Meet Freshman Infielder Jacob Hayes

Over the summer there was quite a bit over buzz about the incoming freshman class for the Ohio State baseball program. With Josh Dezse and Greg Greve both being drafted, with both electing to head to Columbus over respective Yankees and Giants farm systems, long has a class been as anticipated as this one.

Outside of Ohio, in neighboring Indiana, classmate Jacob Hayes was tearing the cover off of the ball on the summer Legion circuit, picking up where he left off after a fabulous career in Terre Haute.

Following his summer exploits and keeping tabs on the latest, the Buckeye Nine was very impressed with the abilities of Hayes and was able to catch up with him as his summer season was coming to an end. As we start to introduce you to the new faces of Buckeye Baseball, we start with a profile of Hayes.

With a few stories from various Indiana newspapers, summer and senior season statistics, as well as a Q&A, here is your chance to meet Buckeye freshman Jacob Hayes.

Indiana Preview & Special Interview

With Indiana comes the first Big Ten home opponent for the Buckeyes. The weekend presents you, the Buckeye faithful, with three opportunities to support the men of Scarlet & Gray. Fresh off of a 12-7 midweek victory over Xavier, the weekend provides the student-athlete Buckeyes with a statement to make to the rest of the Big Ten as they defend their conference championship taking on the tournament champ of a year ago.

In our preview we'll have a side-by-side comparison of the two teams, projected rotations, a brief intro of Indiana, a key match-up, available media outlets, and other goodies and nuggets for your reading pleasure that includes a special feature you surely want to read that you can only get here.

Alumni Update: 9-Innings with Jacob Howell

Howell, joined by captains Angle, DeLucia, and Fryer, holds the 2007 Big Ten Tournament trophy


A .500 record Big Ten record, 6th place conference finish, ace goes down with Tommy John, a team with 7 future MLB draft picks, including the Big Ten Pitcher of the Year. The 2007 regular season by all means was one of disappointment, underachievement, and perhaps the most roller-coaster up and down season in recent Buckeye history.

The Buckeyes secured the 6th and final Big Ten tournament berth on the last game of the year, winning at Penn State 3-2. No other team prior had won the tournament as a 6th seed, with Michigan and Minnesota rolling into the postseason with a full head of steam, it appeared 2007 would be a Buckeye season full of potential untapped, one that fans, players, parents, and coaches would surely shake their head at.

Two and a half years later, we are still shaking our heads.

The run the Buckeyes went on to capture the 2007 Big Ten Tournament Championship will be a story that forever will live in the memories and hearts of those within, following, and admiring from afar the Ohio State baseball program. Clutch hitting, gritty pitching performances, and having the hearts of champions propelled the Buckeyes to knock off each and every comer on their way to the NCAA automatic bid.

Every game brought something new. Be it the slugfest the Buckeyes opened with against Penn State, knocking off the heated rival Wolverines on their own field, an extra inning dramatic come from behind victory against Minnesota late into the Friday evening, capped off with the heroics of the championship game versus the Gophers. The heights and efforts we saw on those four days in May will are and will be unrivaled.

A key cog in the Buckeye machine, providing to be an inspiration, showing dedication, and giving every ounce of effort was captain Jacob Howell. Howell throughout his career battled injuries, but continued to rise to the occasion and do all that he could while wearing the Scarlet and Gray. Howell ended his career ninth all-time with 693 at-bats, 11th in hits with 293, and first in triples with 13.

In catching up with former Buckeyes, who without them being a Buckeye would not nearly mean as much as it does for the present day Buckeye nine, I was able to catch up with Jacob Howell as he lets us know what he has been up to since leaving Ohio State after that 2007 season, what it meant for him to call Bill Davis home, and just what occurred and went into his inspirational run during the 2007 Big Ten Tournament.

B9:First in the two years since OSU, what all has been going on? Marriage, careers, etc.

JH: A ton of exciting things have happened in the past two years. Right after Pami and I graduated in 2007 from OSU, we got married and moved to New York City for my Teach For America training. I taught 6th grade summer school in the Bronx. In September I started teaching 5th grade in Brooklyn. We were there until this past June, when my two-year commitment ended, and headed upstate to the Adirondacks, where I was the Director of Baseball at Raquette Lake Boys Camp. We moved back to Columbus a week and a half ago, and are tremendously excited to be back to Buckeye Country.

B9: And what are you up to now being back in Columbus

JH: I’ve been catching up on lost time with friends and family, and have been actively searching for a position in public relations, marketing or education.

B9: As you're moving back, after the Teach for America commitment, are you currently about where you would have liked to be?

JH: Teach For America was an absolutely amazing experience, especially right after getting married. I loved my time with my students, and really miss them. In our down time Pami and I were able to take in all NYC has to offer, and lived the city life for a bit, but it’s so great to be back to Columbus. We were definitely ready.

B9: You litter the Ohio State record books having put together one of the finest careers as a Buckeye, did you feel or anticipate you might get a shot at pro ball after the 2007 season?

JH: I think more than anything, any individual success I encountered was a testament to the astounding talent that surrounded me every time I stepped on the field. I roamed the outfield with guys like Angle, Hurley, Dew, Rabin, and Caravati, all of whom were (and are) amazing athletes. We were a brotherhood that had each other’s back no matter what, and we thrived off of competing with each other daily. My memories with them are something I’ll have forever. Professionally, I think I might have had a shot with one of the teams, but my body was kind of falling apart. Between stress fractures in my shins, a pulled hamstring and a bum shoulder, it was time to hang it up. Timing-wise, it worked out perfectly with Teach For America, so I had to take advantage of the opportunity.

B9: As you mention some of your former teammates, it feels just like yesterday where you leading off the Bucks lineup keying an unbelievable 2007 Big Ten Tourney run, now that you're two years removed do you have any different feelings or emotions about your time as a Buckeye that didn't sink in right away?

JH: When you’re in the midst of competition and the incessant work it takes to perform at a high level, it’s easy to forget how fast time flies and how quickly your time as a Buckeye passes. I made a point to take time on a regular basis to pause and reflect on the events taking place, so I was able to appreciate how blessed I was to don the Scarlet and Gray each day, but it doesn’t hit you until after you’re gone how incredibly fast it all goes by. Enjoy every single minute.

B9: Do any moments stick out more than others that you had in a Scarlet & Gray uniform?

JH: My first at bat as a Buckeye is one of my most memorable plate appearances. We were playing at Minute Made Park (home of the Houston Astros) vs. Kansas State; I pinch-hit in the sixth inning, and hit a triple down the left field line. I’ll never forget how hard my heart was pumping. Another big memory is beating Michigan the final time we saw them my senior year in the Big Ten Tournament, and then of course beating Minnesota in 2007 to take the Big Ten Tournament title as the last seed, moving onto the regional in College Station.

B9: Are you able to keep up with the program as well as some of your former teammates?

JH: In Brooklyn, I kept tabs on the boys and watched their progress throughout the seasons. When Dan DeLucia, Jed Stephen and Matt Angle played the Brooklyn Cyclones at Coney Island, Pami and I got to see them. In terms of keeping contact, I tried to call guys as much as possible and stay in touch, but it was difficult being so far away. Now that we’re back in town, I’m excited to get back in touch with my buddies and spend more time with them, especially my former roommates like Jedidiah and Kris Moorman.

B9: For the newer fans of the program, as well as those of quite some time, you went through one of the most inspirational times, briefly discuss the last month for you in May 2007, not only with you carrying the Bucks to a championship, but how the off the field ongoings impacted that?

JH: That was a special time, one with a myriad of emotions that I’ll never forget. We call it the story of 11 (my number as a Buckeye). My sister nearly died May 11, when she collapsed from a brain aneurysm. To make a long story short, she survived and made a miraculous recovery on the 11th floor of OSU’s medical center and was released 11 days later. She was able to come watch us in the Big Ten Tournament where she got a standing ovation from the crowd when she arrived. On Friday night, we were playing the Gophers and were tied going into extra innings. In the 11th inning, I came up with a runner on third, and at 11:11 pm, I (#11) drove in the winning run to go to the championship game, which we won the next day with Hannah in the stands.



B9: What message would you pass along to current and future Ohio State baseball players?

JH: You have an opportunity that millions of little kids dream of, so enjoy every single practice and game, because it doesn’t last forever. Use the platform you have as a student-athlete at The Ohio State University for good, represent the university in a manner that you’ll be proud of forever. No matter how many games you win or lose, it’s the way you conduct yourself that people will remember most.


The Buckeye Nine greatly thanks and appreciates Jacob for taking the time to fill us in with his post-OSU experiences, as well as reliving some memorable moments from yesteryear.

Buckeye 9 Interview with OF Zach Hurley

Photo courtesy Jim Davidson the-ozone.net

Imagine waking up one day and realizing you have the ability to play baseball for a living and have been offered thousands of dollars to do so. Pretty sweet dream huh?

The dream became a reality for Zach Hurley this past June as the Florida Marlins selected the Springboro, Ohio native in the 45th round of the 2009 MLB Amateur Draft.

After a 2008 summer which saw the five-tool athlete be selected as the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League's top prospect, as well as compiling a summer that saw him land PGCrosschecker's top 20 performances of the summer, Hurley had a tidal wave of momentum going into the fall.

Unfortunately an injury to his throwing shoulder limited Hurley's ability to fine tune his game in the Autumn, and kept him from being 100% this past spring further rockerting up draft boards.

You probably had a hard time telling Hurley was 100%. In 60 games, only taking a day off once, Hurley hit .346 his 89 hits lead the team as did his six triples. The 12 doubles and six home runs powered Hurley to 53 RBI and a .510 slugging percentage. The .421 on-base percentage Hurley posted worked quite well for the leadoff hitter, allowing him to steal 14 bases being an all around force for Bob Todd and the Buckeyes. Oh and he only committed one error in the field.

After doing his part to lead Ohio State to their first Big Ten Championship since 2001, Hurley woke up on June 12th the day after the Marlins obtained his rights with a decision to make.

Return to school or go pro? As the deadline approaches unsigned draft selections have until Monday the 17th at 11:59 PM to sign their professional contract. The Buckeye Nine catches up with Hurley to get his decision.

B9: First off initial thoughts on being drafted?

ZH: Highest honor you could get as a baseball player...I've been asked this question quite a few times this summer and my response is always the same.

Having an organization pick you as one of their draft picks out of the thousands of college baseball players across the country is just a true honor. It is a goal every college baseball player has including myself and to think that a team considers you good enough to play professionally is awesome. I don't think there is a better compliment a player could receive.

B9: What has went into your decision of whether to leave or return? Is it an individual decision or did you look to your family for advice? What impact did discussing all options with the Marlins and OSU coaches have? And ultimately what is your decision?

ZH: Well first of all my family is always and will always take priority in my life. They were a huge impact on my decision and there were many long talks over the course of the couple weeks that went into the decision following the draft.

We listed out all the positives and negatives to leaving or staying and at the end of the day I had to put a dollar figure on what I felt my remaining time at OSU was worth. What I was willing to leave for and what the Marlins were willing to offer just didn't match up, which at the end of the day doesn't disappoint me at all.

I'm a true believer in everything happens for a reason and that God has a plan for me. I've always wanted to play professionally and I still do however there's not a doubt in my mind that coming back to OSU was the right decision for me to make and I couldn't be happier.

I've talked to a lot of people including the coaches and we all agreed that coming back for my senior year was the right thing to do. The thought of being able to play for The Ohio State University for my senior year and all the memories and good times I'm going to share and have with the guys on the team is absolutely priceless to me.

I can't wait to join up with my teammates here soon for fall ball and set out on an unbelievable 2010 season.

B9: Quite a few publications thought very highly of you and your abilities going into 2009 coming off of a summer that saw you selected as the top prospect in the GLSCL in 2008. Though you were drafted and you've said it is an honor to be selected, were you surprised at all you did not get selected until the 45th round? Did you hear any reasons on why it ended the way it did?

ZH: You know to be honest I was a little surprised. I've put in tons of hard work into my career and I felt that I had the ability to play with the best. That's just the way I've always been.

I'm never going to be the fastest guy or throw the hardest or hit the furthest homeruns but that is ok with me. I feel like I have the ability to play with the best and that is the way my mindset has always been.

With that in mind, obviously I was hoping to be taken a lot earlier than the 45th round. I was hoping to get an opportunity a lot earlier than that. I'm not sure why I didn't get drafted before the 45th round and to be honest I'm not sure I'll ever know why but I didn't ponder on those thoughts for too long. I just put all that in the back of my mind and have just used it and will continue to use it as motivation.

B9: In using that as motivation in going forward, what have you been doing this summer? Any baseball related activities?

ZH: This summer I've taken a step away from the playing field by deciding to not partake in summer ball. I've been able to work and pour all of my focus into my body and driving it into the ground daily.

I've been able to hit the weights hard along with doing yoga and lots of conditioning... things I haven't been able to focus on since my time last year was spent rehabbing my shoulder for the start of the season. I've also been able to break down my game and focus on some key elements were I need improvement.

B9: Where are the areas and elements of your game you were not pleased with and have worked at and focused on this summer?

ZH: I definitely needed to get my arm back. I was 100% during the season health wise as far as my shoulder was concerned but as far as arm strength from the outfield it wasn't up to my standards that was a biggie for me this summer.

The other was more power at the plate. I'm a pretty big kid and really used the summer to break down parts of my swing so I can get the full benefit of my size and strength to drive the ball further. Arm strength and power were definitely the two big areas of focus for me this summer.

B9: There isn’t a lot to nitpick with your abilities to find flaws, especially coming off of a 2009 season that was a career year for you, anchoring the Bucks lineup as the leadoff hitter. Did you have the season you felt you were capable of?

ZH: At the end of the day I was happy with the season that I had in 2009 .Sure there were definitely some goals of mine I didn't reach, I would of liked to have hit for a better average but there were also things I did well so I was pleased with how the year went.

You know, I always think there is room for improvement and I always set the bar extremely high, I'm always going to think I'm capable of more so with that said I am happy with the 2009 season that I had but I'm going to be looking for bigger and better things in 2010 especially since it is my last year at OSU.

B9: Gearing towards 2010 you as stated took a step away from baseball this summer. After turning down the professional contract and rumored to be in the Cape this summer, what went into the decision to stay away from playing summer ball focusing on working out was it the arm?

ZH: Well I definitely wanted to play professionally and if it didn't work out I wanted to play in the Cape, that's where the best in the country played so I wanted an opportunity to go up against the best.

However, none of those situations worked themselves out so I elected to drop baseball for the summer and solely focus like I said before on my strength, flexibility, and conditioning as well as work on all the things in my game that need improvement. That way it would give me the best shot at being the most complete baseball player I can possibly be with no flaws.

I felt like improving on these areas as well as my body would benefit me much more than continuing play for another couple months. Also, since my shoulder surgery last September I never really had the time to get myself where I like to be physically and mentally before the start of the season. It was rehab every single day, I missed out on a lot of things especially fall ball and working out with the guys. My last day of rehab was the day before the first game of the year down in Florida against Notre Dame.

B9: As you mention you missed fall ball last year, as fall ball is now is about a month away. Did it set you back any not being able to participate in last Autumn's practices?

ZH: You know I don't think it set me back on a playing level as much as it did a personal level.

What I mean by that is considering my age and the amount of time and AB's that I've had, missing fall ball wasn't going to affect me as much as it would of I was only a freshman or sophomore because I have seen the college pitching and I've been in those clutch situations you encounter and experience during the fall.

The set back in my opinion that I faced was with the guys especially the new guys. I didn't get the opportunity to step up and establish myself with them as far as a leadership role and as a guy they could rely on to get the job done.

B9: After a healthy fall is under your belt, do you have any personal goals for 2010?

ZH: From a personal standpoint my main goal for the 2010 season is to have fun. I'm not going to try and hit .400, blast 20 home runs, etc. I'm just going to have fun. This is my senior year, the last time I will be around all the guys on the team so I'm going to enjoy it and have fun with it... Everything else will take care of itself.

B9: What do you expect the teams attitude and focus to be on in 2010 coming off of a Big Ten Championship and NCAA Regional?

ZH: I think the confidence among the team will definitely be there. We are the champs of the Big Ten, regional contenders, however that was the past and this is the now.

What happened last year was great but it wasn't good enough. With the talent this team has coming back and coming in our eyes need to be set further than winning a Big Ten Championship. We worked harder than ever last year and where did that get us? A thirty-plus deficit to a Florida State team and an embarrassing chunk of time on SportsCenter.

On the other hand that was a great season when you look back at it. The champs of our conference, a 40+ win season. But to make up for the way it ended we are going to need to work 3x harder as a team than we did last year. And we will.

B9: 2010 will be a success in your eyes if...

ZH: 2010 will be a success...If as a team we put in the total dedication from top to bottom...every guy on our roster needs to put every ounce of what they have to the limit every single day, day in and day out, no exceptions. We are only as good as our weakest link and if we work harder than ever at this time next year we will have no regrets.


The Buckeye 9 thanks Hurley for taking the time to sit down and fill us in on his decision as we look forward to seeing Zach back in the Scarlet & Gray.

Interview with pitcher Ross Oltorik

Photo Courtesy Jim Davidson and Dan Harker of the O-Zone.net

Deion Sanders, Michael Jordan, Ross Oltorik? The Buckeye Nine catches up ex-Moeller Crusader and two-sport star Ross Oltorik.


Throughout Ohio kids in every town, city, suburb, and countryside dream of one day playing football inside the Horseshoe, running out of the tunnel in Ohio Stadium, and owning a pair of Gold Pants for beating Michigan. Doing their best Joey Galloway, Eddie George, or Troy Smith impersonation, having the goal of being the second Mr. two-time, and having memories of colored in Scarlet & Gray, to become an Ohio State football is certainly the childhood dream of many.

In other neighborhoods, alleys, barns, and communities, the pastime of America lives on. Kids gathering in a sandlot doing their best Ken Griffey Jr. stance, high schoolers leading off first base with the quiet confidence of Kenny Lofton looking to steal second, and youth being served as kids who couldn't tell the difference of a 4-6-3 and 6-4-3 playing tee-ball with a joy and smile as big as Nick Swisher's custom grin. Hey kids dream of playing baseball too, and the potential chance of dawning the Scarlet & Gray in Bill Davis Stadium is just as big as the like in Ohio Stadium.

Unfortunately in life these dreams are nothing more than dreams. Maybe one kid from a town every three or five years and live the dream of playing a sport for Ohio State. To play both? Unheard of. Sophomore to be Ross Oltorik defines the odds. As a student-athlete at Ohio State, Oltorik can proudly show off the jewlery that comes with being a Big Ten Champion football player and Big Ten Champion baseball player. Now Jordan, and Sanders are world-class athletes in truly a class of their own. But Olrotik as Sanders did can say he played two sports at one of the nations premiere universities and athletic programs.

The Buckeye Nine was able to catch up with Oltorik, he was gracious enough to lend the B9 some time, hopefully providing an insight on being a two-sport athlete, but sense this is a baseball blog, also touching up on the 2009 season of the Buckeyes and what to expect in 2010.

B9: Just briefly the summer so far, how’s it going? Any baseball activity for you?



RO: The summer in terms of baseball activity for me has gone a bit on the slower side. And that is what I wanted. I got hurt towards the end of the year and I do not want to rush anything to set me back even further.

In the past week though I have thrown and I am working with my pitching coach from back home in Cincinnati. I may pitch for the Cincinnati Steam in the Great Lakes League towards the end of July.

Working out on the other hand has gone great. It is really nice to be home and relax. It had been a long year. I am eager to get back on the mound and feel like this coming year should be a great year for Ohio State.


B9: Obviously your summer baseball schedule has to work around or with your summer football schedule, as a two-sport athlete here at OSU, how are you able to handle both sports?


RO: The coaches were great last year with me playing two sports. I thought it may get a little rough with one coach trying to pull you away from the other, but all in all last year I have no complaints with that.

The football team was great with me pursuing what I needed in baseball and the baseball team was great with allowing me to miss the fall. I could not complain with the baseball team’s effort in allowing me to miss the fall other than me coming over a couple times a week to throw. The team when I came to baseball workouts after football was finished was very supportive and held no grudges on me for missing.

B9: Was being able to play both sports a decision that went into your recruitment and choice for school?


RO: Playing two sports here at OSU was huge in my decision to come here. During the recruiting process I was torn whether I should play football at the next level or baseball. I knew that I had to stick with baseball, but also I wanted to play football at the next level if that opportunity arose.

Some other schools were allowing me to play both, but the baseball team here was generous enough to give me what I needed financially as well as give me the opportunity to play football as well. I could not be thankful enough for what Ohio State has done for me thus far.

B9: Coach Tressel is synonymous with Ohio State football, as well as the school. Being able to play under him what is he like that most do not get to see?


RO: Coach Tressel is a class act. If I wanted to I could be here all day discussing how great of not only a coach but how great he is as a person.

Through this process of me maybe one day having to choose one sport he has been completely honest with me and has looked me in the eye and told me what he believes is the correct choice for me. He is a man of his word and that is why I feel he is where he is today.

So far I know if I need to talk to anyone about anything, I know I can always go to him. I know that Ohio State football is where it is today because of him. He is not only a person you can model your program around but you can model your whole university around him.

B9: Moeller has established a nice pipeline with Ohio State; you're a part of a team with 4 ex-Moeller athletes, what does that say about the program and level of baseball in Cincinnati?



RO: I feel that the level of baseball in Cincinnati has helped me become the player I am today. Having 4 kids from the same high school all within a year of each other says a lot. But at the same time I know that for each one of us, just being here at the college level is not enough we want to now make a name for ourselves as players. I feel that the background we have can aid us in doing that, but at the same time it will not just happen we have to put hours and hours in to get what we want.

B9: Does it help when you're on the mound and to already have had years throwing to Burkhart?


RO: Haha Wimmers is going to knock me but I have been throwing to Dan since I was about nine too haha. But the success Alex has had this year was just unbelievable to see and we all have been playing on the same team since we were about 8 or 9.

So, I was not just throwing to Dan in high school. I have been throwing to Dan pretty much my whole baseball career so far. A couple years in there we didn’t play on the same team but I feel like we both know each other pretty well and he makes me feel pretty comfortable out there.

B9: Unfortunately your season came to an end with an injury in early May. Just two weeks prior you had your best outing versus Ball State. Did you start to feel your stuff coming around as the season went on?


RO: Well, yes unfortunately I did end up with some bursitis actually in my shoulder in early May. As any one would be I was pretty devastated about that. I finally felt that I had got my mind right and ready to help the team out as much as I could. But, the injury did not allow that.

B9: Without having the luxury of participating in fall ball, did it take a few appearances for the best to come out?


RO: I felt that missing fall ball may have affected me a bit, but honestly I feel that my first couple outings I just did not have my mind right. I was trying to prove something to the guys and I was not being myself. I finally started settling in. My mechanics were not correct either, making my off-speed pitches not what they should have been. I figured that out against Ball State and started to be myself. As the season went on I felt that I was settling in and started to find my off-speed.

B9: Obviously any and every athlete hates injuries and want to perform at every possibility, though you weren't able to compete, how does the experience of being a part of a Regional and the time spent in Tallahassee play a role in both your personal and the teams progression?


RO: I am going to be honest with you here, not being able to play and compete the last month of the season completely sucked. But I can learn from what it’s like not getting the chance to play and know what it feels like.

Also, I was pretty disappointed but I did not attend Tallahassee. I feel like the coaching staff did not believe I was injured. I don’t know the reasoning on that but it was a choice they made and both parties need to go from here. I just started throwing the baseball off flat ground this past week and if I was not hurt I would have been playing for my summer team already this summer.

B9: Coming off of a Big Ten championship, Ohio State is only losing 3 seniors to graduation, and returning starters in nearly every position, I'm sure the goal is there to repeat, but are you and your teammates expecting a repeat? Is it a "hey the championship comes through Columbus" mindset?


RO: I feel that our team’s expectations are not only a repeat but we expect to get out of the Regionals this year. We know we can do it; it’s just if we are going to stay focused. As a pitcher I know I need to try not to overuse my arm throughout the season as well as everyone else, so at the end of the season we are at our best. We have a humble team but I know in the back of their minds they are thinking the championship comes through Columbus.

B9: Without giving too much away, what are the keys to your success as a pitcher? What types of pitches do you throw and as a result what tells you when you're on your A game?


RO: For me when I am on my game I feel that it’s when I am able to establish my off speed. I throw a 2 and 4 seem fastball, a curveball, and a circle-change. I have been working on slider. But I feel that if I can establish my off speed and make every pitch look the same then I know for me that I am feeling my best on the mound. That goes for any pitcher, but if I can do that every time out no matter the result of what the hitter does I will be happy.

B9: Any personal goals you have for 2010 and thoughts on what the Buckeye faithful should see from Ross Oltorik?



RO: I have some personal goals that I tend to keep in my heart. But I know if I continue over the summer getting better and just being myself then I will help this team out tremendously.

I hope to put my team in position to win each and every time I go out there. And I will do whatever it takes to help the Buckeyes win a 2010 Big Ten championship.

The Buckeye Nine wants to thank Oltorik for taking the time to be able to answer the questions and provide some insight into not only being a two-sport athlete, but being a Buckeye pitcher as the Bucks in 2010 are on the title defense. Oltorik was a highly sought after recruit coming out of Moeller in 2008. The Buckeye Scout had Oltorik the 3rd best player in the state and the top right-handed pitcher in the 2008 class. With a healthy Oltorik the Buckeyes present a danger to many teams across America as they look to build upon their Regional berth, and pitching will be the key to a successful season. Good luck to Oltorik on the gridiron.

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.

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

9 Innings with Baseball America's Aaron Fitt

In the pursuit of giving you the best Buckeye baseball coverage as well as supplementing any Big Ten coverage, The Buckeye Nine does what it can to provide you with exclusive content.

With the success of the last 9-Innings with College Baseball Today's Eric Sorenson, The Buckeye Nine sought after another prominant figure in the college baseball commnity in Baseball America's Aaron Fitt.

Aaron Fitt is the lead college writer for Baseball America. If you have questions or comments about college baseball you can e-mail him at collegeblog@baseballamerica.com.

Fitt's blog and weekly columns can be found here, and with the coverage I provide and link from Fitt you know he is one of the best in the business. Understandly Fitt is hard press for time right now, the questions aren't as in-depth or deep as what normally would be covered and focus more on the Big Ten than Ohio State. However, in the end Fitt does a great job of answering the questions and providing us with insight. The Buckeye Nine thanks Fitt and appreciates his time and efforts in covering college baseball.

First Inning

B9: Who are the top Big Ten prospects?

AF: Arnett is actually the best prospect in the league: he is a likely late-first-round pick, whereas Phegley looks like a second-round type because of questions about his defense. Wimmers looks like a top-three type for next year, and McCallum could go in the top six or so this year. The guy to get really excited about for next year is Michigan's Ryan LaMarre, who I think has a chance to go in the first round. Great all-around tool package.

Second Inning

B9: Do you still believe Indiana is capable of making a run and winning the conferences auto-bid?

AF: Absolutely. Gun to my head, I'm taking the Hoosiers to win the conference tournament. Too much talent, and they've played well down the stretch.

9 up, 9 down

B9: Is Illinois in a position where they must win the BTT to reach a Regional or are they an at-large team?

AF: A week ago, I thought the Illini were in pretty good shape for an at-large bid, but dropping that series to Purdue was a killer. I think they've still got a shot at an at-large if they can at least reach the championship game of the Big Ten tourney, unless Indiana wins the tournament. If the Hoosiers win the tournament, Minnesota and Ohio State will get the two at-large bids, and Illinois will be squeezed out.

Perfect through 3

B9: Who has a better chance and reason to host a regional OSU or Minnesota?

AF: Minnesota is more deserving because of a stronger nonconference schedule (and a solid performance against that schedule), but Ohio State has a much better chance to host because of superior facilities.

Half way home

B9: Are you surprised Michigan struggled to a 7th place finish?

AF: Very surprised. There's a lot of young talent on that team, and a few quality veterans. They were extremely excited about their team early on, and I thought they were the team to beat in the Big Ten heading into March. But I was wrong. Hugely disappointing season.

Call to the bullpen

B9: Lesser known Big Ten players who will be drafted and surprise people?

AF: Here's a sleeper: Scott Kelley from Penn State, a smaller guy with plenty of athleticism and arm strength. Has been up to 94 this year, though works more in the 90-91 range. Not a top-10-rounds guy, but probably a top 15 guy.

7th inning stretch

B9: Is there a Big Ten team or teams with Omaha potential?

AF: I don't see it, though I'd give Minnesota an outside chance.


Last at-bat for the home team

B9: Big Ten Pitcher of the year Arnett or Wimmers?

AF: Really, really tough choice this year... I go back and forth, but I'll go with Wimmers. That no-hitter gives him a signature moment that will be the tie-breaker.

Closing it out

B9: Big Ten Player of the year Phegley or McCallum

AF: McCallum, again not by much. But he's the best player on what I believe is the best team in the league, and he's a better defender (though at a position that is not as demanding). Just a better all-around season.

9 Innings with College Baseball Today's Eric Sorenson

After the Stephens feature I thought "9 Innings" would be a better name than "In the 9 Hole". Unless your Matt Streng who is making a killing out of the 9 Hole. So now that its "9 Innings" lets get to it.

The Buckeye Nine was able to catch up with one of the more well known names in the college baseball world in Eric Sorenson. For those unfamiliar Sorenson was a CSTV.com's National Baseball Columnist, and also appeared on CSTV as a baseball analysis. CSTV's coverage of the sport nearly evaporated when CBS purchased the company which now goes under the name CBS College Sports.

Though no longer affiliated with the television network, Soreson did not let that deter his dedication and coverage of the sport. This season College Baseball Today was created by Eric and is one of the best sites in covering college baseball coast to coast.

Though the week is off to a rough start, the weekend series with the Illini is as big of a series in recent Buckeye baseball past. The guys on the diamond are potentially on the verge of capping a special season, and to supplement anything I can cover, Sorenson answered a few questions to give a national take on the Bucks and touch on a few topics. Thanks to Eric for taking the time to answer the questions as well as doing a great job covering the sport. Enjoy.


First Inning...

B9: First place in the Big Ten is on the line this weekend as the Illini host Ohio State. What are your thoughts on the series? Is it a must win for either team or are both sitting comfortably as at-large teams if the auto-bid eludes them? Is it a chance for the Big Ten to say, "hey we can play quality baseball here as well"?


ES: Well, unfortunately, both aren't "sitting comfortably" with Illinois at No. 49 and OSU at No. 31 in the latest RPI - although those two ugly losses at Louisville didn't help, but we are talking mid-week games here. And I say unfortunately because both have proven to me they should be in the NCAAs. I think winning a weekend series - let me say that again - a weekend series at LSU should be indication that you are one of the best teams in the country. And OSU has won at Miami and has some wicked pitchers. I wish they would've scheduled better, but who else in the country can say they have won 25 games away from home? Go ahead, name me a team...


See?

Second Inning...

B9: Senior closer Jake Hale, pound for pound is putting together a season as dominant any closer in the nation. Hale drafted out of high school, and two years ago as a draft eligible Sophomore currently has 11 saves, a ridiculous .95 ERA allowing just 4 runs in 38 innings, has 49 strikeouts, and just 4 XBH's all doubles. Can you evaluate Hale's season? How special is it to have someone that dominant who can mix up 5 pitches be able to close out games?


ES:I'm not too shocked about Hale. I actually saw him pitch in a series at Minnesota that I went to in 2007. Despite being a closer, Hale started one of the Saturday double-header games, throwing a complete-game six hitter. He was hitting 94mph in the late innings too. I just remember him having a great mentality about him.


And by the way, Hale is one of those guys all college baseball fans should love, he's been drafted by the bigs twice but has stuck around and is now a 4-year senior and tearing it up now. He will be a huge key for the Bucks post-season hopes.

Third inning...

B9:Though the games do, quality Buckeye arms don't end with Hale. You've been pretty high and giving Alex Wimmers his deserves credit and props throughout the season, obviously highlighted by his no-no this past Saturday against Michigan. What kind of buzz is the sophomore generating nationally, Potential All-American? What has impressed you?


ES: The "buzz" nationally has been pretty good from what I've seen. I mean, when you get myself, Aaron Fitt and Kendall Rogers all being able to comment on the guy in the same weekend, it's pretty good news for the OSU program. But I jumped on the Wimmers-train early on when he helped put the clamps on a good-hitting Miami team in Coral Gables. That's saying something. He should be a huge drawing card for the Bucks next year as a junior... not that OSU doesn't get healthy crowds to their games already.

Fourth Inning...

B9: Speaking of the Wimmers no-no, you and others around the country were able to watch his performance via the Big Ten Network that would not have just a few seasons back. How do you feel about the current exposure college baseball is receiving? For those who are unaware you spent time at CSTV heading their college baseball coverage and have a closer pulse to what is going on. Is the exposure moving in the right direction, do you wish any changes would come about?

ES: It's not good right now. Really. It blows, web-wise. I mean, compared to last year there are so many outlets that have cut back on their college baseball coverage, it's stunning. And those that haven't, probably will be cutting back soon. CSTV was doing some of the most unique, out-of-the-box thinking in their college baseball coverage, then CBS bought out the network... and well, you see what happened there.


TV-wise, I love the Big 10 Network and The Mtn., mainly because it gives two mid-major conferences in baseball a lot of exposure. ESPN has done a pretty good job of giving some other lower-profile teams some prime time too, like Coastal Carolina vs. Liberty and Bethune-Cookman vs. Delaware State this weekend. But I'd still like to see more Friday night games on the tube. God help us if they show more Sunday games. Not good for the sport.


Shockingly, it’s still incredible that there is no SEC TV Network or Big 12 TV Network... yet.

12 up 12 down so far...

B9:You do a phenomenal job with your site, collegebaseballtoday.com. Is it pretty rough keeping up and keeping up thoroughly with what’s happening across the country? Is it a full time job? Do you make it a point to give conferences like the Big Ten, the MAC, and the Ohio Valley more attention than they normally received or simply give credit where credit is due?

ES: Thanks for the kind words. Really. That's mighty boss of ya'. But the only thing I can really say about all that is... well, my psychologist just told me to admit to family and loved ones that I've got an addiction problem. My addiction is college baseball.


No really, I keep up with as much as possible, not just the big money Top 25. I'm a fan of every portion of the country. I think that comes from growing up in Omaha and going to CWS games as a kid, where there were teams from California to Maine, literally. I mean, back then, seeing Minnesota, or Washington State, or Hawaii, or Michigan in the field of eight wasn't out of the usual. Hell Eastern Michigan made the title game one year.

Solid Through 5...

B9: For those unfamiliar with seedings, how a university or college is a host, or where they are sent during Regionals, can you give a brief rundown of what the selection committee might look at when evaluating a team first as a potential team in the field of 64, then what determines a host school, RPI, facilities, the magical 40 wins, etc?

ES: Well, this'll probably be my longest answer of the nine here.


Mainly because it's really warped, to be honest. I'd like your readers to know that the selection committee uses this formula that was developed for basketball called the RPI. It doesn't translate well to baseball. In fact, it's a steaming pile of dung formula that allows teams to load up on home games against tomato can teams in out of conference play and still get rewarded with a high RPI.


So if your RPI is high, like in the top 16 teams or so, there's a good chance you will play at home in the Regionals. The top eight national seeds get to play at home in both the Regionals round and the Super Regionals round. So, like last year, a team like Florida State - who didn't play anyone worth a damn in non-conference, did well in the ACC and then got to play at home until Omaha - went out in two quick games once they got to the CWS. Do the math.


So according to the NCAA selection committee, a high RPI is vital. A high-dollar bid to host is important. And a good stadium to play in helps, though it's not the most important thing. 40+ wins doesn't really mean much, to be honest. Oh, but being in the human polls, though it's claimed not to be important by the selection committee, I think it really does have a subconscious influence.

Time to Stretch...
B9: Getting back to Ohio State for a bit, if the Buckeyes are fortunate enough to make the NCAA Tournament, is the team capable of a special run? A lot of attention nationally has been given to in-state school Kent State as a potential sleeper and a northern school that can make a run. What do the Bucks do well that they could and what do they need to do better that could keep them back?

ES: Oh that's easy. The answer is yes, they could make a run. Why do I think? They've got three or four stud pitchers and that, along with solid defense, is really all you need. No b.s. Remember that Fullerton team in 2004? They had Jason Windsor, Ricky Romero and a few spot pitchers that pitched well when they had to. And yet, they won it all. I think they hit like .240 for the week in Omaha, so mass amounts of offense isn't vital.


Keep in mind, EVERYTHING depends on post-season placement and if your team is playing hot or not. For example, if you get bunched with a hot team like Fresno State was last season, that's just the (bad) luck of the draw.

Last at-bat for the home team
B9: Michigan's Rich Maloney has been at the front and the most vocal voice out of the North in terms of the universal start date. The NCAA just passed a regulation allowing the 2010 season to start a week earlier. Maloney feels to give the northern schools a more fair deal; the extended season should have seen a week added to the end not the beginning. Is the NCAA in the right in making this move? Is the landscape tilted to give northern schools an uphill battle?

ES: Quick story here... I remember being at a game at Arizona State last year (the first year of the common start date) in the first week of the season with a handful of other national writers. The p.a. announced the score of the Minnesota-Ole Miss game where the Rebels won something like 20-5. One of the national writers said, "Well, I guess that common start date really helped Minnesota." And they all laughed. But I kept thinking to myself, "Just wait. It will change things."


Lo and behold, a year later and we're seeing Illinois beat LSU, Ohio State beating Miami and Minnesota winning at TCU. To me, the vital thing is a common practice start of February 1st. Even LSU coach Paul Mainieri told me it made no sense for baseball to be the only sport in all of collegiate athletics to NOT have a common practice date. A mid-February start for games isn't all that bad. Yeah, to be honest, I'd like to see the season push back more into summer (as long as the CWS isn't over July 4th), but starting a week earlier isn't going to hurt too bad.

Bringin in the closer...

B9: Last question, for those familiar with your site a more notable feature is your honorary stitch-head. Those unaware of what that entails with have to check your site, if you have to pick an honorary buckeye stitch-head from the great state of Ohio, who would it be? Katie Holmes, Halle Berry, other?


ES: Hmmm. A tough, but fair question.


I'm not a Katie Holmes fan. I mean, with all that freaky Tom Cruise thing she's got goin' on. Halle Berry is good, but not my cup of tea. About 10 years ago I woulda said Kim Deal from The Pixies, but not now.


Tell you what, I'll go with that former Sports Illustrated swimsuiter and striking red head Angie Everhart.

Two words... Yow. Za!


Again the Buckeye Nine would like to thank Eric for his time and responses. Be sure to check out his page College Baseball Today and become part of stitch-head nation.


Also, have an idea for the Buckeye Nine? A player you're interested in hearing from? Subjects to be approached? Ways to better cover the program? I encourage you and please send any thoughts and feedback. Anything I can do to improve the quality of coverage, within reasonable means I do have to juggle 19 credit hours, and a job, I wil do so. The Buckeye Nine can be reached by sending an email to buckeyenine@gmail.com. There is also the Facebook and Twitter pages. Thanks!