage, Fair. Dickinson (.262, 14 2B, 15 RBI) ♦ OF Riley Moonan, Fair. Dickinson (.280, 7 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ RHP Logan Frati, Fair. Dickinson (0-2, 3.34 ERA) ♦ Relief Eric Snyder, Fair. Dickinson (6 SV, 3-1, 2.93 ERA, 25 AP)

Ohio Valley

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. S.E. Missouri St. (1) 72 2. Tennessee Tech. (T-2) 116 3. Austin Peay St. (T-7) 236 4. Jacksonville St. (T-2) 92 5. Morehead St. (T-4) 184 6. SIU-Edwardsville (T-4) 245 7. Eastern Illinois (6) 149 8. Murray St. (T-7) 224 9. Belmont (9) 196 10. Eastern Kentucky (10) 212 11. Tennessee-Martin (11) 290 Projected Pitchers Of Year ♦ LHP Brock Downey, Murray St. (9-3, 2.76 ERA, 74 K, 25 BB) ♦ RHP Travis Hayes, S.E. Missouri St. (8-2, 3.23 ERA, 61 K, 33 BB) Projected Players Of Year ♦ SS Dylan Bosheers, Tennessee Tech. (.368, 11 HR, 14 2B, 56 RBI, Great D) ♦ RHP/DH Alex Robles, Austin Peay (6-2, 3.63 ERA, .349, 14 2B, 39 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ LHP Alex Winkelman, S.E. Mo. St. (6-2, 3.48 ERA, 62 K, 28 BB) ♦ LHP Joey Lucchesi, S.E. Mo. St. (Chabot College, CA, 9-3, 3.23 ERA) ♦ 1B Ryan Rippee, S.E. Mo. St. (Jefferson Coll., .274, 17 2B) ♦ 2B Jason Blum, S.E. Missouri St. (.272, 5 2B, 22 RBI, 23 SB) ♦ 3B Andy Lennington, S.E. Mo. St. (.312, 18 2B, 45 RBI) ♦ OF Jake Rowland, Tennessee Tech. (.328, 6 HR, 11 2B, 46 RBI) ♦ C Jordan Hopkins, Tennessee Tech. (.289, 10 2B, 41 RBI) ♦ RHP Evan Fraliex, Tennessee Tech.

(4-0, 3.74 ERA, 40 K, 22 BB) ♦ Relief Kyle Keatts, Tennessee Tech.

(2 SV, 4-2, 3.54 ERA, 22 AP) ♦ RHP Trevor Maloney, Tenn. Tech.

(Trans. Hillsboro C.C., FL) ♦ C Ridge Smith, Austin Peay (.310, 6 HR, 15 2B, 44 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ OF Cayce Bredlau, Austin Peay (.331, 11 2B, 21 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ RHP Jared Carkuff, Austin Peay (3-3, 4.31 ERA, 43 K, 31 BB) ♦ Relief Travis Stout, Jacksonville St. (15 SV, 3-1, 1.82 ERA, 27 AP, 29 K)

♦ OF Brandon Rawe, Morehead St. (.390, 10 HR, 21 2B, 48 RBI) ♦ 1B Kane Sweeney, Morehead St. (.309, 9 HR, 17 2B, 48 RBI) ♦ SS Robby Spencer, Morehead St. (.323, 3 HR, 15 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ Relief Craig Pearcy, Morehead St. (8 SV, 5-2, 3.88 ERA, 55 K, 20 BB) ♦ RHP Ryan Daniels, Southern Ill.-Edw. (7-0, 3.53 ERA, 69 K, 14 BB) ♦ OF Nick Lombardo, Southern Ill.-Edw. (.321, 12 2B, 21 RBI, 13 SB) ♦ 2B Chase Green, Southern Ill.-Edw. (.292, 18 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ 3B Skyler Geissinger, South. Ill.-Edw. (.263, 12 2B, 41 RBI) ♦ 2B Anthony Bayus, Murray St. (.327, 15 2B, 31 RBI) ♦ C Tyler Lawrence, Murray St. (.313, 11 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ SS Matt McGowan, Murray St. (.271, 12 2B, 34 RBI) ♦ OF Kyle Nowlin, Eastern Kentucky (.307, 6 HR, 14 2B, 26 RBI, 15 SB) ♦ 1B Ben Fisher, Eastern Kentucky (.286, 3 HR, 7 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ RHP Logan Hershenow, E. Kentucky (2-2, 3.64 ERA, 29 AP) ♦ OF Taylor Douglas, Tenn.-Martin (.341, 7 HR, 15 2B, 29 RBI, 16 SB) ♦ 3B Mike Murphy, Tenn.-Martin (Trans. Elgin C.C., .357, 18 RBI) ♦ DH Austin Taylor, Tenn.-Martin (Trans. Walters St. C.C.,TN) ♦ OF Caleb Howell, Eastern Illinois (.420, 11 2B, 32 RBI, 9 SB) ♦ INF Brant Valach, Eastern Illinois (.333, 5 HR, 6 2B, 39 RBI) ♦ DH/OF Taylor Demetre, Eastern Ill. (.309, 7 HR, 16 2B, 53 RBI) ♦ INF Mitch Gasbarro, Eastern Illinois (.307, 15 2B, 12 RBI) ♦ RHP Jake Johansmeier, Eastern Ill. (3-3, 5.94 ERA, 42 K, 30 BB)

Pacific-12

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. UCLA (9) 103 2. Oregon (4) 26 3. Stanford (T-5) 27 4. Arizona St. (3) 46 5. Oregon St. (1) 13 6. Washington (2) 25 7. Southern California (T-5) 61 8. Arizona (10) 198 9. California (8) 57 10. Washington St. (7) 134 11. Utah (11) 185 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP James Kaprielian, UCLA (7-6,2.29 ERA, 108 K, 35 BB, 106 IP) See SEC WILL BE LOADED, Page 28

Collegiate Baseball

Page 28

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

SEC Will Be Loaded With Numerous Powerhouses Continued From Page 27

Projected Player Of Year ♦ SS Kevin Newman, Arizona (2-time batting champ Cape Cod League, .380 last summer, MVP, terrific defense.)

Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ Relief David Berg, UCLA (11 SV, 3-2, 1.50 ERA, 31 AP) ♦ SS Kevin Kramer, UCLA (Medical redshirt last season) ♦ RHP Cody Poteet, UCLA (3-5, 4.46 ERA, 49 K, 16 BB) ♦ Grant Watson, UCLA (4-9, 3.80 ERA, 71 K, 26 BB) ♦ OF Ty Moore, UCLA (.294, 2 HR, 14 2B, 24 RBI) ♦ LHP Cole Irvin, Oregon (Tommy John surgery last season) ♦ Relief Garrett Cleavinger, Oregon (2 SV, 3-2, 3.34 ERA, 35 AP) ♦ C Shaun Chase, Oregon (.283, 14 HR, 9 2B, 37 RBI) ♦ 1B Mitchell Tolman, Oregon (.315, 2 HR, 18 2B, 49 RBI) ♦ UT Scott Heineman, Oregon (1-1, 2.52 ERA, 27 K, .171 BA) ♦ RHP Cal Quantrill, Stanford (7-5, 2.68 ERA, 98 K, 34 BB) ♦ LHP John Hochstatter, Stanford (10-3, 3.36 ERA, 38 K, 80 1/3 IP) ♦ RHP Brett Hanewich, Stanford (4-4, 3.17 ERA, 49 K, 31 BB) ♦ OF Zach Hoffpauir, Stanford (.324, 7 HR, 35 RBI) ♦ LHP Brett Lilek, Arizona St. (4-5, 2.68 ERA, 79 K, 39 BB) ♦ LHP Ryan Kellogg, Arizona St. (8-3, 3.76 ERA, 66 K, 22 BB) ♦ RHP Darin Gillies, Arizona St. (3-4, 4.90 ERA, 50 K, 35 BB) ♦ Relief Ryan Burr, Arizona St. (12 SV, 3-3, 3.27 ERA, 56 K, 38 BB) ♦ 3B/1B Dalton DiNatale, Arizona St. (.249, 3 HR, 12 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ OF Johnny Sewald, Arizona St. (.3-05, 7 2B, 19 RBI, 16 SB) ♦ DH R.J. Ybarra, Arizona St. (.274, 4 HR, 10 2B, 47 RBI) ♦ RHP Andrew Moore, Oregon St. (6-5, 2.77 ERA, 68 K, 26 BB) ♦ OF Jeff Hendrix, Oregon St. (.351, 2 HR, 11 2B, 32 RBI) ♦ 1B Gabe Clark, Oregon St. (.280, 10 2B, 34 RBI) ♦ RHP Kyle Davis, Southern Calif.

(3-4, 9 SV, 1.12 ERA, 26 AP, 57 K) ♦ DH Jeremy Martinez, Southern Calif. (.297, 1 HR, 10 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ OF Timmy Robinson, Southern Calif. (.236, 12 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ 3B/Relief Bobby Dalbec, Arizona (.266, 9 2B, 30 RBI, 3-5, 2.13 ERA) ♦ RHP Cody Hamlin, Arizona (5-5, 3.94 ERA, 60 K, 18 BB) ♦ RHP Robby Mendel, Arizona (Trans. from Texas Christian) ♦ 2B Scott Kingery, Arizona (.354, 11 2B, 26 RBI, 19 SB) ♦ RHP Ryan Mason, California (7-1, 3.04 ERA, 32 K, 21 BB) ♦ RHP Daulton Jefferies, California (2-8, 3.45 ERA, 58 K, 21 BB) ♦ OF Devin Pearson, California (.190, 3 2B, 13 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ RHP Tyler Davis, Washington (11-2, 1.60 ERA, 62 K, 15 BB) ♦ Relief Troy Rallings, Washington (9 SV, 5-1, 2.30 ERA, 34 K, 9 BB) ♦ RHP Josh Frendendall, Washington (Injured in 2014, closer 2 years ago) ♦ OF Braden Bishop, Washington (.304, 8 2B, 27 RBI, 21 SB) ♦ LHP Joe Pistorese, Washington St. (4-3, 3.31 ERA, 48 K, 27 BB) ♦ Relief Ian Hamilton, Washington St. (15 SV, 2-2, 2.70 ERA, 28 AP) ♦ OF Ben Roberts, Washington St. (.289, 5 2B, 21 RBI) ♦ 2B Kody Davis, Utah (.237, 9 2B, 19 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ RHP Dalton Carroll, Utah (1-5, 5.31 ERA, 38 K, 11 BB) ♦ RHP Bret Helton, Utah (2-4, 1 SV, 4.99 ERA, 35 K)

Patriot League

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Bucknell (T-1) 106 2. Lehigh (3) 230 3. Navy (4) 266 4. Army (T-1) 148 5. Lafayette (5) 240 6. Holy Cross (6) 215 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ LHP Anthony Parenti, Navy (8-3, 1.52 ERA, 74 K, 17 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ OF Justin Pacchioli, Lehigh (.362, 3 2B, 7 RBI, 16 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ 2B Joe Ogren, Bucknell (.309, 9 2B, 28 RBI) ♦ OF Anthony Gingerelli, Bucknell (.309, 5 HR, 7 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ Of Brett Smith, Bucknell (.288, 1 2B, 15 RBI) ♦ C Jon Mayer, Bucknell (.246, 2 HR, 8 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ RHP Bryson Hough, Bucknell (8-4, 4.22 ERA, 44 K, 21 BB) ♦ RHP Kevin Long, Lehigh (4-5, 3.21 ERA, 44 K, 14 BB) ♦ 2B Mike Garzillo, Lehigh (.308, 12 2B, 33 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ SS John Elson, Lehigh (.259, 9 2B, 25 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ OF Robert Currie, Navy (.359, 7 2B, 24 RBI, 26 SB) ♦ SS Travis Blue, Navy (.284, 5 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ Relief Andrew Bartek, Navy (3 SV, 2-0, 2.48 ERA, 26 K) ♦ OF Mark McCants, Army

SS DANSBY SWANSON

…Steals 22 bases, hits 27 doubles for Vanderbilt (.226, 6 2B, 17 RBI) ♦ SS Alex Jepsen, Army (.224, 3 HR, 11 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ 3B Harold Earls, Army (.215, 3 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ 1B/OF Alex Woinski, Lafayette (.326, 12 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ 3B Tyler Hudson, Lafayette (.259, 2 HR, 2 2B, 19 RBI) ♦ RHP David Bednar, Lafayette (1-4, 4.15 ERA, 48 K, 13 BB) ♦ C Connor Perry, Holy Cross (.296, 3 HR, 5 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ OF Evan Ocello, Holy Cross (.329, 3 HR, 10 2B, 13 RBI, 24 SB) ♦ DH Jack St. Clair, Holy Cross (.282, 12 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ RHP Ben White, Holy Cross (0-5, 3.18 ERA, 42 K, 20 BB)

Southeastern

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI (Eastern Division) 1. Vanderbilt (3) 2 2. Florida (1) 8 3. South Carolina (2) 15 4. Tennessee (5) 51 5. Kentucky (4) 20 6. Georgia (6) 58 7. Missouri (7) 139 (Western Division) 1. Louisiana St. (2) 11 2. Mississippi St. (3) 28 3. Arkansas (4) 29 4. Mississippi (1) 4 5. Alabama (5) 24 6. Texas A&M (6) 31 7. Auburn (7) 73 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt (7-1, 10 SV, 1.98 ERA, 95 K, 41 BB) Projected Players Of Year ♦ SS Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt (.333, 3 HR, 27 2B, 34 RBI, 22 SB) ♦ SS Alex Bregman, Louisiana St. (.316, 6 HR, 16 2B, 47 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ OF Christin Stewart, Tennessee (.330, 5 HR, 19 2B, 39 RBI, 7 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ RHP Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt (12-2, 2.64 ERA, 111 K, 31 BB) ♦ RHP Tyler Ferguson, Vanderbilt (8-4,2.69 ERA, 65 K, 30 BB) ♦ Relief Hayden Stone, Vanderbilt (3 SV, 4-0, 1.71 ERA, 80 K, 14 BB) ♦ OF Bryan Reynolds, Vanderbilt (.338, 4 HR, 24 2B, 54 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ OF Rhett Wiseman, Vanderbilt (.277, 18 2B, 30 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ 1B Zander Wiel, Vanderbilt (.260, 5 HR, 14 2B, 44 RBI, 13 SB) ♦ LHP Jared Poche, Louisiana St. (9-3, 2.45 ERA, 52 K, 26 BB) ♦ RHP Alex Lange, Louisiana St. (Lee’s Summit H.S., MO, All-American) ♦ RHP Jake Godfrey, Louisiana St. (Providence H.S., IL, 21st round pick) ♦ OF Andrew Stevenson, Louisiana St. (.335, 7 2B, 32 RBI) ♦ DH Kade Scivicque, Louisiana St. (.304, 7 HR, 9 2B, 31 RBI) ♦ OF Mark Laird, Louisiana St. (.291, 10 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ SS Richie Martin, Florida (.265, 11 2B, 27 RBI, 18 SB) ♦ 1B Peter Alonso, Florida (.264, 4 HR, 6 2B, 32 RBI) ♦ RHP Logan Shore, Florida (7-4, 2.16 ERA, 68 K, 20 BB) ♦ LHP/DH A.J. Puk, Florida (5-2, 3.19 ERA, .222, 6 RBI) ♦ RHP Eric Hanhold, Florida (4-3, 4.20 ERA, 36 K, 18 BB) ♦ LHP Ross Mitchell, Mississippi St. (8-5, 2.53 ERA, 49 K, 30 BB) ♦ RHP Trevor Fitts, Mississippi St. (5-3, 2.58 ERA, 58 K, 15 BB) ♦ SS Seth Heck, Mississippi St. (.299, 8 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ 1B Wes Rea, Mississippi St. (.245, 5 HR, 9 2B, 41 RBI) ♦ 2B Max Schrock, South Carolina (.299, 5 HR, 5 2B, 20 RBI) ♦ 1B Kyle Martin, South Carolina (.336, 5 HR, 11 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ 3B D.C. Arendas, South Carolina

(.271, 4 HR, 6 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ RHP Will Crowe, South Carolina (8-3, 2.75 ERA, 59 K, 19 BB) ♦ LHP Jack Wynkoop, South Carolina (7-6, 2.86 ERA, 58 K, 10 BB) ♦ Relief Taylor Widener, South Carolina (3-0, 1.79 ERA, 38 K, 21 AP) ♦ Relief Cody Mincey, South Carolina (1 SV, 5-0, 1.04 ERA, 29 AP) ♦ RHP Trey Killian, Arkansas (4-9, 2.30 ERA, 62 K, 18 BB) ♦ RHP Zach Jackson, Arkansas (24 AP, 2.53 ERA, 42 K) ♦ Relief Jacob Stone, Arkansas (4 SV, 4-0, 0.94 ERA, 24 AP ) ♦ OF Andrew Benintendi, Arkansas (.276, 8 2B, 27 RBI, 17 SB) ♦ OF Joe Serrano, Arkansas (.289, 14 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ RHP Kyle Cody, Kentucky (4-0, 5 SV, 2.84 ERA, 20 K) ♦ Relief Spencer Jack, Kentucky (4 SV, 4-1, 1.16 ERA, 31 K, 8 BB) ♦ RHP Dustin Beggs, Kentucky (Georgia Perimeter JC, 17th rd. pick) ♦ OF Ka’ai Tom, Kentucky (.328, 3 HR, 13 2B, 41 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ OF Kyle Barrett, Kentucky (.253, 6 2B, 29 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ 2B JaVon Shelby, Kentucky (.250, 4 HR, 6 2B, 21 RBI) ♦ 2B Nick Senzel, Tennessee (.315, 12 2B, 39 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ SS A.J. Simcox, Tennessee (.270, 1 2B, 13 RBI, 13 SB) ♦ LHP Andy Cox, Tennessee (5-1, 2 SV, 2.44 ERA, 70 K, 33 BB) ♦ RHP Hunter Martin, Tennessee (4-4, 3.25 ERA, 43 K, 25 BB) ♦ LHP Christian Trent, Mississippi (9-0, 2.05 ERA, 86 K, 20 BB) ♦ Relief Scott Weathersby, Mississippi (2 SV, 4-1, 2.13 ERA, 20 AP, 51 K) ♦ LHP Wyatt Short, Mississippi (3 SV, 3-3, 2.59 ERA, 23 AP, 34 K) ♦ 1B Sikes Orvis, Mississippi (.294, 14 HR, 14 2B, 53 RBI) ♦ OF J.B. Woodman, Mississippi (.298, 2 HR, 10 2B, 20 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ SS Mikey White, Alabama (.300, 7 HR, 9 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ 2B Kyle Overstreet, Alabama (.278, 4 HR, 6 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ OF Georgie Salem, Alabama (.282, 2 HR, 11 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ LHP Taylor Guilbeau, Alabama (1-1, 3.65 ERA, 19 K, 17 BB) ♦ Relief Thomas Burrows, Alabama (11 SV, 4-2, 2.15 ERA, 24 AP, 34 K) ♦ RHP Will Carter, Alabama (Trans. Walters St. C.C.) ♦ OF Nick Banks, Texas A&M (.327, 10 2B, 26 RBI, 7 SB, Tm. USA) ♦ 3B Logan Nottebrok, Texas A&M (.250, 8 HR, 7 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ RHP Grayson Long, Texas A&M (6-2, 3.12 ERA, 55 K, 28 BB) ♦ LHP Tyler Stubblefield, Texas A&M (4-2, 3.81 ERA, 61 K, 22 BB) ♦ Relief A.J. Minter, Texas A&M (2 SV, 3-0, 1.85 ERA, 26 AP, 24 K) ♦ RHP Robert Tyler, Georgia (6-4, 2.68 ERA, 64 K, 22 BB) ♦ OF Stephen Wrenn, Georgia (.254, 2 2B, 20 RBI, 16 SB) ♦ RHP/OF Sean McLaughlin, Georgia (Injured last season) ♦ LHP/1B Jared Walsh, Georgia (Injured last season) ♦ OF Anfernee Grier, Auburn (.255, 8 2B, 11 RBI, 7 SB) ♦ OF Jordan Ebert, Auburn (.353, 5 2B, 29 RBI, 9 SB) ♦ RHP Keegan Thompson, Auburn (5-3, 2.01 ERA, 73 K, 23 BB) ♦ RHP Trey Wingenter, Auburn (1-1, 3.33 ERA, 22 K, 9 BB) ♦ RHP Alec Rash, Missouri (0-0, 2.04 ERA, 17.6 IP, 16 K) ♦ RHP Tanner Houck, Missouri (Collinsville H.S., IL, 12th round pick) ♦ Relief Breckin Williams, Missouri (2 SV, 3-1, 2.52 ERA, 26 AP, 23 K) ♦ 1B Logan Pearson, Missouri (.263, 6 2B, 21 RBI)

Southern

Projected Order Of Finish

Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Mercer (NA) 47 2. Samford (4) 71 3. Western Carolina (1) 54 4. Virginia Military Inst. (NA) 123 5. East Tennessee St. (NA) 187 6. Wofford (5) 188 7. Furman (8) 178 8. N.C. Greensboro (9) 209 9. The Citadel (10) 192 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ Relief Andres Gracia, Samford (14 SV, 2-1, 0.79 ERA, 30 AP, 38 K) Projected Players Of Year ♦ 1B Jacob Hoyle, Western Carolina (.332, 14 HR, 11 2B, 53 RBI) ♦ OF Heath Quinn, Samford (.319, 9 HR, 20 2B, 48 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ OF Kyle Lewis, Mercer (.281,2 HR, 3 2B, 17 RBI) ♦ C Charlie Madden, Mercer (.269, 3 HR, 12 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ RHP Eric Nyquist, Mercer (8-1, 3.12 ERA, 49 K, 17 BB) ♦ Relief Dimitri Kourtis, Mercer (5 SV, 5-1, 1.15 ERA, 16 AP, 39 K) ♦ Relief Ben Lumsden, Mercer (6 SV, 2-3, 2.16 ERA, 26 AP, 31 K) ♦ OF T.J. Dixon, Samford (.260, 10 2B, 20 RBI, 19 SB) ♦ Of Brandon Powell, Samford (.282, 3 HR, 11 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ RHP Alex Ledford, Samford (11-2, 4.70 ERA, 64 K, 32 BB) ♦ Relief Parker Curry, Samford (2 SV, 7-2, 3.29 ERA, 56 K, 16 BB) ♦ 2B Bradley Strong, Western Carolina (6 HR, 20 2B, 6 3B, 53 RBI, 20 SB) ♦ LHP Bryan Sammons, W. Carolina (7-2, 2 SV, 4.50 ERA, 57 K, 36 BB) ♦ Relief Tyler Powell, Western Carolina (13 SV, 2-0, 1.44 ERA, 22 AP, 23 K) ♦ C Matt Winn, Va. Military Inst. (.204, 6 2B, 15 RBI) ♦ OF Brandon Angus, Va. Military Inst. (.333, 9 2B, 21 RBI, 29 SB) ♦ 2B Jordan Tarsovich, Va. Military Inst. (.293, 3 HR, 13 2B, 24 RBI, 20 SB) ♦ RHP Andrew Woods, Va. Military Inst.

(5-2, 2.70 ERA, 71 K, 25 BB) ♦ Relief Taylor Edens, Va. Military Inst.

(2 SV, 3-0, 2.81 ERA, 21 AP, 25 K) ♦ 3B Chris Cook, East Tenn. St. (.269, 9 2B, 14 RBI, 6 SB) ♦ SS Jordan Sanford, East Tenn. St. (.367, 4 2B, 17 RBI) ♦ OF Jeremy Taylor, East Tenn. St. (.277, 3 HR, 13 2B, 27 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ 1B Kevin Phillips, East Tenn. St. (.261, 3 HR, 7 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ RHP Jimmy Nesselt, East Tenn. St. (7-5, 1 SV, 4.06 ERA, 62 K, 25 BB) ♦ Relief Will Stillman, Wofford (4 SV, 5-2, 1.55 ERA, 60 K, 26 BB) ♦ RHP Matt Milburn, Wofford (4-6, 3.95 ERA, 77 K, 27 BB) ♦ 1B James Plaisted, Wofford (.250, 7 HR, 11 2B, 42 RBI) ♦ 3B Conor Clancey, Wofford (.230, 6 HR, 9 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ 2B Hunter King, N.C. Greensboro (.382, 3 HR, 18 2B, 2 3B, 46 RBI) ♦ OF Eric Kalbfleisch, N.C. Greensboro (.317, 5 HR, 9 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ RHP Ryan Clark, N.C. Greensboro (3-6, 3.68 ERA, 68 K, 22 BB) ♦ Relief Skylar Hunter, The Citadel (15 SV, 2-4, 1.67 ERA, 29 AP, 44 K) ♦ LHP James Reeves, The Citadel (3-2, 2.70 ERA, 36 K, 10 BB) ♦ SS Johnathan Stokes, The Citadel (.254, 2 HR, 10 2B, 36 RBI)

Southland

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Sam Houston St. (1) 34 2. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (T-3) 114 3. Southeastern Louisiana (5) 67 4. Nicholls St. (2) 133 5. Northwestern St. (T-3) 117 6. McNeese St. (T-6) 138 7. Lamar (8) 160 8. Central Arkansas (T-6) 109 9. Houston Baptist (10) 201 10. New Orleans (14) 278 11. Incarnate Word (11) 267 12. Stephen F. Austin (12) 166 13. Abilene Christian (13) 287 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Sam Odom, Sam Houston St. (10-2, 2.61 ERA, 38 K, 33 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ C Jameson Fisher, S.E. Louisiana (.389, 17 2B, 39 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ Relief Ryan Brinley, Sam Houston St. (8 SV, 3-2, 2.74 ERA, 21 AP, 36 K) ♦ LHP Andrew Godail, Sam Houston St. (3-1, 2.41 ERA, 31 K, 22 BB) ♦ LHP Logan Boyd, Sam Houston St. (88-92 mph FB, quality LHP) ♦ RHP Dylan Ebbs, Sam Houston St. (3-2, 2.77 ERA, 23 K, 15 BB) ♦ OF Colt Atwood, Sam Houston St. (.306, 10 2B, 40 RBI) ♦ RHP Matt Danton, Texas A&M-CC (7-4, 3.74 ERA, 64 K, 22 BB) ♦ Relief Jacob Dorris, Texas A&M-CC (8 SV, 3-2, 4.21 ERA, 57 K, 16 BB) ♦ OF KyleDanford, Texas A&M-CC (.289, 7 2B, 35 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ OF Jordan Lee, Texas A&M-CC (.309, 8 2B, 29 RBI, 18 SB) ♦ OF Tyler Ware, Texas A&M-CC (.287, 6 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ 3B Brett Hoffman, S.E. Louisiana (.312, 17 2B, 41 RBI) ♦ RHP Tate Scioneaux, S.E. Louisiana (7-6, 3.02 ERA, 77 K, 20 BB) ♦ Relief Mason Klotz, S.E. Louisiana (5 SV, 2-0, 1.32 ERA, 21 AP) ♦ P Jake Johnson, S.E. Louisiana (Neosho County C.C., 8-4, 3.89 ERA) ♦ RHP/1B Marc Frazier, Nicholls St.

(2-0, 1 SV, 0.92 ERA, .219, 4 2B) ♦ LHP Brant Borne, Nicholls St. (8-3, 2.97 ERA, 81K, 35 BB) ♦ C Christian Correa, Nicholls St. (.235, 6 2B, 18 RBI) ♦ OF Bret Underwood, Northwestern St. (.289, 10 2B, 17 RBI, 18 SB) ♦ 3B Chase Daughdrill, Northwestern St. (.324, 2 HR, 9 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ OF Cort Brinson, Northwestern St. (.294, 12 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ OF Nick Heath, Northwestern St. (.261, 1 2B, 11 RBI, 17 SB) ♦ RHP Adam Oller, Northwestern St. (6-2, 2.44 ERA, 58 K, 20 BB) ♦ OF Andrew Guillotte, McNeese St. (.316, 12 2B, 17 RBI, 20 SB) ♦ OF Lucas Quary, McNeese St. (.283, 7 HR, 7 2B, 28 RBI) ♦ RHP Kaleb Fontenot, McNeese St. (6-2, 2.14 ERA, 49 K, 20 BB) ♦ Relief Steven O’Bryant, McNeese St. (5 SV, 3-5, 3.55 ERA, 48 K, 25 BB) ♦ 1B Brandon Provost, Lamar (.301, 9 2B, 31 RBI) ♦ OF Jacoby Middleton, Lamar (.283, 14 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ RHP Billy Love, Lamar ♦ Relief Collin Chapman, Lamar ♦ OF Zach Nehrir, Houston Baptist (.249, 9 2B, 23 RBI) ♦ 3B/RHP Curtis Jones, Houston Baptist (.361, 5 2B, 22 RBI, 4-5, 3.64 ERA) ♦ Relief Dylan Zarosky, Houston Baptist (6 SV, 3-1, 2.35 ERA, 19 AP, 23 K) ♦ SS Samuel Capielano, New Orleans (.341, 9 2B, 19 RBI) ♦ OF Hezekiah Randolph, New Orleans (.292, 4 HR, 11 2B, 31 RBI) ♦ LHP Jordan Priddle, New Orleans (Trans. Delgado C.C., LA) ♦ Relief Kevin Kelleher, New Orleans (Weatherford JC, TX) ♦ RHP Geno Encina, Incarnate Word (7-7, 2.64 ERA, 62 K, 15 BB) ♦ OF Jesse Hoover, Incarnate Word (.309, 16 2B, 36 RBI)

Southwestern

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI (Eastern Division) 1. Alabama St. (1) 167 2. Alabama A&M (2) 289 3. Jackson St. (4) 251 4. Alcorn St. (3) 291 5. Mississippi Valley St. (5) 300 (Western Division) 1. Arkansas-Pine Bluff (1) 280 2. Texas Southern (2) 282 3. Prairie View A&M (3) 296 4. Grambling St. (4) 299 5. Southern (5) 301 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Joseph Camacho, Alabama St. (10-1, 2.44 ERA, 63 K, 25 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ OF Waldyvan Estrada, Alabama St. (.347, 6 HR, 12 2B, 60 RBI, 7 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ OF Cesar Rivera, Alabama St. (.271, 4 HR, 6 2B, 42 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ P T.J. Renda, Alabama St. (5-5, 4.10 ERA, 72 K, 17 BB) ♦ OF Andrew Utterback, Alabama A&M (.398, 5 HR, 12 2B, 42 RBI, 6 SB) ♦ INF Julio Nunez, Alabama A&M (.332, 8 HR, 16 2B, 45 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ 1B Austin Hulsey, Alabama A&M (.356, 5 HR, 15 2B, 37 RBI) ♦ OF Brandyn Crutcher, Ala. A&M (.321, 4 2B, 18 RBI, 18 SB) ♦ 1B/LHP Andre Davis, Ark.-Pine Bluff (.289, 2 HR, 6 2B, 24 RBI) ♦ RHP Billy Olson, Ark.-Pine Bluff (2-2, 6.29 ERA, 16 K, 12 BB) ♦ LHP C.J. Bahn, Ark.-Pine Bluff ♦ RHP Blake Estep, Ark.-Pine Bluff ♦ 3B Zach Welz, Texas Southern (.300, 2 HR, 8 2B, 34 RBI) ♦ SS Robert Garza, Texas Southern (.243, 6 HR, 6 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ DH Jerry Ford, Texas Southern (.317, 5 2B, 15 RBI, 27 SB) ♦ RHP Frank Cruz, Texas Southern (4-2, 2.21 ERA, 33 K, 14 BB) ♦ RHP Seth Oliver, Texas Southern (Cy-Woods H.S., Houston, TX) ♦ Tilur Smith, Jackson St. (.331, 3 HR, 17 2B, 27 RBI, 5 SB) ♦ 3B Melvin Rodriguez, Jackson St. (.307, 3 HR, 11 2B, 46 RBI, 5 SB) ♦ RHP Alexander Juday, Jackson St. (3-7, 4 SV, 3.97 ERA, 68 K, 26 BB) ♦ LHP Vincent Anthonia, Jackson St. (1-0, 90.00 ERA, 6 IP, 2 K) ♦ RHP/INF Cedric Walker, Alcorn St. ♦ OF Earl Burl, Alcorn St. (.259, 4 HR, 8 2B, 19 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ OF Scottie Peavey, Alcorn St. (.382, 3 HR, 12 2B, 20 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ P Daniel Belmont, Alcorn St. (0-7, 14 K, 20 BB) ♦ INF Yariel Medina, Grambling (.335, 3 HR, 9 2B, 32 RBI) ♦ OF Angel Peguero, Grambling (Trans. New Mexico Military Inst.) ♦ OF Diamyn Hall, Grambling (.324, 2 HR, 6 2B, 21 RBI) ♦ C Roger Diaz, Grambling (.241, 2 2B, 19 RBI) ♦ OF D.J. Wallace, Southern (.309, 9 HR, 11 2B, 37 RBI) ♦ C Jose De LaTorre, Southern (.330, 5 HR, 5 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ RHP Santos Saldivar, Southern (3-0, 2.06 ERA, 49 K, 23 BB) ♦ OF Lance Jones, Southern (.350, 5 2B, 11 RBI, 12 SB) ♦ OF Cody Den Beste, Prairie View (.309, 3 HR, 10 2B, 30 RBI, 8 SB)

Summit

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish)

2014 RPI

See SAN DIEGO, LOYOLA, Page 30

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Collegiate Baseball

Page 29

Collegiate Baseball

Page 30

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

San Diego, Loyola Marymount Stacked In West Coast Continued From Page 28

1. Nebraska-Omaha (1) 177 2. Oral Roberts (NA) 95 3. South Dakota St. (2) 241 4. North Dakota St. (3) 248 5. Western Illinois (T-4) 234 6. IUPU-Ft. Wayne (T-4) 279 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ RHP Tyler Fox, Nebraska-Omaha (9-1, 2.29 ERA, 57 K, 17 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ 2B Clayton Taylor, Nebraska-Omaha (.342, 9 HR, 17 2B, 48 RBI, 4 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ RHP Zach Williamsen, Neb.-Omaha (3-3, 3.47 ERA, 39 K, 16 BB) ♦ LHP Sam Murphy, Nebraska-Omaha (3-1, 1 SV, 2.86 ERA, 22 K, 16 BB) ♦ RHP Guillermo Trujillo, Oral Roberts (3-4, 3.11 ERA, 63 K, 25 BB) ♦ RHP Kurt Giller, Oral Roberts (3-4, 4.61 ERA, 54 K, 25 BB) ♦ OF Logan Domenico, Oral Roberts (.284, 14 2B, 19 RBI) ♦ 2B Matt Brandy, Oral Roberts (.277, 3 HR, 8 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ LHP Chris Anderson, South Dakota St. (1-4, 2.48 ERA, 55 K, 21 BB) ♦ RHP Chad Hodges, South Dakota St. (8-5, 3.00 ERA, 46 K, 24 BB) ♦ Relief J.D. Moore, South Dakota St. (8 SV, 4-3, 3.07 ERA, 27 K, 23 BB) ♦ OF Zach Coppola, South Dakota St. (.288, 7 2B, 17 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ INF Matt Johnson, South Dakota St. (.284, 9 2B, 23 RBI) ♦ OF Paul Jacobson, South Dakota St. (.278, 6 2B, 17 RBI) ♦ INF Cody Sharrow, South Dakota St. (.253, 7 2B, 23 RBI) ♦ RHP David Ernst, North Dakota St. (5-5, 3.60 ERA, 43 K, 30 BB) ♦ LHP Parker Trewin, North Dakota St. (7-3, 2.57 ERA, 68 K, 28 BB) ♦ RHP Reed Pfannenstein, N. Dak. St. (4-1, 2.86 ERA, 28 K, 17 BB) ♦ Relief Trevor Jaunich, N. Dakota St. (7 SV, 1-3, 3.18 ERA, 18 AP) ♦ RHP Nick Milligan, Western Illinois (4-1, 4.50 ERA, 21 K, 16 BB) ♦ Relief Tyler Owings, Western Illinois (5 SV, 3-1, 3.94 ERA, 25 K, 12 BB) ♦ LHP Tom Constand, Western Illinois (2-8, 5.40 ERA, 47 K, 20 BB) ♦ C Adam McGinnis, Western Illinois (.280, 2 2B, 19 RBI, 14 SB) ♦ 3B Chris Tschida, Western Illinois (.277, 7 2B, 24 RBI)

Sun Belt

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Louisiana-Lafayette (1) 6 2. Texas St. (4) 93 3. Troy (T-6) 193 4. South Alabama (T-6) 153 5. Texas-Arlington (2) 97 6. Arkansas St. (3) 76 7. Georgia Southern (NA) 86 8. Arkansas-Little Rock (T-8) 156 9. Georgia St. (T-8) 170 10. Louisiana-Monroe (T-8) 156 11. Appalachian St. (NA) 169 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ Relief Marc Skinner, Troy (5 SV, 6-1, 1.52 ERA, 70 K, 16 BB) Projected Player Of Year

♦ SS Blake Trahan, La.-Lafayette (.355, 4 HR, 12 2B, 49 RBI, 15 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ OF Dylan Butler, Louisiana-Lafayette (.298, 6 HR, 11 2B, 31 RBI) ♦ 1B Greg Davis, Louisiana-Lafayette (.314, 3 HR, 5 2B, 23 RBI) ♦ 2B Stefan Trosclair, La.-Lafayette (LSU-Eunice J.C., All-American) ♦ LHP Gunner Leger, La.-Lafayette (Barbe H.S., LA, All-American) ♦ Relief Reagan Bazar, La.-Lafayette (6 SV, 4-0, 2.27 ERA, 25 AP, 20 K) ♦ RHP Lucas Humpal, Texas St. (4-6, 3.76 ERA, 82 K, 27 BB) ♦ Relief Cory Geisler, Texas St. (3-1 , 1.97 ERA, 18 AP, 22 K) ♦ OF Granger Studdard, Texas St. (.270, 6 HR, 5 2B, 35 RBI) ♦ DH David Hall, Troy (.344, 9 HR, 17 2B, 48 RBI) ♦ OF Jo-El Bennett, Troy (.269, 6 HR, 9 2B, 25 RBI) ♦ 1B Trevin Hall, Troy (.263, 7 HR, 9 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ OF Clay Holcomb, Troy (.262, 10 2B, 9 RBI, 26 SB) ♦ 2B Nick Masonia, Troy (.243, 6 HR, 10 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ RHP Cory Childress, Troy (Fairhope H.S., AL, All-State) ♦ RHP Grant Bennett, Troy (Wallace St. J.C., AL, All-Region) ♦ OF/LHP Cole Billingsley, S. Alabama (Out for 2014 season with TJ surgery) ♦ OF Cole Gleason, South Alabama (.333, 3 HR, 12 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ RHP Mike Dolloff, South Alabama (Trans. Northwest Florida State C.C.) ♦ LHP Shane McKinley, South Alabama (S.W. Mississippi C.C.) ♦ RHP Justin Flores, South Alabama (Middle Georgia Coll., 4-0, 2.11 ERA) ♦ LHP Zach Hobbs, Texas-Arlington (4-2, 4.62 ERA, 16 K, 11 BB) ♦ Relief Chad Nack, Texas-Arlington (4 SV, 1-1, 1.26 ERA, 26 AP, 21 K) ♦ INF Darien McLemore, Tex.-Arlington (.301, 4 HR, 8 2B, 31 RBI) ♦ DH Zach George, Arkansas St. (Injured last season) ♦ C Stuart Levy, Arkansas St. (.288, 2 HR, 19 2B, 28 RBI) ♦ 1B Matt Burgess, Arkansas St. (.313, 4 HR, 13 2B, 58 RBI) ♦ OF Austin Baker, Arkansas St. (.265, 6 HR, 13 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ RHP David Owen, Arkansas St. (5-6, 4.19 ERA, 76 K, 30 BB) ♦ Relief Tyler Zuber, Arkansas St. (4 SV, 2-1, 2.34 ERA, 24 AP, 33 K) ♦ OF Aaron Mizell, Georgia Southern (.309, 13 HR, 13 2B, 53 RBI) ♦ C Chase Griffin, Georgia Southern (.258, 3 HR, 15 2B, 41 RBI) ♦ SS Dalton Busby, Georgia Southern (.274, 4 HR, 14 2B, 43 RBI) ♦ RHP Chris Brown, Georgia Southern (Chattahoochie Valley C.C., 1.12 ERA) ♦ Relief Jason Richman, Georgia So. (3 SV, 5-1, 1.20 ERA, 47 AP, 78 K) ♦ SS/RHP Tanner Rockwell, Ark.-L.R. (.321, 7 HR, 16 2B, 43 RBI, 8 SV, 1.59) ♦ 1B Justin Steelmon, Ark.-Little Rock (.242, 2 HR, 4 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ C Drew Merten, Ark.-Little Rock (.282, 2 HR, 9 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ RHP Cameron Allen, Ark.-Little Rock (5-6, 4.07 ERA, 54 K, 29 BB)

♦ RHP Sam Thoele, Ark.-Little Rock (1-3, 3.70 ERA, 41 K) ♦ 3B Matt Rose, Georgia St. (.312, 11 HR, 12 2B, 34 RBI) ♦ 2B Caden Bailey, Georgia St. (.283, 14 2B, 26 RBI) ♦ RHP Nathan Bates, Georgia St. (1-3,. 4.76 ERA, 49 K, 25 BB) ♦ Relief Kevin Burgee, Georgia St. (8 SV, 3-1, 2.97 ERA, 24 AP, 25 K) ♦ 3B Keelin Rasch, Louisiana-Monroe (.289, 4 HR, 16 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ OF Justin Stawychny, La.-Monroe (.279, 7 HR, 11 2B, 37 RBI) ♦ 2B Dillon Dobson, Appalachian St. (.299, 11 HR, 11 2B, 30 RBI) ♦ OF Jaylin Davis, Appalachian St. (.280, 4 HR, 7 2B, 38 RBI) ♦ 3B Michael Pierson, Appalachian St. (.343, 7 HR, 16 2B, 33 RBI) ♦ LHP Jeffrey Springs, Appalachian St. (2-5, 5.06 ERA, 76 K, 31 BB) ♦ Relief Robert Whaley, Appalachian St. (3 SV, 3-1, 1.98 ERA, 20 AP, 24 K)

West Coast

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. San Diego (4) 65 2. Loyola Marymount (T-2) 119 3. Pepperdine (1) 22 4. Gonzaga (T-2) 143 5. Santa Clara (5) 174 6. Pacific (6) 147 7. Brigham Young (7) 189 8. San Francisco (8) 155 9. St. Mary’s (9) 242 10. Portland (10) 270 Projected Pitcher Of Year ♦ Relief Reece Karalus, Santa Clara (11 SV, 6-2, 2.25 ERA, 34 AP, 46 K) ♦ RHP Kolton Mahoney, Brigham Young (Pitcher of Year Cape Cod League) Projected Players Of Year ♦ SS David Fletcher, Loyola Marymount (.329, 6 2B, 28 RBI, 17 SB) ♦ OF Gio Brusa, Pacific (Top Position Player Cape Cod League, .322, 6 HR, 20 RBI) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ RHP David Hill, San Diego (Orange Coast CC, 11-1, 1.67 ERA) ♦ LHP Jacob Hill, San Diego (Orange Coast CC, 11-0, 1.27 ERA) ♦ LHP P.J. Conlon, San Diego (7-2, 4.35 ERA, 60 K, 17 BB) ♦ RHP Gary Cornish, San Diego (Palomar, 19th round pick by Dodgers) ♦ SS Kyle Holder, San Diego (.298, 3 HR, 7 2B, 29 RBI) ♦ OF Austin Bailey, San Diego (.328, 11 2B, 32 RBI) ♦ C Jesse Jenner, San Diego (.348, 3 HR, 7 2B, 35 RBI) ♦ OF Austin Miller, Loyola Marymount (.374, 10 2B, 18 RBI, 25 SB) ♦ 1B Tanner Donnels, Loyola Mary. (.321, 14 2B, 36 RBI) ♦ RHP Colin Welmon, Loyola Mary.

(10-2, 2.37 ERA, 58 K, 19 BB) ♦ RHP Trevor Megill, Loyola Marymount (Coming back from TJ surgery) ♦ 2B Hutton Moyer, Pepperdine (.306, 24 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ C Aaron Barnett, Pepperdine (.359, 5 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ 1B Brad Anderson, Pepperdine (.282, 5 HR, 13 2B, 33 RBI)

♦ RHP Jackson McClelland, Pepperdine (8-3, 3.48 ERA, 49 K, 23 BB) ♦ Relief Chandler Blanchard, Pepperdine (1-1, 1.12 ERA, 26 AP) ♦ RHP Brandon Bailey, Gonzaga (6-7, 3.64 ERA, 62 K, 25 BB) ♦ RHP Andrew Sopko, Gonzaga (5-4, 3.64 ERA, 61 K, 23 BB) ♦ OF Caleb Wood, Gonzaga (.300, 12 2B, 24 RBI, 9 SB) ♦ 3B Mitchell Gunsolus, Gonzaga (.287, 8 2B, 4 3B, 23 RBI) ♦ DH Jimmy Sinatro, Gonzaga (.286, 6 2B, 32 RBI) ♦ RHP Peter Hendron, Santa Clara (6-4, 4.34 ERA, 83 IP) ♦ SS Jose Vizcaino, Jr., Santa Clara (.323, 2 HR, 8 2B, 28 RBI, 11 SB) ♦ C Stevie Berman, Santa Clara (.322, 4 HR, 13 2B, 23 RBI) ♦ SS Brett Sullivan, Pacific (.357, 4 HR, 15 2B, 5 3B, 40 RBI) ♦ RHP Jake Jenkins, Pacific (6-3, 2.55 ERA, 74 K, 26 BB) ♦ RHP Jeff Barker, Brigham Young (6-5, 3.80 ERA, 55 K, 38 BB) ♦ Relief Brandon Kinser, BYU (6 SV, 3-3, 3.04 ERA, 31 AP, 46 K) ♦ 1B Dillon Robinson, Brigham Young (.369, 6 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ C Jarrett Jarvis, Brigham Young (.339, 15 2B, 16 RBI) ♦ 1B Brendan Hendriks, San Francisco (.287, 6 HR, 19 2B, 3 3B, 39 RBI) ♦ OF Derek Atkinson, San Francisco (.330, 15 2B, 44 RBI) ♦ LHP Christian Cecilio, San Francisco (5-8, 4.15 ERA, 91 IP, 76 K, 25 BB) ♦ Relief Logan West, San Francisco (1-0, 1.52 ERA, 18 AP, 17 K) ♦ 1B Collin Ferguson, St. Mary’s (.256, 3 HR, 14 2B, 27 RBI) ♦ 3B Anthony Villa, St. Mary’s (.276, 11 2B, 23 RBI) ♦ RHP Cameron Neff, St. Mary’s (5-8, 4.26 ERA, 60 K, 22 BB)

Western Athletic

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School (’14 Finish) 2014 RPI 1. Sacramento St. (1) 130 2. Grand Canyon (2) 141 3. Cal. St. Bakersfield (5) 244 4. Texas-Pan American (3) 214 5. New Mexico St. (7) 262 6. Utah Valley (4) 164 7. Seattle (6) 219 8. North Dakota (8) 272 9. Chicago St. (9) 292 10. Northern Colorado (10) 297 Projected Pitchers Of Year ♦ RHP Brennan Leitao, Sacramento St. (9-4, 2.15 ERA, 79 K, 23 BB) ♦ LHP Andrew Naderer, Grand Canyon (9-3, 3.26 ERA, 61 K, 28 BB) Projected Player Of Year ♦ 2B Chad De La Guerra, Grand Canyon (.373, 6 HR, 12 2B, 49 RBI, 16 SB) Other Top Players To Watch: ♦ OF Nathan Lukes, Sacramento St. (.347, 10 2B, 26 RBI, 10 SB) ♦ 2B Brandon Hunley, Sacramento St. (.269, 6 HR, 7 2B, 32 RBI) ♦ LHP Justin Long, Sacramento St. (8-2, 3.03 ERA, 50 K, 26 BB) ♦ RHP Justin Dillon, Sacramento St. (4-2, 3.86 ERA, 26 K, 26 BB) ♦ Relief Sutter McLoughlin, Sac. St.

(9 SV, 4-2, 1.81 ERA, 36 K, 10 BB) ♦ RHP Jorge Perez, Grand Canyon (1-6, 3 SV, 3.43 ERA, 38 K, 12 BB) ♦ RHP Coley Bruns, Grand Canyon (6-0, 2.24 ERA, 69 K, 22 BB) ♦ Relief Ethan Evanko, Grand Canyon (6-1, 3.42 ERA, 41 K, 19 BB) ♦ RHP Cameron Brendel, Grand Canyon (Glendale C.C., 2nd team All-Region) ♦ 1B Soloman Williams, Cal. St. Bakers. (.293, 6 HR, 16 2B, 32 RBI) ♦ 3B Mylz Jones, Cal. St. Bakersfield (.300, 2 HR, 9 2B, 24 RBI) ♦ RHP James Barragan, Cal. St. Bakers.

(5-6, 4.52 ERA, 62 K, 39 BB) ♦ Relief Max Carter, Cal. St. Bakersfield (5 SV, 1-2, 4.66 ERA, 17 AP) ♦ RHP Blake English, Tex.-Pan Am. (6-4, 2.61 ERA, 42 K, 21 BB) ♦ LHP Alex Henson, Tex.-Pan American (3-2, 2.88 ERA, 52 K, 29 BB) ♦ Relief Andrew Padron, Tex.-Pan Am. (2 SV, 2-3, 3.29 ERA, 20 AP) ♦ 1B Victor Garcia, Jr., Tex.-Pan Am. (.273, 9 2B, 21 RBI) ♦ OF Quinnton Mack, New Mexico St. (Injured prior to last season) ♦ 3B Derek Umpres, New Mexico St. (.328, 3 HR, 12 2B, 40 RBI) ♦ 1B Michael Paulson, New Mexico St. (.317, 10 2B, 40 RBI) ♦ RHP Billy Conard, New Mexico St. (4-3, 4.66 ERA, 49 K, 27 BB) ♦ RHP Riley Barr, New Mexico St. (5-3, 2.94 ERA, 46 K, 22 BB) ♦ RHP Trey Gonzales, New Mexico St. (6 SV, 0-1, 3.42 ERA, 18 AP) ♦ 1B Mark Krueger, Utah Valley (.305, 7 HR, 12 2B, 42 RBI) ♦ OF Craig Brinkerhoff, Utah Valley (.295, 6 HR, 21 2B, 40 RBI) ♦ RHP Danny Beddes, Utah Valley (4-5, 4.09 ERA, 46 K) ♦ C Brian Olson, Seattle (.320, 3 HR, 15 2B, 47 RBI) ♦ LHP Will Dennis, Seattle (6-5, 3.25 ERA, 51 K, 17 BB) ♦ RHP Skyler Genger, Seattle (4-2, 4.06 ERA, 53 K, 17 BB) ♦ Relief Garrett Anderson, Seattle (3 SV, 3-2, 3.00 ERA, 23 AP, 38 K) ♦ OF Jensen Park, Northern Colorado (.304, 4 HR, 9 2B, 22 RBI) ♦ 1B Brandon Vaughn, Northern Colo. (.265, 14 2B, 18 RBI, 7 SB) ♦ RHP Spencer Applebach, N. Colo.

(Trans. Chandler Gilbert J.C., AZ)

Independents

Projected Order Of Finish Rank School 2014 RPI 1. N.J. Inst. of Tech. (20-25) 293 2. N.Y. Inst. of Tech. (4-46) 302 Top Players To Watch: ♦ OF Ed Charlton, NJIT (.275, 4 HR, 8 2B, 34 RBI) ♦ 2B Mike Rampone, NJIT (.314, 3 HR, 15 2B, 24 RBI, 7 SB) ♦ LHP Ian Bentley, NJIT (6-3, 3.24 ERA, 43 K, 19 BB) ♦ LHP Tyler Kapp, NJIT (3-3, 1 SV, 2.67 ERA, 18 AP) ♦ OF Joe Daru, NYIT (.301, 9 2B, 17 RBI, 31 SB) ♦ 1B Josh Canabal, NYIT (.293, 6 2B, 16 RBI, 8 SB) ♦ C Nick Sebastian, NYIT (.252, 3 HR, 11 2B, 19 RBI)

R.A.KE. System Can Set Individual Offensive Goals In Limited Focus

By JUSTIN DEHMER & JON FITZPATRICK Special To Collegiate Baseball

NORWALK, Iowa — Goals are essential in any area of life.

They keep us motivated.

Most teams set goals individually and as a team.

This is not a new practice that nobody uses.

But sometimes when I work with teams, I notice they take this to an extreme.

They have goal boards in their clubhouse or dugout with 10, 15, or more things they are trying to do.

It makes me wonder how many goals are too many goals?

If I have a list of 15-20 things I am trying to do, whether it be for the day ahead or on the baseball field, not all of them usually get done or get the attention they deserve.

Undoubtedly all goals are important, but narrowing our focus often is needed.

My question to you would be if I came to a practice or game, could players on your team identify the goals your offense has for this season?

The 1-Pitch Warrior R.A.K.E. System is a way to set individual goals for your team offensively to stay focused on a limited amount of items rather then a large amount of them.

Let’s dig into each part of the

JUSTIN DEHMER acronym.

R = Runs Per Game Simple concept, but setting an actual goal based on previous seasons and current personnel is vital in any program.

You need to be honest with yourself on this one.

You may have just crushed the ball last year and had some guys who could swing the bat but have since graduated, and you are not sure if you are going to have the firepower to produce those same type of runs game in and game out.

Most importantly, set attainable goals.

If you start meeting your goals a quarter of the way through the season, and you are finding that they need to be higher, then there is nothing that says you can’t change them throughout your season.

A = Appearances (Plate Appearances) Getting to the dish as many times as possible is vital for offensive success.

The more you get to the plate the more runners you will have on base.

Creating more difficult situations for the pitcher and defense.

Walks, hit by pitch, hits, etc. all play apart in wearing the opposing starter down and also lead to the runs you will score.

K’s = Strikeouts Per Game We want to limit the amount of strikeouts we give up each game.

The K is the easiest out we will ever give up.

Putting the ball in play, especially on the ground will always increase your chances of winning. We want to force the other team to make plays.

A fly ball takes one catch to record an out while a ground ball takes at least a catch, throw, and catch potentially even more if it is a double play opportunity.

No better example than the Kansas City Royals this past

season.

They were the #1 team in the Major Leagues when it comes to groundballs.

E = Extra Base Hits We want players who can drive the ball.

Not necessarily out of the yard but players than can hit balls in the gaps and leg them out into doubles and even triples.

Singles are great but the extra base hit is a game changer. We want to have a goal here as well.

With singles it is going to take at least three to score a run but with a double, triple, or homerun we can score much quicker and the quantity we score could quite possibly lead to a big inning.

Which is part of BASE2 that many of you have already found to be so valuable as an offensive strategy.

Lets face it, every team you coach will be better at certain facets of the game than others.

Each team is not created equal in these categories and goal setting.

I am sure that many teams will be very close to each other but you must do the leg work and research the outcomes of past games so you can set some actionable goals for your current group of players.

Jon Fitzpatrick, who was really the brainchild of R.A.K.E., did this with the teams he coached over the past four years.

More On Dehmer

MARTENSDALE, Iowa — Justin Dehmer led MartensdaleSt. Marys High School to 88 consecutive wins over three seasons as the Blue Devils captured state championships each year.

Martensdale-St. Marys came one game short of tying the national win streak record which is held

by Portsmouth H.S. (N.H.) at 89 straight victories.

Portsmouth’s streak took place over five years.

Dehmer has a number of outstanding coaching tips that can be obtained at www.1pitchwarrior. com Here is what he found after researching the games they played: Runs Scored If the team scored 6 runs or more they were 101-6.

If they scored 5 or fewer the record was 20-29.

Plate Appearances If the team came to the plate 30 or more times, they were 89-19.

If there were 29 or fewer plate appearances, record was 32-16.

Strikeouts When they had 5 or fewer strikeouts, the results were 90-15.

See R.A.KE., Page 37

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. , 015

Page 31

2015 Draft Preview

Elite College Baseball Players Showcased In Special Rundown

By LOU PAVLOVICH, JR. Editor/Collegiate Baseball

innings, he fanned 69 batters with 15 walks.

SS Alex Bregman Louisiana St. LSU Head Coach Paul Mainieri feels that Bregman is as talented and dynamic a player as he has ever coached.

“He is an exceptional leader who inspires his teammates with his work ethic and undeniable desire to win,” said Mainieri.

Last season, he hit .316 for the Tigers with 6 homers, 16 doubles and 47 RBIs. In 2013, he was named National Freshman Player of The Year and the winner of the Brooks Wallace Award as the nation’s top shortstop.

TUCSON, Ariz. — The following is a list of college players who have an excellent chance of being drafted in the first two rounds of next June’s Free Agent Draft with a good season.

The list was made after consulting with college baseball coaches across the nation along with scouts.

RHP Riley Ferrell Texas Christian The 6-foot-1, 200-pounder sits at 94-97 mph with his fastball.

Reportedly, he has topped out at 99 or 100 mph depending on who you talk to and has a plus slider as well.

His makeup is off the charts.

Last season for the Horned Frogs, Ferrell posted 15 saves as the closer and a 3-1 record.

He had a microscopic 0.79 ERA in 31 appearances as he struck out 70 batters and walked only 14.

LHP Nathan Kirby Virginia This amazing southpaw has a fastball that sits from 92-95 mph and also throws a superb changeup. He shows composure and poise in high pressure situations.

Last season for the Cavaliers, he was 9-3 with a 2.06 ERA with 112 strikeouts over 113 1/3 innings and only 33 walks.

RHP Ryan Burr Arizona St. The 6-foot-4, 216-pounder was sensational for the Sun Devils last season as he posted 12 saves, 3-3 record and 3.27 ERA. In 30 appearances, he fanned 56 batters.

RHP Kyle Funkhouser Louisville The 6-foot-3, 225-pound

RHP Carson Fulmer Vanderbilt Fulmer is a tremendous competitor who attacks hitters with a mid to upper 90s fastball, plus slider and developing change.

Last season for the Commodores, he was 7-1 with 10 saves and a 1.98 ERA. He fanned 95 batters in 91 innings with 10 walks.

RHP RILEY FERRELL

…100 mph fastball, 15 saves, 0.79 ERA for Texas Christian Funkhouser has been on a mission since his freshman year.

He went to the Cape Cod League and was determined to be Louisville’s No. 1 starter as a sophomore which ultimately happened.

His fastball sits at 92-94 mph and has topped out at 96 mph. He also has a plus slider.

Last season for the Cardinals, he was 13-3 with a 1.94 ERA. He struck out 122 batters with 65 walks over 120 1/3 innings.

LHP Cole Irvin Oregon Tommy John surgery robbed Irvin of his sophomore season in 2014.

He is progressing nicely and is expected to pitch during the 2015

season.

In 2013, he set a freshman school record for wins at Oregon with a 12-3 record and posted a 2.48 ERA with 60 strikeouts and 22 walks. He was named a Freshman All-American.

He is a projectable southpaw with 4-pitch command.

RHP Michael Matuella Duke University The talented righthander has a 9397 mph fastball with with great arm side movement and plus command of all his pitches.

He has developed a great feel for his curve and changeup which compliment his slider.

Last season for the Blue Devils, he was 1-3 with a 2.78 ERA. In 58

RHP Walker Buehler Vanderbilt Buehler is another incredible pitcher at Vanderbilt who posted a 12-2 record and 2.64 ERA last season.

He fanned 111 batters with only 31 walks over 102 1/3 innings.

He fired pitches from 92-95 mph during the summer in the Cape Cod League.

2B/SS Dansby Swanson Vanderbilt Swanson is an electric shortstop with great range and speed.

On offense last season for the Volunteers, he hit .333 with 3 homers, 27 doubles, 34 RBI and swiped 22 bases.

OF Ian Happ Cincinnati The 5-foot-11, 192-pound switch hitter has tremendous speed.

He hit .322 last season for the Bearcats with 5 homers, 13 doubles, 27 RBI and 19 stolen bases.

RHP Kyle Cody Kentucky The 6-foot-7, 250-pounder features a 92-96 mph fastball.

He has three quality pitches and is expected to have a great season in 2015.

In 2014, he was 4-0 with 5 saves and a 2.84 ERA in 38 innings for Kentucky.

OF D.J. Stewart Florida St. Stewart has the rare ability to hit for power or spray pitches over all areas of the field.

He also has excellent speed and can play any of the three outfield positions with good range and above average arm strength.

Last season for the Seminoles, he hit .351 with 7 homers, 19 doubles and 50 RBI. He was named ACC Player of The Year.

RHP James Kaprielian UCLA A bulldog on the mound, Kaprielian struck out 108 batters in 106 innings last season and only allowed 35 walks with a 2.29 ERA and 7-6 record.

He is a big time, big game pitcher.

RHP Jake Lemoine Houston The 6-foot-5, 220-pounder, who played for Team USA last summer, has topped out at 95 mph.

Last season for the Cougars, he was 6-8 with a 2.87 ERA and fanned 87 batters with 29 walks over 106 2/3 innings.

RHP Phil Bickford Southern Nevada J.C. Bickford was the 10th pick overall

by Toronto in the 2013 draft and opted to pitch at Cal. St. Fullerton last spring instead of taking the Major League Baseball assigned signing price of

See BIG TIME, Page 3

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Collegiate Baseball

Page 32

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Big Time Pitching Prospects Have Scouts Excited He also swiped 25 of 28 bases.

Continued From Page 31

SS Kevin Newman Arizona Newman became the first player ever to win the batting title two consecutive years in the Cape Cod League for the Falmouth Commodores.

During the summer of 2013, he hit .375 to become the first freshman ever to win the award.

Last summer, he hit .380 for Falmouth.

If that wasn’t enough, he was named Most Valuable Player of the league as well.

$2.9 million.

Prior to the draft, he hit 96 mph with his fastball.

Last summer, he was superb in the Cape Cod League for the YarmouthDennis Red Sox as he posted 8 saves, a 2.25 ERA and fanned 33 batters with 5 walks over 14 appearances as hit 97 mph with his fastball.

Once the summer was over, he decided not to return to Cal. St. Fullerton and took his skills to Southern Nevada J.C. so he could be eligible for the 2015 Draft.

RHP/OF Jameis Winston Florida St. Winston is intriguing to professional scouts because of his athletic skills.

If he spent the time to develop as a baseball player, he undoubtedly could be a high draft pick as either a pitcher or position player.

The 6-foot-4, 215-pound Winston, the Heisman Trophy winner in 2013 after leading Florida State to an unbeaten football season, has topped out at 97 mph as the closer for the Seminole baseball team.

Last season, he posted 7 saves with a 1.08 ERA in 24 appearances as he fanned 31 batters.

At the plate, he only hit .128 in 24 games with 0 home runs, 2 doubles and 4 RBI. OF Skye Bolt North Carolina Bolt is a skilled centerfielder with speed.

Last season for the Tar Heels, he hit .257 with 4 homers, 9 doubles, 32 RBI and swiped 11 bases.

LHP Brett Lilek Arizona St. The 6-foot-4, 217-pounder threw 84 innings last season and struck out 79 batters. He posted a 4-5 record and 2.68 ERA. RHP Cody Ponce Cal. Poly Pomona The 6-foot-5, 235-pound Ponce flashes a fastball in the upper 90s with command of four pitches.

Last season for the Broncos, he was 4-4 with a 2.48 ERA. Ponce struck out 49 batters in 72 2/3 innings.

OF Gio Brusa Pacific Brusa was named the top position player in the Cape Cod League last summer after hitting .322 with 6 homers and collecting 20 RBI. He is an athletic switch hitter with plus power potential.

SS Richie Martin Florida Martin is a dynamic athlete who had a tremendous summer playing in the Cape Cod League for the Bourne Braves.

He hit .364 (second in the league) and belted 3 homers with 6 doubles and 20 RBI. In addition, he swiped 17 bases (third in the league).

OF Joe McCarthy Virginia McCarthy has outstanding speed and range in the outfield.

Last season, he hit .301 with 6 homers, 16 doubles, 49 RBI and swiped 11 of 12 bases for the Cavaliers.

RHP Scott Effross Indiana Effross features a 92-94 mph fastball and was an All-Star in the Cape Cod League.

Last season for the Hoosiers, he was 5-3 with 5 saves and a 1.98 ERA. He struck out 40 batters with 11 walks over 54 2/3 innings.

SS ALEX BREGMAN

…Superb defense, 6 HR, 16 2B, 47 RBI for Louisiana St. LHP Tyler Jay Illinois Jay has topped out at 97 mph with his fastball and played for Team USA last summer.

He has pitched for the Fighting Illini in various relief roles, including the team’s closer.

Last season, he posted 10 saves with a 4-1 record, 1.94 ERA and fanned 47 batters over 23 appearances.

RHP Dillon Tate U.C. Santa Barbara The 6-foot-2, 185-pounder fires his fastball 94-98 mph and has a wipeout slider as he throws four pitches for strikes.

He has topped out at 99 mph.

Last season for the Gauchos, he served as the closer as he posted 12 saves, 2-1 record and 1.45 ERA over 28 appearances.

He fanned 46 batters with 17 walks.

OF Chris Shaw Boston College The 6-foot-3, 248-pounder lefthanded hitter hit .329 with 6 homers, 18 doubles and 45 RBI last season for the Eagles.

He is possibly the top power hitter in the USA and could emerge as the top left-handed hitter.

LHP Andrew Suarez Miami (Fla.) Suarez has exceptional movement and command of his pitches.

Last season, he was 6-3 with a 2.96 ERA for the Hurricanes.

He struck out 87 batters with only

15 walks over 109 2/3 innings.

LHP A.J. Minter Texas A&M Minter featured a 93-97 mph fastball with a cutter that has been ramped up to 91 mph.

He also has a developing curve.

Last season for the Aggies, he posted a 3-0 record, 2 saves and a 1.85 ERA. He is expected to be the closer this season for Texas A&M. RHP Grayson Long Texas A&M The 6-foot-5, 220-pounder sits at 90-93 mph with his fastball with great command.

Last season for the Aggies, he was 6-2 with a 3.12 ERA. He fanned 55 batters with 28 walks over 89 1/3 innings.

RHP Jimmy Herget South Florida Herget has a 93 mph fastball with multiple arm angles and a variety of pitches as he pounds the zone.

Last season for the Bulls, he was 7-6 with a 1.26 ERA. In 107 1/3 innings, he struck out 90 batters with 27 walks.

RHP Mitchell Tripp Central Florida Tripp is 16 months past Tommy John surgery and has a 92-96 mph fastball which has topped out at 98 mph.

He has a big arm with huge potential.

RHP Trent Thornton North Carolina Thornton is a bulldog competitor who provides consistent performances at the top of the rotation for the Tar Heels.

Last season, he was 7-4 with a 2.73 ERA and fanned 83 batters with 29

walks over 95 2/3 innings.

RHP Reilly Hovis North Carolina Hovis did it all for the Tar Heels last year as he posted a 9-1 record with 6 saves in 34 appearances.

He fanned 81 batters and walked only 24.

RHP Mike Murray Florida Gulf Coast Murray was one of the top pitchers in the nation last season and features command of multiple pitches.

During the 2014 season, he was 13-1 with a 1.85 ERA as he fanned 79 batters with 14 walks over 107 innings.

SS Travis Maezes Michigan Maezes is an advanced hitter with a professional approach at the plate.

Last season for the Wolverines, he hit .302 with 3 homers, 18 doubles and 19 RBI with 19 stolen bases.

LHP Alex Young Texas Christian The 6-foot-2, 190 pounder had 22 appearances last spring and posted a 2.51 ERA. He fanned 40 batters in 43 innings with 16 walks.

2B Mark Mathias Cal. Poly Mathias has the ability to hit for a high average as he combines that with speed and defense.

He is the catalyst of the Mustangs’ offense from the leadoff or No. 3 hole.

Last season, he hit .386 with 2 homers, 14 doubles, 39 RBI and swiped 12 bases.

RHP Seth McGarry Florida Atlantic McGarry features a fastball that hit 97 mph during the past summer in the Cape Cod League.

In 10 appearances last season for the Owls, he posted a 1.54 ERA. RHP Jon Duplantier Rice University The 6-foot-4, 210-pounder was named MVP of the NBC World Series last summer as he played for the Santa See TOP COLLEGE, Page 33

RHP Thomas Eshelman Cal. St. Fullerton Eshelman may have the best command of any pitcher in college baseball history.

During his freshman year with the Titans, he only walked 3 batters in 115 2/3 innings while posting a 13-3 record, 1.48 ERA and struck out 83 batters.

Last season, he only walked 8 batters over 123 2/3 innings with 99 strikeouts as he went 8-3 with a 1.89 ERA. RHP Justin Garza Cal. St. Fullerton Garza has hit 95 mph with his fastball and is a bulldog of a pitcher.

Last season after coming back from an injury, he was 5-4 with a 3.22 ERA and fanned 60 batters with 14 walks over 72 2/3 innings.

OF Christin Stewart Tennessee One of the top lefthanded hitters in the nation, Stewart is coming off a monster summer with Team USA. He not only led Team USA with a .383 batting average (nearly 100 points higher than the second highest average) but he belted 12 doubles (more than twice as many as the second best).

He also collected 16 RBI, another team high.

SS Mikey White Alabama An outstanding defensive shortstop, White hit .300 last season for the Crimson Tide.

He also belted 7 homers with 9 doubles and 33 RBI.

RHP PHIL BICKFORD

…97 mph fastball, former 10th pick overall will be hard to ignore

OF Steven Duggar Clemson Duggar is an exceptional athlete who hit .294 last season for the Tigers with 11 doubles and 36 RBI.

LHP RYAN KELLOGG

…Arizona St. southpaw 8-3 last season with 66 strikeouts

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Page 33

Top College Draftable Players Will Be Watched Closely Continued From Page 32

Barbara Foresters.

He posted a 6-2 record and a 1.50 ERA with 74 strikeouts and 17 walks over 54 innings.

RHP Travis Lakins Ohio St. Lakins features a fastball that can hit 96 mph and has the feel of three pitches.

Last season for the Buckeyes, he posted a 1-3 record, 2 saves and a 2.45 ERA. In 25 appearances, he fanned 55 batters with 21 walks.

C Taylor Ward Fresno St. Ward has above average tools all around in addition to a plus power bat and arm.

Last season for the Bulldogs, he threw out 18 runners in 45 stolen base attempts.

On offense, he hit .320 with 6 homers, 8 doubles and 41 RBI. LHP Ryan Kellogg Arizona St. The 6-foot-6, 234-pounder was superb last season.

He posted an 8-3 record, 3.76 ERA and fanned 66 batters in 103 innings with 22 walks.

RHP Marc Brakeman Stanford Brakeman had a terrific summer in the Cape Cod League as he topped out at 95 mph.

Last spring for Stanford, he struck out 41 batters over 45 innings and posted a 3.80 ERA. SS Kevin Kramer UCLA Kramer helped lead UCLA to the national title in 2013 with his amazing skills as a third baseman in starting all 66 games and hit .278 with 3 homers, 2 triples, 11 doubles and 42 RBI. He was moved to shortstop in 2014, but a shoulder injury forced him to sit out the entire season.

Kramer is ready to go in 2015, and his defensive skills will be on display.

He is a 5-tool player who undoubtedly will turn heads this season.

RHP/LHP Ryan Perez Judson University The 6-foot-1, 190-pounder is a rare ambidextrous pitcher who can throw fastballs from the left side at 94 mph and right at 92 mph.

He was highly impressive last summer as he was named MVP of the Cape Cod League All-Star game for Hyannis.

In that game, he struck out a batter lefthanded, one righthanded and a third lefthanded in the third inning.

RHP Alec Rash Missouri Rash had growing pains last season for Missouri and only threw in 17 2/3 innings while posting a 2.04 ERA and striking out 16 batters.

A former second round pick by the Phillies in the 2012 Free Agent Draft at Adel-Desoto-Minburn H.S. (Adel, Iowa), he featured a 97 mph fastball, but command has always been an issue.

At Missouri, he is learning the fine art of pitching and refining his mechanics in the rugged Southeastern Conference.

If his numbers improve this season, he will once again be a hot commodity by pro baseball.

LHP Christian Trent Mississippi Trent is a superb pitcher with great command of his fastball, slider and changeup.

Last season for the Rebels, he posted a 9-0 record, 2.05 ERA and struck out 86 batters with 20 walks over 110 innings.

2B Max Schrock South Carolina A plus hitter from the left side with plus power, Schrock is also a superb defensive second baseman.

Last season for the Gamecocks, he hit .299 with 5 homers, 5 doubles and 20 RBI.

RHP KYLE FUNKHOUSER

…Louisville ace fires 96 mph fastball, 13-3, 122 strikeouts SS Blake Trahan Louisiana-Lafayette One of the top shortstops in the nation, he has a tremendous skill set and is clutch in high pressure situations.

Last season for the Ragin’ Cajuns, he hit .355 with 4 homers, 12 doubles, 49 RBI and swiped 15 bases.

He also has played for Team USA and has been named an AllAmerican.

RHP Lucas Hampal Texas State A tremendous competitor who can throw his fastball 90-95 mph, he has great command of three pitches.

Last season, he struck out 82 batters in 88 2/3 innings and walked 27 while registering a 4-6 record and 3.76 ERA. RHP Kolton Mahoney Brigham Young Mahoney was the Cape Cod League Pitcher of The Year last summer.

He flashed a 90-94 mph fastball with a curve, slider and changeup.

Last season for BYU, he was 6-6 with a 3.97 ERA and struck out 69 batters in 88 1/3 innings.

RHP Trevor Megill Loyola Marymount The 6-foot-8, 245-pound Megill did not pitch last season due to Tommy John surgery, but he still was drafted in the third round by the St. Louis Cardinals.

Prior to surgery performed in May of 2013, he was clocked throwing a 93 mph fastball.

RHP Josh Staumont Azusa Pacific The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Staumont flashes a 98-99 mph fastball.

Last season, he struck out out 89 batters in 80 2/3 innings at Azusa Pacific as he posted a 7-6 record and 4.24 ERA. RHP David Hill San Diego The transfer from Orange Coast Community College put up massive numbers last season.

He was 11-1 with a 1.67 ERA. In 113 innings, he struck out 109 with only 16 walks at Orange Coast.

LHP/DH Kyle Carter Lynn University Carter is a gifted athlete with a 93 mph fastball with a plus breaking ball and also can hit.

Last season at Miami-Dade J.C. (FL), he hit .384 with 2 homers and 23 RBI. On the mound, he struck out 72 batters in 82 innings and posted a 3.00 ERA. RHP Tyler Mark Concordia-Irvine A transfer from Cal. St. Dominguez Hills, Mark flashes a 93-95 mph fastball with a quality slider and changeup.

Last summer in the Northwoods League, the 6-foot-1, 195-pounder was superb for the Mankato Moondogs as he was named to the All-Star

game.

Mark posted 9 saves, 2-0 record and a 0.65 ERA with 45 strikeouts in 20 appearances with his summer league team.

He also has an outstanding changeup and effective curve.

Marshall fell to the 21st round in last June’s draft and would have been picked much higher, but his $1.5 million signing price was a stumbling block.

He initially signed a letter of intent with Louisiana State University.

But he changed his mind and transferred to Chipola Junior College (FL) to be eligible for the 2015 June draft.

McCormack.

“He has No. 1 type stuff and can shut down anyone. He changes the complexion of your rotation the day he gets on campus.”

RHP Colyn O’Connell Miami-Dade J.C. (FL) The 6-foot-5, 200-pound O’Connell is a former 19th round draft pick By Cleveland from the 2012 draft and transferred to Miami-Dade J.C. (FL) from Polk St. J.C. (FL) last fall.

He sat out the 2014 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery and is healthy now.

During the past fall, he was clocked throwing 93-95 mph with his fastball.

He recently signed to play at Florida Atlantic next season.

“This young man is as physically gifted as they come, but his real strength is in his mental toughness,” said Florida Atlantic head Coach John

RHP Dean Kremer San Joaquin Delta C.C. (CA) Kremer opted to redshirt last season at San Joaquin Delta Community College as a freshman to improve his size and velocity.

The decision paid off as his fastball now touches the low 90s after adding 25 pounds to his frame.

The 6-foot-3,185-pounder has great command and is very projectable.

Last summer, he played for Israel in the European Pool C Championships in Ljubljana, Slovenia and was named Best Pitcher.

He went 2-0 with a 0.00 ERA and fanned 20 batters with only one walk over 13 innings.

RHP Jacob Taylor Pearl River J.C. (MS) The 6-foot-3, 215-pound Taylor has a fastball that has touched 97 mph.

Last season for Pearl River J.C. (MS), he posted a 3-1 record in 28 innings with 3 saves and fanned 33 batters.

RHP Grayson Jones Shelton State J.C. (AL) The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Jones has topped out at 98 mph with his fastball.

Last year he turned down fourth round money to play at Shelton State.

During his freshman season at Shelton State, he posted a5-2 record, 3.96 ERA and struck out 67 batters in 52 1/3 innings over 12 appearances.

RHP Kevin Ginkel Southwestern C.C. (CA) The 6-foot-3, 195-pounder flashes a 95 mph fastball.

Last season at Southwestern C.C. (CA), he posted an 8-3 record, 2.76 ERA and fanned 58 batters with 18 walks over 88 innings.

LHP Mac Marshall Chipola J.C. (FL) The 6-foot, 187-pounder has a fastball that runs from 90-94 and has topped out at 95 mph.

LHP NATHAN KIRBY

…Virginia’s ace throws 95 mph, 9-3, 2.06 ERA, 112 strikeouts

Collegiate Baseball

Page 34

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Blue-Chip NCAA Division II Players Listed For 2015 TUCSON, Ariz. — The following list of top players for 2015 was prepared by the American Baseball Coaches Association’s NCAA Division II All-America Baseball committee chaired by Rudy Garbalosa of Lynn University.

3B/1B Cole Metcalfe, Bellarmine 3B Drew Johnson, Cedarville MIF Travis Phelps, Davis and Elkins RHP Austin Faulconer, Drury RHP Alex Williams, Findlay RHP Aaron Jensen, Grand Valley State OF Tad Sobieszczanski, Hillsdale RHP Kyle Schildroth, Illinois-Springfield RHP Matt Kaplanis, Ulndy RHP Andrew Moralez, Kentucky Wesleyan OF Aaron Lindgren, Lake Erie SS Mike Barajas, Lewis C Hayden Mobley, Malone 1B/3B Mike Wilkinson, Maryville CF Kyle Rutledge, McKendree RHP Luke Bivens, Northwood C Kyle Tisdale, Ohio Dominican SS Marlon Bellmas, Ohio Valley OF/1B David Jacob, Quincy P Michael Lydun-Lorson, Rockhurst RHP Dale Reetz, Saginaw Valley OF Emilio Lollio, Salem International OF Kyle Kempf, Southern Indiana Jordan Peterson, St. Joseph’s RHP Logan Sendelbach, Tiffin CF Ethan Hurt, Travecca Nazarene OF Jarod Hahn, Truman State RHP Zack Sedlacek, UMSL P Mario Samuel, UW-Parkside C Austin Szink, Walsh P/1B Kyle Zimmerman, Wayne State

Atlantic Region Pre-Season All-Americans RHP Brandon Holup, East Stroudsburg 3B Brendan Cox, Mercyhurst DH Dan Popio, Mercyhurst 3B Eric Frain, Bloomsburg OF Brandon Martinez, Kutztown RHP Mike Bittel, Seton Hill OF Cody Herald, Seton Hill RHP Jesse Cooper, Seton Hill RHP/OF Anthony Brunetti, Charleston 2B Tyler Burden, Chowan 2B Jimmy Spanos, Shippensburg Players to Watch OF Weston Baylor, Mansfield RHP Matt Festa, East Stroudsburg RHP Aaron Cox, Gannon SS DJ Busby, West Liberty OF Ryan Siegel, Mercyhurst OF Adam Urbania, Slippery Rock RHP Tyler Hill, Bloomsburg RHP Matt Swarmer, Kutztown UT Austin Mock, IUP 3B Nick Sell, Seton Hill RHP Tristan Fields, Charleston SS Tanner Woods, Chowan OF Matthew Wilson, Shepherd 2B Jacob Carney, Shepherd OF Spencer Wolfe, Shepherd RHP Mark Curtis, Shippensburg Newcomers to Watch RHP Tommy Alexander, Mansfield SS Conner Crookham, East Stroudsburg INF/C Vincent Haddox, West Liberty INF Austin Alonge, Mercyhurst C Tyler Walters, Slippery Rock OF/P Shane Woelfel, Bloomsburg OF Ben Eppley, Kutztown C Aaron Flangan, Chowan OF JJ Sarty, Shepherd RHP Gabe Mosser, Shippensburg Central Region Pre-Season All-Americans RHP Collin Campbell, Harding 3B Dean Long, Emporia State OF Anthony Pacheco, UN-Kearney C Nolan Johnson, Minnesota State DH Pat Rients, SMSU OF/INF Kyle Dalton, Concordia-St. Paul C Jack Goihl, Augustana SP Eric Browning, Wayne State SS/C Tyler Nehring, Winona State OF Ryan Degner, Missouri Western RHP Reese Gregory, St. Cloud State 3B Spencer Blackshear, Southwest Baptist INF Jake O’Brien, Central Oklahoma P Ricky Reeves, Central Oklahoma DH Josh Ingram, Central Oklahoma Players to Watch 3B Noah Chandler, Harding C David Gauntt, Washburn LHP Colton Lorance, Henderson State OF Alex George, Upper Iowa RHP Shonn Talkington, Emporia State OF Brandon Landanger, UN-Kearney OF/1B Max Waletich, Minnesota State 1B/OF Austin Stubbs, SMSU 1B/OF Alex Fink, Augustana RHP Tyler Brekke, Concordia-St. Paul OF/P Curtis Bussard, Wayne State RHP Henry Ojeda, Sioux Falls P Payton Walker, Missouri Southern C/1B Patrick Castleberry, Arkansas Tech RHP Will Lundquist, Winona State C Caden Cleveland, Oklahoma Christian SS Trevor Rucker, Southern Arkansas 1B/OF Alex Wojciechowski, UM-Duluth C Nate Arnold, Pittsburg State SS Cody Childs, Missouri Western OF Eric Loxtercamp, St. Cloud State C Chance Wolfe, Southwest Baptist RHP Austin Zorn, Minot State RHP Geoff Hartlieb, Lindenwood OF Cody Begovich, Northeastern State

OF KYLE KEMPF

…21 2B, 36 RBI, 23 SB and 11 assists for Southern Indiana 1B/DH Cooper Langley, Fort Hayes State CF Braylon Colley, SE Oklahoma State RHP Ricky Rivera, Central Missouri Newcomers to Watch 1B/3B Zach Beasley, Harding P Zach Linquist, Washburn 3B Claude Johnson, Henderson State RHP Tyus Adkins, Upper Iowa RHP Garrett Brummett, Emporia State INF Pate Katechis, UN-Kearney INF Kyle Toth, Minnesota State RHP Jake Matthys, SMSU INF Jack Fiala, Augustana RHP Cody Schacht, Concordia St. Paul OF Nathan Ackerman, Wayne State 1B Tony Stanich, Sioux Falls P Tyler Burgess, Missouri Southern OF Bryan Heward, Arkansas Tech INF/OF Paul Mutch, Winona State OF Byron Reichstein, Southern Arkansas RHP Alex Ferguson, UM-Duluth P Blaine Fisher, Pittsburg State INF Orenzio Fisher, Missouri Western OF Payton Reed, Southwest Baptist OF Jordan Schulz, Minot State P Christian Hull, Lindenwood C Andres Vieyra, Fort Hayes State LHP Evan Sanders, SE Oklahoma State INF Bennett Oliver, Central Missouri East Region Pre-Season All-Americans 2B Nick Baviello, So. CT State P Armand Rugel, Stonehill 2B Josh Swirchak, Wilmington C Matt Lopes, Wilmington OF Sam Goines, Wilmington LHP Jamie Treml, Wilmington OF John Kennedy, Nyack C Matt Walsh, Franklin Pierce RHP Connor Gleason, Franklin Pierce P Benjamin Criscuolo, So. NH 3B Frank Crinella, Merrimack OF Rich Baerga, STAC OF Derek Hirsch, STAC Players to Watch OF Jayson Gray, Dominican RHP Francesco Scudiero, Bloomfield RHP Dom Raia, Chestnut Hill 3B Greg O’Donnell, Assumption LHP Pat Egan, So. CT State OF Brian Campbell, Stonehill RHP/1B Frank Samluk, Wilmington LHP Brian O’Keefe, Bridgeport 3B Thomas Tolan, LIU Post 1B/P Cole Tobin, Nyack

OF John Razzino, Franklin Pierce 2B Michael Mastroberti, So. NH RHP Shea Spitzbarth, Molloy RHP Don Crook, Post UT Cam DiSarcina, Merrimack RHP Chris Geraci, USP 1B Zac Bellinger, St. Rose 3B Stanley Susãna, STAC 1B Michael Hayden, St. Anselm RHP Damian Powers, LeMoyne OF Dave Clark, AIC Newcomers to Watch OF Williams Seymour, Dominican SS Juan Reina, Bloomfield RHP/OF Pat Kelley, Chestnut Hill C Andrew Jaehnig, Assumption RHP/OF Jeremy Rodriguez, So. CT State P Pat Shore, Stonehill OF Sean Feeney, Wilmington OF Robert Andreoli, LIU Post OF Maxx Sheehan, Franklin Pierce OF Michael Montville, So. NH LHP/1B Angleo Navetta, Molloy 1B/DH Don Walsh, Post C/OF Ricky Smith, Merrimack OF Christian Deluca, USP OF Mike Shine, St. Rose OF/P Giovanni Dingcong, STAC LHP Kyle McCarthy, St. Anselm OF J.T. Pittman, LeMoyne 1B/C Alex Lafayette, AIC Midwest Region Pre-Season All-Americans SS Austin Walts, Ashland DH Kyle Brooks, Ashland OF Austin Crutcher, Bellarmine RHP Trevor Richards, Drury 1B Luke Tewes, Drury RP Gage Jacobs, Drury OF Jamie Potts, Grand Valley State SS Kevin Zak, Grand Valley State RHP Evan Nietfeldt, Grand Valley State C Alex Ritchie, Ulndy OF Johnathan Eberhardt, Kentucky Wesleyan OF Lucas Raley, Lake Erie DH/OF Travis Smith, Northwood P Jake Peterson, Quincy P Cody King, Quincy 2B Tyler Tichenor, Travecca Nazarene 3B Hunter Newman, Travecca Nazarene LHP Mike Purcell, Travecca Nazarene Players to Watch RHP Randy Dobnak, Alderson Broaddus 1B Mackenzie Hampshire, Ashland

What Happened To Full Windup Pitching?

By CHARLIE GREENE Special To Collegiate Baseball

MIAMI, Fla. — When Don Larsen pitched a perfect game in the 1956 World Series using a no wind-up delivery, the trend to adopt this style captured the attention of pitchers and coaches throughout the game.

To my recollection, the last major league pitcher to use a full wind-up was Paul Byrd, late in his career, during the 2000’s.

Since the Larsen game, some resemblance of the no wind-up has been the style adopted by a majority of pitchers.

This abbreviated delivery could have some causal effect on the rise of injuries to the pitching arm.

It is my opinion that we should pursue a re-birth of the full wind-up as successfully employed by some of the game’s greatest pitchers. I suggest that we study the motion of Hall Of Fame pitcher Dizzy Dean,

who consistently worked over 300 innings during major league seasons.

Perhaps some type of a pre-pitch stretch, afforded by going overhead would better prepare the pitcher for the forceful acceleration in the delivery.

Someone who has access to uniformed players, whether it is a professional organization, a college or high school team, or possibly youth league groups, are likely candidates. Coaches have a great opportunity to explore this method.

Players with problems, injury or lack of performance, might provide an opening for some effective research.

When high jumpers witnessed the “Fosbury Flop,” all the top athletes in this event started to utilize this method in pursuit of world records. Maybe baseball pitchers need to find a “best way” to throw a ball with a safe and sound motion. Research in this area is

sorely needed. The sequence of a throwing motion is well understood by most coaches. Less known is the timing of the critical movements in the pitching delivery.

The following questions need to be answered: What is the ideal foot position on the rubber? Does it lead to a direct stride to the target?

When should the hands separate?

Should the palm of the throwing hand face under the ball, over it, or facing the body at separation? How close to the body?

What is the ideal movement of the lift leg?

What is the best position of the ball at stride foot strike?

Is the path of the ball in line with a second to home direction during the backswing?

All efforts to reduce the epidemic of arm injuries must be pursued if we are to make the game a safe and sound pursuit of excellence.

Newcomers to Watch 2B Trent Shaw, Alderson Broaddus P Brandyn Sittinger, Ashland LHP Eddie Mathis, Bellarmine P Austin Main, Davis and Elkins OF Ryan Wadkins, Drury RHP Colin Gossard, Findlay OF Taylor Huebner, Grand Valley State INF Alex Walts, Hillsdale RHP Max Biedrzycki, Illinois-Springfield 3B Troy Paris, Kentucky Wesleyan RHP David Lemasters, Lake Erie 3B Kurt Becker, Lewis LHP Jordan Yoder, Malone RHP Brandon Downey, Maryville RHP Blake Deatherage, McKendree 1B/OF Dylan Trimarchi, Northwood P Matt Kittelberger, Ohio Dominican OF Ian Sullinger, Ohio Valley P Braden Shull, Quincy 2B Jeremy Lufft, Rockhurst RHP Michael Ellenbest, Saginaw Valley P Colton Lankford, Salem International OF Chase Fieldhouse, St. Joseph’s LHP Wyatt Myers, Tiffin 1B Nick Kristinus, Travecca Nazarene LHP Alec Beuttel, Truman State SS/RHP Colin Hawk, Ulndy OF Justin Busekrus, UMSL P Tyler Jandron, UW-Parkside UT Jared Tobey, Wayne State South Region Pre-Season All-Americans OF/INF Dominic Brugnoni, Florida Southern DH/C Bryant Hatyman, Valdosta SS Mike Reed, Valdosta RHP Trey Oest, Tampa OF/DH Stephen Dezzi, Tampa C Nick Tindall, Tampa RHP David Heintz, Tampa OF/P Will Robertson, Delta State P Jimmy Gutowski, Eckerd P Bill Mendek, Lynn C Alex DeBillis, Lynn Players to Watch INF Chris Dennis, Florida Southern SS Anthony “Trey” Owen, LeMoyne-Owen CF Siosi Poti, Lee 3B/P Mac Cooley, Christian Brothers P Keller Douglas, Spring Hill OF Sixto Guerrero, Claflin 3B Michael Gouge, Valdosta SS Giovanny Alfonzo, Tampa SS JC Cardenas, Barry P Witt Haggard, Delta State P Jared Habershaw, Eckerd 1B/P Kyle Conkle, North Alabama 2B/OF Christian Coburn, Rollins 3B Tom Kain, Lynn P Walker O’Connor, West Florida Newcomers to Watch C/1B Blake Swann, Florida Southern P/OF Terrence “T.J.” Young, LeMoyneOwen OF/P Trent Hill, Lee OF/1B Cameron Coker, Christian Brothers C Alex Jones, Spring Hill RHP Mitchell Cody, Valdosta 3B Nick Flair, Tampa RHP Daniel Broeseker, Barry 1B/3B Ethan Gill, Delta State OF Brandon Pugh, North Alabama P Matt Tulley, Rollins P Kyle Carter, Lynn RF Jean Figueroa, West Florida South Central Region Pre-Season All-Americans 1B Dominick Bregar, CSU-Pueblo 2B Hunter McFall, Lubbock Christian 2B Logan Knox, Regis DH Matthew Chavez, New Mexico Highlands OF Nate Olinger, Colorado Mines OF Matthew Burks, Eastern New Mexico P Collin Sherrod, St. Edward’s P Dalton Brown, St. Edward’s P Brig Gerlich, Lubbock Christian P Matt Delay, Colorado Mesa Players to Watch C Morgan McCasland, New Mexico Highlands C Ty Overboe, Regis C Darryl Baca, Metro State OF Mike Wagner, CSU-Pueblo OF Andrew Arteaga, TAMIU OF Cody Marvel, Colorado Mines OF Tyler Bugner, Newman OF Blake Cooper, Eastern New Mexico P Cam Hatch, St. Edward’s P Matt McClain, St. Mary’s P Lance Fairchild, UTPB SS Jesse Pintado, Lubbock Christian SS Derrick Garcia, Colorado Mesa

Newcomers to Watch 2B Andy Scott, Colorado Mesa 3B Jonathan Davis, St. Edward’s 3B Matt Smith, St. Mary’s C Beau Cebulski, CSU-Pueblo C Griffin Jones, Colorado Mines INF Cesar Rodriguez, Rogers State OF Justin Paul, Eastern New Mexico P Guillaume Blanchette, Lubbock Christian P Julian Garcia, Metro State P Nolan Schattel, UTPB South Atlantic Region Pre-Season All-American RHP Craig Brooks, Catawba RHP Ryan McClintock, Catawba RHP Shaefer Shepard, Catawba DH TJ Wharton, Catawba RHP/OF Ivan Vieitez, Lenoir Rhyne OF Jackson Oliver, Columbus State C Dustin Averett, Columbus State C Steve Hazel, Georgia 1B Clay Ardeeser, Georgia LHP Wesley Camp, Newberry 1B Rob Shipman, Mt. Olive LHP Derek Justice, Mt. Olive OF Tyler Moore, USC-Aiken DH Jack Morrow, Young Harris INF RJ Dennard, Armstrong Atlantic Players to Watch OF Vinny Rodriquez, Montevallo SS Brandon Overstreet, Erskine C/DH Andrew Webster, Barton OF Blake Houston, Catawba 2B Brantley Rumford, Lenoir Rhyne OF Sammy Song, Coker 1B Mike McClellan, Columbus State OF Jake Sandlin, Georgia RHP Brandon Agar, North Georgia CF Drew Cole, UNCP-Pembroke SS Allen Staton, North Greenville 1B Albert Baur, Newberry INF Hunter Bose, Georgia Regents 1B Steven Cooper, Anderson C Justin Manning, Mt. Olive 1B Ty Barkell, USC-Aiken 3B Zach Wall, Young Harris SS Evan Rogers, Mars Hill LHP Daniel Barfield, Francis Marion 2B Andrew Brodbeck, Flaglar 3B Colby Painter, Lander C/OF Anthony Dimino, Belmont Abbey Newcomers to Watch C/INF Collin Dupree, Montevallo RHP Luke Crumley, Erskine UT Hunter Pearre, Barton C/OF Will Albertson, Catawba C/RHP Colby Dishmond, Lenoir Rhyne SS Kyle Simmons, Coker SS Ryan Ihle, Columbus State RHP Cameron Busby, Georgia RHP Dylan Peppers, North Georgia CF Shaq Rolle, North Greenville C Jeff Sneed, Newberry INF Nick Rau, Georgia Regents LHP Nicholas Contafio, Anderson OF/P Jason Morozowski, Mt. Olive RHP Forrest Koumas, USC-Aiken RHP/DH JT Phillips, Armstrong Atlantic RHP Cole Amtmann, Young Harris OF Rayshelon Carolina, Mars Hill LHP Matt Kelley, Francis Marion OF Jon Rodzel, Flaglar P Andrew Reardon, Lander SS Josh Genthe, Belmont Abbey West Region Pre-Season All-Americans 2B Erik Lewis, UC San Diego P Justin Donatella, UC San Diego OF Kelly Starnes, CSU East Bay OF Andy Crowley, California Baptist P Luke Barker, Chico State SS Cody Slader, Chico State P Brad Lohse, Chico State C Peter Miller, Chico State P Brandon Williams, Central Washington 3B Kasey Bielec, Central Washington 1B Kevin Kline, Dixie State P John Conquy, Dixie State P Evan Parker, Dixie State 2B Brody Miller, Montana Billings P Jeff Owen, Monterey Bay C Marcus Mastrobuoni, CSU Stanislaus OF Skip Ferreria, CSU Stanislaus SS William Ouelette, CSU San Bernardino 1B Kamran Young, CSU Dominguez Hills P Wilson Ashford, Fresno Pacific

Players to Watch P/3B Troy Cruz, UC San Diego 1B Daniel Carney, CSU East Bay P Brandon Quintero, CSU Los Angeles DH Nathan Antoun, California Baptist 1B Tyler Madrid, Chico State UT Corey Welch, Central Washington P Joshua Garcia, Hawaii Pacific P Josh Staumont, Azusa Pacific OF Trey Kamachi, Dixie State P Kellen Sheppard, Point Loma Nazarene 1B Kevin Davidson, Monterey Bay P Nick Voumard, CSU Stanislaus SS Zach Larsen, St. Martins P Cory Davis, San Francisco State P Cody Ponce, Cal Poly Pomona 2B Kevin Meriwether, CSU San Bernardino OF Matt Taylor, Western Oregon CF Baron Bower, Fresno Pacific SS Dustin Zeisler, Holy Names C Erik Ehlow, Sonoma State Newcomers to Watch INF Tyler Plantier, UC San Diego C/OF Rudy Navarro, CSU East Bay C Dakota Hernandez, CSU Los Angeles OF Brian Ruhm, California Baptist P Zach Johnson, Central Washington P Harley Holt, Hawaii Pacific P/3B Adrian Tovalin, Azusa Pacific P Porter Clayton, Dixie State SS Tyler Baker, Point Loma Nazarene P Jon Hughes, Monterey Bay P Tyler Murphy, CSU Stanislaus P Riley Moore, St. Martins OF/P Jacob Lopez, San Francisco State OF Kyle Garlick, Cal Poly Pomona INF Cameron Santos, Chico State OF Grant Buchanan, CSU San Bernardino P Jake Martinez, Fresno Pacific

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Page 35

NCAA Division II Preview: Southern Indiana No. 1 from last year’s team,” said Head Coach Joe Urso. “Our top two starting pitchers return to anchor the rotation.”

competitive on paper,” said Head Coach Marc Marizzaldi. “If we stay healthy, we expect to compete near the top of the Atlantic Region.”

3. LANDER

5. COLORADO MESA

2014 FINISH: National champions

2014 RECORD: 52-9

2014 RECORD: 47-13

TOP RETURNEES: OF Hamilton Carr (.347, 1 HR, 11 2B, 16 RBI, 21 SB); OF Kyle Kempf (.342, 4 HR, 21 2B, 36 RBI, 23 SB); C Ryan Bertram (.310, 11 2B, 27 RBI, 1 SB); SS/RP Matt Chavarria (.257, 1 HR, 12 2B, 28 RBI, 10 SB, 14 SV, 5-0, 1.32 ERA, 21 APP, 29 K); 1B Andrew Cope (.245, 6 2B, 29 RBI, 8 SB); OF Tyler Mikrut (.293, 7 2B, 12 RBI, 7 SB); 3B Trent Gunn (.240, 8 2B, 17 RBI, 8 SB); RHP Ben Wright (7-3, 2.00 ERA, 94.1 IP, 29 K, 16 BB); RP Andrew Mercer (3-1, 1.01 ERA, 21 APP, 21 K, 13 BB).

2014 FINISH: Tied for fifth at NCAA Division II World Series

2014 FINISH: Second place at NCAA Division II World Series

TOP RETURNEES: DH Thomas Berry (.348, 6 HR, 18 2B, 54 RBI); OF Weston Lawing (.319, 6 HR, 23 2B, 58 RBI, 6 SB); 3B Colby Painter (.332, 11 HR, 16 2B, 67 RBI, 1 SB); C Chris Hyatt (.145, 2 HR, 2 2B, 19 RBI); RHP Taylor Alvarez (10-3, 4.50 ERA, 96 IP, 51 K, 25 BB); RP Brandon White (12 SV, 4-2, 0.89 ERA, 29 APP, 51 K, 19 BB).

TOP RETURNEES: C Austin Wallingford (.384, 5 HR, 10 2B, 35 RBI, 10 SB); 1B Kevin Mitchell (.286, 3 HR, 9 2B, 23 RBI, 1 SB); 2B Derrick Garcia (.400, 3 HR, 11 2B, 40 RBI, 3 SB); 3B Kevan Elcock (.240, 2 HR, 7 2B, 15 RBI); RHP Matt Delay (9-0, 3.57 ERA, 90 IP, 56 K, 25 BB); LHP Ryan Reno (3-2, 4.50 ERA, 42 IP, 21 K, 9 BB, 1 SV); LHP Tyler Ehlers (2-0, 2.95 ERA, 18 IP, 13 K, 4 BB); RP Matt Allen (4 SV, 7-2, 2.98 ERA, 17 APP, 43 K, 14 BB); RP Dakota Behr (6 SV, 1-2, 4.37 ERA, 20 APP, 21 K, 5 BB).

1. SOUTHERN INDIANA

COACH: Tracy Archuleta (312-150 in 8 years with the Screaming Eagles; 460-274 overall) 2014 RECORD: 49-13

COACH: Kermit Smith (178-92 with the Bearcats; 407-317-1 overall)

TOP NEWCOMERS: 2B Joe Redburn (Univ of Evansville); RHP Lucas Barnett (Lee Univ); SS/P Sean Pedley (Southern Indiana); DH Jaylan Quarles (Southeastern Illinois); RHP Thad Decker (Olney CC).

KEY LOSSES: P/DH Jon Wandling (10-1, 2.90 ERA); P David Toth (6-1, 1.47 ERA); P/INF Matt Bowles (9-4, 3.18 ERA, .235 BA); OF Brent Weinzapfel (.297, 30 RBI); 2B Caleb Eickhoff (.300, 26 RBI).

2015 OUTLOOK: The defending national champions rolled to a 49-13 record last season and return seven position player starters and two key pitchers. “We return a lot of experienced position players led by OF Kyle Kempf (.342, 21 2B, 36 RBI, 23 SB). On the mound, we return Ben Wright (7-3, 2.00 ERA) and Matt Chavarria (14 SV, 5-0, 1.32 ERA),” said Head Coach Tracy Archuleta. The Screaming Eagles landed a superb recruiting class of 12 players which will make Southern Indiana a serious contender for the national title once again.

TOP NEWCOMERS: LHP Andrew Reardon (USC-Sumter); 1B Colby Lusignan (Santa Fe CC); OF Zach Daly (Univ of North Carolina); C John Mangum (NC State); RHP Cameron Tekker (Univ of Virginia); 2B Matt White (Spartanburg Methodist).

KEY LOSSES: RHP Dylan Wolchik (12-1, 3.37 ERA, 120.1 IP, 94 K); OF Pat Grady (.386, 9 HR, 25 2B, 49 RBI, 16 SB); SS Erik Lunde (.369, 14 HR, 20 2B, 52 RBI, 9 SB); RHP Mason McCullough (5-1, 4.59 ERA, 64.2 IP, 87 K); LHP Ryan Jones (10-0, 80.2 IP, 54 K, 1 SV).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Bearcats posted a 52-9 record last season and return four position player starters and two key pitchers, including RHP Brandon White (12 SV, 4-2, 0.89 ERA, 51K, 19 BB). Third baseman Colby Painter is also back. Last season he belted 16 doubles and knocked in 58 runs.

“We had to bring in some older guys to replace what we lost,” said Head Coach Kermit Smith. “Because of that, we are really focusing on teaching our system. How quickly they pick up on that will determine the threshold of this team. We are talented enough to get back to Cary, N.C.”

COACH: Chris Hanks (647-294 in 16 years with the Mavericks)

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Nick Cardinale (Foothill HS, NV); SS Zach McLeod (Mission Viejo HS, CA); 2B Andy Scott (Texas-Arlington); OF James Young (CC of Southern Nevada); OF Bligh Madris (Foothill HS, NV); OF Alex Fife (Western Nevada JC).

KEY LOSSES: OF Austin Kaiser (ABCA National Player of the Year); Tino Martinez Award); SS Nate Robertson (All-American); RHP Kyle Davis (First Team All-Conference); OF Garrett Carpenter (First Team All-Conference); RHP Joey Danner (All-Conference).

4. SETON HILL

2015 OUTLOOK: The Mavericks rolled to a 47-13 record last season and finished second at the NCAA Division II World Series. Four position player starters are back along with five quality pitchers headed by RHP Matt Delay (9-0, 3.57 ERA). One position player to watch is C Austin Wallingford (.384, 5 HR, 10 2B, 35 RBI). “A solid pitching staff returns with good depth,” said Head Coach Chris Hanks. “A small group of key position players return and will be complimented by an influx of new, young players. Good talent in the recruiting class should offer a chance for success. This will be a team that should develop as the season develops.”

2014 FINISH: Tied for third in NCAA Division II World Series

2014 RECORD: 41-17

TOP RETURNEES: OF Stephen Dezzi (.369, 8 HR, 15 2B, 47 RBI, 2 SB); SS Giovanny Alfonzo (.317, 1 HR, 9 2B, 31 RBI, 9 SB); C Nick Tindall (.308, 11 HR, 16 2B, 42 RBI, 3 SB); RHP David Heintz (10-0, 2.08 ERA, 95.1 IP, 61 K, 19 BB); RHP Trey Oest (9-0, 2.43 ERA, 74 IP, 58 K, 8 BB); RP Chase Sparkman (1 SV, 4-1, 3.56 ERA, 15 APP, 26 K, 2 BB); RP Michael Calkins (6-0, 1.23 ERA, 14 APP, 21 K, 11 BB).

6. EMPORIA ST.

2014 FINISH: Tied for fifth at NCAA Division II World Series

2. TAMPA

COACH: Joe Urso (621-180-1 in 14 years with the Spartans) 2014 RECORD: 54-4

COACH: Marc Marizzaldi (377-211 in 11 years with the Griffins)

TOP NEWCOMERS: 3B Nick Flair (Gulf Coast State College); 1B Keaton Aldridge (Univ of Memphis); 2B Cody de Noyelles (Polk State College); OF Casey Scoggins (Santa Fe College); OF Andrew Amaro (Univ of Maryland); RHP Kevin Martin (Santa Fe College).

KEY LOSSES: 2B Tyler Ding (.389, 2 HR, 40 RBI); OF Michael Danner (.326, 8 HR, 46 RBI); 1B Sean O’Brien (.318, 4 HR, 43 RBI); RHP Preston Packrall (11-0, 2.12 ERA, 45 K); RHP Kevin McNorton (7-2, 1.82 ERA, 13 SV, 38 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: Tampa rolled to an amazing 54-4 record last season and was ranked No. 1 the entire season heading into the playoffs but finished tied for third at the NCAA Division II College World Series. Only three position player starters return, but four superb pitchers are back. Factor in a great recruiting class of 16 players, and the Spartans should be contention for the national title. “Team chemistry will be big after losing eight key members

TOP RETURNEES: OF Cody Herald (.346, 4 HR, 16 2B, 30 RBI, 20 SB); OF Taylor Schmidt (.326, 4 2B, 23 RBI, 35 SB); 3B Nick Sell (.330, 7 HR, 13 2B, 38 RBI, 12 SB); 2B Garrett Vrbanic (.321, 3 2B, 15 RBI, 10 SB); 1B Matt Malacane (.316, 1 HR, 4 2B, 24 RBI, 11 SB); C Anthony Fanelli (.312, 9 2B, 18 RBI, 5 SB); DH Chris Miller (.315, 2 HR, 9 2B, 37 RBI, 6 SB); 2B Pat McCarthy (red-shirt); RHP Mike Bittel (9-2, 1.82 ERA, 74.1 IP, 54 K, 24 BB, 1 SV); RHP Jordan Fuller (5-2, 2.91 ERA, 52.2 IP, 37 K, 17 BB); RHP Brett Sullivan (8-3, 4.02 ERA, 69.1 IP, 39 K, 14 BB); RP Jesse Cooper (17 SV, 1-2, 1.50 ERA, 23 APP, 11 K, 2 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF/3B Ryan Wardropper (Elizabeth HS, PA); RHP Perry Della Valle (North Royalton HS, OH).

KEY LOSSES: SS Brendan Costantino (4-Time All-Conference); SP Alex Haines (2-Time WVIAC Pitcher of the Year).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Griffins posted a 41-17 overall record last season and return seven position player starters and four superb pitchers headed

by RHP Mike Bittel (9-2, 1.82 ERA) and closer Jesse Cooper (17 SV, 1.50 ERA). One position player to watch is rightfielder Cody Herald (.346, 16 2B, 30 RBI, 20 SB). “We return many experienced upperclassmen and look

COACH: Bob Fornelli (446-194 in 11 years with the Hornets; 752-307 overall) 2014 RECORD: 42-19 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: OF Justin Harris (.329, 3 HR, 11 2B, 44 RBI, 44 SB); OF Price Jacobs (.342, 9 HR, 8 2B, 35 RBI, 11 SB); OF Wade Hanna (.311, 3 HR, 8 2B, 31 RBI, 16 SB); 3B Dean Long (.309, 14 HR, 14 2B, 64 RBI, 20 SB); 2B Levi Parker (.291, 3 HR, 11 2B, 27 RBI, 32 SB); 1B Aaron Gile (.294, 8 HR, 8 2B, 30 RBI, 5 SB); C Tory Bell (.212, 7 HR, 4 2B, 26 RBI, 1 SB); INF Jordan Hodges (.290, 7 2B, 16 RBI, 1 SB); RHP Shawn Talkington (9-2, 2.85 ERA, 82 IP, 76 K, 17 BB, 1 SV); LHP Jarrod Miller (7-6, 3.63 ERA, 79 IP, 77 K, 21 BB); LHP Travis Hendry (2-1, 3.50 ERA, 54 IP, 44 K, 10 BB); RP Matt Hinkley (2-1, 4.22 ERA, 28 K, 7 BB); RP Garrett Bane (1 SV, 3-1, 4.34 ERA, 8 APP, 12 K, 12 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 1B Evan Koehler (Butler County CC); OF Dalton Wheat (Butler County CC); INF Cody Bobbitt (Wichita State); RHP Garrett Brummett (Wichita State); C Garrett McKinzie (Kansas City CC); LHP Jake Eikleberry (Garden City CC); RHP Teven Rinken (Little River HS, KS).

Continued On Page 36

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Page 36

Collegiate Baseball

Continued From Page 35

2014 RECORD: 30-26

KEY LOSSES: SS Toby Cornejo (team leader); RHP Dakota McKaskie (All-Conference); RHP Brenton Hibbins (All-Conference, All-Region).

2014 FINISH: Runners-Up in Great Lakes Valley Conference

2015 OUTLOOK: The Hornets posted a 42-19 overall record last season and return seven position player starters and seven quality pitchers headed

by RHP Shawn Talkington (9-2, 2.85 ERA, 76 K, 17 BB). “We have a very talented group with a host of players back from last year’s team,” said Head Coach Bob Fornelli. One position player to watch is 3B Dean Long. “He is a great athlete who led the league in RBIs last season (64).”

7. MINNESOTA ST.

COACH: Matt Magers (262-75 in 6 years with the Mavericks)

TOP RETURNEES: C Gordy Gundaker (.190 BA); 1B David Jacob (.439 BA); 2B Kory Wisdom (.357, 14 2B, 3 HR, 31 RBI); 3B Peter Cunningham (.256 BA); OF Dominic Miles (.308, 7 2B, 19 RBI); DH Zach Knese (.258, 8 2B, 17 RBI); LHP Jake Peterson (7-2, 1.95 ERA, 78.1 IP, 60 K); RHP Cody King (5-2, 1.51 ERA, 59.2 IP, 43 K); RHP Graham Spraker (4-1, 2.37 ERA, 45.2 IP, 28 K); RP Jake Wehde (2-3, 4.06 ERA, 23 APP, 44.1 IP, 28 K); RP Teddy Rule (redshirt).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Tommy Hager (Austin Peay); OF Justin Blechle (Jefferson College); SS Brynn Martinez (Sagemont HS, FL); C Ryan Snyder (Central Missouri); LHP Braden Shull (Philadelphia Phillies); DH JP Meyer (Illinois Central College).

2014 FINISH: Tied for third at NCAA Division II World Series

KEY LOSSES: OF Mitchell Broughton (All-time hits and doubles leader at Quincy); SS Kenny May (2-year All-Conference); RP Matt Fishman (First Team All-Conference).

TOP RETURNEES: C Nolan Johnson (.365, 5 HR, 20 2B, 55 RBI, 5 SB); 2B Eric Peterson (.310, 4 HR, 10 2B, 33 RBI, 19 SB); 3B Connor McCallum (.275, 2 HR, 9 2B, 31 RBI, 6 SB); OF Taylor Branstad (.311, 1 HR, 12 2B, 28 RBI, 5 SB); OF Max Waletich (.355, 1 HR, 12 2B, 40 RBI, 9 SB); LHP Matt Geislinger (4-0, 2.74 ERA, 23 IP, 32 K, 5 BB, 6 SV); RHP Mitch Bauer (0-0, 1.80 ERA, 10 IP, 12 K, 2 BB); RP Tyler Frohwirth (2-0, 3.38 ERA, 11 APP, 10 K, 4 BB).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Hawks return six position player starters and 11 key pitchers from last season, including LHP Jake Peterson (7-2, 1.95 ERA and RHP Cody King (5-2, 1.51 ERA). One superb position player to watch is 1B David Jacob who hit .439 last season. His freshman season last year was cut short by a torn ACL. “We need to pitch and field at the level we did last year,” said Head Coach Josh Rabe. “If that happens, the offense should be better with the incoming group.”

TOP NEWCOMERS: INF Kyle Toth (Univ. of Mississippi); RHP Nick Veale (Northern Iowa Area CC); OF Chase Lonetti (DCTC); INF Dylan Dresel (redshirt); LHP Aaron Rozek (redshirt); INF Josh Crosby (redshirt); OF Josh Wenzel (redshirt).

12. COLUMBUS ST.

2014 RECORD: 48-11

COACH: Greg Appleton (618-346 in 17 years with the Cougars)

KEY LOSSES: P Jason Hoppe (Three Pitcher of the Year awards); 1B Stetson Olson (Central Regional MVP); SS Todd Standish (All-American); P Bryce Bellin (All-Region); P TJ Larson (6-3, 3.27 ERA, 52.1 IP, 62 K).

2014 RECORD: 40-17

2015 OUTLOOK: The Mavericks were rolled to a 48-11 overall record last season and finished tied for third at the NCAA Division II World Series. Five position player starters are back featuring C Nolan Johnson (.365, 20 2B, 55 RBI). An outstanding recruiting class of 12 athletes will infuse plenty of talent into the lineup. The team returns many key position players but will be inexperienced on the mound,” said Head Coach Matt Magers. “We aspire to be playing our best baseball at the end of the year and hope to be in a position to win the conference championship and return to Cary, N.C.”

TOP RETURNEES: OF Jackson Oliver (.386, 4 HR, 17 2B, 56 RBI, 23 SB); 1B Mike McClellan (.373, 13 HR, 9 2B, 43 RBI); 3B Blake Edwards (.346, 3 HR, 12 2B, 36 RBI, 14 SB); SS Carson Bowers (.344, 5 HR, 10 2B, 31 RBI, 6 SB); OF Brendan Collins (.340, 5 HR, 11 2B, 42 RBI, 26 SB); C Dustin Averett (.319, 10 HR, 15 2B, 62 RBI); RHP Mike McGinnity (7-2, 3.73 ERA, 94 IP, 52 K, 26 BB); RHP Bryan Headley (9-3, 4.72 ERA, 66.2 IP, 38 K, 30 BB); LHP Caden Ferguson (5-4, 4.20 ERA, 79.1 IP, 74 K, 40 BB); RP Trey Watson (11 SV, 6-1, 2.48 ERA, 24 APP, 32 K, 16 BB); RP Sean Muller (1 SV, 4-2, 2.63 ERA, 22 APP, 29 K, 11 BB).

8. CHICO ST.

TOP NEWCOMERS: SS Ryan Ihle (Colby CC); 1B Chris Daniel (Southern Union CC); 3B Christian Miller (Abraham Baldwin CC); RHP Kyle Peals (West Georgia Tech).

COACH: Dave Taylor (309-145 in 8 years with the Wildcats; 424-239-1 overall) 2014 RECORD: 43-15 2014 FINISH: Tied for seventh at NCAA Division II World Series TOP RETURNEES: C Peter Miller (.320, 2 HR, 6 2B, 28 RBI, 2 SB); 1B Tyler Madrid (.295, 5 HR, 4 2B, 27 RBI, 1 SB); OF Connor Huesers (.290, 1 HR, 7 2B, 15 RBI); SS Cody Slader (.273, 6 2B, 21 RBI, 19 SB); RHP Brad Lohse (8-0, 1.94 ERA, 78 IP, 32 K, 11 BB); RP Luke Barker (18 SV, 4-3, 2.18 ERA, 35 APP, 50 K, 10 BB); RP Robert Hook (8-3, 3.44 ERA, 20 APP, 27 K, 13 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Alex Michaels (Cal Poly SLO); 2B Cam Santos (California HS, CA); 2B/3B Casey Bennett (Saddleback JC); LHP Jace Pulkett (San Jose State); RHP Hunter Haworth (San Benito HS, CA); RHP Torgen Soderlund (Mesa CC); INF Andrew Carrillo (Azusa Pacific).

KEY LOSSES: P Nick Baker (Friday pitchers, 4-year starter, All-Region); OF Ryne Clark (Lead-off hitter, 2-year starter); 1B Eric Angerer.

2015 OUTLOOK: The Wildcats posted a 43-15 record last season and finished tied for seventh at the NCAA Division II World Series. Four position player starters are back along with three key pitchers including RHP Brad Lohse (8-0, 1.94 ERA). One terrific position player back is SS Cody Slader who was the national Defensive Player of The Year. “We are young as we have ever been,” said Head Coach Dave Taylor. “But we have good senior leadership. We are going to have good pitching depth, and we are going to have to play catch and apply pressure on the bases.”

9. SOUTHERN ARKANSAS COACH: Steve Browning (154-69 with the Muleriders) 2014 RECORD: 39-19 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: 3B Jon Phillips (.346, 11 2B, 30 RBI, 8 SB); OF Trevor Rucker (.342, 6 HR, 15 2B, 37 RBI, 35 SB); OF William Townsend (.316, 9 2B, 15 SB); 1B Carver Rademacher (.308, 9 HR, 18 2B, 47 RBI); C Justin Buchanan (.280 BA); 2B Chase Harvey (.263 BA); DH Korey Keith (.267 BA); LHP Timothy Buchanan (7-4, 4.14 ERA, 95.2 IP, 89 K, 22 BB, 1 SV); RHP Yumezo Densaki (5-4, 3.51 ERA, 74.1 IP, 61 K, 19 BB); RHP Janson Carr (5-2, 2.23 ERA, 44.1 IP, 36 K, 9 BB); RP Preston Gray (10 SV, 4-3, 3.22 ERA, 25 APP, 34 K, 10 BB); RP Colton Strother (4-0, 32 IP, 14 APP).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Byron Reichstein (West Virginia); C/OF Billy Germaine (Hill College); P Landon Simpson (Univ of Arkansas); P Jace Powers (Arkansas Baptist); P Travis Johnson (Tyler JC).

KEY LOSSES: P Dylan Lynn (11-1, 112 IP); SS Tyler Cameron (.338, 8 HR, 14 SB, 58 R).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Muleriders return seven position player starters and five quality pitchers from a team that posted a 39-19 record last season.

“We will be a very balanced team,” said Head Coach Steve Browning.

“Our lineup has great flow and can score in many different ways. Our team defense and pitching depth will be a major plus for this group.”

10. FRANKLIN PIERCE

COACH: Jayson King (558-278-3 with the Ravens; 579-325-3 overall) 2014 RECORD: 35-18 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: 1B Matt O’Herron (.308, 1 HR, 9 2B, 29 RBI, 8 SB); C Matt Walsh (.303, 7 HR, 12 2B, 40 RBI, 5 SB); 2B Kyle Hood (.288, 5 2B, 26 RBI, 9 SB); OF Chris Lavorgna (.282, 3 HR, 10 2B, 25 RBI, 27 SB); OF John Razzino (.264, 4 HR, 4 2B, 34 RBI, 45 SB); SS Justin Brock (.245, 3 HR, 1 2B, 16 RBI, 17 SB); 3B Jamison Jabs (.219, 5 HR, 8 2B, 27 RBI, 9 SB); RHP Conor Gleason (5-3, 2.71 ERA, 63 IP, 95 K, 44 BB); RHP Brendan O’Rourke (7-2, 2.42 ERA, 70 IP, 79 K, 24 BB); RHP Paul Covelle (4-2, 3.62 ERA, 59.2 IP, 56 K, 21 BB); RP Doug Willey (12 SV, 1-1, 1.85 ERA, 26 APP, 31 K, 13 BB); RP Paul Fahey (4-3, 2.84 ERA, 18 APP, 35 K, 14 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Maxx Sheehan (West Valley CC); C/DH Chris Stanford (Champlain St. Lawrence, Canada); LHP Joe Provencher (redshirt); RHP Anthony Matarazzo (Malden Catholic HS, MA); RHP Luke Brennan (Doherty HS, MA); SS/INF Garet Griffin (Plainfield HS, CT); RHP Dylan Dennis (redshirt).

KEY LOSSES: OF Calvin Graves (All-Conference, All-Region); C/DH Marty Dunlap (.287, 10 2B).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Ravens return seven position player starters and four key pitchers from a team which posted a 35-18 record last season.

One exciting player to watch is OF John Razzino who swiped 45 bases last season. “Pitching should be a strength to go along with a very good defense and offense,” said Head Coach Jayson King. “We have a lot of speed.”

11. QUINCY

COACH: Josh Rabe (121-87 with the Hawks)

2014 FINISH: Runnerup in Southeast Regional

KEY LOSSES: 2B Jimmy Obermark (All-Conference).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Cougars posted a 40-17 record last season and return eight position player starters and five exceptional pitchers. One position player to keep an eye on is lefthanded hitting RF Jackson Oliver (.386, 4 HR, 17 2B, 56 RBI, 23 SB). “We have a very experienced squad (all juniors and seniors),” said Head Coach Greg Apppleton. “Our starting pitching needs improvement to take the next step. We have a solid defensive team and good hitting.”

13. MOUNT OLIVE

COACH: Carl Lancaster (979-424-1 with the Trojans) 2014 RECORD: 40-13 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Justin Manning (.363, 4 HR, 18 2B, 39 RBI, 1 SB); 1B Rob Shipman (.388, 10 HR, 8 2B, 54 RBI, 2 SB); 2B Zak Orrison (.286, 2 HR, 10 2B, 35 RBI, 22 SB); SS DeAndre Allen (.304, 2 HR, 12 2B, 42 RBI, 13 SB); INF Cody Britt (.292, 13 2B, 31 RBI, 14 SB); LHP Derek Justic (9-2, 3.79 ERA, 80.2 IP, 65 K, 25 BB, 1 SV); LHP Gunnar Kines (7-1, 3.59 ERA, 62.2 IP, 51 K, 19 BB); RHP Kody Whitley (6-2, 2.74 ERA, 72.1 IP, 46 K, 21 BB); RP Jordy Farthing (6-0, 4.82 ERA, 13 APP, 35 K, 20 BB); RP Hunter Barnett (1-0, 5.14 ERA, 8 APP, 22 K, 5 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Jason Morozowski (Florida International); 3B Stephen Wallace (Winthrop, SC); LHP Carlos Rodriguez (Central Arizona); UT Joe Koehler (St. Petersburg College); OF Chris LuDuc (St. Johns River College); RHP Jose Serrano (Polk CC); RHP Ethan Horne (Richlands HS, NC).

KEY LOSSES: OF Jay Gonzalez (First Team All-American); OF Braden Reitano (Two Time All-American); LHP Brody McDonald (3.24 ERA, 33 IP, 24 K); LHP Zach Bernard (30 IP, 33K, 5 BB, 6 SV); RHP Deshorn Lake (pro contract).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Trojans return five position player starters and four key pitchers. One key newcomer is CF/P Jason Morozowski, a transfer from Florida International University where he only pitched. He is very athletic and runs a 6.6 60 and shows good power at the plate. On the mound, he has hit 93 mph with his fastball. “The team has some depth, especially up the middle,” said Head Coach Carl Lancaster. “We have some good middle of the order bats back and the entire starting rotation. With the addition of transfers, we feel like we can make a good run in the post season.”

14. USC AIKEN

COACH: Kenny Thomas (545-307 in 14 years with the Pacers) 2014 RECORD: 36-17 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: 1B Ty Barkell (.343, 10 HR, 15 2B, 58 RBI, 7 SB); SS Sean Miller (.379, 1 HR, 7 2B, 37 RBI, 13 SB); 3B TJ Costen (.297, 9 HR, 9 2B, 58 RBI, 18 SB); OF Matt Bosse (.306, 10 HR, 14 2B, 54 RBI, 10 SB); OF Kody Belcher (.299, 3 HR, 8 2B, 27 RBI, 24 SB); OF Tyler Moore (.377, 3 HR, 9 2B, 42 RBI, 13 SB); C Charlie Padilla (.261, 3 2B, 13 RBI); RHP Nick Yobbi (3-1, 5.35 ERA, 38.2 IP, 27 K 14 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 2B Rob Youngblood (Georgia); P Forrest Koumas.

KEY LOSSES: 2B Ryan Metzler; P Derek Beasley; P Danny Wissmann; P Caleb Smith.

2015 OUTLOOK: The Pacers return seven position player starters from a team which rolled to a 36-17 overall record last season. Even though only one key pitcher is back, a superb recruiting class of 20 players will make USC Aiken formidable once again.

15. U.C. SAN DIEGO

COACH: Eric Newman (97-64 in 3 years with the Tritons; 192-136 overall) 2014 RECORD: 38-16 2014 FINISH: Participated in West Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Brett Levy (.292, 6 2B, 28 RBI); 1B Michael Mann (.290, 1 HR, 9 2B, 38 RBI); 2B Erik Lewis (.359, 6 2B, 41 RBI, 2 SB); 3B/ RHP Troy Cruz (.326, 11 2B, 39 RBI, 9 SB, 8-3, 2.90 ERA, 87 IP, 48 K, 20 BB); OF Jack Larsen (.269, 1 HR, 5 2B, 13 RBI, 2 SB); OF Brandon Shirley (.319, 2 HR, 9 2B, 23 RBI, 7 SB); RHP Justin Donatella (8-2, 2.59 ERA, 73 IP, 59 K, 20 BB); LHP Trevor Scott (7-2, 3.61 ERA, 84.2 IP, 51 K, 21 BB); RP Chad Rieser (3-1, 4.37 ERA, 21 APP, 26 K, 11 BB); RP Dan Kolodin (2 SV, 3-2, 4.89 ERA, 20 APP, 28 K, 20 BB).

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

2015 NCAA Div. II Baseball Top 40

Rank School (2014 Record) Points 1. Southern Indiana (49-13) 625 2. Tampa (54-4) 623 3. Lander (52-9) 620 4. Seton Hill (41-17) 618 5. Colorado Mesa (47-13) 616 6. Emporia St. (42-19) 613 7. Minnesota St. (48-11) 611 8. Chico St. (43-15) 610 9. Southern Arkansas (39-19) 607 10. Franklin Pierce (35-18) 604 Second Ten 11. Quincy (30-26) 599 12. Columbus St. (40-17) 597 13. Mount Olive (40-13) 594 14. USC Aiken (36-17) 592 15. U.C. San Diego (38-16) 590 16. Florida Southern (35-19) 589 17. Arkansas Tech. (44-12) 587 18. Drury (44-13) 584 19. Texas A&M-Kingsville (38-20) 582 20. Lynn (35-16) 579 Cal. Poly Pomona (32-17) 579 Third Ten 21. Alabama Huntsville (41-16) 576 22. Central Missouri (35-16) 574 23. Southern New Hampshire (41-14) 573 24. St. Thomas Aquinas (38-18) 572 25. Mercyhurst (30-15) 570 26. Georgia College (35-17) 569 27. Trevecca Nazarene (43-14) 567 28. Grand Valley St. (39-13) 566 29. California Baptist (39-15) 563 30. Delta St. (38-13) 560 Fourth Ten 31. St. Cloud St. (37-14) 558 32. Millersville (39-16) 556 33. Augustana (41-16) 553 34. St. Edward’s, TX (39-16) 550 35. West Florida (34-11) 548 36. Fresno Pacific (39-19) 546 37. Lee (37-19) 543 38. St. Mary’s, TX (35-20) 542 39. West Texas A&M (37-21) 539 40. Lubbock Christian (39-10) 537 Also Receiving Votes: Armstrong Atlantic St., Slippery Rock, Wayne St. (MI), Catawba, Dowling, Shippensburg, Felician, Wingate, Erskine, St. Leo, Angelo St., Tarleton St., New Mexico Highlands, Point Loma Nazarene, Wilmington, Stonehill, Ashland, Southern Connecticut, Lewis, Nova Southeastern, Missouri-St. Louis, West Alabama, Valdosta St., Arkansas Monticello, Central Oklahoma, Oklahoma Christian, New Haven, Indianapolis, Pace, Lake Erie, Nebraska-Kearney, Shepherd, Missouri Western, Winston Salem St., California (PA), Kutztown, West Chester, Tusculum.

Source: NCAA Division II Poll Committee Region, All-Conference); RP Scott Zeman (9 SV, 4-2, 2.87 ERA, 25 APP, 27 K); SS Garrett Tuck (.236, 4 2B, 22 RBI, 25 R); SP Blake Fassler (4-3, 2.41 ERA, 12 GS, 56 IP, 34 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Tritons return six position player starters and three superb starting pitchers led by RHP Justin Donatella (8-2, 2.59 ERA). One player who does it all is back in Troy Cruz. He was 8-3 with a 2.90 ERA on the mound last season and hit .326 with 11 doubles and 39 RBI. “We have a chance to be really good,” said Head Coach Eric Newman. “It will come down to developing some of our young pitching and our bullpen. We also need to replace our middle of the lineup guys.”

16. FLORIDA SOUTHERN

COACH: Lance Niekro (53-47 in 2 years with the Moccasins) 2014 RECORD: 35-19 2014 FINISH: Runners-Up in South Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Joey Miller (.294, 3 HR, 7 2B, 27 RBI); 3B Chris Dennis (.333, 3 HR, 13 2B, 39 RBI, 3 SB); SS Casey Eddinger (.223, 4 2B, 11 RBI, 2 SB); OF Dominic Brugnoni (.340, 5 HR, 8 2B, 42 RBI, 1 SB); RHP Ben Richardson (8-6, 3.14 ERA, 97.1 IP, 55 K, 20 BB); RP Casey Eskew (1 SV, 0-2, 2.37 ERA, 17 APP, 13 K, 10 BB); RP Craig Savage (4-0, 1.69 ERA, 10 APP, 12 K, 8 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: C Blake Swann (Florida Southern College); 1B Same Machonis (Polk State); OF David Lugo (College of Central Florida); SP Jason Carmichael (Univ of Florida); OF Jhalen Jackson (Hillsborough CC); SP Brady Arenson (Palm Beach State).

KEY LOSSES: OF Keith Curico (Gold Glove winner); 1B Trey Vavra (AllSouth Region); 2B Conor Szczerba (Gold Glove winner as junior); RP Nate Carter (2nd Team All-Conference); SP Clay Chapman (2nd Team All-Conference).

TOP NEWCOMERS: INF Zach Friedman (Pierce College); INF Tyler Plantier (Del Norte HS, CA); OF Cooper Herrera (Mission Viejo HS, CA); RHP Tristan Tardiff (Laguna Hills HS, CA); RHP Anthony Sommer (Aliso Niguel HS, CA); RHP Troy Forester (Palomar College).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Moccasins posted a 35-19 record last season and return four position player starters and three key pitchers. One player to watch is 3B Chris Dennis who hit .333 with 13 doubles and 39 RBI last season. A quality returning pitcher is RHP Ben Richardson (8-6, 3.14 ERA, 55 K, 20 BB) who is expected to be the ace of the staff in 2015. Florida Southern also landed a superb recruiting class of 12 players which has infused some quality talent into the program..

KEY LOSSES: DH Nick La Face (HM All-American); OF Justin Rahn (All-

Continued On Page 37

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Page 37

2014 RECORD: 35-16

Continued From Page 36

2014 FINISH: Participated in MIAA Tournament

17. ARKANSAS TECH.

TOP RETURNEES: OF Jake Alexander (.383, 5 2B, 35 RBI, 2 SB); OF Trevor Jones (.366, 8 2B, 4 3B, 2 HR, 30 RBI, 16 SB); 3B Tony Sandifer (.366, 9 2B, 4 HR, 48 RBI, 4 SB); 1B Dylan Hanson (.299, 3 2B, 8 RBI); 2B Dusty Maas (.246, 5 2B, 15 RBI, 10 SB); SS Brad Jelinek (.229, 4 2B, 2 HR, 19 RBI, 4 SB); RHP Ricky Rivera (6-1, 3.79 ERA, 61.2 IP, 40 K, 26 BB); RHP Jake Heissler (4-1, 2.58 ERA, 38.1 IP, 40 K, 4 BB).

COACH: David Dawson (169-98 in 5 years with the Wonderboys; 284192 overall) 2014 RECORD: 44-12 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional

TOP NEWCOMERS: LHP Tyler House (Univ of Missouri); RHP Carlos D’Armas (Coffeyville CC); OF Dylan Farrell (Longview CC); RHP Trever Ezell (Butler CC); INF Bennett Oliver (Hutchinson CC).

TOP RETURNEES: C/1B Patrick Castleberry (.303, 6 HR, 17 2B, 37 RBI); DH Kris Ayers (.331, 4 HR, 12 2B, 43 RBI); 2B Johnny Lassiter (.265, 5 2B, 20 RBI, 10 SB); C Keenan Jumper (.267, 3 2B, 15 RBI, 1 SB); LHP Aaron Johnson (6-3, 4.30 ERA, 73.1 IP, 64 K, 45 BB); RHP Trent Armstrong (7-1, 2.54 ERA, 56.2 IP, 37 K, 11 BB); RP Randy Vallejo (18 SV, 2.43 ERA, 28 APP, 16 K, 12 BB); RP Bryson Morris (0-0 2.45 ERA, 9 APP, 6 K, 2 BB).

KEY LOSSES: OF Brad Wilson (HM All-American); SP Kyle Gehrs (1st Team All-Conference); RP Zach Davis (2nd Team All-Conference, 12 SV).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Mules return six position player starters and two key pitchers from a team which posted a 35-16 record last season. Two key players to watch include 3B Tony Sandifer (.366, 4 HR, 9 2B, 48 RBI) and CF Trevor Jones (.366, 2 HR, 8 2B, 4 3B, 30 RBI, 16 SB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Bryan Heward (Brigham Young Univ); RHP Ryan Vruggink (Univ of Houston); LHP Cody Jones (Crowder College); RHP Geoffrey Birkemeier (Kansas City CC); 3B Caleb McKinnon (Paradise Valley CC); SS Collin O’Neil (Paradise Valley CC); OF Blake Owen (Blanchard HS, OK).

23. S. NEW HAMPSHIRE

KEY LOSSES: RHP Ryan Taylor (6-2, 3.55 ERA, 86 K); OF Sage Boehner (.346, 12 2B, 35 RBI, 13 SB); SS James Sharp (.289, 10 2B, 26 RBI, 13 SB); 1B Mike Kattula (.357, 6 HR, 16 2B, 37 RBI); LHP Jake Bell (1.71 ERA, 33 APP, 32 K, 10 BB).

COACH: Scott Loiseau (176-121-2 in 6 years with the Penmen) 2014 RECORD: 41-14 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional

2015 OUTLOOK: The Wonderboys rolled to a 44-12 record last season and return four position player starters and four key pitchers including closer Randy Vallejo (18 SV, 2.43 ERA). Another player to watch is C Patrick Castleberry who belted 6 homers and 17 doubles last season. “We have a talented team that will be challenged with a very tough schedule,” said Head Coach David Dawson. “We should have a solid pitching staff and a good defense. Offensively, we will need to make adjustments and improve our approach.”

18. DRURY

COACH: Scott Nasby (83-30 with Drury) 2014 RECORD: 44-13 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: 1B Luke Tewes (.354, 7 HR, 15 2B, 62 RBI, 2 SB); 2B/RHP Ryan Colombo (.305, 2 2B, 12 RBI, 2 SB, 6-1, 2.89 ERA, 46.2 IP, 54 K, 28 BB); OF Dallas Williams (.356, 5 2B, 8 RBI, 5 SB); C Tyler Arthur (.270, 3 HR, 5 2B, 32 RBI); RHP Trevor Richards (8-2, 1.71 ERA, 84 IP, 73 K, 15 BB); RHP Austin Faulconer (8-2, 3.11 ERA, 66 IP, 42 K, 20 BB); RP Gage Jacobs (0-1, 1.88 ERA, 28.2 IP, 17 APP, 27 K, 6 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 1B Conner Wilson (Missouri State); OF Ryan Wadkins (Altascocita HS, TX); INF Mike Rafter (Whittier Christian HS, CA); INF John Goodrich (Southwestern Illinois CC); RHP Matthew Tipton (Springfield Catholic HS, MO); RHP Austin Simms (Blue Springs HS, MO).

KEY LOSSES: OF Nick Thimesch (2nd in national with 104 hits, 33 SB); RHP Will Landsheft (9-2, 1.73 ERA, 78 IP, 76 K); RHP Kevin Sweeney (9-3, 2.13 ERA, 84 IP); SS Caleb Cole (4-year starter, .374, 31 walks); INF Colton Jones (.368, 35 R, 13 SB).

2015 OUTLOOK: Drury returns five position players and four key pitchers including RHP Trevor Richards (8-2, 1.71 ERA, 73 K, 15 BB). “We have lots of new faces with high expectations,” said head Coach Scott Nasby.

“We have three weekend starters who could be as good as we have ever had.”

19. TEXAS A&M-KINGSVILLE COACH: Jason Gonzales (183-140 in 6 years with the Javelinas) 2014 RECORD: 38-20 2014 FINISH: Runnerup in South Central Region TOP RETURNEES: C Clint Wallace (.241, 4 HR, 5 2B, 26 RBI, 2 SB); OF Miles Holcomb (.273, 4 HR, 5 2B, 22 RBI, 4 SB); OF Blake Johnson (.270, 3 2B, 11 RBI, 5 SB); RHP Ryan Benitez (4-2, 3.82 ERA, 37 IP, 28 K, 14 BB); RP Ryan Scott (14 SV, 0-0, 2.05 ERA, 29 APP, 24 K, 7 BB); RP Hayden James (0-0, 2.65 ERA, 21 APP, 13 K, 4 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: UT Hayden Vesely (Blinn College); SS Wesley Aguilar (Trinidad State); OF JP Phillips (Navarro JC); LHP Matt Terrones (Eastfield CC); RHP Will Abbott (Tyler JC); LHP Shane Veeder (Cinco Ranch HS, TX).

KEY LOSSES: SS Derrick Walls (Lone Star Conference Player of the Year); 1B Taylor Taska (1st Team All-Conference, All-Region); OF Brian Frazier (1st Team All-Conference, All-Region); 2B Matt Perez (Gold Glove winner); RHP Dallas Ponder (1st Team All-Conference).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Javelinas posted a 38-20 record last season and return three position player starters and two key pitchers including closer Ryan Scott (14 SV, 2.05 ERA). An exceptional recruiting class of 14 players has stocked Texas A&M-Kingsville with plenty of talent once again. “We will be a very athletic team,” said Head Coach Jason Gonzales. “We have very good speed and will put a lot of pressure on defenses. We will be solid on the mound from both our starters and bullpen.”

20. LYNN

COACH: Rudy Garbalosa (438-314-1 with the Fighting Knights) 2014 RECORD: 35-16 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Alex Debellis (.349, 3 HR, 14 2B, 29 RBI, 1 SB); 3B Tom Kain (.333, 5 HR, 20 2B, 38 RBI); OF Mike Stemle (.307, 5 2B, 24 RBI, 30 SB); 2B Albert LeFran (.262, 4 HR, 9 2B, 24 RBI, 1 SB); OF Matt Ackerman (.270, 1 HR, 4 2B, 19 RBI, 2 SB); RHP Travis Connolly (4-5, 3.80 ERA, 87.2 IP, 45 K, 20 BB); RP Bill Mendek (7 SV, 5-3, 0.77 ERA, 20 APP, 38 K, 17 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: P/DH Kyle Carter (Miami Dade CC); P Max Watt (Hillsborough JC); INF Matt Tietz (Cypress JC) OF Sam Sampen (Parkland JC); OF Cody Borup (Tallahassee JC); INF Kyle Schindler (St Petersburg JC); C/OF Erik Schindler (St. Petersburg JC).

TOP RETURNEES: C Tyler Fortanscio (.264, 6 2B, 21 RBI, 4 SB); 1B Alejandro Diaz (.333, 1 HR, 9 2B, 17 RBI, 4 SB); 2B Michael Mastroberti (.270, 14 2B, 33 RBI, 12 SB); SS Manny Cruz (.292, 12 2B, 26 RBI, 21 SB); 3B Bryan Toland (.214, 13 2B, 27 RBI, 9 SB); LHP Michael Robert (5-3, 1.59 ERA, 51 IP, 51 K, 17 BB); LHP Timothy Viehoff (5-3, 1.69 ERA, 58.2 IP, 82 K, 24 BB, 1 SV); RHP Cole Warren (3-3, 2.96 ERA, 54.2 IP, 60 K, 26 BB); RP Benjamin Criscuolo (14 SV, 6-0, 0.90 ERA, 25 APP, 46 K, 8 BB).

OF STEPHEN DEZZI

…Hits .369 with 8 HR, 15 2B, 47 RBI for Tampa

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Michael Montville (Univ of Maryland); OF Derek Bauer (Dean JC); 1B Lorenzo Papa (Broward JC); LHP Rob Del Signore (Londonderry HS, NH).

KEY LOSSES: C Sal Giardina (Sunshine State Conference Player of the Year); P Jed Vandernaald (All-Conference); P Danny Patrick (No. 2 starter); P Andrew Melchor (9 SV).

KEY LOSSES: OF Brendan O’Brien (1st Team All-Conference); OF Albert Stanton (2nd Team All-Conference); 3B Riley Palmer (3rd Team AllConference); RHP Derrick Sylvester (1st Team All-Conference).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Fighting Knights return five position player starters and two key pitchers from a team which posted a 35-16 record last season.

Eleven newcomers are also on board including LHP/DH Kyle Carter from Miami-Dade J.C. (FL). He hit .384 last season with 2 home runs and 23 RBI. On the mound, he struck out 72 batters in 82 innings with a 93 mph fastball from the left side with a plus breaking ball. “We have new faces on the mound and in some positions on the field,” said Head Coach Rudy Garbalosa.

2015 OUTLOOK: The Penmen rolled to a 41-14 record last season and return five position player starters and four quality pitchers led by closer Benjamin Criscuolo (14 SV, 6-0, 0.90 ERA, 46 K, 8 BB). One position player to watch is SS Manny Cruz who is a game changer defensively and hit 12 doubles, knocked in 26 runs and swiped 21 bases a season ago.

24. ST. THOMAS AQUINAS COACH: T. Scott Muscat (317-294 with the Spartans)

20. CAL. POLY POMONA

2014 RECORD: 38-18

COACH: Randy Betten (125-82 with the Broncos)

2014 FINISH: 10th in the final Collegiate Baseball national poll

2014 RECORD: 32-17

TOP RETURNEES: CF Rich Baerga (.368, 7 3B, 10 2B, 36 RBI, 18 SB); 3B Stanley Susana (.290, 3 HR, 6 3B, 14 2B, 41 RBI, 12 SB); OF Derek Hirsch (.338, 16 2B, 35 RBI, 14 SB); 1B Nick Gargan (.327, 12 RBI); C Deven Del Priore (.300, 15 RBI); DH Joe Boland (.242, 2 HR, 13 RBI); RHP Matt Kostalos (7-3, 2.95 ERA, 64 IP, 57 K, 22 BB); RHP Matt Petro (3-1, 3.21 ERA, 42 IP, 22 K, 8 BB); RHP Mike Gonzalez (4-5, 4.50 ERA, 52 IP, 23 K, 18 BB); RP Nick May (1 SV, 4-1, 3.16 ERA, 29 K, 21 BB); RP Anthony Morris (2-1, 3.26 ERA, 16 K, 6 BB).

2014 FINISH: Fourth place in CCAA TOP RETURNEES: INF Matt Munoz (.269, 7 2B, 15 RBI); C Christian Kelley (.197, 2 RBI); INF Michael Zidek (.429, 1 RBI); INF Nick Cooksey (.310, 7 2B, 16 RBI, 3 SB); INF Jason Padlo (.321, 9 RBI, 3 SB); RHP Cody Ponce (4-4, 2.48 ERA, 72.2 IP, 49 K, 27 BB); LHP Max Bethell (7-4, 3.58 ERA, 73 IP, 34 K, 13 BB); RP Austin Boyle (3 SV, 4-0, 1.83 ERA, 18 APP 43 K); RP JJ Franklin (8 SV, 2-2, 1.75 ERA, 26 APP, 25 K).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Kyle Garlick (Oregon); RHP Ryan Olson (Univ of San Diego); INF Ryan Webberly (Oxnard JC); OF Daniel Pitts (Long Beach City); RHP Zach Williams (UC Davis); INF Nic Bruno (Cal Poly SLO/Riverside City).

KEY LOSSES: OF David Armendariz (Region Player of the Year); OF Chris Carlson (Gold Glove winner); OF Joe Eusebio (All-Conference); RHP Steven Farnworth (All-Conference).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Broncos rolled to a 32-17 record last season and return four position player starters and three key pitchers including RHP Cody Ponce who has a fastball in the upper 90s and command of four pitches. He is expected to be a first or second round pick in the 2015 Major League draft. Factor in an exceptional recruiting class of 16 players, and Cal. Poly Pomona will be loaded once again.

21. ALABAMA-HUNTSVILLE COACH: Hunter Royer (151-88-1 with the Chargers) 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: 1B Chandler Brock (.307, 1 HR, 12 2B, 37 RBI, 11 SB); OF Cody Burton (.329, 6 2B, 19 RBI, 15 SB); OF Brandon Lawing (.320, 2 HR, 12 2B, 37 RBI, 1 SB); OF Austin Sanders (.321, 1 HR, 12 2B, 20 RBI, 7 SB); DH Ryan Barnes (.363, 7 2B, 20 RBI); 2B Ben Hall (.297, 5 HR, 7 2B, 44 RBI, 1 SB); LHP Tyler Howell (8-2, 2.97 ERA, 100 IP, 55 K, 12 BB); RP Luke Mould (8 SV, 5-1, 2.78 ERA, 19 APP, 20 K, 8 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: LHP Daniel Koger (Auburn Univ); INF Tanner Cimo (Auburn Univ); RHP Chris Kilpatrick (Snead State JC); RHP Wilson Adams (Central Alabama JC); INF Mike Fox (Jefferson Davis JC).

KEY LOSSES: LHP Drew Eiland (All-Region, All-Conference); RHP Alex Aultman (10-4, 92 IP, 2.84 ERA); SS Blake Massey (All-Region, AllConference, 8 HR); C Justin Riddle (4-year starter); 3B Chase Handley (All-Regional, Gold Glove winner).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Chargers return five position player starters and two key pitchers from a team which rolled to a 41-16 record last season. One key player back is OF Cody Burton (.329, 6 2B, 19 RBI) who is an exceptional defensive centerfielder with a plus arm. “The leadership on this team is going to have to really assert itself,” said Head Coach Hunter Royer.

COACH: Kyle Crookes (first year with the Mules)

KEY LOSSES: P CJ Ferriggi (All-Conference, All-Region, 10 SV); 1B Kenny Kirshner (All-Conference, All-Region, best defensive player); OF Nick D’Angelo (All-Conference, 31 RBI); INF Stephen Sunday (All-Conference, 27 RBI); P Robert Frank (All-Conference, 2.72 ERA, 64 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Spartans return five position player starters and five key pitchers from last season. One key player to watch is 3B Stanley Susana, one of the top defensive players in the nation. At the plate, he hit .290 with 3 HR, 6 3B, 14 2B, 41 RBI and swiped 12 bases. “We return five of our top hitters from the 2014 East Region championship team,” said Head Coach T. Scott Muscat. “Our infield improves at second, third and shortstop, and our overall team speed improves. The pitching staff has depth, but there are still question marks in the bottom of the rotation and bullpen for the eighth and ninth innings.”

25. MERCYHURST

2014 RECORD: 41-16

22. CENTRAL MISSOURI

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF/P Giovanni Dingcong (Beacon School, NY); INF Joey Pena (Perkiomen HS, PA); INF Brandon Fischer (Briarcliffe College); UT Joey Fusco (WT Clarke HS, NY); C John McGugan (Burlington CC); P Chris Pennell (Rye Neck HS, NY); P Frank Moscatiello (Rocky Point HS, NY).

COACH: Joe Spano (456-316-3 with the Lakers) 2014 RECORD: 30-15 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: DH Dan Popio (.403, 15 2B, 41 RBI, 7 SB); 3B Brendan Cox (.388, 7 2B, 24 RBI, 3 SB); OF Ryan Siegel (.342, 1 HR, 7 2B, 29 RBI, 15 SB); 1B Hank Morrison (.322, 3 HR, 3 2B, 33 RBI, 1 SB); OF Giancarlo Saia (.314, 2 HR, 8 2B, 34 RBI, 4 SB); SS Angel Martinez (.298, 1 HR, 6 2B, 21 RBI, 5 SB); C Jake Marinelli (.227, 1 HR, 5 2B, 5 RBI, 20 SB); RHP Joe Gnacinski (5-2, 3.30 ERA, 43.2 IP, 34 K, 19 BB); RHP Jon Klein (4-5, 3.86 ERA, 60.2 IP, 70 K, 18 BB); RP Colin McKee (5 SV, 0-1, 3.34 ERA, 14 APP, 27 K, 8 BB); RP Jake Hall (1-1, 4.16 ERA, 11 APP, 22 K, 3 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: INF Austin Alonge (Mercyhurst North East CC); INF Cam Balego (Mercyhurst North East CC); LHP Matt Minnick (St. Francis HS, NY); RHP Matt Jaskolka (Bloomsburg College, PA).

KEY LOSSES: RHP Dan Altavilla (National Pitcher of the Year); SS Joe Pantano (Gold Glove winner); OF Anthony Temasone (All-Conference); RHP Tanner Delahey (All-Region).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Lakers rolled to a 30-15 record last season and return seven position player starters and two key pitchers. One player to watch is 3B Brendan Cox (.388, 7 2B, 24 RBI). “This is one of the deepest teams we have ever had,” said Head Coach Joe Spano. “We are looking to make another run at an NCAA Regional.”

R.A.K.E. System Can Be Used For Efficient Goal Setting Jeff Kent Will Continued From Page 30

If there were 6 or more strikeouts, then the team was only 31-20.

Extra Base Hits 3+ (61-6) 2- (60-29) After dissecting the 4 previous seasons, Jon set his goals for the upcoming season at: 6 or more runs per game, 30 or more appearances at the dish, 5 or fewer strikeouts a game by his players, and 3 or more extra base hits.

Then he dug deeper into what happened when all four goals were reached, three goals, etc.

Here are those results: If 4 goals were met, it resulted in a 44-2 record.

If 3 goals were met, it resulted in a 46-4 record.

If 2 goals were met, it resulted in a 13-8 record.

If 1 goal was met, it resulted in a 7-13 record.

If 0 goals were met, it resulted in a 1-8 record.

All things considered, if 3 or 4

team goals were met, Jon’s teams were 100-6.

This is a 94% winning percentage.

On the flip side, if 0-2 goals were met, then the teams were only 2129. A far cry from meeting more goals.

This is only a 42% winning percentage.

Many people write their goals on a sticky note and place it in their wallet, on a vision board, or on their bathroom mirror.

The point is to have those goals

where they are visible and serve as great reminders.

The study we conducted is very telling and something very easy to remember by players and easy to post in your dugout this season too.

What will you hold of the most importance this season?

What goals will you teach, how will you make it apart of your season and hold your team accountable throughout?

For more coaching tips, go to: www.1pitchwarrior.com

Headline Event

PROVO, Utah — Former San Francisco Giant Jeff Kent will be the keynote speaker at the second annual “First Pitch” Fundraising Dinner/Auction on January 24 at the NuSkin Ballroom in Provo.

Kent played 17 years of professional baseball (1992-2008), including six with the Giants from 1997-2002. He won the National League Most Valuable Player award in 2000 with the Giants, and is the all-time leader in home runs among second basemen.

Collegiate Baseball

Page 38

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Top NCAA Division III Baseball Players Named TUCSON, Ariz. — The following list includes NCAA Division III Players to Watch for 2015 as chosen by the Div. III coaches and compiled by Collegiate Baseball newspaper.

Left-Handed Pitchers Darrell Thompson, Shenandoah Jeff Singer, Rutgers-Camden Kyle Slinger, Tufts Tyler Ferguson, La Roche Eric Veglahn, St. Thomas (MN) Connor Hurst, Wisconsin-Whitewater Colin Grove, Wisconsin-Whitewater Brendyn Karinchak, Oswego State Ben Libuda, Worcester State CJ Selner, Concordia-Chicago Kurt Kempema, Concordia-Chicago David Hesslink, MIT Zac Poland, Endicott Scott Peters, California Lutheran Corey Armentrout, Bridgewater (VA) Ron Reagan, Rutgers-Camden John Cook, Amherst Dylan Pierce, Kalamazoo Chris Jordan, Benedictine (IL) Rich Power, Gettysburg Tyler Leavitt, Southern Maine Mike Bruemmel, Wheaton (MA) Dan Fein, Salisbury Connor Shockley, Salisbury Blake Glauben, Rhodes Adam Putnam, Rhodes Isaac Behme, Webster Brandon McClain, Cortland State Nick Cooney, Wesleyan (CT) Justin Lange, Buena Vista Jake Eaton, Anderson Chance Emlund, Dominican (IL) Right-Handed Pitchers Chris Haddeland, Linfield Aaron Thomassen, Linfield Luke Watson, Wisconsin-Stevens Point Connor Dillman, Emory Nick Gollin, Washington-St. Louis Blake Stevens, Birmingham-Southern John Prendergast, Ithaca Christian Herstine, Marietta Tommy Bergjans, Haverford Brett Collacchi, Salisbury Rob Barth, Widener Ryan Dorosh, Misericordia Colin Wendinger, St. Thomas (MN) Curtis Morgan, Wisconsin-Whitewater Austin Jones, Wisconsin-Whitewater Tim Ingram, SUNY Old Westbury Ryan Easterday, Rowan Kris Doyle, Worcester State Nick Locascio, MIT Alan Wang, MIT Garrett Kriston, Convenant JJ Branch, Endicott Jake Shields, Case Western Reserve Corey McNamara, Saint Joseph’s (ME) Lincoln Sanborn, Saint Joseph’s (ME) Tom Zarosinski, George Fox Ian Buckles, George Fox Kevin Hamann, George Fox Eric Schmidt, Adrian Seth Cornell, Houghton Charles Thielmann, Kean Mike Daley, Kean Tyler Heitmann, Bethel Martin Cronin, Dallas Cameron Cox, Concordia (TX) Andrew Schuler, DeSales Zack Speer, Trinity (TX) Matt Tindall, Trinity (TX)

Ross Danzig, Scranton Eric Monroe, Heidelberg Apolinar De La Cruz, Wheaton (MA) Kyle Kowal, Albion Cody LaBadia, Southern Vermont Jordan Baer, Trine Breck Davidson, Piedmont Jeff Kammer, Webster Ricky Mendiola, Fredonia Sam Goodwin-Boyd, Wesleyan (CT) Donnie Waters, Rose-Hulman Zach Hufferd, Anderson 1B/RHP Ben Havel, Elmhurst

RHP CHRIS HADDELAND

…11-2, 1.16 ERA with 84 strikeouts, 33 walks for Linfield Cory Waite, Baldwin Wallace Brandon Cichocki, Baldwin Wallace Justin Davis, Linfield Eric Hungerford, Gettysburg Brandon Miller, Lynchburg Adam Manner, Heidelberg Derek Hendrixson, Heidelberg Marc Iseneker, St. John Fisher Oliver Collette, Springfield (MA) Darren Lauer, Keystone Tim Burek, Misericordia Thomas Beamish, Rhodes Chris Goershel, Piedmont Allen Tokarz, Piedmont Alex Guerra, Franklin & Marshall CJ Lee, Webster Dylan Dean Smith, Webster Caleb Fernholz, St. Thomas (MN) Zach Carlson, Wisconsin-Stout Brandon Serio, Cortland State Dan Warren, Rochester Gavin Pittore, Wesleyan (CT) Matt Smith, Chapman Ian Grigsby, Buena Vista Lucas Hadaway, Buena Vista Derrick Capiak, Mount Aloysius Andy Davis, St. Scholastica Hans Hansen, Emory Relief Pitchers Cameron Hoos, DeSales Adam Merritt, Eastern Connecticut State Luke Lawrence, Gettysburg Andrew Richards, Southern Maine Kyle Hamby, Salisbury Evan Janifer, Rochester Alec McNally, Rose-Hulman Nick Prebelski, Wisconsin-Stevens Point David Bourbonnais, Birmingham-Southern Vinny Zanfordino, Kean Chris Jansen, Webster Braden Riddle, Chapman

Catchers Mike Roethke, Moravian Jordan Swisher, Case Western Reserve Jacob Mayfield, Birmingham-Southern Conner Gunn, Amherst Chris Winpigler, Marietta Brett Youngbeck, Wisconsin Lutheran Rob Tomasulo, Lynchburg Nick Ott, Haverford Spencer Bonofiglio, Albion Tim Menninger, Cal Tech Brian Bohman, Penn State Erie, Behrend College Jesse Brucker, Monmouth (IL) Sean McMillan, Redlands Cody Darley, Keystone Austin Brick, Piedmont Charlie Meyer, Wisconsin-Stout Brandon Wessels, Buena Vista Mike Mierow, Wisconsin-Whitewater Cole Heberling, Anderson Cody Schuster, Dominican (IL) C/3B Zach Tsiodras, Elmhurst First Basemen Brian Tougher, La Roche Kyle Chontos, Baldwin Wallace Simon Rosenbaum, Pomona-Pitzer Casey Power, Wisconsin-Whitewater Cody Hanke, Wisconsin-Stevens Point Nate Rodman, MIT Bryan Wolfe, Trinity (CT) Zack Kessinger, Washington-St. Louis Tailur Szarenski, Manchester (IN) Collin Crowl, California Lutheran Zach Wingate, Birmingham-Southern Brendan Howell, Bridgewater (VA) Matt Connolly, Ithaca Connor Hall, Rutgers-Camden Sal Taormina, Kean Trevor Keele, Dallas Connor Bertsch, Concordia (TX) Mitch Geers, Marietta

Second Basemen Colin Feikles, La Roche Harry Oringer, Endicott Will Cleland, Convenant Kerrigan Cain, Case Western Reserve Kenny Rabin, Pomona-Pitzer Anders Goetz, Union (NY) Mark Zimmerman, Baldwin Wallace Matt Mastroianni, SUNY Oneonta Conner Combs, East Texas Baptist Corey Keane, Eastern Connecticut State Justin Peluso, Wheaton (MA) Mike Roman, St. John Fisher Charlie St. Clair, Southwestern (TX) RJ Pingitore, Southern Vermont Kyle Lindsay, Misericordia Ethan Prebynski, Trine Jack Schneider, Wisconsin-Stout Mark DeMilio, Cortland State Ciro Frontale, Fredonia Adrian Pena, City College of New York Tyler Duex, St. Scholastica Shortstops Mikole Pierce, Wisconsin-Whitewater Sam Dexter, Southern Maine Dave Ruggiero, Worcester State Steve Zubrzycki, Concordia-Chicago Colin Case, Moravian Parker Tew, MIT Trevor Kimm, Manchester (IN) Matt Brown, Birmingham-Southern Ryan Dorow, Adrian Michael Knapp, Houghton Matt Moser, Tufts Mitch Frey, Franklin Jordanis Nunez, Manhattanville Connor Moore, Trinity (TX) Corey VanDomelen, Linfield Scott Banghellini, Gettysburg Cody Wiktorski, St. John Fisher Colten Shea, Southwestern (TX) Pete Grasso, Salisbury Nicholas Enos, Widener Bill Munson, Rhodes Brett Poniros, Franklin & Marshall Guy Davidson, Wesleyan (CT) Kody Alayon, Rose-Hulman Third Basemen Michael Paul, Shenandoah Andrew Gronski, Case Western Reserve Mike Elfreth, Widener Carlos Olavarria, Concordia-Chicago Ryan Luke, Moravian Dan Pidgeon, Trinity (CT) Chris Lowery, Washington-St. Louis Jordan Nieman, Manchester (IN) Justin Petock, Bridgewater (VA) Andy Lopez, Kean Wil Parsons, Lynchburg Paul McDonough, Southern Maine Bobby Janzone, Salisbury Ryan Finnegan, Penn State Erie, Behrend College Chris Bzozowski, Keystone Matt Mezansky, Franklin & Marshall Tyler Cook, Chapman

Outfielders Jameson Brock, Franklin Jeremy Wolf, Trinity (TX) Derek Hug, Heidelberg Kyle Hayman, Salisbury Michael Fischbach, Albion Willie Doll, Saint Mary’s (MN) Nick Yip, SUNY Old Westbury Jonathan Pagan, SUNY Old Westbury John Rauseo, Oswego State Brett Lake, Emory Matt Scherer, Widener Matt Hanson, Moravian Cam Farnham, Endicott Max Golembo, Washington-St. Louis Kyle Norris, Manchester (IN) Ramsey Abushahla, California Lutheran Tanner Nishioka, Pomona-Pitzer Bryan Baquer, Washington College (MD) Zac Edmiston, Bethany Connor McDavitt, Tufts Matt Conrad, Bethel Bryce Marquardt, Bethel Yanni Thanopolous, Amherst Ian Kobernick, Kalamazoo Scott Devine, Kalamazoo Chris Conklin, Manhattanville Tommy DePaul, DeSales Dan McCormack, Westfield State Sam Matheis, Wisconsin Lutheran Jo Carroll, Linfield Tyler Bates, East Texas Baptist Kyle Hart, Eastern Connecticut State Franzee Baralmas, La Roche Tim Hendricks, Benedictine (IL) Joe Rogers, Lynchburg Trevor Oldham, Heidelberg Matt Lavanchy, Wheaton (MA) Joe Simmons, St. John Fisher Steve Starr, Springfield (MA) Jordan Gowe, Salisbury Chase Bair, Monmouth (IL) Connor Hancock, Redlands Gaston Rojas, Keystone Rich Rios, Southern Vermont Mike Comerford, Misericordia Ryan Olive, Rhodes Evan Gresham, Piedmont Kelvin Stroik, St. Thomas (MN) Brady Burzynski, Wisconsin-Stout Vinny Bomasuto, Cortland State Ben Buerkle, Saint Mary’s (MN) Josh Ludwig, Rochester Donnie Cimino, Wesleyan (CT) Greg Dillon, Chapman Neil Marshall, Buena Vista Tanner Truesdell, Buena Vista Jake Craft, Anderson OF/RHP Quinlan Milne-Rojek, Dominican (IL) A.J. Compton, Elmhurst Designated Hitters Kyle McHugh, Wisconsin-Stevens Point Casey Grimes, Rowan Nic Lops, Saint Joseph’s (ME) Hunter Handel, Baldwin Wallace Bob Barnett, Widener Multi-Position Athletes LHP/1B Jake Fishman, Union (NY) RHP/OF Mike Odenwaelder, Amherst SS/OF Zac Wilson, Wittenberg RHP/1B Jamie Faber, Union (NY) RHP/3B Seth Lamando, Cortland State 2B/C Ben Harrow, Nicholls College C/OF Jimmy Coady, Wisconsin-Stevens Point DH/C Nick Fischer, DeSales RHP/2B Blake Judkins, Central (IA) OF/RHP Daniel Chou, Cal Tech

NCAA Div. III Preview: No. 1 Wisc.-Whitewater Loaded 1. WISC.-WHITEWATER

COACH: John Vodenlich (402-128-1 with the Warhawks; 431-168-1 overall) 2014 RECORD: 44-7 2014 FINISH: National champions TOP RETURNEES: SS Mikole Pierce (.435, 9 HR, 9 2B, 64, RBI 16 SB); C Mike Mierow (.346, 1 HR, 8 2B, 32 RBI, 15 SB); 1B Casey Power (.345, 5 HR, 16 2B, 52 RBI, 9 SB); OF Trey Cannon (.303, 2 HR, 12 2B, 30 RBI, 6 SB); 2B Nick Kuhlmann (.264, 2 HR, 8 2B, 30 RBI, 14 SB); OF Kyle Haen (.317, 4 HR, 5 2B, 25 RBI, 12 SB); 3B Adam Gregory (.308, 8 2B, 22 RBI, 3 SB); LHP Connor Hurst (6-2, 3.38 ERA, 64 IP, 37 K, 14 BB); RHP Curtis Morgan (6-1, 3.81 ERA, 78 IP, 42 K, 23 BB); RP Austin Jones (3 SV, 6-1, 2.27 ERA, 19 APP, 25 K, 13 BB); RP Colin Grove (2 SV, 5-0, 2.33 ERA, 19 APP, 37 K, 7 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: C/INF Dane Burman (Elgin CC); P/1B Heath Renz (Jefferson HS, WI); OF Daytona Bryden (UW-Whitewater); LHP Ankur Shah (University of Illinois-Chicago); C/OF Kevin White (St. Laurence HS, IL); C Colton Wagner (Lake Zurich HS, IL); RHP Sam Heilenbach (Township HS, IL).

2015 OUTLOOK: The defending national champions rolled to a 44-7 record last season and return six position player starters and four exceptional pitchers. Key returning players include SS Mikole Pierce (.435, 9 HR, 9 2B, 64 RBI, 16 SB), C Mike Mierow (.346, 8 2B, 33 RBI, 15 SB), 1B Casey Power (.345, 5 HR, 16 2B, 52 RBI), RHP Austin Jones (6-1, 3 SV, 2.27 ERA), LHP Connor Hurst (6-2, 3.38 ERA), RHP Curtis Morgan (6-1, 3.81 ERA), and LHP Colin Grove (5-0, 2 SV, 2.33 ERA).

2. EMORY

COACH: Michael Twardoski (449-209 with the Eagles) 2014 RECORD: 38-13 2014 FINISH: Second at NCAA Division III College World Series TOP RETURNEES: 1B Jordan Selbach (.350, 5 2B, 21 RBI, 8 SB); 3B Phillip Maldari (.362, 1 HR, 10 2B, 33 RBI, 5 SB); OF Brett Lake (.417, 4 HR, 13 2B, 69 RBI, 13 SB); OF Wes Peacock (.338, 5 HR, 16 2B, 54 RBI, 21 SB); SS Jack Karras (.203, 9 RBI, 1 SB); RHP Connor Dillman (10-1, 2.35 ERA, 84.1 IP, 78 K, 39 BB); RHP Hans Hansen (9-2, 3.21 ERA, 75.2 IP, 47 K, 7 BB); LHP Jackson Weeg (4-2, 2.03 ERA, 62 IP, 45 K, 21 BB); RP Kyle Monk (7 SV, 3-2, 2.10 ERA, 21 APP, 22 K, 8 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 2B Jeff Ronpirin; C Austen Maggin (Maret HS, MD);

P Matt Randolph (Cannon HS, NC).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Eagles finished second at the NCAA Division III College World Series last season and posted a 38-13 overall record. Five position player starters are back along with nine pitchers. “Replacing 10 seniors will be very tough, but I like the way this team is jelling, and I look forward to competing at a high level in the spring,” said Head Coach Michael Twardoski. Key players to watch include OF Brett Lake (.417, 4 HR, 13 2B, 69 RBI, 13 SB), RHP Connor Dillman (10-1, 2.35 ERA, 78 K, 39 BB), and RHP Hans Hansen (9-2, 3.21 ERA, 47 K, 7 BB).

3. ST. THOMAS, MN

COACH: Chris Olean (177-53 with the Tommies) 2014 RECORD: 39-9 2014 FINISH: Third Place in NCAA Division III World Series TOP RETURNEES: OF Kelvin Stroik (.327, 1 HR, 5 2B, 19 RBI, 6 SB); 1B Ryan Gerber (injured in 2014); SS Brady Johnson (.239, 6 2B, 16 RBI, 3 SB); OF Waylon Bemboom (.288, 3 2B, 8 RBI, 3 SB); LHP Eric Veglahn (9-0, 1.55 ERA, 69.2 IP, 70 K, 13 BB); RHP Colin Wendinger (8-0, 2.79 ERA, 71 IP, 45 K, 26 BB); RHP Caleb Fernholz (5-1, 2.15 ERA, 29.1 IP, 22 K, 21 BB); RP Matt Behounek (8 IP, 10 K); RP Bill Ferderer (1-1, 19 IP, 15 K).

TOP NEWCOMERS: SP Kasey Ralston (Univ of Indiana); SP Dominic Reed (Des Moines Area CC); C Anthony Winters (Ohio University); C/INF Keller Knoll (Augustana College); SS Zach Gottfredson (Henry Sibley HS, MN); 1B Hunter Hart (Delano HS, MN); Jimmy Dolan (St. Thomas Academy ); SP Justin Juronimus (Cherry Creek HS, CO).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Tommies rolled to a 39-9 record last season and finished third in the nation at the College World Series. Two position player starters return along with six quality pitchers. “Losing 15 seniors, we will have a lot of newcomers on the field,” said Head Coach Chris Olean. “We have a stacked pitching staff with six starters that we can run out there and compete with anyone. We will be a young team but very with talented with four freshmen likely making big contributions in the lineup as well as a few transfers.” Three great pitchers to watch include ace LHP Eric Veglahn (9-0, 1.55 ERA, 70 K, 13 BB, All-American), RHP Colin Wendinger (8-0, 2.79 ERA, 45 K, 26 BB), and RHP Caleb Fernholz (5-1, 2.15 ERA, 22 K).

4. LINFIELD

COACH: Scott Brosius (237-81 with the Wildcats) 2014 RECORD: 37-9 2014 FINISH: Tied for 7th at NCAA Division III World Series

TOP RETURNEES: SS Corey Van Domelen (.299, 7 2B, 21 RBI, 9 SB); OF Jo Carroll (.293, 3 HR, 9 2B, 22 RBI, 7 SB); 3B Eric Lawson (.263, 7 2B, 25 RBI, 7 SB); C Chance Laboda (.219, 1 2B, 7 RBI); RHP Chris Haddeland (112, 1.16 ERA, 116 IP, 84 K, 33 BB, 1 SV); RHP Aaron Thomassen (10-2, 2.08 ERA, 82 IP, 58 K, 19 BB); RP Cody Walker (4 SV, 2-0, 1.00 ERA, 13 APP, 14 K, 3 BB); RP Justin Davis (7 SV, 0-1, 3.44 ERA, 7 APP, 7 K, 5 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: C Jake Gellos (Tualatin HS, OR); C Brady Rediger (West Salem HS, OR); RHP Harrions Reece (Lake Oswego HS, OR); RHP Callahan Neely (Bellevue HS, WA); INF Ryan Ross (West Valley HS, WA).

2015 OUTLOOK: Linfield posted a 37-9 overall record last season and finished seventh at the College World Series. The Wildcats will return a strong pitching staff that allowed Linfield to qualify for the NCAA Division III World Series for the second consecutive season. One key pitchers to watch include RHP Chris Haddeland, a 2-time first team All-American who was named the NCAA Division III Player of The Year in 2014. “With key graduations on defense, we will have a number of younger players in the program assuming greater roles with this year’s squad,” said Head Coach Scott Brosius.

5. CORTLAND ST.

COACH: Joe Brown (553-152-3 in 15 years with the Red Dragons) 2014 RECORD: 36-10 2014 FINISH: Tied for 5th in NCAA Division III World Series TOP RETURNEES: OF Donny Castaldo (.310, 8 2B, 9 RBI, 13 SB); OF Vinny Bomasuto (.304, 2 HR, 12 2B, 39 RBI, 7 SB); OF Conrad Ziemendorf (.315, 3 HR, 7 2B, 21 RBI, 7 SB); SS Anthony Simon (.396, 1 2B, 13 RBI, 2 SB); 2B Mark Demilio (.361, 1 HR, 6 2B, 16 RBI, 6 SB); LHP Brandon McClain (10-2, 2.16 ERA, 91.2 IP, 78 K, 24 BB); RHP Brandon Serio (9-3, 2.37 ERA, 83.2 IP, 68 K, 20 BB); RHP Ryan McAlary (2-0, 2.11 ERA, 21.1 IP, 13 K, 11 BB, 1 SV); RP Tyler Brien (1 SV, 0-0, 2.38 ERA, 14 APP, 14 K, 7 BB); RP Travis Laitar (0-0, 3.09 ERA, 11 APP, 12 K, 6 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Alex Weingarten (Farmingdale State); RHP Seth Lamando (Coastal Carolina); OF Fabio Ricci (Westchester CC); C Justin Teague (CNS); C Matt Personius (Chenango Valley HS, NY); INF Patrick Schetter (Beacon HS, NY); RHP Adam Brant (SUNY Purchase).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Red Dragons posted a 36-10 record last season and return six position player starters and five key pitchers. “We have a deep pitching staff with good infielders and will be much faster tan last year,” said Head Coach Joe Brown. “We will miss our senior leadership from 2014, Continued On Page 39

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015 Continued From Page 38

6. SALISBURY

COACH: Troy Brohawn (First Year) 2014 RECORD: 37-9

2015 OUTLOOK: The Sea Gulls posted a 37-9 record last season and finished tied for seventh at the College World Series. Five position player starters return along with the entire pitching staff. Key players to watch include CF Kyle Hayman (.426, 9 2B, 33 RBI, 28 SB) and RHP Brett Collacchi (12-2, 2.57 ERA, 59 K), LHP Connor Shockley (8-0, 2.12 ERA, 36 K) and LHP Dan Fein (8-2, 3.74 ERA, 58 K).

7. SOUTHERN MAINE

COACH: Ed Flaherty (879-394-4 with the Huskies) 2014 RECORD: 37-15 2014 FINISH: Fourth Place at NCAA Division III World Series TOP RETURNEES: SS Sam Dexter (.382, 2 HR, 14 2B, 33 RBI, 5 SB); 3B Paul McDonough (.335, 3 HR, 11 2B, 31 RBI, 7 SB); OF Nick DiBiase (.269, 4 2B, 17 RBI, 5 SB); OF Jake Glauser (.261, 3 HR, 9 2B, 27 RBI, 8 SB); LHP Tyler Leavitt (8-3, 3.14 ERA, 63 IP, 41 K, 21 BB); RHP Shyler Scates (6-4, 4.14 ERA, 63 IP, 33 K, 8 BB); RHP Zack Bean (3-1, 6.00 ERA, 36 IP, 15 K, 12 BB); RP Andrew Richards (7 SV, 7-1, 3.63 ERA, 32 APP, 51 K, 12 BB); RP Ryan Browner (1 SV, 0-1, 2.97 ERA, 29 APP, 18 K, 3 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: INF Brandon Martins (Eastport South Manor, NY); OF Devin Warren (Messalonskee HS, ME); P Bobby Delaney (Kellenberg HS, NY); 1B Anthony Capuano (University of Maine); P Dalton Rice (Oxford Hills HS, ME); OF Tom Budrewicz (Masconomet HS, MA); OF Nick Bowie (Oxford Hills HS, ME).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Huskies posted a 37-15 record last season and finished tied for fourth at the NCAA Division III World Series. Four position player starters are back along with four quality pitchers. “We lost five key players in our lineup, but we return all our pitching except one starter,” said Head Coach Ed Flaherty. “We have a lot of good athletes competing for five positions which should keep our competitiveness at a high level.” One of the top players in the nation returns in SS Sam Dexter (.382, 14 2B, 33 RBI, great defense).

8. CAL. LUTHERAN

Photo by Larry Radloff/d3photography.com

2014 FINISH: Tied for seventh at NCAA Division III World Series

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Tyler Hrycak (Western Michigan); OF/1B Robbie Jones (Flagler College); P Kyle Skilling (Parkside HS, MD).

SS MIKOLE PIERCE

…435, 9 HR, 9 2B, 64 RBI for Wisc.-Whitewater 2B, 16 RBI, 7 SB); OF Tim McCoy (.265, 3 HR, 4 2B, 22 RBI, 6 SB); RHP Christian Herstine (9-1, 1.20 ERA, 89.2 IP, 82 K, 27 BB); LHP Tom Crowl (1-1, 6.00 ERA, 15 IP, 7 K, 5 BB, 1 SV); RHP Tyler Nieberding (4-2, 5.00 ERA, 45 IP, 18 K, 10 BB); RP Mike Fulton (3 SV, 1-2, 1.85 ERA, 21 APP, 21 K, 12 BB); RP Zak Janus (1-0, 3.68 ERA, 10 APP, 9 K, 6 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 1B Joseph Begany (Sheffield Village HS, OH); OF Brandon Papp (Uniontown HS, OH); MIF Chris Petrucci (Farmington HS, WV).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Pioneers posted a 30-16 record last season and finished third at the Mideast Regional. Seven position player starters return along with four quality pitchers including All-American RHP Christian Herstine (9-1, 1.20 ERA, 82 K, 27 BB). Two other players to watch are C Chris Winpigler (.376, 10 2B, 37 RBI) and 1B Mitch Geers (.285, 5 HR, 14 2B, 28 RBI, 12 SB). “We have a good mix of youth and experience,” said Head Coach Brian Brewer. “If we can figure out our bullpen, we should be better both offensively and defensively. I am looking forward to this spring and continuing the development of our players on the off the field.”

11. WEBSTER

COACH: Bill Kurich (267-101 in 8 years with the Gorloks) 2014 RECORD: 37-7

COACH: Marty Slimak (585-287-8 in 20 years with the Kingsmen)

2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional

2014 RECORD: 36-10

TOP RETURNEES: SS Matt Wollnik (.273, 5 2B, 24 RBI, 2 SB); OF Charlie Gandolfi (.356, 6 2B, 12 RBI, 5 SB); 1B Jeff Kammer (.273, 8 HR, 8 2B, 36 RBI, 5 SB); LHP Isaac Behme (8-1, 3.52 ERA, 79 IP, 66 K, 23 BB); RHP CJ Lee (5-1, 1.89 ERA, 47 IP, 52 K, 18 BB); RHP Dylan Dean Smith (8-1, 2.80 ERA, 54 IP, 28 K, 18 BB); RP Chris Jansen (5-1, 3.39 ERA, 10 APP, 59 K, 10 BB); RP Jack Bensinger (1-1, 1.88 ERA, 8 APP, 20 K, 4 BB).

2014 FINISH: 2-2 in West Regionals TOP RETURNEES: C Spencer DuBois (.312, 5 2B, 15 RBI, 4 SB); 1B Collin Crowl (.333, 2 HR, 15 2B, 46 RBI, 3 SB); 2B Kyle Sanchez (.337, 1 HR, 7 2B, 24 RBI, 3 SB); 3B Davis Casciola (.301, 2 HR, 10 2B, 33 RBI, 1 SB); SS Austin Kay (.200, 8 RBI, 1 SB); OF Gabe Gunter (.356, 1 HR, 10 2B, 29 RBI, 3 SB); OF Justin Cana (.342, 2 HR, 10 2B, 26 RBI, 10 SB); OF Ramsey Abushahla (.300, 4 HR, 9 2B, 42 RBI, 8 SB); LHP Scott Peters (7-3, 3.06 ERA, 88.1 IP, 49 K, 29 BB); RHP Trey Saito (3-0, 2.91 ERA, 21.2 IP, 12 K, 9 BB); LHP Mitchell Shields (1-0, 1.71 ERA, 21 IP, 12 K, 12 BB); RP Landry Kiyabu (4-0, 4.35 ERA, 14 APP, 26 K, 2 BB); RP Bobby Sipes (2-0, 4.66 ERA, 9 APP, 4 K, 2 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: P Evan Peterson (Cuesta College); INF Max Price (Morehead State); P Jeff Espinoza (Oxnard College); OF Brett Green (Bainbridge HS, WA); P Nate Wehner (Interlake HS, WA); P Chaz Williams (St. Margaret’s HS, CA); INF Erik Whittlesey (El Camino Real HS, CA).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Kingsmen posted a 36-10 overall record last season and participated in regional action. Eight position player starters are back and five quality pitchers. “We have a solid core of eight starting position players back along with a group of six pitchers who contributed significantly (bolstered by two transfers),” said Head Coach Marty Slimak. “We expect to contend again in the always tough SCIAC and West region this coming season. Three terrific players to watch include RF Ramsey Abushahla (.300, 4 HR, 9 2B, 42 RBI), 1B Collin Crowl (.333, 2 HR, 15 2B, 46 RBI) and LHP Scott Peters (7-3, 3.06 ERA, 49 K, 29 BB).

9. CONCORDIA-CHICAGO COACH: Adam Smith (146-40 with the Cougars) 2014 RECORD: 39-7 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Will Randerson (.305, 9 2B, 23 RBI, 13 SB); 2B Rich Santarelli (.309, 3 2B, 24 RBI, 6 SB); SS Steve Zubrzycki (.319, 12 2B, 26 RBI, 38 SB); 3B Carlos Olavarria (.398, 3 HR, 20 2B, 47 RBI, 25 SB); OF Dan Lo Dolce (.297, 2 HR, 11 2B, 19 RBI); OF Colin Bethran (.336, 1 HR, 2 2B, 17 RBI, 18 SB); DH Thomas Gier (.281, 4 2B, 9 RBI, 2 SB); DH Will Polley (.344, 11 2B, 20 RBI, 4 SB); LHP CJ Selner (6-2, 3.72 ERA, 58 IP, 41 K, 23 BB); LHP Kurt Kempema (6-1, 2.64 ERA, 64 IP, 45 K, 13 BB); LHP Cody Caballero (4-0, 1.78 ERA, 35 IP, 26 K, 6 BB); RP Rob Lock (2-0, 2.45 ERA).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 3B Jeff Von Moser (Univ of Albany); OF Joe Silva (Hersey HS, IL); C Brady Roberts (Marmion Academy, IL); RHP Mike Formella (Lockport HS, IL); RHP Alex Myers (Edwardsville HS, IL); RHP Matt Swanson (Maine West HS, IL); RHP AJ Sanchez (Richards HS, IL).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Cougars rolled to a 39-7 record last season and were a regional team. Seven position player starters are back along with four quality pitchers. “We have four quality starting pitchers back and 3-4 freshmen who I expect to pitch a lot for us,” said Head Coach Adam Smith.

“We stole 138 bases last year, and we have more team speed. So I expect more stolen bases. We have the pieces to be a very good ball club with veteran leadership.” Several players to watch include 3B Carlos Olavarria (.398, 3 HR, 20 2B, 47 RBI, 25/29 SB), SS Steve Zubrzycki (.319, 12 2B, 26 RBI, 38/40 SB) and LHP C.J. Selner (6-2, 3.72 ERA, 41 K, 23 BB).

10. MARIETTA

COACH: Brian Brewer (388-141 with the Pioneers; 437-210 overall) 2014 RECORD: 30-16 2014 FINISH: Third at Mideast Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Chris Winpigler (.376, 3 HR, 10 2B, 37 RBI, 3 SB); 1B Mitch Geers (.285, 5 HR, 14 2B, 28 RBI, 12 SB); SS Christian Demko (.276, 1 HR, 9 2B, 27 RBI, 9 SB); 2B Tyler Packanik (.355, 6 2B, 12 RBI, 3 SB); 3B Ryan Hanahan (.325, 3 HR, 8 2B, 23 RBI, 7 SB); OF Dylan Gracia (.248, 6

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2015 NCAA Div. III Baseball Top 30

but I like the potential of this team. We are anxious for spring to get here to see if we can go to our 23rd straight NCAA tournament.” Two great pitchers to watch include LHP Brandon McClain (10-2, 2.16 ERA, 78 K)) and RHP Brandon Serio (9-3, 2.37 ERA, 68 K, 20 BB).

TOP RETURNEES: OF Kyle Hayman (.426, 1 HR, 9 2B, 33 RBI, 28 SB); OF Gordan Gowe (.343, 1 HR, 15 2B, 36 RBI, 9 SB); 3B Bobby Janzone (.350, 3 HR, 6 2B, 39 RBI, 5 SB); C Austin Barefoot (.302, 4 2B, 22 RBI, 1 SB); SS Pete Grasso (.328, 8 2B, 37 RBI, 9 SB); RHP Brett Collacchi (12-2, 2.57 ERA, 94.2 IP, 59 K); LHP Dan Fein (8-2, 3.74 ERA, 96.1 IP, 58 K); LHP Connor Shockley (8-0, 2.12 ERA, 51 IP, 36 K); RP Jon Schmedel (1-1, 1.69 ERA, 21 APP, 25 K); RP Kyle Hamby (3-0, 2.45 ERA, 24 APP, 23 K, 9 SV).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Blake Thomas (Lewis & Clark CC); OF Alec Bahnick (Southeastern Missouri State); LHP Josh Fleming (Columbia HS, IL); 2B Ryan Fischer (John Wood CC); C Ty Hoffhines (Erie CC); OF Dylan Rajkovich (St. Joseph’s College).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Gorlocks were 37-7 last season and return three position player starters and five superb pitchers. “We return almost our entire pitching staff from last year and should play excellent defense once again,” said Head Coach Bill Kurich. “We expect to be in every game this year.” LHP Isaac Behme (8-1, 3.52 ERA, 66 K, 23 BB) returns who is the career wins leader (24) at Webster after three seasons. Also back is RHP C.J. Lee (5-1, 1.89 ERA), RHP Dylan Dean Smith (8-1, 2.80 ERA, 28 K), and LHP Chris Jansen (5-1, 3.39 ERA, 59 K).

12. TRINITY, TX

COACH: Tim Scannell (518-207 with the Tigers) 2014 RECORD: 33-10 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: SS Connor Moore (.305, 6 2B, 23 RBI, 28 SB); OF Jeremy Wolf (.336, 2 HR, 17 2B, 37 RBI, 2 SB); OF Austin Singer (.314, 1 HR, 6 2B, 21 RBI, 12 SB); 1B Nick Jewett (.262, 2 HR, 5 2B, 17 RBI, 2 SB); C Drew Butler (.358, 5 HR, 8 2B, 27 RBI, 1 SB); 3B Carter McEachern (.309, 2 HR, 3 2B, 23 RBI, 6 SB); RHP Zack Speer (8-2, 1.76 ERA, 76.2 IP, 62 K, 21 BB); LHP Ryan Gray (3-0, 2.11 ERA, 42.2 IP, 45 K, 25 BB); LHP Mike Walker (4-3, 2.88 ERA, 59.1 IP, 25 K, 29 BB); RP Kevin Flores (2 SV, 3-0, 1.25 ERA, 12 APP, 22 K, 10 BB); RP Matt Tindal (1 SV, 0-1, 1.56 ERA, 11 APP, 14 K, 8 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: INF Pepe Santos (St Edwards Coll); C George Haaland (NE Oklahoma JC); OF Sam Neely (Atascadero HS, CA); INF Joey Pecoraro (Bellarmine College Prep, CA); C Parker Cormack (Lakewood HS, CO); RHP Brett Rasic (Loyola HS, CA); RHP David Coffman (Cinco Ranch HS, TX).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Tigers posted a superb 33-10 record last season and participated in regional action. Six position player starters are back along with three quality pitchers. “We have an experienced group with some key losses to replace,” said Head Coach Tim Scannell. “We will compete for a conference championship and national championship again.” Key players to watch include OF Jeremy Wolf (.336, 17 2B, 37 RBI), and RHP Zack Speer (8-2, 1.76 ERA, 62 K, 21 BB).

13. ROWAN

COACH: Mike Dickson (first year with the Profs) 2014 RECORD: 31-12 2014 FINISH: Participated in Mid-Atlantic Regional TOP RETURNEES: 3B Kevin McMenamin (.340, 1 HR, 10 2B, 24 RBI); OF Nick Kreiger (.270, 6 2B, 16 RBI, 2 SB); C Stephen Petriello (.306, 3 2B, 3 RBI); DH Casey Grimes (.330, 18 2B, 4 HR, 37 RBI, 5 SB); OF Ryan Pavlik (.380, 8 2B, 20 RBI, 13 SB); RHP Ryan Easterday (5-1, 1.55 ERA, 58 IP, 35 K, 6 BB); LHP Ryan Sharkey (4-1, 2.90 ERA, 59 IP, 29 K, 10 BB); RHP Andrew Lysy (2-2, 42.2 IP, 24 K, 17 BB); RP Tyler Bayley (2 SV, 0-1, 2.30 ERA, 11 APP, 5 K, 1 BB); RP Richie Suarez (3-0, 4.05 ERA, 9 APP, 10 K, 14 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 1B Steven Todd (Mercer County CC); OF Jessie Lemmerse; SS Jordan Friedman; 2B Alex Schipske; OF Monny Strickland.

2015 OUTLOOK: The Profs rolled to a 31-12 record last season and participated in the Mid-Atlantic Regional. Five position player starters are

Rank School (2014 Record) Points 1. Wisconsin-Whitewater (44-7) 273 2. Emory, GA (38-13) 270 3. St. Thomas, MN (39-9) 268 4. Linfield, OR (37-9) 265 5. Cortland St., NY (36-10) 261 6. Salisbury, MD (37-9) 258 7. Southern Maine (37-15) 255 8. California Lutheran (36-10) 253 9. Concordia-Chicago, IL (39-7) 250 10. Marietta, OH (30-16) 248 Second Ten 11. Webster, MO (37-7) 245 12. Trinity, TX (33-10) 243 13. Rowan, NJ (31-12) 241 14. Wisconsin-Stevens Point (32-13) 238 15. Kean, NJ (35-14) 235 16. Case Western Reserve, OH (34-12) 231 17. Eastern Connecticut St. (32-9) 229 18. Buena Vista, IA (37-9) 226 19. Birmingham-Southern, AL (35-12) 224 20. Shenandoah, VA (33-11) 220

Third Ten 21. Tufts, MA (34-9) 218 22. Baldwin Wallace, OH (30-20) 216 23. Amherst, MA (30-11) 213 24. Bridgewater, VA (36-14) 210 25. Adrian, MI (33-15) 208 26. Wesleyan, CT (31-12) 206 27. Endicott, MA (34-16) 202 28. Moravian, PA (32-12) 200 29. George Fox, OR (28-12) 196 30. Heidelberg, OH (31-13) 193 Other Teams Receiving Votes: St. John Fisher, NY (31-11), Rhodes, TN (33-17), Gettysburg, PA (33-8), Widener, PA (3313), Ithaca, NY (26-10), MIT (27-15), Rutgers-Camden, NJ (30-13), Chapman, CA (30-13), Washington-St. Louis, MO (28-16), La Roche, PA (31-15), Rose-Hulman, IN (29-18), Worcester State, MA (25-17), Johns Hopkins, MD (22-18), SUNY-Old Westbury, NY (20-22), Oswego State, NY (21-13), Manchester, IN (26-17), Saint Joseph’s, ME (30-15), Union, NY (26-12-1), Bethel, MN (23-12), Concordia, TX (31-14), Montclair St. (22-18), DeSales, PA (27-16), Haverford, PA (23-20), Wheaton, MA (27-16-1), Penn State Erie Behrend, PA (30-14), Redlands, CA (15-23), Widener, PA (33-13), Keystone, PA (27-14), Misericordia, PA (31-15-1), Piedmont, GA (25-14), Rochester, NY (25-16), Anderson, IN (26-15).

Source: Collegiate Baseball back and six pitchers. The team is loaded with a number of upper classmen which has a lot of playoff experience. Key players to watch include DH Casey Grimes (.330, 4 HR, 18 2B, 37 RBI), and RHP Ryan Easterday (5-1, 1.55 ERA, 35 K, 6 BB).

14. WISC.-STEVENS POINT COACH: Pat Bloom (360-161 in 11 years with the Pointers) 2014 RECORD: 32-13 2014 FINISH: Runnerup in Regional TOP RETURNEES: DH Kyle McHugh (.360, 9 HR, 24 2B, 61 RBI); 2B Brandon Kranz (.386, 2 HR, 11 2B, 40 RBI, 6 SB); SS Riley Spetz (.333, 8 2B, 26 RBI, 8 SB); OF Bobby Gregorich (.320, 4 HR, 10 2B, 28 RBI, 11 SB); OF/C Jimmy Coady (.296, 3 HR, 16 2B, 34 RBI, 8 SB); 3B Taylor Carlson (.298, 2 HR, 10 2B, 29 RBI, 9 SB); 1B Cody Hanke (.259, 9 HR, 6 2B, 30 RBI, 4 SB); RHP Luke Watson (8-1, 1.93 ERA, 70 IP, 56 K, 21 BB); RP Nick Prebelski (2 SV, 2-0, 1.16 ERA, 14 APP, 23 K, 5 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Mitch Beau (UWSP on football team); RHP Mark Kowalke (sat out due to transfer rules); UT Aaron Schmidt (Edgewood College); SS Ray Greco (Downers Grove North HS, IL); RHP Cole Erickson (Deerfield HS, WI).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Pointers return seven position player starters and two key pitchers from a team which posted a 32-13 record and participated in regional action. “We graduated one of the deepest pitching classes we have ever had,” said Head Coach Pat Bloom. “So there are innings up for grabs that some of our veteran pitchers are going to inherit. If they do that well, we could have a solid team as both our defense and our offense will be talented and battle tested.” Several quality returners include DH Kyle McHugh (.360, 9 HR, 24 2B, 61 RBI), C/RF Jimmy Coady (.296, 3 HR, 16 2B, 34 RBI) and RHP Luke Watson (8-1, 1.93 ERA, 56 K,2 1 BB).

15. KEAN

COACH: Neil Ioviero (551-209-2 in 16 years with the Cougars) 2014 RECORD: 35-14 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: C DJ Ross (.228, 3 2B, 3 RBI); 1B Sal Taormina (.339, 16 2B, 2 3B, 1 HR, 38 RBI, 3 SB); 2B Ryan Reitmeyer (.316, 6 2B, 2 3B, 23 RBI, 5 SB); 3B Andy Lopez (.274, 9 2B, 4 HR, 29 RBI, 5 SB); OF Ryan Kelley (.248, 5 2B, 27 RBI, 4 SB); OF Matt Meleo (.328, 4 2B, 3 3B, 12 RBI, 12 SB); OF Eric Fernandez (.302, 1 2B, 4 RBI); DH Anthony Fischetti (.286, 1 2B, 1 3B, 9 RBI); RHP Charles Thielmann (4-4, 3.00 ERA, 72 IP, 49 K, 14 BB, 1 SV); RHP Mike Daley (7-1, 3.56 ERA, 73 IP, 37 K, 30 BB); RP Vinny Continued On Page 40

Collegiate Baseball

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Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

NAIA’s Top Baseball Players Featured In Rundown KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The 17-member 2015 NAIA PreSeason Baseball All-America team is headlined by catcher Carlos Contreras of Northwood (FL), one of the top hitters in the country.

Contreras competed for Northwood (TX) last season and has transferred to the sister college in Florida this year.

He hit .453, tying Dontavis Brown of Morris (SC) for the NAIA-lead in batting average in 2014.

The first team All-American had 73 hits in 161 at-bats with 25 doubles, seven home runs and 59 RBI. He was fourth in the nation with a .752 slugging percentage.

Also leading the Pre-Season AllAmericans is left-handed pitcher Conor Lillis-White of British Columbia.

He led all pitchers last year with an earned run average of

0.46 in 78.2 innings pitched. He surrendered only four earned runs in 15 games.

The All-America team was selected by the NAIA-Baseball Coaches Association All-America Committee.

Following the All-America team is a list of Players to Watch for 2015.

This list was compiled by Collegiate Baseball with recommendations from the NAIA coaches.

NAIA Pre-Season All-Americans C Carlos Contreras, Northwood (FL) C Connor Lynch, Oklahoma City 1B Aaron Marshall, Ottawa 2B Paul Pickerell, Belhaven SS Riley Swanson, Mount Vernon Nazarene INF Davon Poole, Saint Mary (KS) 3B Jaime Gurroloa, Sterling OF Jordan Eckley, MidAmerica Nazarene OF Orlando Olivera, Missouri Baptist OF Mitch Peschon, Northwestern (IA) OF Chris Van Brandt, Brewton-Parker DH Jeff Ricker, Oklahoma Baptist SP Russell Harmening, Westmont SP Conor Lillis-White, British Columbia SP Derek Moore, Shawnee State SP Brandon Zywicki, Missouri Baptist RP Steve Karkenny, The Master’s (CA)

NAIA Players To Watch Left-Handed Pitchers Brody Harris, Spring Arbor LJ Rowden, Bryan Alex Riopelle, Rochester Andrew Vasquez, Westmont Austin Guzzon, Corban Brandon Steppis, Doane (NE) David Mullins, Missouri Baptist Jared West, LSU Shreveport Jean Acevedo, Tabor Russell Longworth, Tabor Stetson Nelson, Embry-Riddle

Right-Handed Pitchers Aaron Dick, Mayville State Blake Oliver, Sterling Christian Turnipseed, Georgia Gwinnett Corey Murphy, Davenport Dillon Cotner, Midland (NE) Lance Spongberg, Morningside Lucas Daugherty, Mount Vernon Nazarene Alex Roberts, Georgia Gwinnett Andres Cancio, Southeastern (FL) Andrew Bergmann, Judson Angel Sanchez, Judson Anthony Dixon, Sterling Arturo Martoral, Embry-Riddle Austin Casperson, Doane (NE) Ben Allison, Belhaven Blake Roley, Tabor Casey Tufts, Embry-Riddle Chris Gomez, Oklahoma Baptist See NAIA PLAYERS TO WATCH, Page 42

C ROBERT LlERA

…Hits .390 with 6 HR, 20 2B and 57 RBI for Faulkner

Top 25 NCAA Division III Teams Will Be Loaded In 2015 Continued From Page 39

Zanfordino (5 SV, 3-0, 2.03 ERA, 15 APP, 11 K, 6 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: SS Tom McGuckin; P Chris Rossi (Sommerville HS, NJ); P Kris Fellin (New Jersey City); P Anthony Colletti (Union Catholic, NJ); OF George Gillies (Northern Valley Demarest, NJ); 3B Matt Krupa (Mahwah HS, NJ).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Cougars return virtually every position player starter and a number of key pitchers off a team which rolled to a 35-14 overall record and regional birth. “Our team returns a lot of fire power from last year with tons of seasoned veterans as well as many6 front line newcomers,” said Head Coach Neil Ioviero. “We had a tough year with injuries last season and sub-par play and still managed to earn 35 wins and play in the regional championship game.” Key players to watch include 1B Sal Taormina (.339, 16 2B, 38 RBI), RHP Charles Thielmann (4-4, 3.00 ERA, 49 K, 14 BB) and RHP Mike Daley (7-1, 3.56 ERA, 37 K, 30 BB).

16. CASE WESTERN RESERVE COACH: Matt Englander (184-157-2 with the Spartans) 2014 RECORD: 34-12 2014 FINISH: Runners-Up in Mideast Regional TOP RETURNEES: 3B Andrew Gronski (.439, 6 HR, 11 2B, 4 3B, 43 RBI, 3 SB); 2B Kerrigan Cain (.381, 1 HR, 10 2B, 43 RBI, 8 SB); C Jordan Swisher (.380, 7 HR, 16 2B, 33 RBI, 3 SB); OF Aaron Cain (.326, 8 2B, 23 RBI, 1 SB); OF Antonio Damiano (.292, 9 2B, 19 RBI, 6 SB); RHP Jake Shield (6-2, 3.06 ERA, 47 IP, 47 K, 22 BB); RHP Kevin Johnstone (4-3, 5.56 ERA, 56.2 IP, 48 K, 20 BB, 1 SV); RP Dan Sondag (5 SV, 2-1, 2.86 ERA, 13 APP, 33 K, 9 BB); RP Rob Winemiller (1 SV, 1-0, 4.05 ERA, 13 APP, 21 K, 18 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Ben Murphy (Wooster HS, OH); INF Alex Captillo (Turpin HS, OH); OF Daniel Watson (Priory HS, MO); LHP Liam Killingstad (Key School, MD); INF Danny Souza (La Palma HS, CA).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Spartans posted a 34-12 record last season and finished second at the Mideast Regional. Five position player starters are back along with four key pitchers. “We believe we have a solid group again this year that will challenge for a third consecutive University Athletic Association championship and a possible berth to the World Series,” said Head Coach Matt Englander. Key players to watch include 3B Andrew Gronski (.439, 6 HR, 11 2B, 43 RBI) and RHP Jake Shields (6-2, 3.06 ERA, 47 K, 22 BB).

17. EASTERN CONN. ST.

COACH: Matt LaBranche (32-9 in first year with the Warriors; 462-196 overall) 2014 RECORD: 32-9 2014 FINISH: Participated in Northeast Regional TOP RETURNEES: OF Joe Perez (.273, 2 2B, 17 RBI, 9 SB); C Tim Budd (.255, 3 2B, 17 RBI); 2B Corey Keane (.329, 1 HR, 10 2B, 23 RBI, 10 SB); OF Andrew Scully (.339, 1 HR, 1 2B, 13 RBI, 4 SB); OF Kyle Hart (.289, 9 2B, 20 RBI, 11 SB); RHP Tyler Cyr (2-1, 3.41 ERA, 31.2 IP, 12 K, 9 BB); RP Adam Merrit (6 SV, 2-2, 0.00 ERA, 18 APP, 18 K); RP Matt D’Orsi (1-0, 0.83 ERA, 16 APP, 18 K, 8 BB).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Warriors posted a 32-9 record last season and participated in the Northeast Regional. Five position player starters return along with three key pitchers including closer Adam Merritt (6 SV, 2-2, 0.00 ERA in 18 APP). “We return a strong nucleus of players who tasted success in the regular season and through the conference tournament in 2014,” said Head Coach Matt LaBranche. “A disappointing finish in the regional left us hungry to build on the success we had last season.”

18. BUENA VISTA

COACH: Steve Eddie (313-247-2 with the Beavers) 2014 RECORD: 37-9 2014 FINISH: Participated in Central Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Brandon Wessels (.362, 5 HR, 7 2B, 36 RBI, 8 SB); OF Neil Marshall (.376, 1 HR, 12 2B, 30 RBI, 16 SB); OF Tanner Truesdell (.329, 3 HR, 11 2B, 36 RBI, 3 SB); SS Bryce Wessels (.291, 1 HR, 11 2B, 26 RBI, 3 SB); 1B Eric Gurbacki (.300, 5 2B, 8 RBI); LHP Justin Lange (2-0, 2.25 ERA, 36 IP, 36 K, 16 BB); RHP Jake Bjorkgren (5-1, 5.04 ERA, 44.2 IP, 31 K, 7 BB); RP Ian Grigsby (8 SV, 2-2, 0.74 ERA, 15 APP, 30 K, 8 BB); RP Lucas Hadaway (4 SV, 4-1, 2.28 ERA, 18 APP, 41 K, 9 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Bennett Mann (Marshalltown CC); 3B Thomas Wisecup (Sergeant Bluff-Luton HS, IA); 2B Noah Paper (West Fargo HS, ND); OF Devin Wagenman (West Fargo HS, ND); LHP Keenan Jones (Ankeny Centennial HS, IA).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Beavers participated in the Central Regional last season and posted a 37-9 overall record. Five position player starters are back along with nine key pitchers. “We replaced two great arms, but we should have enough returners to have quality depth,” said Head Coach Steve Eddie. “If we can replace the defensive players we lost to graduation, we should be able to contend for another conference championship.” Key

returners include C Brandon Wessels (.362, 5 HR, 7 2B, 36 RBI) and RHP Ian Grigsby (8 SV, 2-2, 0.74 ERA, 30 K, 8 BB).

19. BIRMINGHAM-SOUTHERN COACH: Jan Weisberg (216-81 with the Panthers; 236-101 overall) 2014 RECORD: 35-12 2014 FINISH: Regional qualifier TOP RETURNEES: C Jacob Mayfield (.361, 6 HR, 17 2B, 36 RBI, 10 SB); SS Matt Brown (.345, 11 2B, 27 RBI, 19 SB); 1B Zach Wingate (.326, 14 2B, 32 RBI, 2 SB); DH/RP David Bourbonnais (.283, 5 2B, 19 RBI, 7 SB, 5 SV, 5-0, 0.61 ERA, 29.1 IP, 33 K, 12 BB); 2B Wes Kent (.267, 4 2B, 10 RBI, 6 SB); 3B Taylor McCracken (.244, 3 2B, 12 RBI, 10 SB); RHP Blake Stevens (8-2, 1.06 ERA, 85 IP, 77 K, 12 BB); RHP Ryan Gaines (4-0, 2.64 ERA, 44.1 IP, 32 K, 8 BB); RP Wilson Jamison (2-0, 0.52, 17 IP, 14 K, 5 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Ross Anderson (Section HS, AL); RHP Miller Bonds (Charleston Southern Univ); RHP Ross James (Notre Dame HS, MO).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Panthers rolled to a 35-12 record last season and return six position player starters and eight superb pitchers including RHP Blake Stevens (8-2, 1.06 ERA, 77 K, 12 BB). Other players to watch include closer David Bourbonnais (5 SV, 5-0, 0.61 ERA), C Jacob Mayfield (.361, 6 HR, 17 2B, 36 RBI, 10 SB), SS Matt Brown (.345, 11 2B, 27 RBI, 19/22 SB) and 1B Zach Wingate (.326, 15 2B, 32 RBI).

20. SHENANDOAH

COACH: Kevin Anderson (322-155-1 in 11 years with the Hornets; 469259-1 overall) 2014 RECORD: 33-11 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Danny Freshley (.328, 3 HR, 10 2B, 33 RBI, 7 SB); 2B JJ McDaniel (.296, 4 HR, 8 2B, 33 RBI, 7 SB); 3B Michael Paul (.444, 9 HR, 21 2B, 62 RBI, 2 SB); SS Billy Arens (.404, 5 2B, 32 RBI, 10 SB); OF Lew Johnson (.346, 10 2B, 17 RBI, 6 SB); OF Corbin Lucas (.347, 2 HR, 18 2B, 30 RBI, 7 SB); OF Ricky Pardo (.323, 1 2B, 9 RBI, 3 SB); DH Nolan Overby (.349, 5 HR, 9 2B, 37 RBI, 6 SB); SS John Wilt (DNP); LHP Darrell Thompson (10-2, 2.40 ERA, 86.1 IP, 75 K, 15 BB); LHP Michael Scimanico (4-0, 5.44 ERA, 43 IP, 43 K, 31 BB, 1 SV); RHP Phillip Morse (3-5, 6.36 ERA, 46.2 IP, 34 K, 25 BB); RP Matt Riegler (4 SV, 1-1, 3.20 ERA, 16 APP, 23 K, 11 BB); RP Garrett Wooddell (1 SV, 1-0, 1.89 ERA, 15 APP, 12 K, 4 BB).

2014 FINISH: Fifth at NCAA Division III World Series

TOP RETURNEES: 1B Kyle Chontos (.370, 5 HR, 19 2B, 50 RBI, 13 SB); 2B Mark Zimmerman (.373, 3 HR, 15 2B, 44 RBI, 8 SB); SS Eric Murphy (.309, 1 HR, 13 2B, 42 RBI, 5 SB); DH Hunter Handel (.385, 4 HR, 8 2B, 47 RBI, 1 SB); OF Jerry Scholle (.306, 6 2B, 11 RBI, 18 SB); OF John Taylor (.277, 4 2B, 12 RBI, 7 SB); OF Alex Green (.296, 1 HR, 10 2B, 27 RBI, 6 SB); RHP Cory Waite (7-3, 3.51 ERA, 84.2 IP, 42 K, 25 BB); RHP Alex Albright (5-2, 4.65 ERA, 60 IP, 41 K, 21 BB); RHP Logan Heffernan (4-4, 3.89 ERA, 44 IP, 35 K, 9 BB); RP Brandon Cichocki (8 SV, 2-2, 2.27 ERA, 26 APP, 32 K, 11 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: LHP Evan Lovick (Mentor HS, OH); RHP Nick Patrone (Bellaire HS, OH); C Trent Kaltenback (Jonathan Alder HS, OH); OF Phil Wells (St. Joseph’s HS, NY); OF Matt Smith (Olentangy Orange HS, OH).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Yellow Jackets finished tied for fifth at the NCAA Division III World Series and return seven position player starters and three key pitchers including RHP Cory Waite (7-3, 3.51 ERA, 42 K). One outstanding position player to watch is 1B Kyle Chontos (.370, 5 HR).

23. AMHERST

COACH: Brian Hamm (126-55 in 5 years with the Lord Jeffs) 2014 RECORD: 30-11 2014 FINISH: Participated in New York Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Conner Gunn (.307, 4 HR, 9 2B, 23 RBI, 2 SB); 1B Dave Cunningham (.277, 2 HR, 2 2B, 10 RBI); 2B Andrew Vandini (.309, 25 RBI, 3 SB); 3B Tyler Jacobs (.295, 2 HR, 10 2B, 27 RBI, 8 SB); OF/RHP Mike Odenwaelder (.400, 6 HR, 7 2B, 31 RBI, 14 SB, 2-1, 1.74 ERA, 20.2 IP, 21 K, 6 BB); OF Anthony Spina (.261, 2 HR, 6 2B, 16 RBI, 11 SB); OF Yanni Thanopolous (.315, 10 2B, 26 RBI, 14 SB); LHP John Cook (5-3, 1.95 ERA, 64.2 IP, 67 K, 6 BB); RHP Keenan Szulik (6-0, 4.56 ERA, 49.1 IP, 38 K, 16 BB); RP Riley Streit (1-0, 3.38 ERA, 13.1 IP, 11 K); RP Jackson Volle (1 SV, 0-0, 2.77 ERA, 13 IP, 16 K, 9 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: MIF Harry Roberson (Bellmont HS, MA); MIF Sam Ellinwood (Staples HS, CT); MIF Max Steinhorn (Walt Whitman HS, MD); C Joe Feldman (Bethesda Chevy Chase HS, MD); P Drew Fischer (New Trier HS, IL); P JR Anderson (New Canaan HS, CT); P Sam Schneider (La Jolla HS, CA).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Lord Jeffs were 30-11 last season and participated in the New York Regional. Seven position player starters are back along with four key pitchers. One player to watch is duel position athlete 1B/P Mike Odenwaelder (.400, 6 HR, 7 2B, 31 RBI, 14 SB, 2-1, 1.74 ERA).

TOP NEWCOMERS: SP Colin Morse (McLean HS, VA); OF Joe Coleman (Montgomery CC); 1B Mattison Hendershot (Millbrook HS, VA); C Ryan Mossman (Point College).

24. BRIDGEWATER

2015 OUTLOOK: The Hornets posted a 33-1 record last season and were 3-2 in regional action. Eight position player starters are back along with five key pitchers. Two superb players to keep your eye on include 3B Michael Paul (.444, 9 HR, 21 2B, 62 RBI) and LHP Darrell Thompson (10-2, 2.40 ERA, 75 K, 15 BB).

2014 RECORD: 36-14

21. TUFTS

COACH: John Casey (608-367-4 with the Jumbos) 2014 RECORD: 34-9 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: OF Connor McDavitt (.345, 14 2B, 26 RBI, 15 SB); SS Matt Moser (.299, 2 HR, 10 2B, 38 RBI, 4 SB); OF/C Nick Barker (.346, 1 HR, 4 2B, 13 RBI, 2 SB); OF/1B James Howard (.280, 4 2B, 11 RBI, 1 SB); C Bryan Egan (.258, 2 2B, 9 RBI); INF Tom Petry (.256, 7 2B, 17 RBI, 3 SB); OF Oscar Kutch (.241, 5 2B, 10 RBI); OF Cody McCallum (.226, 8 RBI, 7 SB); LHP Kyle Slinger (9-0, 1.18 ERA, 76 IP, 73 K, 27 BB); LHP Tim Superko (4-2, 2.64 ERA, 58 IP, 51 K, 21 BB, 2 SV); RHP Andrew David (4-3, 3.60 ERA, 35 IP, 19 K, 9 BB, 1 SV); RP Tom Ryan (4 SV, 2-1, 2.06 ERA, 14 APP, 37 K, 13 BB); RP Willie Archibald (2 SV, 3-2, 4.21 ERA, 12 APP, 25 K, 13 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: INF Tom O’Hara (Glenbrook South HS, IL); OF Stephan White (Salisbury School, CT); INF Christian Zazzali (Scotch Plains HS, NJ); RHP Zach Brown (The Weber School, GA); OF/P Jeff Adams (Matthew Maury HS, VA); INF Boomer Saraga (Spanish River HS, FL); 1B/P Sid Warrenbrand (Lincoln Sudbury HS, MA).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Jumbos were 34-9 last season and return eight position player starters and 10 pitchers led by LHP Kyle Slinger (9-0, 1.18 ERA, 73 K, 27 BB). Other players to watch include OF Connor McDavitt (.345, 14 2B, 28 RBI, 15 SB) and SS Matt Moser (.299, 10 2B, 38 RBI). “We are looking to build on last year’s successful run,” said Head Coach John Casey. “Our strength will be on the mound again with hopes that a strong core of returning position players will lead the offense in 2015.”

22. BALDWIN WALLACE

COACH: Brian Harrison (101-63 with the Yellow Jackets; 242-192 overall) 2014 RECORD: 30-20

COACH: Curt Kendall (696-428-8 in 29 years with the Eagles) 2014 FINISH: Runners-up in Region TOP RETURNEES: OF Darren Yoder (.235, 1 HR, 2 2B, 20 RBI, 2 SB); OF Derrik Walling (.266, 2 HR, 3 2B, 13 RBI, 6 SB); 3B Justin Petock (.292, 2 HR, 9 2B, 34 RBI, 4 SB); 1B Brendan Howell (.326, 4 HR, 14 2B, 32 RBI, 4 SB); C Hunter Hensley (.284, 6 2B, 5 RBI, 1 SB); DH Bay Liskey (.252, 4 HR, 8 2B, 17 RBI, 7 SB); LHP Corey Armentrout (6-4, 3.68 ERA, 80.2 IP, 68 K, 34 BB, 4 SV); LHP Jordan Showalter (3-1, 1.40 ERA, 38.2 IP, 29 K, 17 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: INF Austin Patton (William Monroe HS, VA); LHP Chad Lenz (Frank Cox HS, VA); RHP Ian Mays (Clover Hills HS, VA).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Eagles rolled to a 36-14 record last season and were second in regional competition. Six position player starters are back along with two key pitchers including LHP Corey Armentrout (6-4, 3.68 ERA, 68 K, 34 BB). “Position wise, we should be similar to the 2014 squad,” said Head Coach Curt Kendall. “Our pitching staff will be young and unproven but talented.” Two position players to watch include 3B Justin Petock (.292, 2 HR, 9 2B, 34 RBI) and 1B Brendan Howell (.326, 4 HR, 14 2B, 32 RBI).

25. ADRIAN

COACH: Craig Rainey (521-362 in 21 years with the Bulldogs) 2014 RECORD: 33-15 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Dakota Cararo (.440, 2 2B, 6 RBI); SS Ryan Dorow (.392, 5 HR, 21 2B, 40 RBI, 2 SB); 2B Ben Yax (.250, 2 2B, 19 RBI, 5 SB); OF Drew Shutes (.287, 1 HR, 13 2B, 29 RBI, 10 SB); OF Jeff Gertley (.295, 1 HR, 3 2B, 4 RBI, 1 SB); RHP Eric Schmidt (7-0, 3.16 ERA, 57 IP, 48 K, 23 BB); RHP Tommy Eng (2-3, 3.38 ERA, 18 IP, 18 K 8 BB, 5 SV); RHP Greg Sombati (1-2, 4.13 ERA, 28 IP, 12 K, 8 BB, 2 SV).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 1B Zach Wilds (Northville HS, MI); 1B/DH Collin Parcher (Ohio Dominican Univ); 3B Brian Guck; OF Josh Knorr (Jackson CC); P Cole Knaup (Jackson CC).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Bulldogs rolled to a 33-15 record last season and were a regional finalist. Five position player starters are back along with three key pitchers. Two key players to watch are SS Ryan Dorow (.398, 5 HR, 21 2B, 40 RBI) and RHP Eric Schmidt (7-0, 3.16 ERA, 48 K, 23 BB).

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Collegiate Baseball

Page 41

NAIA Preview: Cumberland No. 1 With Key Recruits 1. CUMBERLAND

NAIA Baseball 2015 Top 25 Poll

COACH: Woody Hunt (1,391-578 in 30 years with the Bulldogs; 1,452604 overall) 2014 RECORD: 49-20 2014 FINISH: National champions TOP RETURNEES: OF Justin Byrd (.328, 6 HR, 10 2B, 35 RBI, 18 SB); C Tyler Alford (.164, 1 HR, 5 2B, 16 RBI); RHP Clint Meadows (8-4, 4.14 ERA, 78.1 IP, 30 K, 33 BB); LHP Marc Monroe (3-0, 2.35 ERA, 23 IP, 17 K, 2 BB); RP Stevie Smith (1 SV, 6-1, 4.39 ERA, 41 IP, 32 K, 13 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: SS Hector Viera (Southeastern CC); 2B Phillip Stiles (Burlington CC); INF Jonathan Larson (East Los Angeles College); LHP Julian Kelly (Chabot CC); OF Ryan Dickison (Long Beach City College); OF Richard Carter (Coastal Carolina Univ); LHP Brandon Anderson (Finger Lakes CC).

KEY LOSSES: 1B Brady North (.283, 12 HR, 14 2B, 59 RBI); 2B Sam Lind (.404, 16 HR, 17 2B, 91 RBI); SS Tyler Anderson (.304, 1 HR, 14 2B, 44 RBI); 3B Ricky Coleman (.381, 4 HR, 24 2B, 58 RBI); LHP Anthony Gomez (7-4, 2.28 ERA, 118.1 IP, 113 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: The defending national champions rolled to a 49-20 record last season and return two position player starters and three key pitchers including RHP Clint Meadows (8-4, 4.14 ERA, 30 K), LHP Marc Monroe (3-0, 2.35 ERA, 17 K), and RHP Stevie Smith (6-1, 4.39 ERA, 32 K). Cumberland re-loaded with an exceptional recruiting class of 15 players which features SS Hector Viera (Southeastern C.C.), 2B Phillip Stiles (Burlington C.C.), 1B Jonathan Larson (East Los Angeles), LHP Julian Kelly (Chabot C.C.), OF Ryan Dickison (Long Beach City College), OF Richard Carter (Coastal Carolina) and LHP Brandon Anderson (Finger Lakes C.C.). “This will be an entirely different team this season,” said Head Coach Woody Hunt. “We have to replace 15 seniors and one transfers. We will go through some growing pains early, but this should be a solid unit.”

2. LEWIS-CLARK ST.

COACH: Jeremiah Robbins (92-24 with the Warriors; 344-133 overall)

OF ORLANDO OLIVERA

…455, 11 HR, 19 2B, 64 RBI for Missouri Baptist

TOP RETURNEES: INF Mike Sexton (.298, 2 HR, 10 2B, 55 RBI); P/1B Ty Jackson (.254, 7 HR, 4 2B, 37 RBI, 4-1, 2.73 ERA, 29.2 IP, 13 K, 9 BB); RP Beau Kerns (5-0, 3.00 ERA, 13 APP, 22 K, 6 BB); RP Gunnar Swanson (5-2, 2.90 ERA, 16 APP, 45 K, 11 BB).

TOP RETURNEES: C Robert Llera (.390, 6 HR, 20 2B, 57 RBI, 2 SB); OF Chris Madera (.300, 4 HR, 9 2B, 41 RBI, 36 SB); 3B Edgar Figueroa (.288, 1 2B, 13 RBI, 20 SB); DH Randy Joung (.311, 1 HR, 9 2B, 15 RBI, 2 SB); UT Mike Correa (.250, 3 2B, 6 RBI); OF Kevin Torres (.238, 3 2B, 2 RBI, 6 SB); RHP Julian Esquibel (injured in 2014); RHP Kurt Lipscomb (5-2, 2.35 ERA, 65 IP, 39 K, 21 BB, 3 SV); RP Patrick McGrady (2 SV, 5-0, 2.45 ERA, 27 APP, 27 K, 10 BB); RP Vinny Lujan (5-0, 3.56 ERA, 18 APP, 38 K, 15 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: SS Max Whitt (did not play); P/1B Cameron Pongs (Long Beach State); INF Cabe Reiten (Gonzaga); INF Seth Brown (redshirt); OF Matt Becker (Edmonds CC); C Julian Ramon (Oxnard CC); INF Robert Smith (Chabot CC).

TOP NEWCOMERS: INF Yariel Gonzales (Connors State); 1B Mario Amaral (Miami Dade CC); INF Dennis Morton (Palomar College); OF Jose Gomez (Miami Dade CC); OF Nick Cain (USC Salkehatchie); OF Alexis Torres (New Mexico JC); RHP Jack Charleston (Flagler College).

KEY LOSSES: C Jake Shirley (1st Team All-American); OF Ryan Sells (All-American); P Mike Noteware (graduated); P David Murillo (graduated); C Kevin Hawk (World Series Gold Glove).

KEY LOSSES: OF Esteban Paula (.321, 12 2B, 26 SB); 3B Sergio Sanchez (.302, 3 HR, 12 2B, 32 RBI); RHP Jay Gause (4-3, 2.17 ERA, 58 IP, 83 K); LHP Thomas Dorminy (11-3, 3.22 ERA, 109 IP, 131 K); RHP Jeremy Holcombe (10-4, 2.51 ERA, 104 IP, 89 K).

2014 RECORD: 47-9 2014 FINISH: Second Place in NAIA World Series

2015 OUTLOOK: The Warriors finished second at the NAIA World Series last year in rolling to a 47-9 record. Lewis-Clark only returns two position player starters and 3 key pitchers. But a superb recruiting class of 30 players has infused tremendous talent into the program once again. One player to watch is 1B Seth Brown who redshirted last year but has remarkable talent.

Other players to watch include 3B Mike Sexton (.298, 10 2B, 55 RBI), RHP Ty Jackson (4-1, 2.73 ERA), closer Gunnar Swanson (5-2, 2.90 ERA, 45 K) and P/1B Cameron Pongs (transfer from Long Beach St.).

3. OKLAHOMA WESLEYAN COACH: Matt Parker (131-56 in four years with the Eagles) 2014 RECORD: 58-8 2014 FINISH: Third place in NAIA World Series TOP RETURNEES: 2B Jeff Butler (.373, 1 HR, 8 2B, 49 RBI, 19 SB); SS Avery Flores (.346, 11 2B, 42 RBI, 18 SB); DH Will Price (.305, 5 HR, 12 2B, 44 RBI, 7 SB); C Brandon Cummings (.281, 8 2B, 21 RBI, 1 SB); OF Asa Manship (.241, 3 2B, 20 RBI, 4 SB); RHP Sam Haynes (9-3, 3.34 ERA, 70 IP, 30 K, 16 BB); RHP Juan Berumen (8-1, 4.12 ERA, 74.1 IP, 71 K, 35 BB); RP CJ Gregory (14 SV, 5-2, 3.00 ERA, 30 APP, 37 K, 12 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Jason Wilcoxson (San Bernardino Valley CC); INF Zair Koeiman (Wichita State); INF David Espinoza (Coffeyville CC); P Hugo Lemus (Yakima Valley CC).

KEY LOSSES: OF Jose Ruiz (NAIA National Player of the Year); .405, 22 2B, 15 HR, 91 RBI); P Zach Hendrix (10-0, 2.60 ERA, 104 IP, 86 K).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Eagles rolled to a 58-8 overall record last season and finished third at the NAIA World Series. Five position player starters are back along with four key pitchers. “This team returns a lot of experience in the middle of our diamond,” said Head Coach Matt Parker. “We expect great leadership from those guys. Also, our pitching staff will return several guys with championship experience. We are hopeful that they will mesh well with our incoming players.” Key players to watch include OF Jason Wilcoxson (transfer from San Bernardino Valley C.C., .412, 15 2B, 13 SB), 2B Jeff Butler (.373, 8 2B, 49 RBI, 19/21 SB), P Hugo Lemus (8-1, 2.58 ERA at Yakima Valley C.C., WA), RHP Sam Haynes (9-3, 3.34 ERA), and closer C.J. Gregory (14 SV, 5-2, 3.00 ERA).

4. OKLAHOMA BAPTIST

COACH: Bobby Cox (1,164-565 in 30 years with the Bison) 2014 RECORD: 55-9 2014 FINISH: Fourth Place in NAIA World Series TOP RETURNEES: OF Joey Szczepanski (.380, 5 HR, 14 2B, 53 RBI, 18 SB); INF Jeff Ricker (.349, 3 HR, 14 2B, 35 RBI, 13 SB); C Garrett Gallacher (.375, 1 HR, 11 2B, 31 RBI); RHP Kelvin Rivas (10-1, 1.99 ERA, 72.1 IP, 66 K, 22 BB); RHP Jinny Parra (8-2, 2.44 ERA, 77.1 IP, 60 K, 17 BB, 2 SV).

TOP NEWCOMERS: SS Keach Ballard (Univ of Oklahoma); RHP Chris Gomez (Mission College); LHP Taylor Hearn (San Jacinto College); LHP Nathan Thompson (Allan Hancock JC); 3B Landon Coon (Eastern Oklahoma State College); RHP Chad Bennett (College of the Canyons); RHP Brad Adams (Grayson College).

KEY LOSSES: OF Matt Page (1st Team All-American); RHP Julian Merryweather (1st Team All-American); SS Ivan Vela (2nd Team AllAmerican).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Bison posted an impressive 55-9 record last season and finished fourth at the NAIA World Series. Three position player starters are back along with two key pitchers. Oklahoma Baptist landed a superb recruiting class of 10 players. Key players to watch include OF Joey Szczepanski (.380, 5 HR, 14 2B, 53 RBI, 18 SB), RHP Kelvin Rivas (10-1, 1.99 ERA, 66 K, 22 BB), RHP Chris Gomez (transfer from Mission College) and RHP Jinny Parra (8-2, 2.44 ERA, 60 K, 17 BB).

5. FAULKNER

COACH: Patrick McCarthy (241-76 with the Eagles; 399-184 overall) 2014 RECORD: 50-16 2014 FINISH: Fifth Place at NAIA World Series

Rank Team 2014 Record Points 1. Cumberland, TN (49-20) 560 2. Lewis-Clark St., ID (47-9) 535 3. Oklahoma Wesleyan (58-8) 524 4. Oklahoma Baptist (55-7) 503 5. Faulkner, AL (50-16) 490 6. Georgia Gwinnett (53-13) 476 7. Tabor, KS (51-12) 437 8. Georgetown, KY (46-11) 429 9. Missouri Baptist (47-14) 423 10. LSU Shreveport, LA (45-18) 405 Second Ten 11. Embry-Riddle, FL (40-21) 383 12. Bellevue, NE (40-17-2) 331 13. Southeastern, FL (46-16) 317 14. Belhaven, MS (42-21) 290 Doane, NE (42-11) 290 16. Oklahoma City (39-19) 289 17. Mt. Vernon Nazarene, OH (44-12) 287 18. Concordia, CA (34-17) 273 19. Davenport, MI (42-17) 227 20. The Master’s, CA (37-18) 175 Third Five 21. Brewton-Parker, GA (32-11) 172 22. Point Park, PA (40-18) 155 23. Tennessee Wesleyan (35-24-1) 151 24. British Columbia (35-13) 105 25. William Woods, MO (39-12) 102

Others Receiving Votes: Jamestown, ND (98), Sterling, KS (92), Mid-America Nazarene, KS (67), Midland, NE (51), Judson, IL (49), Talladega, AL (32), Spring Arbor, MI (28), Westmont, CA (17), Northwestern, IA (15), Bryan, TN (13), Campbellsville, KY (10), Fisher, MA (10), Mayville St., ND (9), Northwestern, OH (7), Lindsey Wilson, KY (4), Science & Arts, OK (4).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Eagles posted a 50-16 record last season and finished fifth at the NAIA World Series. Three position player starters are back along with four key pitchers including RHP Julian Esquibel (11-2, 2.71 ERA, 78 K during 2013 season). Esquibel was the Eagles top pitcher on the 2013 national championship team. He had Tommy John surgery in March of 2014 and is expected to be back by April of 2015 to pitch the last part of the season. Two superb position player returners are C Robert Liera (.390, 6 HR, 20 2B, 57 RBI, Southern States Athletic Conference Player of Year) and CF Chris Madera (.300, 4 HR, 9 2B, 41 RBI, 36 SB). Faulkner has qualified for the NAIA World Series three of the last four years and is averaging 50 wins over the last four seasons.

team,” said Head Coach Mark Standiford. “We are deeper on the mound, and I believe stronger 1-9 offensively. It will all depend on how long it takes us to figure out our roles and develop the team chemistry needed to have a successful season.”

6. GEORGIA GWINNETT

8. GEORGETOWN

COACH: Brad Stromdahl (83-38 with the Grizzlies)

COACH: Micah Baumfeld (127-39 in 3 years with the Tigers)

2014 RECORD: 53-13

2014 RECORD: 46-11

2014 FINISH: Sixth Place in NAIA World Series

2014 FINISH: Tied for seventh at NAIA World Series

TOP RETURNEES: OF Tyler Abbott (.321, 4 HR, 12 2B, 46 RBI, 26 SB); 3B William Paschal (.333, 7 2B, 32 RBI, 2 SB); 2B Jereid Woods (.331, 1 HR, 3 2B, 25 RBI, 25 SB); RHP Alex Roberts (9-2, 3.24 ERA, 91.2 IP, 88 K, 36 BB, 1 SV); LHP Brandon MacKinnon (5-1, 3.55 ERA, 50.2 IP, 48 K, 26 BB); RP Andy Threatt (2-0, 1.56 ERA, 17.1 IP, 17 K, 13 BB); RP Ryan Turner (3-0, 4.13 ERA, 28.1 IP, 23 K, 5 BB, 3 SV).

TOP RETURNEES: SS Steven Mancilla (.332, 2 HR, 9 2B, 36 RBI, 6 SB); OF David Higuera (.327, 4 2B, 20 RBI, 3 SB); 2B Ryan Rodriguez (.297, 2 2B, 15 RBI, 6 SB); UT Trey Gross (.289, 10 2B, 15 RBI, 8 SB); OF Duran Elmore (.286, 2 HR, 4 2B, 24 RBI, 28 SB); 3B Rick Reyes (.228, 3 HR, 4 2B, 22 RBI, 3 SB); RHP Tyler Arthur (8-0, 1.63 ERA, 99.2 IP, 66 K, 21 BB); LHP Brian Barry (8-2, 3.66 ERA, 71.1 IP, 42 K, 23 BB); RHP Beau Bowen (4-1, 4.35 ERA, 41.1 IP, 29 K, 10 BB); RP Craig Ramsey (7 SV, 5-1, 0.92 ERA, 21 APP, 51 K, 19 BB); RP Leo DeLaRosa (1-0, 1.89 ERA, 10 APP, 16 K, 3 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Christian Turnipseed (North Georgia College); RHP Heath Durand (Georgia Military College); RHP Michael Royal (Northwest Florida State); OF Jake Wright (Cleveland State); OF Michael Hodorowski (Georgia Tech); RHP Davis Adkins (Darton College ); RHP Nikoli Uherek (Lee Univ).

KEY LOSSES: RHP Zeke McGranahan (34 IP, 39 K, 7 SV, World Series All-Tournament team); C John Fidanza (All-Region, All-Conference); RHP Tyler Carpenter (World Series MVP); OF Phillip Bates (Led offense in all categories, .377, 45 RBI, 33 SB, 74 R).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Grizzlies finished sixth at the NAIA World Series last season and posted a 53-13 overall record. Five position player starters are back along with four key pitchers. Key players to watch include RHP Christain Turnipseed (transfer from North Georgia), RHP Heath Durand (Georgia Military College), RHP Alex Roberts (9-2, 3.24 ERA, 88 K, 36 BB), and 1B Tyler Abbott (.321, 4 HR, 12 2B, 46 RBI, 26/27 SB). “Our pitching staff is very strong with multiple potential drafts,” said Head Coach Brad Stromdahl.

“Offensively, we hope to lead the country in stolen bases again and make a return trip to Lewis, Idaho for the NAIA World Series.”

7. TABOR

COACH: Mark Standiford (235-106 in 6 years with the Bluejays) 2014 RECORD: 51-12 2014 FINISH: Fifth Place in NAIA World Series TOP RETURNEES: SS Gadiel Baez (.280, 1 HR, 16 2B, 32 RBI, 24 SB); C/1B Armando Castillo (.340, 3 HR, 5 2B, 28 RBI); 1B Colton Flax (.307, 4 HR, 10 2B, 27 RBI); LHP Jean Acevedo (8-2, 3.98 ERA, 83.2 IP, 87 K, 25 BB); LHP Russell Longworth (10-2, 4.10 ERA, 74.2 IP, 54 K, 12 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: C Matt Mulbury (Central Missouri State); 1B Alex Couch (Virginian Intermont); SS Michael Baca (Texas-Pan American); OF Brent McClure (Phoenix College); RHP Blake Roley (Carl Albert CC); RHP David Renteria (South Mountain CC); RHP Manny Deleon (Iowa Lakes CC).

KEY LOSSES: OF Kirk Rocha (.450, NAIA All-American); RHP Jacob Webb (11-4, 1.88 ERA, NAIA All-American); RHP Junior Mustain (12-2, 1.91 ERA, NAIA All-American); RHP Alex Mann (4-3, 4 SV, 1.55 ERA); OF Grant Silva (.340, 40 SB).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Bluejays finished fifth at the NAIA World Series last season and rolled to a 51-12 overall record. Three position player starters are back along with two key pitchers in LHP Jean Acevedo (8-2, 3.98 ERA, 87 K, 25 BB), and LHP Russell Longworth (10-2, 4.10 ERA, 54 K, 12 BB). Tabor landed a superb recruiting class of 28 players which includes SS Michael Baca (transfer from Texas-Pan American), RHP Blake Roley (transfer from Carl Albert C.C.) and RHP/3B Manny Deleon (transfer from Iowa Lakes C.C.). “Overall, we have a chance to be better than last year’s

Source: NAIA

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Gage Curry (Texas A&M Corpus Christi); RHP Romna Davalos (East Los Angeles CC); C Jovan Hernandez (Navarro JC); INF Chaz Meadows (Los Medanos College); C/OF Oliver Jackson (Fullerton JC); RHP Ricky Schafer (Cypress JC); 1B Trevor Russell (North Lake JC).

KEY LOSSES: 1B Martin Lemus (1st Team All-American); RHP Shaun Meyer (9-2, 3.24 ERA); C Armando Lomeli (.322, 5 2B); OF Tyler Coker (.311, 13 2B, 3 HR); P/DH Edwin Santiago (7-4, 2.52 ERA, .400 BA); Justin Moore (.343, 10 2B, 16 SB).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Tigers posted a 46-11 overall record and finished tied for seventh at the NAIA World Series. Five position player starters are back along with four superb pitchers led by RHP Tyler Arthur (8-0, 1.63 ERA, 66 K, 22 BB), and closer Craig Ramsey (7 SV, 5-1, 0.92 ERA, 51 K, 19 BB). A superb returning position player is SS Steven Mancilla (.332, 2 HR, 9 2B, 36 RBI). “Pitching depth will be a strong point,” said Head Coach Micah Baumfeld. “We have an offensive team that is very athletic, and our defense will be strong.”

9. MISSOURI BAPTIST

COACH: Eddie Uschold (572-278-2 with the Spartans; 588-302-2 overall) 2014 RECORD: 47-14 2014 FINISH: Lost in Regionals TOP RETURNEES: OF Orlando Olivera (.455, 11 HR, 19 2B, 64 RBI, 7 SB); OF Eli Roundtree (.328, 9 HR, 10 2B, 41 RBI, 7 SB); INF Jeff Smith (.293, 8 HR, 10 2B, 39 RBI, 20 SB); OF Trevin Craig (.311, 5 2B, 11 RBI, 8 SB); LHP David Mullins (8-1, 2.13 ERA, 80.1 IP, 58 K, 18 BB); RHP Michael Yarborough (10-1, 2.77 ERA, 78 IP, 67 K, 20 BB); RHP Brandon Zywicki (11-1, 3.05 ERA, 97.1 IP, 66 K, 22 BB); RP Mike Murano (8 SV, 3-4, 3.03 ERA, 21 APP, 22 K, 13 BB); RP Carl Jameson (2 SV, 2-3, 3.58 ERA, 17 APP, 38 K, 11 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Marcus Crescentini (Univ of Tampa); 1B/P Aaron Pangilinan (Modesto JC); OF Brian Poupore (Univ of Kansas); C Hector Candelaria (NE Oklahoma A&M); INF Nolan Sponsler (Bradley Univ/Jefferson College); INF Aaron Collazo (College of Charleston/Western Texas); LHP Tyrell King (Paradise Valley CC).

KEY LOSSES: SS Joshua Fuentes (All-Conference, .365, 4 HR, 18 2B, 88 H); C Joseph Stropp (HM All-Conference).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Spartans posted a 47-14 overall record last season and return six position player starters and six quality pitchers including LHP Continued On Page 42

Collegiate Baseball

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Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Mental Skills Honed Like Razors Under Woody Hunt Continued From Page 11

players.”

Becoming Mentally Tough Hunt was asked if he utilizes any special program to make his players mentally tough. His teams are well known for delivering in the clutch.

“Our mentality is being focused on the next pitch whether you are on defense or offense. If you do that one simple thing, your chances of being successful increase dramatically.

Your concentration level will be there and execution more times than not.

“How often have you seen players get upset over a pitch or play which caused their focus to go south? You have to be mentally strong and get ready for the next pitch.

Hunt is so tuned in to the mental needs of his players that he has printed a 50-page book for each one that allows them to become mental razors over the course of a season.

Every year, he adds a page or two.

“We have a lot of team meetings that cover this important area of the game. We talk about motivation and having the right mind set to play.

This is our own unique system that we developed over the years.

“We give our players a vision and dream when they get here and talk in depth about this. For many years, this has been a big part of our program. We make them believe in dreams and try to make them do

more than they ever have.

“There are a lot of motivational tools that I have used to accomplish this. Every week we go over a specific concept from the book and discuss it fully. Sometimes we even do this more than once a week. We utilize quotes and scripture from the Bible as motivation also.

“We give them a belief system which helps them from a mental perspective.”

Hunt feels players must repsect the game of baseball. “ We u t i l i z e f i v e g u i d i n g principles that we have posted in our locker room that each player thinks about each day.

“These five guiding principles are on the first page of their motivational book as well.

“No. 1, they have to represent their family, the community, their teammates and our baseball program properly.

“No. 2, they must have a championship work ethic every day.

“No. 3, meet your responsibilities every day which includes going to class, practicing and everything else that is on the agenda.

“No. 4, make no excuses.

“No. 5, stride to be a good person. Stride means to work on it. The word stride means there is agony sometimes with that.”

NAIA Players To Watch Across USA Named For 2015 Continued From Page 40

Clay Wallace, Indiana Tech Clint Meadows, Cumberland (TN) Corey Session, Davenport Dustin Cook, Oklahoma City Evan Piechota, Madonna Gage Curry, Georgetown (KY) Gavin Culpepper, William Carey Harrison McGhee, Concordia-Portland Heath Durand, Georgia Gwinnett Hugo Lemus, Oklahoma Wesleyan Isaac Horigan, Northwestern College (IA) Jack Charleston, Faulkner Jake Doyle, Wayland Baptist Jimmy Skiff, Purdue-Calumet John Werner, St.Catharine (KY) Jose Cardona, Concordia-Irvine Jose Flores, Science & Arts of Oklahoma Jose Rendon, Sterling Josh DeGraaf, Taylor Josh O’Neill, William Penn Josh Ruiz, William Penn Juan Berumen, Oklahoma Wesleyan Julian Esquibel, Faulkner Kelvin Rivas, Oklahoma Baptist Kevin Schubert, Cumberlands (KY) Matt Young, Oklahoma City Michael McIntosh, Brescia Michael Royal, Georgia Gwinnett Michael Yarborough, Missouri Baptist Miguel Navarro, Peru State Orlando Quiroga, Houston-Victoria Patrick Kinney, Southeastern (FL) Roman Davalos, Georgetown (KY) Ryan Bower, Tennessee Wesleyan Sam Haynes, Oklahoma Wesleyan Santiago Romero, Mid America Nazarene Stephan Meyer, Bellevue (NE) Steve Sarcone, Bellevue (NE)

Tanner Dahl, Jamestown Tim Lamoureux, Talladega Travis Higgs, Brewton Parker Trent Hedlund, Mid America Nazarene Ty Galloway, The Master’s Ty Jackson, Lewis-Clark State Tyler Arthur, Georgetown (KY) Tyler Delzell, Bacone Tyler Mark, Concordia-Irvine Tyson Dietrich, Huntington Zac Smith, Dakota State RHP/LHP Ryan Perez, Judson

Relief Pitchers Marcus Crescentini, Missouri Baptist Bryant Westra, Dakota State CJ Gregory, Oklahoma Wesleyan Cody Pollack, Midland (NE) Craig Ramsey, Georgetown (KY) Gunnar Swanson, Lewis-Clark State Jake McCoy, St. Catharine (KY) Kenny Knudsen, Bryan Matt Olsaysky, Lourdes Patrick McGrady, Faulkner Stevie Smith, Cumberland (TN) Catchers Daniel Comstock, Menlo Maldiuno Gonzalez, Rio Grande Nate Esposito, Concordia-Portland Nick Studer, Doane (NE) Reed Lavallee, LSU Shreveport Robert Liera, Faulkner Ryan Wagner, Bacone Zach McRoberts, Cumberlands (KY) First Basemen Hector Corona, Talladega Alex Bush, Westmont Anthony Colosimo, Purdue-Calumet Bruce Yari, British Columbia

Daniel Orr, Corban Dylan Rogers, Oregon Tech Gaby De La Cruz, Wayland Baptist Justin Morhardt, Bryan Luke Strobl, Rochester Rowdy Dove, Mayville State Seth Brown, Lewis-Clark State Shea Beauchamp, Huntington Sklyer Wheeler, Northwestern College (IA) Tyler Abbott, Georgia Gwinnett

Second Basemen Alfredo Bohorquez, St. Catharine (KY) Chris Musick, Science & Arts of Oklahoma Chris Wegrzyn, Spring Arbor Dylan Blaha, Houston-Victoria Jean Marmol, Talladega Jeff Butler, Oklahoma Wesleyan Joshua Alonzo, Peru State Preston Fugita, Indiana Wesleyan Ricky DeArmas, Southeastern (FL) Ross Feeley, Bellevue (NE) Shell McCain, Tennessee Wesleyan Shortstops Cam Screeton, Indiana Wesleyan Clayton Brandt, Mid America Nazarene Enderson Velasquez, Embry-Riddle Hector Viera, Cumberland (TN) Kevin Arroyo, Rio Grande Michael Baca, Tabor Randy Santiesteban, Peru State Steven Mangilla, Georgetown (KY) Third Basemen Carlos Vargas, Mid America Nazarene Cody Hoffner, Southeastern (FL) Jake West, Taylor Larson Barkum, William Carey Mark De Young, Judson Romer Portes, Indiana Tech William Vazquez, William Penn

Outfielders JP Maracani, Spring Arbor Reagan Rutledge, Belhaven Andres Rivera, Doane (NE) Andy Kefalos, Lourdes Bobby Shiroky, Concordia-Irvine Chris Madera, Faulkner Danny Haze, Roosevelt Danny Moorehead, Taylor Deonte Lusk, Central Christian (KS) Dillon Coates, Clarke Dylan Steyer, Midland (NE) Ian Barker, Dakota State Jacob Lamoruex, Morningside Jake Dickerson, Mount Vernon Nazarene Jared Baker, Oklahoma City Jason Wilcoxson, Oklahoma Wesleyan JJ Pino, Cumberlands (KY) Joey Szczepanski, Oklahoma Baptist John Pistulka, Mayville State Jon Popadics, The Master’s Josh Alexander, Wayland Baptist Justin Byrd, Cumberland (TN) Langston Calhoun, Bryan Liam Goodall, Embry-Riddle Reggie Wilson, Oklahoma City Shane Dokey, Madonna Stetson McCollin, Southeastern (FL) Steven Pollex, Westmont Will Barring, Westmont Designated Hitters Landon Uetz, Jamestown Multi-Position Players Brendan Bendcer, Davenport Christian McHatton, Brescia Manny Deleon, Tabor Andrew Redman, Clarke Cameron Pongs, Lewis-Clark State Zane Howard, Central Christian (KS)

LSU Shreveport Returns Loads Of Experience In 2015 Continued From Page 41

David Mullins (8-1, 2.13 ERA, 58 K), RHP Brandon Zywicki (11-1, 3.05 ERA), RHP Michael Yarborough (10-1, 2.77 ERA). Another exceptional pitcher is RHP Marcus Crescentini, a transfer from the University of Tampa whose fastball was clocked at 95 mph last fall. One exceptional position player starter returning is All-American OF Orlando Olivera (.455, 11 HR, 19 2B, 64 RBI). “This will be the most talented team I have ever had at Missouri Baptist,” said Head Coach Eddie Uschold. “If we can stay healthy and focused, the sky is the limit. We have depth on the mound, depth in the lineup and have guys who can run and hit the ball out of the park. We are athletic defensively and have five pitchers who touch 90 mph in workouts.”

10. LSU SHREVEPORT

COACH: Al Cantwell (45-18 in first year with the Pilots) 2014 RECORD: 45-18 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional.

TOP RETURNEES: C Reed LaVallee (.319, 3 HR, 18 2B, 51 RBI, 7 SB); 1B Jared Vial (.289, 7 2B, 26 RBI, 4 SB); 2B Connor McMullin (.340, 2 HR, 13 2B, 33 RBI, 8 SB); 3B William Breland (.310, 3 2B, 29 RBI, 11 SB); SS Kym Barthel (.324, 1 HR, 2 2B, 18 RBI, 7 SB); OF Blair Landry (.328, 1 HR, 3 2B, 13 RBI, 22 SB); DH Brandon Bufton (.289, 7 2B, 26 RBI, 4 SB); RHP David Diaz (4-3, 3.20 ERA, 50.2 IP, 32 K, 17 BB); RHP Brandon Texiera (2-0, 3.45 ERA, 28.2 IP, 21 K, 13 BB, 1 SV); RHP Dustin Doucette (3-2, 3.77 ERA, 59.2 IP, 44 K, 19 BB); RP Brandon Russell (7 SV, 1-4, 2.82 ERA, 17 APP, 14 K, 12 BB); RP Cam Ellis (1 SV, 3-1, 4.38 ERA, 15 APP, 26 K, 13 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Jamal Martin (Miami Dade College); LHP Jared West (Univ of Houston); DH James Jean (Seminole State College); LHP Kevin Williams (Tyler JC); 3B Alex Montero (Cisco College).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Pilots posted a 45-18 overall record last season and participated in regional action. Seven position player starters are back along with 10 pitchers. “We added depth at all positions to an already talented lineup,” said Head Coach Al Cantwell. “The additions of Jared West (transfer Univ. of Houston) and Kevin Williams (transfer Tyler J.C., TX) added two front end 90-plus mph lefthanders that make the Pilots a contender. The batting lineup is much improved with added and speed and power throughout 1-9.

11. EMBRY-RIDDLE

12. BELLEVUE

COACH: Duane Monlux (156-70-3 with the Bruins; 388-237-5 overall) 2014 RECORD: 40-17-2 2014 FINISH: Runnerup at Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Aaron Brasher (.309, 12 2B, 19 RBI); OF/DH Levi Cartas (.290, 10 2B, 10 RBI, 2 SB); 2B Tyler Blood (.304, 4 2B, 19 RBI, 2 SB); RHP Steve Sarcone (7-3, 1.79 ERA, 65.1 IP, 61 K, 23 BB, 4 SV); RHP Stephan Meyer (0-0, 4.76 ERA, 17 IP, 14 K, 9 BB); RHP Leland Tilley (1-2, 2.40 ERA, 15 IP, 13 K, 7 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: C Osvaldo Gonzalez (Appalachian State); 2B Ross Feeley (College of the Sequoias); RHP Jacob Cabral (Hartnell College); LHP Andrew Ferguson (Barton CC); OF Colton Nash (Pierce College); RHP John Timmins (Western Nebraska CC); 3B Connor Garrison (Victor Valley College).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Bruins finished with a 40-17-2 record last season and were runnerup in the Shawnee Regional. Three position player starters are back along with three solid pitchers. Bellevue also landed a recruiting class of 28 players which features a number of quality athletes including 2B Ross Feeley (transfer from College of Sequoias, CA who hit .363 last season and was a Gold Glove defensive player). “We have a ton of new guys,” said Head Coach Duane Monlux. “We brought in over 20 new players because we were hit really hard by graduation following the 2014 season. With that being said, we have made big upgrades defensively. We have decent speed, and our pitching is a question mark compared to last year’s team.”

13. SOUTHEASTERN

COACH: Jason Beck (422-220-1 in 10 years with the Fire; 555-342-1 overall) 2014 RECORD: 46-16 2014 FINISH: Runnerup in Regional.

TOP RETURNEES: 2B Ricky DeArmas (.392, 10 2B, 20 RBI, 4 SB); SS Luis Diaz (.378, 15 2B, 29 RBI, 12 SB); 3B Stetson McCollin (.315, 7 2B, 23 RBI, 30 SB); C Aldo Ferrante (.291, 4 HR, 9 2B, 45 RBI, 4 SB); OF TJ Glessner (.314, 3 2B, 25 RBI, 24 SB); OF Aaron Sheaks (.293, 2 2B, 24 RBI, 6 SB); DH Corbin Weeks (.293, 4 HR, 10 2B, 26 RBI, 3 SB); RHP Patrick Kinney (7-0, 3.08 ERA, 90.2 IP, 75 K, 44 BB); RHP Andres Cancio (11-1, 1.89 ERA, 90.1 IP, 77 K, 25 BB); RHP Nick Beavers (4-4, 3.74 ERA, 74.2 IP, 46 K, 22 BB); RP Mike Ruppenthal (7-3, 5.10 ERA, 20 APP, 41 K, 25 BB); RP Dylan Jameson (1-0, 6.26 ERA, 21 APP, 20 K, 9 BB).

COACH: Randy Stegall (319-116 in 7 years with the Eagles; 363-145 overall)

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Josiel Colon (Pitt CC); INF Cody Hoffner (Florida Gulf Coast Univ); P/INF Willi Martin (Mount Olive).

2014 RECORD: 40-21

2015 OUTLOOK: The Fire posted a 46-16 overall record and finished second in regional competition. Seven position player starters are back along with five superb pitchers headed by RHP Patrick Kinney (7-0, 3.08 ERA) and RHP Andres Cancio (11-1, 1.89 ERA, 77 K). Other quality players to watch include 3B Cody Hoffner (transfer from Florida Gulf Coast), 2B Ricky DeArmas (.392, 10 2B, 20 RBI) and OF Stetson McCollin (.315, 7 2B, 23 RBI, 30 SB). “Offensively, we will be much better than last year (scored 415 runs in 62 games),” said Head Coach Jason Beck. Pitching returns intact and a year better.”

2014 FINISH: Runnerup in Regional TOP RETURNEES: OF Liam Goodall (.319, 10 2B, 6 3B, 32 RBI, 14 SB); UT Jake Cavender (.282, 1 HR, 6 2B, 18 RBI, 11 SB); RHP Corey Tufts (8-4, 2.42 ERA, 89.1 IP, 81 K, 32 BB, 1 SV); LHP Stetson Nelson (9-4, 2.21 ERA, 102 IP, 71 K, 16 BB); LHP Clayton Wagner (3-2, 3.47 ERA, 62.1 IP, 57 K, 24 BB, 1 SV).

TOP NEWCOMERS: RHP Zac Grotz (Univ of Tennessee); RHP Kenny Burkhead (Florida State); RHP Arturo Martoral (did not play); OF Jonathan Camp (Santa Fe College); UT Josh Garcia (St. John’s River College); SS Endersan Velasquez (College of Central Florida); UT Kyle Zirbes (Canada College).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Eagles posted a 40-21 record last season and were a regional runnerup. Four position player starters are back along with five key pitchers including RHP Corey Tufts (8-4, 2.42 ERA) and LHP Stetson Nelson (9-4, 2.21 ERA). One player who has been superb in the fall was RHP Arturo Martoral. “On paper, we could have a great year,” said Head Coach Randy Stegall. “We have a solid lineup 1-9 with good depth. We are lacking one arm, but we have the potential to be a very good pitching staff.”

14. BELHAVEN

COACH: Hill Denson (469-311 in 15 years with the Blazers; 937-694 overall) 2014 RECORD: 42-21 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: OF Reagan Rutledge (.278, 8 2B, 5 3B, 30 RBI, 64 SB); 2B Paul Pickerrell (.345, 15 2B, 4 3B, 44 RBI, 38 SB); UT Emilio DeSilva (.318, 3 2B, 2 3B, 28 RBI, 35 SB); INF Gabe Wilson (.261 6 2B, 32 RBI, 5 SB); C Hunter Sutton (.222, 11 2B, 2 3B, 29 RBI); OF James Peterson

(.217, 2 2B, 1 3B, 13 RBI, 7 SB); LHP Chris Good (4-2, 4.07 ERA, 77.1 IP, 27 K, 16 BB); RHP Ben Allison (6-0, 2.29 ERA, 51 IP, 21 K, 14 BB); RHP Will Cockrell (0-2, 6.45 ERA, 22.1 IP, 12 K, 16 BB); RP Jim Tom Copeland (2-0, 1.74 ERA, 11 APP, 8 K, 6 BB); RP Richard Richardson (3.21 ERA, 16 APP, 8 K, 11 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: 1B Adam Kowalczyk (Delaware Technical CC); RHP Chase Davidson (Troy Univ); OF Joey Harris (Southern Mississippi); C Devin McCann (Cumberland County CC).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Blazers posted a 42-21 overall record and participated in regional action. Six position player starters are back along with three quality pitchers. Players to watch include OF Reagan Rutledge (.278, 8 2B, 5 3B, 30 RBI, 64 SB), 2B Paul Pickerrell (.345, 15 2B, 4 3B, 44 RBI, 38 SB), and RHP Ben Allison (6-0, 2.29 ERA). “We have a high number of returners and key transfers who swung the bats well last fall,” said Head Coach Hill Denson. “We should have plenty of pitching depth and be solid defensively.”

14. DOANE

COACH: Jeremy Jorgensen (217-146 in 7 years with the Tigers) 2014 RECORD: 42-11 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Nick Studer (.396, 1 HR, 15 2B, 53 RBI, 1 SB); DH Liam Bedford (.337, 1 HR, 9 2B, 24 RBI, 1 SB); 1B Dylan Matthews (.352, 10 2B, 31 RBI, 4 SB); 2B Jed Derr (.256, 3 2B, 13 RBI, 3 SB); SS Jake Smith (.241, 4 2B, 13 RBI, 3 SB); OF Kevin Clausen (.337, 3 HR, 13 2B, 35 RBI, 6 SB); OF Andres Rivera (.251, 10 2B, 25 RBI, 19 SB); LHP Brandon Stennis (8-2, 1.79 ERA, 70.1 IP, 72 K, 20 BB); RHP Austin Caspersen (8-2, 2.78 ERA, 74.1 IP, 55 K, 13 BB); RP Josh Hayden (2-0, 1.29 ERA, 8 APP, 15 K, 7 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: SS Tommy Anderson (Oak Hills HS, CA); RHP Caleb Goedeken (Thayer Central HS, NE); RHP Andrew Hodges (Valencia HS, CA); RHP Tyler McKee (San Diego Mesa CC); LHP Spencer Pugh (Saint Charles CC); 3B Adam Touhey (Univ of Hartford).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Tigers posted a 42-11 record last season and participated in regional action. Six position player starters are back along with three key pitchers, including LHP Brandon Stennis (8-2, 1.79 ERA, 72 K, 20 BB) and RHP Austin Caspersen (8-2, 2.78 ERA, 55 K, 13 BB). “After graduating eight seniors from last year’s team, the success for the future will be determined on how quickly new players fill the rolls left open,” said Head Coach Jeremy Jorgensen.

16. OKLAHOMA CITY

COACH: Denney Crabaugh (1,268-398-2 in 26 years with the Stars) 2014 RECORD: 35-19 2014 FINISH: Participated in Regional TOP RETURNEES: C Connor Lynch (.388, 12 HR, 18 2B, 45 RBI, AllAmerican), OF Jared Baker (.344, 2 HR, 15 2B, 26 RBI); 3B Ryan Wright (.333, 4 HR, 7 2B, 27 RBI); RP Josh Halbert (3 SV, 0-0, 2.57 ERA, 7 APP, 5K); RP Holden Lyons (2-0, 5.17 ERA, 14 APP, 15 K, 12 BB).

TOP NEWCOMERS: OF Reggie Wilson (Howard JC); INF JJ Bissell (Northeast Colorado JC); OF Joe Haddox (Wichita State); OF/C Dylan Delso (Texas Christian); P Dustin Cook (San Jacinto JC); P Matt Young (Rio Hondo JC); P Grant Hamilton (Butler County JC).

2015 OUTLOOK: The Stars were 35-19 last season and participated in regional action. Three position player starters are back and two pitchers.

Key players to watch include All-American C Connor Lynch (.388, 12 HR, 18 2B, 45 RBI), OF Jared Baker (.344, 15 2B, 26 RBI), OF Reggie Wilson (transfer from Howard J.C.), RHP Dustin Cook (San Jacinto J.C. transfer) and RHP Matt Young (transfer from Rio Hondo J.C., CA). “We have lots of new faces especially on the pitching staff,” said Head Coach Denney Crabaugh. “Our offense will be better than the past couple of years. The biggest question is the pitching staff because of the newness. Our talent, work ethic, attitude and leadership are better than the last few years.”

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Collegiate Baseball

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Collegiate Baseball

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Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Top Junior College Players Featured Across USA Danny Sullivan, Catawba Valley (NC) David Hollins, St. Petersburg (FL) Garrett Mays, Crowder (MO) Ivan Sanchez, Hartnell (CA) Jason Roberts, Southwestern (IA) Nik Gifford, Northern Oklahoma-Enid Pat Dorrian, Herkimer County (NY) Raphael Gladu, Galveston (TX) Riley Delgado, Columbia State (TN)

Right-Handed Pitchers Phil Bickford, Southern Nevada Grayson Jones, Shelton State (AL) Kevin Ginkel, Southwestern (CA) Gabriel Klobosits, Galveston (TX) Colyn O’Connell, Miami-Dade (FL) Jacob Taylor, Pearl River (MS) Dean Kremer, San Joaquin Delta (CA) Justin Vernia, Tacoma (WA) Tyler Carvalho, Mesa (AZ) Alex Debell, Lamar (CO) Alex Fagalde, Cuesta (CA) Andy Petersen, St. Cloud Tech (MN) Austin Shepherd, Kalamazoo Valley (MI) Austin Stroschein, Johnson County (KS) Ben Hecht, Lincoln Land (IL) Ben Ritchey, Sacramento City (CA) Blake Cairnes, Georgia Perimeter Blake Redman, Oxnard (CA) Brad Labozzetta, Polk State (FL) Brady Moore, Ohlone (CA) Braden Nunn, Sacramento City (CA) Brandon Humbertson, Montgomery (MD) Cain Spangler, Palm Beach State (FL) Cameron Ragsdale, Gulf Coast State (FL) Casey Sutton, Hinds (MS) Cheyne Bickel, Palm Beach State (FL) Chris Kovach, Oxnard (CA) Chris McCormick, Pasco-Hernando State (FL) Cody Brown, Tyler (TX) Connor Brogdon, Fresno City (CA) Connor Buenger, Southwestern Illinois Connor Cool, Hagerstown (MD) Damon Proctor, Muskegon (MI) Dan Guido, Oakton (IL) Danny Rodriguez, Pasco-Hernando State (FL) Elias Bedolla, Ohlone (CA) Ethan Clark, Crowder (MO) Evan Fresquez, Mesa (AZ) Evanne Wilkes, Santa Ana (CA)

SOUTHERN NEVADA RHP PHIL BICKFORD

…97 MPH fastball, former 10th pick overall in 2013 Draft Frank Valentino, Suffolk County (NY) Gabe Gonzalez, Southern Nevada Gene Cachu, Sequoias (CA) Grant Wilhelm, Santa Ana (CA) Jacob Shortslef, Herkimer County (NY) Jacob Worrell, Saddleback (CA) Jared Vanderbor, Kalamazoo Valley (MI) Jextin Pugh, Iowa Western Jim Solano, Mercyhurst North East (PA) Joey Zurawik, Eastern Oklahoma State Jordan Doyle, St. Petersburg (FL) Jorge Alvarado, Fresno City (CA) Justin Bruce, Santa Barbara (CA) Justin Curry, Heartland (IL) Justin Norton, Catawba Valley (NC) Justin Smith, Cumberland County (NJ) Keone Cabinian, San Mateo (CA) Kyle Lawson, Muskegon (MI) Landon Faulkner, Chattahoochee Valley (AL) Maiker Mora, Polk State (FL) Marty Luckenbach, Bellevue (WA) Matt Foster, Gulf Coast State (FL) Matt McHugh, Johnson County (KS) Matt Pallazzo, Cabrillo (CA) McKay McNair, Reedley (CA) Michael Peterson, Riverside (CA) Mitch McIntyre, Iowa Western Nathan Kuchta, Cypress (CA) Nick Economus, Mercer County (NJ) Noel Rodriguez, Paradise Valley (AZ) O’Keeffe Hall, Feather River (CA) Peter Strzelecki, Palm Beach State (FL) Randy Bell, Hinds (MS) Ryan Larison, Galveston (TX) Ryan McAuliffe, Northern Essex (MA) Sam Hellinger, San Mateo (CA) Scooter Hightower, Columbia State (TN) Scott Romuk, Cuesta (CA) Scott Segerstad, Orange Coast (CA) Shane Gonzales, Palomar (CA) Shane Quarterley, Lane (OR) Skylar Haynes, Feather River (CA) Tanner Lupton, Treasure Valley (OR) Tanner Olson, Lower Columbia (WA) Taylor Cockrell, State College of Florida Trevor Charpie, Saddleback (CA) Trevor Guthrie, Chattahoochee Valley (AL) Troy Lamparello, Palomar (CA) Tyler Keegan, Brookhaven (TX) Tyler Rowe, Riverside (CA)

Tyler Tungate, Riverside (CA) West Covington, Gulf Coast State (FL) Westin Wuethrich, Madison (WI) Zach Smart, Sacramento City (CA) Zander Clouse, Bellevue (WA) Joe Balfour, Mount Hood (OR) Aaron Clift, Mount Hood (OR) C.J. Lewington, Southeastern Illinois (IL) Wes McGuire, Southeastern Illinois (IL) Rob Crabtree, Southeastern Illinois (IL) Chris Gehrsitz, Ocean County (IL) Relief Pitchers Blake Edmonson, Sequoias (CA) AJ Franks, Santa Ana (CA) Austin Sanders, Hinds (MS) Kit Larson, Santa Barbara (CA) Cameron Trichka, Cuesta (CA) Derek Hurt, Johnson County (KS) Dominic Purpura, Orange Coast (CA) Jacob Gomez, Sierra (CA) Joel Taylor, Illinois Central Jon Lipinski, Palm Beach State (FL) Luis Magana, Oxnard (CA) Matt Miller, Heartland (IL) Maxx Clark, Reedley (Ca) Zach Sparks, Southwestern Illinois Catchers Dillon Kelley, Sequoias (CA) Dave Osnato, Mercer County (NJ) Joey Johnson, Garrett (MD) John Boland, Herkimer County (NY) Alan Crowley, Reedley (CA) C/1B Blake Rogers, Iowa Lakes Collin Theroux, San Joaquin Delta (CA) Daniel Barnett, Oxnard (CA) Daniel Garner, Shelton State (AL) Francis Christy, Palomar (CA) C/3B JD Osborne, Polk State (FL) Jordany Salva, Broward (FL) Kolin Kubitz, St. Cloud Tech (MN) Kreg Garner, Pearl River (MS) Sabatino Dinardo, Mercyhurst North East (PA) Tyler Stevens, Kalamazoo Valley (MI) Wesley Aschenbrenner, S.C. Salkehatchie (SC) First Basemen Derek Bangert, Heartland (IL) Anthony Miller, Johnson County (KS) Bryce Adams, Delgado (LA) Jimmy Brakka, Santa Barbara (CA) Kyle Raubinger, Cuesta (CA) Marshall Boggs, Hinds (MS) Matt Brown, Jefferson (MO) Tommy Lane, Mount Hood (OR) Second Basemen Antonio Pino, Montgomery (MD) Blaine Prescott, Midland (TX) Trent Turner, Northeast Mississippi Aderly Perez, Pasco-Hernando State (FL) Alex Mascarenas, Santa Ana (CA) Angel Sanchez, Cabrillo (CA) Buddy Webb, Lane (OR) Byron Brooks, Brookhaven (TX) Cole Freeman, Delgado (LA) Derrick Mount, Pearl River (MS) Jack Flansburg, Cypress (CA) Jordan Zimmerman, Mesa (AZ) 2B/OF Josh Rojas, Paradise Valley (AZ) Lane Lacrone, Treasure Valley (OR) Luke Bunting, Muskegon (MI) Luke Stratman, Lamar (CO) Matt Jones, Hinds (MS) Sam Hurt, Madison (WI) Troy Baird, Santa Ana (CA) Tyler Brown, Southern Nevada Tyler Mixon, Cumberland County (NJ)

RHP JACOB TAYLOR

…Pearl River J.C. (MS) pitcher throws 97 mph

Third Basemen Justin Clarkson, Midland (TX) Lance Myers, Vincennes (IN) Adrian Anderson, Muskegon (MI) Chase Lunceford, Hinds (MS) Christian Williams, Gulf Coast St. (FL)

Shortstops Ellis Kelly, Lamar (CO) Mason McCoy, Illinois Central Tyler Phillips, Herkimer County (NY) Bret Sundberg, Sierra (CA) Brian Colon, Miami Dade (FL) Conor Archer, Garrett (MD) Daulton Blackwell, Treasure Valley (OR) Dustyn Cook, Oxnard (CA) Gabriel Montero, Southeastern (IA) Ian Dawkins, Chabot (CA) Ivan Acuna, Catawba Valley (NC) Jackson Willeford, Cypress (CA) Junior Rios, Brookhaven (TX) Louis Boyd, Cochise (AZ) Matt Valdez, Cabrillo (CA) Michael Forgione, Lower Columbia (WA) Miles Mastrobuoni, San Mateo (CA) Mirangelo Muller, Riverland (MN) Nathan Reynolds, Feather River (CA) Nick Young, Northern Oklahoma-Enid Samuel Vega, Southwestern (IA) Sean Murley, Southwestern Illinois Seaver Whalen, Lower Columbia (WA) Tracy Hadley, Pearl River (MS) Tyler Albright, Oakton (IL) Joel Qjuinones, Southeastern Illinois Outfielders Alex Galgano, Bellevue (WA) Davis Szanto, Brookhaven (TX) D o m T h o m p s o n - Wi l l i a m s , I o w a Western Eli Putnam, Feather River (CA) Jackson Duda, Hartnell (CA) Jay Feliciano, Southeastern (IA) Phil Pietro, Hagerstown (MD) Tommy Bell, Orange Coast (CA) Tyler Coleman Montgomery (MD) Tyler Lynn, Chattahoochee Valley (AL) Will Schneider, Lincoln Land (IL) Adam Bauer, Southwestern Illinois Alex Krupa, Iowa Western Alex Murphy, Florence-Darlington Tech Brandon Edwards, Suffolk County (NY) Brandon Evans, Santa Barbara (CA) Brock Pradere, Ohlone (CA) Chris Thibideau, Midland (TX) Dan Hetzel, Cochise (AZ) Dan Holst, Southwestern Illinois Daniel Gardner, Fresno City (CA) Darin Nelson, Lane (OR) Donte Richie, Milwaukee Area (WI) Drew Korosic, Oakton (IL) Duke Stunkel, St. Petersburg (FL) Eric Downey, Herkimer County (NY) Forrest Garcia, Lane (OR) Garrison Cole, Riverside (CA) Harrison Smoske, N. Essex (MA) Hector Quinones, Southeastern (IA) Isaiah Terry, Tacoma (WA) JT Ross, Mohawk (NY) Jarrett Maas, Oxnard (CA) Josh Paparone, Oakton (IL) Josh Roman, Ohlone (CA) Jovan Ewusie, Douglas (Canada) Kevin Williams, Miami Dade (FL) Kris Bartlett, San Joaquin Delta (CA) LaDonis Bryant, Georgia Perimeter London Lindley, Georgia Perimeter Luke Westerberg, Florence-Darlington Tech Marcus Spears, SC Salkehatchie (SC) Nate Navarrete, Fresno City (CA) Nestor Linares, Santa Ana (CA) Nick Morelli, Oxnard (CA) Nick Rutckytj, Cuesta (CA) Reggie Wright, Eastern Oklahoma State Riley Landuyt, Johnson County (KS) Sam Finfer, Bellevue (WA) Satchel Goodwin, Reedley (CA) Stephen Stuart, Blinn (TX) Todd Isaacs, Palm Beach State (FL) Trevor Davis, Gulf Coast State (FL) Trey Amburgey, St. Petersburg (FL) Tristan Clarke, Eastern Oklahoma State Tyler Fichter, Broward (FL) Woody Edwards, Gulf Coast State (FL) Zane Otten, Tyler (TX) OF/C Isaac Benard, Mount Hood (OR) Jordan Reizer, Ocean County (NJ) Joe Karagiannakis, Ocean County (NJ) Designated Hitters Austin Voeller, ASA College (FL) Dan James, Saddleback (CA) Rayden Ogando, Broward (FL) Multi-Position Players Brett Barker, Saddleback (CA) Joe Zanghi, Cumberland County (NJ) Brandon Gibis, Madison (WI) Brandon Langan, Sacramento (CA) Brett Nielsen, Tacoma (WA) Brick Paskiewicz, Paradise Valley (AZ) Darick Hall, Cochise (AZ) Joe Galindo, New Mexico Military Inst.

Lance Berringer, San Joaquin Delta (CA) Matt Lahn, Erie (NY) Mike Diamond, Paradise Valley (AZ) Ryan Slaghter, Kalamazoo Valley (MI) Turner Doornick, St. Cloud Tech (MN)

California JC All-Americans

MERCED, Calif. — The California Community College Baseball Coaches Association announced their selection for 2015 Pre-Season All-Americans.

Northern California Pre-Season All-Americans Pitchers Ben Richey, Sacramento City Skyler Haynes, Feather River Matt Palazzo, Cabrillo Kevin Bevilacqua, Siskiyous Jorge Alvarado, Fresno City Relief Pitchers Blake Edmonson, Sequoias Eddy Puga, Cabrillo Wyatt D’Alessio, Sierra Catchers Dillon Kelley, Sequoias Collin Theroux, Delta First Basemen Nick Carney, Butte Utility Ryan Cumberland, Merced Infielders Billy Mullins, West Valley Ian Dawkins, Chabot Anthony Taliaferro, Diablo Valley Mike Sanderson, Feather River Nathan Reynolds, Feather River Matthew Valdez, Cabrillo Timmion Hughes, Contra Costa Chris Miguel, Canada Outfielders Eli Putnam, Feather River

Photo by Colin Grylls

Left-Handed Pitchers Mac Marshall, Chipola (FL) Justin Hill, Southeastern (IA) Patrick Merryweather, Herkimer County (NY) Aaron Richmond, Sierra (CA) Art Vidrio, Orange Coast (CA) Brooks Vial, Delgado (LA) Bryce Hensley, Catawba Valley (NC) Cameron Avilla Leeper, San Joaquin Delta (CA) Chase Johnson-Mullins, Shelton State (AL) Cody Puckett, Columbia State (TN) Cory Duggan, Douglas (Canada) David Parkinson, Florence-Darlington Tech Devin Vainer, Georgia Perimeter Doug Still, Jefferson (MO) Jake Barnett, Palomar (CA) Jaramy Jacobs, Ohlone (CA) Jesse Whitmeyer, Mohawk (NY) John Hemenes, Chabot (CA) Jonathan Hennigan, Galveston (TX) Kevin Ulrich, Illinois Central Marcellus Sneed, Madison (WI) Matt Gall, Mercer County (NJ) Oscar Sandoval, Oxnard (CA) Paul Murphy, Milwaukee Area Tech (WI) Ryan Mose, Iowa Lakes Seth Ballew, Blinn (TX) Tucker Davidson, Midland (TX) Walker Williams, Lamar (CO)

Photo by Matt Brown

TUCSON, Ariz. — The following is the 2015 Junior College Players to Watch list from across the nation.

The list contains players who were recommended by junior college coaches and compiled by Collegiate Baseball.

RHP KEVIN GINKEL Southwestern College Satchel Goodwin, Reedley Joseph Salmeri, Merced Hadon Mahe-Liessmann, Yuba Latrell Harris, Butte Jackson Duda, Hartnell Ansel Cecil, Redwood Southern California Pre-Season All-Americans Right-Handed Pitchers Kevin Ginkel, Southwestern Tyler Rowe, Riverside Nick Przybylek, San Bernardino Valley Blake Redmond, Oxnard Kit Larson, Santa Barbara Justin Bruce, Santa Barbara AJ Franks, Santa Ana Left-Handed Pitchers Austin Sodders, Riverside JC Cloney, Canyons Art Vidrio, Orange Coast Jake Barnett, Palomar Catchers Clayton Hubbard, LA Mission Francis Christy, Palomar Garrett Dean, Riverside (C-OF) First Basemen Aaron Cisneros, San Bernardino Valley Infielders Nick Walyniec, Glendale Dylan Diaz, Saddleback Jack Flansburg, Cypress Outfielders CJ Witkowski, LA Mission Tommy Bell, Orange Coast Brett Barker, Saddleback Utility Dustyn Cook, LA Mission

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Page 45

NJCAA Div. I: Iowa Western Team To Beat Once Again TUCSON, Ariz. — Defending NJCAA Division I national champion Iowa Western is the pre-season favorite to capture the title once again, according to the NJCAA Coaches Association.

The following a rundown on each of the top 10 ranked teams.

1. Iowa Western The Reivers have won three national championships over the last five seasons under Head Coach Marc Rardin.

In the 57-year-history of the NJCAA World Series, Iowa Western is the only Iowa junior college ever to win this prestigious event and the first Northern District representative to win it all.

In 12 seasons at Iowa Western, Rardin has led the Reivers to eight NJCAA World Series, won 10 consecutive regional titles and eight Northern District championships.

Look for Iowa Western to contend for the title once again.

Four position player starters and five quality pitchers return from a team that posted a 56-11 record last season.

Factor in a superb recruiting class of 21 newcomers, and Iowa Western is once again the team to beat.

“We are athletic but young,” said Rardin.

Two key players that return include OF Dom Thompson-Williams (.412 with 5 HR, 46 RBI, 21/26 SB) and OF Alex Krupa (.429, 3 HR, 37 RBI, 38/40 SB).

Other quality returners include 1B Jake Scudder (.352, 2 HR, 41 RBI, 5 SB), SS Ryan Merrill (.367, 2 HR, 32 RBI, 14 SB), 3B Logan Kiefer (.324, 5 RBI), OF Josh Newell (.265, 0 HR, 8 RBI), RHP Brayden Young (5-3, 4.43 ERA, 46 K, 12 BB, 4 SV), RHP Chris Halbur (30, 1.74 ERA), RHP Kaj Timmermans (2-0, 5.26 ERA) and RHP Sam Donko (1-0, 3.60 ERA).

Key newcomers to watch are OF Jordan Getzelman (transfer from U. of Missouri), INF Bryce Only (transfer from U. of Nebraska), RHP Michael Klein (transfer from U. of Nebraska), RHP Jextin Pugh (transfer from Binghamton) and RHP Mitch McIntyre (transfer from Wichita St.).

2. Southern Nevada Without question, the Coyotes landed the best class of junior college newcomers in the USA last fall.

Topping the list is RHP Phil Bickford, a transfer from Cal. St. Fullerton who was the 10th overall pick in the 2013 draft by Toronto.

His fastball has hit 98 mph, and he wanted to be draft eligible after the 2015 season. So he bolted from Cal. St. Fullerton to attend junior college.

Another amazing newcomer is RHP Gabe Gonzalez from Arbor View H.S. (Las Vegas, NV), a 13th round pick by the Texas Rangers last June.

Then you have RHP Kayden Porter, a transfer from the University of North Carolina who was a previous Louisville Slugger All-American at Spanish Fork High School (Spanish Fork, Utah) where he put up amazing numbers.

Also new to the program is RHP A.J. Jones from Thunder Ridge, Colo. who is fighting for the third spot in the starting rotation with Porter.

The starting rotation is simply the best in all of junior college baseball.

Add to that newcomer OF Kenny Meimerstorf, a transfer from the University of Arizona, who was the Gatorade Player of The Year in Nevada at Bishop Gorman H.S. (Las Vegas, NV) during the 2013 season as he hit .427 with 15 HR, 54 runs scored, 46 RBI and a .893 slugging percentage.

He played on three state championship teams and hit more than 40 HRs in his prep career and was a Louisville Slugger All-American.

As far as returners, Southern Nevada has four position player starters back and three quality pitchers. One returner to watch is 2B Tyler Brown (.349, 12 2B, 31 RBI, 31 SB).

3. Miami-Dade (FL) The Sharks finished second at the NJCAA Division I World Series last year and posted a 38-17 overall record.

Three position player starters are back and four quality pitchers.

A superb recruiting class of 19 newcomers is what will make Miami-Dade a power once again in 2015.

One superb addition to the program is RHP Colyn O’Connell (transfer from Polk St.). He was a 19th round pick in the 2012 draft.

Another is CF Kevin Williams from American H.S. Key returners include Bryan Colon (.355, 3 HR, 5 2B, 29 RBI), LF Deivy Palmeriro (.299, 5 2B, 18 RBI) and 1B David Palenzuela (.329, 10 2B, 38 RBI).

4. Midland (TX) The Chaparrals finished third at the JUCO World Series last season and posted a 42-25 overall record.

Eight position player starters are back along with two quality pitchers.

Midland also landed an exceptional recruiting class of 20 new players.

Head Coach David Coleman feels the offense will feature veteran hitters with good team speed.

Key players to watch include: 2B Blaine Prescott (.371, 8 HR, 13 2B, 49 RBI, 27 SB), 3B Justin Clarkson (.364, 5 HR, 17 2B, 50 RBI), OF Chris Thibideau (.323, 14 HR, 11 2B, 49 RBI) and LHP Tucker Davidson (freshman pitcher from Amarillo, Tex.).

5. Blinn (TX) The Buccaneers posted a 36-26 record last season and finished fifth at the JUCO World Series.

Five position player starters are back and three quality pitchers. Blinn also landed an exceptional recruiting class of 13 newcomers.

“Sophomore heavy position player transfers will add talent and depth,” said Head Coach Harvey McIntyre.

Key returners include OF Stephen Stuart (.320, 2 HR, 9 2B, 23 RBI, 16 SB), LHP Seth Ballew (7-3, 4.80 ERA, 53 K), LHP Christian Thames (5-2, 3.70 ERA, 36 K) and RHP Shane McCarley (7-7, 4.07 ERA, 35 K).

Four key newcomers include RHP Kirby Peek (transfer from Univ. of Houston), RHP Dakota Mills (transfer from West Virginia), C Robie Rojas (transfer from Oklahoma St.), 1B Ben Upton (transfer from Tennessee Tech.), and LHP Kaylor Chafin (transfer from Texas &M).

6. Chattahoochee Valley (AL) The Pirates finished sixth at the JUCO World Series last season and rolled to a 48-11 overall record.

Five position player starters are back and one key pitcher in RHP Trevor Guthrie (1-0, 2 SV, 2.08 ERA in 12 appearances.

An exceptional hitter returns in RF Tyler Lynn (.363, 2 HR, 11 2B, 32 RBI, 29 SB). He is an exceptional lefthanded hitter with speed.

Other returners include 1B Grayson Ivey (.324, 2 HR, 8 2B, 30 RBI), SS Kendall Ford (.333, 4 2B, 14 RBI, 17 SB), LF Drew Lingo (.375, 4 2B, 11 RBI, 5 SB), and C Jake Maziar (.325, 3 HR, 4 2B, 25 RBI).

Among 17 superb newcomers is RHP Landon Faulkner from Mt. Paran H.S. (Atlanta, Ga.). He is pushing to be the top starting pitcher in the rotation.

“Talent wise, we are as good as our 2014 World Series team,” said Head Coach Adam Thomas.

“We have more team speed and are deeper on the mound. Chemistry and development of the freshmen will be the key.”

7. Columbia St. (TN) The Chargers finished sixth at the JUCO World Series last season and rolled to a 46-13 overall record.

Four position player starters return along with five key pitchers.

“We have two pitchers returning along with three of four infield starters,” said Head Coach Mike Corn.

“We have a new group in the outfield, and we should compete again for the Region VII title.”

Region Pitcher of The Year RHP Scooter Hightower returns.

He was 10-1 last season with a 2.42 ERA with 86 strikeouts and 20 walks as a freshman.

Other key returners include LHP Cody Puckett (6-0, 3.14 ERA, 61 K, 40 BB), 3B Riley Delgado (.343, 8 2B, 43 RBI), 1B Paul Kirby (.339, 14 2B, 28 RBI), SS Hayden Holt (.329, 2 2B, 7 RBI) and DH Isaiah Aluko (.287, 5 HR, 6 2B, 26 RBI).

Columbia St. also landed a quality recruiting class of 20 players.

8. Cochise (AZ) The Apaches finished eighth at the 2014 JUCO World Series and posted a 38-29 overall record.

Four returning position player starters are back, including SS Louis Boyd, 1B Nick Burowski, 3B Sean De Soto along with LHP/DH Darick Hall and RHP Kade Wagner.

“We should be athletic, smart and will defend,” said Head Coach Todd Inglehart.

Cochise landed an exceptional recruiting class that features 2B Adam De La Cruz (Bronx, N.Y.), OF Dan Hetzel (transfer Rhode Island), P/DH Charles Ameer (transfer St. Johns Univ.), OF Nate Stepna (Las Vegas, NV), OF Jackson Overlund (Ada, MI), C Christian Hill (Caldwell, ID), and P Colton Wood (British Columbia, Victoria, Canadian National Team).

9. Delgado (LA) The Dolphins finished tied for seventh at the 2014 JUCO World Series and posted a 43-13 overall record.

Six position player starters are back along with three key pitchers.

Delgado also landed a superb recruiting class of 24 players.

Four returning players to watch include 1B Bryce Adams, 2B Cole Freeman, SS Troy Lewis and LHP Brooks Vial.

Tw o o u t s t a n d i n g t r a n s f e r s a r e P Andrew Mitchell (LSU) and C Kyle Bracey (Southeastern).

10. Johnson County (KS) The Cavaliers posted a superb 50-14 record last season under Hall of Fame Coach Kent Shelley as Johnson County finished tied for the seventh at the JUCO World Series.

Eight position player starters are back along with four quality pitchers.

In addition, a superb recruiting class of 17 players has infused talent and depth.

“Experience will definitely be a strength for the 2015 Cavaliers as we return eight starters and 19 sophomores,” said Shelley.

“The addition of transfers have certainly added talent and depth to our squad. The team will rely on its speed, pitching and solid defense.”

One player to watch is OF Riley Landuyt who was the Cavalier’s top hitters last season (.345). He is a tremendous defensive outfielder, has plus speed and has an accurate throwing arm.

Other quality players include 1B Anthony Miller (.322, 13 HR, 18 2B, 63 RBI), RHP Derek Hurt (5 SV, 6-2, 2.16 ERA, 54 K, 14 BB), RHP Matt McHugh (transfer from Purdue), RHP Austin Stroschein (transfer from Des Moines Area C.C.), and reliever Derek Hurt (5 SV, 6-2, 2.16 ERA).

2015 NJCAA D-1 Pre-Season Poll

Rank Team 1. Iowa Western (IA) 2. Southern Nevada 3. Miami Dade (FL) 4. Midland (TX) 5. Blinn (TX) 6. Chattahoochee (AL) 7. Columbia St. (TN) 8. Cochise (AZ) 9. Delgado (LA) 10. Johnson County (KS) Spartanburg Meth. (SC) Second Ten 11. Georgia Perimeter Spartanbur. Meth. (SC) 12. Chipola (FL) 13. Wabash Valley (IL) 14. Connors St. (OK) 15. Polk St. (FL) 16. Crowder (MO) 17. Darton St. (GA) 18. Central Arizona 19. Seminole St. (OK) 20. Middle Georgia St. Source: NJCAA Baseball

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Collegiate Baseball

Page 46

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Pacific Association

Orange Coast Ranked No. 1 With Another Imposing Ball Club TUCSON, Ariz. — The following are the top five rated junior colleges in each major section of the Pacific Association Division as voted on by the Association’s coaches.

The regions include Southern California, Northern California and the Northwest area of the USA.

much with our pitching and defense, we will be in games. But I don’t see us blowing anybody out.”

4. Santa Barbara The Vaqueros posted a 27-15 record last season and finished fifth in the state playoffs.

Eight position player starters return along with three quality pitchers, including All-American closer Kit Larson (6 SV, 4-2, 0.94 ERA, 41 K, 2 BB).

Other players to watch include RHP Justin Bruce (7-5, 3.65 ERA, 53 K, 27 BB), OF Brandon Evans (.267, 2 HR, 5 2B, 24 RBI), 1B Jimmy Brakka (.263, 1 HR, 10 2B, 27 RBI), SS Matt Henderson (.286, 2 2B, 13 RBI), 2B Spencer Erdman (.283, 1 2B, 17 RBI), RF Noah Martinez (.267, 6 2B, 19 RBI), and LF Connor McManigal (.306, 4 2B, 18 RBI, 9 SB).

Southern California

1. Orange Coast The defending state champs posted a 36-9 overall record last season and return three position player starters and five superb pitchers.

“We have a lot of new faces,” said Head Coach John Altobelli.

“We should have good pitching with good speed on offense.”

Players to watch include OF Tommy Bell (.384, 5 HR, 11 2B, 39 RBI, AllState as a freshman), LHP Art Vidrio (8-3, 2.22 ERA, 73 K, 2 SV), LHP Dominic Purpura (2 SV, 2-0, 24 IP, 18 K, 7 BB), RHP Scott Segerstad (transfer from Grand Canyon), and OF Robert Longtree (.278, 2 2B, 3 RBI, 8 SB).

The Pirates also landed an exceptional recruiting class of 19 players which has infused the team with plenty of top-notch talent once again.

2. Palomar The Comets posted a 28-11 record last season and were eliminated in regional action in the state playoffs.

Four position player starters are back, including C Francis Christy, an exceptional receiver who hit .305 with 2 HR, 9 2B, 19 RBI. Others to watch include LHP Jake Barnett (8-2, 2.50 ERA, 64 K, 18 BB), RHP Troy Lamparello (El Camino H.S., Oceanside, CA, 90 mph FB with plus change), RHP Shane Gonzales (transfer from USC, 92 mph FB), 2B Chris Stratton (.274, 2 2B, 12 RBI,

Orange Coast players celebrate 2014 California state title.

13 SB), and CF Alec Salcedo (.324, 1 2B, 13 RBI).

“We should be solid and athletic up the middle,” said Head Coach Buck Taylor.

“We have good left and righthanded hitters in the lineup, plus we have team speed with three legitimate power threats.”

3. Oxnard The Condors finished fourth in the state last season and rolled to a 33-12 overall record.

Gone are eight scholarship players from that team.

However, Head Coach Jon Larson has several key returners and a superb recruits that he landed.

The key players include LHP Oscar Sandoval (bounceback from Cal. St.

Northridge who has an 88-91 mph fastball), RHP Blake Redman (1 st team All-League who has exceptional command), C Daniel Barnett (2nd team All-League), SS Dustyn Cook (2nd team All-League, Defensive Player of Conference), OF Jarrett Maas (All-League), RHP Luis Magana (Hueneme H.S., All-County with 88-91 mph FB), RHP Chris Kovach (Royal H.S., 1st team All-County) and CF Nick Morelli (1st team All-League 2 years ago who returns).

“Our pitching should be very strong, and defensively we will be OK,” said Larson.

“But offensively, we must get better.

“We have better than average speed on offense but not much power. If we can keep opponents from scoring

5. Santa Ana Santa Ana tied for first in the rugged Orange Empire Conference and finished with a 28-13 overall record.

Six position player starters are back and seven pitchers.

“We will be a scrappy, veteran team with tremendous player leadership,” said Head Coach Bryan Harris.

“We are very strong on the mound and defensively. We should have a productive offense squad and be fast on the bases.”

Players to watch include 2B Alex Mascarenas (.404, 4 2B, 9 RBI, 11 SB), closer A.J. Franks (9 SV, 3-1, 0.73 ERA, 35 K, 5 BB), RHP Evanne Wilkes (4-2, 3.18 ERA), RHP Grant Wilhelm (Laguna Beach H.S., Pitcher of Year, 1st team All-CIF), 3B Troy Baird (.327, 6 2B, 21 RBI) and OF Nestor Linares (.324, 3 2B, 20 RBI).

California J.C. Pre-Season Poll Northern California Rank Team 1. San Joaquin Delta 2. Chabot 3. Sequoias 4. Feather River 5. Fresno City 6. Santa Rosa 7. Cosumnes River Sierra 9. Sacramento 10. San Mateo 11. Marin 12. Cabrillo 13. Merced 14. Mission 15. Butte 16. Diablo Valley

Southern California Rank Team 1. Orange Coast 2. Palomar 3. Oxnard 4. Santa Barbara 5. Santa Ana 6. Southwestern 7. Cypress 8. Riverside 9. Rio Hondo 10. East Los Angeles 11. Canyons 12. Saddleback 13. Allan Hancock 14. Los Angeles Mission 15. Cerritos 16. Los Angeles Pierce Source: California C.C. Coaches Assn.

See SAN JOAQUIN, Page 47

Mesa Picked To Repeat As NJCAA Division II Champions TUCSON, Ariz. — Defending NJCAA Division 2 national champion Mesa Community College (AZ) is the pre-season favorite to capture the title once again, according to the NJCAA Coaches Association.

The following a rundown on each of the top 5 ranked teams.

1. Mesa (AZ) The Thunderbirds rolled to a 52-13 overall record last season enroute to the NJCAA Division 2 national championship.

It was the most wins in school history.

Four position player starters are back along with three key pitchers.

Head Coach Tony Cirelli said that his 2015 ball club will have pitching depth and good overall team speed and defense.

One superb returner is 2B Jordan Zimmerman (.375, 5 HR, 14 2B, 45 RBI,

2015 NJCAA D-2 Pre-Season Poll

Rank Team 1. Mesa (AZ) 2. Hinds (MS) 3. Madison (WI) 4. Pasco Hernando (FL) 5. Mercer (NJ) 6. Southeastern (IA) 7. Northern Okla.-Enid 8. Vincennes (IN) 9. Lincoln Land (IL) 10. Westchester (NY) Second Ten 11. LSU-Eunice (LA) 12. Sinclair (OH) 13. Heartland (IL) 14. Frederick (MD) 15. Des Moines Area (IA) 16. Mercyhurst N.E. (PA) 17. Iowa Central 18. East Mississippi 19. Patrick Henry (VA) 20. N.W. Mississippi Source: NJCAA Baseball

21 SB).

Others to watch include RHP Tyler Carvalho (11-2, 3 SV, 1.58 ERA, 77 K, 28 BB), RHP Evan Fresquez (6-0, 1 SV, 2.73 ERA, 50 K, 21 BB), closer Danny Lutz (8 SV, 4-2, 3.55 ERA), SS Casey Moses (.297, 9 2B, 23 RBI, 8 SB), CF Alex Gudac (.317, 4 HR, 5 2B, 33 RBI, 22 SB), and RF James Anderson (.358, 6 2B, 21 RBI).

A quality recruiting class of 14 new players was also brought on board including 1B Jacob Boston (Mesa, AZ, All-State), RF Kent Hassler (Mesa, AZ, All-State), 3B Logan Ethrington (Las Vegas, NV, All-State), 3B Colton Corum (Winslow, AZ, All-State, 3A Player of Year), LF Mitchell Morimoto (Isakauw, WA., All-State) and OF Drew Lawrence (Boulder Creek, AZ, All-State 2nd team).

2. Hinds (MS) The Eagles finished second at the NJCAA Division 2 World Series last season and rolled to a 40-21 overall record.

Six position player starters are back along with four quality pitchers.

“We have an incredible amount of experience returning from last year’s team that competed in the national title game,” said Head Coach Sam Temple.

“We have filled in the missing pieces with a solid group of mature, savvy freshmen.”

One outstanding returner is closer Austin Sanders (10 SV, 8-3, 2.95 ERA, 45 K, 23 BB) who has a 94 mph fastball.

Others to watch include 1B Marshall Boggs (.366, 3 HR, 18 2B, 37 RBI), 3B Chase Lunceford (.328, 10 HR, 10 2B, 48 RBI), 2B Matt Jones (.323, 10 HR, 11 2B, 48 RBI), RHP Casey Sutton (8-3, 4.90 ERA, 61 K, 21 BB), and RHP Randy Bell (9-4, 4.98 ERA, 64 K, 29 BB).

Hinds also landed a fine recruiting class of 14 newcomers.

3. Madison (WI) The WolfPack posted a 45-17 overall record last season and finished third at the NJCAA Division 2 World Series.

Five position player starters are back along with two key pitchers.

“We return some key position players from last year’s third place team and have added some talented transfers and freshmen,” said Head Coach Mike Davenport.

“The pitching staff has a good balance of talented sophomores and freshmen that will be in our rotation and bullpen. Defense should be the biggest strength of our team.”

Players to watch include OF/RHP Brandon Gibis (.347, 8 2B, 20 RBI, 14 SB, 2 SV, 1-0, 3.00 ERA), 2B Sam Hurt (.321, 7 2B, 24 RBI), LHP Marcellus Sneed (5-2, 3.32 ERA, 41 K, 19 BB), and RHP Westin Wuethrich (2-0, 2.56

ERA, 39 K, 24 BB).

A talented group of 14 newcomers will also help led by SS Tony Butler (transfer from Univ. of Virginia), OF Nick Kanavas (transfer from Univ. of Arizona), C Mike Alello (transfer from Wisconsin-Milwaukee), among a host of other talented players.

4. Pasco-Hernando St. (FL) The Conquistadors finished fourth at the 2014 NJCAA Division 2 World Series and posted a 27-18 overall record.

Four position player starters return along

with two key pitchers in RHP Chris McCormick (8-4, 2.02 ERA, 71 K, 31 BB) and RHP Danny Rodriguez (10-4, 2.76 ERA, 58 K, 24 BB).

“We have our top two pitchers (McCormick and Rodriguez) who led us to the World Series,” said Head Coach Steve Winterling.

“Defense should be strong with lots of speed. Hitting will be a concern.”

5. Mercer County (NJ) The Vikings rolled to a 40-8 overall record last season and return six position player starters and two key pitchers.

Key returners include C Dave Osnato (.434, 6 HR, 10 2B,3 2 RBI), LHP Matt Gall (6-1, 2.68 ERA, 27 K, 11 BB), RHP Nate Vahedi (4 SV, 2-2, 3.38 ERA), RF Joe Santo Spago (.385, 3 HR, 8 2B, 31 RBI, 12 SB), 1B Brandon Kirk (.331, 10 2B, 25 RBI), SS James Rice (.300, 3 HR, 8 2B, 22 RBI), CF Eddie Ashley (.350, 2 HR, 4 2B, 16 RBI, 21 SB), and 3B Shane Monahan (.295, 3 HR, 7 2B, 22 RBI).

“The team has a deep pitching staff, and basically our entire lineup returns,” said Head Coach Kevin Kerins.

Tyler Ranked No. 1 In Div. III Poll

TUCSON, Ariz. — Defending NJCAA Division 3 national champion Tyler Junior College (TX) is the pre-season favorite to capture the title once again, according to the NJCAA Coaches Association.

The following a rundown on each of the top 5 ranked teams.

1. Tyler (TX) The Apaches posted a 42-17 record enroute to the national championship last season and return four position player starters and one key pitcher in RHP Cody Brown (7-1, 1.99 ERA, 69 K, 26 BB).

“Cody is a quality arm with plus stuff,” said Head Coach Doug Wren.

“He’ll feature 3 plus pitches that he can throw for strikes. He made the transition easily from the bullpen to the rotation last year, and we look to him to anchor our staff in 2015.”

Wren said he is excited about his 2015 ball club.

“We will feature a lot of new faces (21 newcomers), but we will have some key returners from last year’s national championship team to provide leadership.”

Other returners to watch include OF Zane Otten (.390, 6 2B, 34 RBI, 36 SB), 1B Reid Russell (.250, 2 HR, 9 2B, 20 RBI), SS Tim Hunter (.220, 4 2B, 22 RBI, 16 SB), DH Colin Lawrence (.291, 5 2B, 17 RBI), and 2B Gunnar Quick (.250, 3 2B, 5 RBI).

2. Cumberland County (NJ) The Dukes posted a 49-10 record last season and finished second at the NJCAA Division 3 World Series.

Four position player starters are back along with four quality pitchers.

“If we stay healthy and lose no one to grades, we should be a top five team nationally,” said Head Coach Keith Gorman.

One player to watch is C/P Joe Zanghi, a

transfer from the University of Connecticut. He is a quality receiver but also can throw it up to 92 mph with his fastball on the mound.

Other players to watch include RHP Justin Smith (Hammonton H.S., N.J.), 2B Tyler Mixon (.381, 7 2B, 37 RBI, 12 SB), DH Arturo Ocasio (.318, 11 2B, 26 RBI), RHP Justin Geri (7-2, 2.59 ERA), and RHP Chris Seibert (6-1, 2.19 ERA).

3. Herkimer County (NY) The Generals finished third at the NJCAA Division 3 World Series and posted a 41-11 overall record.

Four position player starters are back along with two quality pitchers.

“This is one of those years where a lot of big pieces fell into place to create something special,” said Head Coach Jason Rathbun.

“We featured the best two catchers in the region last year and a pitching staff with proven success and three arms going to D1 schools. The left side of our infield features an All-American and a 12th round pick.”

Players to watch include SS Tyler Phillips (.403, 2 HR, 19 2B, 30 RBI, All-American), C John Boland (.419, 4 HR, 13 2B, 41 RBI, All-Region), RF Eric Downey (.409, 7 2B, 30 RBI), LHP Patrick Merryweather (transfer from Onondaga C.C., 9-0, 1.25 ERA, All-American), RHP Jacob Shortsief (transfer from Onondaga C.C., 7-0, 1.80 ERA, All-Region), 3B Pat Dorrian (Kingston H.S., N.Y., 12th round pick by Atlanta).

4. St. Cloud Tech. (MN) The Cyclones posted a 28-9 record last season and were region champions.

Three position player starters are back along with five quality pitchers.

“We have good quality depth,” said Head Coach Jason Fischer.

“We will have a good combination of speed and power. It could be the most talented team I have had, but we are relatively young. If the freshmen can produce early, we should win some games.”

Players to keep your eye on include 3B/P Turner Doornink (Clintonville H.S., WI, .621, 7 HR, 41 RBI, 1st team All-State), C Kolin Kubitz (.403, 5 HR, 7 2B, 49 RBI, 18 SB), SS Mikey Barreneche (.413, 6 2B, 23 RBI, 14 SB), 3B

2015 NJCAA D-3 Pre-Season Poll

Rank Team 1. Tyler (TX) 2. Cumberland (NJ) 3. Herkimer County (NY) 4. St. Cloud Tech. (MN) 5. Northern Essex (MA) 6. Waubonsee (IL) 7. Prince George’s (MD) 8. Suffolk County (NY) 9. Century (MN) 10. Onondaga (NY) Source: NJCAA Baseball Coaches Association

Duncan Pederson (.324, 8 2B, 21 RBI), and RHP Andy Petersen (6-1, 2.58 ERA, 42 K, 14 BB).

5. Northern Essex (MA) Northern Essex posted a 21-14 overall record last season and returns six position player starters and five superb pitchers.

Key returners include 6-foot-5 RHP Ryan McAuliffe (5-3, 2.80 ERA, 59 K, 13 BB, 92 mph FB), CF Harrison Smoske (.361, 3 2B, 22 RBI, 20 SB), OF Elmidia Crisostome (.389, 3 HR, 6 2B, 18 RBI), 2B MacDanial Singleton (.305, 2 2B, 18 RBI, 15 SB), and 1B Jake Rayner (.333, 10 2B, 17 RBI during 2013 season).

“We should have our best defensive team in three years,” said Head Coach Jeff Mejia.

“We also have the most arms we have ever had.”

Northern Essex also landed a 14-man recruiting class which is superb.

Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Page 47

San Joaquin Delta No. 1 In Northern California Poll Continued From Page 46

Northern California

1. San Joaquin Delta The Mustangs rolled to a 35-11 record last season and finished second in the state finals.

Five position player starters are back including C Collin Theroux (.274, 3 HR, 12 2B, 28 RBI), RF Kris Bartlett (.318, 5 2B, 30 RBI, 14 SB), SS Jacob Thomas (.261, 2 2B, 22 RBI), UT Zack Perugi (.275, 13 RBI) and DH Joe Starick (.317, 2 HR, 2 2B, 18 RBI).

No key pitchers return for San Joaquin Delta.

So the coaching staff went to work and landed an exceptional group of pitchers, including RHP Dean Kremer (redshirt), LHP Cameron Avilla Leeper (Grant H.S., Sacramento, CA, drafted

by Twins), P Ricky Delgado (redshirted with knee surgery), and 6-foot-5, 205 pound P/OF Lance Berringer (transfer from Nevada-Reno).

“We have a young pitching staff, but we also have some quality arms in Kremer, Leeper, Delgado and Berringer,” said Head Coach Reed Peters.

“All four of them have 90 mph arms. Lance Berringer, if healthy, has all the tools with a 94 mph fastball and good power from the left side of the plate.We also will be pretty solid up the middle defensively.”

2. Chabot The Gladiators posted a 32-10 record last season and finished fifth in the state playoffs.

Chabot only returns two position player starters but four quality pitchers.

Key players to watch include SS Ian Dawkins (.372, 11 2B, 30 RBI), OF Blake Guardino (.301, 3 2B, 19 RBI), LHP John Hemenes (2-0, 3.00 ERA, 28 K, 14 BB), RHP Ulysses Ramos (0-1, 3.12 ERA, 14 K) and RHP Jacob Dronkers (2-1, 2.78 ERA, 16 K).

Head Coach Steve Friend and his staff also brought in an exceptional recruiting class of 25 players led by INF Brett Binning (transfer from Auburn), OF Mike Echavia (transfer from Univ. of Hawaii), RHP Joe Navihlon (transfer from Cal. St. Fullerton), INF Brad Gosiengfiao (Dougherty Valley H.S.).

3. Sequoias The Giants posted a 34-13 record last season and finished third in the state.

Six position player starters are back along with two key pitchers.

Key players to watch include closer/CF Blake Edmonson (17 SV, 1.21 ERA in 25 AP and 0 blown saves, .291, 9 2B, 15 RBI All-American), RHP Gene Cachu (9-2, 4.42 ERA, 37 K, 16 BB), and C Dillon Kelley (.366, 2 HR, 11 2B, 41 RBI, All-American), 1B Matt Cota (medical redshirt), DH Joey Gallegos (.236, 3 2B, 11 RBI), 2B Flo Perez (.238, 3 2B, 17 RBI) and LF Wyatt Champlin (.329, 6 2B, 27 RBI) 4. Feather River The Golden Eagles were 29-10 last season and were eliminated in regional action.

Four position player starters are back, including OF Eli Putnam (.349, 6 2B, 19 RBI, 31 SB), SS Nathan Reynolds (.330, 11 2B, 15 RBI, 16 SB) along with two key pitchers in RHP Skylar Haynes (8-1, 2.22 ERA) and RHP O’Keeffe Hall.

“We should have an offense that can score runs in a variety of ways,” said Head Coach Terry Baumgartner.

“We have speed, power and the ability to handle the bat. If our young pitching can develop in the spring, then we should be able to make a deep run in the playoffs.”

5. Fresno City The Rams posted a 23-16 record last season and finished second in the Central Valley Conference.

Fresno welcomes back two allleague pitchers in RHP Jorge Alvarado (7-2, 2.09 ERA, 65 K, 16 BB) and

RHP Connor Brogdon (4-0, 1.57 ERA, 51 K, 22 BB).

In addition, two all-league outfielders return in Daniel Gardner (.322, 4 2B, 15 RBI, 11 SB) and Nate Navarrette (.330, 4 2B, 3 3B, 16 RBI).

Head Coach Ron Scott, in his 27th year with Fresno City, has racked up an 887-326 record which is fourth alltime and first in Northern California history.

Northwest

1. Lane (OR) The Titans rolled to a 30-18 record last season and return three position player starters and two key pitchers.

Key players to watch include 2B Buddy Webb (transfer from Western Nevada JC), RHP Jaime Flynn (transfer from Western Nevada JC), RHP Shane Quarterley (3-0, 0.57 ERA, 30 K, 3 SV), RHP Travis Boggs (5-1, 3 SV, 0.39 ERA), LF Darin Nelson (.281, 4 2B, 20 RBI), CF Forrest Garcia (.343, 6 2B, 13 RBI, 11 SB) and C Kyle Beam (.235, 3 HR, 6 2B, 14 RBI).

“We have good depth on the mound with strong front end pitching,” said Head Coach Josh Blunt.

“We are very young position player wise and will need to mature.”

2. Treasure Valley (OR) The Chukars posted a 35-12 record

last season and return four position player starters and three quality pitchers.

Players to watch include 2B Lane Lacrone (.338, 11 2B, 19 RBI, 12 SB, Gold Glove winner), SS/RHP Daulton Blackwell (.309, 10 2B, 21 RBI, 14 SB, 1-0, 1.28 ERA), RHP Tanner Lupton (7-0, 1.43 ERA, 76 K, 26 BB), C Spencer Pollock (.317, 7 2B, 15 RBI), CF Aaron Alexander (.229, 4 HR, 20 RBI) and RHP Cody Carroll (0.0, 1.50 ERA).

Treasure Valley also landed a superb recruiting class of 27 newcomers.

“We have an exciting group coming back from a regional championship,” said Head Coach Aaron Sutton.

“We return the middle of our defense and lineup along with our top starting pitchers. We have outstanding leadership from our sophomores who were leaders as freshmen. We don’t have the offensive power from a year ago, but we should pitch at a high level.”

3. Tacoma (WA) Tacoma posted a superb 39-8 record last season and returns four position player starters and four quality pitchers.

Key players to watch include RHP Justin Vernia (11-0, 1.18 ERA, 59 K, 13 BB), RHP Stephen White (2-1, 2.34 ERA, 23 K, 8 BB), RHP Cory Main (3-0, 2.10 ERA), 1B/LHP Brett

Nielsen (.265, 3 HR, 11 2B, 44 RBI, 0-1, 4.69 ERA) and OF Isaiah Terry (Kentridge H.S., Kent. WA).

“After falling in the semi-finals of the Northwest Athletic Conference, we have some key pieces returning to go with possibly our most talented freshman class ever,” said Head Coach Ryan Mummert.

“We have depth on the mound and more power bats than a year ago. If the new guys make a jump, we should have a chance to make another postseason run.”

4. Bellevue (WA) The Bulldogs posted a 28-23 record last season and finished second in the Northwest Athletic Conference tournament.

Only two key position player starters are back along with two key pitchers. But a superb recruiting class of 19 has infused the program with terrific talent.

“We are young but just as talented as last year’s group,” said Head Coach Mark Yoshino.

Key players to watch include OF Alex Galgano (.340, 6 2B, 17 RBI, 3B Alex Check (.290, 12 RBI), RHP Zander Clouse (93 mph FB), OF Sam Finfer (transfer from Seattle University, drafted by Dodgers in 2013 out of high school), and RHP Marty Luckenbach (former Area Code Games participant).

Northwest J.C. Pre-Season Poll Rank Team 1. Lane (OR) 2. Treasure Valley (OR) 3. Tacoma (WA) 4. Bellevue (WA) 5. Lower Columbia (WA) 6. Everett (WA) 7. Pierce (WA) 8. Edmonds (WA) 9. Douglas (BC) 10. Mt. Hood (OR) Source: N.W. Junior Coll.

Poll Committee 5. Lower Columbia (WA) The Red Devils posted a 30-15 record last season and return two position player starters and four key pitchers.

Players to watch include RHP Tanner Olson (5-2, 3.29 ERA, 51 K, 15 BB), RHP Jeremy Rabauliman (40, 3.35 ERA, 34 K, 23 BB), RHP Kyle Rossman (3 SV, 2-1, 3.97 ERA, 31 K), RHP Gabe Ihrig (3-1, 3.13 ERA), SS Seaver Whalen (transfer from Santa Clara), SS Michael Forgione (.356, 5 2B, 22 RBI, 20 SB) and OF Tanner Marty (.285, 6 2B, 24 RBI).

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Collegiate Baseball

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015