INDIANA 8 (GAME 1)
PURDUE 15
In the first game of the doubleheader, Boilermaker reliever Matt Bischoff got the win and moved to 3-2 on the season after pitching 3 scoreless innings, giving up just two hits and striking out one Hoosier batter. Indiana reliever Joey O'Gala recieved the loss and dropped to 2-3 on the season after giving up 3 runs on 5 hits in 1.2 innings pitched. Offensively the Boilermakers were led by 2B Eric Charles who was 3-3 with 3 runs, 2 RBI, and a BB. Alex Jaffee and Brandon Haveman also both added HRs to put the Hoosiers away. Indiana was led by 3B Vince Gonzalez who went 2-4 with 1 run and 3 RBI. Phegley, Dickerson, and Schutz each added two hits in the game as well, but it was not enough for the red and white in game one. With the win, the Boilermakers improved to 19-21 overall, and 6-9 in the Big Ten. The loss puts the Hoosiers at 21-23 (10-5).
INDIANA 7
PURDUE 6 (GAME 2)
In the second game of this Saturday doubleheader, Indiana's Eric Arnett threw a complete game, giving up 6 runs on 10 hits while striking out 9 Boilermakers. With the win, Arnett moved to 10-1 on the season. Purdue reliever Joe Haase takes the loss and moves to 1-2 on the season after pitching 4.1 innings and giving up 2 runs on 6 hits. The Hoosiers were led by 1B Jerrud Sabourin who finished the game 4-5 with a HR and 2 RBI. RF Chris Hervey was also 2-3 with a HR and 1 RBI. The Boilermakers were led offensively by leadoff hitter Brandon Haveman, who was 3-5 with 2 runs. Purdue 2B Eric Charles also collected two hits, and finished 2-4 on the night. With the win, the Hoosiers moved to 22-23 overall, and 11-5 in conference. The loss puts the Boilermakers at 19-22 (6-10).
MICHIGAN 6
OHIO ST. 9 (GAME 2)
In the second game of this twinbill, Buckeyes starter Dean Wolosiansky improved to 10-1 on the year after giving up 4 runs and striking out 5 in 5.2 innings of work. The Wolverines' Tyler Burgoon fell to 4-1 after giving up 6 runs (2 earned) in 1.2 innings worked. Offensively the Bucks were led by DH Ryan Dew who was an impressive 5-5 with a HR and 2 RBI. CF Michael Stevens was also 3-4 with 2 runs and 1 RBI. Michigan's top hitter was 2B Nick Urban, who finished 2-4 with a HR and 2 RBI. With the win the Buckeyes improved to 34-10 (13-4), while the Wolverines dropped to 23-21 (6-11).
Overall we saw a lot of offense in the Big Ten tonight, highlighted by the 26 run performance that the Gophers put on the Hawkeyes. Conversely, we did see some great pitching as well, as Ohio State's Alex Wimmers no-hit the Wolverines in game 1 of a doubleheader. Once again, no big surprises, it looks as though the Big Ten race will come down to who plays better throughout the last 7 conference games between Ohio State, Illinois, and Minnesota. This being said, don't forget about the Hoosiers at 11-5, and especially the red-hot Spartans at 10-7.
Stay tuned for coverage of tomorrow's series finales, Weekend All-Conference Performers, and updated statistics and standings.
Indiana Wins 2009 Big Ten Tournament
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Saturday's Conference Results
INDIANA 8
PURDUE 15
INDIANA 7
PURDUE 6
MICHIGAN 0
OHIO ST. 6
Because of the cancellation of Friday's game, the Buckeyes and Wolverines played two today. By glancing at the score, it may seem as though there wasn't that much excitement, but don't be fooled. Ohio St. starter Alex Wimmers pitched a complete game no-hitter, striking out 14 Wolverines in the process. Wimmers walked four, but Ohio St. catcher Dan Burkhardt threw three of the four runners out trying to steal. With the win, Wimmers moved to 8-1 on the season. Wolverines starter Chris Fetter had a rare mediocre performance, giving up 4 ER on 9 hits. With the loss, Fetter dropped to 6-2 on the season. Ryan Dew led the way for the red and gray with a homerun and 3 RBI. With the win, the Buckeyes improved to 33-12 overall, and 12-4 in conference. The Wolverines fell to 23-20 overall, and 6-10 in the Big Ten.
MICHIGAN 6
OHIO ST. 9 in progress
MICHIGAN ST. 9
PENN ST. 1
Spartan's hurler A.J. Achter went 8 innings, giving up only one unearned run on 9 hits to improve to 3-3 on the season. Penn St. starter Mike Lorentson gave up two runs on three hits in 2.1 innings, taking the loss and dropping to 1-7 on the year. Offensively, the green and white were led by SS Jonathan Roof, who finished 3-4 with 3 runs and 3 RBI. Penn St. C Ben Heath led the way for the Nittany Lions, finishing 2-4 with 1 RBI. With the win, the Spartans continue their impressive play and move to 20-24 overall, and 10-7 in the Big Ten. The Nittany Lions' loss drops them to 22-21 overall, and 5-10 in conference.
ILLINOIS 15
NORTHWESTERN 12
Fighting Illini starter Ben Reeser recieved a no decision after throwing 4 innings, and giving up 2 ER on 6 hits. Illinois reliever Mike Stankiewicz picked up the win to move to 1-1 after a 2.2 inning performance in which he gave up 5 runs on 3 hits. For the Wildcats, Jokisch dropped to 3-6 on the season after giving up 10 runs on 10 hits with 5 walks. Offensively, the blue and orange were led by RF Pete Capetta, who finsihed the game 4-6 with 1 HR and 4 RBI. Parr, Johnson, Altobelli, and Wikoff also added three hits each to propel the Illini. The Wildcats' Sneider led the way going 3-5 with a HR and an RBI. With the win, Illinois improves to 29-13 on the year, and 13-4 in conference. The loss drops the Wildcats to 12-29 overall, and 3-12 in Big Ten play.
IOWA 9
MINNESOTA 26
Lots to be said about this one, but I'll keep it short. Gophers starter Tom Buske continues to pitch well, and gets the win. In fact, he pretty much had the win in the bag after the first inning, when the Gophers found themselves up 9-0. Lots of walks, longballs, and errors contributed to a game which featured 35 runs in Gopherland. Minnesota 2B Derek McCallum hit his 13th HR and second of the weekend. With the win, the Gophers move to 29-13 overall, and 12-4 in conference. The loss drops the Hawkeyes to 14-29 (3-13).
More to come regarding the Indiana/Purdue doubleheader, and game two of Ohio St./Michigan. Stay tuned!
PURDUE 15
INDIANA 7
PURDUE 6
MICHIGAN 0
OHIO ST. 6
Because of the cancellation of Friday's game, the Buckeyes and Wolverines played two today. By glancing at the score, it may seem as though there wasn't that much excitement, but don't be fooled. Ohio St. starter Alex Wimmers pitched a complete game no-hitter, striking out 14 Wolverines in the process. Wimmers walked four, but Ohio St. catcher Dan Burkhardt threw three of the four runners out trying to steal. With the win, Wimmers moved to 8-1 on the season. Wolverines starter Chris Fetter had a rare mediocre performance, giving up 4 ER on 9 hits. With the loss, Fetter dropped to 6-2 on the season. Ryan Dew led the way for the red and gray with a homerun and 3 RBI. With the win, the Buckeyes improved to 33-12 overall, and 12-4 in conference. The Wolverines fell to 23-20 overall, and 6-10 in the Big Ten.
MICHIGAN 6
OHIO ST. 9 in progress
MICHIGAN ST. 9
PENN ST. 1
Spartan's hurler A.J. Achter went 8 innings, giving up only one unearned run on 9 hits to improve to 3-3 on the season. Penn St. starter Mike Lorentson gave up two runs on three hits in 2.1 innings, taking the loss and dropping to 1-7 on the year. Offensively, the green and white were led by SS Jonathan Roof, who finished 3-4 with 3 runs and 3 RBI. Penn St. C Ben Heath led the way for the Nittany Lions, finishing 2-4 with 1 RBI. With the win, the Spartans continue their impressive play and move to 20-24 overall, and 10-7 in the Big Ten. The Nittany Lions' loss drops them to 22-21 overall, and 5-10 in conference.
ILLINOIS 15
NORTHWESTERN 12
Fighting Illini starter Ben Reeser recieved a no decision after throwing 4 innings, and giving up 2 ER on 6 hits. Illinois reliever Mike Stankiewicz picked up the win to move to 1-1 after a 2.2 inning performance in which he gave up 5 runs on 3 hits. For the Wildcats, Jokisch dropped to 3-6 on the season after giving up 10 runs on 10 hits with 5 walks. Offensively, the blue and orange were led by RF Pete Capetta, who finsihed the game 4-6 with 1 HR and 4 RBI. Parr, Johnson, Altobelli, and Wikoff also added three hits each to propel the Illini. The Wildcats' Sneider led the way going 3-5 with a HR and an RBI. With the win, Illinois improves to 29-13 on the year, and 13-4 in conference. The loss drops the Wildcats to 12-29 overall, and 3-12 in Big Ten play.
IOWA 9
MINNESOTA 26
Lots to be said about this one, but I'll keep it short. Gophers starter Tom Buske continues to pitch well, and gets the win. In fact, he pretty much had the win in the bag after the first inning, when the Gophers found themselves up 9-0. Lots of walks, longballs, and errors contributed to a game which featured 35 runs in Gopherland. Minnesota 2B Derek McCallum hit his 13th HR and second of the weekend. With the win, the Gophers move to 29-13 overall, and 12-4 in conference. The loss drops the Hawkeyes to 14-29 (3-13).
More to come regarding the Indiana/Purdue doubleheader, and game two of Ohio St./Michigan. Stay tuned!
Friday, May 1, 2009
Tonight's Big Ten Results
PENN STATE 1
MICHIGAN ST. 12
The Spartan's Nolan Moody only gave up one run on 4 hits in 8 innings worked, and collected 9 K's to improve to 6-4 on the season. Penn State's T.J. Macy pitched 4.2 innings, gave up 5 runs, walked 4, and struckout 4. Macy recieved the loss and went to 3-4 on the year. Offensively the Spartans collected 13 hits, and were led by 2B Chris Roberts who went 3-4 with 3 runs, 3 RBI, and a HR. 1B Jeff Holm also went a perfect 3-3 with 2 runs and 2 RBI. The Nittany Lions managed only 5 hits on the day, 2 coming from cleanup-hitting 3B Jordan Steranka who finished 2-4 on the night. C Bobby Jacobs provided the only run for Penn St., going 1-3 with a solo HR in the top of the third. With the win, the Spartans move to 19-24 on the season, and 9-7 in Big Ten play. The loss puts the Nittany Lions at 22-20 overall, and 5-11 in the Big Ten.
ILLINOIS 10
NORTHWESTERN 2
The Fighting Illini's ace Phil Haig went the distance, giving up only 1 ER on 6 hits, with 3 K's. With the win, Haig moves to 6-2 on the year. Northwestern's starter Joe Muraski falls to 3-5 on the year after giving up 6 ER on 9 hits in 5.2 innings of work. The orange and blue were powered offensively by homeruns from C Aaron Johnson, and DH Willie Argo. SS Brandon Wikoff also was 2-3, with 2 runs, 2 RBI, and 1 BB. Northwestern collected 6 hits, two of which came from CF Kenneth Avila, who finished 2-3 on the night. 3B Chris Lashmet hit a solo HR and finsihed 1-4 on the night. With the win, the Fighting Illini improve to 28-13 overall, and 12-4 in conference. The loss puts the Wildcats at 12-28 overall, and 3-11 in the Big Ten.
IOWA 3
MINNESOTA 4
Golden Gopher starter Chauncy Handran gave up three runs on nine hits, and struck out four in a no decision. Freshmen Austin Lubinsky pitched two scoreless innings out of the bullpen for Minnesota to pick up the win. With the win, Lubinsky moved to 2-0 on the season. Scott Matyas continues pitching well, and earned another save tonight. Iowa's Phil Schreiber gave up 2 runs on 7 hits in 5.1 innings pitched to get the no decision. Iowa reliever Steve Turnbull gave up 3 hits and 2 runs in 2.1 innings to take the loss, dropping to 1-2 on the season. Offensively, Minnesota was led by C Kyle Knudson who finsihed 2-4 with 2 RBI, and CF Eric Decker, who reached base 3 times, and finished 2-3 with an RBI. 2B Derek McCallum continues to swing a hot bat as he finished tonight 2-5 with his 12th HR of the season. Iowa was led by CF Kurt Muller, who reached base four times and finished 2-3 with a run and two stolen bases. Trevor Willis finished the game 1-4 with a two-run HR, but it was not enough for the Wildcats tonight.
INDIANA
PURDUE postponed
MICHIGAN
OHIO STATE postponed
No big surprises in Big Ten play tonight. Michigan State's consistent performances over the past few weeks has put them comfortably in a position for a Big Ten tournament berth, and they are arguably the hottest team in the conference at the moment. Illinois and Minnesota continue to play well, and find themselves atop the conference standings.
Stay tuned for updates and results of tomorrow's Big Ten action.
MICHIGAN ST. 12
The Spartan's Nolan Moody only gave up one run on 4 hits in 8 innings worked, and collected 9 K's to improve to 6-4 on the season. Penn State's T.J. Macy pitched 4.2 innings, gave up 5 runs, walked 4, and struckout 4. Macy recieved the loss and went to 3-4 on the year. Offensively the Spartans collected 13 hits, and were led by 2B Chris Roberts who went 3-4 with 3 runs, 3 RBI, and a HR. 1B Jeff Holm also went a perfect 3-3 with 2 runs and 2 RBI. The Nittany Lions managed only 5 hits on the day, 2 coming from cleanup-hitting 3B Jordan Steranka who finished 2-4 on the night. C Bobby Jacobs provided the only run for Penn St., going 1-3 with a solo HR in the top of the third. With the win, the Spartans move to 19-24 on the season, and 9-7 in Big Ten play. The loss puts the Nittany Lions at 22-20 overall, and 5-11 in the Big Ten.
ILLINOIS 10
NORTHWESTERN 2
The Fighting Illini's ace Phil Haig went the distance, giving up only 1 ER on 6 hits, with 3 K's. With the win, Haig moves to 6-2 on the year. Northwestern's starter Joe Muraski falls to 3-5 on the year after giving up 6 ER on 9 hits in 5.2 innings of work. The orange and blue were powered offensively by homeruns from C Aaron Johnson, and DH Willie Argo. SS Brandon Wikoff also was 2-3, with 2 runs, 2 RBI, and 1 BB. Northwestern collected 6 hits, two of which came from CF Kenneth Avila, who finished 2-3 on the night. 3B Chris Lashmet hit a solo HR and finsihed 1-4 on the night. With the win, the Fighting Illini improve to 28-13 overall, and 12-4 in conference. The loss puts the Wildcats at 12-28 overall, and 3-11 in the Big Ten.
IOWA 3
MINNESOTA 4
Golden Gopher starter Chauncy Handran gave up three runs on nine hits, and struck out four in a no decision. Freshmen Austin Lubinsky pitched two scoreless innings out of the bullpen for Minnesota to pick up the win. With the win, Lubinsky moved to 2-0 on the season. Scott Matyas continues pitching well, and earned another save tonight. Iowa's Phil Schreiber gave up 2 runs on 7 hits in 5.1 innings pitched to get the no decision. Iowa reliever Steve Turnbull gave up 3 hits and 2 runs in 2.1 innings to take the loss, dropping to 1-2 on the season. Offensively, Minnesota was led by C Kyle Knudson who finsihed 2-4 with 2 RBI, and CF Eric Decker, who reached base 3 times, and finished 2-3 with an RBI. 2B Derek McCallum continues to swing a hot bat as he finished tonight 2-5 with his 12th HR of the season. Iowa was led by CF Kurt Muller, who reached base four times and finished 2-3 with a run and two stolen bases. Trevor Willis finished the game 1-4 with a two-run HR, but it was not enough for the Wildcats tonight.
INDIANA
PURDUE postponed
MICHIGAN
OHIO STATE postponed
No big surprises in Big Ten play tonight. Michigan State's consistent performances over the past few weeks has put them comfortably in a position for a Big Ten tournament berth, and they are arguably the hottest team in the conference at the moment. Illinois and Minnesota continue to play well, and find themselves atop the conference standings.
Stay tuned for updates and results of tomorrow's Big Ten action.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Michigan's Chris Fetter Named to CBF National All-Star Lineup
The Big Ten's leading pitcher in ERA, Michigan's Chris Fetter, was named to the College Baseball Foundation's National All-Star Lineup on April 28, 2009. In Fetter's impressive complete game this weekend he recorded 12 K's while only giving up two runs. After this performance, Fetter moved to third on Michigan's all-time strikout list with 260 K's in his career.
Illinois' Wikoff Named to Brooks Wallace Award Watch List
Illinois Fighting Illini shortstop Brandon Wikoff has been named to the Brooks Wallace Award watch list. Previously, this award is given to the best college baseball player in the nation, but this year it has changed to the top college shortstop. Wikoff has proven to be one of the toughest hitters to get out in the nation, striking out only 6 times the entire season.
Vote for Minnesota Senior OF Matt Nohelty for the Most Prestigous Senior Award!
Hello all,
Minnesota Golden Gopher senior outfielder Matt Nohelty has been nominated as a finalist for the Lowe's Senior Class Award. The award honors seniors who have notable achievements in four areas of excellence: Classroom, Character, Community and Competition. This is not only a great honor for Mr. Nohelty, but a great honor for the Big Ten conference, which is known for consistently producing top notch student athletes. Please take the time to recognize Matt and the Big Ten Conference by going to the following link and voting for him.
http://www.seniorclassaward.com/vote/baseball_2009/?SPSID=38638&SPID=3298&DB_OEM_ID=8400
Minnesota Golden Gopher senior outfielder Matt Nohelty has been nominated as a finalist for the Lowe's Senior Class Award. The award honors seniors who have notable achievements in four areas of excellence: Classroom, Character, Community and Competition. This is not only a great honor for Mr. Nohelty, but a great honor for the Big Ten conference, which is known for consistently producing top notch student athletes. Please take the time to recognize Matt and the Big Ten Conference by going to the following link and voting for him.
http://www.seniorclassaward.com/vote/baseball_2009/?SPSID=38638&SPID=3298&DB_OEM_ID=8400
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Players to Watch
Just a few players to watch as you follow this weekend's games:
C: Josh Phegley, Indiana. The Hoosier's big man behind the plate has been quiet as of late, but I think we'll see a big weekend out of him against a struggling Boilermakers pitching staff.
1B: Nick O'Shea, Minnesota. Although this redshirt freshmen is only hitting .251 on the season, he is a consistent power threat in the heart of the Gophers lineup. As Minnesota plays its' first home series outdoors in a smaller ballpark, look for O'Shea to deposit a couple of baseballs over the fence against the league worst Hawkeyes pitching staff this weekend.
2B: Derek McCallum, Minnesota. How can't you pick this guy? He's leading the Big Ten in hitting with a batting average of .394, 55 RBI, and 11 HR. I don't see the Big Ten's hottest hitter slowing down much this weekend against the gold and black.
SS: Brandon Wikoff, Illinois. Wikoff might easily be the smallest player in the Big Ten, but don't let that mislead you. Wikoff is one of the toughest players in the nation to strikeout, an event that he's only experienced 6 times the entire year. Wikoff has become a consistent contributor to the Fighting Illini offense, and should contribute largely again this weekend against Northwestern.
3B: Dan Black, Purdue. Black is coming off of a tough weekend in Minneapolis against the Gophers. Not only did he struggle, his team struggled, dropping their fourth, fifth, and sixth straight conference game. Look for the Big Ten HR leader to bounce back and have a strong weekend to hopefully get his Boilers out of this funk they're in.
OF: Brandon Haveman, Purdue. The Big Ten's second best hitter, sitting at an impressive .392 should also continue to swing a hot bat along with his teammate Dan Black this weekend. Something's got to go right for the Boilers this weekend doesn't it?
OF: Justin Gominsky, Minnesota. This true freshman has done nothing but impress since he became an everyday outfielder for the Gophers mid-season. In his 25 starts for Minnesota thus far, he is hitting .371 and has provided great speed and a dangerous arm in the field for the Gophers. After a strong midweek contest in which he gathered three hits, including a HR, I see Gominsky being a determining factor for the Gophers in their weekend series against the Hawkeyes.
OF: Dan Burkhardt, Ohio St. Not much to say about this guy. He flat out can hit. He's quietly rose to the top of the Big Ten in hitting with a batting average of .384 for a red-hot Buckeyes team.
P: Eric Arnett, Indiana. Arnett has been phenomenal in his past few starts, compiling a season ERA of 2.49 and a record of 9-1 this season. Arnett's professional stock is rising quickly as scouts are impressed with his ability to throw hard, even in late innings. Arnett's fastball was clocked at 94 mph in the 10th inning of an extra innings game a few weekends ago. He also was recently placed on the National Pitcher of the Year watch list.
P: Chris Fetter, Michigan. The Big Ten's leader in ERA (2.18) comes into this weekend with a 6-1 record, and has no signs of slowing down.
P: Tom Buske, Minnesota. The Gophers fifth year senior has quietly compiled the Big Ten's second best ERA (2.34) and a 6-3 record. Buske doesn't throw hard, but uses his changeup and slider to keep hitters guessing, and so far, it has worked flawlessly. I don't see this changing this weekend as the Gophers try to swallow the sub-par Hawkeyes hitters.
C: Josh Phegley, Indiana. The Hoosier's big man behind the plate has been quiet as of late, but I think we'll see a big weekend out of him against a struggling Boilermakers pitching staff.
1B: Nick O'Shea, Minnesota. Although this redshirt freshmen is only hitting .251 on the season, he is a consistent power threat in the heart of the Gophers lineup. As Minnesota plays its' first home series outdoors in a smaller ballpark, look for O'Shea to deposit a couple of baseballs over the fence against the league worst Hawkeyes pitching staff this weekend.
2B: Derek McCallum, Minnesota. How can't you pick this guy? He's leading the Big Ten in hitting with a batting average of .394, 55 RBI, and 11 HR. I don't see the Big Ten's hottest hitter slowing down much this weekend against the gold and black.
SS: Brandon Wikoff, Illinois. Wikoff might easily be the smallest player in the Big Ten, but don't let that mislead you. Wikoff is one of the toughest players in the nation to strikeout, an event that he's only experienced 6 times the entire year. Wikoff has become a consistent contributor to the Fighting Illini offense, and should contribute largely again this weekend against Northwestern.
3B: Dan Black, Purdue. Black is coming off of a tough weekend in Minneapolis against the Gophers. Not only did he struggle, his team struggled, dropping their fourth, fifth, and sixth straight conference game. Look for the Big Ten HR leader to bounce back and have a strong weekend to hopefully get his Boilers out of this funk they're in.
OF: Brandon Haveman, Purdue. The Big Ten's second best hitter, sitting at an impressive .392 should also continue to swing a hot bat along with his teammate Dan Black this weekend. Something's got to go right for the Boilers this weekend doesn't it?
OF: Justin Gominsky, Minnesota. This true freshman has done nothing but impress since he became an everyday outfielder for the Gophers mid-season. In his 25 starts for Minnesota thus far, he is hitting .371 and has provided great speed and a dangerous arm in the field for the Gophers. After a strong midweek contest in which he gathered three hits, including a HR, I see Gominsky being a determining factor for the Gophers in their weekend series against the Hawkeyes.
OF: Dan Burkhardt, Ohio St. Not much to say about this guy. He flat out can hit. He's quietly rose to the top of the Big Ten in hitting with a batting average of .384 for a red-hot Buckeyes team.
P: Eric Arnett, Indiana. Arnett has been phenomenal in his past few starts, compiling a season ERA of 2.49 and a record of 9-1 this season. Arnett's professional stock is rising quickly as scouts are impressed with his ability to throw hard, even in late innings. Arnett's fastball was clocked at 94 mph in the 10th inning of an extra innings game a few weekends ago. He also was recently placed on the National Pitcher of the Year watch list.
P: Chris Fetter, Michigan. The Big Ten's leader in ERA (2.18) comes into this weekend with a 6-1 record, and has no signs of slowing down.
P: Tom Buske, Minnesota. The Gophers fifth year senior has quietly compiled the Big Ten's second best ERA (2.34) and a 6-3 record. Buske doesn't throw hard, but uses his changeup and slider to keep hitters guessing, and so far, it has worked flawlessly. I don't see this changing this weekend as the Gophers try to swallow the sub-par Hawkeyes hitters.
Preview of this Weekend's Big Ten Matchups
As promised, here is a list of this weekend's Big Ten matchups.
-Penn St. (5-10) travels to East Lansing to take on Michigan St. (8-7). The Spartans will come into this 3 game series confidently as they made a clean sweep of the Iowa Hawkeyes in Iowa City last weekend. The Spartans began the Big Ten season a little rough, but now things seem to be clicking and they are looking to solidify a spot and make a run in the Big Ten tournament. The Nittany Lions, on the other hand, are looking to rebound after dropping three games at home against the Fighting Illini of Illinois. Granted Illinois is a tough opponent, it never feels good to drop 3 games at home, especially against a conference opponent. Although the Spartans are hitting a mere .277 as a team, there pitching has been phenomenal as of late, currently sitting at 4th in the Big Ten with a 5.01 ERA. Penn St. is hitting a bit better at .300, but their pitching is a little weaker with a team ERA of 5.73. On paper, this looks like a pretty even matchup of Big Ten teams, but I see this one boiling down to how Penn St. responds to a tough past weekend. If they come ready to play and hungry for some victories, they could easily take the series against the red-hot Spartans.
-Illinois (11-4) goes on the road to face Northwestern (3-10) in a three game series. The Fighting Illini are coming off of an impressive three-game road sweep of Penn St., which put them in a first place tie with Ohio St. Northwestern is coming off of a weekend which saw them go 1-2 vs. the Buckeyes in Colombus, OH. The Fighting Illini currently are hitting .317, which ranks third among Big Ten teams. They also have had tremendous pitching to date, posting a 2nd best conference ERA of 4.84. The Wildcats come into this weekend's series as the league's worst hitting team, at .265. Their pitching is not much better with an ERA of 5.82. Unless the Wildcats can figure out a way to slow down the Blue and Orange's speedy and powerful lineup, I see this one going to the Illini easily.
-Indiana (10-4) travels to West Lafayette, IN to take on the Boilermakers of Purdue (5-9). The Hoosiers are coming off of a 2-1 weekend against the always tough Wolverines of Michigan. Purdue is looking to rebound after dropping 6 straight conference games to Ohio St. and Minnesota. The Hoosiers are 2nd in the Big Ten in hitting at .325, and sixth in pitching with an ERA of 5.68. Conversely, Purdue is fifth in hitting at .312, and ninth in pitching with an ERA of 5.93. With the recent success of Hoosiers starting pitcher Jake Arnett, and Indiana's talented arsenal of hitters facing a sub-par Purdue pitching staff, it seems hard to believe that the Boilermakers will fare any better than they have in the past two weekends, although I've been known to be wrong. Sometimes losing 6 straight conference games brings out the best in a team, right? We will see.
-The so far "under achieving) Michigan Wolverines (6-9) travel to Colombus, OH to face the Buckeyes of Ohio St. (11-4). The Wolverines are coming off of a 1-2 weekend against Indiana, while the Buckeyes are coming off of a 2-1 weekend at home against Northwestern. Michigan has been quite a surprise this season thus far. Even though they lost a lot of talented players due to graduation and the MLB draft, a team coached by Rich Maloney has and will continue to be picked to finish near the top of the Big Ten each year. The Buckeyes, on the other hand, are not much of a surprise; they are a top threat for the Big Ten crown as predicted. The Buckeyes come into this weekend hitting .330, which is the best team batting average in the Big Ten. They also have a strong pitching staff, which has posted an ERA of 5.45 this year. The Wolverines are hitting a mere .290 on the season. On the bright side, Michigan's pitching staff has been stellar as usual, compiling the Big Ten's third best ERA at 4.86. This series has huge implications of what is to come in the end of the Big Ten season. Ohio St. looks to be a lock into the Big Ten tournament, but more interestingly, Michigan has their work cut out for them if they want to keep their post-season dreams alive. For Michigan, it's crunch time. In my opinion, they need to win at least 2 out of 3 against the Buckeyes this weekend in order to stay afloat in the Big Ten. Knowing Michigan head coach Rich Maloney, the Wolverines will come into this weekend ready to play knowing their urgency, and will win the series this weekend.
-Iowa (3-11) travels to Minneapolis to take on the Golden Gophers of Minnesota (10-4). The Hawkeyes are coming off of a tough 3 game skid against Michigan St. at home. Minnesota comes into this weekend confidently after sweeping the Boilermakers in all three games at the Metrodome. The Hawkeyes are hitting .291 on the year, which is obviously below average, but not terrible. The problem lies in their pitching, which is last in the Big Ten with an ERA of 6.07. Conversely of this, the Gophers pitching staff continues to impress and sits atop of the Big Ten with an ERA of 4.42, led by their dominant duo of senior starters Chauncy Handran and Tom Buske. Offensively, the Gophers are fourth in the Big Ten, hitting .313 on the season. On paper, this one looks a bit one-sided, but let's not be fooled. The Hawkeyes hate losing, especially to the Gophers. This being said, I still think Minnesota will manage to take the series as their powerful lineup and consistent pitching will be too much for the Hawkeyes to swallow.
-Penn St. (5-10) travels to East Lansing to take on Michigan St. (8-7). The Spartans will come into this 3 game series confidently as they made a clean sweep of the Iowa Hawkeyes in Iowa City last weekend. The Spartans began the Big Ten season a little rough, but now things seem to be clicking and they are looking to solidify a spot and make a run in the Big Ten tournament. The Nittany Lions, on the other hand, are looking to rebound after dropping three games at home against the Fighting Illini of Illinois. Granted Illinois is a tough opponent, it never feels good to drop 3 games at home, especially against a conference opponent. Although the Spartans are hitting a mere .277 as a team, there pitching has been phenomenal as of late, currently sitting at 4th in the Big Ten with a 5.01 ERA. Penn St. is hitting a bit better at .300, but their pitching is a little weaker with a team ERA of 5.73. On paper, this looks like a pretty even matchup of Big Ten teams, but I see this one boiling down to how Penn St. responds to a tough past weekend. If they come ready to play and hungry for some victories, they could easily take the series against the red-hot Spartans.
-Illinois (11-4) goes on the road to face Northwestern (3-10) in a three game series. The Fighting Illini are coming off of an impressive three-game road sweep of Penn St., which put them in a first place tie with Ohio St. Northwestern is coming off of a weekend which saw them go 1-2 vs. the Buckeyes in Colombus, OH. The Fighting Illini currently are hitting .317, which ranks third among Big Ten teams. They also have had tremendous pitching to date, posting a 2nd best conference ERA of 4.84. The Wildcats come into this weekend's series as the league's worst hitting team, at .265. Their pitching is not much better with an ERA of 5.82. Unless the Wildcats can figure out a way to slow down the Blue and Orange's speedy and powerful lineup, I see this one going to the Illini easily.
-Indiana (10-4) travels to West Lafayette, IN to take on the Boilermakers of Purdue (5-9). The Hoosiers are coming off of a 2-1 weekend against the always tough Wolverines of Michigan. Purdue is looking to rebound after dropping 6 straight conference games to Ohio St. and Minnesota. The Hoosiers are 2nd in the Big Ten in hitting at .325, and sixth in pitching with an ERA of 5.68. Conversely, Purdue is fifth in hitting at .312, and ninth in pitching with an ERA of 5.93. With the recent success of Hoosiers starting pitcher Jake Arnett, and Indiana's talented arsenal of hitters facing a sub-par Purdue pitching staff, it seems hard to believe that the Boilermakers will fare any better than they have in the past two weekends, although I've been known to be wrong. Sometimes losing 6 straight conference games brings out the best in a team, right? We will see.
-The so far "under achieving) Michigan Wolverines (6-9) travel to Colombus, OH to face the Buckeyes of Ohio St. (11-4). The Wolverines are coming off of a 1-2 weekend against Indiana, while the Buckeyes are coming off of a 2-1 weekend at home against Northwestern. Michigan has been quite a surprise this season thus far. Even though they lost a lot of talented players due to graduation and the MLB draft, a team coached by Rich Maloney has and will continue to be picked to finish near the top of the Big Ten each year. The Buckeyes, on the other hand, are not much of a surprise; they are a top threat for the Big Ten crown as predicted. The Buckeyes come into this weekend hitting .330, which is the best team batting average in the Big Ten. They also have a strong pitching staff, which has posted an ERA of 5.45 this year. The Wolverines are hitting a mere .290 on the season. On the bright side, Michigan's pitching staff has been stellar as usual, compiling the Big Ten's third best ERA at 4.86. This series has huge implications of what is to come in the end of the Big Ten season. Ohio St. looks to be a lock into the Big Ten tournament, but more interestingly, Michigan has their work cut out for them if they want to keep their post-season dreams alive. For Michigan, it's crunch time. In my opinion, they need to win at least 2 out of 3 against the Buckeyes this weekend in order to stay afloat in the Big Ten. Knowing Michigan head coach Rich Maloney, the Wolverines will come into this weekend ready to play knowing their urgency, and will win the series this weekend.
-Iowa (3-11) travels to Minneapolis to take on the Golden Gophers of Minnesota (10-4). The Hawkeyes are coming off of a tough 3 game skid against Michigan St. at home. Minnesota comes into this weekend confidently after sweeping the Boilermakers in all three games at the Metrodome. The Hawkeyes are hitting .291 on the year, which is obviously below average, but not terrible. The problem lies in their pitching, which is last in the Big Ten with an ERA of 6.07. Conversely of this, the Gophers pitching staff continues to impress and sits atop of the Big Ten with an ERA of 4.42, led by their dominant duo of senior starters Chauncy Handran and Tom Buske. Offensively, the Gophers are fourth in the Big Ten, hitting .313 on the season. On paper, this one looks a bit one-sided, but let's not be fooled. The Hawkeyes hate losing, especially to the Gophers. This being said, I still think Minnesota will manage to take the series as their powerful lineup and consistent pitching will be too much for the Hawkeyes to swallow.
Wednesday's Big Ten Scores
Scores from tonight's non-conference Big Ten action:
Michigan St. 6 Game 1
E. Michigan 5
E. Michigan 6 Game 2
Michigan St. 1
Indiana 17
W. Illinois 2
Wisconsin-Milwaukee 7
Northwestern 2
Minnesota
South Dakota St. cancelled
Ohio St. 7
Akron 3
Penn St. 9
LaSalle 3
Creighton 12
Iowa 3
Indiana St. 11
Illinois 10
Overall the Big Ten went 4-4 tonight, with Minnesota's game vs. SDSU being cancelled due to potential inclement weather. Not very surprising that the Big Ten went below .500 during Tuesday and Wednesday's non-conference games against generally weaker opponents. It has been the trend this season for Big Ten teams to pitch and play a lot of younger players during the midweek games to gain valuable experience and keep arms fresh which didn't have a chance to toe the mound during the previous Big Ten weekend. This quite clearly could be the reason of the so-so performances of the Big Ten during the midweek this year. Another factor could be the transition from 4-game conference series to 3-game conference series this year. As a result of this switch, now Big Ten teams must schedule more midweek games in order to fulfill a full schedule. The players could be still adjusting to having to play 2 games during the week, while other teams are used to this because they have and still play the traditional 3-game conference series.
Stay tuned for a preview of this weekend's conference matchups.
Michigan St. 6 Game 1
E. Michigan 5
E. Michigan 6 Game 2
Michigan St. 1
Indiana 17
W. Illinois 2
Wisconsin-Milwaukee 7
Northwestern 2
Minnesota
South Dakota St. cancelled
Ohio St. 7
Akron 3
Penn St. 9
LaSalle 3
Creighton 12
Iowa 3
Indiana St. 11
Illinois 10
Overall the Big Ten went 4-4 tonight, with Minnesota's game vs. SDSU being cancelled due to potential inclement weather. Not very surprising that the Big Ten went below .500 during Tuesday and Wednesday's non-conference games against generally weaker opponents. It has been the trend this season for Big Ten teams to pitch and play a lot of younger players during the midweek games to gain valuable experience and keep arms fresh which didn't have a chance to toe the mound during the previous Big Ten weekend. This quite clearly could be the reason of the so-so performances of the Big Ten during the midweek this year. Another factor could be the transition from 4-game conference series to 3-game conference series this year. As a result of this switch, now Big Ten teams must schedule more midweek games in order to fulfill a full schedule. The players could be still adjusting to having to play 2 games during the week, while other teams are used to this because they have and still play the traditional 3-game conference series.
Stay tuned for a preview of this weekend's conference matchups.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Tonight's Big Ten Scores
Hello,
Here are a few scores from the non-conference games involving Big Ten schools.
Miami (OH) 9
Indiana 6
Illinois 5
Southern Illinois 1
Northern Iowa 9
Iowa 3
St. Thomas (Division 3) 6
Minnesota 3
Eastern Michigan
Michigan postponed
North Central
Northwestern cancelled
Penn St.
Pittsburgh cancelled
In tonight's action we saw the Big Ten go 1-3, with three games cancelled or postponed. Most notably, Minnesota took a tough loss to St. Thomas, a Division-3 school, 6-3. From what it sounds like, St. Thomas' bats were red hot, and Minnesota was playing a few backups and throwing a few of their less competitive pitchers, so this isn't quite what you would call a "huge upset". Stay tuned for coverage of this weekend's Big Ten action.
Here are a few scores from the non-conference games involving Big Ten schools.
Miami (OH) 9
Indiana 6
Illinois 5
Southern Illinois 1
Northern Iowa 9
Iowa 3
St. Thomas (Division 3) 6
Minnesota 3
Eastern Michigan
Michigan postponed
North Central
Northwestern cancelled
Penn St.
Pittsburgh cancelled
In tonight's action we saw the Big Ten go 1-3, with three games cancelled or postponed. Most notably, Minnesota took a tough loss to St. Thomas, a Division-3 school, 6-3. From what it sounds like, St. Thomas' bats were red hot, and Minnesota was playing a few backups and throwing a few of their less competitive pitchers, so this isn't quite what you would call a "huge upset". Stay tuned for coverage of this weekend's Big Ten action.
Big Ten Standings
Here are the Big Ten Standings as of 04/28/09:
Ohio State 11-4
Illinois 11-4
Minnesota 10-4
Indiana 10-4
Michigan St. 8-7
Michigan 6-9
Purdue 5-9
Penn St. 5-10
Northwestern 3-10
Iowa 3-11
With 3 weekends left to go, it looks like we are going to be treated to a close finish for the 2009 Big Ten title. In case you didn't already know, the top 6 teams in the Big Ten recieve a spot in the Big Ten tournament which will be held at Huntington Park in Columbus, Ohio on May 20-23. Check in this weekend for updated scores and standings!
Ohio State 11-4
Illinois 11-4
Minnesota 10-4
Indiana 10-4
Michigan St. 8-7
Michigan 6-9
Purdue 5-9
Penn St. 5-10
Northwestern 3-10
Iowa 3-11
With 3 weekends left to go, it looks like we are going to be treated to a close finish for the 2009 Big Ten title. In case you didn't already know, the top 6 teams in the Big Ten recieve a spot in the Big Ten tournament which will be held at Huntington Park in Columbus, Ohio on May 20-23. Check in this weekend for updated scores and standings!
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