The Niagara Power of the New York Collegiate Baseball League has signed brothers Zach and Tyson Leighton for the 2008 season. The Leighton brothers play at Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, Calif.
Zach, the older of the brothers, is a 6-foot-3 junior shortstop. He has been Vanguard's starting shortstop since his freshman season in 2006. Last year, Zach hit .292 with one home run and 19 runs batted in. He added 45 hits, 28 runs scored, 19 stolen bases and a team-high 131 assists. As a freshman, he started 42 games and finished second on the team with 10 stolen bases.
Zach was an all-metro and all-league selection at Oak Ridge High School in El Dorado Hills, Calif. He was a team captain and helped Oak Ridge to several Sierra Valley League championships. Zach also lettered in soccer.
This spring, Zach has played and started 27 games for Vanguard. He is batting .229 with 22 hits and 11 runs batted in. He is tied with his younger brother for second on the team with four stolen bases.
Tyson, the youngest, is a 6-foot-2 sophomore outfielder. As a freshman, he started 41 games and led the team with 51 hits. He batted .329 (third on team) with two home runs, 27 runs batted in and three triples. Prior to Vanguard, Tyson spent one semester at American River Junior College.
The youngest Leighton was an all-league selection at Oak Ridge High School and helped the team to three league championships. He batted .450 during his senior season.
Tyson is currently batting .297 with two home runs and 12 runs batted in. He is second on the Lions in batting average and has tallied 22 hits, 15 runs scored, three doubles, two triples and he is tied for second on the team with four stolen bases.
Friday, March 28, 2008
NYCBL Alumni Spotlight: 2004 Glens Falls Golden Eagles
Welcome back to the New York Collegiate Baseball League Alumni Spotlight. Every other week until the beginning of the 2008 NYCBL season on June 6th, former NYCBL (or NCBL) players or coaches will be featured. Last June, 27 current or former New York Collegiate Baseball League players were selected in the Major League Baseball entry draft. Countless other former players and coaches have gone on to success at the collegiate and professional levels.
Today, the spotlight shines on the 2004 Glens Falls Golden Eagles. The Golden Eagles, in their inaugural season in the New York Collegiate Baseball League, won the Eastern Division regular season title with a record of 31-10 and finished with the league's highest winning percentage (.756). Seven members of the team were named to the NYCBL postseason all-star team and an eighth player, Terry Blunt, was selected as the NYCBL Player of the Year. The Golden Eagles all-stars were Chris Carlson, Jeremy Goldschmeding, David Williams, Brett Zamzow, Shawn Ryan, Ryan Basham and Jeremy Hall.
Eight members of the 2004 Golden Eagles are preparing to play professional baseball in 2008. Those eight players are Terry Blunt, Steve Calicutt, Jeremy Hall, Chris Carlson, David Williams, Ryan Hill, Ryan Basham and Shawn Ryan.
Last season, Blunt played for the California League's Bakersfield Blaze. He's the first former Golden Eagles player to reach High-A. Blunt, in his first full season in High-A, batted .159 in 41 games with six runs batted in, 18 runs scored, 21 hits and nine stolen bases. He had his best professional season in 2006 with the Clinton LumberKings of the Midwest League. Blunt played in 115 games and batted .271 with 45 runs batted in. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Texas Rangers after finishing his collegiate career at Kansas State.
Calicutt pitched for the Augusta GreenJackets of the South Atlantic League in 2007. He went 6-5 with a 3.88 earned run average in 33 appearances and 16 starts. Calicutt also converted two saves. He finished the season strong with three victories in his final four appearances, including a three-hitter over six innings to close the season against Kannapolis. Calicutt, out of East Tennessee State, was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 21st round (626 overall) of the 2006 draft.
Hall started the 2007 season with Princeton of the Appalachian League and finished the year with the South Atlantic League's Columbus Catfish. In 12 starts for the Princeton Devil Rays, Hall went 4-1 with a 1.56 earned run average. He struck out 59 batters in 69.1 innings pitched and held opponents to a .242 batting average. After being called up to Columbus, Hall hurled a four-hitter over six innings to lead the Catfish to a victory over Savannah on August 27. He was signed as a free agent by the Devil Rays after his collegiate career at East Tennessee State. For more on Hall, please click here.
Carlson spent last season with the Oneonta Tigers of the New York-Penn League. He was named the team's Player of the Year and was the Most Valuable Player at the NY-Penn League All-Star Game. For the season, Carlson hit .291 with 10 home runs and 51 RBI. He totaled 75 hits, 44 runs, 21 doubles and 29 walks. Carlson was a Topps Short-Season Rookie All-Star in 2006 with the GCL Tigers of the Gulf Coast League. He was chosen by the Detroit Tigers in the 29th round (892nd overall) of the 2006 draft out of the University of New Mexico.
Williams made his professional debut in 2007 with the Staten Island Yankees of the New York-Penn League. Williams hit .276 and drove in 19 runs for the Baby Bombers. He collected 61 hits, 25 runs, 12 doubles and seven stolen bases. Williams was a three-time draft pick, being taken by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2005 and the Florida Marlins in 2006. The Yankees tabbed Williams in the 15th round (484th overall) in the 2007 draft out of Rutgers.
Hill, after wrapping up his senior season at Rutgers last year, spent the remainder of the 2007 professional campaign with the San Diego Padres affiliate in the Arizona League. Hill batted .213 with one home run and 19 runs batted in over 49 games for the AZL Padres. He scored 16 runs and totaled 30 hits. Hill was taken several slots ahead of his Rutgers teammate Williams in the 15th round of last June's draft; he was chosen 477th overall.
Basham was named the 2007 Rookie of the Year in the Frontier League. Basham, playing for the Florence Freedom, hit .298 with a team-high 17 home runs and 74 runs batted in. He finished second on the team with 108 hits. Basham signed with the Freedom as a free agent last April and helped the team to a third place showing in the Frontier League's East Division. He played collegiately at Michigan State University.
Ryan pitched last season in the independent Can-Am League for the Quebec Capitales. Ryan, used primarily as a reliever, went 1-1 with a 6.16 earned run average in 24 appearances. He threw 61.1 innings, struck out 38 and held opponents to a .258 batting average. Ryan, a former UAlbany star, has pitched for "Les Capitales" for the last three years. He also made five appearances for the Fargo-Moorhead Red Hawks in 2006.
In addition, 2004 Golden Eagles Brett Zamzow, Will Groff and Tom Hill all played professionally in 2007. Zamow made 30 appearances for the Clinton LumberKings of the Midwest League. Groff hit .252 in 36 games for the Batavia Muckdogs of the New York-Penn League. Hill, no relation to Ryan Hill, appeared in 25 games for the Burlington Royals of the Appalachian League.
Jeremy Goldschmeding, another 2004 Golden Eagle, played professionally in 2006 with the Vermont Lake Monsters of the New York-Penn League. He retired prior to last season.
Today, the spotlight shines on the 2004 Glens Falls Golden Eagles. The Golden Eagles, in their inaugural season in the New York Collegiate Baseball League, won the Eastern Division regular season title with a record of 31-10 and finished with the league's highest winning percentage (.756). Seven members of the team were named to the NYCBL postseason all-star team and an eighth player, Terry Blunt, was selected as the NYCBL Player of the Year. The Golden Eagles all-stars were Chris Carlson, Jeremy Goldschmeding, David Williams, Brett Zamzow, Shawn Ryan, Ryan Basham and Jeremy Hall.
Eight members of the 2004 Golden Eagles are preparing to play professional baseball in 2008. Those eight players are Terry Blunt, Steve Calicutt, Jeremy Hall, Chris Carlson, David Williams, Ryan Hill, Ryan Basham and Shawn Ryan.
Last season, Blunt played for the California League's Bakersfield Blaze. He's the first former Golden Eagles player to reach High-A. Blunt, in his first full season in High-A, batted .159 in 41 games with six runs batted in, 18 runs scored, 21 hits and nine stolen bases. He had his best professional season in 2006 with the Clinton LumberKings of the Midwest League. Blunt played in 115 games and batted .271 with 45 runs batted in. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Texas Rangers after finishing his collegiate career at Kansas State.
Calicutt pitched for the Augusta GreenJackets of the South Atlantic League in 2007. He went 6-5 with a 3.88 earned run average in 33 appearances and 16 starts. Calicutt also converted two saves. He finished the season strong with three victories in his final four appearances, including a three-hitter over six innings to close the season against Kannapolis. Calicutt, out of East Tennessee State, was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 21st round (626 overall) of the 2006 draft.
Hall started the 2007 season with Princeton of the Appalachian League and finished the year with the South Atlantic League's Columbus Catfish. In 12 starts for the Princeton Devil Rays, Hall went 4-1 with a 1.56 earned run average. He struck out 59 batters in 69.1 innings pitched and held opponents to a .242 batting average. After being called up to Columbus, Hall hurled a four-hitter over six innings to lead the Catfish to a victory over Savannah on August 27. He was signed as a free agent by the Devil Rays after his collegiate career at East Tennessee State. For more on Hall, please click here.
Carlson spent last season with the Oneonta Tigers of the New York-Penn League. He was named the team's Player of the Year and was the Most Valuable Player at the NY-Penn League All-Star Game. For the season, Carlson hit .291 with 10 home runs and 51 RBI. He totaled 75 hits, 44 runs, 21 doubles and 29 walks. Carlson was a Topps Short-Season Rookie All-Star in 2006 with the GCL Tigers of the Gulf Coast League. He was chosen by the Detroit Tigers in the 29th round (892nd overall) of the 2006 draft out of the University of New Mexico.
Williams made his professional debut in 2007 with the Staten Island Yankees of the New York-Penn League. Williams hit .276 and drove in 19 runs for the Baby Bombers. He collected 61 hits, 25 runs, 12 doubles and seven stolen bases. Williams was a three-time draft pick, being taken by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2005 and the Florida Marlins in 2006. The Yankees tabbed Williams in the 15th round (484th overall) in the 2007 draft out of Rutgers.
Hill, after wrapping up his senior season at Rutgers last year, spent the remainder of the 2007 professional campaign with the San Diego Padres affiliate in the Arizona League. Hill batted .213 with one home run and 19 runs batted in over 49 games for the AZL Padres. He scored 16 runs and totaled 30 hits. Hill was taken several slots ahead of his Rutgers teammate Williams in the 15th round of last June's draft; he was chosen 477th overall.
Basham was named the 2007 Rookie of the Year in the Frontier League. Basham, playing for the Florence Freedom, hit .298 with a team-high 17 home runs and 74 runs batted in. He finished second on the team with 108 hits. Basham signed with the Freedom as a free agent last April and helped the team to a third place showing in the Frontier League's East Division. He played collegiately at Michigan State University.
Ryan pitched last season in the independent Can-Am League for the Quebec Capitales. Ryan, used primarily as a reliever, went 1-1 with a 6.16 earned run average in 24 appearances. He threw 61.1 innings, struck out 38 and held opponents to a .258 batting average. Ryan, a former UAlbany star, has pitched for "Les Capitales" for the last three years. He also made five appearances for the Fargo-Moorhead Red Hawks in 2006.
In addition, 2004 Golden Eagles Brett Zamzow, Will Groff and Tom Hill all played professionally in 2007. Zamow made 30 appearances for the Clinton LumberKings of the Midwest League. Groff hit .252 in 36 games for the Batavia Muckdogs of the New York-Penn League. Hill, no relation to Ryan Hill, appeared in 25 games for the Burlington Royals of the Appalachian League.
Jeremy Goldschmeding, another 2004 Golden Eagle, played professionally in 2006 with the Vermont Lake Monsters of the New York-Penn League. He retired prior to last season.
Majors (Hornell '07) Named MIAA Hitter of the Week
Emporia State senior Brian Majors (Hornell '07) has been chosen as the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Hitter of the Week for the week ending March 23, 2008.
Majors hit .522 (12-for-23) in five games for the Emporia State University Hornets last week. Majors recorded at least one hit in all five games and at the time of the award had a 15-game hitting streak. He drove in nine runs and scored eight as the Hornets went undefeated. Majors started the week with four hits, six runs batted in and four runs scored in a 27-10 victory over Newman (Kan.) on Wednesday. He went 4-for-10 on Friday against Missouri Western, recording two hits in each game of a doubleheader to go along with one RBI and two runs scored. At the end of Friday's doubleheader, Majors had recorded four-straight multi-hit games.
The following day against Western, Majors recorded three hits in five at-bats in the opening game as well as one RBI to stretch his streak to five-straight multi-hit games. He recorded just one hit in the night cap.
This spring, Majors is batting .430 with three home runs, 37 runs batted in and a team-leading 46 hits. He has 35 runs scored, seven doubles, one triple and 14 stolen bases on 15 attempts. Majors has at least one hit in 24 of Emporia State's 25 games this season.
The Owasso, Okla., native played for the Hornell Dodgers of the New York Collegiate Baseball League last summer. He batted .310 with 16 runs batted in and 35 runs scored in 37 games for the Blue and White. Majors competed for the Western Division all-stars in the 2007 New York Collegiate Baseball League All-Star Game at Shuttleworth Park.
Majors hit .522 (12-for-23) in five games for the Emporia State University Hornets last week. Majors recorded at least one hit in all five games and at the time of the award had a 15-game hitting streak. He drove in nine runs and scored eight as the Hornets went undefeated. Majors started the week with four hits, six runs batted in and four runs scored in a 27-10 victory over Newman (Kan.) on Wednesday. He went 4-for-10 on Friday against Missouri Western, recording two hits in each game of a doubleheader to go along with one RBI and two runs scored. At the end of Friday's doubleheader, Majors had recorded four-straight multi-hit games.
The following day against Western, Majors recorded three hits in five at-bats in the opening game as well as one RBI to stretch his streak to five-straight multi-hit games. He recorded just one hit in the night cap.
This spring, Majors is batting .430 with three home runs, 37 runs batted in and a team-leading 46 hits. He has 35 runs scored, seven doubles, one triple and 14 stolen bases on 15 attempts. Majors has at least one hit in 24 of Emporia State's 25 games this season.
The Owasso, Okla., native played for the Hornell Dodgers of the New York Collegiate Baseball League last summer. He batted .310 with 16 runs batted in and 35 runs scored in 37 games for the Blue and White. Majors competed for the Western Division all-stars in the 2007 New York Collegiate Baseball League All-Star Game at Shuttleworth Park.
Back-To-Back Weekly BIG EAST Accolades For Brown
For the second-straight week, St. John's University senior George Brown (Watertown '05) has been named the BIG EAST Pitcher of the Week.
Brown hurled a three-hit shutout over seven innings as St. John's defeated Rutgers, 2-0, on March 22 in Piscataway, N.J. Brown allowed three singles, walked one and struck out three. He forced the Scarlet Knights to hit into two double plays and he faced just five batters over the minimum. Brown set down eight-straight Rutgers batters from the second inning through the fourth.
Last week, Brown recorded a career-high 10 strikeouts and allowed just three hits over six innings in a victory over the University at Albany. This season, Brown is 4-0 with a 2.32 earned run average in five starts. He has thrown 31.0 innings, struck out 26 and held opposing hitters to a .205 batting average. The left-handed pitcher leads the team in victories, starts (5) and innings pitched.
The Syracuse, N.Y., native pitched in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2005 Watertown Wizards. He was 1-1 with a 3.29 earned run average in seven appearances. Brown struck out 21 batters in 27.1 innings pitched.
Brown hurled a three-hit shutout over seven innings as St. John's defeated Rutgers, 2-0, on March 22 in Piscataway, N.J. Brown allowed three singles, walked one and struck out three. He forced the Scarlet Knights to hit into two double plays and he faced just five batters over the minimum. Brown set down eight-straight Rutgers batters from the second inning through the fourth.
Last week, Brown recorded a career-high 10 strikeouts and allowed just three hits over six innings in a victory over the University at Albany. This season, Brown is 4-0 with a 2.32 earned run average in five starts. He has thrown 31.0 innings, struck out 26 and held opposing hitters to a .205 batting average. The left-handed pitcher leads the team in victories, starts (5) and innings pitched.
The Syracuse, N.Y., native pitched in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2005 Watertown Wizards. He was 1-1 with a 3.29 earned run average in seven appearances. Brown struck out 21 batters in 27.1 innings pitched.
Davis (GF '08) Takes Home Second MAAC Rookie Award
For the second week in a row, Canisius redshirt freshman pitcher Shane Davis (Glens Falls '08) has been selected as the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week.
Davis pitched a complete game five-hitter as Canisius defeated LeMoyne, 3-1, on March 23 at Dick Rockwell Field in Syracuse, N.Y. Davis allowed one run on five hits, walked none and struck out three to earn his fourth victory of the 2008 season. He stranded six Dolphins on base and retired 15 of the final 18 batters he faced.
The Belmont, Ont., native is 4-0 with a 2.59 earned run average in four starts. He leads the team with four victories and he is second in ERA, innings pitched (24.1) and fourth in strikeouts (11). In his last three appearances, Davis has thrown a combined 23.1 innings and allowed three earned runs.
The Canisius hurler is slated to pitch for the Glens Falls Golden Eagles this summer.
Davis pitched a complete game five-hitter as Canisius defeated LeMoyne, 3-1, on March 23 at Dick Rockwell Field in Syracuse, N.Y. Davis allowed one run on five hits, walked none and struck out three to earn his fourth victory of the 2008 season. He stranded six Dolphins on base and retired 15 of the final 18 batters he faced.
The Belmont, Ont., native is 4-0 with a 2.59 earned run average in four starts. He leads the team with four victories and he is second in ERA, innings pitched (24.1) and fourth in strikeouts (11). In his last three appearances, Davis has thrown a combined 23.1 innings and allowed three earned runs.
The Canisius hurler is slated to pitch for the Glens Falls Golden Eagles this summer.
Gariano (Elmira '08) Tabbed MAAC Pitcher of the Week
Fairfield University sophomore Rob Gariano (Elmira '08) has been chosen as the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 24, 2008.
Gariano pitched a complete game two-hit shutout as Fairfield defeated Marist, 1-0, on March 22 at Alumni Diamond. Garino yielded two hits over the first four innings and then held the Red Foxes without a hit for the remainder of the nine-inning game. The Fairfield sophomore walked two, struck out seven and retired 15 of the last 18 batters he faced. He stranded seven Marist runners on base.
Last season, Gariano pitched a pair of complete game shutouts, including a one-hit performance against Rider in the regular season finale. This spring, Gariano is 2-2 with a 5.68 earned run average in six appearances. He has accumulated a team-high 22 strikeouts in 25.1 innings pitched. Gariano has also made a team-high five starts.
The Nutley, N.J., native will pitch this summer in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the defending league champion Elmira Pioneers.
Gariano pitched a complete game two-hit shutout as Fairfield defeated Marist, 1-0, on March 22 at Alumni Diamond. Garino yielded two hits over the first four innings and then held the Red Foxes without a hit for the remainder of the nine-inning game. The Fairfield sophomore walked two, struck out seven and retired 15 of the last 18 batters he faced. He stranded seven Marist runners on base.
Last season, Gariano pitched a pair of complete game shutouts, including a one-hit performance against Rider in the regular season finale. This spring, Gariano is 2-2 with a 5.68 earned run average in six appearances. He has accumulated a team-high 22 strikeouts in 25.1 innings pitched. Gariano has also made a team-high five starts.
The Nutley, N.J., native will pitch this summer in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the defending league champion Elmira Pioneers.
Petraitis (Rochester '06) Named MAC East Division Player of the Week
Miami University of Ohio junior infielder Jordan Petraitis (Rochester '06) has been selected as the Mid-America Conference East Division Player of the Week for the week ending March 24, 2008.
Petraitis hit .375 (9-for-24) in six games last week for the Red Hawks. He collected one home run, six runs batted in, eight runs scored and three triples as Miami (Ohio) went 3-3. Petraitis recorded at least one hit in all six games and he drove in at least one run in five of six contests. In a three-game series against Toledo, Petraitis hit .417 (5-for-12) and drove in three runs. He connected for two triples in the series opener and scored two runs. After just one hit in the second game, Petraitis belted a two-run home run in the finale.
At the time of the award, Petraitis carried a 14-game hitting streak. After a mid-week game against Dayton, Petraitis is batting .311 with 13 runs batted in and a team-high three home runs. He has 23 hits, 12 runs scored, seven doubles, three triples, 11 walks and a .608 slugging percentage. Petraitis is one of only three players to start all of Miami's 19 games.
The Canal Fulton, Ohio, native was a member of the Rochester Royals during the 2006 New York Collegiate Baseball League season. He helped lead the Royals to a 14-3 finish to the regular season and an appearance in the league playoffs. Petraitis hit .328 and drove in 12 runs in 41 games for Rochester. He was named second-team All-NYCBL at the end of the season.
Petraitis hit .375 (9-for-24) in six games last week for the Red Hawks. He collected one home run, six runs batted in, eight runs scored and three triples as Miami (Ohio) went 3-3. Petraitis recorded at least one hit in all six games and he drove in at least one run in five of six contests. In a three-game series against Toledo, Petraitis hit .417 (5-for-12) and drove in three runs. He connected for two triples in the series opener and scored two runs. After just one hit in the second game, Petraitis belted a two-run home run in the finale.
At the time of the award, Petraitis carried a 14-game hitting streak. After a mid-week game against Dayton, Petraitis is batting .311 with 13 runs batted in and a team-high three home runs. He has 23 hits, 12 runs scored, seven doubles, three triples, 11 walks and a .608 slugging percentage. Petraitis is one of only three players to start all of Miami's 19 games.
The Canal Fulton, Ohio, native was a member of the Rochester Royals during the 2006 New York Collegiate Baseball League season. He helped lead the Royals to a 14-3 finish to the regular season and an appearance in the league playoffs. Petraitis hit .328 and drove in 12 runs in 41 games for Rochester. He was named second-team All-NYCBL at the end of the season.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Shehan (GF '06) Repeats As SoCon Player of the Week
For the second week in a row, Georgia Southern University junior Chris Shehan (Glens Falls '06) has been named the Southern Conference Player of the Week.
Shehan hit .579 (11-for-19) last week as Georgia Southern went undefeated in four games, including a three-game conference sweep of Western Carolina. For the week, he scored seven runs, drove in 11, accrued an .842 slugging percentage and a .636 on-base percentage. Shehan started the week with two hits and one RBI in a mid-week victory over Mercer. The GSU junior pounded out four hits, scored four runs and drove in two others in the first game of the Western Carolina series; Georgia Southern won, 19-10. For an encore, he belted a grand slam and drove in a career-high seven runs in the second game of the series.
The Strasburg, Pa., native leads the Eagles with a .466 batting average and 37 runs batted in. He also paces the team in hits (41), doubles (9), home runs (9), runs scored (33), walks (19), slugging percentage (.898) and on-base percentage (.577).
Shehan's team, Georgia Southern, leads the nation in batting average (.352) and home runs per game (2.32). Earlier this season, the Eagles clouted a Division I record 14 home runs in a game against Columbia.
Shehan played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2006 Glens Falls Golden Eagles.
Shehan hit .579 (11-for-19) last week as Georgia Southern went undefeated in four games, including a three-game conference sweep of Western Carolina. For the week, he scored seven runs, drove in 11, accrued an .842 slugging percentage and a .636 on-base percentage. Shehan started the week with two hits and one RBI in a mid-week victory over Mercer. The GSU junior pounded out four hits, scored four runs and drove in two others in the first game of the Western Carolina series; Georgia Southern won, 19-10. For an encore, he belted a grand slam and drove in a career-high seven runs in the second game of the series.
The Strasburg, Pa., native leads the Eagles with a .466 batting average and 37 runs batted in. He also paces the team in hits (41), doubles (9), home runs (9), runs scored (33), walks (19), slugging percentage (.898) and on-base percentage (.577).
Shehan's team, Georgia Southern, leads the nation in batting average (.352) and home runs per game (2.32). Earlier this season, the Eagles clouted a Division I record 14 home runs in a game against Columbia.
Shehan played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2006 Glens Falls Golden Eagles.
Shaffer (GF '07) Picked As GLVC Player of the Week
Northern Kentucky University junior Jake Shaffer (Glens Falls '07) has been selected as the Great Lakes Valley Conference Player of the Week for the week ending March 23, 2008.
Shaffer hit .667 (10-for-15) in Northern Kentucky's four-game series against conference foe Missouri S&T. He drove in two runs, scored nine runs and ripped seven doubles. Shaffer opened the series with a 5-for-5 performance. He belted two doubles, drove in two runs and scored four times. After going hitless in the second game, Shaffer smashed five doubles and scored five runs in the series-ending doubleheader. The junior transfer doubled twice and scored a run in the opening game and then collected a trio of doubles and scored four runs in the night cap.
The Athol, Mass., native is batting .365 this spring with one home run and 12 runs batted in. He leads the Norse with 10 doubles and he also has 27 hits, 18 runs scored, five walks and eight stolen bases. He is second on the team in batting average to 2008 Glens Falls Golden Eagle Evan McDole (.375).
Shaffer was named first-team All-NYCBL last summer after leading the Glens Falls Golden Eagles to the Eastern Division championship and a 34-6 regular season record. Shaffer hit .333 with one home run and 21 runs batted in. He finished the regular season with 48 hits, 21 runs scored, nine doubles, three triples, 20 walks and nine stolen bases. Shaffer hit .360 in the NYCBL playoffs and drove in five runs in eight games.
Shaffer hit .667 (10-for-15) in Northern Kentucky's four-game series against conference foe Missouri S&T. He drove in two runs, scored nine runs and ripped seven doubles. Shaffer opened the series with a 5-for-5 performance. He belted two doubles, drove in two runs and scored four times. After going hitless in the second game, Shaffer smashed five doubles and scored five runs in the series-ending doubleheader. The junior transfer doubled twice and scored a run in the opening game and then collected a trio of doubles and scored four runs in the night cap.
The Athol, Mass., native is batting .365 this spring with one home run and 12 runs batted in. He leads the Norse with 10 doubles and he also has 27 hits, 18 runs scored, five walks and eight stolen bases. He is second on the team in batting average to 2008 Glens Falls Golden Eagle Evan McDole (.375).
Shaffer was named first-team All-NYCBL last summer after leading the Glens Falls Golden Eagles to the Eastern Division championship and a 34-6 regular season record. Shaffer hit .333 with one home run and 21 runs batted in. He finished the regular season with 48 hits, 21 runs scored, nine doubles, three triples, 20 walks and nine stolen bases. Shaffer hit .360 in the NYCBL playoffs and drove in five runs in eight games.
Kehrt (Geneva '06-'07) Earns GLVC Pitcher of the Week Award
University of Southern Indiana senior Jeremy Kehrt (Geneva '06-'07) has been named the Great Lakes Valley Conference Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 23, 2008.
Kerht pitched a two-hit shutout over six innings as Southern Indiana defeated Quincy, 16-0, on March 22 in Evansville, Ind. Kerht walked four and struck out a career-high 12. Kehrt struck out at least one batter every inning and he fanned three-straight batters twice, in the second and sixth innings. He retired 12-straight batters from the second inning through the fifth and 10 of the outs were strikeouts.
This season, Kehrt is 4-1 with a 3.73 earned run average. He leads the Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles in victories, innings pitched (31.1), strikeouts (37), complete games (1) and shutouts (1). Opponents are batting .242 against the USI senior.
The Plainville, Ind., native was a New York Collegiate Baseball League postseason all-star with the Geneva Red Wings in 2006. He went 4-2 with a 1.77 earned run average in eight appearances. Kehrt led the Wings in strikeouts (46) and innings pitched (56.0) and he tied for the team lead in starts (8) and complete games (3). He made just three appearances for the Red Wings in 2007.
Kerht pitched a two-hit shutout over six innings as Southern Indiana defeated Quincy, 16-0, on March 22 in Evansville, Ind. Kerht walked four and struck out a career-high 12. Kehrt struck out at least one batter every inning and he fanned three-straight batters twice, in the second and sixth innings. He retired 12-straight batters from the second inning through the fifth and 10 of the outs were strikeouts.
This season, Kehrt is 4-1 with a 3.73 earned run average. He leads the Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles in victories, innings pitched (31.1), strikeouts (37), complete games (1) and shutouts (1). Opponents are batting .242 against the USI senior.
The Plainville, Ind., native was a New York Collegiate Baseball League postseason all-star with the Geneva Red Wings in 2006. He went 4-2 with a 1.77 earned run average in eight appearances. Kehrt led the Wings in strikeouts (46) and innings pitched (56.0) and he tied for the team lead in starts (8) and complete games (3). He made just three appearances for the Red Wings in 2007.
Former NYCBL Players Named To NE-10 Honor Roll
Pace University senior Jack Cawley (Elmira '06) and St. Rose junior Nick DiMidio (Amsterdam '06-'07) have been named to the Northeast-10 weekly honor roll for the week ending March 23, 2008.
Cawley hit .357 (10-for-28) in seven games last week for the Pace University Setters. Cawley tallied three home runs, four runs batted in, six runs scored, two stolen bases and a .679 slugging percentage. In a doubleheader against West Chester, Cawley went 3-for-6 with one run batted in, two runs scored and two stolen bases. Cawley scored twice during a 13-run third inning in Pace's 13-3 opening game triumph. He slammed solo home runs against Barton, UNC-Pembroke and Chowan.
The Bronx, N.Y., native is currently batting .392 with five home runs and 15 runs batted in. He leads the team in home runs, hits (29), runs scored (20), walks (11), stolen bases (7) and slugging percentage (.635). He is tied for the team lead in RBI (15).
Cawley was a member of the 2006 Elmira Pioneers. He hit .280 and drove in 16 runs for the Pioneers in 45 games. Cawley totaled 44 hits and a stole a team-high 21 bases on 25 attempts.
DiMidio pitched a complete game four-hit shutout as St. Rose defeated Southern New Hampshire, 4-0, on March 22 in Smithfield, R.I. DiMidio scattered out four hits, walked one and struck out six. He allowed one runner past first base and forced the Penmen to hit into three double plays. DiMidio faced two batters over the minimum during the nine-inning game.
DiMidio is 2-2 with a 4.91 earned run average in four starts for the Golden Knights. He has 22.0 innings pitched, nine walks and 14 strikeouts. DiMidio leads the team's starting pitchers in opponents batting average (.275) and is tied for the team lead in victories (2).
The Scotia, N.Y., native pitched two seasons for the Amsterdam Mohawks (2006, 2007). Last season, DiMidio went 1-1 with a 3.77 earned run average. He struck out 15 batters in 14.1 innings pitched.
Cawley hit .357 (10-for-28) in seven games last week for the Pace University Setters. Cawley tallied three home runs, four runs batted in, six runs scored, two stolen bases and a .679 slugging percentage. In a doubleheader against West Chester, Cawley went 3-for-6 with one run batted in, two runs scored and two stolen bases. Cawley scored twice during a 13-run third inning in Pace's 13-3 opening game triumph. He slammed solo home runs against Barton, UNC-Pembroke and Chowan.
The Bronx, N.Y., native is currently batting .392 with five home runs and 15 runs batted in. He leads the team in home runs, hits (29), runs scored (20), walks (11), stolen bases (7) and slugging percentage (.635). He is tied for the team lead in RBI (15).
Cawley was a member of the 2006 Elmira Pioneers. He hit .280 and drove in 16 runs for the Pioneers in 45 games. Cawley totaled 44 hits and a stole a team-high 21 bases on 25 attempts.
DiMidio pitched a complete game four-hit shutout as St. Rose defeated Southern New Hampshire, 4-0, on March 22 in Smithfield, R.I. DiMidio scattered out four hits, walked one and struck out six. He allowed one runner past first base and forced the Penmen to hit into three double plays. DiMidio faced two batters over the minimum during the nine-inning game.
DiMidio is 2-2 with a 4.91 earned run average in four starts for the Golden Knights. He has 22.0 innings pitched, nine walks and 14 strikeouts. DiMidio leads the team's starting pitchers in opponents batting average (.275) and is tied for the team lead in victories (2).
The Scotia, N.Y., native pitched two seasons for the Amsterdam Mohawks (2006, 2007). Last season, DiMidio went 1-1 with a 3.77 earned run average. He struck out 15 batters in 14.1 innings pitched.
Harvey (Brockport '08) Reels In ASC Weekly Award
Texas Luthern University junior Kyle Harvey (Brockport '08) has been named the American Southwest Conference West Division Player of the Week for the week ending March 24.
Harvey hit .458 (11-for-24) in five games last week for the Bulldogs and helped the team to a 4-1 record. He collected one home run, 11 runs batted in, seven runs scored, one double, one triple and five stolen bases. Harvey's best game of the week came against Howard Payne on March 21. He went 4-for-6 with seven runs batted in and three runs scored as TLU defeated HPU, 24-12. Harvey drove in five runs during a 12-run eighth inning on a three-run home run and a two-run double.
The Texas Lutheran center fielder finished the week with three multi-hit, two multi-RBI and two multi-run games.
He leads the American Southwest Conference with 21 stolen bases on 25 attempts. Harvey is currently batting .380 with four home runs and 23 runs batted in. He leads the Bulldogs with 28 runs scored and four triples and he is tied for second in hits (38).
The Houston, Texas, native is slated to play for the Brockport Riverbats of the New York Collegiate Baseball League this summer.
Harvey hit .458 (11-for-24) in five games last week for the Bulldogs and helped the team to a 4-1 record. He collected one home run, 11 runs batted in, seven runs scored, one double, one triple and five stolen bases. Harvey's best game of the week came against Howard Payne on March 21. He went 4-for-6 with seven runs batted in and three runs scored as TLU defeated HPU, 24-12. Harvey drove in five runs during a 12-run eighth inning on a three-run home run and a two-run double.
The Texas Lutheran center fielder finished the week with three multi-hit, two multi-RBI and two multi-run games.
He leads the American Southwest Conference with 21 stolen bases on 25 attempts. Harvey is currently batting .380 with four home runs and 23 runs batted in. He leads the Bulldogs with 28 runs scored and four triples and he is tied for second in hits (38).
The Houston, Texas, native is slated to play for the Brockport Riverbats of the New York Collegiate Baseball League this summer.
Sottung (GV '05) Tapped As Pitcher of the Week in Empire 8
Ithaca College senior Nick Sottung (Genesee Valley '05) has been chosen as the Empire 8 Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 24.
Sottung pitched a four-hit shutout over six innings as Ithaca defeated Gettysburg, 12-3, on March 21 in Gettysburg, Pa. Sottung scattered four hits, walked three and struck out five. He held the Bullets to one hit through the first five innings. In addition, Sottung forced Gettysburg to strand nine runners on base. The victory was the 25th of Sottung's career, placing him fourth all-time in Ithaca history.
This season, Sottung is 2-1 with a 3.18 earned run average in four appearances. He has allowed eight earned runs in 22.2 innings pitched, walked eight and struck out 16. Sottung is tied for the tied lead in innings pitched, second in ERA and strikeouts and first in starts (four).
The Pulaski, N.Y., native pitched in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2005 Genesee Valley Riverbats. He went 1-1 with a 3.71 earned run average in five appearances. Sottung threw 26.2 innings and struck out 11. Last summer, Sottung pitched for the Green Bay Bullfrogs of the Northwoods League.
Sottung pitched a four-hit shutout over six innings as Ithaca defeated Gettysburg, 12-3, on March 21 in Gettysburg, Pa. Sottung scattered four hits, walked three and struck out five. He held the Bullets to one hit through the first five innings. In addition, Sottung forced Gettysburg to strand nine runners on base. The victory was the 25th of Sottung's career, placing him fourth all-time in Ithaca history.
This season, Sottung is 2-1 with a 3.18 earned run average in four appearances. He has allowed eight earned runs in 22.2 innings pitched, walked eight and struck out 16. Sottung is tied for the tied lead in innings pitched, second in ERA and strikeouts and first in starts (four).
The Pulaski, N.Y., native pitched in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2005 Genesee Valley Riverbats. He went 1-1 with a 3.71 earned run average in five appearances. Sottung threw 26.2 innings and struck out 11. Last summer, Sottung pitched for the Green Bay Bullfrogs of the Northwoods League.
Zongol (Saratoga '06-'07) Does It Again To Earn Conference Accolades
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute senior Joe Zongol (Saratoga '06-'07) has been selected as the Liberty League co-Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 24. It's the second time this season that the former Saratoga Phillies pitcher has earned the award.
Zongol hurled a complete game three-hit shutout as Rensselaer opened conference play with a 2-0 victory over Clarkson. Zongol, in his third start of the season, walked four and struck out a season-high seven in the seven-inning contest. He stranded seven Clarkson runners on base including two in the game's final frame.
Through three starts this season, Zongol is 2-1 with a 0.44 earned run average. He leads the Red Hawks in innings pitched (20.1), strikeouts (16), shutouts (1), complete games (1) and opponents batting average (.143). Earlier this season, Zongol was named Liberty League Pitcher of the Week for a seven-inning, six-strikeout performance against Ripon.
The Flower Mound, Texas, native pitched two seasons for the New York Collegiate Baseball League's Saratoga Phillies (2006, 2007). Zongol helped the Phillies to back-to-back playoff appearances and the 2006 NYCBL championship.
Zongol hurled a complete game three-hit shutout as Rensselaer opened conference play with a 2-0 victory over Clarkson. Zongol, in his third start of the season, walked four and struck out a season-high seven in the seven-inning contest. He stranded seven Clarkson runners on base including two in the game's final frame.
Through three starts this season, Zongol is 2-1 with a 0.44 earned run average. He leads the Red Hawks in innings pitched (20.1), strikeouts (16), shutouts (1), complete games (1) and opponents batting average (.143). Earlier this season, Zongol was named Liberty League Pitcher of the Week for a seven-inning, six-strikeout performance against Ripon.
The Flower Mound, Texas, native pitched two seasons for the New York Collegiate Baseball League's Saratoga Phillies (2006, 2007). Zongol helped the Phillies to back-to-back playoff appearances and the 2006 NYCBL championship.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Niagara Power Flips Switch On Roster
The Niagara Power of the New York Collegiate Baseball League have posted a player roster for the 2008 season. You can view the roster by clicking here.
The 2008 season will be Niagara's second in the New York Collegiate Baseball League. Last year, the brand new Power went 17-25 and finished seventh in the eight-team Western Division. Niagara ended up just one game behind sixth-place Webster and five and a half games out of a playoff spot. Infielder Alec Cabello (Canisius) was Niagara's lone representative on the NYCBL postseason all-star team.
Three players return from last year's inaugural squad: pitchers Neil Cavalieri (Finger Lakes CC) and Drew Hollinghead (Mississippi State) and outfielder Joel Blomberg (Embry-Riddle). Cavalieri was 1-1 with a 3.48 earned run average in 10 appearances in 2007. He held opponents to a .268 batting average. Hollinghead was on the losing end of four decisions and he finished third on the team with seven starts and 33 innings pitched. He made his collegiate debut this spring for Mississippi State after not seeing game action in his first two years. Blomberg was one of Niagara's three representatives in the NYCBL All-Star Game last July. He finished the season batting .217 with one home run and 17 runs batted in. Blomberg's home run was one of Niagara's three home runs all season. He transferred to Embry-Riddle after playing two seasons at Lake Sumter Community College.
Niagara's pitching staff will also boast a former NYCBL all-star. Harrison Helms was a New York Collegiate Baseball League postseason all-star last season with the Bolivar Athletics. He went 2-1 with a team-low 1.50 earned run average in seven appearances. Helms made six starts and pitched two complete games. He struck out 26 in 42 innings pitched. Helms, a native of Matthews, N.C., is currently a sophomore at Niagara University after transferring from Radford.
Sam Kirby will skipper the Power again in 2008. He is in his first season as an assistant coach at Western Oregon University. Prior to WOU, he was an assistant coach at Lane (Ore.) Community College. Kirby will be assisted by Jon Copeland and Mark Norton. Copeland is the head baseball coach at Nyack College. Norton is an assistant coach at Southeastern University.
Niagara plays its home games at Sal Maglie Stadium in Niagara Falls, N.Y. The team is sponsored by the Fellowship of Christian Athletics. For more information, go to http://www.fcabaseball.org
The 2008 season will be Niagara's second in the New York Collegiate Baseball League. Last year, the brand new Power went 17-25 and finished seventh in the eight-team Western Division. Niagara ended up just one game behind sixth-place Webster and five and a half games out of a playoff spot. Infielder Alec Cabello (Canisius) was Niagara's lone representative on the NYCBL postseason all-star team.
Three players return from last year's inaugural squad: pitchers Neil Cavalieri (Finger Lakes CC) and Drew Hollinghead (Mississippi State) and outfielder Joel Blomberg (Embry-Riddle). Cavalieri was 1-1 with a 3.48 earned run average in 10 appearances in 2007. He held opponents to a .268 batting average. Hollinghead was on the losing end of four decisions and he finished third on the team with seven starts and 33 innings pitched. He made his collegiate debut this spring for Mississippi State after not seeing game action in his first two years. Blomberg was one of Niagara's three representatives in the NYCBL All-Star Game last July. He finished the season batting .217 with one home run and 17 runs batted in. Blomberg's home run was one of Niagara's three home runs all season. He transferred to Embry-Riddle after playing two seasons at Lake Sumter Community College.
Niagara's pitching staff will also boast a former NYCBL all-star. Harrison Helms was a New York Collegiate Baseball League postseason all-star last season with the Bolivar Athletics. He went 2-1 with a team-low 1.50 earned run average in seven appearances. Helms made six starts and pitched two complete games. He struck out 26 in 42 innings pitched. Helms, a native of Matthews, N.C., is currently a sophomore at Niagara University after transferring from Radford.
Sam Kirby will skipper the Power again in 2008. He is in his first season as an assistant coach at Western Oregon University. Prior to WOU, he was an assistant coach at Lane (Ore.) Community College. Kirby will be assisted by Jon Copeland and Mark Norton. Copeland is the head baseball coach at Nyack College. Norton is an assistant coach at Southeastern University.
Niagara plays its home games at Sal Maglie Stadium in Niagara Falls, N.Y. The team is sponsored by the Fellowship of Christian Athletics. For more information, go to http://www.fcabaseball.org
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Elmira Pioneers Post Roster
The Elmira Pioneers of the New York Collegiate Baseball League have posted a player roster for the 2008 season. You can view the roster by clicking here.
Elmira, in just its second season in the NYCBL, won the league championship in 2007. Championship manager and former Kansas City Royals first round draft pick Matt Burch returns to skipper the Pioneers in 2008. Last season, Elmira went 24-16 and captured the Western Division flag based on a head-to-head series victory over Geneva. The Pioneers went undefeated through the divisional playoffs and swept Glens Falls in the NYCBL Championship Series.
The Pioneers return three players from last season's championship team: Bryan Thyroff (UNC-Greensboro), JJ Edwards (Sacred Heart) and Ryan Riley (Mansfield). Last year, Thyroff went 3-1 with a 1.85 earned run average and one save in 18 appearances. He pitched 34 innings, struck out 22 and held opponents to a .260 batting average. In the playoffs, Thyroff started and won the second game of Elmira's Western Division finals series against Geneva. Edwards hit .271 with seven RBI over 21 games. He collected 19 hits and scored 10 runs. Riley batted .273 with six runs batted in and six runs scored in 19 games for the Pioneers last season.
Elmira, in its first two years in the league, has never missed the playoffs. The team finished second in the Western Division in 2006 and fought Western Division champion Allegany County to a third game in the first round of the NYCBL playoffs. Five Pioneers earned league accolades last season including 2007 New York Collegiate Baseball League Player of the Year Shane Wolf (Ithaca). Wade Gaynor (Western Kentucky), Darryl Stringfield (Va. Commonwealth), Andre Licinsky (Pace) and Mike Wood (Pittsburgh) were all named to the NYCBL postseason all-star team.
Elmira, in just its second season in the NYCBL, won the league championship in 2007. Championship manager and former Kansas City Royals first round draft pick Matt Burch returns to skipper the Pioneers in 2008. Last season, Elmira went 24-16 and captured the Western Division flag based on a head-to-head series victory over Geneva. The Pioneers went undefeated through the divisional playoffs and swept Glens Falls in the NYCBL Championship Series.
The Pioneers return three players from last season's championship team: Bryan Thyroff (UNC-Greensboro), JJ Edwards (Sacred Heart) and Ryan Riley (Mansfield). Last year, Thyroff went 3-1 with a 1.85 earned run average and one save in 18 appearances. He pitched 34 innings, struck out 22 and held opponents to a .260 batting average. In the playoffs, Thyroff started and won the second game of Elmira's Western Division finals series against Geneva. Edwards hit .271 with seven RBI over 21 games. He collected 19 hits and scored 10 runs. Riley batted .273 with six runs batted in and six runs scored in 19 games for the Pioneers last season.
Elmira, in its first two years in the league, has never missed the playoffs. The team finished second in the Western Division in 2006 and fought Western Division champion Allegany County to a third game in the first round of the NYCBL playoffs. Five Pioneers earned league accolades last season including 2007 New York Collegiate Baseball League Player of the Year Shane Wolf (Ithaca). Wade Gaynor (Western Kentucky), Darryl Stringfield (Va. Commonwealth), Andre Licinsky (Pace) and Mike Wood (Pittsburgh) were all named to the NYCBL postseason all-star team.
Monday, March 24, 2008
This Week's Players of the Week
BIG EAST - Pitcher of the Week
George Brown (Watertown '05), St. John's
Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference - Pitcher, Rookie of the Week
Rob Gariano (Elmira '08), Fairfield
Shane Davis (Glens Falls '08), Canisius
George Brown (Watertown '05), St. John's
Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference - Pitcher, Rookie of the Week
Rob Gariano (Elmira '08), Fairfield
Shane Davis (Glens Falls '08), Canisius
NYCBL Picture of the Week
Courtesy of the Glens Falls Golden Eagles.
Glens Falls at Saratoga, June 17, 2007. Kevin Mahoney (Canisius) takes a pitch at Saratoga's East Side Recreation Park.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Wyland (Plattsburgh '05) Signs With Can-Am's Surf
Steve Wyland (Plattsburgh '05) has signed a free-agent contract with the Atlantic City Surf of the independent Can-Am League for the 2008 season.
Wyland played four seasons at the University at Albany and he captained the team as a senior to the America East championship and an appearance in the NCAA tournament. Wyland was a three-time All-America East selection. As a senior, he led the Great Danes with a .388 batting average, 76 hits, 45 runs batted in and 45 runs scored. Wyland's .388 batting average was tops in America East. He finished his career among UAlbany's all-time leaders in games played (174, 2nd), hits (211, 3rd), runs scored (142, 4th), at-bats (607, 4th), runs batted in (108, 5th) and batting average (.347, 5th).
The Stratford, N.J., native was a member of the New York Collegiate Baseball League's Plattsburgh Thunder in 2005. Wyland hit .288 with one home run and 23 runs batted in for Plattsburgh. He played and started 43 of Plattsburgh's 44 games, recorded 42 hits and scored 21 runs.
This season will be Wyland's first full campaign in the independent Can-Am League. He played in three games last season for the Brockton Rox.
Wyland played four seasons at the University at Albany and he captained the team as a senior to the America East championship and an appearance in the NCAA tournament. Wyland was a three-time All-America East selection. As a senior, he led the Great Danes with a .388 batting average, 76 hits, 45 runs batted in and 45 runs scored. Wyland's .388 batting average was tops in America East. He finished his career among UAlbany's all-time leaders in games played (174, 2nd), hits (211, 3rd), runs scored (142, 4th), at-bats (607, 4th), runs batted in (108, 5th) and batting average (.347, 5th).
The Stratford, N.J., native was a member of the New York Collegiate Baseball League's Plattsburgh Thunder in 2005. Wyland hit .288 with one home run and 23 runs batted in for Plattsburgh. He played and started 43 of Plattsburgh's 44 games, recorded 42 hits and scored 21 runs.
This season will be Wyland's first full campaign in the independent Can-Am League. He played in three games last season for the Brockton Rox.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Schmidt (Glens Falls '08) Garners GLVC Pitcher of the Week Award
Northern Kentucky University sophomore Ryan Schmidt (Glens Falls '08) has been named the Great Lakes Valley Conference Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 17, 2008.
Schmidt pitched a complete game two-hit shutout in Northern Kentucky's 1-0 victory over defending conference champion Drury on March 16. Schmidt allowed two hits, walked two and struck out six in the seven-inning affair. He carried a no-hitter into the fifth inning and forced Drury to strand four runners on base, including one in the seventh.
Schmidt, a sophomore transfer from Ball State, is 1-0 with a team-low 1.12 earned run average. He has 10 strikeouts and leads the Norse with 24 innings pitched.
The Decauter, Ind., native is slated to pitch for the Glens Falls Golden Eagles this summer.
Schmidt pitched a complete game two-hit shutout in Northern Kentucky's 1-0 victory over defending conference champion Drury on March 16. Schmidt allowed two hits, walked two and struck out six in the seven-inning affair. He carried a no-hitter into the fifth inning and forced Drury to strand four runners on base, including one in the seventh.
Schmidt, a sophomore transfer from Ball State, is 1-0 with a team-low 1.12 earned run average. He has 10 strikeouts and leads the Norse with 24 innings pitched.
The Decauter, Ind., native is slated to pitch for the Glens Falls Golden Eagles this summer.
Dill (Hornell '07) Tabbed Gulf South Pitcher of the Week
University of West Alabama senior Brandon Dill (Hornell '07) has been selected as the Gulf South Conference East Division Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 17, 2008. It's the second time that Dill has received the award this season.
Dill finished the week 1-0 with a 0.75 earned earned run average. He made two appearances, allowed one run in 12 innings pitched and struck out eight. Dill pitched three scoreless innings in relief against Columbia Union on March 11 and struck out two. The UWA senior hurled a complete game four-hitter in West Alabama's victory over Alabama-Huntsville, 2-1, on March 15 in Huntsville, Ala. Dill, in his longest outing of the season, allowed one run on four hits, walked four and struck out six. He stranded five Chargers on base.
This season, Dill is 4-0 with a 2.13 earned run average. He has 23 strikeouts in 38 innings pitched. Dill has winning decisions over nationally-ranked Columbus State, Southeastern Louisiana, Arkansas Tech and Alabama-Huntsville.
The Columbus, Miss., native was a New York Collegiate Baseball League all-star last summer with the Hornell Dodgers. Dill went 4-2 with a 0.83 earned run average and a team-high seven saves for the Blue and White. He struck out 43 batters and walked 10 in 32.2 innings pitched. Dill pitched Hornell past Brockport in a one-game playoff for the final playoff spot in the Western Division last summer. Making his only start of the summer, he tossed a complete game and allowed two runs on eight hits, walked none and struck out eight as Hornell bested Brockport, 4-2, at Maple City Park.
Dill finished the week 1-0 with a 0.75 earned earned run average. He made two appearances, allowed one run in 12 innings pitched and struck out eight. Dill pitched three scoreless innings in relief against Columbia Union on March 11 and struck out two. The UWA senior hurled a complete game four-hitter in West Alabama's victory over Alabama-Huntsville, 2-1, on March 15 in Huntsville, Ala. Dill, in his longest outing of the season, allowed one run on four hits, walked four and struck out six. He stranded five Chargers on base.
This season, Dill is 4-0 with a 2.13 earned run average. He has 23 strikeouts in 38 innings pitched. Dill has winning decisions over nationally-ranked Columbus State, Southeastern Louisiana, Arkansas Tech and Alabama-Huntsville.
The Columbus, Miss., native was a New York Collegiate Baseball League all-star last summer with the Hornell Dodgers. Dill went 4-2 with a 0.83 earned run average and a team-high seven saves for the Blue and White. He struck out 43 batters and walked 10 in 32.2 innings pitched. Dill pitched Hornell past Brockport in a one-game playoff for the final playoff spot in the Western Division last summer. Making his only start of the summer, he tossed a complete game and allowed two runs on eight hits, walked none and struck out eight as Hornell bested Brockport, 4-2, at Maple City Park.
Testa (LF '06) Named NEC Pitcher of the Week
Wagner University senior Joe Testa (Little Falls '06) has been chosen as the Akadema Northeast Conference Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 17, 2008.
Testa pitched a one-hit shutout over six innings as Wagner defeated Saint Peter's, 8-3, at Richmond County Bank Ballpark on March 13. Testa allowed a two-out single in the first inning and then he held the Peacocks without a hit for the next five and a third innings. He struck out at least one batter per inning and finished his outing with a season-high 10 strikeouts. Testa did not allow a runner past second base in his 14th career victory at Wagner.
The Brick, N.J., native is currently 2-1 with 20 strikeouts and a 1.42 earned run average. He's allowed just one run in his last 13 innings pitched and has struck out 13. Opponents against Testa are batting a miniscule .188.
Testa is Wagner's all-time leader in strikeouts (248) and he is fifth in innings pitched (228.0).
The Wagner left-handed pitcher was a member of the 2006 Little Falls Diamond Miners. Testa went 5-1 with a 2.74 earned run average for the Miners in nine appearances. He led the New York Collegiate Baseball League with 69 strikeouts in 49.1 innings pitched. Testa pitched the Diamond Miners to the semifinals of the 2006 NYCBL playoffs and he was named first-team All-NYCBL.
Testa pitched a one-hit shutout over six innings as Wagner defeated Saint Peter's, 8-3, at Richmond County Bank Ballpark on March 13. Testa allowed a two-out single in the first inning and then he held the Peacocks without a hit for the next five and a third innings. He struck out at least one batter per inning and finished his outing with a season-high 10 strikeouts. Testa did not allow a runner past second base in his 14th career victory at Wagner.
The Brick, N.J., native is currently 2-1 with 20 strikeouts and a 1.42 earned run average. He's allowed just one run in his last 13 innings pitched and has struck out 13. Opponents against Testa are batting a miniscule .188.
Testa is Wagner's all-time leader in strikeouts (248) and he is fifth in innings pitched (228.0).
The Wagner left-handed pitcher was a member of the 2006 Little Falls Diamond Miners. Testa went 5-1 with a 2.74 earned run average for the Miners in nine appearances. He led the New York Collegiate Baseball League with 69 strikeouts in 49.1 innings pitched. Testa pitched the Diamond Miners to the semifinals of the 2006 NYCBL playoffs and he was named first-team All-NYCBL.
Buffalo's Hains (Watertown '07) Picks Up MAC Accolades
University at Buffalo sophomore Jeff Hains (Watertown '07) has been named to the Mid-America Conference Player of the Week honorable mention list for the week ending March 17, 2008. It's the second time in 2008 that Hains has been selected for the honor.
Hains pitched in two Buffalo victories last week and went 1-0 with a 1.00 earned run average. He came out of the bullpen to throw two scoreless innings against Southern Illinois on March 12 in San Antonio, Texas. Hains allowed just one hit and faced one batter over the minimum. Hains started UB's game against Texas-Pan American on March 15 in the Irish Classic. The Mexico, N.Y., native allowed one run on five hits through seven innings and struck out four as Buffalo defeated UTPA, 2-1. Hains held the Broncs scoreless through six innings and allowed just two runners past first base.
The former Watertown Wizard is currently 1-1 with a 1.93 earned run average in five appearances and two starts. He has eight strikeouts through 23.1 innings pitched and opponents have touched him for just six runs. As a true freshman in 2007, Hains finished 2-1 with a 6.26 earned run average in 10 appearances.
The former Mexico Tiger pitched in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2007 Watertown Wizards. He was 1-2 with a 3.00 earned run average. Hains struck out 22 in 24 innings pitched and finished fourth on the team in ERA. His best performance came against the Saratoga Phillies on July 17. He tossed a two-hit shutout over seven innings and struck out a season-high seven as Watertown defeated Saratoga, 4-1, at Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds.
Hains pitched in two Buffalo victories last week and went 1-0 with a 1.00 earned run average. He came out of the bullpen to throw two scoreless innings against Southern Illinois on March 12 in San Antonio, Texas. Hains allowed just one hit and faced one batter over the minimum. Hains started UB's game against Texas-Pan American on March 15 in the Irish Classic. The Mexico, N.Y., native allowed one run on five hits through seven innings and struck out four as Buffalo defeated UTPA, 2-1. Hains held the Broncs scoreless through six innings and allowed just two runners past first base.
The former Watertown Wizard is currently 1-1 with a 1.93 earned run average in five appearances and two starts. He has eight strikeouts through 23.1 innings pitched and opponents have touched him for just six runs. As a true freshman in 2007, Hains finished 2-1 with a 6.26 earned run average in 10 appearances.
The former Mexico Tiger pitched in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2007 Watertown Wizards. He was 1-2 with a 3.00 earned run average. Hains struck out 22 in 24 innings pitched and finished fourth on the team in ERA. His best performance came against the Saratoga Phillies on July 17. He tossed a two-hit shutout over seven innings and struck out a season-high seven as Watertown defeated Saratoga, 4-1, at Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Brown (Watertown '05) Earns BIG EAST Award
St. John's University senior George Brown has been named the BIG EAST Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 16, 2008. Brown is the fourth former or current New York Collegiate Baseball League player to receive recognition from the BIG EAST this season.
Brown struck out a career-high 10 and allowed one run over six innings as St. John's defeated Albany, 9-2, on March 14 at Jack Kaiser Stadium. Brown fanned six batters through the first three innings and held the Great Danes to three hits. He struck out the side in the third inning and retired 10-straight Great Danes between the second and sixth innings. Brown's previous strikeout career high was six.
Through four appearances, Brown is 3-0 with a 3.00 earned run average. He has allowed eight runs in 24 innings pitched and struck out 23 batters. Brown has held opponents to a .227 batting average. He is tied for the team lead in victories and he is second in innings pitched and third in strikeouts. Brown was tabbed to the BIG EAST honor roll earlier in the season after a victory over Gardner-Webb.
The Syracuse, N.Y., native pitched in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2005 Watertown Wizards. He went 1-1 with a 3.29 earned run average in seven appearances for the Wizards. Brown struck out 21 batters in 27.1 innings pitched.
Brown struck out a career-high 10 and allowed one run over six innings as St. John's defeated Albany, 9-2, on March 14 at Jack Kaiser Stadium. Brown fanned six batters through the first three innings and held the Great Danes to three hits. He struck out the side in the third inning and retired 10-straight Great Danes between the second and sixth innings. Brown's previous strikeout career high was six.
Through four appearances, Brown is 3-0 with a 3.00 earned run average. He has allowed eight runs in 24 innings pitched and struck out 23 batters. Brown has held opponents to a .227 batting average. He is tied for the team lead in victories and he is second in innings pitched and third in strikeouts. Brown was tabbed to the BIG EAST honor roll earlier in the season after a victory over Gardner-Webb.
The Syracuse, N.Y., native pitched in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2005 Watertown Wizards. He went 1-1 with a 3.29 earned run average in seven appearances for the Wizards. Brown struck out 21 batters in 27.1 innings pitched.
Shehan (GF '06) Selected Louisville Slugger National Player of the Week, SoCon Player of the Week
Georgia Southern University junior Chris Shehan (Glens Falls '06) has been chosen as the Southern Conference Player of the Week and a Louisville Slugger National Player of the Week for the week ending March 16, 2008.
Shehan batted .619 (13-for-21) in five games for Georgia Southern with five home runs and 10 runs batted in. He scored 12 runs, collected three doubles and stole six bases. Shehan helped the Eagles to three wins in five contests, including a two-game sweep over USC-Upstate.
The Georgia Southern junior started off his offensive week with his first career multiple-home run game. Shehan smashed a pair of home runs and finished with four RBI as GSU defeated USC-Upstate, 11-8, on March 11. The next day, Shehan didn't go deep, but he went 4-for-4 with four runs scored. Georgia Southern welcomed in Columbia to Statesboro, Ga., last weekend and Shehan greeted the Lions with a two-run home run in the series' opening game.
Saturday, March 15, Shehan was one of 12 Eagles to belt in a home run in Georgia Southern's 26-8 triumph over Columbia. He clouted two home runs and went 4-for-6 with three RBI and a career-high four runs scored. As a team, Georgia Southern set a NCAA record with 14 home runs.
The Strausburg, Pa., native currently leads the Eagles in most offensive categories including batting average (.432), home runs (8), runs batted in (28), hits (32), runs scored (27), slugging percentage (.878) and on-base percentage (.558).
Shehan played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2006 Glens Falls Golden Eagles. He hit .333 (3-for-9) in three games for Glens Falls with two runs batted in.
Shehan batted .619 (13-for-21) in five games for Georgia Southern with five home runs and 10 runs batted in. He scored 12 runs, collected three doubles and stole six bases. Shehan helped the Eagles to three wins in five contests, including a two-game sweep over USC-Upstate.
The Georgia Southern junior started off his offensive week with his first career multiple-home run game. Shehan smashed a pair of home runs and finished with four RBI as GSU defeated USC-Upstate, 11-8, on March 11. The next day, Shehan didn't go deep, but he went 4-for-4 with four runs scored. Georgia Southern welcomed in Columbia to Statesboro, Ga., last weekend and Shehan greeted the Lions with a two-run home run in the series' opening game.
Saturday, March 15, Shehan was one of 12 Eagles to belt in a home run in Georgia Southern's 26-8 triumph over Columbia. He clouted two home runs and went 4-for-6 with three RBI and a career-high four runs scored. As a team, Georgia Southern set a NCAA record with 14 home runs.
The Strausburg, Pa., native currently leads the Eagles in most offensive categories including batting average (.432), home runs (8), runs batted in (28), hits (32), runs scored (27), slugging percentage (.878) and on-base percentage (.558).
Shehan played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2006 Glens Falls Golden Eagles. He hit .333 (3-for-9) in three games for Glens Falls with two runs batted in.
Leigh (Watertown '08) Pegged As OVC co-Pitcher of the Week
Southeast Missouri State redshirt junior James Leigh (Watertown '08) has been chosen as the Ohio Valley Conference co-Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 16, 2008.
Leigh went 2-0 with a 1.13 earned run average in two appearances for the Red Hawks last week. He allowed one earned run through eight innings pitched and struck out 13. Leigh tossed two scoreless frames and struck out three as he earned a victory in relief over Lyon College on March 11. Later in the week, Leigh pitched a four-hitter through six innings and struck out 10 as Southeast Missouri State defeated Memphis, 6-5.
This season, Leigh is 3-0 with a 1.06 earned run average in four appearances (three starts). He has a team-high 28 strikeouts in 17 innings pitched and he has held opposing hitters to a .183 batting average.
The Bryant, Ark., native has been drafted twice by Major League Baseball teams. Coming out of high school, Leigh was selected in the 39th round (1169th overall) of the 2004 draft by the Chicago White Sox. After one season at Texarkana Community College, Leigh was taken by the Minnesota Twins in the 37th round (1125th overall) of the 2005 entry draft.
Leigh is slated to pitch for the Watertown Wizards of the New York Collegiate Baseball League this summer.
Leigh went 2-0 with a 1.13 earned run average in two appearances for the Red Hawks last week. He allowed one earned run through eight innings pitched and struck out 13. Leigh tossed two scoreless frames and struck out three as he earned a victory in relief over Lyon College on March 11. Later in the week, Leigh pitched a four-hitter through six innings and struck out 10 as Southeast Missouri State defeated Memphis, 6-5.
This season, Leigh is 3-0 with a 1.06 earned run average in four appearances (three starts). He has a team-high 28 strikeouts in 17 innings pitched and he has held opposing hitters to a .183 batting average.
The Bryant, Ark., native has been drafted twice by Major League Baseball teams. Coming out of high school, Leigh was selected in the 39th round (1169th overall) of the 2004 draft by the Chicago White Sox. After one season at Texarkana Community College, Leigh was taken by the Minnesota Twins in the 37th round (1125th overall) of the 2005 entry draft.
Leigh is slated to pitch for the Watertown Wizards of the New York Collegiate Baseball League this summer.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Davis (Glens Falls '08) Picked As MAAC Rookie of the Week
Canisius College redshirt freshman Shane Davis (Glens Falls '08) has been selected as the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week for the week ending March 16, 2008.
Davis pitched six strong innings on Saturday, March 15, as Canisius defeated Mt. St. Mary's, 4-2, in the opening game of a non-conference doubleheader. Davis allowed two runs on eight hits, walked one and struck out one. He held Mount scoreless through the first three innings as the Golden Griffs built a 3-0 lead.
Currently, Davis is 3-0 with a 3.52 earned run average in three starts for Canisius. He has eight strikeouts in 15.1 innings pitched and has not lost a decision this season. After allowing four runs in his first collegiate start, Davis has held opponents to three runs in his last 14.2 innings pitched for a 1.84 earned run average.
The Belmont, Ont., native will pitch for the Glens Falls Golden Eagles this summer. He is a former member of the Team Canada Junior National Team and the Team Ontario Canada Cup team.
Davis pitched six strong innings on Saturday, March 15, as Canisius defeated Mt. St. Mary's, 4-2, in the opening game of a non-conference doubleheader. Davis allowed two runs on eight hits, walked one and struck out one. He held Mount scoreless through the first three innings as the Golden Griffs built a 3-0 lead.
Currently, Davis is 3-0 with a 3.52 earned run average in three starts for Canisius. He has eight strikeouts in 15.1 innings pitched and has not lost a decision this season. After allowing four runs in his first collegiate start, Davis has held opponents to three runs in his last 14.2 innings pitched for a 1.84 earned run average.
The Belmont, Ont., native will pitch for the Glens Falls Golden Eagles this summer. He is a former member of the Team Canada Junior National Team and the Team Ontario Canada Cup team.
Spaulding (Watertown '07) Named MAAC Pitcher of the Week
Niagara University sophomore Marcus Spaulding (Watertown '07) has been selected as the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 16, 2008.
Spaulding pitched a two-hit shutout over eight innings in Niagara's 4-3 loss to Cincinnati on Sunday, March 16. He threw a no-hitter through five and two-thirds innings before allowing a sixth-inning double. The Bearcats only other hit was an eighth inning single. Spaulding walked four and struck out six. Through the 112-pitch outing, he induced 10 fly ball outs and six ground ball outs.
This season, Spaulding is 2-0 with an 8.10 earned run average in two starts. Through 10 innings pitched, Spaulding has walked six and struck out nine. He leads the team in victories and is third in strikeouts.
The Copenhagen, N.Y., native pitched in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2007 Watertown Wizards. Spaulding went 1-1 with a 7.71 earned run average in four appearances. He struck out five in seven innings pitched and earned a victory over Little Falls on June 20 with four strikeouts in four innings pitched.
Spaulding pitched a two-hit shutout over eight innings in Niagara's 4-3 loss to Cincinnati on Sunday, March 16. He threw a no-hitter through five and two-thirds innings before allowing a sixth-inning double. The Bearcats only other hit was an eighth inning single. Spaulding walked four and struck out six. Through the 112-pitch outing, he induced 10 fly ball outs and six ground ball outs.
This season, Spaulding is 2-0 with an 8.10 earned run average in two starts. Through 10 innings pitched, Spaulding has walked six and struck out nine. He leads the team in victories and is third in strikeouts.
The Copenhagen, N.Y., native pitched in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2007 Watertown Wizards. Spaulding went 1-1 with a 7.71 earned run average in four appearances. He struck out five in seven innings pitched and earned a victory over Little Falls on June 20 with four strikeouts in four innings pitched.
Lape (Amsterdam '07) Named Louisville Slugger National Player of the Week, C-USA Player of the Week
Marshall University junior Nate Lape (Amsterdam '07) has been chosen as the Conference-USA Hitter of the Week and a Louisville Slugger National Player of the Week for the week ending March 16, 2008.
Lape batted .542 (13-for-24) with five home runs and 11 runs batted in as Marshall went undefeated in six games last week. He added three doubles, 12 runs scored, two stolen bases and two walks for the Thundering Herd.
The Marshall junior went 3-for-4 with two home runs and four RBI as Marshall started the week with a 9-4 victory over Valparaiso on March 11. Lape crushed a solo home run in the second and followed up with a three-run home run in the third inning. He smashed two more home runs against Valparaiso the next day in the opening game of a doubleheader and finished the twin bill 5-for-8 with six runs batted in.
Lape blasted his fifth home run in four games against Virginia Military Institute on March 14. Sunday, he closed out the VMI series with four hits in five at-bats and three runs scored. Lape scored three of Marshall's first four runs in a 7-2 victory over the Keydets.
The Huntington, N.Y., native is currently hitting a team-high .500 with eight home runs and 22 runs batted in. He leads the Thundering Herd in home runs, RBI, hits (30), runs scored (27), doubles (7), walks (8), slugging percentage (1.017) and on-base percentage (.556).
Lape played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2007 Amsterdam Mohawks. He batted .257 with three home runs and 23 runs batted in. Lape tied for a team high with 11 doubles. He was rated among the top 10 prospects in the NYCBL last season by Baseball America and Perfect Game Scouting.
Lape batted .542 (13-for-24) with five home runs and 11 runs batted in as Marshall went undefeated in six games last week. He added three doubles, 12 runs scored, two stolen bases and two walks for the Thundering Herd.
The Marshall junior went 3-for-4 with two home runs and four RBI as Marshall started the week with a 9-4 victory over Valparaiso on March 11. Lape crushed a solo home run in the second and followed up with a three-run home run in the third inning. He smashed two more home runs against Valparaiso the next day in the opening game of a doubleheader and finished the twin bill 5-for-8 with six runs batted in.
Lape blasted his fifth home run in four games against Virginia Military Institute on March 14. Sunday, he closed out the VMI series with four hits in five at-bats and three runs scored. Lape scored three of Marshall's first four runs in a 7-2 victory over the Keydets.
The Huntington, N.Y., native is currently hitting a team-high .500 with eight home runs and 22 runs batted in. He leads the Thundering Herd in home runs, RBI, hits (30), runs scored (27), doubles (7), walks (8), slugging percentage (1.017) and on-base percentage (.556).
Lape played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2007 Amsterdam Mohawks. He batted .257 with three home runs and 23 runs batted in. Lape tied for a team high with 11 doubles. He was rated among the top 10 prospects in the NYCBL last season by Baseball America and Perfect Game Scouting.
Recknagel (Glens Falls '06) Tabbed Big Ten Player of the Week
University of Michigan senior Nate Recknagel (Glens Falls '06) has been selected as the Big Ten Player of the Week for the week ending March 16, 2008.
Recknagel batted .600 (9-for-15) during Michigan's four games at the Centex Homes Invitational Tournament in Myrtle Beach, S.C. He tallied three home runs, nine runs batted in, four runs scored, a 1.267 slugging percentage and a .667 on-base percentage. The Michigan senior clouted a home run in the first inning against Presbyterian (S.C.) to start the tournament and he finished UM's opening game 2-for-2 with three runs batted in.
The Lake Orion, Mich., native blasted his second home run of the tournament, a two-run homer, in the second inning of Michigan's second game (against Ball State). He belted a two-run double in the fourth to tie a single-game career high with four runs batted in. Recknagel smashed his third home run of the tournament against nationally-ranked Coastal Carolina. The senior hammered a two-run home run in the first inning off Chanticleers ace Bobby Gagg to put Michigan ahead, 2-0. He finished the game 2-for-3 with two runs batted in and two runs scored. Recknagel collected two hits in UM's final tournament game as well.
The former Glens Falls Golden Eagles backstop currently leads Michigan in batting average (.396), home runs (6), runs batted in (20), runs scored (16), slugging percentage (.774) and on-base percentage (.484).
Recknagel played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2006 Glens Falls Golden Eagles. He was a NYCBL postseason all-star. He batted .274 with three home runs and a team-high 26 runs batted in. Recknagel played and started 36 games for the Golden Eagles, scored 21 runs and walloped eight doubles.
Last December, Recknagel was named a 2008 Louisville Slugger Preseason All-American by Collegiate Baseball Newspaper.
Recknagel batted .600 (9-for-15) during Michigan's four games at the Centex Homes Invitational Tournament in Myrtle Beach, S.C. He tallied three home runs, nine runs batted in, four runs scored, a 1.267 slugging percentage and a .667 on-base percentage. The Michigan senior clouted a home run in the first inning against Presbyterian (S.C.) to start the tournament and he finished UM's opening game 2-for-2 with three runs batted in.
The Lake Orion, Mich., native blasted his second home run of the tournament, a two-run homer, in the second inning of Michigan's second game (against Ball State). He belted a two-run double in the fourth to tie a single-game career high with four runs batted in. Recknagel smashed his third home run of the tournament against nationally-ranked Coastal Carolina. The senior hammered a two-run home run in the first inning off Chanticleers ace Bobby Gagg to put Michigan ahead, 2-0. He finished the game 2-for-3 with two runs batted in and two runs scored. Recknagel collected two hits in UM's final tournament game as well.
The former Glens Falls Golden Eagles backstop currently leads Michigan in batting average (.396), home runs (6), runs batted in (20), runs scored (16), slugging percentage (.774) and on-base percentage (.484).
Recknagel played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2006 Glens Falls Golden Eagles. He was a NYCBL postseason all-star. He batted .274 with three home runs and a team-high 26 runs batted in. Recknagel played and started 36 games for the Golden Eagles, scored 21 runs and walloped eight doubles.
Last December, Recknagel was named a 2008 Louisville Slugger Preseason All-American by Collegiate Baseball Newspaper.
Vorhees (AC '06) Nabs Second Hitter of the Week Award
For the second time this season, McMurry senior Brent Vorhees (Allegany County '06) has been chosen as the American Southwest Conference West Division Hitter of the Week.
Last week, Vorhees hit .619 (13-for-21) in six games for McMurry with 14 runs batted in. He helped McMurry to five victories in six games, including two over defending conference champion Texas Lutheran. Vorhees started the week with a two-hit, five-RBI performance against nationally-ranked Texas-Tyler in the Abilene Baseball Classic. The following day, Vorhees scored four runs, drove in four runs and collected three hits in a game against Southwestern.
The McMurry senior piled up six hits and seven runs batted in over the three game series against Texas Lutheran. He went 2-for-4 with four runs batted in as McMurry won the series' opening game. Vorhees clouted a home run and scored thrice on Saturday and then closed out the doubleheader with two hits and two RBI during the night cap.
Through 22 games, Vorhees is batting .402 with a conference-leading 37 runs batted in. Earlier this season, he became the American Southwest Conference's career leader in home runs and runs batted in. He was a 2007 D3baseball.com All-American and he is the 2008 American Southwest Conference Preseason Player of the Year.
Vorhees was a member of the 2006 New York Collegiate Baseball League Western Division champion Allegany County Nitros. He batted .287 for the Nitros with one home run and 22 runs batted in.
Last week, Vorhees hit .619 (13-for-21) in six games for McMurry with 14 runs batted in. He helped McMurry to five victories in six games, including two over defending conference champion Texas Lutheran. Vorhees started the week with a two-hit, five-RBI performance against nationally-ranked Texas-Tyler in the Abilene Baseball Classic. The following day, Vorhees scored four runs, drove in four runs and collected three hits in a game against Southwestern.
The McMurry senior piled up six hits and seven runs batted in over the three game series against Texas Lutheran. He went 2-for-4 with four runs batted in as McMurry won the series' opening game. Vorhees clouted a home run and scored thrice on Saturday and then closed out the doubleheader with two hits and two RBI during the night cap.
Through 22 games, Vorhees is batting .402 with a conference-leading 37 runs batted in. Earlier this season, he became the American Southwest Conference's career leader in home runs and runs batted in. He was a 2007 D3baseball.com All-American and he is the 2008 American Southwest Conference Preseason Player of the Year.
Vorhees was a member of the 2006 New York Collegiate Baseball League Western Division champion Allegany County Nitros. He batted .287 for the Nitros with one home run and 22 runs batted in.
Former NYCBL All-Star Chosen As Liberty League Co-Pitcher of the Week
University of Rochester senior Pete McEneaney (Gen. Valley '06) has been named the Liberty League co-Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 16, 2008.
McEneaney pitched a four-hit shutout over eight innings as Rochester defeated Washington University of St. Louis, Mo., 2-0 on March 13 at the University Athletic Association championships. He walked three, struck out six and hit one through the eight scoreless frames. McEneaney induced 11 ground outs and six fly ball outs.
The New York, N.Y., native is a former all-conference selection for the Rochester Yellow Jackets. He was named second-team All-Liberty League in 2006. Last season, McEneaney was 5-5 with a 3.72 earned run average in 12 appearances. He led the Yellow Jackets in innings pitched (67.2) and finished second in victories and strikeouts (46).
McEneaney was a New York Collegiate Baseball League all-star in 2006. He was the ace of the Genesee Valley Riverbats staff with team highs in victories (5), earned run average (2.01) and innings pitched (62.2). He finished second on the team in strikeouts (40) and opponents batting average (.209). McEneaney helped the Riverbats to the 2006 Central Division championship and an appearance in the semifinals of the NYCBL playoffs. At season's end, McEneaney was named first-team All-NYCBL.
McEneaney pitched a four-hit shutout over eight innings as Rochester defeated Washington University of St. Louis, Mo., 2-0 on March 13 at the University Athletic Association championships. He walked three, struck out six and hit one through the eight scoreless frames. McEneaney induced 11 ground outs and six fly ball outs.
The New York, N.Y., native is a former all-conference selection for the Rochester Yellow Jackets. He was named second-team All-Liberty League in 2006. Last season, McEneaney was 5-5 with a 3.72 earned run average in 12 appearances. He led the Yellow Jackets in innings pitched (67.2) and finished second in victories and strikeouts (46).
McEneaney was a New York Collegiate Baseball League all-star in 2006. He was the ace of the Genesee Valley Riverbats staff with team highs in victories (5), earned run average (2.01) and innings pitched (62.2). He finished second on the team in strikeouts (40) and opponents batting average (.209). McEneaney helped the Riverbats to the 2006 Central Division championship and an appearance in the semifinals of the NYCBL playoffs. At season's end, McEneaney was named first-team All-NYCBL.
Former Riverbat Earns Empire 8 Weekly Honor
St. John Fisher College senior Chad King (Brockport '07) has been selected as the Empire 8 Player of the Week for the week ending March 16, 2008.
In the Cardinals doubleheader sweep of Muhlenberg on Saturday, King batted .545 (6-for-11) with two home runs, seven runs batted in and four runs scored. He went 5-for-6 in the opening game with a home run, four runs batted in and two runs scored as St. John Fisher won, 10-7. He belted a solo home run in the first, singled and scored in the third, singled home a run in the fourth and singled in the sixth. In the night cap, King clouted a three-run home run in the midst of a six-run third inning as the Cardinals defeated the Mules, 9-6.
The Baldwinsville, N.Y., native is currently batting .341 with three home runs and 12 runs batted in. He has 14 hits, eight runs scored, two doubles and a .610 slugging percentage. King is also a pitcher for St. John Fisher and he leads the Cardinals with a 0.96 earned run average. He has no decisions in two starts and has recorded six strikeouts in nine and a third innings pitched.
King played for the Brockport Riverbats last summer. He hit .261 in 27 games with one home run, 11 runs batted in and 16 runs scored. In limited pitching duty, King was 2-0 with a 2.16 earned run average. He held opponents to a .237 batting average. Late in the season, King pitched a complete-game five-hitter in a victory over the Webster Yankees.
In the Cardinals doubleheader sweep of Muhlenberg on Saturday, King batted .545 (6-for-11) with two home runs, seven runs batted in and four runs scored. He went 5-for-6 in the opening game with a home run, four runs batted in and two runs scored as St. John Fisher won, 10-7. He belted a solo home run in the first, singled and scored in the third, singled home a run in the fourth and singled in the sixth. In the night cap, King clouted a three-run home run in the midst of a six-run third inning as the Cardinals defeated the Mules, 9-6.
The Baldwinsville, N.Y., native is currently batting .341 with three home runs and 12 runs batted in. He has 14 hits, eight runs scored, two doubles and a .610 slugging percentage. King is also a pitcher for St. John Fisher and he leads the Cardinals with a 0.96 earned run average. He has no decisions in two starts and has recorded six strikeouts in nine and a third innings pitched.
King played for the Brockport Riverbats last summer. He hit .261 in 27 games with one home run, 11 runs batted in and 16 runs scored. In limited pitching duty, King was 2-0 with a 2.16 earned run average. He held opponents to a .237 batting average. Late in the season, King pitched a complete-game five-hitter in a victory over the Webster Yankees.
NYCBL Picture of the Week
Courtesy of the Webster Yankees. Webster's Joe McIntyre (NC A&T) makes the stretch at first base to try and retire Hornell's Cory Bunner (SIU-Edwardsville)
Saturday, March 15, 2008
NYCBL 2008: Fear The Turtle
Eight University of Maryland Terrapins have signed contracts to play in the New York Collegiate Baseball League during the 2008 season. All eight Terps will be competing in the Eastern Division for the Amsterdam Mohawks, Saratoga Phillies and/or Watertown Wizards.
Redshirt sophomore Bryan Hoffman and sophomore Justin Mayse will play for the Amsterdam Mohawks. Hoffman is a 6-foot-6 left-handed pitcher from Arnold, Md. He was redshirted as a true freshman and has yet to see game action for the Terrapins. Hoffman was an all-county selection as a junior by the Baltimore Sun, Washington Post and Annapolis Capitol. He was tabbed all-region in 2005 as a senior and he won the team's Cy Young award with three victories, a 2.21 ERA and 75 strikeouts.
Mayse is a sophomore transfer from Elkton, Md. He played last season at Cecil Community College in Maryland. Prior to Cecil, Mayse was a baseball and golf star at North East High School in North East, Md. He was a four-time all-county honoree and he was named all-region as a senior after hitting .500 in regional play. So far this spring, Mayse has played in six games for the Terps and is batting .273 (3-for-11) with one double and two runs scored.
Freshman Eric Potter and junior Mike Moss are bound for the Spa City to play for the Saratoga Phillies. Potter is a left-handed pitcher from Odenton, Md. Potter was an all-county choice as a senior at Arundel High School. He helped Arundel to a pair of county championships (2006, 2007) and the 2006 Maryland state championship. This spring, Potter is 1-0 with a 5.40 earned run average in six appearances. He earned his first collegiate victory over Hofstra on March 1 with two and a third innings of scoreless relief.
Moss is in his third season as a backstop for the Terps. He turned in career highs last season in games played (28), batting average (.284), hits (19) and runs batted in (11). Prior to Maryland, Moss was a two-time all-metro pick by the Washington Post and a two-time all-county selection. Through seven games this year, Moss is hitting .286 with one home run and two runs batted in. He slammed a two-run home run, as a pinch hitter, at nationally-ranked Coastal Carolina on Feb. 24.
Freshman Reid Chenworth, redshirt sophomore John Dischert, junior Brett Jones and freshman Curtis Lazar will all wear the purple and yellow of the Watertown Wizards. Chenworth is a true freshman from Bel Air, Md. The 6-foot-5 left-handed swinger led Calvert Hall to a 33-0 record and a Maryland state championship in 2007. He batted .483 with four home runs and 35 RBI. Chenworth was tabbed first-team all-league, all-county and all-metro. He has appeared in two games this season for the Terps.
Dischert is a left-handed pitcher from Wilmington, Del., that has not seen game action since 2006. He sat out all of 2007 and has yet to take the mound for the Terrapins in 2008. In 2006, Dischert was the lone Maryland freshman to pitch. He went 3-3 with a 5.72 earned run average in 21 appearances. He made eight starts, pitched 45.2 innings and struck out 29. Dischert earned non-conference victories over East Carolina, Mt. St. Mary's and James Madison. Prior to UM, he was the Gatorade Player of the Year in Delaware as a senior and a first-team All-America. He earned back-to-back Delaware Player of the Year honors (2004, 2005) from Louisville Slugger. The Philadelphia Phillies chose Dischert in the 42nd round (1264th overall) of the 2005 Major League Baseball entry draft.
Jones is a right-handed pitcher from Dunkirk, Md. He made a career-high 11 appearances last season for the Terps and went 1-0 with a 5.68 earned run average. Jones struck out 12 in 12.1 innings pitched and earned a win against Maryland Eastern Shore. He missed a majority of the 2006 season due to injury after making six appearances as a true freshman in 2005. Before Maryland, Jones was a Washington Post All-Met selection as a junior and a two-time all-county choice. This season, Jones is 1-0 with a 3.72 ERA in six appearances. He threw two scoreless innings against Hofstra on March 1 and earned a victory. Saturday, Jones worked three shutout innings and struck out six in a 5-4 loss to Wake Forest.
Lazar is a freshman from Stafford, Va. The 6-foot-4 left-handed swinger was a four-year letterwinner in baseball at Mountain View High School. He captained the team for two years and was a four-time all-academic selection. This spring, Lazar is hitting .571 (4-for-7) with two runs batted in. He has played in five games and started one. He drove in two runs on February 29 against Hofstra.
Redshirt sophomore Bryan Hoffman and sophomore Justin Mayse will play for the Amsterdam Mohawks. Hoffman is a 6-foot-6 left-handed pitcher from Arnold, Md. He was redshirted as a true freshman and has yet to see game action for the Terrapins. Hoffman was an all-county selection as a junior by the Baltimore Sun, Washington Post and Annapolis Capitol. He was tabbed all-region in 2005 as a senior and he won the team's Cy Young award with three victories, a 2.21 ERA and 75 strikeouts.
Mayse is a sophomore transfer from Elkton, Md. He played last season at Cecil Community College in Maryland. Prior to Cecil, Mayse was a baseball and golf star at North East High School in North East, Md. He was a four-time all-county honoree and he was named all-region as a senior after hitting .500 in regional play. So far this spring, Mayse has played in six games for the Terps and is batting .273 (3-for-11) with one double and two runs scored.
Freshman Eric Potter and junior Mike Moss are bound for the Spa City to play for the Saratoga Phillies. Potter is a left-handed pitcher from Odenton, Md. Potter was an all-county choice as a senior at Arundel High School. He helped Arundel to a pair of county championships (2006, 2007) and the 2006 Maryland state championship. This spring, Potter is 1-0 with a 5.40 earned run average in six appearances. He earned his first collegiate victory over Hofstra on March 1 with two and a third innings of scoreless relief.
Moss is in his third season as a backstop for the Terps. He turned in career highs last season in games played (28), batting average (.284), hits (19) and runs batted in (11). Prior to Maryland, Moss was a two-time all-metro pick by the Washington Post and a two-time all-county selection. Through seven games this year, Moss is hitting .286 with one home run and two runs batted in. He slammed a two-run home run, as a pinch hitter, at nationally-ranked Coastal Carolina on Feb. 24.
Freshman Reid Chenworth, redshirt sophomore John Dischert, junior Brett Jones and freshman Curtis Lazar will all wear the purple and yellow of the Watertown Wizards. Chenworth is a true freshman from Bel Air, Md. The 6-foot-5 left-handed swinger led Calvert Hall to a 33-0 record and a Maryland state championship in 2007. He batted .483 with four home runs and 35 RBI. Chenworth was tabbed first-team all-league, all-county and all-metro. He has appeared in two games this season for the Terps.
Dischert is a left-handed pitcher from Wilmington, Del., that has not seen game action since 2006. He sat out all of 2007 and has yet to take the mound for the Terrapins in 2008. In 2006, Dischert was the lone Maryland freshman to pitch. He went 3-3 with a 5.72 earned run average in 21 appearances. He made eight starts, pitched 45.2 innings and struck out 29. Dischert earned non-conference victories over East Carolina, Mt. St. Mary's and James Madison. Prior to UM, he was the Gatorade Player of the Year in Delaware as a senior and a first-team All-America. He earned back-to-back Delaware Player of the Year honors (2004, 2005) from Louisville Slugger. The Philadelphia Phillies chose Dischert in the 42nd round (1264th overall) of the 2005 Major League Baseball entry draft.
Jones is a right-handed pitcher from Dunkirk, Md. He made a career-high 11 appearances last season for the Terps and went 1-0 with a 5.68 earned run average. Jones struck out 12 in 12.1 innings pitched and earned a win against Maryland Eastern Shore. He missed a majority of the 2006 season due to injury after making six appearances as a true freshman in 2005. Before Maryland, Jones was a Washington Post All-Met selection as a junior and a two-time all-county choice. This season, Jones is 1-0 with a 3.72 ERA in six appearances. He threw two scoreless innings against Hofstra on March 1 and earned a victory. Saturday, Jones worked three shutout innings and struck out six in a 5-4 loss to Wake Forest.
Lazar is a freshman from Stafford, Va. The 6-foot-4 left-handed swinger was a four-year letterwinner in baseball at Mountain View High School. He captained the team for two years and was a four-time all-academic selection. This spring, Lazar is hitting .571 (4-for-7) with two runs batted in. He has played in five games and started one. He drove in two runs on February 29 against Hofstra.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Putney (Bolivar '07) To Pitch In Nicaragua
George Fox sophomore Mark Putney (Bolivar '07) has signed a contract with the Athletes In Action program to pitch in Nicaragua this summer.
NYCBL 2008: Oriskany's Allen To Play For Miners This Summer
The Little Falls Miners of the New York Collegiate Baseball League have signed Oriskany, N.Y., native Todd Allen for the 2008 season. Allen is a junior at the University of Vermont.
Allen transferred to the Burlington, Vt., school after two successful seasons at Herkimer Community College. He was a two-time NJCAA Division III All-American and he helped the Generals to back-to-back appearances in the NJCAA Division III World Series and two-straight Region III crowns. As a senior, Allen was Herkimer Community College's Male Athlete of the Year and he was tabbed first-team all-conference and all-region. He batted .479, 11th highest in the nation, with four home runs and 38 runs batted in.
As a freshman, Allen became Herkimer Community College's first NJCAA Division III All-American in baseball. He batted .480 with two home runs, 40 runs batted in and 58 hits. Allen helped the Generals to an undefeated record in Mountain Valley Conference play.
Prior to HCC, Allen starred on the playing fields of Oriskany High School. He was a three-sport star excelling in baseball, football and basketball. Allen was a four-year starter at quarterback on the football field and was a first-team all-league quarterback as a senior. He closed out his high school baseball career by being named first-team all-state.
This spring, Allen is batting .385 (5-for-13) in five games for the University of Vermont. He has made four starts through eight games and driven in three runs for the Catamounts.
Allen transferred to the Burlington, Vt., school after two successful seasons at Herkimer Community College. He was a two-time NJCAA Division III All-American and he helped the Generals to back-to-back appearances in the NJCAA Division III World Series and two-straight Region III crowns. As a senior, Allen was Herkimer Community College's Male Athlete of the Year and he was tabbed first-team all-conference and all-region. He batted .479, 11th highest in the nation, with four home runs and 38 runs batted in.
As a freshman, Allen became Herkimer Community College's first NJCAA Division III All-American in baseball. He batted .480 with two home runs, 40 runs batted in and 58 hits. Allen helped the Generals to an undefeated record in Mountain Valley Conference play.
Prior to HCC, Allen starred on the playing fields of Oriskany High School. He was a three-sport star excelling in baseball, football and basketball. Allen was a four-year starter at quarterback on the football field and was a first-team all-league quarterback as a senior. He closed out his high school baseball career by being named first-team all-state.
This spring, Allen is batting .385 (5-for-13) in five games for the University of Vermont. He has made four starts through eight games and driven in three runs for the Catamounts.
Sumner (Brockport '07) Is New Jersey City Hits King
Former New York Collegiate Baseball League all-star Rob Sumner (Brockport '07) has become the all-time hits leader at New Jersey City University. Sumner, a senior, broke the record with a 2-for-4 performance in NCJU's 2-1 loss to Penn State-Altoona on Thursday in Orlando, Fla. He also holds the school record for career runs scored and stolen bases.
Sumner was an all-state and all-region selection for the Gothic Knights last season. He batted .385 with six home runs, 35 runs batted in and 45 runs scored. Sumner added seven doubles, three triples, 20 walks and 24 stolen bases. He led the team in home runs, runs scored and stolen bases. In late March, Sumner became the second NJCU player to be named the national Hitter of the Week by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA).
As a sophomore, Sumner was a first team all-conference, all-region and all-state honoree. He was the second player in school history to reach 100 career hits in two seasons and the first to accomplish the feat as a sophomore. He was the City University of New York Athletic Conference (CUNYAC) Rookie of the Year as a freshman after he broke a 19-year old school record with 46 runs scored as a rookie.
For his career, the Union, N.J., native has 168 hits, 83 stolen bases and 146 runs scored. He may graduate as one of the most decorated players in New Jersey City University baseball history.
This season, Sumner is batting .342 with two home runs, three runs batted in and 10 runs scored. He leads the team in stolen bases (5) and runs scored and is second in on-base percentage (.432).
Sumner was a second team All-NYCBL honoree last summer. He played for the Brockport Riverbats. Sumner hit .337 with two home runs and 17 RBI to go along with 17 runs scored and 10 stolen bases. The speedy outfielder was a key component in Brockport's season-ending eight-game winning streak. He was one of a few players selected to the postseason all-star team that did not compete in the NYCBL All-Star Game in July.
Sumner was an all-state and all-region selection for the Gothic Knights last season. He batted .385 with six home runs, 35 runs batted in and 45 runs scored. Sumner added seven doubles, three triples, 20 walks and 24 stolen bases. He led the team in home runs, runs scored and stolen bases. In late March, Sumner became the second NJCU player to be named the national Hitter of the Week by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA).
As a sophomore, Sumner was a first team all-conference, all-region and all-state honoree. He was the second player in school history to reach 100 career hits in two seasons and the first to accomplish the feat as a sophomore. He was the City University of New York Athletic Conference (CUNYAC) Rookie of the Year as a freshman after he broke a 19-year old school record with 46 runs scored as a rookie.
For his career, the Union, N.J., native has 168 hits, 83 stolen bases and 146 runs scored. He may graduate as one of the most decorated players in New Jersey City University baseball history.
This season, Sumner is batting .342 with two home runs, three runs batted in and 10 runs scored. He leads the team in stolen bases (5) and runs scored and is second in on-base percentage (.432).
Sumner was a second team All-NYCBL honoree last summer. He played for the Brockport Riverbats. Sumner hit .337 with two home runs and 17 RBI to go along with 17 runs scored and 10 stolen bases. The speedy outfielder was a key component in Brockport's season-ending eight-game winning streak. He was one of a few players selected to the postseason all-star team that did not compete in the NYCBL All-Star Game in July.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Gorman (Watertown '08) Named Patriot League Player of the Week
Holy Cross junior Jake Gorman (Watertown '08) has been selected as the Patriot League Player of the Week for the week ending March 9, 2008.
Gorman batted .387 (12-for-31) with one home run, six RBI and nine runs scored in seven games for the Crusaders last week. Gorman helped Holy Cross to a 4-3 record at the Rollins Baseball Week tournament. He recorded at least one hit in every game and scored at least one run in six of seven Holy Cross contests. Gorman collected six hits in the Crusaders first three games of the tournament. He also clobbered a three-run home run against St. Joseph's (Pa.) on March 4. In two other games against St. Joseph's (Pa.), he combined for four hits, three runs scored and two RBI, including a walk-off single in the Crusaders, 7-6, 11-inning victory on March 8. Gorman was named to the all-tournament team.
The Norfolk, Mass., native is currently batting .361 with one home run and eight runs batted in. He leads the team with 13 hits, 12 runs scored, 23 total bases and 38 assists. Gorman was a second-team All-Patriot League selection as a freshman.
Gorman will play in the New York Collegiate Baseball League this summer for the Watertown Wizards.
Gorman batted .387 (12-for-31) with one home run, six RBI and nine runs scored in seven games for the Crusaders last week. Gorman helped Holy Cross to a 4-3 record at the Rollins Baseball Week tournament. He recorded at least one hit in every game and scored at least one run in six of seven Holy Cross contests. Gorman collected six hits in the Crusaders first three games of the tournament. He also clobbered a three-run home run against St. Joseph's (Pa.) on March 4. In two other games against St. Joseph's (Pa.), he combined for four hits, three runs scored and two RBI, including a walk-off single in the Crusaders, 7-6, 11-inning victory on March 8. Gorman was named to the all-tournament team.
The Norfolk, Mass., native is currently batting .361 with one home run and eight runs batted in. He leads the team with 13 hits, 12 runs scored, 23 total bases and 38 assists. Gorman was a second-team All-Patriot League selection as a freshman.
Gorman will play in the New York Collegiate Baseball League this summer for the Watertown Wizards.
Zongol (Saratoga '06-'07) Selected As Liberty League Pitcher of the Week
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute senior Joe Zongol (Saratoga '06-'07) has been chosen as the Liberty League Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 9, 2008.
Zongol hurled a two-hit shutout over seven innings as RPI defeated 2007 NCAA Division III tournament participant Ripon, 10-0, on March 9. Zongol allowed a pair of singles, walked one and struck out six in his first victory of the season.
Last year, the lanky left-handed pitcher led Rensselaer and the Liberty League in earned run average (1.30), wins (6), innings pitched (69.1), strikeouts (74) and fewest earned runs allowed (10). He also pitched three shutouts and five complete games. Zongol was tabbed first-team All-Liberty League.
The Flower Mound, Texas, native has spent the last two summers with the Saratoga Phillies of the New York Collegiate Baseball League. In two campaigns with Saratoga, he is 4-5 with a 3.39 earned run average in 74.1 innings pitched. Last summer, Zongol was 2-2 with a 3.14 earned run average in nine appearances with seven starts. He struck out 36 and held opponents to a .227 batting average.
Zongol hurled a two-hit shutout over seven innings as RPI defeated 2007 NCAA Division III tournament participant Ripon, 10-0, on March 9. Zongol allowed a pair of singles, walked one and struck out six in his first victory of the season.
Last year, the lanky left-handed pitcher led Rensselaer and the Liberty League in earned run average (1.30), wins (6), innings pitched (69.1), strikeouts (74) and fewest earned runs allowed (10). He also pitched three shutouts and five complete games. Zongol was tabbed first-team All-Liberty League.
The Flower Mound, Texas, native has spent the last two summers with the Saratoga Phillies of the New York Collegiate Baseball League. In two campaigns with Saratoga, he is 4-5 with a 3.39 earned run average in 74.1 innings pitched. Last summer, Zongol was 2-2 with a 3.14 earned run average in nine appearances with seven starts. He struck out 36 and held opponents to a .227 batting average.
Salem (Bennington '08) Selected MAAC Rookie of the Week
Manhattan freshman Chad Salem (Bennington '08) has been named the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week for the week ending March 10, 2008.
Salem hit .333 (3-for-9) in Manhattan's three-games last week with four runs batted in, five runs scored and one home run. Saturday, Salem powered the Jaspers offense in a road doubleheader sweep of Maryland-Baltimore County. In the opening game, he clouted his first collegiate home run (a two-run homer), scored three runs and drove in a career-high four. Salem scored two of the Jaspers four runs in the nightcap to help Manhattan slide past UMBC, 4-3.
The former Iona Prep star leads the Jaspers in batting average (.375), runs batted in (10) and slugging percentage (.577). He also has 10 hits, eight runs scored and two doubles. Last year, he was a CHSAA All-Archdiocesan selection and he was tabbed first-team all-county and first-team All-Journal News at Iona Prep.
Salem will play in the New York Collegiate Baseball League this summer for the Bennington Bombers.
Salem hit .333 (3-for-9) in Manhattan's three-games last week with four runs batted in, five runs scored and one home run. Saturday, Salem powered the Jaspers offense in a road doubleheader sweep of Maryland-Baltimore County. In the opening game, he clouted his first collegiate home run (a two-run homer), scored three runs and drove in a career-high four. Salem scored two of the Jaspers four runs in the nightcap to help Manhattan slide past UMBC, 4-3.
The former Iona Prep star leads the Jaspers in batting average (.375), runs batted in (10) and slugging percentage (.577). He also has 10 hits, eight runs scored and two doubles. Last year, he was a CHSAA All-Archdiocesan selection and he was tabbed first-team all-county and first-team All-Journal News at Iona Prep.
Salem will play in the New York Collegiate Baseball League this summer for the Bennington Bombers.
Spina (Amsterdam '08) Named Big East Player of the Week
Cincinnati junior Mike Spina (Amsterdam '08) has been chosen as the BIG EAST Player of the Week for the week ending March 10, 2008. He is the third straight player with a New York Collegiate Baseball League connection to win the award, Pittsburgh's Sean Conley (Watertown '05) and St. John's Joe Witkowski (Little Falls '07) are the other two recipients.
Spina went 3-for-4 with seven runs batted in as Cincinnati defeated Marshall, 10-5, last Wednesday. It was the Bearcats only game of the week. Spina collected a pair of three-run home runs, a single and a sacrifice fly to go along with a 2.250 slugging percentage. The UC junior opened the scoring in the first inning with a sacrifice fly. He clouted his first three-run home run in the second inning to extend Cincinnati's lead to 6-1. Two innings later, Spina slammed his second three-run bomb of the game.
The Newberry, Fla., native is currently batting .278 with a team-high two home runs and 11 runs batted in. Spina has 10 hits, two doubles, three runs scored and he has played and started all of Cincinnati's 10 games. Prior to Cincinnati, Spina played baseball at Florida Community College. He was a first-team all-conference selection as a sophomore and second-team all-state. Spina batted .373 with six home runs and 35 RBI in his final season at FCC.
Spina will play for the Amsterdam Mohawks of the New York Collegiate Baseball League this summer. Former Cincinnati player Jon DeLuca was a first team NYCBL all-star in 2005 and helped the Mohawks to the Eastern Division regular season title.
Spina went 3-for-4 with seven runs batted in as Cincinnati defeated Marshall, 10-5, last Wednesday. It was the Bearcats only game of the week. Spina collected a pair of three-run home runs, a single and a sacrifice fly to go along with a 2.250 slugging percentage. The UC junior opened the scoring in the first inning with a sacrifice fly. He clouted his first three-run home run in the second inning to extend Cincinnati's lead to 6-1. Two innings later, Spina slammed his second three-run bomb of the game.
The Newberry, Fla., native is currently batting .278 with a team-high two home runs and 11 runs batted in. Spina has 10 hits, two doubles, three runs scored and he has played and started all of Cincinnati's 10 games. Prior to Cincinnati, Spina played baseball at Florida Community College. He was a first-team all-conference selection as a sophomore and second-team all-state. Spina batted .373 with six home runs and 35 RBI in his final season at FCC.
Spina will play for the Amsterdam Mohawks of the New York Collegiate Baseball League this summer. Former Cincinnati player Jon DeLuca was a first team NYCBL all-star in 2005 and helped the Mohawks to the Eastern Division regular season title.
NYCBL 2008: 2007 Empire 8 Player of the Year To Wear Webster Pinstripes
The Webster Yankees of the New York Collegiate Baseball League have signed Rochester Institute of Technology sophomore Geoff Dornes for the 2008 season. Former RIT pitcher Dylan Rees starred for the Rochester Royals during the 2006 NYCBL season.
Dornes, as a true freshman, was the Empire 8 Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year in 2007. He is the only player in conference history to win both awards in the same season. Dornes was also named first-team all-conference, second-team all-region and the Rochester Area College Athletics Player of the Year. Dornes hit .452 with 57 hits, 22 runs batted in, 35 runs scored, 10 extra-base hits and a .563 slugging percentage. His 57 hits were one shy of tying the single-season school record. In addition, Dornes put together a .535 on-base percentage is the third highest all-time at RIT. He also tallied 17 multi-hit games and recorded at least one hit in 31 of RIT's 36 games. On the mound, the RIT frosh went 2-3 with a 4.13 ERA in four starts. He pitched 28.1 innings and struck out 18.
This season, the Landsville, Pa., native is batting .261 through Rochester Tech's first six games with one home run and eight runs batted in. He has six hits, six runs and six walks in 23 at-bats. He belted his first collegiate home run on March 4 against Villa Julie College in Myrtle Beach, S.C. Dornes' lone mound appearance of 2008 came in the Tigers season-opener against Catholic, he lasted five innings.
Dornes, as a true freshman, was the Empire 8 Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year in 2007. He is the only player in conference history to win both awards in the same season. Dornes was also named first-team all-conference, second-team all-region and the Rochester Area College Athletics Player of the Year. Dornes hit .452 with 57 hits, 22 runs batted in, 35 runs scored, 10 extra-base hits and a .563 slugging percentage. His 57 hits were one shy of tying the single-season school record. In addition, Dornes put together a .535 on-base percentage is the third highest all-time at RIT. He also tallied 17 multi-hit games and recorded at least one hit in 31 of RIT's 36 games. On the mound, the RIT frosh went 2-3 with a 4.13 ERA in four starts. He pitched 28.1 innings and struck out 18.
This season, the Landsville, Pa., native is batting .261 through Rochester Tech's first six games with one home run and eight runs batted in. He has six hits, six runs and six walks in 23 at-bats. He belted his first collegiate home run on March 4 against Villa Julie College in Myrtle Beach, S.C. Dornes' lone mound appearance of 2008 came in the Tigers season-opener against Catholic, he lasted five innings.
Spisak (Geneva '07) Tabbed PSAC Eastern Division Player of the Week (3/4)
West Chester junior Nick Spisak (Geneva '07) was named the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern Division Player of the Week for the week ending March 4, 2008.
Spisak batted .424 (14-for-33) with 11 runs scored as the Golden Rams opened the season with eight-straight victories. He also drove in four runs and tallied four extra-base hits. After recording one hit in West Chester's season opener, Spisak went 5-for-6 with four runs scored, two stolen bases and a double in the Golden Rams' 8-1 victory over Felician on February 23. The junior scored seven runs in West Chester's three-game swing through the season-opening Myrtle Beach tournament.
The Millersville, Pa., provided all West Chester's offense in a 2-1 victory over area-rival Penn on February 29. He smashed a two-run single in the seventh inning and finished the game with two hits. Spisak totaled six hits, two RBI and four runs scored in West Chester's four-game sweep over UMass Lowell to start March.
The West Chester junior is currently batting .436 through the team's first 10 games. He leads the team in hits (17) and runs scored (13). The Golden Rams are off to a 10-0 start. Spisak was chosen first-team All-PSAC East last season and was the PSAC East Rookie of the Year. For his exploits on the field and in the classroom, he was voted as West Chester's Male Scholar Athlete of the Year.
Spisak played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2007 Geneva Red Wings. He batted .273 with one home run, eight runs batted in and 16 runs scored. Spisak helped the Reds Wings to the NYCBL playoffs and an appearance in the Western Division Championship Series for the first time since 2003.
Spisak batted .424 (14-for-33) with 11 runs scored as the Golden Rams opened the season with eight-straight victories. He also drove in four runs and tallied four extra-base hits. After recording one hit in West Chester's season opener, Spisak went 5-for-6 with four runs scored, two stolen bases and a double in the Golden Rams' 8-1 victory over Felician on February 23. The junior scored seven runs in West Chester's three-game swing through the season-opening Myrtle Beach tournament.
The Millersville, Pa., provided all West Chester's offense in a 2-1 victory over area-rival Penn on February 29. He smashed a two-run single in the seventh inning and finished the game with two hits. Spisak totaled six hits, two RBI and four runs scored in West Chester's four-game sweep over UMass Lowell to start March.
The West Chester junior is currently batting .436 through the team's first 10 games. He leads the team in hits (17) and runs scored (13). The Golden Rams are off to a 10-0 start. Spisak was chosen first-team All-PSAC East last season and was the PSAC East Rookie of the Year. For his exploits on the field and in the classroom, he was voted as West Chester's Male Scholar Athlete of the Year.
Spisak played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2007 Geneva Red Wings. He batted .273 with one home run, eight runs batted in and 16 runs scored. Spisak helped the Reds Wings to the NYCBL playoffs and an appearance in the Western Division Championship Series for the first time since 2003.
NYCBL 2008: Riverbats Doing Texas Two-Step Again
The Brockport Riverbats of the New York Collegiate Baseball League have signed Texas Lutheran sophomores Ryan Nokelby and Logan Hull and junior Kyle Harvey for the 2008 season. It marks the second year in a row that the Riverbats have had talent from Texas Lutheran.
Nokelby was an all-conference and all-region selection last year as a true freshman. He set a Texas Lutheran record for at-bats in a single season (202) and started all of TLU's 48 games. Nokelby hit .363 with 73 hits, 13 doubles, 37 runs batted in and one home run. He stole 12 bases on 15 attempts and tallied a .437 on-base percentage. Nokelby put together a trio of three-hit games in the America Southwest Conference playoffs and followed up with six hits at the NCAA Division III regional playoffs. So far this season, the Santa Fe, Texas, native is hitting .388 with 26 hits, 18 runs batted in, 17 runs scored and a team-high eight doubles.
Hull was named the 2008 America Southwest Conference West Division preseason Pitcher of the Year by the league's coaches. Last season, he was named to the ASC all-tournament team after pitching a complete-game shutout against McMurry in the tournament championship game. Hull went 7-2 with a 3.54 earned run average and two saves in 15 appearances last year. He struck out 35 and was third on the team with 61.0 innings pitched. The Victoria, Texas, native is TLU's number one starter. This year, Hull is 4-1 with a 3.00 earned run average. He leads the Bulldogs in wins (4), innings pitched (30.0), strikeouts (26) and opponents batting average (.219).
Harvey was a second-team all-conference selection in 2007. He became the Bulldogs starting center fielder midway through the season and has held the job since. As a sophomore, Harvey batted .370 with 27 runs scored and 20 stolen bases. He hit safely in 14 of TLU's final 16 games of the season and scored 18 runs over the Bulldogs last 15 games. The Houston, Texas native played just four games as a freshman after spending the fall of 2005 Texas Lutheran football team. This season, Harvey is batting .319 with two home runs and seven runs batted in. He leads the Bulldogs with 14 stolen bases on 18 attempts and he's tied for the team high with 18 runs scored.
Texas Lutheran's Jacob Kaase, Austin Yaeger and Sean O'Bannion all played for the Riverbats last season. Kaase is currently competing in the Texas Rangers farm system.
Nokelby was an all-conference and all-region selection last year as a true freshman. He set a Texas Lutheran record for at-bats in a single season (202) and started all of TLU's 48 games. Nokelby hit .363 with 73 hits, 13 doubles, 37 runs batted in and one home run. He stole 12 bases on 15 attempts and tallied a .437 on-base percentage. Nokelby put together a trio of three-hit games in the America Southwest Conference playoffs and followed up with six hits at the NCAA Division III regional playoffs. So far this season, the Santa Fe, Texas, native is hitting .388 with 26 hits, 18 runs batted in, 17 runs scored and a team-high eight doubles.
Hull was named the 2008 America Southwest Conference West Division preseason Pitcher of the Year by the league's coaches. Last season, he was named to the ASC all-tournament team after pitching a complete-game shutout against McMurry in the tournament championship game. Hull went 7-2 with a 3.54 earned run average and two saves in 15 appearances last year. He struck out 35 and was third on the team with 61.0 innings pitched. The Victoria, Texas, native is TLU's number one starter. This year, Hull is 4-1 with a 3.00 earned run average. He leads the Bulldogs in wins (4), innings pitched (30.0), strikeouts (26) and opponents batting average (.219).
Harvey was a second-team all-conference selection in 2007. He became the Bulldogs starting center fielder midway through the season and has held the job since. As a sophomore, Harvey batted .370 with 27 runs scored and 20 stolen bases. He hit safely in 14 of TLU's final 16 games of the season and scored 18 runs over the Bulldogs last 15 games. The Houston, Texas native played just four games as a freshman after spending the fall of 2005 Texas Lutheran football team. This season, Harvey is batting .319 with two home runs and seven runs batted in. He leads the Bulldogs with 14 stolen bases on 18 attempts and he's tied for the team high with 18 runs scored.
Texas Lutheran's Jacob Kaase, Austin Yaeger and Sean O'Bannion all played for the Riverbats last season. Kaase is currently competing in the Texas Rangers farm system.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Linton (LF '06) Named Big West Player of the Week
UC-Irvine junior Ollie Linton (Little Falls '06) has been named the Big West Player of the Week for the week ending March 9, 2008.
Last week, Linton recorded eight runs batted in, six stolen bases and a .400 (6-for-15) batting average in UC-Irvine's four games. He helped the Anteaters to three victories, including two on the road at #22 Tulane. Linton had at least one hit in each of UC-Irvine's games. He drove in a career-high four runs on Saturday as the Anteaters defeated Tulane, 7-3. Linton singled home two runs in the second inning, slammed a solo home run in the sixth and bunted home another run in the eighth. The former New York Collegiate Baseball League all-star had started the week with a two-RBI performance against #17 San Diego. In the series' finale against Tulane, Linton drove in two more runs and collected two hits.
Through Sunday, the Winnetka, Calif., native is batting a team-high .415 with one home run and 13 runs batted in. He also has swiped a team-high 13 bases on 14 attempts and has collected five multi-hit and four multi-RBI games.
Linton was selected to the 2008 NCBWA preseason All-America team and the 2008 Brooks Wallace Award "Watch List." He was a second team All-Big West pick last season and he helped UC-Irvine to the College World Series.
The UC-Irvine junior played in the NYCBL for the 2006 Little Falls Diamond Miners. He was tabbed second-team All-NYCBL. Linton led the Diamond Miners with a .336 batting average.
Last week, Linton recorded eight runs batted in, six stolen bases and a .400 (6-for-15) batting average in UC-Irvine's four games. He helped the Anteaters to three victories, including two on the road at #22 Tulane. Linton had at least one hit in each of UC-Irvine's games. He drove in a career-high four runs on Saturday as the Anteaters defeated Tulane, 7-3. Linton singled home two runs in the second inning, slammed a solo home run in the sixth and bunted home another run in the eighth. The former New York Collegiate Baseball League all-star had started the week with a two-RBI performance against #17 San Diego. In the series' finale against Tulane, Linton drove in two more runs and collected two hits.
Through Sunday, the Winnetka, Calif., native is batting a team-high .415 with one home run and 13 runs batted in. He also has swiped a team-high 13 bases on 14 attempts and has collected five multi-hit and four multi-RBI games.
Linton was selected to the 2008 NCBWA preseason All-America team and the 2008 Brooks Wallace Award "Watch List." He was a second team All-Big West pick last season and he helped UC-Irvine to the College World Series.
The UC-Irvine junior played in the NYCBL for the 2006 Little Falls Diamond Miners. He was tabbed second-team All-NYCBL. Linton led the Diamond Miners with a .336 batting average.
Serafin (AC '05) Tabbed America East Pitcher of Week
University of Vermont junior Joe Serafin (Allegany County '05) has been named the America East Pitcher of the Week for the week ending March 9, 2008.
Serafin pitched a six-hit shutout over seven innings as Vermont defeated Central Michigan, 14-1, on Sunday in Bradenton, Fla. Serafin walked two, struck out eight and allowed just two runners to second base.
This season, Serafin is 1-1 with a 1.50 earned run average and 13 strikeouts. He struck out five in Vermont's season opener against New Orleans.
The Tariffville, Conn., native missed most of the 2007 season due to injury. He was a 2006 America East first-team selection. He finished 5-3 with a 4.23 earned run average and a league-high 84 strikeouts. Serafin was a member of the America East all-rookie team as a freshman in 2005.
Serafin pitched for the 2005 Allegany County Nitros. He set a franchise single-season record with 65 strikeouts. Serafin went 5-1 with a 2.00 earned run average. He finished third on the team with 54 innings pitched and held opponents to a .166 batting average. The Vermont junior has spent the last two summers with the Torrington Twisters of the New England Collegiate Baseball League. He pitched in the 2007 NECBL All-Star Game.
Serafin pitched a six-hit shutout over seven innings as Vermont defeated Central Michigan, 14-1, on Sunday in Bradenton, Fla. Serafin walked two, struck out eight and allowed just two runners to second base.
This season, Serafin is 1-1 with a 1.50 earned run average and 13 strikeouts. He struck out five in Vermont's season opener against New Orleans.
The Tariffville, Conn., native missed most of the 2007 season due to injury. He was a 2006 America East first-team selection. He finished 5-3 with a 4.23 earned run average and a league-high 84 strikeouts. Serafin was a member of the America East all-rookie team as a freshman in 2005.
Serafin pitched for the 2005 Allegany County Nitros. He set a franchise single-season record with 65 strikeouts. Serafin went 5-1 with a 2.00 earned run average. He finished third on the team with 54 innings pitched and held opponents to a .166 batting average. The Vermont junior has spent the last two summers with the Torrington Twisters of the New England Collegiate Baseball League. He pitched in the 2007 NECBL All-Star Game.
NYCBL Alumni Spotlight: Joe Brown (Ithaca '92-'99)
Welcome back to the New York Collegiate Baseball League Alumni Spotlight. Every other week until the beginning of the 2008 NYCBL season on June 6th, one former NYCBL (or NCBL) player or coach will be featured. Last June, 27 former New York Collegiate Baseball League players were selected in the Major League Baseball entry draft. Countless other former players and coaches have gone on to success at the collegiate and professional levels.
Today, the spotlight shines on former Northeastern Collegiate Baseball League manager Joe Brown. Brown managed the now-defunct Ithaca Lakers of the NCBL from 1992 through the team's final season in 1999. Brown is one of the most successful managers in NCBL/NYCBL history. During his eight-year tenure, Brown managed the Lakers to three NCBL championships (1994, 1996, 1997), three runner-up finishes and two third-place finishes in the NCBL playoffs. That means that Brown's Lakers never once missed the NCBL playoffs.
1994 NCBL Championship Series: Ithaca d. Little Falls
1995 NCBL Championship Series: Hornell d. Ithaca
1996 NCBL Championship Series: Ithaca d. Little Falls
1997 NCBL Championship Series: Ithaca d. Little Falls
1999 NCBL Championship Series: Newark d. Ithaca
The two most well-known Lakers currently playing professional baseball are Philadelphia Phillies reliever Brad Lidge (Ithaca '96) and Cincinnati Reds reliever Scott Sauerbeck (Ithaca '92). Numerous other Lakers that went on to play professional baseball include but are not limited to Tom Tegeler (Ithaca '92-'93), Jason Wesseman (Ithaca '93-'95), Carmen Panaro (Ithaca '96), Tommy Miller (Ithaca '96), Anthony Salley (Ithaca '96), Brett Kaplan (Ithaca '96) and Bill Kerry (Ithaca '97).
Today, Brown is in his ninth year as the head baseball coach at Division III Cortland State. Entering the 2008 season, Brown is 289-83-1 and has led Cortland to four NCAA Division III World Series appearances, eight NCAA Division III tournament showings, and seven State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC) championships. Last season, Cortland went 42-7 and finished fourth at the World Series in Appleton, Wisc. He is a four-time American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) New York region Coach of the Year (2000, 2001, 2005, 2007) and three-time SUNYAC Coach of the Year (2004, 2005, 2007).
Brown guided the Red Dragons to back-to-back World Series appearances in his first two seasons at the helm (2000, 2001). His 2005 Red Dragons advanced to the Division III national championship game against Wisconsin-Whitewater.
The former Lakers skipper was an assistant coach at Cortland from 1993 through 1999. He worked under current LeMoyne head coach Steve Owens (Utica-Rome '86). The Red Dragons made seven straight trips to the NCAA Division III tournament and four World Series appearances. Prior to Cortland, Brown worked at Miami (Ohio) for one season as a graduate assistant.
As a player, Brown was a member of Ithaca College's 1988 national championship team. He played under legendary IC skipper George Valesente.
Over the years, many of Brown's Red Dragons have competed in the NYCBL and gone on to play professionally including Craig Kerner (Rome '98), Cory Haggerty (Rome '01), Andy Mead (Mohawk Valley '03), Jim Dougher (Mohawk Valley '04/Glens Falls '05), Dan Maycock (Mohawk Valley '05) and Will Groff (Glens Falls '04-'05). More recently, Cortland players in the NYCBL have included Anderson Gardner (Brockport '07) , Matt Tone (Brockport '07), Justin Mattes (Glens Falls '05), Mike Zaccardo (Genesee Valley '04) and JJ Potrikus (Hornell '07).
Today, the spotlight shines on former Northeastern Collegiate Baseball League manager Joe Brown. Brown managed the now-defunct Ithaca Lakers of the NCBL from 1992 through the team's final season in 1999. Brown is one of the most successful managers in NCBL/NYCBL history. During his eight-year tenure, Brown managed the Lakers to three NCBL championships (1994, 1996, 1997), three runner-up finishes and two third-place finishes in the NCBL playoffs. That means that Brown's Lakers never once missed the NCBL playoffs.
1994 NCBL Championship Series: Ithaca d. Little Falls
1995 NCBL Championship Series: Hornell d. Ithaca
1996 NCBL Championship Series: Ithaca d. Little Falls
1997 NCBL Championship Series: Ithaca d. Little Falls
1999 NCBL Championship Series: Newark d. Ithaca
The two most well-known Lakers currently playing professional baseball are Philadelphia Phillies reliever Brad Lidge (Ithaca '96) and Cincinnati Reds reliever Scott Sauerbeck (Ithaca '92). Numerous other Lakers that went on to play professional baseball include but are not limited to Tom Tegeler (Ithaca '92-'93), Jason Wesseman (Ithaca '93-'95), Carmen Panaro (Ithaca '96), Tommy Miller (Ithaca '96), Anthony Salley (Ithaca '96), Brett Kaplan (Ithaca '96) and Bill Kerry (Ithaca '97).
Today, Brown is in his ninth year as the head baseball coach at Division III Cortland State. Entering the 2008 season, Brown is 289-83-1 and has led Cortland to four NCAA Division III World Series appearances, eight NCAA Division III tournament showings, and seven State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC) championships. Last season, Cortland went 42-7 and finished fourth at the World Series in Appleton, Wisc. He is a four-time American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) New York region Coach of the Year (2000, 2001, 2005, 2007) and three-time SUNYAC Coach of the Year (2004, 2005, 2007).
Brown guided the Red Dragons to back-to-back World Series appearances in his first two seasons at the helm (2000, 2001). His 2005 Red Dragons advanced to the Division III national championship game against Wisconsin-Whitewater.
The former Lakers skipper was an assistant coach at Cortland from 1993 through 1999. He worked under current LeMoyne head coach Steve Owens (Utica-Rome '86). The Red Dragons made seven straight trips to the NCAA Division III tournament and four World Series appearances. Prior to Cortland, Brown worked at Miami (Ohio) for one season as a graduate assistant.
As a player, Brown was a member of Ithaca College's 1988 national championship team. He played under legendary IC skipper George Valesente.
Over the years, many of Brown's Red Dragons have competed in the NYCBL and gone on to play professionally including Craig Kerner (Rome '98), Cory Haggerty (Rome '01), Andy Mead (Mohawk Valley '03), Jim Dougher (Mohawk Valley '04/Glens Falls '05), Dan Maycock (Mohawk Valley '05) and Will Groff (Glens Falls '04-'05). More recently, Cortland players in the NYCBL have included Anderson Gardner (Brockport '07) , Matt Tone (Brockport '07), Justin Mattes (Glens Falls '05), Mike Zaccardo (Genesee Valley '04) and JJ Potrikus (Hornell '07).
Mercurio (GF '07) Named On Chatham Roster
University of Maine sophomore Joe Mercurio (Glens Falls '07) is listed on the preliminary roster of the Cape Cod League's Chatham Athletics for the 2008 season.
Mercurio transferred to Maine for the 2008 season after spending one year at the University of Illinois. He batted .444 with three RBI in 11 games for the Illini as a true freshman.
Prior to Illinois, Mercurio was a Louisville Slugger All-American at John F. Kennedy Catholic High School in Somers, N.Y. As a senior, Mercurio hit .467 with 23 RBI and a .727 on-base percentage. He threw out 12 runners on 14 stolen base attempts. In addition to All-America accolades, Mercurio was first-team all-league, all-section, first-team All-Journal News and second-team all-state in 2006. He took home all-league honors as a sophomore and junior as well.
Last summer, the Brewster, N.Y., native backstopped the Glens Falls Golden Eagles to the New York Collegiate Baseball League's Eastern Division championship and a 34-6 regular season record. Mercurio played in 30 of Glens Falls' 40 regular season games and started 28. He drove in 17 runs, scored 14 and collected 22 hits. As the Golden Eagles starting catcher, Mercurio recorded 14 assists and committed just two errors. He caught 13-straight games for Glens Falls from June 20 through July 5; including two doubleheaders.
Mercurio is the third former New York Collegiate Baseball League player to be listed on a Cape League roster for the 2008 season. Virginia's Andrew Carraway (Saratoga '06) and Vanderbilt's Mark Lamm (Saratoga '07) are also named on 2008 Cape League rosters.
Mercurio transferred to Maine for the 2008 season after spending one year at the University of Illinois. He batted .444 with three RBI in 11 games for the Illini as a true freshman.
Prior to Illinois, Mercurio was a Louisville Slugger All-American at John F. Kennedy Catholic High School in Somers, N.Y. As a senior, Mercurio hit .467 with 23 RBI and a .727 on-base percentage. He threw out 12 runners on 14 stolen base attempts. In addition to All-America accolades, Mercurio was first-team all-league, all-section, first-team All-Journal News and second-team all-state in 2006. He took home all-league honors as a sophomore and junior as well.
Last summer, the Brewster, N.Y., native backstopped the Glens Falls Golden Eagles to the New York Collegiate Baseball League's Eastern Division championship and a 34-6 regular season record. Mercurio played in 30 of Glens Falls' 40 regular season games and started 28. He drove in 17 runs, scored 14 and collected 22 hits. As the Golden Eagles starting catcher, Mercurio recorded 14 assists and committed just two errors. He caught 13-straight games for Glens Falls from June 20 through July 5; including two doubleheaders.
Mercurio is the third former New York Collegiate Baseball League player to be listed on a Cape League roster for the 2008 season. Virginia's Andrew Carraway (Saratoga '06) and Vanderbilt's Mark Lamm (Saratoga '07) are also named on 2008 Cape League rosters.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
NYCBL 2008: Gorlok Sightings In Allegany County
For the second year in a row, a pair of Webster Gorloks will descend on Scio Athletic Field. The Allegany County Nitros of the New York Collegiate Baseball League have signed Webster University juniors Alex Raetzloff and Kyle Starnes for the 2008 season.
Raetzloff, as a sophomore, was the 2007 St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Player of the Year and a first-team all-region selection. Raetzloff batted .399 with four home runs and 38 runs batted in. He led the Gorloks with 61 hits, 56 runs scored, 24 walks and 30 stolen bases on 32 attempts. Through Webster's first three games of 2008, Raetzloff has two RBI and two stolen bases.
Starnes, a team captain, was a second-team All-SLIAC choice last season. Starnes hit .357 with four home runs and 30 runs batted in. He played 40 games and collected 46 hits, 31 runs, six doubles, 10 walks and 12 stolen bases. Starnes, from Sugarland, Texas, transferred to Webster from Division-I Baylor University. He recorded a double in Webster's 8-6 loss to #13 College of New Jersey on Sunday.
Webster seniors Gregory Steen and James Powell both played for the Allegany County Nitros last season. Webster assistant coach Michael Stawski has played and coached for the Allegany County Nitros. He was a New York Collegiate Baseball League all-star with the Nitros in 2005. He tied a franchise single-season record with six victories and he broke a franchise record with 46.1 scoreless innings pitched. The following season, Stawski returned to Scio Athletic Field as an assistant coach and helped mentor the Nitros to a Western Division championship.
Raetzloff, as a sophomore, was the 2007 St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Player of the Year and a first-team all-region selection. Raetzloff batted .399 with four home runs and 38 runs batted in. He led the Gorloks with 61 hits, 56 runs scored, 24 walks and 30 stolen bases on 32 attempts. Through Webster's first three games of 2008, Raetzloff has two RBI and two stolen bases.
Starnes, a team captain, was a second-team All-SLIAC choice last season. Starnes hit .357 with four home runs and 30 runs batted in. He played 40 games and collected 46 hits, 31 runs, six doubles, 10 walks and 12 stolen bases. Starnes, from Sugarland, Texas, transferred to Webster from Division-I Baylor University. He recorded a double in Webster's 8-6 loss to #13 College of New Jersey on Sunday.
Webster seniors Gregory Steen and James Powell both played for the Allegany County Nitros last season. Webster assistant coach Michael Stawski has played and coached for the Allegany County Nitros. He was a New York Collegiate Baseball League all-star with the Nitros in 2005. He tied a franchise single-season record with six victories and he broke a franchise record with 46.1 scoreless innings pitched. The following season, Stawski returned to Scio Athletic Field as an assistant coach and helped mentor the Nitros to a Western Division championship.
NYCBL 2008: Feeling Minnesota
Three members of the Southwest Minnesota State Mustangs and two Minnesota State Mavericks have signed contracts to play in the New York Collegiate Baseball League this summer.
Southwest Minnesota State sophomores Adam Schrader and Andrew Kinney and freshman Aaron Johnson will all take the field for the Hornell Dodgers.
Schrader was a second-team All-Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference pick last season as a redshirt freshman; he was one of two Mustangs to receive the honor. Schrader, from Easton, Minn., went 6-2 on the mound with a 3.02 earned run average in eight appearances. He added three complete games, two shutouts and struck out 33. Schrader held opponents scoreless through his first 25 innings of the season. This year, the Mustangs sophomore started the team's season opener against Pittsburg State and struck out seven in five innings.
Kinney (no relation to former Dodger Josh Kinney) is a dual threat for the Mustangs and can either play the field or pitch. As a freshman, Kinney batted .284 with a team-high nine home runs and .691 slugging percentage. He also tied for the team lead with 31 runs batted in. Kinney finished 3-0 on the mound with a 3.06 earned run average. He made three starts and appeared once from the Mustangs bullpen. The Coon Rapids, Minn., native is off to a hot start in 2008. Through the Mustangs first four games, Kinney is batting .389 with a team-high three home runs and nine RBI. This past Sunday, the sophomore slammed two home runs against Pittsburg State and then he finished the game on the mound and earned his first save of the season.
Johnson is a 6-foot-6 left-handed pitcher from Red Wing, Minn. He was a two-time all-conference and all-area selection at Red Wing High School and he was named the Republican-Eagle's Player of the Year as a senior. Between high school and legion teams in 2007, Johnson went 9-4 with 150 strikeouts in 105 innings pitched. He earned two high school letters in basketball and in the classroom he received two Missota Conference academic excellence awards. Johnson started in his collegiate mound debut on March 2 against Pittsburg State and pitched five innings.
Minnesota State junior Jay Bresnahan and sophomore Josh Simon will play at Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds for the Watertown Wizards, trading the purple and yellow of the Mavericks for the purple and yellow of the Wizards.
Bresnahan was named to the North Central Conference all-star team last season and he was a Daktronics Central region first-team selection. Bresnahan was the North Central Conference batting champion with a .447 batting average in league games. He hit a team-high .444 for the Mavericks with two home runs, 39 runs batted in and 64 hits. Bresnahan helped the Mavericks to a conference championship and an appearance in the NCAA Division II regionals. This season, the Edina, Minn., native is batting a team-high .417 with three RBI in seven games. He also leads the Mavericks in hits (10) and defensive assists (13).
Simon earned honorable mention All-North Central Conference as a redshirt freshman. He was one of 10 Mavericks to be named to the all-conference squad. Simon made his MSU debut last year after redshirting in 2006. As a senior at New Prague High School, he was tabbed Pioneer Press first-team all-state and Star Tribune first-team all-metro. Through seven games in 2008, the New Prague, Minn., native is batting .389 with three RBI. He leads the Mavericks with a .542 on-base percentage and he is second in batting average to Jay Bresnahan.
Southwest Minnesota State sophomores Adam Schrader and Andrew Kinney and freshman Aaron Johnson will all take the field for the Hornell Dodgers.
Schrader was a second-team All-Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference pick last season as a redshirt freshman; he was one of two Mustangs to receive the honor. Schrader, from Easton, Minn., went 6-2 on the mound with a 3.02 earned run average in eight appearances. He added three complete games, two shutouts and struck out 33. Schrader held opponents scoreless through his first 25 innings of the season. This year, the Mustangs sophomore started the team's season opener against Pittsburg State and struck out seven in five innings.
Kinney (no relation to former Dodger Josh Kinney) is a dual threat for the Mustangs and can either play the field or pitch. As a freshman, Kinney batted .284 with a team-high nine home runs and .691 slugging percentage. He also tied for the team lead with 31 runs batted in. Kinney finished 3-0 on the mound with a 3.06 earned run average. He made three starts and appeared once from the Mustangs bullpen. The Coon Rapids, Minn., native is off to a hot start in 2008. Through the Mustangs first four games, Kinney is batting .389 with a team-high three home runs and nine RBI. This past Sunday, the sophomore slammed two home runs against Pittsburg State and then he finished the game on the mound and earned his first save of the season.
Johnson is a 6-foot-6 left-handed pitcher from Red Wing, Minn. He was a two-time all-conference and all-area selection at Red Wing High School and he was named the Republican-Eagle's Player of the Year as a senior. Between high school and legion teams in 2007, Johnson went 9-4 with 150 strikeouts in 105 innings pitched. He earned two high school letters in basketball and in the classroom he received two Missota Conference academic excellence awards. Johnson started in his collegiate mound debut on March 2 against Pittsburg State and pitched five innings.
Minnesota State junior Jay Bresnahan and sophomore Josh Simon will play at Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds for the Watertown Wizards, trading the purple and yellow of the Mavericks for the purple and yellow of the Wizards.
Bresnahan was named to the North Central Conference all-star team last season and he was a Daktronics Central region first-team selection. Bresnahan was the North Central Conference batting champion with a .447 batting average in league games. He hit a team-high .444 for the Mavericks with two home runs, 39 runs batted in and 64 hits. Bresnahan helped the Mavericks to a conference championship and an appearance in the NCAA Division II regionals. This season, the Edina, Minn., native is batting a team-high .417 with three RBI in seven games. He also leads the Mavericks in hits (10) and defensive assists (13).
Simon earned honorable mention All-North Central Conference as a redshirt freshman. He was one of 10 Mavericks to be named to the all-conference squad. Simon made his MSU debut last year after redshirting in 2006. As a senior at New Prague High School, he was tabbed Pioneer Press first-team all-state and Star Tribune first-team all-metro. Through seven games in 2008, the New Prague, Minn., native is batting .389 with three RBI. He leads the Mavericks with a .542 on-base percentage and he is second in batting average to Jay Bresnahan.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
NYCBL 2008: Phillies To Suit Up Two-Time National Champion
University of Utah junior pitcher Brian Budrow will take the mound for the Saratoga Phillies this summer in the New York Collegiate Baseball League.
Budrow was a member of back-to-back national championship teams at Oregon State before transferring to Utah for the 2008 season. Budrow made eight appearances, including two starts, for the Beavers over two seasons in Corvallis, Ore.
The Glendale, Ariz., native has emerged as Utah's number one starter in the first three weeks of the season. Budrow is 1-1 with a 1.12 earned run average in three starts. He leads the Utes in innings pitched (16.0), strikeouts (20) and opponents batting average (2.62).
Friday, Budrow pitched a five-hit shutout over eight and a third innings as Utah blanked Southern Utah, 6-0. Budrow earned his first collegiate victory and struck out a season-high 10 batters. He retired 12-straight batters from the fifth inning through the eighth inning.
The Utah hurler was a four-time all-state and all-region selection at Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale, Ariz. Twice, Budrow was named the regional Player of the Year and he was selected as the 2005 coaches association Player of the Year. He graduated from Mountain Ridge as the state's all-time wins leader (34). In addition, he recorded 262 career strikeouts and drove in 139 runs.
Budrow was a member of back-to-back national championship teams at Oregon State before transferring to Utah for the 2008 season. Budrow made eight appearances, including two starts, for the Beavers over two seasons in Corvallis, Ore.
The Glendale, Ariz., native has emerged as Utah's number one starter in the first three weeks of the season. Budrow is 1-1 with a 1.12 earned run average in three starts. He leads the Utes in innings pitched (16.0), strikeouts (20) and opponents batting average (2.62).
Friday, Budrow pitched a five-hit shutout over eight and a third innings as Utah blanked Southern Utah, 6-0. Budrow earned his first collegiate victory and struck out a season-high 10 batters. He retired 12-straight batters from the fifth inning through the eighth inning.
The Utah hurler was a four-time all-state and all-region selection at Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale, Ariz. Twice, Budrow was named the regional Player of the Year and he was selected as the 2005 coaches association Player of the Year. He graduated from Mountain Ridge as the state's all-time wins leader (34). In addition, he recorded 262 career strikeouts and drove in 139 runs.
Degidio (MV '05) Named To Clemens Award Watch List
University of Rhode Island senior Jamie Degidio (Mohawk Valley '05) has been named to the "Watch List" for the 2008 Roger Clemens Award. This is Degidio's second-straight selection to the Clemens Award "Watch List."
Degidio pitched out of the Rhode Island bullpen last season and led the Rams in earned run average (3.50) and appearances (22). He finished second on the team with three saves and he led all URI relievers with 46.1 innings pitched. Degidio struck out 50 batters, walked 19 and held opponents to a .273 batting average. As a sophomore, the Rams reliever posted a career-high seven victories, a 1.86 earned run average and 62 strikeouts. He was second on the team in wins, third in innings pitched (63.0), third in strikeouts and he tied for second in saves (2).
The Narraganset, R.I., native played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2005 Mohawk Valley Cobras. He led the Cobras in victories (4), earned run average (1.69) and opponents batting average (1.61). Degidio made 13 appearances and struck out 34 batters in 26.2 innings pitched. Degidio spent last summer with the Newport Gulls of the New England Collegiate Baseball League.
The Roger Clemens Award is given annually to the top pitcher in Division I baseball by the Greater Houston Baseball Authority. Seventy-eight pitchers are named on the 2008 "Watch List." Previous winners of the Clemens Award include David Price, Andrew Miller, Luke Hochevar and Jered Weaver.
Degidio pitched out of the Rhode Island bullpen last season and led the Rams in earned run average (3.50) and appearances (22). He finished second on the team with three saves and he led all URI relievers with 46.1 innings pitched. Degidio struck out 50 batters, walked 19 and held opponents to a .273 batting average. As a sophomore, the Rams reliever posted a career-high seven victories, a 1.86 earned run average and 62 strikeouts. He was second on the team in wins, third in innings pitched (63.0), third in strikeouts and he tied for second in saves (2).
The Narraganset, R.I., native played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2005 Mohawk Valley Cobras. He led the Cobras in victories (4), earned run average (1.69) and opponents batting average (1.61). Degidio made 13 appearances and struck out 34 batters in 26.2 innings pitched. Degidio spent last summer with the Newport Gulls of the New England Collegiate Baseball League.
The Roger Clemens Award is given annually to the top pitcher in Division I baseball by the Greater Houston Baseball Authority. Seventy-eight pitchers are named on the 2008 "Watch List." Previous winners of the Clemens Award include David Price, Andrew Miller, Luke Hochevar and Jered Weaver.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Riverhawks Ink Mazurek (Mohawk Valley '05)
Matt Mazurek (Mohawk Valley '05) has signed a free-agent contract with the Rockford Riverhawks of the independent Frontier League for the 2008 season. He is one of three former New York Collegiate Baseball League players on the Riverhawks roster.
Mazurek finished the 2007 season with the Joliet Jackhammers of the independent Northern League. He batted .333 with six RBI in 22 games for the Jackhammers. Mazurek collected 13 hits, seven runs, four doubles, three stolen bases and a .436 slugging percentage. The former Canisius star began the season with the now-defunct New York State League in Utica, N.Y. For his performance in the Northern League, Mazurek was selected as a New York State League all-star.
The Silver Creek, N.Y., native enjoyed a successful collegiate career at Canisius College. He was a two-time selection to the All-Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference first team. As a senior in 2006, Mazurek set a school single-season record with 68 hits. He led the Golden Griffs in batting average (.358), on-base percentage (.483) and steals (15).
Mazurek played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2005 Mohawk Valley Cobras.
Mazurek finished the 2007 season with the Joliet Jackhammers of the independent Northern League. He batted .333 with six RBI in 22 games for the Jackhammers. Mazurek collected 13 hits, seven runs, four doubles, three stolen bases and a .436 slugging percentage. The former Canisius star began the season with the now-defunct New York State League in Utica, N.Y. For his performance in the Northern League, Mazurek was selected as a New York State League all-star.
The Silver Creek, N.Y., native enjoyed a successful collegiate career at Canisius College. He was a two-time selection to the All-Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference first team. As a senior in 2006, Mazurek set a school single-season record with 68 hits. He led the Golden Griffs in batting average (.358), on-base percentage (.483) and steals (15).
Mazurek played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2005 Mohawk Valley Cobras.
Alberts (Geneva '06) Named MAAC Player of the Week
Niagara University senior Tim Alberts (Geneva '06) has been selected as the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Player of the Week for the week ending March 4, 2008. He is the second straight NYCBL alumnus to earn MAAC Player of the Week honors.
Alberts batted .722 (13-for-18) with eight runs batted in and 14 runs scored in Niagara's first five games of the season. He added four doubles, two home runs, eight walks and four stolen bases as the Purple Eagles won four games. Alberts' best game came on Sunday against Davidson. He went 5-for-5 with a home run, four RBI, three runs scored and two doubles. Alberts keyed a six-run rally by Niagara in the sixth inning with a three-run double. In a Monday doubleheader with Coppin State, Alberts totaled five hits, seven runs scored and three runs batted in as well as two doubles and one home run.
For the season, Alberts leads the Purple Eagles in batting average (.722), hits (13), runs (14), walks (8), stolen bases (4), total bases (23), slugging percentage (1.278) and on-base percentage (821). He is tied for the team lead in doubles (4) and is third in RBI (8).
The Baldwinsville, N.Y., native is listed on the 2008 Brooks Wallace Award "Watch List" and he was named to the MAAC preseason all-conference team by the league's coaches.
Alberts played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2006 Geneva Red Wings. He tallied 37 hits in 39 games for the Red Wings and finished second on the team in batting average (.259) and runs batted in (22).
Alberts batted .722 (13-for-18) with eight runs batted in and 14 runs scored in Niagara's first five games of the season. He added four doubles, two home runs, eight walks and four stolen bases as the Purple Eagles won four games. Alberts' best game came on Sunday against Davidson. He went 5-for-5 with a home run, four RBI, three runs scored and two doubles. Alberts keyed a six-run rally by Niagara in the sixth inning with a three-run double. In a Monday doubleheader with Coppin State, Alberts totaled five hits, seven runs scored and three runs batted in as well as two doubles and one home run.
For the season, Alberts leads the Purple Eagles in batting average (.722), hits (13), runs (14), walks (8), stolen bases (4), total bases (23), slugging percentage (1.278) and on-base percentage (821). He is tied for the team lead in doubles (4) and is third in RBI (8).
The Baldwinsville, N.Y., native is listed on the 2008 Brooks Wallace Award "Watch List" and he was named to the MAAC preseason all-conference team by the league's coaches.
Alberts played in the New York Collegiate Baseball League for the 2006 Geneva Red Wings. He tallied 37 hits in 39 games for the Red Wings and finished second on the team in batting average (.259) and runs batted in (22).
Oester (AC '06) Takes Home MAC Honorable Mention
University of Toledo junior Jake Oester (Allegany County '06) has been named to the Mid-America Conference's weekly honor roll for the week ending March 4, 2008.
Oester recorded at least one hit and one run in each of Toledo's four games last week. He batted .353 (6-for-17) with two home runs, six runs batted in and five runs scored. Oester's best performance came in Toledo's 7-6 loss to Middle Tennessee State on March 1. He went 3-for-4 with two home runs and four RBI. Oester singled home a run in the first, clouted a two-run home run in the third and smashed a solo home run to start the sixth.
For the season, Oester is batting .414 with two home runs and 11 RBI. He leads the Rockets in hits (12), doubles (4), on-base percentage (.528) and slugging percentage (.759). Oester's .414 batting average is the highest among Toledo's regular starters.
The Cincinnati, Ohio, native played for the 2006 Allegany County Nitros and helped lead the team to a Western Division championship in the New York Collegiate Baseball League. Oester hit .209 in 45 games for Allegany County. He recorded 24 hits and drove in 13 runs.
Last summer, Oester was the Great Lakes Collegiate Summer League Player of the Year. He batted .376 for the Cincinnati Steam and scored 24 runs in 32 games.
The Toledo junior is the son of former Major Leaguer Ron Oester. The elder Oester spent 13 seasons with the Cincinnati Reds.
Oester recorded at least one hit and one run in each of Toledo's four games last week. He batted .353 (6-for-17) with two home runs, six runs batted in and five runs scored. Oester's best performance came in Toledo's 7-6 loss to Middle Tennessee State on March 1. He went 3-for-4 with two home runs and four RBI. Oester singled home a run in the first, clouted a two-run home run in the third and smashed a solo home run to start the sixth.
For the season, Oester is batting .414 with two home runs and 11 RBI. He leads the Rockets in hits (12), doubles (4), on-base percentage (.528) and slugging percentage (.759). Oester's .414 batting average is the highest among Toledo's regular starters.
The Cincinnati, Ohio, native played for the 2006 Allegany County Nitros and helped lead the team to a Western Division championship in the New York Collegiate Baseball League. Oester hit .209 in 45 games for Allegany County. He recorded 24 hits and drove in 13 runs.
Last summer, Oester was the Great Lakes Collegiate Summer League Player of the Year. He batted .376 for the Cincinnati Steam and scored 24 runs in 32 games.
The Toledo junior is the son of former Major Leaguer Ron Oester. The elder Oester spent 13 seasons with the Cincinnati Reds.
Vorhees (AC '06) Named ASC West Division Hitter of the Week
McMurry College senior Brent Vorhees (Allegany County '06) has been named the America Southwest Conference West Division Hitter of the Week for the week ending March 4, 2008.
Vorhees became the America Southwest Conference's all-time home run and RBI leader over the weekend in McMurry's three-game series with East Texas Baptist University. In the series' three games, Vorhees hit .428 with three home runs and 10 RBI. He tied the conference career home run record (38) with a two-run clout in the first inning of the series' second game. Vorhees slammed his record-breaking 39th home run, a two-run blast, in the fifth inning of the same game. He later added a two-run double in McMurry's 12-6 win. Vorhees' six RBI tied the conference record for career runs batted in (167). In the series' final game, Vorhees slammed his 40th career home run and drove in three runs to break the ASC's career RBI record.
The Abilene, Texas, native is a 2008 D3baseball.com preseason All-American and he was selected as the America Southwest Conference West Division preseason Player of the Year. Last year, Vorhees was a D3baseball.com first-team All-America selection. He hit .370 and finished second in NCAA Division III with 14 home runs. Vorhees led McMurry to the ASC tournament championship game. He is a three-time all-conference selection.
Vorhees played for the 2006 Allegany County Nitros. The Nitros won the Western Division championship and appeared in the New York Collegiate Baseball League Championship Series against the Saratoga Phillies. Vorhees batted .287 for the Nitros with one home run and 22 runs batted in. He collected a co-team high 11 doubles, recorded 43 hits and scored 19 runs.
Vorhees became the America Southwest Conference's all-time home run and RBI leader over the weekend in McMurry's three-game series with East Texas Baptist University. In the series' three games, Vorhees hit .428 with three home runs and 10 RBI. He tied the conference career home run record (38) with a two-run clout in the first inning of the series' second game. Vorhees slammed his record-breaking 39th home run, a two-run blast, in the fifth inning of the same game. He later added a two-run double in McMurry's 12-6 win. Vorhees' six RBI tied the conference record for career runs batted in (167). In the series' final game, Vorhees slammed his 40th career home run and drove in three runs to break the ASC's career RBI record.
The Abilene, Texas, native is a 2008 D3baseball.com preseason All-American and he was selected as the America Southwest Conference West Division preseason Player of the Year. Last year, Vorhees was a D3baseball.com first-team All-America selection. He hit .370 and finished second in NCAA Division III with 14 home runs. Vorhees led McMurry to the ASC tournament championship game. He is a three-time all-conference selection.
Vorhees played for the 2006 Allegany County Nitros. The Nitros won the Western Division championship and appeared in the New York Collegiate Baseball League Championship Series against the Saratoga Phillies. Vorhees batted .287 for the Nitros with one home run and 22 runs batted in. He collected a co-team high 11 doubles, recorded 43 hits and scored 19 runs.
Lukas (Glens Falls '08) Selected America East Rookie of the Week
University of Maine freshman Jarrett Lukas (Glens Falls '08) has been named the America East's Freshman of the Week for the week ending March 3, 2008.
For the week, Lukas hit .333 (3-for-9) with three runs scored and six runs batted in. The Maine first year helped the Black Bears to a doubleheader sweep of Delaware State on February 25. Lukas belted a three-run home run in the day's opening game, his first collegiate home run. Lukas went 2-for-4 in the night cap with a double and three runs batted in. He smashed a two-run double in the sixth inning to put the Black Bears in the lead for good.
The Old Town, Maine, native has played in four of Maine's first seven games this season and started two. He is second among the Black Bears' reserves in hits (3) and batting average (.333).
Lukas enjoyed a successful high school career at Old Town High School before heading to Bangor. As a senior, he was named the 2007 Gatorade Player of the Year in Maine and Mr. Baseball Maine. In addition, he was the 2007 Portland Press-Herald Player of the Year.
He will play for the Glens Falls Golden Eagles this summer.
For the week, Lukas hit .333 (3-for-9) with three runs scored and six runs batted in. The Maine first year helped the Black Bears to a doubleheader sweep of Delaware State on February 25. Lukas belted a three-run home run in the day's opening game, his first collegiate home run. Lukas went 2-for-4 in the night cap with a double and three runs batted in. He smashed a two-run double in the sixth inning to put the Black Bears in the lead for good.
The Old Town, Maine, native has played in four of Maine's first seven games this season and started two. He is second among the Black Bears' reserves in hits (3) and batting average (.333).
Lukas enjoyed a successful high school career at Old Town High School before heading to Bangor. As a senior, he was named the 2007 Gatorade Player of the Year in Maine and Mr. Baseball Maine. In addition, he was the 2007 Portland Press-Herald Player of the Year.
He will play for the Glens Falls Golden Eagles this summer.
Moley (Brockport '07) Tabbed Atlantic 10 Player of the Week
St. Bonaventure University senior Randy Moley (Brockport '07) has been chosen as the Atlantic 10 Player of the Week for the week ending March 3, 2008.
Moley hit .667 (18-for-27) in St. Bonaventure's six games last week. Moley has recorded hits in each of St. Bonaventure's first nine games and he has a 13-game hitting streak dating back to last season.
Eleven of Moley's 18 hits came over the course of back-to-back games against Mount St. Mary's and Boston College. Against Mount St. Mary's, Moley went 5-for-6 with two doubles, three runs scored and one run batted in. His five hits were a career high. The following day, Moley broke his own personal best with a 6-for-7 performance and he drove in three runs as St. Bonaventure defeated Boston College, 15-14, in 11 innings. All six of Moley's hits were singles.
After nine games, Moley leads the Bonnies with a .600 (24-for-40) batting average. He has a team-high 24 hits and he is second on the team in runs scored (10) and runs batted in (12). Moley also has put together a Bonnies-best .644 on-base percentage and he is two-for-two in stolen base attempts.
Last season, Moley was named the Atlantic 10's Student Athlete of the Year.
The Buffalo, N.Y., native played for the Brockport Riverbats of the New York Collegiate Baseball League last summer. Moley batted .274 with 13 runs batted in and 15 runs scored. He helped the Riverbats finish in a tie with the Hornell Dodgers for fourth place in the NYCBL's Western Division.
Moley hit .667 (18-for-27) in St. Bonaventure's six games last week. Moley has recorded hits in each of St. Bonaventure's first nine games and he has a 13-game hitting streak dating back to last season.
Eleven of Moley's 18 hits came over the course of back-to-back games against Mount St. Mary's and Boston College. Against Mount St. Mary's, Moley went 5-for-6 with two doubles, three runs scored and one run batted in. His five hits were a career high. The following day, Moley broke his own personal best with a 6-for-7 performance and he drove in three runs as St. Bonaventure defeated Boston College, 15-14, in 11 innings. All six of Moley's hits were singles.
After nine games, Moley leads the Bonnies with a .600 (24-for-40) batting average. He has a team-high 24 hits and he is second on the team in runs scored (10) and runs batted in (12). Moley also has put together a Bonnies-best .644 on-base percentage and he is two-for-two in stolen base attempts.
Last season, Moley was named the Atlantic 10's Student Athlete of the Year.
The Buffalo, N.Y., native played for the Brockport Riverbats of the New York Collegiate Baseball League last summer. Moley batted .274 with 13 runs batted in and 15 runs scored. He helped the Riverbats finish in a tie with the Hornell Dodgers for fourth place in the NYCBL's Western Division.
Conley (Watertown '05) Nabs BIG EAST Player of the Week Honors
University of Pittsburgh senior Sean Conley (Watertown '05) has been chosen as the BIG EAST's Player of the Week for the week ending March 3, 2008. He is the second straight NYCBL alumnus to win the award. St. John's' Joe Witkowski (Little Falls '07) was the BIG EAST Player of the Week last week.
Conley hit .500 (6-for-12) with 10 RBI during Pittsburgh's three-game road trip to Maryland this past weekend. He went 2-for-3 with two doubles, three walks and three RBI as Pitt opened the weekend with a 25-3 victory over the Maryland Eastern Shore. Conley also reached base on a hit-by-pitch and recorded a sacrifice fly. The following day, Conley belted a game-tying, three-run home run against Rhode Island in the seventh inning, but Pittsburgh fell to URI, 6-4.
The Chippewa, Pa., native went 3-for-5 with a team-high four RBI as the Panthers closed out the weekend with a 10-0 victory over Maryland Eastern Shore.
Currently, Conley leads the Panthers in hits (10), home runs (2), runs batted in (12), and slugging percentage (.760). He is tied for the team lead in doubles (3) and he is second in batting average (.400) to former NYCBL all-star Jordan Herr (Rochester '06). Conley was selected to the 2008 BIG EAST preseason all-conference team by the league's coaches.
Conley played for the 2005 Watertown Wizards. He batted .248 with 11 runs batted in, 25 hits and eight runs scored in 28 games.
Conley hit .500 (6-for-12) with 10 RBI during Pittsburgh's three-game road trip to Maryland this past weekend. He went 2-for-3 with two doubles, three walks and three RBI as Pitt opened the weekend with a 25-3 victory over the Maryland Eastern Shore. Conley also reached base on a hit-by-pitch and recorded a sacrifice fly. The following day, Conley belted a game-tying, three-run home run against Rhode Island in the seventh inning, but Pittsburgh fell to URI, 6-4.
The Chippewa, Pa., native went 3-for-5 with a team-high four RBI as the Panthers closed out the weekend with a 10-0 victory over Maryland Eastern Shore.
Currently, Conley leads the Panthers in hits (10), home runs (2), runs batted in (12), and slugging percentage (.760). He is tied for the team lead in doubles (3) and he is second in batting average (.400) to former NYCBL all-star Jordan Herr (Rochester '06). Conley was selected to the 2008 BIG EAST preseason all-conference team by the league's coaches.
Conley played for the 2005 Watertown Wizards. He batted .248 with 11 runs batted in, 25 hits and eight runs scored in 28 games.
Kelly (Glens Falls '07) Named To Johnny Bench "Watch List"
Southern Illinois University junior catcher Mark Kelly (Glens Falls '07) has been named to the "Watch List" for the 2008 Coleman Company Johnny Bench Award. The award is presented by the Greater Wichita Area Sports Commission to the top Division I catcher.
Last spring, Kelly was a first-team all-conference and first-team all-region selection for the Salukis. Kelly led the team in batting average (.379), hits (88), runs batted in (63), total bases (107) and slugging percentage (.461). He racked up a team-high 26 multi-hit and 17 multi-RBI games, amassed a 21-game hitting streak from Feb. 17 through Mar. 25 and was the only Saluki to play in all 56 games. He was named the Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Week on March 5, 2007 and he was a two-time selection to the College Baseball Foundation's National Honor Roll. Kelly is also mentioned on the "Watch List" for the 2008 Brooks Wallace Award.
The Hanover Park, Ill., native played 11 games for the 2007 Eastern Division champion Glens Falls Golden Eagles last summer. But, in those games, he scored seven runs, smashed one home run and drove in three.
The 2008 Johnny Bench Award "Watch List" consists of 36 catchers from 22 Division-I conferences. The initial list of 36 will be narrowed down to a group of semifinalists on May 14, 2008. Past winners of the Johnny Bench award include Kurt Suzuki, Ryan Garko, Jeremy Brown and Kelly Shoppach.
Last spring, Kelly was a first-team all-conference and first-team all-region selection for the Salukis. Kelly led the team in batting average (.379), hits (88), runs batted in (63), total bases (107) and slugging percentage (.461). He racked up a team-high 26 multi-hit and 17 multi-RBI games, amassed a 21-game hitting streak from Feb. 17 through Mar. 25 and was the only Saluki to play in all 56 games. He was named the Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Week on March 5, 2007 and he was a two-time selection to the College Baseball Foundation's National Honor Roll. Kelly is also mentioned on the "Watch List" for the 2008 Brooks Wallace Award.
The Hanover Park, Ill., native played 11 games for the 2007 Eastern Division champion Glens Falls Golden Eagles last summer. But, in those games, he scored seven runs, smashed one home run and drove in three.
The 2008 Johnny Bench Award "Watch List" consists of 36 catchers from 22 Division-I conferences. The initial list of 36 will be narrowed down to a group of semifinalists on May 14, 2008. Past winners of the Johnny Bench award include Kurt Suzuki, Ryan Garko, Jeremy Brown and Kelly Shoppach.
Monday, March 3, 2008
NYCBL 2008: The Highlanders Cometh
Four members of the Radford University baseball team have signed contracts to play for New York Collegiate Baseball League teams during the 2008 summer season.
The Highlanders, under first-year head coach Joe Raccuia, are currently riding a six-game winning streak and at 6-1 are off to the best start in school history. This past weekend, the Highlanders swept a three-game series at home from the University of Evansville. Radford also has posted victories over James Madison, Davidson and Georgetown.
Redshirt junior Ben Toth is on the roster of the Watertown Wizards. Toth sat out all of last season with a medical redshirt after shoulder surgery. As a sophomore, Toth hit .282 with one home run, 15 runs batted in and 10 multi-hit games. He played in 40 games and started 36. The Bedford, N.H., native started 34 games as a true freshman and batted .188. He recorded a hit in his first collegiate game against South Carolina. Toth's brother, Nate, also plays baseball at Radford.
Toth is off to a hot start for the Highlanders. Through seven games, Toth is second on the team with a .522 (12-for-23) batting average. He leads the team in runs scored (10), on-base percentage (.607) and stolen bases (4). Toth has started seven of the Highlanders games.
Junior pitcher Josh Hammonds will take the mound this summer for the Amsterdam Mohawks. Hammonds, a right-handed pitcher, paced the Highlanders in ERA (4.38) last season through 10 appearances. He earned one victory and held opposing hitters to a .221 batting average. As a freshman, Hammonds made 14 appearances and went 1-3. He struck out 21 batters in 27.1 innings pitched. The Herndon, Va., native was an all-district and all-region selection as a senior at Hernon High School.
Hammonds has made two appearances for the Highlanders in 2008. His best outing came at Davidson on February 24. He held the Wildcats scoreless for one inning and a third and allowed just three hits.
Sophomore Rick Hoogstraten is bound for Veterans Memorial Park to play for the Little Falls Miners. As a freshman, Hoogstraten hit .326 in 20 games. He drove in five runs and recorded at least one hit in 11 of his 20 games. He started 14 games for RU and made 13 starts in his final 14 appearances in the line-up. Hoogstraten was a two-time all-district and all-region honoree at Poquoson High School. He was also twice named to the Daily Press all-star team.
The Poquoson, Va., native has played in four games for RU this spring and started three of them. He is batting .222 (2-for-9) with one RBI and three runs scored.
Sophomore Tom Neiman will suit up for the Allegany County Nitros. As a freshman, Neiman played in 35 games and finished second on the team with a .319 batting average. He drove in 13 Radford runs on 30 hits and scored 18 more. The Pittsburgh, Pa., native hit .692 (9-for-13) in his collegiate debut series against Savannah State last February. Prior to RU, Neiman was a football and baseball star at Shaler High School. Tom has yet to see game action this spring.
Radford head coach Joe Raccuia is no stranger to the New York Collegiate Baseball League. He was the head baseball coach at Marist from 2003 through 2005. Several of Raccuia's top players competed in the New York Collegiate Baseball League including 2005 MAAC Relief Pitcher of the Year Robert Ryan (Allegany County '05) and 2005 NYCBL all-stars Patrick Feeney (Watertown '05) and Kevin Grauer (Allegany County '05).
The Highlanders, under first-year head coach Joe Raccuia, are currently riding a six-game winning streak and at 6-1 are off to the best start in school history. This past weekend, the Highlanders swept a three-game series at home from the University of Evansville. Radford also has posted victories over James Madison, Davidson and Georgetown.
Redshirt junior Ben Toth is on the roster of the Watertown Wizards. Toth sat out all of last season with a medical redshirt after shoulder surgery. As a sophomore, Toth hit .282 with one home run, 15 runs batted in and 10 multi-hit games. He played in 40 games and started 36. The Bedford, N.H., native started 34 games as a true freshman and batted .188. He recorded a hit in his first collegiate game against South Carolina. Toth's brother, Nate, also plays baseball at Radford.
Toth is off to a hot start for the Highlanders. Through seven games, Toth is second on the team with a .522 (12-for-23) batting average. He leads the team in runs scored (10), on-base percentage (.607) and stolen bases (4). Toth has started seven of the Highlanders games.
Junior pitcher Josh Hammonds will take the mound this summer for the Amsterdam Mohawks. Hammonds, a right-handed pitcher, paced the Highlanders in ERA (4.38) last season through 10 appearances. He earned one victory and held opposing hitters to a .221 batting average. As a freshman, Hammonds made 14 appearances and went 1-3. He struck out 21 batters in 27.1 innings pitched. The Herndon, Va., native was an all-district and all-region selection as a senior at Hernon High School.
Hammonds has made two appearances for the Highlanders in 2008. His best outing came at Davidson on February 24. He held the Wildcats scoreless for one inning and a third and allowed just three hits.
Sophomore Rick Hoogstraten is bound for Veterans Memorial Park to play for the Little Falls Miners. As a freshman, Hoogstraten hit .326 in 20 games. He drove in five runs and recorded at least one hit in 11 of his 20 games. He started 14 games for RU and made 13 starts in his final 14 appearances in the line-up. Hoogstraten was a two-time all-district and all-region honoree at Poquoson High School. He was also twice named to the Daily Press all-star team.
The Poquoson, Va., native has played in four games for RU this spring and started three of them. He is batting .222 (2-for-9) with one RBI and three runs scored.
Sophomore Tom Neiman will suit up for the Allegany County Nitros. As a freshman, Neiman played in 35 games and finished second on the team with a .319 batting average. He drove in 13 Radford runs on 30 hits and scored 18 more. The Pittsburgh, Pa., native hit .692 (9-for-13) in his collegiate debut series against Savannah State last February. Prior to RU, Neiman was a football and baseball star at Shaler High School. Tom has yet to see game action this spring.
Radford head coach Joe Raccuia is no stranger to the New York Collegiate Baseball League. He was the head baseball coach at Marist from 2003 through 2005. Several of Raccuia's top players competed in the New York Collegiate Baseball League including 2005 MAAC Relief Pitcher of the Year Robert Ryan (Allegany County '05) and 2005 NYCBL all-stars Patrick Feeney (Watertown '05) and Kevin Grauer (Allegany County '05).
Hains (Watertown '07) Receives MAC Honorable Mention (Feb. 26)
University at Buffalo sophomore Jeff Hains (Watertown '07) was named to Mid-America Conference's honorable mention list for the week ending February 25.
Hains, making his first appearance of the season, pitched three and two-thirds innings of hitless relief in Buffalo's 9-3 loss to North Carolina A&T on February 24. Hains entered in the fifth inning and held the Aggies to one unearned run for the remainder of the game. He set down the first four batters he faced including Nick Mayo (Hornell '07) and 2007 first team NYCBL all-star Joe McIntyre (Webster '07).
The Mexico, N.Y., native pitched for the Watertown Wizards last summer. He was 1-2 with a 3.00 earned run average in seven appearances for the Wizards. Hains struck out 24 batters in 22 innings pitched and held opposing hitters to a .266 batting average. Hains' best performance came against the Saratoga Phillies at Watertown's Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds on July 17. He pitched a two-hitter over seven innings and struck out a season-high seven batters as the Wizards defeated the Phillies, 4-1. Hains carried a no-hitter into the seventh inning.
Hains, making his first appearance of the season, pitched three and two-thirds innings of hitless relief in Buffalo's 9-3 loss to North Carolina A&T on February 24. Hains entered in the fifth inning and held the Aggies to one unearned run for the remainder of the game. He set down the first four batters he faced including Nick Mayo (Hornell '07) and 2007 first team NYCBL all-star Joe McIntyre (Webster '07).
The Mexico, N.Y., native pitched for the Watertown Wizards last summer. He was 1-2 with a 3.00 earned run average in seven appearances for the Wizards. Hains struck out 24 batters in 22 innings pitched and held opposing hitters to a .266 batting average. Hains' best performance came against the Saratoga Phillies at Watertown's Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds on July 17. He pitched a two-hitter over seven innings and struck out a season-high seven batters as the Wizards defeated the Phillies, 4-1. Hains carried a no-hitter into the seventh inning.
Scahill (AC '06) Named Valley's Pitcher of Week (Feb. 26)
Bradley University sophomore Rob Scahill (Allegany County '06) was named the Missouri Valley Conference's Pitcher of the Week for the week ending February 25.
Scahill, after missing the entire 2007 season with a medical redshirt, threw a one-hit shutout over six innings as Bradley defeated Murray State, 5-3, on February 23. Scahill allowed a lead-off bunt single in the first inning and then held the Racers without a hit for the remainder of his apperance. Scahill walked one and struck out a career-high eight batters. Only two Murray State batters were able to hit the ball out of the infield.
The Lombard, Ill., native helped the Allegany County Nitros to the 2006 Western Division championship in the New York Collegiate Baseball League. Scahill made a team-high 10 starts for the Nitros and finished 2-4 with a 3.30 earned run average. He threw a team-high 60 innings, pitched one complete game and finished second on the team with 48 strikeouts.
**UPDATE**
The former Nitros hurler pitched his second one-hit shutout over six innings as Bradley defeated Eastern Kentucky University, 4-0, on March 2. Scahill pitched a no-hitter through five and two-thirds innings before allowing a EKU single in the bottom of the sixth. In addition to pitching his second-straight shutout, Scahill equaled his career high with eight strikeouts. After allowing a single to Murray State in his first outing, Scahill went 11.2 innings before giving up another hit.
Scahill, after missing the entire 2007 season with a medical redshirt, threw a one-hit shutout over six innings as Bradley defeated Murray State, 5-3, on February 23. Scahill allowed a lead-off bunt single in the first inning and then held the Racers without a hit for the remainder of his apperance. Scahill walked one and struck out a career-high eight batters. Only two Murray State batters were able to hit the ball out of the infield.
The Lombard, Ill., native helped the Allegany County Nitros to the 2006 Western Division championship in the New York Collegiate Baseball League. Scahill made a team-high 10 starts for the Nitros and finished 2-4 with a 3.30 earned run average. He threw a team-high 60 innings, pitched one complete game and finished second on the team with 48 strikeouts.
**UPDATE**
The former Nitros hurler pitched his second one-hit shutout over six innings as Bradley defeated Eastern Kentucky University, 4-0, on March 2. Scahill pitched a no-hitter through five and two-thirds innings before allowing a EKU single in the bottom of the sixth. In addition to pitching his second-straight shutout, Scahill equaled his career high with eight strikeouts. After allowing a single to Murray State in his first outing, Scahill went 11.2 innings before giving up another hit.
Donato (Bennington '07) Tabbed MAAC Player Of Week (Feb. 26)
Adam Donato (Bennington '07) was selected as the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference's Player of the Week for the week ending February 25th.
Donato, a senior at Canisius, hit .462 (6-for-13) with seven runs scored, four runs batted in, two doubles and one home run in three of the Golden Griffs first four games of the season. Canisius went undefeated in its first four games and opened the season 4-0 for the first time since 1978. Donato was one of three Golden Griffs honored by the MAAC.
The Jamestown, N.Y., native opened his 2008 season with a 3-for-5 performance in the Griffins 11-8 victory over St. Bonaventure. Donato, batting lead-off, scored three runs and drove in three more. He keyed a Griffins nine-run surge in the fifth inning with a pair of doubles, one RBI and two runs scored. Donato helped Canisius sweep a doubleheader from Long Island University the following day. In the night cap, he was 2-for-5 with two runs batted in and three runs scored. Donato belted a two-run single, walked and scored two runs in a 13-run second inning.
Donato played for the Bennington Bombers of the New York Collegiate Baseball League last summer. He was the only Bombers position player to compete in the NYCBL All-Star Game. Donato hit .260 with one home run and nine RBI for Bennington. He played in 23 games but finished second on the team in batting average.
Donato, a senior at Canisius, hit .462 (6-for-13) with seven runs scored, four runs batted in, two doubles and one home run in three of the Golden Griffs first four games of the season. Canisius went undefeated in its first four games and opened the season 4-0 for the first time since 1978. Donato was one of three Golden Griffs honored by the MAAC.
The Jamestown, N.Y., native opened his 2008 season with a 3-for-5 performance in the Griffins 11-8 victory over St. Bonaventure. Donato, batting lead-off, scored three runs and drove in three more. He keyed a Griffins nine-run surge in the fifth inning with a pair of doubles, one RBI and two runs scored. Donato helped Canisius sweep a doubleheader from Long Island University the following day. In the night cap, he was 2-for-5 with two runs batted in and three runs scored. Donato belted a two-run single, walked and scored two runs in a 13-run second inning.
Donato played for the Bennington Bombers of the New York Collegiate Baseball League last summer. He was the only Bombers position player to compete in the NYCBL All-Star Game. Donato hit .260 with one home run and nine RBI for Bennington. He played in 23 games but finished second on the team in batting average.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Colafemina (Amsterdam '04) Signs With Capitales
Josh Colafemina (Amsterdam '04) has signed a contract with the Quebec Capitales of the independent Can-Am League for the 2008 season. Colafemina played for the Can-Am League's Grays in 2007.
Colafemina hit .262 in 86 games for the Grays last year. He swiped a team-high 32 bases and finished fourth in the league in steals. Colafemina tallied 86 hits, 59 runs scored, 13 doubles, 37 walks and 23 runs batted in. The Grays, a road-only team, ceased operations at the end of the 2007 season. The Capitales selected Colafemina in a dispersal draft of players from the Grays roster.
The Schenectady, N.Y., native won back-to-back New York Collegiate Baseball League championships as a member of the Amsterdam Mohawks in 2003 and 2004. He was a second team NYCBL all-star in 2004 after his second campaign with the Mohawks.
Colafemina played collegiately at the College of St. Rose under the legendary Bob Bellizzi. He was a two-time all-region and three-time all-conference selection for the Golden Knights. Colafemina finished his collegiate career among St. Rose's career offensive leaders in hits, doubles, runs and stolen bases. His 213 career hits rank third all-time at St. Rose.
The Kansas City Royals tabbed Colafemina in the 24th round (712nd overall) of the 2005 Major League Baseball entry draft. He began his professional career with the Idaho Falls Chukars of the Pioneer League. Colafemina hit .238 in 49 games for the Chukars and stole 12 bases. He was released by the Royals following the 2005 season.
According to the Capitales web site, Colafemina is expected to be the team's every day second baseman. As of now, Colafemina is one of two former NYCBL players on the Capitales roster. Shawn Ryan (Glens Falls '04) pitched for Quebec last season.
Colafemina hit .262 in 86 games for the Grays last year. He swiped a team-high 32 bases and finished fourth in the league in steals. Colafemina tallied 86 hits, 59 runs scored, 13 doubles, 37 walks and 23 runs batted in. The Grays, a road-only team, ceased operations at the end of the 2007 season. The Capitales selected Colafemina in a dispersal draft of players from the Grays roster.
The Schenectady, N.Y., native won back-to-back New York Collegiate Baseball League championships as a member of the Amsterdam Mohawks in 2003 and 2004. He was a second team NYCBL all-star in 2004 after his second campaign with the Mohawks.
Colafemina played collegiately at the College of St. Rose under the legendary Bob Bellizzi. He was a two-time all-region and three-time all-conference selection for the Golden Knights. Colafemina finished his collegiate career among St. Rose's career offensive leaders in hits, doubles, runs and stolen bases. His 213 career hits rank third all-time at St. Rose.
The Kansas City Royals tabbed Colafemina in the 24th round (712nd overall) of the 2005 Major League Baseball entry draft. He began his professional career with the Idaho Falls Chukars of the Pioneer League. Colafemina hit .238 in 49 games for the Chukars and stole 12 bases. He was released by the Royals following the 2005 season.
According to the Capitales web site, Colafemina is expected to be the team's every day second baseman. As of now, Colafemina is one of two former NYCBL players on the Capitales roster. Shawn Ryan (Glens Falls '04) pitched for Quebec last season.
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