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OWH: Kubat stellar as Huskers even series with Loyola Marymount
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OWH: Kubat stellar as Huskers even series with LMU
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OWH: Kubat stellar as Huskers even series with LMU
LJS: Huskers tame Lions behind Kubat
The Nebraska baseball team put together a complete game Saturday, defeating Loyola Marymount 8-1 in Los Angeles behind stellar pitching and hitting.
The Huskers (5-4) erupted for 15 hits, and Kyle Kubat allowed just three hits in seven innings. The senior left-hander gave up an RBI double to the third batter he faced, then retired 16 straight. He finished with three strikeouts and lowered his ERA to 1.93.
Blake Headley led the Husker attack, going 3-for-5 with two doubles and two RBIs. Tanner Lubach was 2-for-4 and also had two RBIs. Six NU players had at least two hits. The only Husker to not get a hit was designated hitter Ben Miller, whose 10-game on-base streak and eight-game hitting streak were snapped.
Coach Darin Erstad was pleased with NU's effort.
"We just were having great at-bats," he said on his postgame radio show. "We got some pitches up and took advantage of them. Everyone really contributed."
Nebraska got its leadoff hitter on in six of the nine innings.
Loyola Marymount took a 1-0 lead in the first inning when David Fletcher doubled home a run after Kubat hit Billy Wilson with one out.
But Kubat (1-0) settled down and the Nebraska bats got going in the third. Jake Schleppenbach and Ryan Boldt both singled, then Headley doubled off the top of the right-field wall to give NU a 2-1 lead.
Steven Reveles' double in the top of the fourth gave NU a 3-1 advantage. One inning later, Headley led off with a double and scored on a sacrifice fly by Lubach.
The Huskers added to their lead in the sixth, scoring three times. Luis Alvarado led off with a single, then Reveles singled. The Lions brought in reliever Tyler Cohen, but he promptly misplayed Schleppenbach's sacrifice bunt, throwing the ball into right field. Alvarado and Reveles scored on the error and Schleppenbach advanced to third. He came home on Scott Schreiber's single.
Lubach led off the top of the seventh with a home run, just NU's second of the season. His shot barely cleared the left-field fence.
Kubat walked just one and threw 100 pitches in seven innings.
Other than the first inning, the only time Kubat was in any trouble was the seventh, when he gave up a single and a walk. But he got a lineout and a strikeout to end the Lions' threat.
"The thing I was most impressed with, once we started scoring, he just clamped down," Erstad said of Kubat. "Shutdown innings are really important."
The teams play the rubber game in the series at 1 p.m. Sunday. Loyola Marymount (7-3) won Friday's game 4-1.
Erstad said the NU bullpen will be fresh.
"We didn't have to use (Jeff) Chesnut, (Colton) Howell or (Josh) Roeder," the coach said. "We'll have to be very sharp. Anytime you have the opportunity to win a series on the road, we'll take that."
LJS: Huskers tame Lions behind Kubat
The Nebraska baseball team put together a complete game Saturday, defeating Loyola Marymount 8-1 in Los Angeles behind stellar pitching and hitting.
The Huskers (5-4) erupted for 15 hits, and Kyle Kubat allowed just three hits in seven innings. The senior left-hander gave up an RBI double to the third batter he faced, then retired 16 straight. He finished with three strikeouts and lowered his ERA to 1.93.
Blake Headley led the Husker attack, going 3-for-5 with two doubles and two RBIs. Tanner Lubach was 2-for-4 and also had two RBIs. Six NU players had at least two hits. The only Husker to not get a hit was designated hitter Ben Miller, whose 10-game on-base streak and eight-game hitting streak were snapped.
Coach Darin Erstad was pleased with NU's effort.
"We just were having great at-bats," he said on his postgame radio show. "We got some pitches up and took advantage of them. Everyone really contributed."
Nebraska got its leadoff hitter on in six of the nine innings.
Loyola Marymount took a 1-0 lead in the first inning when David Fletcher doubled home a run after Kubat hit Billy Wilson with one out.
But Kubat (1-0) settled down and the Nebraska bats got going in the third. Jake Schleppenbach and Ryan Boldt both singled, then Headley doubled off the top of the right-field wall to give NU a 2-1 lead.
Steven Reveles' double in the top of the fourth gave NU a 3-1 advantage. One inning later, Headley led off with a double and scored on a sacrifice fly by Lubach.
The Huskers added to their lead in the sixth, scoring three times. Luis Alvarado led off with a single, then Reveles singled. The Lions brought in reliever Tyler Cohen, but he promptly misplayed Schleppenbach's sacrifice bunt, throwing the ball into right field. Alvarado and Reveles scored on the error and Schleppenbach advanced to third. He came home on Scott Schreiber's single.
Lubach led off the top of the seventh with a home run, just NU's second of the season. His shot barely cleared the left-field fence.
Kubat walked just one and threw 100 pitches in seven innings.
Other than the first inning, the only time Kubat was in any trouble was the seventh, when he gave up a single and a walk. But he got a lineout and a strikeout to end the Lions' threat.
"The thing I was most impressed with, once we started scoring, he just clamped down," Erstad said of Kubat. "Shutdown innings are really important."
The teams play the rubber game in the series at 1 p.m. Sunday. Loyola Marymount (7-3) won Friday's game 4-1.
Erstad said the NU bullpen will be fresh.
"We didn't have to use (Jeff) Chesnut, (Colton) Howell or (Josh) Roeder," the coach said. "We'll have to be very sharp. Anytime you have the opportunity to win a series on the road, we'll take that."
LJS: Huskers tame Lions behind Kubat
NU: Kubat Delivers in 8-1 Win
Los Angeles, Calif. - Behind the arm of senior Kyle Kubat and a season-high 15-hit effort from the Husker offense, the Nebraska baseball team (5-4, 0-0 Big Ten) evened its three-game series with the Loyola Marymount Lions (7-3, 0-0 WCC) with an 8-1 win on Saturday afternoon at Page Stadium.
Following a pair of no decisions to start the season, senior Kyle Kubat picked up his first win of the year and the 16th of his career on Saturday. The 6-1 lefty went 7.0 innings and allowed just five base runners on the afternoon, including three hits, a walk and a hit-by-pitch. Kubat retired the Lions in order four times on the day, and from the first through the sixth innings he sat down 16 straight Lions.
After producing only seven hits in last night's series opener the Husker offense found its rhythm early on Saturday, with eight hits through the first four innings. Six Huskers produced multiple hits on the afternoon, including three hits from Blake Headley. Headley notched two doubles for the third time in his career, while he and Tanner Lubach each recorded two RBIs.
Nebraska started an inning with a hit six times on the day, including a solo home run by Lubach in the seventh that cleared a 37-foot tall wall in left field.
LMU starter Trevor Megill lasted just 3.1 innings for the Lions, as the junior was touched for three runs on eight hits. It was a Megill's shortest start since April 6, 2013 when he went 3.0 innings against San Diego.
LMU may have not scored in the game if it hadn't been for a miscue by Kubat in the bottom of the first. After retiring the leadoff hitter, Kubat plunked Billy Wilson a 3-2 pitch and the Lions made it hurt, as David Fletcher followed with a RBI double. Kubat then went on to retire 16 straight Lions.
Jake Schleppenbach and Ryan Boldt each picked up their second hits of game in the third and unlike the first inning when both were stranded, the Huskers were able to cash in on the opportunity. Headley came up with one out and battled Megill in an extended at-bat, and on the 10th pitch Headley delivered a two-RBI double off the right-center field wall that put the Huskers ahead 2-1. It was Headley's third double of the year, as well as his ninth and 10th RBIs of the season.
With Kubat cruising, the Huskers tacked on a run in both the fourth and fifth innings to give their senior starter a 4-1 lead. Steven Reveles drove in Austin Darby in the fourth with a double and Headley scored in the fifth on a sac fly from Lubach after Headley opened the inning with his second double of the game.
Nebraska pushed its lead to six runs in the sixth, with two runs coming on a LMU error. Luis Alvarado and Reveles opened the inning with back-to-back singles, and Schleppenbach executed a sacrifice bunt, but on the play reliever Tyler Cohen made an errant throw to first base that allowed two runs to score and Schleppenbach to coast into third base. Freshman Scott Schreiber followed with an infield RBI single, the first of his NU career, to put the Huskers on top 7-1.
The Huskers notched at least a run for the fifth straight inning in the seventh with Lubach's home run. The solo shot was a no doubter, as it not only cleared the 362-foot sign in left-center field, but also the 37-foot tall blue monster.
Freshman Jake Meyers finished off the game for the Huskers, tossing a pair of shutout innings to cap the 8-1 win.
Tomorrow's rubber match is scheduled for 1 p.m. (CT) and sophomore Derek Burkamper will start for the Huskers. Lane Grindle and Ben McLaughlin will have the call on the Husker Sports Network, while LMULions.com will have a free video stream.
NU: Kubat Delivers in 8-1 Win
Los Angeles, Calif. - Behind the arm of senior Kyle Kubat and a season-high 15-hit effort from the Husker offense, the Nebraska baseball team (5-4, 0-0 Big Ten) evened its three-game series with the Loyola Marymount Lions (7-3, 0-0 WCC) with an 8-1 win on Saturday afternoon at Page Stadium.
Following a pair of no decisions to start the season, senior Kyle Kubat picked up his first win of the year and the 16th of his career on Saturday. The 6-1 lefty went 7.0 innings and allowed just five base runners on the afternoon, including three hits, a walk and a hit-by-pitch. Kubat retired the Lions in order four times on the day, and from the first through the sixth innings he sat down 16 straight Lions.
After producing only seven hits in last night's series opener the Husker offense found its rhythm early on Saturday, with eight hits through the first four innings. Six Huskers produced multiple hits on the afternoon, including three hits from Blake Headley. Headley notched two doubles for the third time in his career, while he and Tanner Lubach each recorded two RBIs.
Nebraska started an inning with a hit six times on the day, including a solo home run by Lubach in the seventh that cleared a 37-foot tall wall in left field.
LMU starter Trevor Megill lasted just 3.1 innings for the Lions, as the junior was touched for three runs on eight hits. It was a Megill's shortest start since April 6, 2013 when he went 3.0 innings against San Diego.
LMU may have not scored in the game if it hadn't been for a miscue by Kubat in the bottom of the first. After retiring the leadoff hitter, Kubat plunked Billy Wilson a 3-2 pitch and the Lions made it hurt, as David Fletcher followed with a RBI double. Kubat then went on to retire 16 straight Lions.
Jake Schleppenbach and Ryan Boldt each picked up their second hits of game in the third and unlike the first inning when both were stranded, the Huskers were able to cash in on the opportunity. Headley came up with one out and battled Megill in an extended at-bat, and on the 10th pitch Headley delivered a two-RBI double off the right-center field wall that put the Huskers ahead 2-1. It was Headley's third double of the year, as well as his ninth and 10th RBIs of the season.
With Kubat cruising, the Huskers tacked on a run in both the fourth and fifth innings to give their senior starter a 4-1 lead. Steven Reveles drove in Austin Darby in the fourth with a double and Headley scored in the fifth on a sac fly from Lubach after Headley opened the inning with his second double of the game.
Nebraska pushed its lead to six runs in the sixth, with two runs coming on a LMU error. Luis Alvarado and Reveles opened the inning with back-to-back singles, and Schleppenbach executed a sacrifice bunt, but on the play reliever Tyler Cohen made an errant throw to first base that allowed two runs to score and Schleppenbach to coast into third base. Freshman Scott Schreiber followed with an infield RBI single, the first of his NU career, to put the Huskers on top 7-1.
The Huskers notched at least a run for the fifth straight inning in the seventh with Lubach's home run. The solo shot was a no doubter, as it not only cleared the 362-foot sign in left-center field, but also the 37-foot tall blue monster.
Freshman Jake Meyers finished off the game for the Huskers, tossing a pair of shutout innings to cap the 8-1 win.
Tomorrow's rubber match is scheduled for 1 p.m. (CT) and sophomore Derek Burkamper will start for the Huskers. Lane Grindle and Ben McLaughlin will have the call on the Husker Sports Network, while LMULions.com will have a free video stream.
NU: Kubat Delivers in 8-1 Win
LMU: Nebraska Evens Series with Lions
LOS ANGELES, Calif. - The LMU baseball program (7-3) scored first on Saturday, but Nebraska (5-4) scored eight total runs on 15 hits and received an outstanding pitching performance from senior Kyle Kubat en route to defeating the Lions by a score of 8-1 from Page Stadium. With the victory, the Huskers evened the three-game series with the Lions, forcing a decisive game three tomorrow at 11 a.m.
Kubat went 7.0 strong innings, allowing just one run on three hits and one walk while striking out three to improve to 1-0 on the year. The left-hander retired 16 straight Lion hitters from the end of the first through two out in the sixth. Sophomore David Fletcher did the only damage, lining an RBI-double into right centerfield to bring home Billy Wilson in the first inning. The string of 16 batters retired was broken by a single from Wilson in the sixth. LMU's only other hit went to Tanner Donnels in the seventh.
Junior Trevor Megill lasted just 3.1 innings for the Lions, allowing three runs on eight hits before being tagged with the loss and falling to 1-1.
Blake Headley and Tanner Lubach paced the Nebraska offense, finishing 3-for-5 and 2-for-4, respectively. Headley collected a run scored, two doubles and two RBI as part of his three-hit day, while Lubach drove in two, including one on a solo homer in the seventh. Six Husker batters collected multiple hits, and every starter except Ben Miller (0-for-5) collected at least one hit.
The Lions will look to win the series tomorrow when they send freshman Tylor Megill to the mound at 11 a.m.
LMU: Nebraska Evens Series with Lions
LOS ANGELES, Calif. - The LMU baseball program (7-3) scored first on Saturday, but Nebraska (5-4) scored eight total runs on 15 hits and received an outstanding pitching performance from senior Kyle Kubat en route to defeating the Lions by a score of 8-1 from Page Stadium. With the victory, the Huskers evened the three-game series with the Lions, forcing a decisive game three tomorrow at 11 a.m.
Kubat went 7.0 strong innings, allowing just one run on three hits and one walk while striking out three to improve to 1-0 on the year. The left-hander retired 16 straight Lion hitters from the end of the first through two out in the sixth. Sophomore David Fletcher did the only damage, lining an RBI-double into right centerfield to bring home Billy Wilson in the first inning. The string of 16 batters retired was broken by a single from Wilson in the sixth. LMU's only other hit went to Tanner Donnels in the seventh.
Junior Trevor Megill lasted just 3.1 innings for the Lions, allowing three runs on eight hits before being tagged with the loss and falling to 1-1.
Blake Headley and Tanner Lubach paced the Nebraska offense, finishing 3-for-5 and 2-for-4, respectively. Headley collected a run scored, two doubles and two RBI as part of his three-hit day, while Lubach drove in two, including one on a solo homer in the seventh. Six Husker batters collected multiple hits, and every starter except Ben Miller (0-for-5) collected at least one hit.
The Lions will look to win the series tomorrow when they send freshman Tylor Megill to the mound at 11 a.m.
LMU: Nebraska Evens Series with Lions
D1 - Ten Thoughts: Saturday, Feb. 28
1. Another Terrific Clemson-South Carolina Finale Coming
It wouldn't be the Clemson-South Carolina rivalry without at least something at stake entering the series finale. For the Gamecocks, it's pretty simple: they want nothing more than to extend their continued dominance of the Tigers in the regular season series. Meanwhile, the Tigers would love nothing more than to once and for all shake that South Carolina monkey off their back.
Another big-time atmosphere engulfed downtown Greenville, S.C (Aaron Fitt)
Another big-time atmosphere engulfed downtown Greenville, S.C (Aaron Fitt)
To get to a crucial series finale even, the Gamecocks needed a strong showing Saturday after suffering the first blow in the series opener at Clemson. Saturday, the series shifted to Fluor Field in Greenville, S.C., where lefthander Jack Wynkoop got the team started on a positive note and had a strong start, striking out seven, walking just two and allowing a run on five hits in six innings.
The tone was set in the second inning, though, as South Carolina got a pair of doubles from Connor Bright and Alex Destino, Destino's an RBI double, and Elliott Caldwell added the third run of the inning with an RBI single through the right side to extend South Carolina's lead to 3-0. With Wynkoop in the zone and the Gamecocks in good shape out of the bullpen, that's all they'd need to even the series.
South Carolina righthander Taylor Widener was electric out of the bullpen, sitting in the low-to-mid 90s with his fastball, while also striking out five and walking just one in two hitless frames.
2. Mississippi State Had A Big Day
We've slowly but surely started to hop on the Mississippi State train through the first three weeks of the season. Sure, the Bulldogs were impressive the first two weekends, but that wasn't exactly against the best competition. This weekend, though, the Bulldogs are making a rather bold statement, sitting at 3-0 so far with a pair of wins over a quality Arizona club, along with a single win over Samford.
Mississippi StateMississippi State has shown a lot of balance this weekend. In today's first game, a 6-2 triumph over Arizona, State righthander Austin Sexton, who really blew up over the summer, was terrific, striking out 10, walking no one and allowing just two runs on four hits in 5 2/3 innings. Sexton is the first Bulldogs pitcher since first-round pick Chris Stratton to notch double-digit strikeouts, while also not walking anyone in a start.
Lefthander Lucas Laster was also impressive in an 8-2 win over Samford, like Sexton, not walking anyone, striking out seven and allowing just two runs in 6 1/3 innings. State also received much production at the plate from catcher Cody Walker, who along with Josh Lovelady, have contributed since sophomore catcher Gavin Collins went down with an injury. Just imagine how this team will look when Collins' bat is back in the lineup.
It's still early, but Mississippi State is a strong candidate to make a sizable leap in our Monday rankings, granted the poll mechanics make sense.
3. Kentucky's Kyle Cody Looks The Part
University of Kentucky logoCody and the Wildcats had a tough showing last weekend against UC Santa Barbara, especially the talented righthander, who allowed seven runs in just three innings. But this weekend, the power-armed Cody pieced together an impressive start in a 5-1 win over Nebraska-Omaha.
Cody struck out a career-high nine and walked one in seven hitless innings. He also retired 15-straight hitters to end his outing, throwing 96 pitches, 63 four strikes.
The Wildcats will need Cody to be consistently dominant if they want to make noise in the SEC regular season race.
4. Notre Dame For Real?
Notre Dame logoPerhaps we shouldn't be too surprised given coach Mike Aoki's background and ability to get the most out of his teams, but the Fighting Irish are one of the big surprises early this season, moving to 9-1 on Saturday after an 8-2 win over Mercer. The Irish cranked four homers against the Bears, including two from highly touted second baseman Cavan Biggio, who's now hitting .525/.630/.950 with seven doubles, two triples, two homers and 11 RBIs. Kyle Fiala and Robert Youngdahl also hit homers for the Irish.
We'll find out much more about the Fighting Irish come ACC play, but this team is off to a terrific start with some impressive wins, including a pair of triumphs over Oklahoma on the road to begin the season.
5. Auburn Rolls Over Oklahoma State
There weren't many pumping up the Tigers before the season, but this team had the talent to make some noise both in nonconference and in upcoming SEC play. Well, the Tigers made their first nice statement Saturday afternoon with a 9-2 victory over Oklahoma State to improve to 9-2 overall.
Auburn Tigers logoAuburn designated hitter Hunter Tackett hit a home run, finished 2-for-5 and knocked in two runs, while Anfernee Grier and J.J. Shaffer each finished the contest with three hits. The Tigers also got a studly performance out of the pen from righthander Cole Lipscomb, who was fabulous, striking out eight, walking just one and allowing just a hit in 4 2/3 innings, while the offense touched up Oklahoma State starting pitcher Jon Perrin for four runs on six hits in 4 1/3 innings.
Auburn head coach Sunny Golloway has had plenty of success every step of the way in his coaching career, and he might just be ready to make his move in the SEC.
6. Oregon Getting Cozy With Cuddy
Mark Karaviotis congratulates Brandon Cuddy after he scores while UCSB pitcher Shane Bieber walks back to the mound with his head down. (Shotgun Spratling)
Mark Karaviotis congratulates Brandon Cuddy. (Shotgun Spratling)
Even though the Ducks finished last season with rather respectable offensive numbers, that still was a team you looked at each week and weren't particularly afraid of. Well, this year's 1-9 might be a little different, especially with the addition of someone like 6-foot-2, 215-pound first baseman Brandon Cuddy from Seminole State (Okla.) College.
Cuddy had an incredible afternoon as the Ducks crushed UC Santa Barbara 11-3 to clinch an impressive and crucial road series victory over a good Gauchos club. Cuddy had a day, hitting a two-run triple in the fourth inning, while also coming back in the fifth for the decisive blow, a grand slam to extend Oregon's lead to 8-2 after five innings. The Ducks, who pounded out 13 hits and lit up consistently good UCSB righthander Shane Bieber for eight runs in five innings, suddenly are a scary club with a chance to climb out rankings on Monday.
7. Mountain West Passing The Eyeball Test
When looking at conferences in the western part of the country, the Pac-12, Big West, and even WCC, first come to mind. But keep an eye on the Mountain West, as this league has several very solid clubs and promises to have quite an intriguing regular season title race.
Mountain West ConferenceThe wacky Mountain West is being put on full display this weekend. Fresno State took a step back two weekends ago by hitting the road and getting swept by upstart Nevada, but is turning the tables this weekend, clinching a home series win over UNLV - which was receiving votes in our top 25 earlier this week - with a 2-1 victory. Fresno State lefthander Dylan Lee was terrific against the Rebels, striking out five, walking one and allowing just a run on three hits in 6 1/3 innings, while reliever Jake Shull took care of business like a stopper is supposed to with two hitless frames to close UNLV out.
Nevada and New Mexico are teams we've talked about, too, while San Diego State improved to 11-1 on Saturday with a 5-1 win and series sweep over San Jose State. The Aztecs got a terrific start from Mark Seyler, who struck out seven, walked just two and allowed a run on two hits in seven innings.
Perhaps I'm a bit ambitious, but I could see the Mountain West being a three-bid league when the dust settles on Selection Monday.
8. Long Beach State Showing Well
For as much grief as head coach Troy Buckley has gotten over the years for failing to turn the Dirtbags into a national power, it must be said that he, for the second-straight season, appears to be doing a very good job.
Long Beach State logoThe Dirtbags played for the Gainesville Regional title last year against College of Charleston, culminating what was a successful season. And without several key players from that team, the Dirtbags surely were expected to take a step back this spring. Well, not so much, at least not yet. Long Beach improved to 7-3 overall after a series-clinching 5-2 win over Wichita State on Saturday.
LBSU righthander Tanner Brown, a 6-foot-4, 180-pounder, struck out five, walked one and allowed just two runs - one earned - on three hits in six innings, while the bullpen did a marvelous job with Austin McGeorge, Logan Lombana and Ty Provencher doing the work in the latter innings. LBSU could still improve at the plate, but sophomore shortstop Garrett Hampson .324/.442/.471 is continuing where he left off last season, and Zack Rivera is leading the team with a .353 batting average.
There's still a long way to go, but it's been a good weekend for the Big West. Cal Poly might not get a game in against TCU because of snow in the Dallas Metroplex, but Cal State Fullerton has a series win over Baylor and the Big 12 and UC Irvine has a series win over Tennessee and the SEC. There is that sore thumb in UCSB, but otherwise, things look good for the league this weekend, and especially The Beach.
9. UAB Off And Running
The Blazers finished last season with 35 wins and second in the Conference USA standings, but with some significant departures, it was expected they might struggle some this season, especially out of the gate early in the season.
UAB head coach Brian Shoop has his club playing well early this season. (UAB)
UAB head coach Brian Shoop has his club playing well early this season. (UAB)
Well, the Blazers have done exactly the opposite. Sure, playing Central Michigan and Savannah State isn't the same as playing a high-profile club in a major conference, but this club has established consistency, and took another step forward Saturday by clinching a home series win over Ohio State with a doubleheader sweep - 3-2 and 8-1.
In the first game, the Blazers leaned on senior righthander Alex Luna. Luna, a skinny 6-foot-5, 204-pounder, struck out four, walked just two and allowed two runs and three hits in 8 1/3 innings, while the Buckeyes wasted a quality start from Tanner Tully, who struck out four and allowed just a run in six innings.
In the second game, it was again about the pitching, but with a little more offensive production. The bottom of the Blazers lineup did some serious damage, with shortstop Adam Smith going 2-for-4 with a triple and three RBIs, and Evan Peterson chipping in a three-hit performance. Meanwhile, on the mound, 6-foot-4, 180-pound, righthander James Naile was nails, striking out six and allowing just a run on four hits in 7 1/3 innings.
We'll know much more about the Blazers when they hit the road to take on Kennesaw State, but Ohio State, a quality club, was a very good first test.
10. Indiana Shows Toughness
Coaches love to see how their teams deal with adversity this early in the season. The Hoosiers were at that point Saturday afternoon after they were stymied in the series opener by College of Charleston ace righthander Taylor Clarke, while also being losers of four of their last five.
Indiana University logoChris Lemonis' Hoosiers didn't score the first three innings against the Cougars, but got into a groove in the middle innings and proceeded to win 15-1 to even the series. Indiana leadoff hitter Casey Rodrigue had an afternoon to remember, going 3-for-6 with a pair of triples and four RBIs, while Will Nolden and Craig Dedelow each knocked in three runs.
Though it didn't matter so much because of the offensive production, Indiana's Christian Morris put together a quality start, striking out three, walking no one and allowing an unearned run on five hits in six innings.
The series finale on Sunday is a big one for both teams.
Five More Things
Georgia's Robert Tyler: It was a double whammy for the Bulldogs on Friday, as Tyler went down with an elbow injury early in his start, and the team ended the night with a tough setback on the road against Georgia Southern. Tyler, though, received some very good news on Saturday. Though the outlook was bleak late Friday night, an MRI on Tyler's arm/elbow showed no structural damage to his UCL, thus he will only miss the amount of time for this elbow tweak to heal and go away. That's huge news for the Bulldogs, who are off to a very solid start, of course making the biggest statement thus far last weekend with a home series win over Florida State.
Louisiana-Monroe's Alex Hermeling: The Warhawks haven't experienced a lot of success the past few seasons, but perhaps things are headed the right direction this spring with the addition of Bruce Peddie as head coach. ULM captured a series win over Sam Houston State by sweeping a pair of games from Sam Houston State, and was led on the mound in one of the games by the 6-foot-5, 230-pound junior righthander. In a 6-0 win over Sam Houston State in one of the two afternoon bouts, Hermeling tossed the first complete game shutout since 2012. Against a potent Bearkats attack, the righty struck out four and allowed just four hits. He also threw 99 pitches, 69 of the for strikes.
Lehigh Throws Combined No-Hitter: What in the world was going on with the Patriot League today between Robinett at Army and the Mountain Hawks' pitching staff? Lehigh swept a pair of games from Iona on Saturday, with two pitchers - Nick Macaione and Kevin Boswick - teaming up to throw a no-hitter in a narrow 2-0 victory, which by the way, went 11 innings. Macaione struck out four in nine innings, while Boswick finished the contest striking out a batter in two innings. In case you were wondering, the Mountain Hawks won in the 11th on a Justin Pacchioli walk-off two-run homer. That shouldn't come as a surprise, as Pacchioli is one of the league's more decorated players entering the season.
Florida's A.J. Puk Shows Us Something: We've been waiting for the imposing lefthander to really show what's he made of, and that time might've come Saturday afternoon in a 14-3 win over Stony Brook. You see, Puk struggled in the first inning, giving up a three-run homer to Johnny Caputo to put the Gators in a tough early hole. However, he got his act together and wound up having a very good start, striking out seven, walking two and allowing just three runs on three hits in 6 2/3 innings. Puk retired 13-straight batters in the contest, giving the Gators plenty of hope he involves into a dominant force.
Louisiana-Lafayette's Robichaux Wins No. 1,000: What a special day it was for the Cajuns long-time head coach. Robichaux and the Cajuns evened up their weekend series on the road against Alabama with a 6-5 triumph. First baseman Greg Davis recorded two doubles in the contest, while catcher Nick Thurman had a huge day at the plate with four hits and two RBIs. Furthermore, it was an important day for Robichaux, who guided the Cajuns to a top-eight national seed last season and one of the best campaigns in school history. Robichaux, of course, guided the Cajuns to their only College World Series appearance in 2000, and has led the program to 10 postseason appearances in 19 campaigns, this being his 20th season at the helm.
D1Baseball Player of the Day
Alex Robinett, rhp, Army
Army Black Knights logoThe Black Knights split a doubleheader with Longwood this afternoon, with the senior righty stepping up in a big way with a complete game no-hitter. Robinett struck out 10 and walked four in the 1-0 victory over the Lancers. He also caused Longwood star outfielder Kyri Washington to go 0-for-4 in the contest, including a strikeout.
D1 - Ten Thoughts: Saturday, Feb. 28
1. Another Terrific Clemson-South Carolina Finale Coming
It wouldn't be the Clemson-South Carolina rivalry without at least something at stake entering the series finale. For the Gamecocks, it's pretty simple: they want nothing more than to extend their continued dominance of the Tigers in the regular season series. Meanwhile, the Tigers would love nothing more than to once and for all shake that South Carolina monkey off their back.
Another big-time atmosphere engulfed downtown Greenville, S.C (Aaron Fitt)
Another big-time atmosphere engulfed downtown Greenville, S.C (Aaron Fitt)
To get to a crucial series finale even, the Gamecocks needed a strong showing Saturday after suffering the first blow in the series opener at Clemson. Saturday, the series shifted to Fluor Field in Greenville, S.C., where lefthander Jack Wynkoop got the team started on a positive note and had a strong start, striking out seven, walking just two and allowing a run on five hits in six innings.
The tone was set in the second inning, though, as South Carolina got a pair of doubles from Connor Bright and Alex Destino, Destino's an RBI double, and Elliott Caldwell added the third run of the inning with an RBI single through the right side to extend South Carolina's lead to 3-0. With Wynkoop in the zone and the Gamecocks in good shape out of the bullpen, that's all they'd need to even the series.
South Carolina righthander Taylor Widener was electric out of the bullpen, sitting in the low-to-mid 90s with his fastball, while also striking out five and walking just one in two hitless frames.
2. Mississippi State Had A Big Day
We've slowly but surely started to hop on the Mississippi State train through the first three weeks of the season. Sure, the Bulldogs were impressive the first two weekends, but that wasn't exactly against the best competition. This weekend, though, the Bulldogs are making a rather bold statement, sitting at 3-0 so far with a pair of wins over a quality Arizona club, along with a single win over Samford.
Mississippi StateMississippi State has shown a lot of balance this weekend. In today's first game, a 6-2 triumph over Arizona, State righthander Austin Sexton, who really blew up over the summer, was terrific, striking out 10, walking no one and allowing just two runs on four hits in 5 2/3 innings. Sexton is the first Bulldogs pitcher since first-round pick Chris Stratton to notch double-digit strikeouts, while also not walking anyone in a start.
Lefthander Lucas Laster was also impressive in an 8-2 win over Samford, like Sexton, not walking anyone, striking out seven and allowing just two runs in 6 1/3 innings. State also received much production at the plate from catcher Cody Walker, who along with Josh Lovelady, have contributed since sophomore catcher Gavin Collins went down with an injury. Just imagine how this team will look when Collins' bat is back in the lineup.
It's still early, but Mississippi State is a strong candidate to make a sizable leap in our Monday rankings, granted the poll mechanics make sense.
3. Kentucky's Kyle Cody Looks The Part
University of Kentucky logoCody and the Wildcats had a tough showing last weekend against UC Santa Barbara, especially the talented righthander, who allowed seven runs in just three innings. But this weekend, the power-armed Cody pieced together an impressive start in a 5-1 win over Nebraska-Omaha.
Cody struck out a career-high nine and walked one in seven hitless innings. He also retired 15-straight hitters to end his outing, throwing 96 pitches, 63 four strikes.
The Wildcats will need Cody to be consistently dominant if they want to make noise in the SEC regular season race.
4. Notre Dame For Real?
Notre Dame logoPerhaps we shouldn't be too surprised given coach Mike Aoki's background and ability to get the most out of his teams, but the Fighting Irish are one of the big surprises early this season, moving to 9-1 on Saturday after an 8-2 win over Mercer. The Irish cranked four homers against the Bears, including two from highly touted second baseman Cavan Biggio, who's now hitting .525/.630/.950 with seven doubles, two triples, two homers and 11 RBIs. Kyle Fiala and Robert Youngdahl also hit homers for the Irish.
We'll find out much more about the Fighting Irish come ACC play, but this team is off to a terrific start with some impressive wins, including a pair of triumphs over Oklahoma on the road to begin the season.
5. Auburn Rolls Over Oklahoma State
There weren't many pumping up the Tigers before the season, but this team had the talent to make some noise both in nonconference and in upcoming SEC play. Well, the Tigers made their first nice statement Saturday afternoon with a 9-2 victory over Oklahoma State to improve to 9-2 overall.
Auburn Tigers logoAuburn designated hitter Hunter Tackett hit a home run, finished 2-for-5 and knocked in two runs, while Anfernee Grier and J.J. Shaffer each finished the contest with three hits. The Tigers also got a studly performance out of the pen from righthander Cole Lipscomb, who was fabulous, striking out eight, walking just one and allowing just a hit in 4 2/3 innings, while the offense touched up Oklahoma State starting pitcher Jon Perrin for four runs on six hits in 4 1/3 innings.
Auburn head coach Sunny Golloway has had plenty of success every step of the way in his coaching career, and he might just be ready to make his move in the SEC.
6. Oregon Getting Cozy With Cuddy
Mark Karaviotis congratulates Brandon Cuddy after he scores while UCSB pitcher Shane Bieber walks back to the mound with his head down. (Shotgun Spratling)
Mark Karaviotis congratulates Brandon Cuddy. (Shotgun Spratling)
Even though the Ducks finished last season with rather respectable offensive numbers, that still was a team you looked at each week and weren't particularly afraid of. Well, this year's 1-9 might be a little different, especially with the addition of someone like 6-foot-2, 215-pound first baseman Brandon Cuddy from Seminole State (Okla.) College.
Cuddy had an incredible afternoon as the Ducks crushed UC Santa Barbara 11-3 to clinch an impressive and crucial road series victory over a good Gauchos club. Cuddy had a day, hitting a two-run triple in the fourth inning, while also coming back in the fifth for the decisive blow, a grand slam to extend Oregon's lead to 8-2 after five innings. The Ducks, who pounded out 13 hits and lit up consistently good UCSB righthander Shane Bieber for eight runs in five innings, suddenly are a scary club with a chance to climb out rankings on Monday.
7. Mountain West Passing The Eyeball Test
When looking at conferences in the western part of the country, the Pac-12, Big West, and even WCC, first come to mind. But keep an eye on the Mountain West, as this league has several very solid clubs and promises to have quite an intriguing regular season title race.
Mountain West ConferenceThe wacky Mountain West is being put on full display this weekend. Fresno State took a step back two weekends ago by hitting the road and getting swept by upstart Nevada, but is turning the tables this weekend, clinching a home series win over UNLV - which was receiving votes in our top 25 earlier this week - with a 2-1 victory. Fresno State lefthander Dylan Lee was terrific against the Rebels, striking out five, walking one and allowing just a run on three hits in 6 1/3 innings, while reliever Jake Shull took care of business like a stopper is supposed to with two hitless frames to close UNLV out.
Nevada and New Mexico are teams we've talked about, too, while San Diego State improved to 11-1 on Saturday with a 5-1 win and series sweep over San Jose State. The Aztecs got a terrific start from Mark Seyler, who struck out seven, walked just two and allowed a run on two hits in seven innings.
Perhaps I'm a bit ambitious, but I could see the Mountain West being a three-bid league when the dust settles on Selection Monday.
8. Long Beach State Showing Well
For as much grief as head coach Troy Buckley has gotten over the years for failing to turn the Dirtbags into a national power, it must be said that he, for the second-straight season, appears to be doing a very good job.
Long Beach State logoThe Dirtbags played for the Gainesville Regional title last year against College of Charleston, culminating what was a successful season. And without several key players from that team, the Dirtbags surely were expected to take a step back this spring. Well, not so much, at least not yet. Long Beach improved to 7-3 overall after a series-clinching 5-2 win over Wichita State on Saturday.
LBSU righthander Tanner Brown, a 6-foot-4, 180-pounder, struck out five, walked one and allowed just two runs - one earned - on three hits in six innings, while the bullpen did a marvelous job with Austin McGeorge, Logan Lombana and Ty Provencher doing the work in the latter innings. LBSU could still improve at the plate, but sophomore shortstop Garrett Hampson .324/.442/.471 is continuing where he left off last season, and Zack Rivera is leading the team with a .353 batting average.
There's still a long way to go, but it's been a good weekend for the Big West. Cal Poly might not get a game in against TCU because of snow in the Dallas Metroplex, but Cal State Fullerton has a series win over Baylor and the Big 12 and UC Irvine has a series win over Tennessee and the SEC. There is that sore thumb in UCSB, but otherwise, things look good for the league this weekend, and especially The Beach.
9. UAB Off And Running
The Blazers finished last season with 35 wins and second in the Conference USA standings, but with some significant departures, it was expected they might struggle some this season, especially out of the gate early in the season.
UAB head coach Brian Shoop has his club playing well early this season. (UAB)
UAB head coach Brian Shoop has his club playing well early this season. (UAB)
Well, the Blazers have done exactly the opposite. Sure, playing Central Michigan and Savannah State isn't the same as playing a high-profile club in a major conference, but this club has established consistency, and took another step forward Saturday by clinching a home series win over Ohio State with a doubleheader sweep - 3-2 and 8-1.
In the first game, the Blazers leaned on senior righthander Alex Luna. Luna, a skinny 6-foot-5, 204-pounder, struck out four, walked just two and allowed two runs and three hits in 8 1/3 innings, while the Buckeyes wasted a quality start from Tanner Tully, who struck out four and allowed just a run in six innings.
In the second game, it was again about the pitching, but with a little more offensive production. The bottom of the Blazers lineup did some serious damage, with shortstop Adam Smith going 2-for-4 with a triple and three RBIs, and Evan Peterson chipping in a three-hit performance. Meanwhile, on the mound, 6-foot-4, 180-pound, righthander James Naile was nails, striking out six and allowing just a run on four hits in 7 1/3 innings.
We'll know much more about the Blazers when they hit the road to take on Kennesaw State, but Ohio State, a quality club, was a very good first test.
10. Indiana Shows Toughness
Coaches love to see how their teams deal with adversity this early in the season. The Hoosiers were at that point Saturday afternoon after they were stymied in the series opener by College of Charleston ace righthander Taylor Clarke, while also being losers of four of their last five.
Indiana University logoChris Lemonis' Hoosiers didn't score the first three innings against the Cougars, but got into a groove in the middle innings and proceeded to win 15-1 to even the series. Indiana leadoff hitter Casey Rodrigue had an afternoon to remember, going 3-for-6 with a pair of triples and four RBIs, while Will Nolden and Craig Dedelow each knocked in three runs.
Though it didn't matter so much because of the offensive production, Indiana's Christian Morris put together a quality start, striking out three, walking no one and allowing an unearned run on five hits in six innings.
The series finale on Sunday is a big one for both teams.
Five More Things
Georgia's Robert Tyler: It was a double whammy for the Bulldogs on Friday, as Tyler went down with an elbow injury early in his start, and the team ended the night with a tough setback on the road against Georgia Southern. Tyler, though, received some very good news on Saturday. Though the outlook was bleak late Friday night, an MRI on Tyler's arm/elbow showed no structural damage to his UCL, thus he will only miss the amount of time for this elbow tweak to heal and go away. That's huge news for the Bulldogs, who are off to a very solid start, of course making the biggest statement thus far last weekend with a home series win over Florida State.
Louisiana-Monroe's Alex Hermeling: The Warhawks haven't experienced a lot of success the past few seasons, but perhaps things are headed the right direction this spring with the addition of Bruce Peddie as head coach. ULM captured a series win over Sam Houston State by sweeping a pair of games from Sam Houston State, and was led on the mound in one of the games by the 6-foot-5, 230-pound junior righthander. In a 6-0 win over Sam Houston State in one of the two afternoon bouts, Hermeling tossed the first complete game shutout since 2012. Against a potent Bearkats attack, the righty struck out four and allowed just four hits. He also threw 99 pitches, 69 of the for strikes.
Lehigh Throws Combined No-Hitter: What in the world was going on with the Patriot League today between Robinett at Army and the Mountain Hawks' pitching staff? Lehigh swept a pair of games from Iona on Saturday, with two pitchers - Nick Macaione and Kevin Boswick - teaming up to throw a no-hitter in a narrow 2-0 victory, which by the way, went 11 innings. Macaione struck out four in nine innings, while Boswick finished the contest striking out a batter in two innings. In case you were wondering, the Mountain Hawks won in the 11th on a Justin Pacchioli walk-off two-run homer. That shouldn't come as a surprise, as Pacchioli is one of the league's more decorated players entering the season.
Florida's A.J. Puk Shows Us Something: We've been waiting for the imposing lefthander to really show what's he made of, and that time might've come Saturday afternoon in a 14-3 win over Stony Brook. You see, Puk struggled in the first inning, giving up a three-run homer to Johnny Caputo to put the Gators in a tough early hole. However, he got his act together and wound up having a very good start, striking out seven, walking two and allowing just three runs on three hits in 6 2/3 innings. Puk retired 13-straight batters in the contest, giving the Gators plenty of hope he involves into a dominant force.
Louisiana-Lafayette's Robichaux Wins No. 1,000: What a special day it was for the Cajuns long-time head coach. Robichaux and the Cajuns evened up their weekend series on the road against Alabama with a 6-5 triumph. First baseman Greg Davis recorded two doubles in the contest, while catcher Nick Thurman had a huge day at the plate with four hits and two RBIs. Furthermore, it was an important day for Robichaux, who guided the Cajuns to a top-eight national seed last season and one of the best campaigns in school history. Robichaux, of course, guided the Cajuns to their only College World Series appearance in 2000, and has led the program to 10 postseason appearances in 19 campaigns, this being his 20th season at the helm.
D1Baseball Player of the Day
Alex Robinett, rhp, Army
Army Black Knights logoThe Black Knights split a doubleheader with Longwood this afternoon, with the senior righty stepping up in a big way with a complete game no-hitter. Robinett struck out 10 and walked four in the 1-0 victory over the Lancers. He also caused Longwood star outfielder Kyri Washington to go 0-for-4 in the contest, including a strikeout.
D1 - Ten Thoughts: Saturday, Feb. 28
CBI: Around the Bases (2/28)
No-Hitters for Army & Lehigh
Virginia tops Seton Hall, Vanderbilt edges Illinois State
Army 1-0, Longwood 0-3
In Morehead City, N.C., Alex Robinett struck out 10 in pitching the fifth no-hitter in school history as Army edged Longwood in the opener of a doubleheader. Alex Jensen had an RBI single for Army (3-2) in the sixth inning off Aaron Myers, who allowed six hits and struck out six in falling to 1-2. In the nightcap, Travis Burnette allowed six hits and struck out five as the Lancers (3-6) earned the split. Brandon Delk went 2 for 4 with an RBI, and Colton Konvicka, who had two stolen bases in the first game, C.J. Roth and Brandon Harvell each scored for Longwood.
Lehigh 2-7, Iona 0-4 (Game 1 - 11 innings)
In Summerville, S.C., Nick Macaione and Kevin Boswick combined on an 11-inning no-hitter as Justin Pacchioli hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the 11th as Lehigh blanked Iona in the first game of a doubleheader. Macaione walked one, hit two batters and struck out four in nine sparkling innings, and Boswick (1-0) walked one and struck out one to complete the gem. Mariano Rivera was just as impressive, allowing three hits, walking one and striking out 13 for the Gaels. In the nightcap, Patrick Donnelly went 2 for 3 with a two RBI, including a solo homer in the sixth inning to break a 3-3 tie as the Mountain Hawks (2-2) completed the sweep.
No. 1 Virginia 4, Seton Hall 1
In Myrtle Beach, S.C., Connor Jones and two relievers held Seton Hall to five hits, and Matt Thaiss went 3 for 4 with his fourth homer and two RBI as Virginia stayed unbeaten. Jones (3-0) allowed three hits, one run and five walks and struck out six in five innings before Kevin Doherty and Josh Sborz (third save) tossed two innings apiece to close out the Pirates (1-4). Pavin Smith (3 for 4, R) and John La Prise added three hits apiece for the Cavaliers (9-0), who own a 1.10 ERA.
No. 2 Vanderbilt 3, Illinois State 2
In Nashville, Tenn., John Kilichowski gave Vanderbilt a strong start, and Philip Pfeifer worked out a big jam in the seventh as the Commodores held off Illinois State. Bryan Reynolds led off the bottom of the first with a double and scored on Dansby Swanson's single, and Will Toffey added a sac fly to make it 2-0 Commodores (8-2) later in the frame. Kilichowski (1-0) allowed two hits and struck out six in 5.1 innings. Pfeifer, who earned his second save, allowed a bases-loaded infield single up the middle from Daniel Dwyer that scored two in the seventh but escaped the jam by getting the next out. Jacob Hendren (1-1) allowed three runs and struck out five in six innings for the Redbirds (4-4).
Columbia 5-7, No. 6 Houston 4-8 (Game 1 - 13 innings)
In Houston, Justin Montemayor's bases-loaded sacrifice fly scored Connor Wong as Houston scored single runs in the seventh, eighth and ninth innings in rallying to beat Columbia in the second game of a doubleheader. The Lions took the first game in 13 innings as Randall Kanemaru singled in a run and Nick Maguire scored on a passed ball. Lane Robinette had two RBI, and Kevin Roy allowed three hits in six scoreless innings for the Lions (1-2). Jacob Campbell went 2 for 3 with two doubles and three RBI - including a three-run double in the eighth that tied the game at 3 - for Houston. In the second game Josh Vidales (3 for 4) had a double, triple and three RBI, and Patrick Weigel (1-0) tossed 2.1 hitless innings to post the win for the Cougars (8-3). David Vandercook homered and drove in two, and Joe Falcone added two hits and two RBI for Columbia.
No. 11 Rice 11-1, Stanford 6-3
In Houston, Tristan Gray went 2 for 3 with a homer and three RBI as Rice claimed the first game of a doubleheader with Stanford. The Cardinal (6-5) captured the second game when Brett Hanewich allowed three hits and one unearned run, and Matt Winaker had two hits and two RBI. Stanford opened the game with three straight hits, and Hanewich made the two runs stick. In the first game, the Owls (7-4) totaled 14 hits, with six starters finishing with two apiece. Ford Stainback had two hits, three runs and an RBI, and Charlie Warren added a pair of hits, two runs and two RBI for Rice. Tommy Edman went 3 for 5 with two hits and two RBI for the Cardinal.
Auburn 9, No. 12 Oklahoma State 2
In Auburn, Ala., Cole Lipscomb allowed one hit and struck out eight in 4.1 scoreless innings of relief, and J.J. Shaffer went 3 for 3 with two RBI as Auburn scored nine runs in its final four at-bats to top Oklahoma State. Hunter Tackett went 2 for 5 with a homer and two RBI, and Anfernee Grier went 3 for 5 with a run for the Tigers, who had 17 hits in winning their seventh straight to improve to 9-2. Dustin Williams went 2 for 3 with an RBI for the Cowboys (9-2).
No. 13 Miami 4, Wright State 3
In Coral Gables, Fla., Willie Abreu singled in the game-winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning as Miami edged Wright State in the last inning for the second straight night. Trailing 3-2 entering the bottom of the ninth, Ricky Eusebio (3 for 4) singled to open the frame and later scored on a wild pitch to tie the game as the Hurricanes (8-3) overcame a 3-1 lead in the final two innings to improve to 7-0 at home. Jesse Scholtens allowed one earned run and eight hits in 5.2 innings, and Mitch Roman went 2 for 4 for the Raiders (4-4).
No. 14 Arizona State 5, Gonzaga 2
In Phoenix, Ryan Kellogg allowed 10 hits and two runs in eight innings as Arizona State slipped past Gonzaga to finish the Phoenix Muni Classic 3-1. Kellogg (3-0) overcame a homer from Mitchell Gonsules on the first pitch of the game. Brian Serven went 3 for 3, and Johnny Sewald had two hits and two runs for the Sun Devils (7-4). Gonsules and Tyler Frost each finished 2 for 4 with a solo homer for the Zags (5-7), who went 1-3 in Phoenix with three close losses.
No. 4 Florida 14, Stony Brook 3
In Gainesville, Fla., Josh Tobias went 5 for 5 with three RBI, and Harrison Bader added two hits, including his fifth homer, and drove in three as the Gators cruised past Stony Brook. Buddy Reed homered and scored three times, and A.J. Puk allowed three hits and three earned runs and struck out seven in a career-best 6.2 innings for the Gators (9-1). Johnny Caputo hit a three-run homer in the first for the Seawolves (2-6).
No. 5 LSU 7-15, Princeton 2-4
In Baton Rouge, La., freshman Alex Lange tossed six scoreless innings, and Mark Laird had four RBI, and Alex Bregman and Jared Foster each drove in three as LSU completed a doubleheader sweep of Princeton. In the first game, Jake Fraley had two triples and three RBI, and Jake Godfrey allowed two unearned runs in 5.2 innings for the Tigers (10-1). Chad Powers had two hits and two RBI for Princeton.
No. 7 UCLA 5, Michigan State 0
In Los Angeles, Grant Watson allowed four hits in seven scoreless innings, and Chris Keck continued his hot start with a double, triple and four RBI as UCLA blanked Michigan State. Keck, who was banged up for much of 2014 and finished with 10 RBI in 34 games, is now slugging .800 and has 18 RBI for the Bruins (9-1). Ty Moore and Kevin Kramer added two hits and two runs apiece for UCLA. The Spartans fell to 3-5.
No. 8 Texas Tech, Sacramento State to play Sunday with no crowds
In Lubbock, Texas, Sacramento State and Texas Tech canceled their doubleheader Saturday because of weather and field conditions. Of note, the teams are scheduled to play Sunday at 11:30 a.m. in a game that is closed to the public because of safety concerns with the seating areas at Dan Law Field from the recent weather and low temperatures. The game-time temperature Sunday is expected to be in the low 40s.
Louisiana 6, Alabama 5
In Hoover, Ala., Louisiana coach Tony Robichaux picked up career win No. 1,000 as Colton Lee shut down Alabama over the final three frames to preserve a win over the Crimson Tide. The Ragin' Cajuns (5-5) scored three times in the seventh inning to overcome a 5-3 deficit, with Nick Thurman (4 for 5, 2 RBI) singling in the go-ahead run. Lee allowed three hits and struck out three to post his second save. Mikey White had a three-run double as Alabama (7-3) scored five times in the fifth inning.
No. 15 Mississippi State 6, Arizona 2
No. 15 Mississippi State 8, Samford 2
In Starkville, Miss., Austin Sexton stuck out 10 in 5.2 innings, and Ross Mitchell kept Arizona off the board over the final 3.1 innings as Mississippi State won the first of two games to stay unbeaten. Wes Rea went 2 for 3 with a double, run and RBI, and Josh Lovelady added two hits, a run and an RBI for the Bulldogs (12-0). Jared Oliva went 2 for 4 with a homer and two RBI for the Wildcats (9-4). In their second game, the Bulldogs scored five times in the first and cruised past Samford. Cody Walker led the way with two hits and three RBI. Heath Quinn went 3 for 5 with two RBI for Samford (3-6).
Rhode Island 6, No. 16 North Carolina 3
In Florence, S.C., Lou Distasio struck out nine and allowed four hits in six scoreless innings, and battery-mate Derek Gardella had two hits and two RBI to lead Rhode Island past North Carolina. Tim Caputo also drove in two, and Matt O'Neil had two hits and two runs for the Rams (1-5). Adrian Chacon had two hits and a run for North Carolina (6-3).
No. 17 Oregon 11, UC Santa Barbara 3
In Goleta, Calif., Brandon Cuddy hit a grand slam and finished 2 for 5 with seven RBI as Oregon beat UCSB for the second straight day. Mitchell Tolman added two hits and three runs, and Mark Karaviotis went 3 for 5 with an RBI for the Ducks (10-1), who finished with 13 hits. David Peterson (1-0) allowed three runs in six innings. The Gauchos fell to 7-3.
Appalachian State 9, No. 18 Maryland 7
In Emerson, Ga., Conner Leonard had three hits and five RBI as Appalachian State built an 8-3 lead and held on to beat Maryland. Grayson Atwood went 4 for 5 with two runs and an RBI, and Michael Pierson added two hits and three runs for ASU (4-4). Jose Cuas had three RBI for Maryland (6-2).
Xavier 2-3, No. 19 Louisville 1-6
In Louisville, Ky., Brad Kirschner tossed six scoreless innings, and Xavier scored two late runs to take down Kyle Funkhouser and Louisville. Rylan Bannon had two hits and a run for the Musketeers (4-5). Funkhouser (1-2) allowed seven hits and struck out seven, but both runs he allowed were unearned. In the nightcap, Devin Hairston's three-run double keyed a four-run eighth inning as the Cardinals (6-4) overcame a 3-2 deficit to avoid a sweep.
CBI: Around the Bases (2/28)
No-Hitters for Army & Lehigh
Virginia tops Seton Hall, Vanderbilt edges Illinois State
Army 1-0, Longwood 0-3
In Morehead City, N.C., Alex Robinett struck out 10 in pitching the fifth no-hitter in school history as Army edged Longwood in the opener of a doubleheader. Alex Jensen had an RBI single for Army (3-2) in the sixth inning off Aaron Myers, who allowed six hits and struck out six in falling to 1-2. In the nightcap, Travis Burnette allowed six hits and struck out five as the Lancers (3-6) earned the split. Brandon Delk went 2 for 4 with an RBI, and Colton Konvicka, who had two stolen bases in the first game, C.J. Roth and Brandon Harvell each scored for Longwood.
Lehigh 2-7, Iona 0-4 (Game 1 - 11 innings)
In Summerville, S.C., Nick Macaione and Kevin Boswick combined on an 11-inning no-hitter as Justin Pacchioli hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the 11th as Lehigh blanked Iona in the first game of a doubleheader. Macaione walked one, hit two batters and struck out four in nine sparkling innings, and Boswick (1-0) walked one and struck out one to complete the gem. Mariano Rivera was just as impressive, allowing three hits, walking one and striking out 13 for the Gaels. In the nightcap, Patrick Donnelly went 2 for 3 with a two RBI, including a solo homer in the sixth inning to break a 3-3 tie as the Mountain Hawks (2-2) completed the sweep.
No. 1 Virginia 4, Seton Hall 1
In Myrtle Beach, S.C., Connor Jones and two relievers held Seton Hall to five hits, and Matt Thaiss went 3 for 4 with his fourth homer and two RBI as Virginia stayed unbeaten. Jones (3-0) allowed three hits, one run and five walks and struck out six in five innings before Kevin Doherty and Josh Sborz (third save) tossed two innings apiece to close out the Pirates (1-4). Pavin Smith (3 for 4, R) and John La Prise added three hits apiece for the Cavaliers (9-0), who own a 1.10 ERA.
No. 2 Vanderbilt 3, Illinois State 2
In Nashville, Tenn., John Kilichowski gave Vanderbilt a strong start, and Philip Pfeifer worked out a big jam in the seventh as the Commodores held off Illinois State. Bryan Reynolds led off the bottom of the first with a double and scored on Dansby Swanson's single, and Will Toffey added a sac fly to make it 2-0 Commodores (8-2) later in the frame. Kilichowski (1-0) allowed two hits and struck out six in 5.1 innings. Pfeifer, who earned his second save, allowed a bases-loaded infield single up the middle from Daniel Dwyer that scored two in the seventh but escaped the jam by getting the next out. Jacob Hendren (1-1) allowed three runs and struck out five in six innings for the Redbirds (4-4).
Columbia 5-7, No. 6 Houston 4-8 (Game 1 - 13 innings)
In Houston, Justin Montemayor's bases-loaded sacrifice fly scored Connor Wong as Houston scored single runs in the seventh, eighth and ninth innings in rallying to beat Columbia in the second game of a doubleheader. The Lions took the first game in 13 innings as Randall Kanemaru singled in a run and Nick Maguire scored on a passed ball. Lane Robinette had two RBI, and Kevin Roy allowed three hits in six scoreless innings for the Lions (1-2). Jacob Campbell went 2 for 3 with two doubles and three RBI - including a three-run double in the eighth that tied the game at 3 - for Houston. In the second game Josh Vidales (3 for 4) had a double, triple and three RBI, and Patrick Weigel (1-0) tossed 2.1 hitless innings to post the win for the Cougars (8-3). David Vandercook homered and drove in two, and Joe Falcone added two hits and two RBI for Columbia.
No. 11 Rice 11-1, Stanford 6-3
In Houston, Tristan Gray went 2 for 3 with a homer and three RBI as Rice claimed the first game of a doubleheader with Stanford. The Cardinal (6-5) captured the second game when Brett Hanewich allowed three hits and one unearned run, and Matt Winaker had two hits and two RBI. Stanford opened the game with three straight hits, and Hanewich made the two runs stick. In the first game, the Owls (7-4) totaled 14 hits, with six starters finishing with two apiece. Ford Stainback had two hits, three runs and an RBI, and Charlie Warren added a pair of hits, two runs and two RBI for Rice. Tommy Edman went 3 for 5 with two hits and two RBI for the Cardinal.
Auburn 9, No. 12 Oklahoma State 2
In Auburn, Ala., Cole Lipscomb allowed one hit and struck out eight in 4.1 scoreless innings of relief, and J.J. Shaffer went 3 for 3 with two RBI as Auburn scored nine runs in its final four at-bats to top Oklahoma State. Hunter Tackett went 2 for 5 with a homer and two RBI, and Anfernee Grier went 3 for 5 with a run for the Tigers, who had 17 hits in winning their seventh straight to improve to 9-2. Dustin Williams went 2 for 3 with an RBI for the Cowboys (9-2).
No. 13 Miami 4, Wright State 3
In Coral Gables, Fla., Willie Abreu singled in the game-winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning as Miami edged Wright State in the last inning for the second straight night. Trailing 3-2 entering the bottom of the ninth, Ricky Eusebio (3 for 4) singled to open the frame and later scored on a wild pitch to tie the game as the Hurricanes (8-3) overcame a 3-1 lead in the final two innings to improve to 7-0 at home. Jesse Scholtens allowed one earned run and eight hits in 5.2 innings, and Mitch Roman went 2 for 4 for the Raiders (4-4).
No. 14 Arizona State 5, Gonzaga 2
In Phoenix, Ryan Kellogg allowed 10 hits and two runs in eight innings as Arizona State slipped past Gonzaga to finish the Phoenix Muni Classic 3-1. Kellogg (3-0) overcame a homer from Mitchell Gonsules on the first pitch of the game. Brian Serven went 3 for 3, and Johnny Sewald had two hits and two runs for the Sun Devils (7-4). Gonsules and Tyler Frost each finished 2 for 4 with a solo homer for the Zags (5-7), who went 1-3 in Phoenix with three close losses.
No. 4 Florida 14, Stony Brook 3
In Gainesville, Fla., Josh Tobias went 5 for 5 with three RBI, and Harrison Bader added two hits, including his fifth homer, and drove in three as the Gators cruised past Stony Brook. Buddy Reed homered and scored three times, and A.J. Puk allowed three hits and three earned runs and struck out seven in a career-best 6.2 innings for the Gators (9-1). Johnny Caputo hit a three-run homer in the first for the Seawolves (2-6).
No. 5 LSU 7-15, Princeton 2-4
In Baton Rouge, La., freshman Alex Lange tossed six scoreless innings, and Mark Laird had four RBI, and Alex Bregman and Jared Foster each drove in three as LSU completed a doubleheader sweep of Princeton. In the first game, Jake Fraley had two triples and three RBI, and Jake Godfrey allowed two unearned runs in 5.2 innings for the Tigers (10-1). Chad Powers had two hits and two RBI for Princeton.
No. 7 UCLA 5, Michigan State 0
In Los Angeles, Grant Watson allowed four hits in seven scoreless innings, and Chris Keck continued his hot start with a double, triple and four RBI as UCLA blanked Michigan State. Keck, who was banged up for much of 2014 and finished with 10 RBI in 34 games, is now slugging .800 and has 18 RBI for the Bruins (9-1). Ty Moore and Kevin Kramer added two hits and two runs apiece for UCLA. The Spartans fell to 3-5.
No. 8 Texas Tech, Sacramento State to play Sunday with no crowds
In Lubbock, Texas, Sacramento State and Texas Tech canceled their doubleheader Saturday because of weather and field conditions. Of note, the teams are scheduled to play Sunday at 11:30 a.m. in a game that is closed to the public because of safety concerns with the seating areas at Dan Law Field from the recent weather and low temperatures. The game-time temperature Sunday is expected to be in the low 40s.
Louisiana 6, Alabama 5
In Hoover, Ala., Louisiana coach Tony Robichaux picked up career win No. 1,000 as Colton Lee shut down Alabama over the final three frames to preserve a win over the Crimson Tide. The Ragin' Cajuns (5-5) scored three times in the seventh inning to overcome a 5-3 deficit, with Nick Thurman (4 for 5, 2 RBI) singling in the go-ahead run. Lee allowed three hits and struck out three to post his second save. Mikey White had a three-run double as Alabama (7-3) scored five times in the fifth inning.
No. 15 Mississippi State 6, Arizona 2
No. 15 Mississippi State 8, Samford 2
In Starkville, Miss., Austin Sexton stuck out 10 in 5.2 innings, and Ross Mitchell kept Arizona off the board over the final 3.1 innings as Mississippi State won the first of two games to stay unbeaten. Wes Rea went 2 for 3 with a double, run and RBI, and Josh Lovelady added two hits, a run and an RBI for the Bulldogs (12-0). Jared Oliva went 2 for 4 with a homer and two RBI for the Wildcats (9-4). In their second game, the Bulldogs scored five times in the first and cruised past Samford. Cody Walker led the way with two hits and three RBI. Heath Quinn went 3 for 5 with two RBI for Samford (3-6).
Rhode Island 6, No. 16 North Carolina 3
In Florence, S.C., Lou Distasio struck out nine and allowed four hits in six scoreless innings, and battery-mate Derek Gardella had two hits and two RBI to lead Rhode Island past North Carolina. Tim Caputo also drove in two, and Matt O'Neil had two hits and two runs for the Rams (1-5). Adrian Chacon had two hits and a run for North Carolina (6-3).
No. 17 Oregon 11, UC Santa Barbara 3
In Goleta, Calif., Brandon Cuddy hit a grand slam and finished 2 for 5 with seven RBI as Oregon beat UCSB for the second straight day. Mitchell Tolman added two hits and three runs, and Mark Karaviotis went 3 for 5 with an RBI for the Ducks (10-1), who finished with 13 hits. David Peterson (1-0) allowed three runs in six innings. The Gauchos fell to 7-3.
Appalachian State 9, No. 18 Maryland 7
In Emerson, Ga., Conner Leonard had three hits and five RBI as Appalachian State built an 8-3 lead and held on to beat Maryland. Grayson Atwood went 4 for 5 with two runs and an RBI, and Michael Pierson added two hits and three runs for ASU (4-4). Jose Cuas had three RBI for Maryland (6-2).
Xavier 2-3, No. 19 Louisville 1-6
In Louisville, Ky., Brad Kirschner tossed six scoreless innings, and Xavier scored two late runs to take down Kyle Funkhouser and Louisville. Rylan Bannon had two hits and a run for the Musketeers (4-5). Funkhouser (1-2) allowed seven hits and struck out seven, but both runs he allowed were unearned. In the nightcap, Devin Hairston's three-run double keyed a four-run eighth inning as the Cardinals (6-4) overcame a 3-2 deficit to avoid a sweep.
CBI: Around the Bases (2/28)
BA - Saturday Roundup: Ducks Pull Away From UCSB
Hit the link.
BA - Saturday Roundup: Ducks Pull Away From UCSB
Hit the link.
BA - Saturday Roundup: Ducks Pull Away From UCSB
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