When I checked out Bob Hunter's Rumblings in today's Dispatch it was great to see this as the lead note in his column...
The Greater Columbus Sports Commission plans to meet with Big Ten officials late this summer and pitch the idea of Columbus playing host to the conference baseball tournament in the new Huntington Park.
Commission executive director Linda Logan and Clippers general manager Ken Schnacke were in Oklahoma City for the Big 12 tournament last week to see how that tournament is run, in preparation for what Logan hopes will be an offer that Big Ten officials can't refuse.
"We've been what I call 'flirting' with them for the past year," Logan said. "Big Ten baseball coaches would like to do it at a predetermined site and build it. The administrators probably aren't quite there yet. We have to overcome some obstacles, but if we're able to put together an attractive package…"
As it stands, the conference regular-season champion plays host to the tournament; that means sometimes the host team doesn't find it will have the event until about five days before. Using a predetermined site would allow for sponsorships, better travel arrangements and bigger crowds.
Battle Creek, Mich., was host of the tournament in 1993-94, the only time since the event started in 1981 that it was held at a neutral site.
Logan said tournament play at Huntington Park could begin as soon as next year. "A lot has to happen," she said, "but we're up for the challenge."
I guess if you can't win the league for the right to be the host you might as well endorse a plan that would bring the tournament to your own backyard.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Monday, May 26, 2008
NCAA Field Announced
Only one Big Ten team got in the NCAA tournament as expected. Michigan is in and will be the No. 2 regional seed and will welcome Arizona as the top seed as well as Kentucky and Eastern Michigan to Ray Fisher Stadium this weekend. The Wovlerines will play Kentucky in their first game on Saturday. Arizona meets Eastern Michigan. The winner of the four-team, double-elimination regional will face the winner of the Coral Gables Regional (Miami/Fla., Missouri, Mississippi and Bethune Cookman).
NCAA Tournament Bracket
I know there was a lot of discussion by Purdue fans thinking they would get in, but you need a much better resume to make it in. The program has been making great strides the last few seasons but is not quite there yet. It would have been great to have seen them surprise Michigan this past weekend so the Big Ten could have gotten two teams in. Instead they go from three teams in last season to just one.
Michigan is the first Big Ten team to play host to a regional since Ohio State hosted in 2001. I wonder if they can get past Arizona and likely Miami. That is a tall order.
I was disappointed that two-time defending champion Oregon State did not get in. Of course a 28-24 overall record won't help much, but the still managed some impressive wins. It is the first champion to in the tournament since Georgia did not make the 1991 field. I was upset to see Arkansas get the nod. Ohio State had them on the ropes in College Station and I wasn't overly impressed with them. I have always said you should have to play in your conference tournament to qualify for the NCAA tournament. Arkansas did not qualify for the SEC tournament.
I am always glad to see Rice make the field. I spent the early part of my career in sports information working with the Owls and have great respect for their coach Wayne Graham. They go in as the No. 6 national seed. I am glad their 2-and-out effort in the Conference USA tournament didn't cost them a national seed. Clemson, another one of my former schools, did not get in this year for the first time in a very long time.
Eight teams from Texas qualified for the tournament. Rice and Texas A&M will play host to regionals. Hopefully I can make it out to see a few college games this weekend.
I'd love to hear what you have to say about the NCAA tournament selections, how you think Michigan will do and which team you think will win the championship.
NCAA Tournament Bracket
I know there was a lot of discussion by Purdue fans thinking they would get in, but you need a much better resume to make it in. The program has been making great strides the last few seasons but is not quite there yet. It would have been great to have seen them surprise Michigan this past weekend so the Big Ten could have gotten two teams in. Instead they go from three teams in last season to just one.
Michigan is the first Big Ten team to play host to a regional since Ohio State hosted in 2001. I wonder if they can get past Arizona and likely Miami. That is a tall order.
I was disappointed that two-time defending champion Oregon State did not get in. Of course a 28-24 overall record won't help much, but the still managed some impressive wins. It is the first champion to in the tournament since Georgia did not make the 1991 field. I was upset to see Arkansas get the nod. Ohio State had them on the ropes in College Station and I wasn't overly impressed with them. I have always said you should have to play in your conference tournament to qualify for the NCAA tournament. Arkansas did not qualify for the SEC tournament.
I am always glad to see Rice make the field. I spent the early part of my career in sports information working with the Owls and have great respect for their coach Wayne Graham. They go in as the No. 6 national seed. I am glad their 2-and-out effort in the Conference USA tournament didn't cost them a national seed. Clemson, another one of my former schools, did not get in this year for the first time in a very long time.
Eight teams from Texas qualified for the tournament. Rice and Texas A&M will play host to regionals. Hopefully I can make it out to see a few college games this weekend.
I'd love to hear what you have to say about the NCAA tournament selections, how you think Michigan will do and which team you think will win the championship.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Kovanda on All-Tourney Team
Ohio State second baseman Cory Kovanda has been named to the Big Ten All-Tournament Team. Kovanda was 3-for-7 in the Buckeyes' two games in Ann Arbor. He was 1-for-3 in the opener against Illinois and then was 2-for-4 with one RBI and two runs scored vs. Indiana. His sacrifice fly in the bottom of the eighth tied the game, 8-8. Ohio State ended up losing 10-8 in 10 innings. A loss that ended the season.
The Big Ten is likely a one-bid league this season. Michigan won both the regular season and tournament titles after coming back from a 2-0 hole to beat Purdue 3-2 Saturday night.
We'll find out for sure Monday at 12:30 p.m., ET, when the 64-team NCAA tournament field is announced on ESPN.
The Big Ten is likely a one-bid league this season. Michigan won both the regular season and tournament titles after coming back from a 2-0 hole to beat Purdue 3-2 Saturday night.
We'll find out for sure Monday at 12:30 p.m., ET, when the 64-team NCAA tournament field is announced on ESPN.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Season Over
Indiana scored twice in the top of the 10th inning to beat Ohio State 10-8 Thursday, eliminating the Buckeyes from the Big Ten tournament and ending their season (Box Score). It was the first ever win by the Hoosiers against the Buckeyes in four tournament games.
Despite five solid outings, OSU freshman Alex Wimmers hit the first batter of the 10th and a bunt moved him over. Buckeye skipper Bob Todd brought in closer Eric Best. After a fly out moved a runner to third, he gave up the lead on a double by Andrew Means and a single by Chris Hervey added another insurance run.
The Buckeyes went quietly in the bottom of the inning.
Ohio State trailed early in the game and was able to tie it in the eighth to force extra innings after failing to score with one out and the bases loaded in the ninth.
Ohio State found themselves in a 4-0 hole to start the game and Indiana added another run in the second before the Buckeyes got two back in the bottom of the inning. The Scarlet and Gray took a 6-5 lead in the third inning with a four spot thanks to RBI by Dan Burkhart, Tyler Engle and Tony Kennedy. The first run of the inning scored on an error.
The lead was short-lived as the Hoosiers came back with three runs in the fourth. Ohio State put another run on the board in the fifth and left the bases loaded, yet trailed by an 8-7 score.
Jake Hale got the start and was less than stellar. He pitched four innings and allowed eight runs (only two earned) on 11 hits. He struck out three and did not walk a batter before handing over the Buckeyes' chances to Wimmers.
Wimmers pitched well, getting out of trouble in the fifth, sixth and eighth innings. He retired the batters in order in the seventh and kept the Hoosiers scoreless in his 5.1 innings. He allowed two hits, walked two and fanned two yet kept his team within striking distance. It is a shame he had to get the loss. Best replaced him with one on and one out in the top of the 10th.
Cory Kovanda's sacrifice plated Justin Miller to tie the game in the eighth, but the Buckeyes left two runners on, including Burkhart at third.
Kennedy led off the bottom of the ninth with a single to left. Hurley's sac bunt moved Kennedy into scoring position and then the Hoosiers intentionally walked J.B. Shuck, putting runners at first and second with one out for Miller, who drew a walk to load the bases.
Ryan Dew, who was hitting .400 with the bases loaded and .346 with runners in scoring position, was brought in to pinch hit for Meade and grounded into an inning-ending 4-6-3 double play.
Tony Kennedy and Ryan Meade each had three hits to lead the Buckeyes, which also had multiple hits from Kovanda and Burkhart. Kennedy drove in three runs. Ohio State finished the game with 12 hits and walked 11 times. Buckeye pitching allowed 15 hits and walked just two.
It was a sloppy game with seven errors between the squads, including five by the Hoosiers.
Indiana was hot heading into the tournament, having won its last seven games and 10 of their previous 13. Even so, I never thought this game would be close. I certainly did not see the season ending today.
The-Ozone.net Photo Gallery
Columbus Dispatch Wire Report
Ohio State finished a disappointing 30-26. You have to look back to 1999 when the Buckeyes last went 0-2 in the Big Ten Tournament. Of course, that season fans didn't mind as much since they hosted a regional and super regional and came within one game of advancing to the College World Series.
Despite five solid outings, OSU freshman Alex Wimmers hit the first batter of the 10th and a bunt moved him over. Buckeye skipper Bob Todd brought in closer Eric Best. After a fly out moved a runner to third, he gave up the lead on a double by Andrew Means and a single by Chris Hervey added another insurance run.
The Buckeyes went quietly in the bottom of the inning.
Ohio State trailed early in the game and was able to tie it in the eighth to force extra innings after failing to score with one out and the bases loaded in the ninth.
Ohio State found themselves in a 4-0 hole to start the game and Indiana added another run in the second before the Buckeyes got two back in the bottom of the inning. The Scarlet and Gray took a 6-5 lead in the third inning with a four spot thanks to RBI by Dan Burkhart, Tyler Engle and Tony Kennedy. The first run of the inning scored on an error.
The lead was short-lived as the Hoosiers came back with three runs in the fourth. Ohio State put another run on the board in the fifth and left the bases loaded, yet trailed by an 8-7 score.
Jake Hale got the start and was less than stellar. He pitched four innings and allowed eight runs (only two earned) on 11 hits. He struck out three and did not walk a batter before handing over the Buckeyes' chances to Wimmers.
Wimmers pitched well, getting out of trouble in the fifth, sixth and eighth innings. He retired the batters in order in the seventh and kept the Hoosiers scoreless in his 5.1 innings. He allowed two hits, walked two and fanned two yet kept his team within striking distance. It is a shame he had to get the loss. Best replaced him with one on and one out in the top of the 10th.
Cory Kovanda's sacrifice plated Justin Miller to tie the game in the eighth, but the Buckeyes left two runners on, including Burkhart at third.
Kennedy led off the bottom of the ninth with a single to left. Hurley's sac bunt moved Kennedy into scoring position and then the Hoosiers intentionally walked J.B. Shuck, putting runners at first and second with one out for Miller, who drew a walk to load the bases.
Ryan Dew, who was hitting .400 with the bases loaded and .346 with runners in scoring position, was brought in to pinch hit for Meade and grounded into an inning-ending 4-6-3 double play.
Tony Kennedy and Ryan Meade each had three hits to lead the Buckeyes, which also had multiple hits from Kovanda and Burkhart. Kennedy drove in three runs. Ohio State finished the game with 12 hits and walked 11 times. Buckeye pitching allowed 15 hits and walked just two.
It was a sloppy game with seven errors between the squads, including five by the Hoosiers.
Indiana was hot heading into the tournament, having won its last seven games and 10 of their previous 13. Even so, I never thought this game would be close. I certainly did not see the season ending today.
The-Ozone.net Photo Gallery
Columbus Dispatch Wire Report
Ohio State finished a disappointing 30-26. You have to look back to 1999 when the Buckeyes last went 0-2 in the Big Ten Tournament. Of course, that season fans didn't mind as much since they hosted a regional and super regional and came within one game of advancing to the College World Series.
Why We Watch
Yeah, as much as I was hoping to see the magic return for Ohio State in the Big Ten Tournament like seasons past, the chances appear to be slim, but they are not out yet.
You have to go back to 1995 to see the Buckeyes rebound from a loss in the opener to win the championships, but that was back when the tourney field was just four teams.They have never lost the opener to come back and claim the title in a six-team tourney. They came close though in 2004. After losing 10-4 to Michigan, Ohio State roared back to force a second championship game vs. Minnesota before ultimately losing.
That comeback will keep me tuned in to see what happens the rest of the way.
Go Bucks!
You have to go back to 1995 to see the Buckeyes rebound from a loss in the opener to win the championships, but that was back when the tourney field was just four teams.They have never lost the opener to come back and claim the title in a six-team tourney. They came close though in 2004. After losing 10-4 to Michigan, Ohio State roared back to force a second championship game vs. Minnesota before ultimately losing.
That comeback will keep me tuned in to see what happens the rest of the way.
Go Bucks!
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
On to the Loser's Bracket
Illinois scored the go-ahead run in the bottom of the seventh inning and held on to defeat Ohio State, 3-2, in the opening game of the 2008 Big Ten Tournament (Box Score). The Buckeyes head to the loser's bracket and will play again Thursday at 12:05 p.m. against sixth-seeded Indiana, which lost 6-1 to third-seeded Penn State (Box Score).
Illinois scored an unearned run in the bottom of the first. Catcher Dan Burkhart's throwing error trying to nab Kyle Hudson on his steal of second allowed him to reach third. He scored on a sacrifice fly by Brandon Wikoff.
Burkhart made amends in the top of the second when he drove in Cory Kovanda and Zach Hurley with a two-out double to left center to move the Buckeyes in front 2-1. Both runs were unearned.
Illinois tied it up again in the bottom of the third and it remained that way until Joe Bonadonna hit a solo home run in the seventh to lift his team to victory. The Fighting Illini also got a complete game from starter Kevin Manson.
Ryan Dew delivered a lead-off pinch-hit single to start the ninth, but J.B. Shuck hit into a double play and Justin Miller, who needed a hit in his final at bat to extend his 14-game hit streak, flied out to end the game. Dew's single was just the fourth hit of the game for the Buckeyes. Other hits came from Hurley, Kovanda and Burkhart, who finished the game with a pair of RBI. The four hits represented a season low.
Fifth-year senior and three-time captain Dan DeLucia (who is an OSU finalist for the Big Ten Medal of Honor) pitched four innings and allowed two runs (one earned) on five hits in what could be his final outing in a Buckeye uniform. He walked three and struck out three before the coaching staff went to Dean Wolosiansky, who pitched 3.0 innings and allowed the go-ahead run in the seventh. He allowed five hits before handing the eighth inning to Eric Best.
The trio combined to allow 11 hits in an incredibly tight ball game. Wikoff, Aaron Johnson and Ryan Hastings each had two hits for the Illini.
Jake Hale is expected to start Thursday for Ohio State vs. Indiana. The Buckeyes and Hoosiers did not meet in 2008.
Don't miss Big Ten Tournament coverage from The-Ozone.net: Recap and Photo Gallery.
Illinois scored an unearned run in the bottom of the first. Catcher Dan Burkhart's throwing error trying to nab Kyle Hudson on his steal of second allowed him to reach third. He scored on a sacrifice fly by Brandon Wikoff.
Burkhart made amends in the top of the second when he drove in Cory Kovanda and Zach Hurley with a two-out double to left center to move the Buckeyes in front 2-1. Both runs were unearned.
Illinois tied it up again in the bottom of the third and it remained that way until Joe Bonadonna hit a solo home run in the seventh to lift his team to victory. The Fighting Illini also got a complete game from starter Kevin Manson.
Ryan Dew delivered a lead-off pinch-hit single to start the ninth, but J.B. Shuck hit into a double play and Justin Miller, who needed a hit in his final at bat to extend his 14-game hit streak, flied out to end the game. Dew's single was just the fourth hit of the game for the Buckeyes. Other hits came from Hurley, Kovanda and Burkhart, who finished the game with a pair of RBI. The four hits represented a season low.
Fifth-year senior and three-time captain Dan DeLucia (who is an OSU finalist for the Big Ten Medal of Honor) pitched four innings and allowed two runs (one earned) on five hits in what could be his final outing in a Buckeye uniform. He walked three and struck out three before the coaching staff went to Dean Wolosiansky, who pitched 3.0 innings and allowed the go-ahead run in the seventh. He allowed five hits before handing the eighth inning to Eric Best.
The trio combined to allow 11 hits in an incredibly tight ball game. Wikoff, Aaron Johnson and Ryan Hastings each had two hits for the Illini.
Jake Hale is expected to start Thursday for Ohio State vs. Indiana. The Buckeyes and Hoosiers did not meet in 2008.
Don't miss Big Ten Tournament coverage from The-Ozone.net: Recap and Photo Gallery.
Second Chance
The Columbus Dispatch actually had an article today about Ohio State baseball. The story is about how the team is in familiar ground going in as the fifth seed. The Buckeyes have won two of the last three Big Ten tournaments as the fifth or sixth seed. They have won six tournaments since 2002.
Here is the Tournament at a Glance. Wish they were sending a reporter to Ann Arbor.
"It has been a challenging year," coach Bob Todd said. "We've got to approach the tournament as this being our second chance. For us to win this tournament, we've got to have all phases of our game working."
Here is the Tournament at a Glance. Wish they were sending a reporter to Ann Arbor.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Screwed
The All-Big Ten teams have been announced and well, the Buckeyes didn't fare too well. We have to remember we were fifth in the final standings, yet somehow I feel slighted.
Jake Hale and Dean Wolosiansky earned second team honors while J.B. Shuck was named to the third team as both a pitcher and an outfielder. Dan DeLucia was annual Sportsmanship Award winner from Ohio State. Congrats are in order for these guys, but...
Justin Miller got screwed... nothing. I just don't understand it! Let The Buckeye Nine know what you think. Here is the Ohio State release that was a lot more diplomatic than this post.
Click here for the official Big Ten release. These awards are voted on by Big Ten coaches.
Jake Hale and Dean Wolosiansky earned second team honors while J.B. Shuck was named to the third team as both a pitcher and an outfielder. Dan DeLucia was annual Sportsmanship Award winner from Ohio State. Congrats are in order for these guys, but...
Justin Miller got screwed... nothing. I just don't understand it! Let The Buckeye Nine know what you think. Here is the Ohio State release that was a lot more diplomatic than this post.
Click here for the official Big Ten release. These awards are voted on by Big Ten coaches.
Getting Ready for the Tourney
The team is on its way to Ann Arbor, Mich., today for the 2008 Big Ten Baseball Tournament which gets underway Wednesday at Ray Fisher Stadium. The team will practice this afternoon for its opening-round game vs. Illinois tomorrow at 12:05 p.m. Here is the Big Ten preview for the tournament.
The weekly OSU news release that just arrived a few moments ago did not indicate a starting rotation.
Tournament Schedule:
Wednesday, May 21
Game 1 -- (5) Ohio State vs. (4) Illinois, 12:05 p.m.
Game 2 -- (6) Indiana vs. (3) Penn State, 3:35 p.m.
Thursday, May 22
Game 3 -- Game 1 loser vs. Game 2 loser, 12:05 p.m.
Game 4 -- Higher seed, Game 1/2 winner vs. (2) Purdue, 3:35 p.m.
Game 5 -- Lower seed, Game 1/2 winner vs. (1) Michigan, 7:05 p.m.
Friday, May 23
Game 6 -- Game 3 winner vs. Lower seed, Game 4/5 loser, 12:05 p.m.*
Game 7 -- Game 6 winner vs. Higher seed, Game 4/5 loser, 3:35 p.m.*
Game 8 -- Game 4 winner vs. Game 5 winner, 7:05 p.m.*
Saturday, May 24
Game 9 -- Game 7 winner vs. Game 8 loser, 12:05 p.m.*
Game 10 -- Game 8 winner vs. Game 9 winner, 3:35 p.m.*
Sunday, May 25
Game 11 -- Game 8 winner vs. Game 9 winner (if nec.). 12:05 p.m.*
All times Eastern; The Big Ten Network will televise all tournament games scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. XM Radio will carry games 8, 9, 10 and 11 on XM Channel 196.
Don't miss The-Ozone.net's tournament preview. Buckeye Sports Bulletin also previewed the field and here is an OSU preview from UWeekly.
Also, the official Web site for Michigan's athletic department set up a page for the Big Ten Tournament.
The weekly OSU news release that just arrived a few moments ago did not indicate a starting rotation.
Tournament Schedule:
Wednesday, May 21
Game 1 -- (5) Ohio State vs. (4) Illinois, 12:05 p.m.
Game 2 -- (6) Indiana vs. (3) Penn State, 3:35 p.m.
Thursday, May 22
Game 3 -- Game 1 loser vs. Game 2 loser, 12:05 p.m.
Game 4 -- Higher seed, Game 1/2 winner vs. (2) Purdue, 3:35 p.m.
Game 5 -- Lower seed, Game 1/2 winner vs. (1) Michigan, 7:05 p.m.
Friday, May 23
Game 6 -- Game 3 winner vs. Lower seed, Game 4/5 loser, 12:05 p.m.*
Game 7 -- Game 6 winner vs. Higher seed, Game 4/5 loser, 3:35 p.m.*
Game 8 -- Game 4 winner vs. Game 5 winner, 7:05 p.m.*
Saturday, May 24
Game 9 -- Game 7 winner vs. Game 8 loser, 12:05 p.m.*
Game 10 -- Game 8 winner vs. Game 9 winner, 3:35 p.m.*
Sunday, May 25
Game 11 -- Game 8 winner vs. Game 9 winner (if nec.). 12:05 p.m.*
All times Eastern; The Big Ten Network will televise all tournament games scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. XM Radio will carry games 8, 9, 10 and 11 on XM Channel 196.
Don't miss The-Ozone.net's tournament preview. Buckeye Sports Bulletin also previewed the field and here is an OSU preview from UWeekly.
Also, the official Web site for Michigan's athletic department set up a page for the Big Ten Tournament.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
OSU Won Titles in Ann Arbor in 1997 and 2007
From OhioStateBuckeyes.com...
* Ohio State won Big Ten tournament in 1997 and 2007 at Ann Arbor.
* This is the second consecutive year that Ohio State has finished 15-15 in the Big Ten and had to earn its spot in the Big Ten tournament on the last day of the regular season.
* Ohio State has made the Big Ten tournament 20 out of coach Bob Todd’s 21 seasons as coach. * No team has been to more tournaments in that stretch than Ohio State and no team has won more tournaments than Ohio State’s eight, including last year.
* Coach Todd has now coached 24 consecutive teams – dating back to his second year as head coach at Kent State – to .500 or better conference records.
* All 21 of coach Todd’s Ohio State teams have .500 or better records in the Big Ten.
* Ohio State’s 30-win season is the 23rd consecutive such season for a coach Todd team.
* Ohio State won Big Ten tournament in 1997 and 2007 at Ann Arbor.
* This is the second consecutive year that Ohio State has finished 15-15 in the Big Ten and had to earn its spot in the Big Ten tournament on the last day of the regular season.
* Ohio State has made the Big Ten tournament 20 out of coach Bob Todd’s 21 seasons as coach. * No team has been to more tournaments in that stretch than Ohio State and no team has won more tournaments than Ohio State’s eight, including last year.
* Coach Todd has now coached 24 consecutive teams – dating back to his second year as head coach at Kent State – to .500 or better conference records.
* All 21 of coach Todd’s Ohio State teams have .500 or better records in the Big Ten.
* Ohio State’s 30-win season is the 23rd consecutive such season for a coach Todd team.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Going for Record Ninth Tourney Win
The Buckeyes celebrate after winning the Big Ten Tournament Championship last year in Ann Arbor. Photo by Chris Webb.Ohio State begins its quest for a ninth Big Ten title Wednesday in Ann Arbor. The fifth-seeded Buckeyes will play fourth-seeded Illinois in the first game of the Big Ten Tournament. First pitch will be at 12:05 p.m., ET. Michigan is the top seed followed by Purdue as the No. 2. Penn State moved into the No. 3 slot for the second consecutive season and will face No. 6 seed Indiana in Wednesday's second game at 3:35 p.m.
A complete tournament bracket is available at BigTen.com.
A complete tournament bracket is available at BigTen.com.
If the Buckeyes can win the Big Ten tournament next week it would be a record ninth title for the program. Ohio State and Minnesota each have eight tournament wins though Ohio State owns the best winning percentage in its previous 21 appearances. The Buckeyes have won 48 and lost 29 for a .623 winning percentage in conference postseason play.
The tournament winner gets the league's automatic berth into the NCAA touranment. This is a one-bid league if Michigan wins. Ohio State became the first No. 6 seed to win the tournament last year and has won four of the last six tournaments. I'm not ruling out the Buckeyes chances in 2008, but I think they have their work cut out for them.
Ohio State vs. Big Ten Field
No. 1 Seed Michigan
In 2008: Michigan won 3-1
In Big Ten Tourney: OSU leads 10-7
No. 2 Purdue
In 2008: Purdue won 3-1
In Big Ten Tourney: OSU leads 6-1
No. 3 Penn State
In 2008: Series split 2-2
In Big Ten Tourney: Series tied 2-2
In 2008: Series split 2-2
In Big Ten Tourney: Series tied 2-2
No. 4 Illinois
In 2008: OSU won 2-1
In Big Ten Tourney: Illinois leads 4-2
No. 6 Indiana
In 2008: DNP
In Big Ten Tourney: OSU leads 3-0
Our Honor Defend
We can say that now that Ohio State finished the season with a 9-7 victory at Iowa Saturday that clinched a spot in the Big Ten tournament, where it will try to defend last year's championship run (Box Score). It is a conference-record 12th consecutive appearance in the tourney for Ohio State which is in for the 20th time in 21 years under head coach Bob Todd.
Big Ten Network Video
The win gave the Buckeyes a 15-15 league record. All 21 of coach Todd's team's have .500 or better records in the Big Ten. It also was the 30th win of the season for the Buckeyes. Todd's teams have won at least 30 games in 23 consecutive seasons.
Jumping out to a 4-0 lead in the first inning, the Ohio State offense was aggressive. Iowa got on the board with one in the fourth but the Buckeyes added four more in the fifth for an 8-1 lead. Ohio State managed one more run the rest of the way and had to withstand a furious comeback by Iowa, which score four runs in the final two innings to make it close.
OSU starter J.B. Shuck was as aggressive, scattering five hits and finishing with nine strikeouts in his 7.0 innings. Iowa scored three against Shuck, who won for the 17th time as a Buckeye Saturday. Alex Wimmers and Drew Rucinski struggled in relief until handing the reins over to Eric Best, who picked up his eighth save of the season.
Offensively, Justin Miller led all Buckeyes with three hits, while Cory Rupert (two doubles), Michael Arp and Tyler Engle had two hits each. Rupert and Arp had a pair of RBI apiece.
Big Ten Network Video
The win gave the Buckeyes a 15-15 league record. All 21 of coach Todd's team's have .500 or better records in the Big Ten. It also was the 30th win of the season for the Buckeyes. Todd's teams have won at least 30 games in 23 consecutive seasons.
Jumping out to a 4-0 lead in the first inning, the Ohio State offense was aggressive. Iowa got on the board with one in the fourth but the Buckeyes added four more in the fifth for an 8-1 lead. Ohio State managed one more run the rest of the way and had to withstand a furious comeback by Iowa, which score four runs in the final two innings to make it close.
OSU starter J.B. Shuck was as aggressive, scattering five hits and finishing with nine strikeouts in his 7.0 innings. Iowa scored three against Shuck, who won for the 17th time as a Buckeye Saturday. Alex Wimmers and Drew Rucinski struggled in relief until handing the reins over to Eric Best, who picked up his eighth save of the season.
Offensively, Justin Miller led all Buckeyes with three hits, while Cory Rupert (two doubles), Michael Arp and Tyler Engle had two hits each. Rupert and Arp had a pair of RBI apiece.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Not In Yet, But In Control
Ohio State and Iowa split Friday's doubleheader meaning the Buckeyes are fifth heading into the final day of Big Ten conference play.
Box Scores: Game One Game Two
According to OhioStateBuckeyes.com, Ohio State remains in fifth place in the standings, one-half game ahead of Northwestern and Indiana. These three teams are in contention for the final two Big Ten tourney berths, but Ohio State is in the driver’s seat. Any combination of a Buckeye win or a Northwestern or Indiana loss will put the Buckeyes into the tourney.
Friday, the Buckeyes didn't struggle in a 12-2 victory. After collecting only five hits and stranding six runners Thursday in a 4-3 loss to Iowa, Ohio State wasted no time in getting on the board, jumping all over Iowa starter Nick Erdman. The Buckeyes collected five hits and scored four runs in the second inning, including RBI singles by Cory Kovanda and Tyler Engle, and an RBI double from Tony Kennedy. Another run scored on a wild pitch.
Iowa pulled within two in the bottom of the second. The Buckeyes got one of Iowa ’s two runs back in the top of the third as Engle had his second RBI single of the day to score Cory Rupert, who had singled. Ohio State put the game away in the fourth by scoring six more runs off four hits, two errors and an Iowa balk to stake DeLucia to an 11-2 lead.
Rupert and the bottom of the batting order sparked the Buckeyes. Rupert had three hits and three runs scored. Dan Burkhart had a couple of hits and two runs scored. Kovanda had a hit and two runs scored and Engle had two hits, two RBI and a run scored.
DeLucia went 5.0 innings and allowed seven hits and the two earned runs. He struck out two and walked two and improved his record to 3-3 on the season and 24-13 for his Ohio State career.
In the nightcap, Iowa won 7-4. Kurtis Muller hit a grand slam home run in the first inning and Caleb Curry hit a two-run homer in the second to build a 6-0 lead off Ohio State starter Dean Wolosiansky. The Buckeyes got a run in the third and another in the fourth to cut the lead to 6-2, but Iowa scored an unearned run with two outs in their half of the fourth to build a five-run cushion at 7-2.
Justin Miller’s third hit of the game – a two-run home run in the sixth inning – pulled the Buckeyes within the three-run final score. It was Miller’s team-leading fourth home run of the year and it increased his team-leading RBI total to 60.
The Buckeyes ended up leaving the bases loaded in the sixth as reliever Brock Alberts got the final out of the inning on a pop fly to short. Alberts then shut the Buckeyes down in the seventh for his first save of the year.
Ohio State is now 29-24 overall and 14-15 in the Big Ten. The teams conclude conference play Saturday at 2:05 p.m.
Box Scores: Game One Game Two
According to OhioStateBuckeyes.com, Ohio State remains in fifth place in the standings, one-half game ahead of Northwestern and Indiana. These three teams are in contention for the final two Big Ten tourney berths, but Ohio State is in the driver’s seat. Any combination of a Buckeye win or a Northwestern or Indiana loss will put the Buckeyes into the tourney.
Friday, the Buckeyes didn't struggle in a 12-2 victory. After collecting only five hits and stranding six runners Thursday in a 4-3 loss to Iowa, Ohio State wasted no time in getting on the board, jumping all over Iowa starter Nick Erdman. The Buckeyes collected five hits and scored four runs in the second inning, including RBI singles by Cory Kovanda and Tyler Engle, and an RBI double from Tony Kennedy. Another run scored on a wild pitch.
Iowa pulled within two in the bottom of the second. The Buckeyes got one of Iowa ’s two runs back in the top of the third as Engle had his second RBI single of the day to score Cory Rupert, who had singled. Ohio State put the game away in the fourth by scoring six more runs off four hits, two errors and an Iowa balk to stake DeLucia to an 11-2 lead.
Rupert and the bottom of the batting order sparked the Buckeyes. Rupert had three hits and three runs scored. Dan Burkhart had a couple of hits and two runs scored. Kovanda had a hit and two runs scored and Engle had two hits, two RBI and a run scored.
DeLucia went 5.0 innings and allowed seven hits and the two earned runs. He struck out two and walked two and improved his record to 3-3 on the season and 24-13 for his Ohio State career.
In the nightcap, Iowa won 7-4. Kurtis Muller hit a grand slam home run in the first inning and Caleb Curry hit a two-run homer in the second to build a 6-0 lead off Ohio State starter Dean Wolosiansky. The Buckeyes got a run in the third and another in the fourth to cut the lead to 6-2, but Iowa scored an unearned run with two outs in their half of the fourth to build a five-run cushion at 7-2.
Justin Miller’s third hit of the game – a two-run home run in the sixth inning – pulled the Buckeyes within the three-run final score. It was Miller’s team-leading fourth home run of the year and it increased his team-leading RBI total to 60.
The Buckeyes ended up leaving the bases loaded in the sixth as reliever Brock Alberts got the final out of the inning on a pop fly to short. Alberts then shut the Buckeyes down in the seventh for his first save of the year.
Ohio State is now 29-24 overall and 14-15 in the Big Ten. The teams conclude conference play Saturday at 2:05 p.m.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Could Last Place Loss Doom Buckeyes?
It was free baseball tonight in Iowa City, but it was not good for Buckeye fans as Ohio State was on the losing end of a 4-3 decision at Duane Banks Field (Box Score). The Buckeyes led 3-2 through 7 1/2 innings but gave up a run in the bottom of the eighth before Iowa won it in the home half of the 10th.
Caleb Curry led off the 10th with a single to center off OSU reliever Eric Best and went all the way to third on a wild pick-off attempt. Ohio State intentionally walked the next two batters, but a wild pitch on the second attempt was a wild pitch allowing Curry to score from third to give the last-place Hawkeyes the victory over the Bucks, which are vying for a spot in next week's Big Ten tournament.
The Buckeyes mustered just five hits, but committed three errors in the game. Iowa got six hits and played flawless defense. Four of the five hits by Ohio State went for extra bases. Tony Kennedy, Zach Hurley and Justin Miller had doubles and J.B. Shuck tripled, but the Bucks went in order in the ninth and 10th.
Iowa led 2-1 heading into the sixth before Ohio State plated two runs for the lead. Shuck's triple scored Kennedy who had led off with a double. A groundout by Miller scored Shuck for the lead.
Jake Hale allowed three runs on five hits in his 7.1-inning start. He fanned four but walked four before giving way to Best who did not allow a hit until the 10th. Best fell to 4-2.
The Buckeyes dropped to 28-23 overall and 13-14 in the Big Ten. Iowa improves to 21-31 and 9-20.
Caleb Curry led off the 10th with a single to center off OSU reliever Eric Best and went all the way to third on a wild pick-off attempt. Ohio State intentionally walked the next two batters, but a wild pitch on the second attempt was a wild pitch allowing Curry to score from third to give the last-place Hawkeyes the victory over the Bucks, which are vying for a spot in next week's Big Ten tournament.
The Buckeyes mustered just five hits, but committed three errors in the game. Iowa got six hits and played flawless defense. Four of the five hits by Ohio State went for extra bases. Tony Kennedy, Zach Hurley and Justin Miller had doubles and J.B. Shuck tripled, but the Bucks went in order in the ninth and 10th.
Iowa led 2-1 heading into the sixth before Ohio State plated two runs for the lead. Shuck's triple scored Kennedy who had led off with a double. A groundout by Miller scored Shuck for the lead.
Jake Hale allowed three runs on five hits in his 7.1-inning start. He fanned four but walked four before giving way to Best who did not allow a hit until the 10th. Best fell to 4-2.
The Buckeyes dropped to 28-23 overall and 13-14 in the Big Ten. Iowa improves to 21-31 and 9-20.
Win Three to Qualify*
Just got this from Buckeye broadcaster Frank Fraas...
The Buckeyes are in a great position of controlling their own destiny to reach the Big Ten Tournament. If the Buckeyes can we at least three games against the Iowa Hawkeyes, they are in no matter what. They own the tie breaker over the Michigan State Spartans by winning two of the three games the teams played.
The Buckeyes can improve their seed if they win three and Penn State loses three to Minnesota and Michigan State sweeps. All three would be 16-14, and the Buckeyes have the better winning percentage of the three teams. OSU 4-3, Michigan State 4-3 and Penn State 3-5. All would get in with the Buckeyes would get the fourth seed, MSU the fifth and PSU the 6th.
The Buckeyes can also get in if the they win two and Michigan State loses one game to Indiana OR if Northwestern would happen to win three from Michigan and Michigan State sweeps Indiana. In this scenario, the Buckeyes and Northwestern are tied for the final spot, Michigan State would have the fifth spot. The Buckeyes win the tie breaker over Northwestern because they have the better winning percentage in games against the top five teams (Michigan, Purdue, Illinois, Penn State and Michigan State.) The Buckeyes would be 8-10 .444, while Northwestern is 7-9 .438.
Ohio State can get in with one win if Michigan State loses two or Northwestern loses three.
Ohio State can even get in if they get swept this weekend if Michigan State loses three and Northwestern gets swept.
No guarantees if we get any games washed by rain.
Thanks Frank. I know The Buckeye Nine appreciates all you do for Ohio State and Big Ten baseball. AM 920 WMNI is broadcasting games one, three and four this weekend. All four games are available at OhioStateBuckeyes.com.
The Buckeyes are in a great position of controlling their own destiny to reach the Big Ten Tournament. If the Buckeyes can we at least three games against the Iowa Hawkeyes, they are in no matter what. They own the tie breaker over the Michigan State Spartans by winning two of the three games the teams played.
The Buckeyes can improve their seed if they win three and Penn State loses three to Minnesota and Michigan State sweeps. All three would be 16-14, and the Buckeyes have the better winning percentage of the three teams. OSU 4-3, Michigan State 4-3 and Penn State 3-5. All would get in with the Buckeyes would get the fourth seed, MSU the fifth and PSU the 6th.
The Buckeyes can also get in if the they win two and Michigan State loses one game to Indiana OR if Northwestern would happen to win three from Michigan and Michigan State sweeps Indiana. In this scenario, the Buckeyes and Northwestern are tied for the final spot, Michigan State would have the fifth spot. The Buckeyes win the tie breaker over Northwestern because they have the better winning percentage in games against the top five teams (Michigan, Purdue, Illinois, Penn State and Michigan State.) The Buckeyes would be 8-10 .444, while Northwestern is 7-9 .438.
Ohio State can get in with one win if Michigan State loses two or Northwestern loses three.
Ohio State can even get in if they get swept this weekend if Michigan State loses three and Northwestern gets swept.
No guarantees if we get any games washed by rain.
Thanks Frank. I know The Buckeye Nine appreciates all you do for Ohio State and Big Ten baseball. AM 920 WMNI is broadcasting games one, three and four this weekend. All four games are available at OhioStateBuckeyes.com.
Ohio State at Iowa
Whoa! I missed today's story in the Columbus Dispatch. Umm, where have you been all season?
It is time for rare Thursday Big Ten baseball. Ohio State opens a four-game series tonight at Iowa at Duane Banks Field in Iowa City. By moving all five Big Ten series up a day it gives teams competing in next week's Big Ten tournament an extra day of rest.
Ohio State is in decent shape to qualify for a 12th conseutive appearance in the Big Ten tournament. That streak is the longest in the league. The Buckeyes have actually played in 19 of the last 20 tournaments. They are also trying to win 30 games for the 23rd consecutive season.
Ohio State Buckeyes
(28-22, 13-13 Big Ten)
vs.
Iowa Hawkeyes
(20-31; 8-20 Big Ten)
The Schedule
Thursday: 7 p.m., ET
Friday (DH): 5 p.m., ET
Saturday: 2 p.m., ET
Following the Action
AM 920 WMNI will broadcast games one, three and four, but all four games can be heard with a subscription to ohiostatebuckeyes.com, which also offer live stats free of charge.
Ohio State vs. Iowa
State leads the all-time series with Iowa, 64-41-1 and has won or tied 11 consecutive series. The Buckeyes have won five consecutive series and is 7-0-4 in four-game series dating back to the first four-game series between the teams: a 3-1 Iowa win in 1990. A few more series notes:
• Coach Bob Todd’s teams are 33-18 vs. Iowa.
• Ohio State has won 16 of the last 20 games in the series.
• Ohio State has taken three consecutive series in Iowa City by 3-1 margins.
• Iowa won game three last year in Columbus, 8-0.
• Tony Kennedy had 5 runs, 6 hits and 7 RBI last year vs. Iowa.
• Ryan Dew had 3 runs and 4 RBI in G4.
• Justin Miller had 3 runs and 6 hits.
• Cory Kovanda was 5-for-14 at the plate.
Probable Starters from OhioStateBuckeyes.com
G1: RHP Jake Hale (5-3, 4.60 ERA) vs. RHP Brock Alberts (4-3, 5.93 ERA)
G2: LHP Dan DeLucia (2-3, 5.06 ERA) vs. RHP Steve Turnbull (3-5, 7.30 ERA)
G3: RHP Dean Wolosiansky (7-2, 3.82) vs. RHP Tony Manville (1-1, 6.75 ERA)
G4: LHP J.B. Shuck (4-3, 4.50 ERA) vs. LHP Michael Jacobs (2-5, 7.02 ERA)
Buckeye Bullets
• Ohio State’s current three-game win streak ties its longest such streak of the season.
• The team’s four-run ninth inning and subsequent 14-13 win over Buffalo was the first time this season the team won a game after trailing going into the ninth.
• Ohio State is now 20-2 this season when leading after six innings; 3-15 when trailing.
• Two Buckeyes - J.B. Shuck and Justin Miller - continue to hit above .350 in Big Ten games. Shuck is at .406. Miller is at .359.• The doubleheader win Saturday over Illinois represented Ohio State’s first doubleheader sweep this season.
• Ten different Buckeyes scored runs during the Illinois series, with Tony Kennedy and Zach Hurley leading the way with four apiece.
• Ohio State is 11-4 this season when it has three or more extra base hits in a game.
• Ohio State is 10-4 this season in games it walks two or fewer batters.
Big Ten Standings
Michigan 23-4
Purdue 18-9
Illinois 15-12
Penn State 15-13
Ohio State 13-13
Northwestern 13-15
Michigan State 12-14
Indiana 11-17
Minnesota 8-19
Iowa 8-20
Other Big Ten Games this Week
Northwestern at Michigan, Indiana at Michigan State, Penn State at Minnesota, Purdue at Illinois.
Next Week
May 21-24, Big Ten Tournament at Ray Fisher Stadium, Ann Arbor, Mich.
It is time for rare Thursday Big Ten baseball. Ohio State opens a four-game series tonight at Iowa at Duane Banks Field in Iowa City. By moving all five Big Ten series up a day it gives teams competing in next week's Big Ten tournament an extra day of rest.
Ohio State is in decent shape to qualify for a 12th conseutive appearance in the Big Ten tournament. That streak is the longest in the league. The Buckeyes have actually played in 19 of the last 20 tournaments. They are also trying to win 30 games for the 23rd consecutive season.
Ohio State Buckeyes
(28-22, 13-13 Big Ten)
vs.
Iowa Hawkeyes
(20-31; 8-20 Big Ten)
The Schedule
Thursday: 7 p.m., ET
Friday (DH): 5 p.m., ET
Saturday: 2 p.m., ET
Following the Action
AM 920 WMNI will broadcast games one, three and four, but all four games can be heard with a subscription to ohiostatebuckeyes.com, which also offer live stats free of charge.
Ohio State vs. Iowa
State leads the all-time series with Iowa, 64-41-1 and has won or tied 11 consecutive series. The Buckeyes have won five consecutive series and is 7-0-4 in four-game series dating back to the first four-game series between the teams: a 3-1 Iowa win in 1990. A few more series notes:
• Coach Bob Todd’s teams are 33-18 vs. Iowa.
• Ohio State has won 16 of the last 20 games in the series.
• Ohio State has taken three consecutive series in Iowa City by 3-1 margins.
• Iowa won game three last year in Columbus, 8-0.
• Tony Kennedy had 5 runs, 6 hits and 7 RBI last year vs. Iowa.
• Ryan Dew had 3 runs and 4 RBI in G4.
• Justin Miller had 3 runs and 6 hits.
• Cory Kovanda was 5-for-14 at the plate.
Probable Starters from OhioStateBuckeyes.com
G1: RHP Jake Hale (5-3, 4.60 ERA) vs. RHP Brock Alberts (4-3, 5.93 ERA)
G2: LHP Dan DeLucia (2-3, 5.06 ERA) vs. RHP Steve Turnbull (3-5, 7.30 ERA)
G3: RHP Dean Wolosiansky (7-2, 3.82) vs. RHP Tony Manville (1-1, 6.75 ERA)
G4: LHP J.B. Shuck (4-3, 4.50 ERA) vs. LHP Michael Jacobs (2-5, 7.02 ERA)
Buckeye Bullets
• Ohio State’s current three-game win streak ties its longest such streak of the season.
• The team’s four-run ninth inning and subsequent 14-13 win over Buffalo was the first time this season the team won a game after trailing going into the ninth.
• Ohio State is now 20-2 this season when leading after six innings; 3-15 when trailing.
• Two Buckeyes - J.B. Shuck and Justin Miller - continue to hit above .350 in Big Ten games. Shuck is at .406. Miller is at .359.• The doubleheader win Saturday over Illinois represented Ohio State’s first doubleheader sweep this season.
• Ten different Buckeyes scored runs during the Illinois series, with Tony Kennedy and Zach Hurley leading the way with four apiece.
• Ohio State is 11-4 this season when it has three or more extra base hits in a game.
• Ohio State is 10-4 this season in games it walks two or fewer batters.
Big Ten Standings
Michigan 23-4
Purdue 18-9
Illinois 15-12
Penn State 15-13
Ohio State 13-13
Northwestern 13-15
Michigan State 12-14
Indiana 11-17
Minnesota 8-19
Iowa 8-20
Other Big Ten Games this Week
Northwestern at Michigan, Indiana at Michigan State, Penn State at Minnesota, Purdue at Illinois.
Next Week
May 21-24, Big Ten Tournament at Ray Fisher Stadium, Ann Arbor, Mich.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
A Pathetic Win
But a win nonetheless. It should have been a walk in the park, a mindless game for an effortless win against a horrid Buffalo team that has just 13 wins. I stand by that pre-game assessment of what this game should have been.
Instead, the Buckeyes had to fight and claw their way to a 14-13 victory in the 2008 home finale (Box Score), the last game at Bill Davis Stadium for four seniors. They deserved better.
J.B. Shuck got the short start since his weekend start was rained out Sunday vs. Illinois. He pitched 3.0 innings and allowed two runs on four hits with a pair of strikeouts before handing the ball over to the bullpen so he could rest up for his start against Iowa this coming Sunday in Iowa City.
Rory Meister reminded why he has been in the dog house. I think he's a good kid and at one time showed great promise as a pitcher but he appeared to mail it in long before the start of his senior season. Today, he allowed nine runs on nine hits, including four doubles.
Through 3 ½ innings, the Buckeyes found themselves down 11-0, but got on the board with a pair in the bottom of the fourth. Andrew Armstrong gave up two runs in the fifth. He pitched 2.0 innings. Drew Rucinski, Alex Wimmers and Eric Best kept the Bulls off the board the rest of the way and gave their team a chance.
Like it did Saturday in the second game of the doubleheader vs. Illinois, Ohio State mounted a comeback, scoring three in the bottom of the fifth and two in the seventh before Justin Miller's three-run bomb pulled the Buckeyes within a 13-10 score.
And yet, as bad as it was, this team had a chance. In the ninth it loaded the bases with none out. Shuck walked for the first run and Miller tied the game with a two-run single. An error on Buffalo centerfielder Adam Skoniezski on a Zach Hurley fly ball won the game for the Buckeyes.
There will be some loyal fans who will try to make excuses for the effort in this game or perhaps brag about the improbable comeback, but it is a game Ohio State shouldn't nearly lose no matter how poor a season it is having. This game didn't matter, right? It's not like they were trying to get to 40 wins, like most Bob Todd-coached teams. This team is trying to win 30 games, which means nothing other than continuing a 22-season streak of winning at least that many. All that matters this year is that the team qualifies for the Big Ten tournament, where it can make a valiant effort at saving the season. As much as I would like to see another tournament championship and NCAA tournament berth locked up, I'm not sure this team is capable of that kind of magic, or maybe it is.
They have to get to Ann Arbor first. Good luck in Iowa City. Go Bucks!
Think I'm off base in my assessment? Let The Buckeye Nine know what you think.
Instead, the Buckeyes had to fight and claw their way to a 14-13 victory in the 2008 home finale (Box Score), the last game at Bill Davis Stadium for four seniors. They deserved better.
J.B. Shuck got the short start since his weekend start was rained out Sunday vs. Illinois. He pitched 3.0 innings and allowed two runs on four hits with a pair of strikeouts before handing the ball over to the bullpen so he could rest up for his start against Iowa this coming Sunday in Iowa City.
Rory Meister reminded why he has been in the dog house. I think he's a good kid and at one time showed great promise as a pitcher but he appeared to mail it in long before the start of his senior season. Today, he allowed nine runs on nine hits, including four doubles.
Through 3 ½ innings, the Buckeyes found themselves down 11-0, but got on the board with a pair in the bottom of the fourth. Andrew Armstrong gave up two runs in the fifth. He pitched 2.0 innings. Drew Rucinski, Alex Wimmers and Eric Best kept the Bulls off the board the rest of the way and gave their team a chance.
Like it did Saturday in the second game of the doubleheader vs. Illinois, Ohio State mounted a comeback, scoring three in the bottom of the fifth and two in the seventh before Justin Miller's three-run bomb pulled the Buckeyes within a 13-10 score.
And yet, as bad as it was, this team had a chance. In the ninth it loaded the bases with none out. Shuck walked for the first run and Miller tied the game with a two-run single. An error on Buffalo centerfielder Adam Skoniezski on a Zach Hurley fly ball won the game for the Buckeyes.
There will be some loyal fans who will try to make excuses for the effort in this game or perhaps brag about the improbable comeback, but it is a game Ohio State shouldn't nearly lose no matter how poor a season it is having. This game didn't matter, right? It's not like they were trying to get to 40 wins, like most Bob Todd-coached teams. This team is trying to win 30 games, which means nothing other than continuing a 22-season streak of winning at least that many. All that matters this year is that the team qualifies for the Big Ten tournament, where it can make a valiant effort at saving the season. As much as I would like to see another tournament championship and NCAA tournament berth locked up, I'm not sure this team is capable of that kind of magic, or maybe it is.
They have to get to Ann Arbor first. Good luck in Iowa City. Go Bucks!
Think I'm off base in my assessment? Let The Buckeye Nine know what you think.
It's Game Time?
Ohio State will close out the home portion of its 2008 schedule vs. Buffalo today at noon. If you don't mind 2,600 sixth-graders from Columbus City Schools, you should head out to the game. It is a great way to spend an afternoon and the weather should be perfect. Besides, it is your last chance to see the Baseball Buckeyes this season at Bill Davis Stadium.
The team also will honor its four seniors - Dan DeLucia, Tony Kennedy, Chris Macke and Rory Meister. The ceremony had been scheduled for Sunday, but was rained out.
The Bucks are headed to Iowa City, Iowa later this week to close out Big Ten play at Iowa. That series begins Thursday and concludes Saturday, giving teams an extra day off before the conference tournament, which begins next Wednesday in Ann Arbor.
Big Ten Standings
Michigan 23-4
Purdue 18-9
Illinois 15-12
Penn State 15-13
Ohio State 13-13
Northwestern 13-15
Michigan State 12-14
Indiana 11-17
Minnesota 8-19
Iowa 8-20
Other Big Ten Games this Week
Northwestern at Michigan, Indiana at Michigan State, Penn State at Minnesota, Purdue at Illinois.
About Buffalo
The Bulls are 13-35 and 6-17 in the Mid-American Conference and are riding a nine-game losing streak after losses to St. Bonaventure, Canisius, Kent State and Bowling Green. Their last win came April 26 vs. Akron, a series they won two out of three. Buffalo closes out MAC play this weekend by hosting Ohio University.
The team also will honor its four seniors - Dan DeLucia, Tony Kennedy, Chris Macke and Rory Meister. The ceremony had been scheduled for Sunday, but was rained out.
The Bucks are headed to Iowa City, Iowa later this week to close out Big Ten play at Iowa. That series begins Thursday and concludes Saturday, giving teams an extra day off before the conference tournament, which begins next Wednesday in Ann Arbor.
Big Ten Standings
Michigan 23-4
Purdue 18-9
Illinois 15-12
Penn State 15-13
Ohio State 13-13
Northwestern 13-15
Michigan State 12-14
Indiana 11-17
Minnesota 8-19
Iowa 8-20
Other Big Ten Games this Week
Northwestern at Michigan, Indiana at Michigan State, Penn State at Minnesota, Purdue at Illinois.
About Buffalo
The Bulls are 13-35 and 6-17 in the Mid-American Conference and are riding a nine-game losing streak after losses to St. Bonaventure, Canisius, Kent State and Bowling Green. Their last win came April 26 vs. Akron, a series they won two out of three. Buffalo closes out MAC play this weekend by hosting Ohio University.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Miller Named Player of the Week
Ohio State first baseman Justin Miller has been named the Big Ten Player of the Week for his efforts in the Buckeyes’ 3-1 week last week that included a 2-1 series win over Illinois. The honor is the first for the junior from Dayton , Va.
Miller batted .538 (7-for-13) with a .571 on-base percentage and a .692 slugging average, recording at least two hits and an RBI in each game of the series vs. Illinois. Miller drove in nine RBI in the three games and scored three runs. He leads the team with 52 RBI and is riding a nine-game hit streak. He is batting .486 (17-for-35) during the streak with 15 ribs.
In the series opener he was 2-for-4 with two RBI and a runs scored and then followed it up by going 2-for-4 with three RBI and a double in game two before going 3-for-5 with four RBI in game three. The fourth game of the series was rained out.
Miller batted .538 (7-for-13) with a .571 on-base percentage and a .692 slugging average, recording at least two hits and an RBI in each game of the series vs. Illinois. Miller drove in nine RBI in the three games and scored three runs. He leads the team with 52 RBI and is riding a nine-game hit streak. He is batting .486 (17-for-35) during the streak with 15 ribs.
In the series opener he was 2-for-4 with two RBI and a runs scored and then followed it up by going 2-for-4 with three RBI and a double in game two before going 3-for-5 with four RBI in game three. The fourth game of the series was rained out.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Game Four Washed Out
Heavy rains throughout Sunday morning and tornado warnings in the early afternoon, plus the threat of additional heavy rain, has forced the cancellation of the final game of the series between Ohio State and Illinois at Bill Davis Stadium. The game will not be made up. The Buckeyes won two of the three games. This was the second Big Ten game this season that was lost to bad weather.
Senior Salutes
OhioStateBuckeyes.com is paying tribute to this year's seniors - Dan DeLucia, Tony Kennedy, Chris Macke and Rory Meister. The foursome will be honored prior to Sunday's series finale vs. Illinois. That game is the final Big Ten game they will play at Bill Davis Stadium.
So far, the site has video of Tony Kennedy and Dan DeLucia.
Update... Ohio State has added a video tribute to Chris Macke and Rory Meister.
Thank you Seniors. It is a pity you could not be honored before your final Big Ten game at Bill Davis Stadium. I'm guessing the 4,000 sixth-graders from Columbus Public Schools will be too worried about getting hit in the mouth with a foul ball on Tuesday when I suspect you will be recognized.
So far, the site has video of Tony Kennedy and Dan DeLucia.
Update... Ohio State has added a video tribute to Chris Macke and Rory Meister.
Thank you Seniors. It is a pity you could not be honored before your final Big Ten game at Bill Davis Stadium. I'm guessing the 4,000 sixth-graders from Columbus Public Schools will be too worried about getting hit in the mouth with a foul ball on Tuesday when I suspect you will be recognized.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
10-Spot Lifts OSU to DH Sweep
Ohio State scored 10 runs in the bottom of the fifth inning to fuel the team to a 14-8 victory to complete the doubleheader sweep of Illinois Saturday at Bill Davis Stadium. It was the first doubleheader sweep by the Buckeyes this season.
Box Scores: Game One Game Two
The Buckeyes built a 3-1 lead through three innings only to see the Illini take the lead with seven runs in the top of the fifth. Ohio State came right back to take a 13-8 lead thanks to timely hitting, including a three-run double by Justin Miller.
Miller finished the game 3-for-5 with four RBI. Cory Rupert also drove in four in going 3-for-4. Dan Burkhart also was 3-for-4. J.B. Shuck was 2-for-4 and drove in two and Ryan Meade added two hits as well.
The Buckeyes pounded out 16 hits, including doubles by Michael Arp, Miller and Rupert, who also tripled.
Eric Best earned the win in relief after getting the save in game one. He allowed one hit and walked two in his 1.1 innings of work. He replaced Dean Wolosiansky who was roughed up for eight runs on seven hits in 4.0 innings. He did not record a strikeout and walked two. Alex Wimmers pitched the final 1.1 innings and struck out three.
The Buckeyes are now 27-22 overall and moved into fourth place in the league standings with a 13-13 record. Illinois slipped to 29-20 and 15-12.
The teams conclude the series tomorrow with a 1:05 p.m. scheduled first pitch. Severe weather could wash out the finale. Columbus has only a 90 percent chance of rain in the Mother's Day forecast.
Completion of Friday Game
The Fighting Illini led 7-2 when play was suspended in Friday's series opener Friday with Ohio State. Each team added two runs Saturday when play resumed giving Illinois the 9-4 victory.
Friday Box Score
Zach Hurley was 4-for-5 for the Buckeyes and Justin Miller, Dan Burkhart and Tyler Engle each added two hits. The four accounted for 10 of the team's 12 hits. Illinois had 14 hits with five players accounting for 10 hits. The teams combined for five errors. Ohio State had three.
Ohio State got on the board with a solo run in the second and gave up seven unanswered runs, including three runs in each the third and fifth innings. Each team scored one in the sixth to get to the 7-2 interruption point. Ohio State got one run in the bottom of the eighth and another in the ninth, but gave up two in the top of the ninth.
Jake Hale took the loss. He allowed seven runs (just three earned) on nine hits. He struck out two and walked three in 5.2 innings. Josh Edgin pitched 3.1 innings and allowed two runs on five hits, but struck out six. Hale fell to 5-3 on the season.
Saturday Game One
In game the first game of the scheduled doubleheader, it was all Ohio State.
After giving up a Illini run in the top of the first, the Buckeyes responded with three runs in the bottom of the inning. When Illinois added its second run in the top of the sixth, the Buckeyes exploded for sixth to put the game on ice.
Miller was 2-for-4 with three RBI and Burkhart also was 2-for-4. Zach Hurley drove in two and scored two. Ohio State had eight hits and no errors. Illinois had six hits and one error.
Dan DeLucia got the win in his final start at Bill Davis Stadium. He allowed both runs on four hits in 5.1 innings. He struck out five and walked three before handing the game over to Eric Best, who got his seventh save of the season in 1.2 scoreless innings and allowed two hits.
The-Ozone.net Recap
Photo Galleries: Game One Game Two Game Three
Box Scores: Game One Game Two
The Buckeyes built a 3-1 lead through three innings only to see the Illini take the lead with seven runs in the top of the fifth. Ohio State came right back to take a 13-8 lead thanks to timely hitting, including a three-run double by Justin Miller.
Miller finished the game 3-for-5 with four RBI. Cory Rupert also drove in four in going 3-for-4. Dan Burkhart also was 3-for-4. J.B. Shuck was 2-for-4 and drove in two and Ryan Meade added two hits as well.
The Buckeyes pounded out 16 hits, including doubles by Michael Arp, Miller and Rupert, who also tripled.
Eric Best earned the win in relief after getting the save in game one. He allowed one hit and walked two in his 1.1 innings of work. He replaced Dean Wolosiansky who was roughed up for eight runs on seven hits in 4.0 innings. He did not record a strikeout and walked two. Alex Wimmers pitched the final 1.1 innings and struck out three.
The Buckeyes are now 27-22 overall and moved into fourth place in the league standings with a 13-13 record. Illinois slipped to 29-20 and 15-12.
The teams conclude the series tomorrow with a 1:05 p.m. scheduled first pitch. Severe weather could wash out the finale. Columbus has only a 90 percent chance of rain in the Mother's Day forecast.
Completion of Friday Game
The Fighting Illini led 7-2 when play was suspended in Friday's series opener Friday with Ohio State. Each team added two runs Saturday when play resumed giving Illinois the 9-4 victory.
Friday Box Score
Zach Hurley was 4-for-5 for the Buckeyes and Justin Miller, Dan Burkhart and Tyler Engle each added two hits. The four accounted for 10 of the team's 12 hits. Illinois had 14 hits with five players accounting for 10 hits. The teams combined for five errors. Ohio State had three.
Ohio State got on the board with a solo run in the second and gave up seven unanswered runs, including three runs in each the third and fifth innings. Each team scored one in the sixth to get to the 7-2 interruption point. Ohio State got one run in the bottom of the eighth and another in the ninth, but gave up two in the top of the ninth.
Jake Hale took the loss. He allowed seven runs (just three earned) on nine hits. He struck out two and walked three in 5.2 innings. Josh Edgin pitched 3.1 innings and allowed two runs on five hits, but struck out six. Hale fell to 5-3 on the season.
Saturday Game One
In game the first game of the scheduled doubleheader, it was all Ohio State.
After giving up a Illini run in the top of the first, the Buckeyes responded with three runs in the bottom of the inning. When Illinois added its second run in the top of the sixth, the Buckeyes exploded for sixth to put the game on ice.
Miller was 2-for-4 with three RBI and Burkhart also was 2-for-4. Zach Hurley drove in two and scored two. Ohio State had eight hits and no errors. Illinois had six hits and one error.
Dan DeLucia got the win in his final start at Bill Davis Stadium. He allowed both runs on four hits in 5.1 innings. He struck out five and walked three before handing the game over to Eric Best, who got his seventh save of the season in 1.2 scoreless innings and allowed two hits.
The-Ozone.net Recap
Photo Galleries: Game One Game Two Game Three
Friday, May 9, 2008
Big Weekend at The Bill; OSU vs. Illinois
Ohio State Buckeyes
(25-21, 11-12 Big Ten)
vs.
Illinois Fighting Illini
(28-18; 14-10 Big Ten)
Schedule
Friday: 6:35 p.m.
Saturday (DH): 1:05 p.m.
Sunday: 1:05 p.m.
Following the Buckeyes
Games one, two and four will be broadcast by AM 920 WMNI in Columbus. All four games will be on OhioStateBuckeyes.com. Live stats will also be available.
Series History
Ohio State leads, 93-85-2
Last Meeting: May 24, 2007; Ohio State, 4-2
Probable Starting Pitchers
G1: RHP Jake Hale (5-2, 4.58 ERA) vs. RHP Kevin Manson (6-1; 5.93 ERA)
G2: LHP Dan DeLucia (1-3, 5.30) vs. RHP Aaron Martin (4-5, 6.04 ERA)
G3: RHP Dean Wolosiansky (7-2, 2.83) vs. LHP Phil Haig (1-2, 6.14 ERA)
G4: LHP J.B. Shuck (4-3, 4.42) vs. RHP Scott Shaw (4-2, 6.80 ERA)
Weekend Events
Head coach Bob Todd, the winningest coach in Ohio State history with 826 wins in his 21 seasons as Ohio State coach, will be honored before tonight's game for his induction into the American Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame (which will take place next January). Todd has an all-time record of 950-512-2 in this, his 25th season as a head coach.
Marty Karow, Ohio State skipper from 1951 until 1976 and who led the Buckeyes to four College World Series, including winning the national title in 1966, will have his jersey – No. 13 – officially retired by the athletics department in a ceremony between games of the doubleheader on Saturday.
Ohio State and Illinois Notes
• In 2006 at Bill Davis Stadium, Ohio State won the series, 3-1. Ohio State also took 3-1 series wins at home in 2004 and 2001.
• The teams split four games in 1998, the only other OSU/Illinois series at Bill Davis Stadium.
• Illinois won in 2005 at Illinois Field, 4-0.
• In Big Ten games: Illinois leads the league with a .357 batting average; Ohio State is eighth at .291.
• Illinois is also first in runs scored, hits, RBI, doubles and on base pct.
• Ohio State is second in earned run average in Big Ten games (4.58) with Illinois seventh (6.79).
• Ohio State state’s staff is also second in opponents’ batting average, batters struck out, saves and fewest earned runs allowed.
Buckeye Bullets
• Most teams in the Big Ten hit singles approximately 75 percent of the time (cumulative average for other nine schools is 74 percent). The two teams on top of the Big Ten standings - Michigan and Purdue - hit singles only 69 percent of the time.
• Ohio State is 11-4 this season when it has three or more extra base hits in a game.
• Ohio State 10-4 this season in games it walks two or fewer batters.
• Ohio State needs five wins to extend a most impressive streak: a 23rd consecutive 30-win season for coach Todd.
• The Buckeyes are also vying to make the Big Ten tournament for a 12th consecutive year, tops in the Big Ten.
• Six everyday players are hitting over .300 led by J.B. Shuck (.391; 10th overall in the Big Ten) and Justin Miller (.382).
• Michael Arp and Brian DeLucia, who have made 16 and 15 starts, respectively, are hot at the plate with .407 and .375 averages.
• On the mound, Shuck is first in the Big Ten in opp. bat. average (.212) and second in Ks (65).
• Dean Wolosiansky is fourth in the Big Ten (all games) in ERA (2.83) and second in wins (7).
• OSU is 18-2 when leading after six innings; 3-14 when trailing.
Around the Big Ten this Weekend
Illinois (14-10) at Ohio State (11-12); Indiana (9-15) at Northwestern (11-13); Iowa (8-16) at Penn State (11-13); Michigan (20-4) at Minnesota (8-16); Michigan State (10-13) at Purdue (17-7).
Looking Ahead to the Final Weekend
Ohio State at Iowa; Indiana at Michigan State; Purdue at Illinois; Northwestern at Michigan; Penn State at Minnesota.
Information from OhioStateBuckeyes.com.
(25-21, 11-12 Big Ten)
vs.
Illinois Fighting Illini
(28-18; 14-10 Big Ten)
Schedule
Friday: 6:35 p.m.
Saturday (DH): 1:05 p.m.
Sunday: 1:05 p.m.
Following the Buckeyes
Games one, two and four will be broadcast by AM 920 WMNI in Columbus. All four games will be on OhioStateBuckeyes.com. Live stats will also be available.
Series History
Ohio State leads, 93-85-2
Last Meeting: May 24, 2007; Ohio State, 4-2
Probable Starting Pitchers
G1: RHP Jake Hale (5-2, 4.58 ERA) vs. RHP Kevin Manson (6-1; 5.93 ERA)
G2: LHP Dan DeLucia (1-3, 5.30) vs. RHP Aaron Martin (4-5, 6.04 ERA)
G3: RHP Dean Wolosiansky (7-2, 2.83) vs. LHP Phil Haig (1-2, 6.14 ERA)
G4: LHP J.B. Shuck (4-3, 4.42) vs. RHP Scott Shaw (4-2, 6.80 ERA)
Weekend Events
Head coach Bob Todd, the winningest coach in Ohio State history with 826 wins in his 21 seasons as Ohio State coach, will be honored before tonight's game for his induction into the American Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame (which will take place next January). Todd has an all-time record of 950-512-2 in this, his 25th season as a head coach.
Marty Karow, Ohio State skipper from 1951 until 1976 and who led the Buckeyes to four College World Series, including winning the national title in 1966, will have his jersey – No. 13 – officially retired by the athletics department in a ceremony between games of the doubleheader on Saturday.
Ohio State and Illinois Notes
• In 2006 at Bill Davis Stadium, Ohio State won the series, 3-1. Ohio State also took 3-1 series wins at home in 2004 and 2001.
• The teams split four games in 1998, the only other OSU/Illinois series at Bill Davis Stadium.
• Illinois won in 2005 at Illinois Field, 4-0.
• In Big Ten games: Illinois leads the league with a .357 batting average; Ohio State is eighth at .291.
• Illinois is also first in runs scored, hits, RBI, doubles and on base pct.
• Ohio State is second in earned run average in Big Ten games (4.58) with Illinois seventh (6.79).
• Ohio State state’s staff is also second in opponents’ batting average, batters struck out, saves and fewest earned runs allowed.
Buckeye Bullets
• Most teams in the Big Ten hit singles approximately 75 percent of the time (cumulative average for other nine schools is 74 percent). The two teams on top of the Big Ten standings - Michigan and Purdue - hit singles only 69 percent of the time.
• Ohio State is 11-4 this season when it has three or more extra base hits in a game.
• Ohio State 10-4 this season in games it walks two or fewer batters.
• Ohio State needs five wins to extend a most impressive streak: a 23rd consecutive 30-win season for coach Todd.
• The Buckeyes are also vying to make the Big Ten tournament for a 12th consecutive year, tops in the Big Ten.
• Six everyday players are hitting over .300 led by J.B. Shuck (.391; 10th overall in the Big Ten) and Justin Miller (.382).
• Michael Arp and Brian DeLucia, who have made 16 and 15 starts, respectively, are hot at the plate with .407 and .375 averages.
• On the mound, Shuck is first in the Big Ten in opp. bat. average (.212) and second in Ks (65).
• Dean Wolosiansky is fourth in the Big Ten (all games) in ERA (2.83) and second in wins (7).
• OSU is 18-2 when leading after six innings; 3-14 when trailing.
Around the Big Ten this Weekend
Illinois (14-10) at Ohio State (11-12); Indiana (9-15) at Northwestern (11-13); Iowa (8-16) at Penn State (11-13); Michigan (20-4) at Minnesota (8-16); Michigan State (10-13) at Purdue (17-7).
Looking Ahead to the Final Weekend
Ohio State at Iowa; Indiana at Michigan State; Purdue at Illinois; Northwestern at Michigan; Penn State at Minnesota.
Information from OhioStateBuckeyes.com.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Celebrating 125 Years of Ohio State Baseball
In the four-game series this weekend vs. Illinois, Ohio State is celebrating 125 years of Ohio State baseball that will feature two legendary coaches being honored for their accomplishments.
Marty Karow, Ohio State skipper from 1951 until 1976, led the Buckeyes to four College World Series, winning the national title in 1966. He will have his jersey – No. 13 – officially retired by the athletics department in a ceremony between doubleheader games Saturday.
Bob Todd, the winningest coach in Ohio State history with more than 800 wins in his 21 seasons as Ohio State coach, will be honored before the Friday game on his induction into the American Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame (which will officially take place in January at the ABCA Convention).
Karow, who won a then-record 479 Ohio State games, will be only the third individual to have his jersey retired. Fred Taylor, Ohio State’s first baseball All-American, had his No. 27 retired in 2003. Steve Arlin, the great Ohio State pitcher who led the Buckeyes to back-to-back College World Series and to the 1966 CWS championship, had his jersey No. 22 retired in 2005. Karow’s jersey will be retired 33 years to the date of his last home game as coach: a 1-0 win over Michigan May 10, 1975. He passed away in 1986, three months shy of his 82nd birthday.
Todd, who has 947 career victories in this, his 25th season as a collegiate head coach, has guided Ohio State to six of its 14 Big Ten Conference championships and he has also led the team to a Big Ten record eight Big Ten tournament titles. In addition, he has led the team into 12 NCAA tournaments. Todd has done more than win championships at Ohio State , though. He was the driving force behind the fund raising efforts and the building of the majestic Bill Davis Stadium.
“The Ohio State Department of Athletics is thrilled to honor the legacy of Marty Karow by retiring his jersey,” Gene Smith, Director of Athletics, said, “and we are most proud of the lasting achievements of coach Bob Todd that have enabled him to attain the highest coaching honor possible: being enshrined into the American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.”
The Illinois weekend will also be an opportunity to celebrate the current student-athletes as well as the past accomplishments of those before them. Among the efforts planned for the weekend:
Ohio State ’s baseball captains – 151 different individuals have served as captain over the years including this year’s captains, Dan DeLucia and Justin Miller – will have their annual captain’s breakfast Sunday morning.
This year’s four seniors – Dan DeLucia, Tony Kennedy, Chris Macke and Rory Meister – will be honored on the field prior to the 1:05 p.m. Sunday game.
In conjunction with the Diamond Club, the baseball program’s booster organization, a BBQ picnic will take place on Saturday and will be open to the public for a minimal charge with all proceeds benefiting the baseball program. For more information about joining the Buckeye Diamond Club, email BuckeyeDiamondClub@hotmail.com.
A display of past Ohio State baseball trophies, including Big Ten Conference championship trophies and the 1966 College World Series trophy, will be assembled at Bill Davis Stadium throughout the weekend.
From OhioStateBuckeyes.com
Marty Karow, Ohio State skipper from 1951 until 1976, led the Buckeyes to four College World Series, winning the national title in 1966. He will have his jersey – No. 13 – officially retired by the athletics department in a ceremony between doubleheader games Saturday.
Bob Todd, the winningest coach in Ohio State history with more than 800 wins in his 21 seasons as Ohio State coach, will be honored before the Friday game on his induction into the American Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame (which will officially take place in January at the ABCA Convention).
Karow, who won a then-record 479 Ohio State games, will be only the third individual to have his jersey retired. Fred Taylor, Ohio State’s first baseball All-American, had his No. 27 retired in 2003. Steve Arlin, the great Ohio State pitcher who led the Buckeyes to back-to-back College World Series and to the 1966 CWS championship, had his jersey No. 22 retired in 2005. Karow’s jersey will be retired 33 years to the date of his last home game as coach: a 1-0 win over Michigan May 10, 1975. He passed away in 1986, three months shy of his 82nd birthday.
Todd, who has 947 career victories in this, his 25th season as a collegiate head coach, has guided Ohio State to six of its 14 Big Ten Conference championships and he has also led the team to a Big Ten record eight Big Ten tournament titles. In addition, he has led the team into 12 NCAA tournaments. Todd has done more than win championships at Ohio State , though. He was the driving force behind the fund raising efforts and the building of the majestic Bill Davis Stadium.
“The Ohio State Department of Athletics is thrilled to honor the legacy of Marty Karow by retiring his jersey,” Gene Smith, Director of Athletics, said, “and we are most proud of the lasting achievements of coach Bob Todd that have enabled him to attain the highest coaching honor possible: being enshrined into the American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.”
The Illinois weekend will also be an opportunity to celebrate the current student-athletes as well as the past accomplishments of those before them. Among the efforts planned for the weekend:
Ohio State ’s baseball captains – 151 different individuals have served as captain over the years including this year’s captains, Dan DeLucia and Justin Miller – will have their annual captain’s breakfast Sunday morning.
This year’s four seniors – Dan DeLucia, Tony Kennedy, Chris Macke and Rory Meister – will be honored on the field prior to the 1:05 p.m. Sunday game.
In conjunction with the Diamond Club, the baseball program’s booster organization, a BBQ picnic will take place on Saturday and will be open to the public for a minimal charge with all proceeds benefiting the baseball program. For more information about joining the Buckeye Diamond Club, email BuckeyeDiamondClub@hotmail.com.
A display of past Ohio State baseball trophies, including Big Ten Conference championship trophies and the 1966 College World Series trophy, will be assembled at Bill Davis Stadium throughout the weekend.
From OhioStateBuckeyes.com
Upgrades at The Bill
Permanent recognition of the Buckeyes' College World Series appearances and Big Ten championships will be added to Bill Davis Stadium. The three retired jersey numbers will have a permanent place on the outfield walls and jersey plaques and bios for Fred Taylor, Steve Arlin and Marty Karow will be placed on one side of the arched wall in the stadium concourse.
On the other side of the arches, the side facing Borror Drive and the entrance to the stadium, Ohio State’s College World Series years – 1951, 1965, 1966 and 1967 – will be displayed along one end and Ohio State’s Big Ten Conference championship years – 1917, 1924, 1943, 1951, 1955, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1999 and 2001 – will be displayed on the other end.
In addition, “Ohio State” and “Buckeyes” will adorn the tops of the dugouts similar to the way those brands are displayed in the end zones at Ohio Stadium and on the end lines on the basketball floor at the Jerome Schottenstein Center. A new back stop behind home plate will also be installed.
From OhioStateBuckeyes.com
On the other side of the arches, the side facing Borror Drive and the entrance to the stadium, Ohio State’s College World Series years – 1951, 1965, 1966 and 1967 – will be displayed along one end and Ohio State’s Big Ten Conference championship years – 1917, 1924, 1943, 1951, 1955, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1999 and 2001 – will be displayed on the other end.
In addition, “Ohio State” and “Buckeyes” will adorn the tops of the dugouts similar to the way those brands are displayed in the end zones at Ohio Stadium and on the end lines on the basketball floor at the Jerome Schottenstein Center. A new back stop behind home plate will also be installed.
From OhioStateBuckeyes.com
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Buckeyes Down Thundering Herd, 8-1
Ohio State won the final midweek night game of the season with an 8-1 decision over Marshall Wednesday at Bill Davis Stadium. The Buckeyes now turn their attention to a four-game homestand against Illinois this weekend.
The teams managed to play five innings in a steady rain and had to endure a 22-minute delay between the top and bottom of the second inning. After the delay, Ohio State scored four runs. Ryan Dew led off with a double and Brian DeLucia drove him in with a double of his own. A single by Dan Burkhart plated DeLucia. Tyler Engle doubled putting runners at second and third for Tony Kennedy who singled up the middle to score two more.
Marshall scored its lone run in the top of the third, but Ohio State countered with one in the fourth and three in the fifth. The Buckeyes finsihed the game with 10 hits, including two each by DeLucia, Engle and Justin Miller. Cory Rupert drove in two. Miller and Rupert each hit home runs.
The Herd had just three hits against Buckeye pitching. Andrew Armstrong got the start and the win in 4.0 innings. Alex Wimmers pitched 1.0 inning.
After the Big Ten series with Illinois, the Buckeyes close out the home portion of the schedule against Buffalo Tuesday at 12:05 p.m. in the annual Columbus Public Schools Day.
The teams managed to play five innings in a steady rain and had to endure a 22-minute delay between the top and bottom of the second inning. After the delay, Ohio State scored four runs. Ryan Dew led off with a double and Brian DeLucia drove him in with a double of his own. A single by Dan Burkhart plated DeLucia. Tyler Engle doubled putting runners at second and third for Tony Kennedy who singled up the middle to score two more.
Marshall scored its lone run in the top of the third, but Ohio State countered with one in the fourth and three in the fifth. The Buckeyes finsihed the game with 10 hits, including two each by DeLucia, Engle and Justin Miller. Cory Rupert drove in two. Miller and Rupert each hit home runs.
The Herd had just three hits against Buckeye pitching. Andrew Armstrong got the start and the win in 4.0 innings. Alex Wimmers pitched 1.0 inning.
After the Big Ten series with Illinois, the Buckeyes close out the home portion of the schedule against Buffalo Tuesday at 12:05 p.m. in the annual Columbus Public Schools Day.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Eight League Games Remain
After losing three of four to league-leading Michigan this weekend in Ann Arbor, the Buckeyes find themselves tied for fourth with eight games remaining in Big Ten play. Ohio State plays host to Illinois next weekend after a Wednesday date vs. Marshall. The following week, the Buckeyes head to Iowa (Thursday through Sunday) after the final regular-season home game against Buffalo on Tuesday (CPS Day at 12:05 p.m.).
Illinois is 13-10 and is in third place in the standings while Iowa is 8-16, which is tied with Minnesota for ninth.
Big Ten Standings (through Sunday)
1. Michigan 20-4
2. Purdue 17-6
3. Illinois 13-10
T4. Ohio State 11-12
T4. Northwestern 11-12
6. Penn State 11-13
7. Michigan State 10-13
8. Indiana 8-15
T9. Iowa 8-16
T9. Minnesota 8-16
The Buckeyes have a losing record in Big Ten play and are just three games over .500 with 10 games remaining. Todd's Ohio State teams have never had a losing overall record and have won at least 30 games every season.
Let's Go Bucks!
Illinois is 13-10 and is in third place in the standings while Iowa is 8-16, which is tied with Minnesota for ninth.
Big Ten Standings (through Sunday)
1. Michigan 20-4
2. Purdue 17-6
3. Illinois 13-10
T4. Ohio State 11-12
T4. Northwestern 11-12
6. Penn State 11-13
7. Michigan State 10-13
8. Indiana 8-15
T9. Iowa 8-16
T9. Minnesota 8-16
The Buckeyes have a losing record in Big Ten play and are just three games over .500 with 10 games remaining. Todd's Ohio State teams have never had a losing overall record and have won at least 30 games every season.
Let's Go Bucks!
Buckeyes Bombed in Ann Arbor
The way the Buckeyes had played the first three games of the series and with J.B. Shuck on the mound, I don't think anyone could have possibly predicted the shellacking Mighigan put on Ohio State Sunday. The Wolverines flexed their muscles for a 15-1 victory (Box Score) to clinch a 3-1 series victory.
Michigan scored seven in the second inning and sent Shuck to the showers in the fifth, touching him for 11 runs, all earned, on eight hits. The junior from Galion, struck out 11 but walked five in 4.2 innings. Drew Rucinski allowed a run in 1.1 innings. Josh Edgin allowed three runs in 1.0 inning while Jared Strayer was the only Buckeye to escape without a run against in his 1.0 inning.
The Buckeyes didn't score until the top of the ninth on an RBI single by Brian DeLucia that scored Ryan Meade. Michael Arp had two of the Buckeyes' five, yes five, hits. Conversely, Michigan had 14 hits and were unphased by four errors.
I think we're all getting tired of losing to the team up north. With eight Big Ten games remaining the team will be feeling the pressure. The goal at this point is to make the tournament (as one of the top six teams in the league) and defend last year's tournament championship. Michigan seems like a team of destiny this year.
The-Ozone.net Weekend Recap.
Michigan scored seven in the second inning and sent Shuck to the showers in the fifth, touching him for 11 runs, all earned, on eight hits. The junior from Galion, struck out 11 but walked five in 4.2 innings. Drew Rucinski allowed a run in 1.1 innings. Josh Edgin allowed three runs in 1.0 inning while Jared Strayer was the only Buckeye to escape without a run against in his 1.0 inning.
The Buckeyes didn't score until the top of the ninth on an RBI single by Brian DeLucia that scored Ryan Meade. Michael Arp had two of the Buckeyes' five, yes five, hits. Conversely, Michigan had 14 hits and were unphased by four errors.
I think we're all getting tired of losing to the team up north. With eight Big Ten games remaining the team will be feeling the pressure. The goal at this point is to make the tournament (as one of the top six teams in the league) and defend last year's tournament championship. Michigan seems like a team of destiny this year.
The-Ozone.net Weekend Recap.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Bucks Snap Streak with Win vs. Michigan
Ohio State and Michigan split a doubleheader Saturday in Ann Arbor. It was all Wolverines in the first game, 6-1 (Box Score), with the Buckeyes claiming a win in the top of the seventh for 3-2 win in game two (Box Score). The win by the Buckeyes snapped a string of 11 consective regular season losses to Michigan.
Ryan Meade's sacrifice gave the Buckeyes a 1-0 lead in the first inning of game one. They maintained the lead until Michigan scored two in the fifth and four more in the sixth. Dan DeLucia last 3.0 innings and did not allow a run on one hit and struck out three. Alex Wimmers pitched the final 3.0 innings, allowing all six runs on five hits. He struck out one but walked five in falling to 0-2.
Ohio State had just four hits and committed three errors. Michigan had seven hits and one error.
In game two, the Buckeyes scored twice in the first thanks to RBI by Justin Miller and Meade. Michigan tied the game in the bottom of the fifth. The first run scored on a balk but Mike Dufek doubled in the tying run.
Justin Miller drove in the winning run in the top of the seventh inning for his second RBI of the game. Ohio State had eight hits and benefited from four Michigan errors.
Dean Wolosiansky pitched 6.2 innings and allowed both runs on four hits. He struck out three but walked four before handing the ball to Eric Best who got the final out to earn his sixth save of the season. Wolo improved to 7-2.
Ohio State is now 24-20 overall and 11-11 in the Big Ten. The Wolverines are 33-11, 19-4.
The teams close out the series Sunday with a single, nine-inning game at 1:05 p.m.
I appreciate all the help from RockyBuckeye and BaseballBucks33 today while I was away from my computer. This was my 100th post as a blogger. Thanks for your support! Be sure to tell your friends about the site.
Ryan Meade's sacrifice gave the Buckeyes a 1-0 lead in the first inning of game one. They maintained the lead until Michigan scored two in the fifth and four more in the sixth. Dan DeLucia last 3.0 innings and did not allow a run on one hit and struck out three. Alex Wimmers pitched the final 3.0 innings, allowing all six runs on five hits. He struck out one but walked five in falling to 0-2.
Ohio State had just four hits and committed three errors. Michigan had seven hits and one error.
In game two, the Buckeyes scored twice in the first thanks to RBI by Justin Miller and Meade. Michigan tied the game in the bottom of the fifth. The first run scored on a balk but Mike Dufek doubled in the tying run.
Justin Miller drove in the winning run in the top of the seventh inning for his second RBI of the game. Ohio State had eight hits and benefited from four Michigan errors.
Dean Wolosiansky pitched 6.2 innings and allowed both runs on four hits. He struck out three but walked four before handing the ball to Eric Best who got the final out to earn his sixth save of the season. Wolo improved to 7-2.
Ohio State is now 24-20 overall and 11-11 in the Big Ten. The Wolverines are 33-11, 19-4.
The teams close out the series Sunday with a single, nine-inning game at 1:05 p.m.
I appreciate all the help from RockyBuckeye and BaseballBucks33 today while I was away from my computer. This was my 100th post as a blogger. Thanks for your support! Be sure to tell your friends about the site.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Bad Guys Win 4-1
Michigan rode the arm of Zach Putnam, who went the distance, in a 4-1 win over Ohio State Friday in the series opener and the dedication game of a renovated Ray Fisher Stadium (Box Score).
Big Ten Network Highlights
The Buckeyes scored their only run in the first inning on a bases-loaded ground out by Zach Hurley. That would be it for Ohio State.
Michigan got on the board in the bottom of the second and took the lead in the fourth before added two insurance runs in the seventh. The Buckeyes got a runner to third in the top of the seventh, but with two out, a ground out ended any threat.
J.B. Shuck had four the Buckeyes' seven hits, all singles. Michigan, too, had seven hits, all singles by seven different players. OSU starter Jake Hale went 6.1 innings and allowed all four runs (three earned) and all seven hits in getting his second loss of the season against five wins. Alex Wimmers pitched 0.2 hitless/scoreless innings and Eric Best pitched did the same over an innings.
Ohio State slipped to 23-19 overall and is now an even 10-10 in Big Ten play. Putnam improved to 6-0 with the win as Michigan improved to 32-10 and 18-3. With rain in the Ann Arbor forecast tomorrow night, the doubleheader has been moved up to a 1:05 p.m. first pitch.
I'm curious to hear what you think of the new place Michigan baseball calls home. I've already heard from a couple of people who made the trip. The entrance is nice. The press box is nice. The grandstand is "okay." But one person made it clear, "this is not Bill Davis Stadium." If you made the trip this weekend, first, behave yourself, and second, please send me photos.
Big Ten Network Highlights
The Buckeyes scored their only run in the first inning on a bases-loaded ground out by Zach Hurley. That would be it for Ohio State.
Michigan got on the board in the bottom of the second and took the lead in the fourth before added two insurance runs in the seventh. The Buckeyes got a runner to third in the top of the seventh, but with two out, a ground out ended any threat.
J.B. Shuck had four the Buckeyes' seven hits, all singles. Michigan, too, had seven hits, all singles by seven different players. OSU starter Jake Hale went 6.1 innings and allowed all four runs (three earned) and all seven hits in getting his second loss of the season against five wins. Alex Wimmers pitched 0.2 hitless/scoreless innings and Eric Best pitched did the same over an innings.
Ohio State slipped to 23-19 overall and is now an even 10-10 in Big Ten play. Putnam improved to 6-0 with the win as Michigan improved to 32-10 and 18-3. With rain in the Ann Arbor forecast tomorrow night, the doubleheader has been moved up to a 1:05 p.m. first pitch.
I'm curious to hear what you think of the new place Michigan baseball calls home. I've already heard from a couple of people who made the trip. The entrance is nice. The press box is nice. The grandstand is "okay." But one person made it clear, "this is not Bill Davis Stadium." If you made the trip this weekend, first, behave yourself, and second, please send me photos.
B9 Q&A with Tony Kennedy
Prior to this season, fifth-year senior Tony Kennedy had made 65 starts and all but one of them had been split between second and third base. The other start was as the team's designated hitter. This season he has made a switch to the outfield. It took him a while to get used to the nuances that come with the position and he took some grief from his teammates at first, but he is willing to do what it takes to help the team win.That was what was so tough for him last week when he was tearing it up at the plate. In the four games at Northwestern he batted .647 with 11 hits and eight runs scored. Obviously, he was thrilled with his individual effort but was disappointing to come away with a split. He had an incredible April, going 30-for-79 (.379) with 19 runs scored. In six games last week, he raised his average from .306 (seventh on the team) going into the midweek doubleheader vs. Akron April 23 to .356 (fourth on the team) after the four games at Northwestern.
Now, the team heads to first-place Michigan for a four-game series struggling a bit, just a game above .500 and a fourth-place slot behind the Wolverines, Purdue and Illinois. Just a half game out of third, the Buckeyes have just a half-game lead ahead of Penn State and Northwestern for the final of six spots in this year's Big Ten tournament. The Buckeyes have won two of the last three and four of the last six conference tournament titles, including last year in Ann Arbor.
Kennedy, who graduated from Bloomington (Ind.) South High School, chose Ohio State partly because of its success on the baseball diamond. The Buckeyes have been the most successful team in the Big Ten under head coach Bob Todd and set the league record for conference wins at 25. Michigan is on pace to break the record but rather than try to worry about what Michigan can accomplish, the part-time disc jockey is more worried about getting his young Buckeye teammates concentrate on their own game. If everything could come together this weekend, it would be sweet music in the ears of Buckeye fans.
B9: You had quite a weekend last weekend, batting .647 with 11 hits and eight runs scored? You're a monster. What's the deal?
TK: "Last weekend was bittersweet. I saw the ball pretty well with us getting to face a pitching staff dominated by lefties from Northwestern, but we were only able to win two out of four games. I was able to get the pitches I wanted to hit and was fortunate to get a few hits to fall in for me with the wind blowing like crazy all weekend. I hope to continue it this weekend against our rivals, Michigan."
B9: Why do you think you are having success at the plate?
TK: "Lately I have been able to relax at the plate and get in a groove. Sometimes as a hitter you just have weeks where the pitcher ends up throwing the pitch you're looking for and are able to keep a consistent approach at the plate, giving you a good chance to get a hit. Those are the times as a hitter you hope to get as many at bats as you can, so you can take advantage of the recent confidence you've developed at the plate."
B9: You were a veteran infielder now roaming the outfield. Talk about the adjustment?
TK: "The adjustment was a little crazy at first because I was not familiar with any of the nuances of playing outfield, but I initially took an aggressive, open-minded approach to learning outfield and I think that has helped me a lot in the long run. In general, the position switch has given me a fresh new outlook on the game, which has allowed me to relax and really enjoy my last year at Ohio State."
B9: Did you take much grief from your teammates about moving out there?
TK: "Yea, there have been times where I have looked like a fish out of water out there, but the grief they give me is all in jest since they realize how difficult the switch can be. They're so used to me being at different positions on the infield the past couple years that I still don't think they're used to seeing me out there. The most difficult obstacle to overcome has been allowing myself to not get caught up in expectations and instead just be aggressive and focus on playing the game."
B9: What is the mindset of the team as it prepares for the Michigan series? They seem to have Ohio State's number lately?
TK: "Our mindset is and has always been to focus on playing our game regardless of who we are playing. The rivalry with Michigan has always added a little emotion to the game, but we feel like as a team no matter who we are playing as long as we concentrate on playing all phases of the game well, we should be successful. Since I have been at Ohio State I cannot remember taking a regular season series from Michigan, so as a fifth-year senior it will be important to do my best to change that while I still can."
B9: Michigan is on pace to obliterate OSU's record of 25 wins in conference play. They have 17 wins with 12 games remaining. Would you like a big weekend to help keep them from matching or surpassing that total?
TK: "Regardless of what records Michigan can accomplish for the whole Big Ten season, we need to come out and do our part this weekend. It's great that OSU still holds that record, but as long as we do our job on the field this weekend we should make it as hard as possible for Michigan to challenge the record."
B9: How do you keep the team focused down the stretch?
TK: "Especially with our team being as young as it is, it will be a continuing challenge to maintain consistency down the stretch. A lot of the younger guys are not used to playing this many games and going through the demanding Big Ten weekly schedule, so it will be important for the seniors especially to help everyone stay focused on playing one game at a time. As a whole, the schedule can be tough mentally, but as long as we take it one game and week at a time, keeping a consistent approach should be an attainable goal."
B9: Is the lack of power a concern?
TK: "I wouldn't call it a concern, its just part of our team's makeup. A lot of us have gap-to-gap, line-drive type swings that aren't tailored to hit the ball out of the park. We rely mostly on our ability to find holes through the infield and utilize our team speed. With that being said, it can be hard to come from behind when a team lacks power, but we know that and try to make up for it by getting leads early."
B9: Who is faster on the team, you or J.B. Shuck?
TK: "We have similar speed and have never raced one on one before. Contrary to what was earlier reported, I'm willing to race him to find out though."
B9: How did a guy from Bloomington, Ind., end up at Ohio State?
TK: "A lot of the influence came from Ohio State being one of the best baseball programs in the Midwest. I come from a Big Ten background having lived in both Champaign, Ill. (University of Illinois) and Bloomington, Ind. (Indiana University), so the campus was a good fit for me. Combine that with a lot of family living in Columbus, Ohio, most notably my Grandpa who has always been a big influence, and it ended up being a great fit for me athletically, academically and logistically."
B9: Do you still DJ?
TK: "I tried my best to DJ as much as my schedule would allow this fall and winter. I really enjoy being able to play music I like for my friends and be able to watch them have fun, which is why DJ-ing has always been fun for me. Unfortunately between school work and baseball I haven't had as much time as I would have liked to pursue it, so it remains a fun hobby of mine that I do on the side occasionally."
B9: What is your DJ nickname?
TK: "I've always been known as the Great White DJ (GWDJ). Ever since 4th grade, yes it actually began that early, I have been known by my close friends as the person to go to for new music. One thing I cannot stand is the way the radio overplays songs to a point where a song gets annoying. Ever since I developed that pet peeve I've always tried my very best to stay ahead of radio when it comes to discovering music."
Photo courtesy of Megan Levins' Facebook page.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Weekend Hype: Ohio State at Michigan
Ohio State Buckeyes
(23-18, 10-9 Big Ten)
at
Michigan Wolverines
(31-17; 17-3 Big Ten)
Weekend Schedule
Friday: 6:35 p.m., ET
Saturday (DH): 4:05 p.m., ET
Sunday: 1:05 p.m., ET
Following the Team
As usual, the audio broadcast for all four games will be available for a fee at ohiostatebuckeyes.com. AM 920 WMNI will have games one, two and four. The Big Ten Network has the opening game of the series on Friday, the dedication game of Michigan’s renovated Fisher Stadium. Ohiostatebuckeyes.com will also offer live stats (free of charge).
Probable Starters from ohiostatebuckeyes.com
G1: RHP Jake Hale (5-1, 4.62 ERA) vs. RHP Zach Putnam (5-0; 3.02 ERA)
G2: LHP Dan DeLucia (1-3, 5.77) vs. RHP Chris Fetter (7-1, 2.73 ERA)
G3: RHP Dean Wolosiansky (6-2, 2.84) vs. RHP Travis Smith (4-1, 3.82 ERA)
G4: LHP J.B. Shuck (4-2, 2.86) vs. LHP Mike Wilson (2-4, 8.80 ERA)
Ohio State vs. Michigan
Michigan leads the all-time series, by Ohio State’s count, 154-89-2. The series began in 1895, thus making Michigan Ohio State’s oldest Big Ten baseball rival. The two teams have met in series play every year since 1981, the first season the Big Ten went to the four-game series format. If you haven’t seen my post from Tuesday about the recent trend in the rivalry, you’ll want to check it out.
Buckeye Bullets
• Dean Wolosiansky and J.B. Shuck are fourth and fifth, respectively, in the Big Ten in ERA, while Wolosiansky and Jake Hale are second and third in wins.
• J.B. Shuck, 4-2 on the mound with a 2.86 ERA and 54 strikeouts in 50.1 innings, missed his first start this season in game four vs. Northwestern to rest a sore leg.
• The team’s longest winning streak this season is three games (on four occasions) and the longest stretch of losses is four.
• The pitching staff has a 4.09 ERA in conference games; 4.50 overall. Those figures each rank second in the Big Ten.
• Ohio State is sixth in the Big Ten in league games with a .307 batting average and third overall at .325.
• In Big Ten games, Ohio State’s staff is first with 69 earned runs allowed, second in opposing batting average (.262) and hits allowed (168).
• Ohio State is 8-2 in Big Ten games when it out-hits its opponent; 0-6 when out-hit.
• Also in Big Ten action: Ohio Sate is 9-1 when leading after six innings; 1-7 when trailing.
• Ohio State pinch hitters are 13-for-34 (.382), led by Ryan Dew and Michael Arp (each are 4-for-7; .571). Opponent pinch hitters have had virtually no success against Ohio State pitching (5-for-33; .152).
• OSU is 18-2 when leading after six innings; 3-11 when trailing.
Big Ten Standings
Michigan 17-3
Purdue 16-4
Illinois 11-9
Ohio State 10-9
Northwestern 10-10
Penn State 10-10
Michigan St. 7-12
Indiana 6-14
Iowa 6-14
Minnesota 6-14
Games Around the Big Ten this Weekend
Ohio State at Michigan; Northwestern at Illinois, Minnesota at Iowa, Michigan State at Penn State, and Purdue at Indiana. Sounds like the last football weekend in November and could be as exciting. Um, did you see the Gophers and Hawkeyes are battling to stay out of last place?
Go Bucks! Beat Michigan!
(23-18, 10-9 Big Ten)
at
Michigan Wolverines
(31-17; 17-3 Big Ten)
Weekend Schedule
Friday: 6:35 p.m., ET
Saturday (DH): 4:05 p.m., ET
Sunday: 1:05 p.m., ET
Following the Team
As usual, the audio broadcast for all four games will be available for a fee at ohiostatebuckeyes.com. AM 920 WMNI will have games one, two and four. The Big Ten Network has the opening game of the series on Friday, the dedication game of Michigan’s renovated Fisher Stadium. Ohiostatebuckeyes.com will also offer live stats (free of charge).
Probable Starters from ohiostatebuckeyes.com
G1: RHP Jake Hale (5-1, 4.62 ERA) vs. RHP Zach Putnam (5-0; 3.02 ERA)
G2: LHP Dan DeLucia (1-3, 5.77) vs. RHP Chris Fetter (7-1, 2.73 ERA)
G3: RHP Dean Wolosiansky (6-2, 2.84) vs. RHP Travis Smith (4-1, 3.82 ERA)
G4: LHP J.B. Shuck (4-2, 2.86) vs. LHP Mike Wilson (2-4, 8.80 ERA)
Ohio State vs. Michigan
Michigan leads the all-time series, by Ohio State’s count, 154-89-2. The series began in 1895, thus making Michigan Ohio State’s oldest Big Ten baseball rival. The two teams have met in series play every year since 1981, the first season the Big Ten went to the four-game series format. If you haven’t seen my post from Tuesday about the recent trend in the rivalry, you’ll want to check it out.
Buckeye Bullets
• Dean Wolosiansky and J.B. Shuck are fourth and fifth, respectively, in the Big Ten in ERA, while Wolosiansky and Jake Hale are second and third in wins.
• J.B. Shuck, 4-2 on the mound with a 2.86 ERA and 54 strikeouts in 50.1 innings, missed his first start this season in game four vs. Northwestern to rest a sore leg.
• The team’s longest winning streak this season is three games (on four occasions) and the longest stretch of losses is four.
• The pitching staff has a 4.09 ERA in conference games; 4.50 overall. Those figures each rank second in the Big Ten.
• Ohio State is sixth in the Big Ten in league games with a .307 batting average and third overall at .325.
• In Big Ten games, Ohio State’s staff is first with 69 earned runs allowed, second in opposing batting average (.262) and hits allowed (168).
• Ohio State is 8-2 in Big Ten games when it out-hits its opponent; 0-6 when out-hit.
• Also in Big Ten action: Ohio Sate is 9-1 when leading after six innings; 1-7 when trailing.
• Ohio State pinch hitters are 13-for-34 (.382), led by Ryan Dew and Michael Arp (each are 4-for-7; .571). Opponent pinch hitters have had virtually no success against Ohio State pitching (5-for-33; .152).
• OSU is 18-2 when leading after six innings; 3-11 when trailing.
Big Ten Standings
Michigan 17-3
Purdue 16-4
Illinois 11-9
Ohio State 10-9
Northwestern 10-10
Penn State 10-10
Michigan St. 7-12
Indiana 6-14
Iowa 6-14
Minnesota 6-14
Games Around the Big Ten this Weekend
Ohio State at Michigan; Northwestern at Illinois, Minnesota at Iowa, Michigan State at Penn State, and Purdue at Indiana. Sounds like the last football weekend in November and could be as exciting. Um, did you see the Gophers and Hawkeyes are battling to stay out of last place?
Go Bucks! Beat Michigan!
Buckeyes Down Eastern Michigan
I didn't really care much about the outcome of this game going in, but I apologize for not getting something on the blog until this morning. It was a struggle to find Internet access last night, so I opted to wait until now to let you know Ohio State beat Eastern Michigan 15-12 Wednesday night in a wild game at Bill Davis Stadium (Box Score).
The Buckeyes scored one run in the first and exploded for a season-high nine runs in the second for a 10-0 lead. EMU scored four in the third and the Buckeyes got two runs back for a 12-4 advantage. The Eagles tallied five more in the fourth and another in the fifth. Two more scored in the seventh to tie the game.
Seriously?
Thankfully that was all the scoring EMU could do. The Buckeyes responded with two in the bottom of the seventh and scored their final run in the eighth. An bases-loaded, RBI single by redshirt freshman Chris Griffin, son of former Buckeye footballer Duncan and nephew of Archie and Ray, gave the Buckeyes the lead for good in the seventh. It was his most extensive playing time of his career. He entered the game in centerfield for Zach Hurley back in the third.
Cory Rupert's sacrifice capped the Buckeye seventh and Michael Arp drove in the final run of the game with a single to center in the eighth.
Josh Edgin got the start for Ohio State and struck out eight batters through 3.0 innings. He gave up four runs on five hits and walked three. Rory Meister allowed five runs on three hits before handing the ball to Eric Best, who allowed three runs on three hits in 3.0 innings. Alex Wimmers allowed two hits in his 2.0 scoreless innings. The Buckeyes struck out a season-high 18 batters.
Ohio State had 19 hits offensively, 16 singles. The Buckeyes did get a home run from Ryan Meade. Justin Miller led the Buckeye offense with four hits and three RBI. Four others had two hits each, including Meade, Hurley, Dan Burkhart and Tyler Engle.
With this game behind us, bring on the Wolverines. GO BUCKS!
The-Ozone.net Recap and Photo Gallery
I would like to thank BaseballBucks33 for keeping The Buckeye Nine readers informed of the game last night. He left a comment on the previous post. Thanks.
The Buckeyes scored one run in the first and exploded for a season-high nine runs in the second for a 10-0 lead. EMU scored four in the third and the Buckeyes got two runs back for a 12-4 advantage. The Eagles tallied five more in the fourth and another in the fifth. Two more scored in the seventh to tie the game.
Seriously?
Thankfully that was all the scoring EMU could do. The Buckeyes responded with two in the bottom of the seventh and scored their final run in the eighth. An bases-loaded, RBI single by redshirt freshman Chris Griffin, son of former Buckeye footballer Duncan and nephew of Archie and Ray, gave the Buckeyes the lead for good in the seventh. It was his most extensive playing time of his career. He entered the game in centerfield for Zach Hurley back in the third.
Cory Rupert's sacrifice capped the Buckeye seventh and Michael Arp drove in the final run of the game with a single to center in the eighth.
Josh Edgin got the start for Ohio State and struck out eight batters through 3.0 innings. He gave up four runs on five hits and walked three. Rory Meister allowed five runs on three hits before handing the ball to Eric Best, who allowed three runs on three hits in 3.0 innings. Alex Wimmers allowed two hits in his 2.0 scoreless innings. The Buckeyes struck out a season-high 18 batters.
Ohio State had 19 hits offensively, 16 singles. The Buckeyes did get a home run from Ryan Meade. Justin Miller led the Buckeye offense with four hits and three RBI. Four others had two hits each, including Meade, Hurley, Dan Burkhart and Tyler Engle.
With this game behind us, bring on the Wolverines. GO BUCKS!
The-Ozone.net Recap and Photo Gallery
I would like to thank BaseballBucks33 for keeping The Buckeye Nine readers informed of the game last night. He left a comment on the previous post. Thanks.
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