Quick hits from Media Day

I decided to hold off on the highly anticipated 2010 preview until the media were allowed to ask Coach Todd and the players questions to provide the most accurate info. It will come tomorrow. I promise.

Just a few quick hits from media day....

*Coach Todd has said Drew Rucinski will be the closer for the "first couple of weeks.

*Eric Best looks to get a few innings next weekend and slowly return to the staff.

*Andrew Armstrong is still a ways away from returning.

*The Buckeyes Sunday starter is still in the air.

*Ross Oltorik who had been in line for the #3 starter after an outstanding preseason has a lingering shoulder injury, holding him back there.

*A LOT of day to day lineup changes will occur to give the Bucks the best possible line-up against L/R pitchers. Todd said players like Dew and DeLucia will have days off and players like Streng, Griffin, Rupert, Hallberg will all get their share of playing time in the outfield and corner infielding spots.

*Wolosiansky is ready to go after a bit of letdown towards the end of the season. The junior with 18 wins did admit the strain of throwing a lot of midweek games effects his performance.

*Wimmers has worked on his stamina to go later in games. Coach Todd eluded starters will probably go deeper into games these first weekends.

*Freshman Brett McKinney has been very impressive.

*Michael Stephens and Zach Hurley know what is expected of the Bucks and both stated the team worked as hard as possible and are excited.

*Drew Rucinski said he will do what is best for the team and can suceed in any role.

A lot more to come from media day, just some of those notes stood out for me. Really wish I could have spoke to Rupert, Griffin, Hallberg, Kovanda and a host more, but didn't get to make my rounds to everyone. Just means more to come later in the season.

We've arrived... the first week of the season

The season is here. Opening Day is five days way and its time to get serious about the 2010 season. Being previewing the season which will start tomorrow, I wanted to give extra notice on Ohio State having their media day this upcoming Tuesday.

With a chance to talk to the players and coaches on the staff, is there any thoughts, questions, subjects that those out there would like insight/answers to?

Obviously I believe concerns/questions that are at the forefront are:

Health of pitchers; where are Armstrong and Best at?

Pitching rotation/options; Rucinski will be used how? Who replaces Hale if not Rucinski? Best? Midweek guys, Oltorik, McKinney?

Schedule; though the schedule is in line with most years, does Coach Todd fear his team will be untested come Regionals?

Expectations; the spotlight is on Columbus, how is that being used entering the season?

Position changes; DeLucia to the outfield and Dew to first base. Does DeLucia bring more range/stronger arm? (I'd say yes btw)

Are there others out there?