The Florida State Seminoles advances to the 2009 NCAA Super Regionals, ending Ohio State's season by winning 37-6. The 37 runs is the most ever allowed in Ohio State history, and clearly an embarassment to every associated with Ohio State baseball in every possible way.
The Buckeyes season will end the year at 42-19 with a Big Ten Championship and NCAA Regional berth.
Sadly seniors Jake Hale, Michael Arp, and Justin Miller saw their careers as Buckeyes come to an end.
There are a lot of issues that need to be addressed. Now is not the time to do so. Thank you to Arp, Hale, and Miller for all they have done and contributed to the Buckeye baseball program. The season did start to right the ship and there are a few things to build upon. There are also a lot that needs corrected.
I will probably skip the recap and everything else associated with this weekend. If for whatever reason you have the urge to relive it, leave a comment, I'll provide links but that'll be the extent.
At Ohio State it is week 10 and finally the last week of the quarter, I have quite a bit of work to do, I've been a bit lax this quarter with basebal, and next week we have finals.
If any All-American honors or pressing news comes through I will post. I will eventually do a season recap or story, but that will take time.
The next major event is June 9th, the 2009 MLB draft and news will be surely added then. Good luck to those draft eligible.
Thanks again to all Buckeyes for their efforts this season and congrats on your 2009 Big Ten Championship.
*On a non-Ohio State note, I am working on and trying to establish a new site for Ohio baseball, covering everything from summer leagues, to the minors, MLB, and obviously collegiate. I'll let you know how that will turn out. I don't think this season will be the end for me and the Buckeye Nine, I cannot make any promises however with hopefully my graduation being this time next year. Thank you to all who come to the site, your comments, attention, and feedback are very much appreciated.
Showing posts with label Tallahassee Regional. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tallahassee Regional. Show all posts
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Ohio State - Florida State
Coach Todd has chose to go with Jared Strayer to start the game for the Buckeyes.
Florida State will send out Mike McGee, who is also a solid hitter and will bat, no DH for the 'Noles.
Expect the Buckeyes line-up will remain the same.
McGee is 4-2 on the year, ERA of 4.22, 64 IP, 64 K's.... he also is batting .372 with 18 HR and 73 RBI.
Game time is 4:00 and will be on ESPNU. Buckeyes will look to win their third elimination game and spend one more day in Tallahassee.
Florida State will send out Mike McGee, who is also a solid hitter and will bat, no DH for the 'Noles.
Expect the Buckeyes line-up will remain the same.
McGee is 4-2 on the year, ERA of 4.22, 64 IP, 64 K's.... he also is batting .372 with 18 HR and 73 RBI.
Game time is 4:00 and will be on ESPNU. Buckeyes will look to win their third elimination game and spend one more day in Tallahassee.
Buckeyes Knock Out Bulldogs... Revenge is a sweet thing.
Buckeyes win 13-6.
Rucinski picks up his 12th win.
Hale picks up his 18th save.
Stephens with 2 HR's, one inside the park, one a 3-run bomb.
Dew goes 4-for-5.
A beautiful day all around.
Buckeyes will turn around and play the host Seminoles at 4:00.
Rucinski picks up his 12th win.
Hale picks up his 18th save.
Stephens with 2 HR's, one inside the park, one a 3-run bomb.
Dew goes 4-for-5.
A beautiful day all around.
Buckeyes will turn around and play the host Seminoles at 4:00.
OSU Athletics: Buckeyes Defeat Marist, Meet Georgia Again
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Ohio State defeated Marist, 6-4, in an NCAA Tallahassee Regional elimination game behind key hits from Michael Arp and Ryan Dew and flawless work out of the bullpen. The Buckeyes, now 41-18 on the season, play at noon Sunday against Georgia, an 8-2 loser Saturday to Florida State.
“I think the key today was our playing good defense,” Ohio State coach Bob Todd said. “We didn’t give them any second opportunities with zero errors and three double plays. So we win and get to play another day.”
Senior closer Jake Hale extended his single season saves record by pitching 2.0 shutdown innings for his 17th save this season and he set a new Ohio State career mark with his 28th career save.
“Jake has been one of the best relief pitchers we have had at Ohio State and he is possibly the best in the nation this year,” Todd said.
“But the unsung hero has been the middle inning relief work of Drew Rucinski. He has done outstanding work for us all season, including today when he didn’t allow any hits or runs in 1.2 innings of work.”
Dew had a three-run triple in the second inning that erased a 2-0 Marist lead and Arp scored the winning run in the sixth inning after a leadoff double.
Ohio State starting pitcher Dean Wolosiansky was seeking to become only the third Buckeye to win 12 or more games in a season, and he kept the Buckeyes in the game by working 5.1 innings. He left with a man on in the sixth and the score tied 4-all, giving way to Rucinski.
Rucinski retired the first five batters he faced to get the Buckeyes into the eighth inning with the lead. As he has done all season, Rucinski did his job before giving way to Hale, and today he picked up his 11th win of the season – remarkably all in relief – to tie Wolosiansky and five other Buckeyes for fourth-place on Ohio State’s all-time single season wins list.
Hale threw two pitches in the eighth inning and got three outs...a double play on his first pitch and a flyout to right on his second. He then set the side down in order in the ninth to set the school career saves record with 28 for his career.
Marist scored first with two runs in the second inning. The inning could have been worse had third baseman Justin Miller not made a nice lunging stab at a low shot to his left to start a textbook 5-4-3 double play to end the inning.
The team’s school record 26th triple of the season was the big blow in a four-run third inning that put Ohio State into the lead, 4-2. After Cory Kovanda singled – the 24th time in the last 26 game he has registered a hit – and Michael Stephens and Dan Burkhart drew walks, Dew ripped B.J. Martin’s (5-6) first pitch down the right field line for a bases-clearing triple. Miller then drove Dew home with a sacrifice fly.
Marist closed to within one at 4-3 by scratching a run out in the fourth on a single, balk, ground out and sacrifice fly. And then in the fifth the Red Foxes tied the score on a solo home run by George Agostini, his second of the year.
The Buckeyes came right back. Arp hustled for a double after hitting a ball over the third baseman’s head to lead off the sixth and was sacrificed to third by Tyler Engle. Matt Streng sent a deep ball to center that Jon Schwind made a terrific catch on, but Arp scored on the play to put the Buckeyes back on top, 5-4.
After Miller and Arp drew walks to lead off the eighth and moved up on Engle’s sac bunt, Ohio State added an insurance run when Streng singled to right, scoring Miller and making the score 6-4.
In the ninth, Hale got a called third strike to open the inning, a blooper to third was out No. 2 and a fly ball was out No. 3 that gave the Buckeyes another game and Hale sole ownership of both of Ohio State’s saves records
Recap & Game Notes
Box Score
“I think the key today was our playing good defense,” Ohio State coach Bob Todd said. “We didn’t give them any second opportunities with zero errors and three double plays. So we win and get to play another day.”
Senior closer Jake Hale extended his single season saves record by pitching 2.0 shutdown innings for his 17th save this season and he set a new Ohio State career mark with his 28th career save.
“Jake has been one of the best relief pitchers we have had at Ohio State and he is possibly the best in the nation this year,” Todd said.
“But the unsung hero has been the middle inning relief work of Drew Rucinski. He has done outstanding work for us all season, including today when he didn’t allow any hits or runs in 1.2 innings of work.”
Dew had a three-run triple in the second inning that erased a 2-0 Marist lead and Arp scored the winning run in the sixth inning after a leadoff double.
Ohio State starting pitcher Dean Wolosiansky was seeking to become only the third Buckeye to win 12 or more games in a season, and he kept the Buckeyes in the game by working 5.1 innings. He left with a man on in the sixth and the score tied 4-all, giving way to Rucinski.
Rucinski retired the first five batters he faced to get the Buckeyes into the eighth inning with the lead. As he has done all season, Rucinski did his job before giving way to Hale, and today he picked up his 11th win of the season – remarkably all in relief – to tie Wolosiansky and five other Buckeyes for fourth-place on Ohio State’s all-time single season wins list.
Hale threw two pitches in the eighth inning and got three outs...a double play on his first pitch and a flyout to right on his second. He then set the side down in order in the ninth to set the school career saves record with 28 for his career.
Marist scored first with two runs in the second inning. The inning could have been worse had third baseman Justin Miller not made a nice lunging stab at a low shot to his left to start a textbook 5-4-3 double play to end the inning.
The team’s school record 26th triple of the season was the big blow in a four-run third inning that put Ohio State into the lead, 4-2. After Cory Kovanda singled – the 24th time in the last 26 game he has registered a hit – and Michael Stephens and Dan Burkhart drew walks, Dew ripped B.J. Martin’s (5-6) first pitch down the right field line for a bases-clearing triple. Miller then drove Dew home with a sacrifice fly.
Marist closed to within one at 4-3 by scratching a run out in the fourth on a single, balk, ground out and sacrifice fly. And then in the fifth the Red Foxes tied the score on a solo home run by George Agostini, his second of the year.
The Buckeyes came right back. Arp hustled for a double after hitting a ball over the third baseman’s head to lead off the sixth and was sacrificed to third by Tyler Engle. Matt Streng sent a deep ball to center that Jon Schwind made a terrific catch on, but Arp scored on the play to put the Buckeyes back on top, 5-4.
After Miller and Arp drew walks to lead off the eighth and moved up on Engle’s sac bunt, Ohio State added an insurance run when Streng singled to right, scoring Miller and making the score 6-4.
In the ninth, Hale got a called third strike to open the inning, a blooper to third was out No. 2 and a fly ball was out No. 3 that gave the Buckeyes another game and Hale sole ownership of both of Ohio State’s saves records
Recap & Game Notes
Box Score
Columbus Dispatch: OSU Gets Rematch With Bulldogs
I haven't been feeling well, and its week 10, the last week of the quarter, being slammed with 3 papers and not feeling the best sucks. Sorry. I'll have more but need to get something up.
Columbus Dispatch
No. 9 batter Matt Streng drove in two key runs in the late innings and Jake Hale pitched two innings for the save as Ohio State remained alive in the NCAA baseball tournament with a 6-4 win over Marist in Tallahassee, Fla.
Drew Rucinski pitched 1 2/3 scoreless innings for the win and Ryan Dew drove in three runs with a third-inning triple for the third-seeded Buckeyes (41-18), who will play Georgia (38-23) in an elimination game at noon today. The Bulldogs, who lost to Florida State 8-2 yesterday, beat the Buckeyes 24-8 on Friday.
"We live for another day," Buckeyes coach Bob Todd said. "I wouldn't exactly say it was pretty but we did what we needed to do. I think the key was our playing good defense. We didn't give them any second opportunities with zero errors and three double plays."
Ohio State fell behind 2-0 in the second inning when Marist right fielder Kyle Meyer hit a two-run single. The Buckeyes scored four times in the third inning, three on Dew's triple down the right-field line. Dew then scored on Justin Miller's sacrifice fly.
Marist (31-28) rallied against starter Dean Wolosiansky to tie the score at 4 in the sixth inning before Ohio State took the lead for good in the bottom half of the inning. Michael Arp doubled leading off, went to third on Tyler Engle's bunt and came home on Streng's sacrifice fly.
The Buckeyes avoided trouble in the eighth with help from Hale and their defense. Rucinski (11-2) walked Brian McDonough leading off and gave way to Hale, who coaxed Ryan Gauck to hit into a double play, then got George Agostini to line out.
Ohio State added a run in the bottom of the eighth when Streng singled through the right side to score Miller for a 6-4 lead. Hale then pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning for his 17th save of the season and school-record 28th of his career.
"Jake is, in my opinion, one of the best relief pitchers we've had at Ohio State and maybe in the country," Todd said. "We're something like 33-1 or 34-1 when we throw him in a ball game with a lead."
Columbus Dispatch
No. 9 batter Matt Streng drove in two key runs in the late innings and Jake Hale pitched two innings for the save as Ohio State remained alive in the NCAA baseball tournament with a 6-4 win over Marist in Tallahassee, Fla.
Drew Rucinski pitched 1 2/3 scoreless innings for the win and Ryan Dew drove in three runs with a third-inning triple for the third-seeded Buckeyes (41-18), who will play Georgia (38-23) in an elimination game at noon today. The Bulldogs, who lost to Florida State 8-2 yesterday, beat the Buckeyes 24-8 on Friday.
"We live for another day," Buckeyes coach Bob Todd said. "I wouldn't exactly say it was pretty but we did what we needed to do. I think the key was our playing good defense. We didn't give them any second opportunities with zero errors and three double plays."
Ohio State fell behind 2-0 in the second inning when Marist right fielder Kyle Meyer hit a two-run single. The Buckeyes scored four times in the third inning, three on Dew's triple down the right-field line. Dew then scored on Justin Miller's sacrifice fly.
Marist (31-28) rallied against starter Dean Wolosiansky to tie the score at 4 in the sixth inning before Ohio State took the lead for good in the bottom half of the inning. Michael Arp doubled leading off, went to third on Tyler Engle's bunt and came home on Streng's sacrifice fly.
The Buckeyes avoided trouble in the eighth with help from Hale and their defense. Rucinski (11-2) walked Brian McDonough leading off and gave way to Hale, who coaxed Ryan Gauck to hit into a double play, then got George Agostini to line out.
Ohio State added a run in the bottom of the eighth when Streng singled through the right side to score Miller for a 6-4 lead. Hale then pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning for his 17th save of the season and school-record 28th of his career.
"Jake is, in my opinion, one of the best relief pitchers we've had at Ohio State and maybe in the country," Todd said. "We're something like 33-1 or 34-1 when we throw him in a ball game with a lead."
Friday, May 29, 2009
Following the Georgia Game
I have not come across a site that will provide live streaming video of yet.
However your options are plenty.
The interactive NCAA Tourney Bracket pretty much has every tool you could think of. Gametracker, audio, stats, leaders, etc.
Also the game will be on the radio courtesy WTDA.. I actually just typed WMNI ha.. but back to WTDA, they do offer live streaming audio so you can hear the guys we're used to hearing all season long, Brian Mannino, Marty Bannister, Frank Fraas, Bob Spears, whoever is in Tallahassee.
There is also the The Buckeye Nine on Twitter that I will update throughout the day.
If video is available I'll post it.
However your options are plenty.
The interactive NCAA Tourney Bracket pretty much has every tool you could think of. Gametracker, audio, stats, leaders, etc.
Also the game will be on the radio courtesy WTDA.. I actually just typed WMNI ha.. but back to WTDA, they do offer live streaming audio so you can hear the guys we're used to hearing all season long, Brian Mannino, Marty Bannister, Frank Fraas, Bob Spears, whoever is in Tallahassee.
There is also the The Buckeye Nine on Twitter that I will update throughout the day.
If video is available I'll post it.
Yahoo Sports/Rivals.com Tallahassee Regional Preview
Rivals.com Kendall Rogers breaksdown the Tallahassee Regional
The Road to Omaha has begun and it all starts with NCAA regional play this weekend.
In our latest regional insider, we take a look at the Tallahassee regional, where Florida State is fuming after being left out of the national seed mix.
Florida State is the most balanced team in the field and the favorite to advance to next week’s NCAA super regional round. Mike McGee and Tyler Holt lead the offense and Sean Gilmartin and Brian Busch spearhead the pitching staff.
Georgia has failed to meet expectations down the stretch but is very dangerous, Big Ten champion Ohio State has one of the nation’s best pitchers in Alex Wimmers and Marist hopes to hit its way to a few surprises.
We preview the Tallahassee regional.
The Favorite: Florida State
There’s not going to be a team more motivated this week than Florida State. The Seminoles essentially won the ACC regular season title and also played well in the ACC tournament. The NCAA committee, though, felt they weren’t worthy of a national seed. The Seminoles are hitting .312. FSU also has a 4.67 earned run average. Tyler Holt, Mike McGee, Stephen Cardullo and Jason Stidham lead the offense. Holt is leading the team with a .388 batting average and a .515 on-base percentage. McGee is hitting .376 with 15 doubles, one triple, 17 homers and 68 RBIs, Cardullo is hitting .362 with 10 homers and 38 RBIs and Stidham is hitting .351 with 21 doubles, 11 homers and 63 RBIs. Sean Gilmartin, Brian Busch and Mike McGee lead the FSU pitching staff.
The Darkhorse: Georgia
The Bulldogs are a scary team in this regional. There’s no question they failed to meet expectations down the stretch. But remember that this team was ranked No. 1 at one point this season. The Bulldogs are hitting .290 and have a 4.79 earned run average. Rich Poythress leads the offense and freshman Colby May is having a good season. May is hitting .336 with 11 homers and 41 RBIs. Also keep an eye on power hitters Bryce Massanari and Joey Lewis and versatile outfielder Matt Cerione. On the mound, Justin Grimm has been Georgia’s most consistent pitcher down the stretch and senior right-hander Trevor Holder has the ability to be dominant. Georgia’s offense must return to its old self to win this regional.
The Best Hitter: Georgia 1B Rich Poythress
It was a close call between Poythress and Florida State outfielder Mike McGee. Poythress has struggled the past few weeks, but still is one of the nation’s best hitters. The first baseman enters the regional hitting .370 with 16 doubles, 21 homers and 77 RBIs. He also is slugging .718 and has a .459 on-base percentage. It’s also important to note that Poythress has walked 38 times and struck out in 37 at bats. He leads Georgia with 163 total bases. Much of Georgia’s success hinges on Poythress’s ability to get on base and deliver key hits.
The Best Pitcher: Ohio State RHP Alex Wimmers
Wimmers caught everyone’s attention with a no-hitter against rival Michigan a few weeks ago, but the truth is he has been outstanding the entire season. The right-hander enters the Tallahassee regional 9-1 with a 2.68 ERA in 100 2/3 innings. He also has struck out 131 and walked 48 and opponents are hitting him at a .199 clip. Wimmers also has thrown four complete games for the Buckeyes. He needs to start regional play on the right foot
The Buzz
Florida State lost several key cogs to graduation and the MLB draft last season, but coach Mike Martin has done one of his best coaching jobs this season. All eyes this weekend are on weekend starters Sean Gilmartin, Mike McGee and Brian Busch. Gilmartin is 11-3 with a 3.64 ERA in 84 innings. He also has struck out 75 and walked 35 and opponents are hitting him at a .226 clip. McGee is 5-2 with a 4.22 ERA in 64 innings and Busch is 6-2 with a 4.28 ERA in 80 innings. Teams are hitting .242 off him … Georgia’s offense needs to have a strong weekend and the same goes for the pitching staff with Justin Grimm, Trevor Holder and Alex McRee leading the way. McRee especially needs to rise to the occasion, as he enters the weekend 4-4 with a 6.34 ERA in 55 1/3 innings. Also keep an eye on relievers Dean Weaver and Will Harvil, who have earned run averages of 2.77 and 2.96, respectively … Alex Wimmers is the headliner for the Buckeyes, but keep an eye on the offense, which enters the weekend with a .328 batting average. Ryan Dew leads the team with a .389 average, seven homers and 35 RBIs. Dan Burkhart is hitting .362 with 10 homers and 60 RBIs, Zach Hurley is hitting .349 with six homers and 50 RBIs, Cory Kovanda is hitting .345 with a home run and 34 RBIs and Michael Stephens is hitting .339 with 12 homers and 58 RBIs … Marist enters the Tallahassee regional hitting .292. It also has a 4.78 ERA. The key hitters to watch include Bryce Nugent and Ricky Paclone. Nugent is hitting .324 with eight homers and 42 RBIs and Paclone is hitting .321 with eight homers and 51 RBIs
The Road to Omaha has begun and it all starts with NCAA regional play this weekend.
In our latest regional insider, we take a look at the Tallahassee regional, where Florida State is fuming after being left out of the national seed mix.
Florida State is the most balanced team in the field and the favorite to advance to next week’s NCAA super regional round. Mike McGee and Tyler Holt lead the offense and Sean Gilmartin and Brian Busch spearhead the pitching staff.
Georgia has failed to meet expectations down the stretch but is very dangerous, Big Ten champion Ohio State has one of the nation’s best pitchers in Alex Wimmers and Marist hopes to hit its way to a few surprises.
We preview the Tallahassee regional.
The Favorite: Florida State
There’s not going to be a team more motivated this week than Florida State. The Seminoles essentially won the ACC regular season title and also played well in the ACC tournament. The NCAA committee, though, felt they weren’t worthy of a national seed. The Seminoles are hitting .312. FSU also has a 4.67 earned run average. Tyler Holt, Mike McGee, Stephen Cardullo and Jason Stidham lead the offense. Holt is leading the team with a .388 batting average and a .515 on-base percentage. McGee is hitting .376 with 15 doubles, one triple, 17 homers and 68 RBIs, Cardullo is hitting .362 with 10 homers and 38 RBIs and Stidham is hitting .351 with 21 doubles, 11 homers and 63 RBIs. Sean Gilmartin, Brian Busch and Mike McGee lead the FSU pitching staff.
The Darkhorse: Georgia
The Bulldogs are a scary team in this regional. There’s no question they failed to meet expectations down the stretch. But remember that this team was ranked No. 1 at one point this season. The Bulldogs are hitting .290 and have a 4.79 earned run average. Rich Poythress leads the offense and freshman Colby May is having a good season. May is hitting .336 with 11 homers and 41 RBIs. Also keep an eye on power hitters Bryce Massanari and Joey Lewis and versatile outfielder Matt Cerione. On the mound, Justin Grimm has been Georgia’s most consistent pitcher down the stretch and senior right-hander Trevor Holder has the ability to be dominant. Georgia’s offense must return to its old self to win this regional.
The Best Hitter: Georgia 1B Rich Poythress
It was a close call between Poythress and Florida State outfielder Mike McGee. Poythress has struggled the past few weeks, but still is one of the nation’s best hitters. The first baseman enters the regional hitting .370 with 16 doubles, 21 homers and 77 RBIs. He also is slugging .718 and has a .459 on-base percentage. It’s also important to note that Poythress has walked 38 times and struck out in 37 at bats. He leads Georgia with 163 total bases. Much of Georgia’s success hinges on Poythress’s ability to get on base and deliver key hits.
The Best Pitcher: Ohio State RHP Alex Wimmers
Wimmers caught everyone’s attention with a no-hitter against rival Michigan a few weeks ago, but the truth is he has been outstanding the entire season. The right-hander enters the Tallahassee regional 9-1 with a 2.68 ERA in 100 2/3 innings. He also has struck out 131 and walked 48 and opponents are hitting him at a .199 clip. Wimmers also has thrown four complete games for the Buckeyes. He needs to start regional play on the right foot
The Buzz
Florida State lost several key cogs to graduation and the MLB draft last season, but coach Mike Martin has done one of his best coaching jobs this season. All eyes this weekend are on weekend starters Sean Gilmartin, Mike McGee and Brian Busch. Gilmartin is 11-3 with a 3.64 ERA in 84 innings. He also has struck out 75 and walked 35 and opponents are hitting him at a .226 clip. McGee is 5-2 with a 4.22 ERA in 64 innings and Busch is 6-2 with a 4.28 ERA in 80 innings. Teams are hitting .242 off him … Georgia’s offense needs to have a strong weekend and the same goes for the pitching staff with Justin Grimm, Trevor Holder and Alex McRee leading the way. McRee especially needs to rise to the occasion, as he enters the weekend 4-4 with a 6.34 ERA in 55 1/3 innings. Also keep an eye on relievers Dean Weaver and Will Harvil, who have earned run averages of 2.77 and 2.96, respectively … Alex Wimmers is the headliner for the Buckeyes, but keep an eye on the offense, which enters the weekend with a .328 batting average. Ryan Dew leads the team with a .389 average, seven homers and 35 RBIs. Dan Burkhart is hitting .362 with 10 homers and 60 RBIs, Zach Hurley is hitting .349 with six homers and 50 RBIs, Cory Kovanda is hitting .345 with a home run and 34 RBIs and Michael Stephens is hitting .339 with 12 homers and 58 RBIs … Marist enters the Tallahassee regional hitting .292. It also has a 4.78 ERA. The key hitters to watch include Bryce Nugent and Ricky Paclone. Nugent is hitting .324 with eight homers and 42 RBIs and Paclone is hitting .321 with eight homers and 51 RBIs
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Baseball America Tallahassee Regional Preview
BA's Aaron Fitt and John Manuel in their weekly podcast discuss the right half of the bracket, which includes the Tallahassee Regional. Fitt believes Florida State will win the regional, but Ohio State on the strength of Wimmers.
BA Podcast
Baseball America written preview:
Dick Howser Stadium, Tallahassee, Fla. (Host: Florida State)
No. 1 Florida State (42-16)
47th appearance, at-large, Atlantic Coast Conference regular-season champion
No. 2 Georgia (37-22)
Ninth appearance, at-large, sixth place in Southeastern Conference
No. 3 Ohio State (40-17)
10th appearance, at-large, Big Ten Conference regular-season champion
No. 4 Marist (31-26)
Sixth appearance, automatic, Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference regular-season champion
Florida State suffered significant losses from its 2008 College World Series team—including national Player of the Year Buster Posey and its entire weekend rotation—but still won the ACC's regular-season title by feasting on the bottom third of the league. The Seminoles went just 7-9 in the regular season against teams that made the ACC tournament, but they went 12-0 against the four teams that did not qualify for the conference tourney. As usual, FSU was a much better club at Dick Howser Stadium (going 30-6) than on the road (9-8), so it was huge for the 'Noles to earn a home regional. Florida State's lineup features five very dangerous hitters in outfielders Tyler Holt (.388/.515/.556 with 32 stolen bases) and Mike McGee (.376/.484/.751 with 17 homers and 68 RBIs) plus infielders Stephen Cardullo (.362/.481/.604 with 10 homers and 18 steals), Jason Stidham (.351/.459/.629 with 11 homers and 63 RBIs) and Stuart Tapley (.301/.434/.580). Defense was FSU's Achilles' heel last year, but the defense has solidified this year since the steady Cardullo assumed starting shortstop duties. Florida State lacks power arms and experience on the mound, but freshman lefties Sean Gilmartin (11-3, 3.64) and Brian Busch (6-2, 4.28) are good competitors who will keep the Seminoles in most games.
Georgia lost two All-Americans from its 2008 national runner-up squad, and the Bulldogs surely missed the leadership and talent of Gordon Beckham and Joshua Fields down the stretch this year. Georgia reached No. 8 in the BA rankings after winning a series against Arkansas in mid-April, but the Bulldogs proceeded to lose their next four series to finish the regular season in sixth place. The biggest reason for the slide is pitching: senior righthander Trevor Holder (7-4, 4.34) and junior lefty Alex McRee (4-4, 6.34) both struggled down the stretch, and the bullpen had trouble closing out wins. Georgia still has more power arms on its staff than almost any team in the nation, which makes it hard to reconcile its 4.79 team ERA. But if those arms get hot in the postseason, the Bulldogs are capable of making another deep run. The offense has had its own issues, producing two or fewer runs in six Georgia losses down the stretch, but it is capable of breaking out any time if sluggers Rich Poythress (.370 with 21 homers and 77 RBIs) and Bryce Massanari (.321 with 19 homers and 57 RBIs) can return to midseason form.
Ohio State is the anti-Georgia: while the Bulldogs have gone to Omaha in 2002, '04, '06 and '08 but struggled in the odd years, OSU has made regionals in every odd year since 1991 (with a few trips in even years sprinkled in). The Buckeyes won a hotly contested Big Ten regular-season crown by sweeping Iowa in the final weekend, but a 1-2 performance in the conference tournament and a soft nonconference schedule caused them to land a No. 3 seed in regionals. Ohio State's biggest assets are the bookends of its pitching staff: sophomore righthander Alex Wimmer (9-1, 2.68) at the front and senior closer Jake Hale (1.12 ERA, 16 saves) at the back. Wimmers has a win against Miami and a no-hitter on his 2009 resume, and he could carve up Georgia with his three-pitch mix in the opener. Ohio State lacks offensive star power, but it has solid college hitters up and down the lineup, led by catcher Dan Burkhart (.362/.436/.612 with 10 homers and 60 RBIs).
Marist finished the MAAC regular season in third place but stunned the league's two powers in the conference tournament, beating preseason favorite Canisius twice and top-seeded Manhattan once. The Red Foxes aren't in the same class as the other teams in this regional from a talent perspective, but they feature a scrappy leadoff man in shortstop Richard Curylo (.333/.403/.437), a solid No. 3 hitter in third baseman Ricky Pacione (.321/.411/.531 with eight homers and 51 RBIs), and a reliable closer in senior righthander Jacob Wiley (9-1, 2.65 with six saves). It would be a major surprise for Marist to win a game this weekend.
The more that I think about this regional, kinda disappointed this is not 2008. Probably the top two players last season, Posey and Georgia's Gordon Beckham would be here and that'd be incredible. Anyone who followed the Buckeye Nine last season knows I was pumping Beckham a lot and he didn't let me down carrying UGA to Omaha. But this is 2009 and its the Buckeyes year... just helps those studs won't be in Tally.
BA Podcast
Baseball America written preview:
Dick Howser Stadium, Tallahassee, Fla. (Host: Florida State)
No. 1 Florida State (42-16)
47th appearance, at-large, Atlantic Coast Conference regular-season champion
No. 2 Georgia (37-22)
Ninth appearance, at-large, sixth place in Southeastern Conference
No. 3 Ohio State (40-17)
10th appearance, at-large, Big Ten Conference regular-season champion
No. 4 Marist (31-26)
Sixth appearance, automatic, Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference regular-season champion
Florida State suffered significant losses from its 2008 College World Series team—including national Player of the Year Buster Posey and its entire weekend rotation—but still won the ACC's regular-season title by feasting on the bottom third of the league. The Seminoles went just 7-9 in the regular season against teams that made the ACC tournament, but they went 12-0 against the four teams that did not qualify for the conference tourney. As usual, FSU was a much better club at Dick Howser Stadium (going 30-6) than on the road (9-8), so it was huge for the 'Noles to earn a home regional. Florida State's lineup features five very dangerous hitters in outfielders Tyler Holt (.388/.515/.556 with 32 stolen bases) and Mike McGee (.376/.484/.751 with 17 homers and 68 RBIs) plus infielders Stephen Cardullo (.362/.481/.604 with 10 homers and 18 steals), Jason Stidham (.351/.459/.629 with 11 homers and 63 RBIs) and Stuart Tapley (.301/.434/.580). Defense was FSU's Achilles' heel last year, but the defense has solidified this year since the steady Cardullo assumed starting shortstop duties. Florida State lacks power arms and experience on the mound, but freshman lefties Sean Gilmartin (11-3, 3.64) and Brian Busch (6-2, 4.28) are good competitors who will keep the Seminoles in most games.
Georgia lost two All-Americans from its 2008 national runner-up squad, and the Bulldogs surely missed the leadership and talent of Gordon Beckham and Joshua Fields down the stretch this year. Georgia reached No. 8 in the BA rankings after winning a series against Arkansas in mid-April, but the Bulldogs proceeded to lose their next four series to finish the regular season in sixth place. The biggest reason for the slide is pitching: senior righthander Trevor Holder (7-4, 4.34) and junior lefty Alex McRee (4-4, 6.34) both struggled down the stretch, and the bullpen had trouble closing out wins. Georgia still has more power arms on its staff than almost any team in the nation, which makes it hard to reconcile its 4.79 team ERA. But if those arms get hot in the postseason, the Bulldogs are capable of making another deep run. The offense has had its own issues, producing two or fewer runs in six Georgia losses down the stretch, but it is capable of breaking out any time if sluggers Rich Poythress (.370 with 21 homers and 77 RBIs) and Bryce Massanari (.321 with 19 homers and 57 RBIs) can return to midseason form.
Ohio State is the anti-Georgia: while the Bulldogs have gone to Omaha in 2002, '04, '06 and '08 but struggled in the odd years, OSU has made regionals in every odd year since 1991 (with a few trips in even years sprinkled in). The Buckeyes won a hotly contested Big Ten regular-season crown by sweeping Iowa in the final weekend, but a 1-2 performance in the conference tournament and a soft nonconference schedule caused them to land a No. 3 seed in regionals. Ohio State's biggest assets are the bookends of its pitching staff: sophomore righthander Alex Wimmer (9-1, 2.68) at the front and senior closer Jake Hale (1.12 ERA, 16 saves) at the back. Wimmers has a win against Miami and a no-hitter on his 2009 resume, and he could carve up Georgia with his three-pitch mix in the opener. Ohio State lacks offensive star power, but it has solid college hitters up and down the lineup, led by catcher Dan Burkhart (.362/.436/.612 with 10 homers and 60 RBIs).
Marist finished the MAAC regular season in third place but stunned the league's two powers in the conference tournament, beating preseason favorite Canisius twice and top-seeded Manhattan once. The Red Foxes aren't in the same class as the other teams in this regional from a talent perspective, but they feature a scrappy leadoff man in shortstop Richard Curylo (.333/.403/.437), a solid No. 3 hitter in third baseman Ricky Pacione (.321/.411/.531 with eight homers and 51 RBIs), and a reliable closer in senior righthander Jacob Wiley (9-1, 2.65 with six saves). It would be a major surprise for Marist to win a game this weekend.
The more that I think about this regional, kinda disappointed this is not 2008. Probably the top two players last season, Posey and Georgia's Gordon Beckham would be here and that'd be incredible. Anyone who followed the Buckeye Nine last season knows I was pumping Beckham a lot and he didn't let me down carrying UGA to Omaha. But this is 2009 and its the Buckeyes year... just helps those studs won't be in Tally.
9-Innings with Warchant.com's Ira Schoffel
As yesterday with David Ching, sports editor for the Athens Banner-Herald, to seek out the best information on the teams in the Tallahassee Regional, why not get as close to the source as possible? For those unaware, shame on you for not reading earlier posts, warchant.com is the Rivals.com site for Florida State. The baseball message board the The SBOMB is a great way to read up and get views, thoughts, and opinions on Florida State baseball.
Without further delay here the 9-Innings with Schoffel.
1st Inning...
B9: Section B?! Give us Buckeye fans a quick background on the "animals"..
IS: The Animals of Section B are a legendary and passionate group of Florida State baseball fans who have been around the program in some fashion or another since the late 1970s. They're often loud, rowdy, and they can make life miserable for an opponent. My advice to any visitor is to play nice with them. If they sense that their antics are getting under a player's or coach's skin, they can be relentless. But at the same time, they are very knowledgeable fans and truly appreciate good baseball. So opposing pitchers routinely receive loud ovations for gutty performances. Bottom line: As a visiting fan, you're not always going to like the things the Animals do and say, but if you love college baseball, you'll appreciate their passion. Check out SectionB.com for information about their traditions. (That way you might not need to ask why they're singing the Canadian national anthem in the fifth inning.)
Second Inning..
B9: Obviously the Seminoles have put together a solid season being able to be a # 1 seed and hosting in an NCAA Regional. What has been the catalyst or force leading the way?
IS: That's a real tough question, because this team doesn't have one major strong suit. The pitching has been solid, but not overwhelming. The defense has been decent, but not spectacular. The offense has been better than anyone expected, but the bottom third of the lineup has really struggled of late. If there's any one key to their success, it's that they have great chemistry and just find ways to win. They have made a number of late comebacks this season, and they've won with different strategies. They've played small ball. They've hit for power when they've needed to. They're capable of stealing bases. They may not be great at anything, but they're scrappy and pretty good at most everything.
Third Inning...
B9: On the counter, any weaknesses the Seminoles have or obstacles that could keep them from winning the regional?
IS: As I mentioned earlier, the bottom third of the lineup is a real concern. They have struggled to produce much of anything lately, and you can't just surrender a full inning of offense three or four times a game. The pitching staff has been impressive in the second half of the season, but you always have to worry about the unexpected when you're throwing freshman pitchers out there for the first two games of a regional.
Fourth Inning...
B9: 2008 Golden Spikes award winner and #8 overall pick Buster Posey left a big hole in the line-up I'm sure. How has coach Martin replace the void left? Or with a player of Buster's capabilities is it unfair for the production to be reproduced by one or two athletes?
IS: They haven't replaced it yet and won't any time soon. Buster Posey's 2008 season was one of those years that a team might experience once in a couple decades. The guy came within a hair of claiming the national triple crown. Surprisingly, FSU's power numbers aren't far from what they were a year ago. The biggest drop-offs have been in team batting average – hard to overcome the loss of Posey's .463 – and on defense. Posey was an exceptional catcher, and FSU has battled inconsistency with young backstops Rafael Lopez and Parker Brunelle.
Fifth Inning...
B9: What were your reaction when the regional draw was released?
IS: I wasn't too surprised to see Georgia sent here; that had been predicted by a lot of the analysts. Ohio State was a little out of the blue from a geography standpoint, but it's always fun to see teams from different parts of the country. I think it will be good for the folks down here to see what the Big Ten has to offer, and it will be interesting to compare some of the top teams from three major conferences. At the same time, Florida State's fans and players learned last year that all four teams must be respected – No. 4 seed Bucknell came into Dick Howser Stadium and blanked FSU in the first game of last year's regional.
Sixth Inning...
B9: What players in the Garnet and Gold should we watch out for or are keys to FSU's success this weekend?
IS: On offense, keep an eye out for leadoff man Tyler Holt. When he's hot, it seems like he reaches base seven or eight times a game. He landed in a slump recently, but he batted over .400 for most of the season. And when he's on base, he will put pressure on the defense with his speed and fearlessness. Freshman left-hander Sean Gilmartin has been sensational as a rookie, winning 11 games and earning first-team All-ACC. He will start FSU's second game, meaning he will go against the winner of the OSU-Georgia game if the Seminoles get past Marist. Gilmartin is not overpowering, but he is a tough competitor and has very good command.
Seventh Inning...
B9: For the fans of all three schools traveling to Tallahassee what can they expect in terms of an atmosphere?
IS: I'm a little curious what effect the early game times will have on the crowds for Friday. I don't have very high hopes for that noon game Friday, but most of the other games will be very well-attended. If Florida State makes it through to the championship round, the atmosphere will be as good as it is at any school in the country – crowds exceeding 4,000 or more. And the Animals, of course, add a little extra flair.
Eigth Inning..
B9: For Florida State to reach Omaha they must.... And they can not....
IS: They must get quality starts from freshman pitchers Brian Busch and Sean Gilmartin. The Seminoles have a solid bullpen, but I don't think they want to reach into it too early. If Busch and Gilmartin can pitch into the sixth or seventh inning those first two games, FSU should be in very good position.
They can not squander offensive opportunities. This lineup isn't explosive enough to have what happened to them in the ACC championship game, when they failed to score late with the bases loaded and one out. This team has to do a great job of advancing runners and driving them in whenever they get the chance.
Last at-bat...
B9: Five words that summarize the Florida State baseball program are...
IS: Consistent. Proud. Tough. Polished. Classy.
As always, the Buckeye Nine appreciates Schoffel's time and efforts in sitting down and providing insight to the site. Hop on over to warchant.com sometime this weekend if you haven't already and show our appreciate. Thanks again to Schoffel.
Without further delay here the 9-Innings with Schoffel.
1st Inning...
B9: Section B?! Give us Buckeye fans a quick background on the "animals"..
IS: The Animals of Section B are a legendary and passionate group of Florida State baseball fans who have been around the program in some fashion or another since the late 1970s. They're often loud, rowdy, and they can make life miserable for an opponent. My advice to any visitor is to play nice with them. If they sense that their antics are getting under a player's or coach's skin, they can be relentless. But at the same time, they are very knowledgeable fans and truly appreciate good baseball. So opposing pitchers routinely receive loud ovations for gutty performances. Bottom line: As a visiting fan, you're not always going to like the things the Animals do and say, but if you love college baseball, you'll appreciate their passion. Check out SectionB.com for information about their traditions. (That way you might not need to ask why they're singing the Canadian national anthem in the fifth inning.)
Second Inning..
B9: Obviously the Seminoles have put together a solid season being able to be a # 1 seed and hosting in an NCAA Regional. What has been the catalyst or force leading the way?
IS: That's a real tough question, because this team doesn't have one major strong suit. The pitching has been solid, but not overwhelming. The defense has been decent, but not spectacular. The offense has been better than anyone expected, but the bottom third of the lineup has really struggled of late. If there's any one key to their success, it's that they have great chemistry and just find ways to win. They have made a number of late comebacks this season, and they've won with different strategies. They've played small ball. They've hit for power when they've needed to. They're capable of stealing bases. They may not be great at anything, but they're scrappy and pretty good at most everything.
Third Inning...
B9: On the counter, any weaknesses the Seminoles have or obstacles that could keep them from winning the regional?
IS: As I mentioned earlier, the bottom third of the lineup is a real concern. They have struggled to produce much of anything lately, and you can't just surrender a full inning of offense three or four times a game. The pitching staff has been impressive in the second half of the season, but you always have to worry about the unexpected when you're throwing freshman pitchers out there for the first two games of a regional.
Fourth Inning...
B9: 2008 Golden Spikes award winner and #8 overall pick Buster Posey left a big hole in the line-up I'm sure. How has coach Martin replace the void left? Or with a player of Buster's capabilities is it unfair for the production to be reproduced by one or two athletes?
IS: They haven't replaced it yet and won't any time soon. Buster Posey's 2008 season was one of those years that a team might experience once in a couple decades. The guy came within a hair of claiming the national triple crown. Surprisingly, FSU's power numbers aren't far from what they were a year ago. The biggest drop-offs have been in team batting average – hard to overcome the loss of Posey's .463 – and on defense. Posey was an exceptional catcher, and FSU has battled inconsistency with young backstops Rafael Lopez and Parker Brunelle.
Fifth Inning...
B9: What were your reaction when the regional draw was released?
IS: I wasn't too surprised to see Georgia sent here; that had been predicted by a lot of the analysts. Ohio State was a little out of the blue from a geography standpoint, but it's always fun to see teams from different parts of the country. I think it will be good for the folks down here to see what the Big Ten has to offer, and it will be interesting to compare some of the top teams from three major conferences. At the same time, Florida State's fans and players learned last year that all four teams must be respected – No. 4 seed Bucknell came into Dick Howser Stadium and blanked FSU in the first game of last year's regional.
Sixth Inning...
B9: What players in the Garnet and Gold should we watch out for or are keys to FSU's success this weekend?
IS: On offense, keep an eye out for leadoff man Tyler Holt. When he's hot, it seems like he reaches base seven or eight times a game. He landed in a slump recently, but he batted over .400 for most of the season. And when he's on base, he will put pressure on the defense with his speed and fearlessness. Freshman left-hander Sean Gilmartin has been sensational as a rookie, winning 11 games and earning first-team All-ACC. He will start FSU's second game, meaning he will go against the winner of the OSU-Georgia game if the Seminoles get past Marist. Gilmartin is not overpowering, but he is a tough competitor and has very good command.
Seventh Inning...
B9: For the fans of all three schools traveling to Tallahassee what can they expect in terms of an atmosphere?
IS: I'm a little curious what effect the early game times will have on the crowds for Friday. I don't have very high hopes for that noon game Friday, but most of the other games will be very well-attended. If Florida State makes it through to the championship round, the atmosphere will be as good as it is at any school in the country – crowds exceeding 4,000 or more. And the Animals, of course, add a little extra flair.
Eigth Inning..
B9: For Florida State to reach Omaha they must.... And they can not....
IS: They must get quality starts from freshman pitchers Brian Busch and Sean Gilmartin. The Seminoles have a solid bullpen, but I don't think they want to reach into it too early. If Busch and Gilmartin can pitch into the sixth or seventh inning those first two games, FSU should be in very good position.
They can not squander offensive opportunities. This lineup isn't explosive enough to have what happened to them in the ACC championship game, when they failed to score late with the bases loaded and one out. This team has to do a great job of advancing runners and driving them in whenever they get the chance.
Last at-bat...
B9: Five words that summarize the Florida State baseball program are...
IS: Consistent. Proud. Tough. Polished. Classy.
As always, the Buckeye Nine appreciates Schoffel's time and efforts in sitting down and providing insight to the site. Hop on over to warchant.com sometime this weekend if you haven't already and show our appreciate. Thanks again to Schoffel.
Buckeye Grove: Buckeyes Face Tough Road in Tallahassee Regional
COLUMBUS – Ohio State won't be facing the best team in the Tallahassee regional Friday when they take on second-seeded Georgia, but they will get to test their metal against a team that was ranked No. 1 in the country earlier this season.
Picked as the preseason favorites in the SEC, the Bulldogs opened the 2009 season ranked No. 4 in the country after finishing as the runner-up to National Champion Fresno State in last year's College World Series. They beat N.C. State in a best-of-three Super Regional before knocking off Miami (Fla.) and Stanford on their way to the best-of-three championship series. Oddly enough, however, they lost the opening game of their regional tournament 10-7 to Lipscomb on their own field.
Much like the Buckeyes, who began the season 18-3, the Dawgs were on fire to start the year. They opened this season with a school-record 14 consecutive wins, earning their way from fourth all the way to first in the national rankings in just 18 days. In fact, they were so good in the early part of the season that it wasn't until 12 games into the year – or 101 innings – before Georgia finally found itself trailing at the end of an inning.
Game Information:
What: The NCAA Tallahassee Regional
Who: No. 3-seed Ohio State (40-17; 18-6/Big Ten Champion) vs. No. 2-seed Georgia (37-22; 15-15/3rd SEC East)
Where: Dick Howser Stadium; Tallahassee, Fla.
When: Friday, May 29, 12 noon ET; ESPNU
That winning streak came to an end on the opening weekend of SEC play, as the Bulldogs were dropped twice by Alabama in the opening two games of their series in Tuscaloosa, Ala. They fell to third in the rankings, but it would short lived as Georgia moved back into the top spot a week later after sweeping Mississippi State. They held on to the No. 1 ranking for 23 of the next 30 days behind some of the best hitting in coach David Perno's tenure.
The Bulldogs were averaging just over 64 home runs per season in Perno's seven years with the program, but they belted 98 roundtrippers this season thanks in big part to first baseman Rich Poythress. The first-team all-SEC slugger finished third in the conference with 21 long balls this season and he needs just one RBI to break Gordon Beckham's single-season school record 77 RBI set last year.
"The one thing I have noticed is they've hit a lot of home runs and they've struck out a lot," said Ohio State head coach Bob Todd. "It looks like to me they're not getting cheated at the plate."
While they finished fourth in the SEC in home runs – which should give you an idea just how good of a hitting conference it is – the Bulldogs struck out a league-high 503 times as a team this season, 19 more than anyone else in the conference. By comparison, the Buckeyes struck out only 283 times all season.
"I like to tell our guys that hitters can get lucky sometimes; so that can obviously happen when you have guys with their ability to not only hit the ball hard, but hit it out of the ballpark," OSU pitching coach Eric Parker said. "You can make a good pitch, and with aluminum, have someone get lucky here and there."
As the strikeouts began to rack up for Georgia, so did the losses late in the season. They finished the season going 4-13 in their last 17 regular season contests thanks to an eight-game losing streak that included a three-game sweep at the hands of Florida in Athens. They rebounded to win their first two games of the SEC Tournament over Ole Miss and Arkansas before getting thumped 16-0 by LSU in the first of two straight losses to the Tigers.
The Buckeyes also lost the final two games of their conference tournament, but the Buckeyes feel like they can hit with most teams in the country. Their .330 batting average was tops in the Big Ten and their 63 home runs this season are over a third more than the previous two years combined (40) and more than any Ohio State team has hit in nine of the last 10 years.
"All year we're been putting up big runs," right fielder Michael Arp said. "We've just got to worry about playing at the best of our ability. You can't really be afraid of what the other team is going to do. If Ohio State plays Ohio State baseball, we're going to beat a lot of teams.
If the Buckeyes get by Georgia, they would likely face regional-host Florida State, assuming they get by Marist in their opening game.
Game notes:
• The Bulldogs are making their 10th NCAA postseason appearance in school history including the fifth under coach David Perno.
• Ohio State is 40-37 all-time in NCAA tournament play, including districts, regionals, super regionals and CWS games. Coach Bob Todd's teams are 19-24 in NCAA play.
• OSU scored 10 or more runs 18 times but allowed 10 or more runs 12 times.
• Sad but true: Ohio State led the big Ten with 62 home runs this season. That total would have been good enough for eighth in the SEC.
• Turning logic around: The Buckeyes have hit 25 triples this season; no team in the SEC had more than 17 triples as a team. Georgia has hit only nine three-baggers all season.
Picked as the preseason favorites in the SEC, the Bulldogs opened the 2009 season ranked No. 4 in the country after finishing as the runner-up to National Champion Fresno State in last year's College World Series. They beat N.C. State in a best-of-three Super Regional before knocking off Miami (Fla.) and Stanford on their way to the best-of-three championship series. Oddly enough, however, they lost the opening game of their regional tournament 10-7 to Lipscomb on their own field.
Much like the Buckeyes, who began the season 18-3, the Dawgs were on fire to start the year. They opened this season with a school-record 14 consecutive wins, earning their way from fourth all the way to first in the national rankings in just 18 days. In fact, they were so good in the early part of the season that it wasn't until 12 games into the year – or 101 innings – before Georgia finally found itself trailing at the end of an inning.
Game Information:
What: The NCAA Tallahassee Regional
Who: No. 3-seed Ohio State (40-17; 18-6/Big Ten Champion) vs. No. 2-seed Georgia (37-22; 15-15/3rd SEC East)
Where: Dick Howser Stadium; Tallahassee, Fla.
When: Friday, May 29, 12 noon ET; ESPNU
That winning streak came to an end on the opening weekend of SEC play, as the Bulldogs were dropped twice by Alabama in the opening two games of their series in Tuscaloosa, Ala. They fell to third in the rankings, but it would short lived as Georgia moved back into the top spot a week later after sweeping Mississippi State. They held on to the No. 1 ranking for 23 of the next 30 days behind some of the best hitting in coach David Perno's tenure.
The Bulldogs were averaging just over 64 home runs per season in Perno's seven years with the program, but they belted 98 roundtrippers this season thanks in big part to first baseman Rich Poythress. The first-team all-SEC slugger finished third in the conference with 21 long balls this season and he needs just one RBI to break Gordon Beckham's single-season school record 77 RBI set last year.
"The one thing I have noticed is they've hit a lot of home runs and they've struck out a lot," said Ohio State head coach Bob Todd. "It looks like to me they're not getting cheated at the plate."
While they finished fourth in the SEC in home runs – which should give you an idea just how good of a hitting conference it is – the Bulldogs struck out a league-high 503 times as a team this season, 19 more than anyone else in the conference. By comparison, the Buckeyes struck out only 283 times all season.
"I like to tell our guys that hitters can get lucky sometimes; so that can obviously happen when you have guys with their ability to not only hit the ball hard, but hit it out of the ballpark," OSU pitching coach Eric Parker said. "You can make a good pitch, and with aluminum, have someone get lucky here and there."
As the strikeouts began to rack up for Georgia, so did the losses late in the season. They finished the season going 4-13 in their last 17 regular season contests thanks to an eight-game losing streak that included a three-game sweep at the hands of Florida in Athens. They rebounded to win their first two games of the SEC Tournament over Ole Miss and Arkansas before getting thumped 16-0 by LSU in the first of two straight losses to the Tigers.
The Buckeyes also lost the final two games of their conference tournament, but the Buckeyes feel like they can hit with most teams in the country. Their .330 batting average was tops in the Big Ten and their 63 home runs this season are over a third more than the previous two years combined (40) and more than any Ohio State team has hit in nine of the last 10 years.
"All year we're been putting up big runs," right fielder Michael Arp said. "We've just got to worry about playing at the best of our ability. You can't really be afraid of what the other team is going to do. If Ohio State plays Ohio State baseball, we're going to beat a lot of teams.
If the Buckeyes get by Georgia, they would likely face regional-host Florida State, assuming they get by Marist in their opening game.
Game notes:
• The Bulldogs are making their 10th NCAA postseason appearance in school history including the fifth under coach David Perno.
• Ohio State is 40-37 all-time in NCAA tournament play, including districts, regionals, super regionals and CWS games. Coach Bob Todd's teams are 19-24 in NCAA play.
• OSU scored 10 or more runs 18 times but allowed 10 or more runs 12 times.
• Sad but true: Ohio State led the big Ten with 62 home runs this season. That total would have been good enough for eighth in the SEC.
• Turning logic around: The Buckeyes have hit 25 triples this season; no team in the SEC had more than 17 triples as a team. Georgia has hit only nine three-baggers all season.
OSU Athletics: Ohio State vs. Georgia at the Tallahassee Regional
COLUMBUS, Ohio - Big Ten Conference champion Ohio State will compete in its 13th NCAA tournament under the direction of coach Bob Todd and the 19th NCAA in school history this weekend as the No. 3 Seed in the Tallahassee Regional.
The 40-17 Buckeyes, ranked 30th this week by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association, meet the No. 2 Seed Georgia Bulldogs, 37-22, in a noon game at Mark Martin Field in Dick Howser Stadium. No. 1 Seed and 42-16 Florida State and No. 4 Seed and 31-26 Marist meet in the 4 p.m. game Friday. The winners of these games play at 4 p.m. Saturday while the two losing teams play in an elimination game at noon Saturday.
THIS WEEK IN OHIO STATE BASEBALL
Ohio State (40-17; 18-6/Big Ten Champion)
at the NCAA Tallahassee Regional
Game 58 vs. Georgia (37-22; 15-15/3rd SEC East)
Friday, May 29, 12 noon
Dick Howser Stadium; Tallahassee, Fla.
Game 59 vs. Marist (31-26; 15-9/MAAC Tourn. Champion)
Saturday, May 30, 12 noon or 4 p.m.
- OR -
Game 59 vs. Florida State (42-16; 19-9/1st ACC Atlantic)
Saturday, May 30, 12 noon or 4 p.m.
TELEVISION
ESPNU (All games)
BROADCAST RADIO
103.9 WTDA Talk FM
INTERNET LIVE STATS
OhioStateBuckeyes.com and Seminoles.com
BROADCAST INFORMATION
All of the games at the Tallahassee Regional will be carried live on ESPNU. The games can be heard locally and over the internet on 103.9 WTDA Talk FM with Frank Fraas and former Buckeye pitcher Bob Spears describing the action.
19th NCAA APPEARANCE
Ohio State is making its 19th NCAA tournament appearance, its 13th under the direction of head coach Bob Todd and first since 2007. No Big Ten team has more NCAA appearances since 1988 (Todd’s first year) and only Minnesota (29 NCAAs) and Michigan (21) have more NCAA appearances among Big Ten teams than Ohio State.
NCAA TOURNAMENT RECORDS
Ohio State is 40-37 all-time in NCAA tournament play, including districts, regionals, super regionals and CWS games. Coach Bob Todd’s teams are 19-24 in NCAA play.
Full OSU Weekly Release
The 40-17 Buckeyes, ranked 30th this week by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association, meet the No. 2 Seed Georgia Bulldogs, 37-22, in a noon game at Mark Martin Field in Dick Howser Stadium. No. 1 Seed and 42-16 Florida State and No. 4 Seed and 31-26 Marist meet in the 4 p.m. game Friday. The winners of these games play at 4 p.m. Saturday while the two losing teams play in an elimination game at noon Saturday.
THIS WEEK IN OHIO STATE BASEBALL
Ohio State (40-17; 18-6/Big Ten Champion)
at the NCAA Tallahassee Regional
Game 58 vs. Georgia (37-22; 15-15/3rd SEC East)
Friday, May 29, 12 noon
Dick Howser Stadium; Tallahassee, Fla.
Game 59 vs. Marist (31-26; 15-9/MAAC Tourn. Champion)
Saturday, May 30, 12 noon or 4 p.m.
- OR -
Game 59 vs. Florida State (42-16; 19-9/1st ACC Atlantic)
Saturday, May 30, 12 noon or 4 p.m.
TELEVISION
ESPNU (All games)
BROADCAST RADIO
103.9 WTDA Talk FM
INTERNET LIVE STATS
OhioStateBuckeyes.com and Seminoles.com
BROADCAST INFORMATION
All of the games at the Tallahassee Regional will be carried live on ESPNU. The games can be heard locally and over the internet on 103.9 WTDA Talk FM with Frank Fraas and former Buckeye pitcher Bob Spears describing the action.
19th NCAA APPEARANCE
Ohio State is making its 19th NCAA tournament appearance, its 13th under the direction of head coach Bob Todd and first since 2007. No Big Ten team has more NCAA appearances since 1988 (Todd’s first year) and only Minnesota (29 NCAAs) and Michigan (21) have more NCAA appearances among Big Ten teams than Ohio State.
NCAA TOURNAMENT RECORDS
Ohio State is 40-37 all-time in NCAA tournament play, including districts, regionals, super regionals and CWS games. Coach Bob Todd’s teams are 19-24 in NCAA play.
Full OSU Weekly Release
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Athens Banner-Herald: Diamond Dogs' first foe a tough one
Will face Ohio State to open Tallahassee Regional
David Ching
5/26/2009
David Perno figured his Georgia baseball team would open NCAA Tournament play somewhere in the Southeast when Clemson, Atlanta and Tallahassee were announced as regional sites on Sunday.
His assumption was proven correct on Monday, when the Bulldogs (37-22) were assigned to meet Ohio State (40-17) in Friday's noon opener at the Tallahassee Regional.
The part he didn't expect was his second-seeded Bulldogs opening against a No. 3 seed as difficult as the Big Ten's regular-season champion Buckeyes, led by the league's Co-Pitcher of the Year in Alex Wimmers.
"It's definitely a challenging first-round game I didn't expect. Ohio State's really good with (Wimmers), I do know that," Perno said of the junior right-hander who is 9-1 with a 2.68 ERA, having held opponents to a .199 batting average. "They've got a really good lead guy in their rotation, so we've got to get to work and get prepared."
This is the first time since 2002 that those preparations will be for a regional away from Foley Field, but Perno said the location will not be a significant factor. For one thing, the short right-field porch at Florida State's Dick Howser Stadium plays into the Bulldog power hitters' hands the same way the 314-foot fence at Foley Field can.
For another, Georgia played as well on the road for most of the year as it did at home. Prior to a late-season swoon that saw the Bulldogs lose seven of their final 12 games away from Foley Field, they were 11-3 at road locations.
They finished 16-10 at road and neutral sites and 21-12 at home.
"Obviously you would like to play at home, but we've done well at neutral sites and on the road," Perno said. "I think it kind of fits this team. Less distractions."
The Bulldogs also believe their prior tournament experience can be a major factor as they prepare for another postseason run. Many of Georgia's seniors are preparing for their third postseason, which already includes two College World Series appearances.
Despite a disappointing conclusion to the regular season, which saw Georgia fall from being the nation's No. 1-ranked team to failing to host a regional by losing nine of its last 14 games, the Bulldogs know their wealth of tournament experience can be beneficial.
"Personally and with the team, it's been a tough month in general," Georgia first baseman Rich Poythress said. "We're all back to 0-0 and we're excited to have this opportunity, knowing we're five or six wins away from Omaha just like 63 other teams."
Georgia last visited Tallahassee in 2008, when the Bulldogs and Florida State split a two-game series in early March. The Seminoles (42-16) will open against Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Tournament champ Marist (31-26) at 4 p.m. in Friday's other regional game.
And if postseason experience is truly an asset, Florida State has as much as almost any program in the country. The Seminoles are making their 32nd consecutive postseason appearance, the last 30 of which have come under coach Mike Martin.
Georgia and Florida State have met six times in the postseason, with the Bulldogs owning a 4-2 record. If both teams win their Friday openers, they would meet Saturday at 4 p.m.
The double-elimination regional could run through Monday, when an if-necessary game to settle the region championship would be played at 7 p.m. All Tallahassee Regional games will be televised on ESPNU, with games on Friday, Saturday and Sunday scheduled for either noon or 4 p.m. starts.
David Ching
5/26/2009
David Perno figured his Georgia baseball team would open NCAA Tournament play somewhere in the Southeast when Clemson, Atlanta and Tallahassee were announced as regional sites on Sunday.
His assumption was proven correct on Monday, when the Bulldogs (37-22) were assigned to meet Ohio State (40-17) in Friday's noon opener at the Tallahassee Regional.
The part he didn't expect was his second-seeded Bulldogs opening against a No. 3 seed as difficult as the Big Ten's regular-season champion Buckeyes, led by the league's Co-Pitcher of the Year in Alex Wimmers.
"It's definitely a challenging first-round game I didn't expect. Ohio State's really good with (Wimmers), I do know that," Perno said of the junior right-hander who is 9-1 with a 2.68 ERA, having held opponents to a .199 batting average. "They've got a really good lead guy in their rotation, so we've got to get to work and get prepared."
This is the first time since 2002 that those preparations will be for a regional away from Foley Field, but Perno said the location will not be a significant factor. For one thing, the short right-field porch at Florida State's Dick Howser Stadium plays into the Bulldog power hitters' hands the same way the 314-foot fence at Foley Field can.
For another, Georgia played as well on the road for most of the year as it did at home. Prior to a late-season swoon that saw the Bulldogs lose seven of their final 12 games away from Foley Field, they were 11-3 at road locations.
They finished 16-10 at road and neutral sites and 21-12 at home.
"Obviously you would like to play at home, but we've done well at neutral sites and on the road," Perno said. "I think it kind of fits this team. Less distractions."
The Bulldogs also believe their prior tournament experience can be a major factor as they prepare for another postseason run. Many of Georgia's seniors are preparing for their third postseason, which already includes two College World Series appearances.
Despite a disappointing conclusion to the regular season, which saw Georgia fall from being the nation's No. 1-ranked team to failing to host a regional by losing nine of its last 14 games, the Bulldogs know their wealth of tournament experience can be beneficial.
"Personally and with the team, it's been a tough month in general," Georgia first baseman Rich Poythress said. "We're all back to 0-0 and we're excited to have this opportunity, knowing we're five or six wins away from Omaha just like 63 other teams."
Georgia last visited Tallahassee in 2008, when the Bulldogs and Florida State split a two-game series in early March. The Seminoles (42-16) will open against Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Tournament champ Marist (31-26) at 4 p.m. in Friday's other regional game.
And if postseason experience is truly an asset, Florida State has as much as almost any program in the country. The Seminoles are making their 32nd consecutive postseason appearance, the last 30 of which have come under coach Mike Martin.
Georgia and Florida State have met six times in the postseason, with the Bulldogs owning a 4-2 record. If both teams win their Friday openers, they would meet Saturday at 4 p.m.
The double-elimination regional could run through Monday, when an if-necessary game to settle the region championship would be played at 7 p.m. All Tallahassee Regional games will be televised on ESPNU, with games on Friday, Saturday and Sunday scheduled for either noon or 4 p.m. starts.
9 Innings with Athens Banner-Herald Sports Editor David Ching
Since us here in Columbus know nothing about the Bulldogs, other than the fact stud Gordon Beckham played for them, I figured why not go to one of the best sources possible for the information. Sure I could give stats and numbers and come up with some summary, but it's better to get the thoughts from someone in the know.
In the latest Buckeye Nine 9-Innings, we caught up with David Ching, the sports editor of the Athens Banner-Herald, the hometown newspaper of the Georgia Bulldogs. Enjoy.
First pitch
B9: Just briefly can you gives us Buckeyes a small summary of the season to date? You guys were thought highly of after last years CWS runner-up, has the season gone as expected?
DC: It looked like things were going to go much better than expected early on. Although they were starting five freshmen in the first several games, Georgia started off really hot, went out to Arizona and swept the Wildcats and soon earned the No. 1 ranking in several national polls. They started SEC play hot, too, but started to cool off. About a month ago, they were swept at home by Florida, lost the No. 1 ranking and went into a major tailspin. I think they lost 11 of their last 13 in the regular season because their pitching was pretty bad and their hitting was worse. There's a lot of potential in the lineup, but they've been pretty up and down lately. So I'd say the team's record is about what you would have expected entering the year with so many young contributors, but the way they reached that record was hard to predict.
Second innings
B9: What are the strengths and weaknesses Georgia has shown this season?
DC: They're at their best when they're hitting for power. There are about four or five guys -- most importantly 1B Rich Poythress and C/DH Bryce Massanari, who have about 40 homers between them -- who are power threats. The power comes and goes with them, but they're hard to beat when the guys in the middle of the order are hot. As far as weaknesses, lately they've been highly erratic from the mound -- particularly in the starting rotation. They think they're OK with their top two starters -- Trevor Holder and Justin Grimm, who is expected to start against OSU -- but have no idea who might be worth a start after that.
Headed into the third
B9: Everyone knows about the Poythress, who joins Wimmers as a Golden Spiked finalist, what other players should we watch out for?
DC: Aside from Poythress and Massanari, freshman 3B Colby May has been a star this year. He's started every game and has been one of the team's most consistent hitters all year. Probably the player who acts as the biggest indicator of how the team's playing is CF Matt Cerione. He's the team's emotional leader and is capable of hitting for power. He's often at one extreme or the other between red-hot and awful slumps. He plays hard, though, and is probably the team's most entertaining player to watch.
9 up 9 down
B9: What will be key for Grimm starter to be successful against the Bucks?
DC: Grimm has improved greatly as a sophomore. He was pretty awful last year, but this season he's been getting ahead in counts and racking up the strikeouts. When he's done that, he's been impressive.
Perfect through 4
B9: What reaction did the team was the have once the regional was released?
DC: I think they knew they'd be in either Clemson, Atlanta or Tallahassee. This is a pretty strong foursome, though, and they said as much on Monday. I don't think David Perno was especially happy about the idea of potentially opening the tournament against Alex Wimmers.
Cruisin into the 6th
B9: Even though the team finished a bit in a skid, do you think last years run will prove to be valuable and help Georgia refocus?
DC: I think so. The team's seniors have played in two College World Series and most of the non-freshmen were there last year. They know what it takes to win in the NCAA Tournament, so that experience would have to be valuable.
Streeeetch time at the ballpark (Thats for you Bob Kennedy)
B9: Do Bulldog fans travel well? Do you think a large number will make the 5.5 hour drive from Athens to Tallahassee?
DC: I don't know how many will be coming from Athens, but Tallahassee's only 20 minutes or so from the Georgia state line. I'm sure there are plenty of Georgia fans in South Georgia who will make the trip, since FSU's closer to those parts of Georgia than Athens is.
Call to the pen
B9: For Georgia to return to Omaha they will have to.... And they can not...
DC: The biggest thing Georgia has to do is have a couple of pitchers step up as reliable options, particularly as starting pitchers. They just need a couple of serviceable innings apiece from the bunch. Particularly if they're not getting that, they can't go into the offensive lulls that have plagued them late in the year. They take undisciplined approaches at the plate sometimes and it hurts them.
9th inning
B9: Does Uga make any appearances at baseball games?!
DC: I've never seen him at one, but I'd imagine he might every once in a while. Maybe at a College World Series? Probably not Tallahassee.
Thanks again to Ching for taking the time. The Buckeye Nine will provide any content and coverage the Banner-Herald has on the Tallahassee Regional. Photo of Uga courtesy Georgia Alumni Association
In the latest Buckeye Nine 9-Innings, we caught up with David Ching, the sports editor of the Athens Banner-Herald, the hometown newspaper of the Georgia Bulldogs. Enjoy.
First pitch
B9: Just briefly can you gives us Buckeyes a small summary of the season to date? You guys were thought highly of after last years CWS runner-up, has the season gone as expected?
DC: It looked like things were going to go much better than expected early on. Although they were starting five freshmen in the first several games, Georgia started off really hot, went out to Arizona and swept the Wildcats and soon earned the No. 1 ranking in several national polls. They started SEC play hot, too, but started to cool off. About a month ago, they were swept at home by Florida, lost the No. 1 ranking and went into a major tailspin. I think they lost 11 of their last 13 in the regular season because their pitching was pretty bad and their hitting was worse. There's a lot of potential in the lineup, but they've been pretty up and down lately. So I'd say the team's record is about what you would have expected entering the year with so many young contributors, but the way they reached that record was hard to predict.
Second innings
B9: What are the strengths and weaknesses Georgia has shown this season?
DC: They're at their best when they're hitting for power. There are about four or five guys -- most importantly 1B Rich Poythress and C/DH Bryce Massanari, who have about 40 homers between them -- who are power threats. The power comes and goes with them, but they're hard to beat when the guys in the middle of the order are hot. As far as weaknesses, lately they've been highly erratic from the mound -- particularly in the starting rotation. They think they're OK with their top two starters -- Trevor Holder and Justin Grimm, who is expected to start against OSU -- but have no idea who might be worth a start after that.
Headed into the third
B9: Everyone knows about the Poythress, who joins Wimmers as a Golden Spiked finalist, what other players should we watch out for?
DC: Aside from Poythress and Massanari, freshman 3B Colby May has been a star this year. He's started every game and has been one of the team's most consistent hitters all year. Probably the player who acts as the biggest indicator of how the team's playing is CF Matt Cerione. He's the team's emotional leader and is capable of hitting for power. He's often at one extreme or the other between red-hot and awful slumps. He plays hard, though, and is probably the team's most entertaining player to watch.
9 up 9 down
B9: What will be key for Grimm starter to be successful against the Bucks?
DC: Grimm has improved greatly as a sophomore. He was pretty awful last year, but this season he's been getting ahead in counts and racking up the strikeouts. When he's done that, he's been impressive.
Perfect through 4
B9: What reaction did the team was the have once the regional was released?
DC: I think they knew they'd be in either Clemson, Atlanta or Tallahassee. This is a pretty strong foursome, though, and they said as much on Monday. I don't think David Perno was especially happy about the idea of potentially opening the tournament against Alex Wimmers.
Cruisin into the 6th
B9: Even though the team finished a bit in a skid, do you think last years run will prove to be valuable and help Georgia refocus?
DC: I think so. The team's seniors have played in two College World Series and most of the non-freshmen were there last year. They know what it takes to win in the NCAA Tournament, so that experience would have to be valuable.
Streeeetch time at the ballpark (Thats for you Bob Kennedy)
B9: Do Bulldog fans travel well? Do you think a large number will make the 5.5 hour drive from Athens to Tallahassee?
DC: I don't know how many will be coming from Athens, but Tallahassee's only 20 minutes or so from the Georgia state line. I'm sure there are plenty of Georgia fans in South Georgia who will make the trip, since FSU's closer to those parts of Georgia than Athens is.
Call to the pen
B9: For Georgia to return to Omaha they will have to.... And they can not...
DC: The biggest thing Georgia has to do is have a couple of pitchers step up as reliable options, particularly as starting pitchers. They just need a couple of serviceable innings apiece from the bunch. Particularly if they're not getting that, they can't go into the offensive lulls that have plagued them late in the year. They take undisciplined approaches at the plate sometimes and it hurts them.
9th inning
B9: Does Uga make any appearances at baseball games?!
DC: I've never seen him at one, but I'd imagine he might every once in a while. Maybe at a College World Series? Probably not Tallahassee.
Thanks again to Ching for taking the time. The Buckeye Nine will provide any content and coverage the Banner-Herald has on the Tallahassee Regional. Photo of Uga courtesy Georgia Alumni Association
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Florida State Athletics: Tallahassee Regional Center
Just another site to get all of your information and follow the regional at.
Seminoles.com
Sorry it was a light day here. Obviously a lot of information came out yesterday and was posted when available. Also I was in class from 1025-440, and paying attention so I wasn't really available to spend all day on the laptop.
Tomorrow should have more content.
Seminoles.com
Sorry it was a light day here. Obviously a lot of information came out yesterday and was posted when available. Also I was in class from 1025-440, and paying attention so I wasn't really available to spend all day on the laptop.
Tomorrow should have more content.
Columbus Dispatch: Buckeyes hit the road for NCAA
Todd calls No.3 seed 'little bit of a slap'
Tuesday, May 26, 2009 2:55 AM
By Mark Znidar
The Columbus Dispatch
While his players celebrated making the NCAA Tournament yesterday in the players lounge in Bill Davis Stadium, Ohio State coach Bob Todd was off by himself doing a slow burn.
Todd, who was a member of the tournament selection committee for seven years, thought the Buckeyes deserved to be a No. 1 or No. 2 seed and to play host to a regional tournament.
Instead, Ohio State (40-17) was seeded third and will play second-seeded Georgia (37-22) in a first-round game at noon Friday in Dick Howser Stadium in Tallahassee, Fla. Host and top-seeded Florida State (42-16) will play Marist (31-26) at 4 p.m. in the other game.
The Buckeyes have a 7-7 record against teams that are in the NCAA Tournament, including victories over the University of Miami, Xavier, George Mason, Army and Minnesota.
"It's a little bit of a slap at the Big Ten when your regular season champion gets a third seed," Todd said. "We had a good RPI -- 32. For a team that plays well all year like we did, we should have received strong consideration to get a No. 1 or a No. 2 seed."
Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith bid for a regional tournament. No school from the East or Midwest will play host to one.
The Buckeyes are in the NCAA Tournament for the 13th time since 1991. They played host to first-round tournaments and super regional tournaments in 1999 and 2001 and a super regional in 2003.
"There's such an outcry from people to get regional tournaments in the East, North and Midwest, and they turned their back on it," Todd said. "I know we were not the lowest bid, so money was not a factor. Columbus is a convenient place to get in and out of. It's a logical place to hold a regional. We got great marks for hosting in the past."
The selection committee picked three teams from the Big Ten. Regular-season runner-up Minnesota is second-seeded in the Baton Rouge regional, and conference tournament champion Indiana is seeded fourth at Louisville.
Ohio State players weren't disappointed about having to travel more than 830 miles to play or about which teams they will play.
"You eventually have to play the best, so that doesn't make any difference to us," pitcher Alex Wimmers said. "You just go down there and do what you have to do."
Third baseman Justin Miller said the Buckeyes received another opportunity to show their worth.
"I feel this whole year we couldn't get any love from anybody," he said. "I was nervous about just making the tournament. But the Big Ten is looking good. I don't mind going to Florida. It's better than the West Coast. We'll take a couple of days off to recharge and just go down there and play hard for three days like we usually do."
Tuesday, May 26, 2009 2:55 AM
By Mark Znidar
The Columbus Dispatch
While his players celebrated making the NCAA Tournament yesterday in the players lounge in Bill Davis Stadium, Ohio State coach Bob Todd was off by himself doing a slow burn.
Todd, who was a member of the tournament selection committee for seven years, thought the Buckeyes deserved to be a No. 1 or No. 2 seed and to play host to a regional tournament.
Instead, Ohio State (40-17) was seeded third and will play second-seeded Georgia (37-22) in a first-round game at noon Friday in Dick Howser Stadium in Tallahassee, Fla. Host and top-seeded Florida State (42-16) will play Marist (31-26) at 4 p.m. in the other game.
The Buckeyes have a 7-7 record against teams that are in the NCAA Tournament, including victories over the University of Miami, Xavier, George Mason, Army and Minnesota.
"It's a little bit of a slap at the Big Ten when your regular season champion gets a third seed," Todd said. "We had a good RPI -- 32. For a team that plays well all year like we did, we should have received strong consideration to get a No. 1 or a No. 2 seed."
Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith bid for a regional tournament. No school from the East or Midwest will play host to one.
The Buckeyes are in the NCAA Tournament for the 13th time since 1991. They played host to first-round tournaments and super regional tournaments in 1999 and 2001 and a super regional in 2003.
"There's such an outcry from people to get regional tournaments in the East, North and Midwest, and they turned their back on it," Todd said. "I know we were not the lowest bid, so money was not a factor. Columbus is a convenient place to get in and out of. It's a logical place to hold a regional. We got great marks for hosting in the past."
The selection committee picked three teams from the Big Ten. Regular-season runner-up Minnesota is second-seeded in the Baton Rouge regional, and conference tournament champion Indiana is seeded fourth at Louisville.
Ohio State players weren't disappointed about having to travel more than 830 miles to play or about which teams they will play.
"You eventually have to play the best, so that doesn't make any difference to us," pitcher Alex Wimmers said. "You just go down there and do what you have to do."
Third baseman Justin Miller said the Buckeyes received another opportunity to show their worth.
"I feel this whole year we couldn't get any love from anybody," he said. "I was nervous about just making the tournament. But the Big Ten is looking good. I don't mind going to Florida. It's better than the West Coast. We'll take a couple of days off to recharge and just go down there and play hard for three days like we usually do."
Monday, May 25, 2009
Mike Martin Field at Dick Howser Stadium
Have been tossing the idea of driving all day and night this weekend to Tallahassee. Was learning towards no, I probably should stay home and study with next week being the 10th and final week of the quarter, but after seeing the wikipedia page for the stadium, OMG, as the kids like to say. I have to head down.
Wikipedia page
Here are some photos. Mind-blowing
This is a palace folks not a stadium. See you in Tallahassee
Wikipedia page
Here are some photos. Mind-blowing
This is a palace folks not a stadium. See you in Tallahassee
Ohio State in Tallahassee Regionals
2009 will mark the second time the Buckeyes travel to Dick Howser Stadium in Tallahassee, Fla in pursuit of a NCAA baseball championship. The first trip to Florida'a state capital came 15 years ago in 1994 where the Buckeyes went 1-2 and were eliminated by Jacksonville.
In game 1 of the Atlantic II Regional the Buckeyes faced the Cougars of BYU and won 6-1. The Buckeyes would then fall to Kansas 20-6, and Jacksonville 6-5 to see the 1994 season end.
That season Coach Todd's team went 49-9 the best record in he country and a mark that sets the highest winning percentage in a single season at Ohio State. The Buckeyes won the Big Ten regular season and tournament championships in the process. Ohio State finished the season ranked in 3 poll's top 13. The '94 squad has school records in batting average, .354, home runs, 94, and slugging percentage, .583.
In game 1 of the Atlantic II Regional the Buckeyes faced the Cougars of BYU and won 6-1. The Buckeyes would then fall to Kansas 20-6, and Jacksonville 6-5 to see the 1994 season end.
That season Coach Todd's team went 49-9 the best record in he country and a mark that sets the highest winning percentage in a single season at Ohio State. The Buckeyes won the Big Ten regular season and tournament championships in the process. Ohio State finished the season ranked in 3 poll's top 13. The '94 squad has school records in batting average, .354, home runs, 94, and slugging percentage, .583.
NCAA Baseball Tallahassee Regional Tickets Now On Sale
All-Tournament Books for the 2009 NCAA Baseball Tallahassee Regional ($45 for reserved seats and $30 for general admission seats) are now on sale via the Internet at FSU Athletics. Tickets will also be available by phone at 888-FSU-Nole and at the Seminole Athletics Ticket Office between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday.
Single game tickets for the Friday sessions ONLY will go on sale via the web (seminoles.com) beginning at 6:00 p.m. Thursday. In person and phone sales of single game tickets for Friday’s games will begin at 8:30 a.m. Friday. Single game tickets for games on subsequent days will go on sale on the web immediately following the last game of the previous day and at Dick Howser Stadium two hours prior to the start of the first game.
Prices for single game general admission tickets are $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for youth. If available, reserved seats single game tickets are $10.00.
Single game tickets for the Friday sessions ONLY will go on sale via the web (seminoles.com) beginning at 6:00 p.m. Thursday. In person and phone sales of single game tickets for Friday’s games will begin at 8:30 a.m. Friday. Single game tickets for games on subsequent days will go on sale on the web immediately following the last game of the previous day and at Dick Howser Stadium two hours prior to the start of the first game.
Prices for single game general admission tickets are $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for youth. If available, reserved seats single game tickets are $10.00.
A few Georgia Bulldog links
First the series with the Bulldogs:
Ohio State and UGA have played 13 times in their program's histories, Georgia leads the series 9-4, but only 3 meetings have occurred since 1960, in which Ohio State has won 2 of 3. Though in the last meeting between the two, Ohio State lost a 3-4 game that was played in 2005 at Greenville, NC in early March. Michael Arp is the only Buckeye that would have been on that team, as he was a freshman red-shirting that year. The last Ohio State victory against Georgia was on March 6th in 1999, again at a neutral site as the Bucks won 7-2, in Coral Gables, Florida.
University of Georgia Athletics
Bulldogs Baseball
Georgia's roster
2009 Bulldogs stats
Ohio State and UGA have played 13 times in their program's histories, Georgia leads the series 9-4, but only 3 meetings have occurred since 1960, in which Ohio State has won 2 of 3. Though in the last meeting between the two, Ohio State lost a 3-4 game that was played in 2005 at Greenville, NC in early March. Michael Arp is the only Buckeye that would have been on that team, as he was a freshman red-shirting that year. The last Ohio State victory against Georgia was on March 6th in 1999, again at a neutral site as the Bucks won 7-2, in Coral Gables, Florida.
University of Georgia Athletics
Bulldogs Baseball
Georgia's roster
2009 Bulldogs stats
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