5-10 with 7 RBIs, including the game winning grand slam on Sunday and the game tying RBI single on Saturday was enough to get Doug the Player of the Week award for the 2nd time in his career. Congrats.
Texas Tech release
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
A-mazing
So I'm here to gladly eat my crow. Texas Tech, in dramatic fashion, beat the Missouri Tigers in two of the three games this weekend. Both wins for the Raiders came in the bottom of the 9th inning, a 3-2 win Saturday and a 15-11 win on Sunday.
Friday's game was a heartbreaker. Missouri's Aaron Crow did what Aaron Crow do. He shut out the Raiders for 8 innings, helping Missouri to a 1-0 win. Tech's starting pitcher, Nathan Karns, had his best outing of the season, giving up one run in the 1st inning and walking only a single batter, well below his season average.
Saturday's game would start off the same. Missouri scored one in the 1st, but was answered by the Raiders with a single score of their own. The game continued at 1-1, seeing great pitching from Tech's AJ Ramos and Missouri's Ian Berger, until a bases loaded, full count walk gave Missouri a 2-1 lead. It was a strike, by the way. Tech seemed destined to lose another 1 run game, until the 9th inning decided to be all drama-like. Monk Kreder's 1-out walk, followed by consecutive singles from Jason Seefeld and Doug Thennis tied the game at 2. With runners on 1st and 2nd, Tech LF Taylor Ashby ripped a single up the middle, making way for Jason Seefeld to score the winning run, albeit on a horrible slide that sidelined him for Sunday's game.
Sunday would be a goose of a different feather. Missouri's 4 run 1st inning paved the way for a 7-4 lead heading into the bottom of the 7th. Tech pieced together a 3-run rally to knot the game at 7. Missouri, being the #2 team in the nation, picked the 8th inning to score another 4 runs in an attempt to spit in the face of their hosting opponent. The Red Raiders would have none of their tomfoolery. A 2-run 8th inning kept Tech within reach of making my sunburn worthwhile. Tech reliever Zach Stewart held the Tigers in check in the 9th, bringing up the meat of Tech's lineup for the final at bat. A walk, single and a sacrifice bunt gave Tech runners on 2nd and 3rd with only 1 out. 2B Willie Rueda ripped a triple into left center to tie the game at 11. With the winning run on 3rd, and only 1 out, Missouri opted to load the bases, hoping for a double play to end the threat. Instead, Doug Thennis lifted a would be game-winning sacrifice fly into the gusting wind and over the left field wall for a walk-off grand slam. It was very dramatic. Tech won 15-11.
So, this weekend was huge. Not only does Tech finally put it together, but they avoid losing their 3rd straight conference series to open the year. Winning 2 of 3 against the best pitching staff in the nation also helps. The confidence from both the wins could be what the Raiders needed to turn their hard luck around into soft luck, assuming soft luck is the good kind that wins games.
Video of Thennis Grand Slam
On another note, Texas won their game against Nebraska, salvaging a win to put them at 5-4 in conference play. Their basketball team decided not to win, losing to Memphis by more than I care to write down. Stupid Memphis, with their free throws and make-out parties.
On a sad note, the starting QB for the Hub City Bulls, a semi-pro team that plays in Lubbock, suffered a broken neck on the first play from scrimmage in Saturday's game against the opponent (I honestly never knew who they were playing). I haven't heard any updates on his condition, but it did not look good at all. Prayers are with him and his family. The Bulls won 21-16 to go to 2-0.
Friday's game was a heartbreaker. Missouri's Aaron Crow did what Aaron Crow do. He shut out the Raiders for 8 innings, helping Missouri to a 1-0 win. Tech's starting pitcher, Nathan Karns, had his best outing of the season, giving up one run in the 1st inning and walking only a single batter, well below his season average.
Saturday's game would start off the same. Missouri scored one in the 1st, but was answered by the Raiders with a single score of their own. The game continued at 1-1, seeing great pitching from Tech's AJ Ramos and Missouri's Ian Berger, until a bases loaded, full count walk gave Missouri a 2-1 lead. It was a strike, by the way. Tech seemed destined to lose another 1 run game, until the 9th inning decided to be all drama-like. Monk Kreder's 1-out walk, followed by consecutive singles from Jason Seefeld and Doug Thennis tied the game at 2. With runners on 1st and 2nd, Tech LF Taylor Ashby ripped a single up the middle, making way for Jason Seefeld to score the winning run, albeit on a horrible slide that sidelined him for Sunday's game.
Sunday would be a goose of a different feather. Missouri's 4 run 1st inning paved the way for a 7-4 lead heading into the bottom of the 7th. Tech pieced together a 3-run rally to knot the game at 7. Missouri, being the #2 team in the nation, picked the 8th inning to score another 4 runs in an attempt to spit in the face of their hosting opponent. The Red Raiders would have none of their tomfoolery. A 2-run 8th inning kept Tech within reach of making my sunburn worthwhile. Tech reliever Zach Stewart held the Tigers in check in the 9th, bringing up the meat of Tech's lineup for the final at bat. A walk, single and a sacrifice bunt gave Tech runners on 2nd and 3rd with only 1 out. 2B Willie Rueda ripped a triple into left center to tie the game at 11. With the winning run on 3rd, and only 1 out, Missouri opted to load the bases, hoping for a double play to end the threat. Instead, Doug Thennis lifted a would be game-winning sacrifice fly into the gusting wind and over the left field wall for a walk-off grand slam. It was very dramatic. Tech won 15-11.
So, this weekend was huge. Not only does Tech finally put it together, but they avoid losing their 3rd straight conference series to open the year. Winning 2 of 3 against the best pitching staff in the nation also helps. The confidence from both the wins could be what the Raiders needed to turn their hard luck around into soft luck, assuming soft luck is the good kind that wins games.
Video of Thennis Grand Slam
On another note, Texas won their game against Nebraska, salvaging a win to put them at 5-4 in conference play. Their basketball team decided not to win, losing to Memphis by more than I care to write down. Stupid Memphis, with their free throws and make-out parties.
On a sad note, the starting QB for the Hub City Bulls, a semi-pro team that plays in Lubbock, suffered a broken neck on the first play from scrimmage in Saturday's game against the opponent (I honestly never knew who they were playing). I haven't heard any updates on his condition, but it did not look good at all. Prayers are with him and his family. The Bulls won 21-16 to go to 2-0.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Tech sets up for battle with #2 Missouri
Tomorrow marks the first game of the 3 game series between Texas Tech and #2 Missouri at Dan Law Field in Lubbock. The only positives I see right now is that Tech is getting their harder series done with first. Already gone is Texas A&M and Texas, so that leaves the easier part of the conference schedule after this weekend. Unfortunately, Missouri is coming off a weekend that saw them allow only 2 runs on 8 hits against 14th ranked Baylor, shuting out the Bears twice.
Missouri is stacked on the mound. SP Aaron Crow is possibly the best pitcher in the Big 12, and combines with SPs Kyle Gibson and Ian Berger to give Missouri one of the top rotations in the nation. In 5 starts, Crow is 5-0 with a 1.03 ERA and 2 complete game shutouts. In his 35 innings, he has struck out 51 batters and walked only 7. Crow will face off against troubled Tech pitcher Nate Karns on Friday. AJ Ramos and Ian Berger will pitch Saturday's contest, while Sunday belongs to Chad Bettis and Kyle Gibson.
Offensively, Missouri is led by Jacob Priday and Aaron Senne. Senne is tied for 2nd in the Big 12 in home runs with 6, and trails only Roger Kieschnick (TTU) and Brandon Belt (UT) in RBIs, with 32. Priday leads the Tigers with a .387 average and 7 doubles.
The only true weakness in Missouri's armor seems to be their baserunning, being thrown out 10 times in 27 stolen base attempts. This probably won't become a factor in the series, due to their superb ability to do everything else.
I don't see this being a good weekend for the Red Raiders. Crow average 13 Ks per game, while Tech seems to like striking out with runners in scoring position. I predict a sweep for the Tigers.
Missouri is stacked on the mound. SP Aaron Crow is possibly the best pitcher in the Big 12, and combines with SPs Kyle Gibson and Ian Berger to give Missouri one of the top rotations in the nation. In 5 starts, Crow is 5-0 with a 1.03 ERA and 2 complete game shutouts. In his 35 innings, he has struck out 51 batters and walked only 7. Crow will face off against troubled Tech pitcher Nate Karns on Friday. AJ Ramos and Ian Berger will pitch Saturday's contest, while Sunday belongs to Chad Bettis and Kyle Gibson.
Offensively, Missouri is led by Jacob Priday and Aaron Senne. Senne is tied for 2nd in the Big 12 in home runs with 6, and trails only Roger Kieschnick (TTU) and Brandon Belt (UT) in RBIs, with 32. Priday leads the Tigers with a .387 average and 7 doubles.
The only true weakness in Missouri's armor seems to be their baserunning, being thrown out 10 times in 27 stolen base attempts. This probably won't become a factor in the series, due to their superb ability to do everything else.
I don't see this being a good weekend for the Red Raiders. Crow average 13 Ks per game, while Tech seems to like striking out with runners in scoring position. I predict a sweep for the Tigers.
Tech Football updates
The NCAA has cleared transfer DT Chris Perry to play in the fall. Perry, who transferred from Miami, sat out last season with a knee injury. Perry will likely battle for a starting position with incumbents Colby Whitlock and Rajon Henley. The addition of Perry will help Tech in the middle, a position that gave Tech troubles last season against the run.
DMN
Tech began their spring practices on Wednesday. Some positin changes have taken place already, according to reports. So. LB Brian Duncan has been moved from the outside to the middle, his position in high school. LA Reed has been moved from WR to S. His production at WR last year was dismal, while his hitting ability on special teams was tops on the team. This move could help out a lot if Reed can make the adjustment to defense. RB Jarred Flannel, a RS Fr. has moved to CB. He will battle for the starting spot opposite Jamar Wall, but won't likely get it.
Also back in action was WR Todd Walker, a former HS All-American from Pflugerville who sat out last season with an injury.
Fox 34 Video
DMN
Tech began their spring practices on Wednesday. Some positin changes have taken place already, according to reports. So. LB Brian Duncan has been moved from the outside to the middle, his position in high school. LA Reed has been moved from WR to S. His production at WR last year was dismal, while his hitting ability on special teams was tops on the team. This move could help out a lot if Reed can make the adjustment to defense. RB Jarred Flannel, a RS Fr. has moved to CB. He will battle for the starting spot opposite Jamar Wall, but won't likely get it.
Also back in action was WR Todd Walker, a former HS All-American from Pflugerville who sat out last season with an injury.
Fox 34 Video
Thursday, March 20, 2008
My worlds collide today
So today kicks off the annual baseball series between Texas Tech and the University of Texas. I am always at a loss whenever this day arrives. I'm a student of one school, and a lifelong fan of the other. Either way, I win, but I also lose. Usually though, I'm obliged to root for the Red Raiders, since I'm paying them.
So here we go. #13 in the Nation vs. #7 in the Big 12. I wonder how this will turn out. From an unbiased standpoint, I will have to say that the Longhorns will take 2 of the 3 games. The inconsistent pitching that has been plaguing the Tech starters will haunt them against the able-hitting Longhorns.
Tech's best hope is a to play mistake-free baseball. This means no base running blunders, no errors and no free passes. If all of those fall into place, Tech can easily overcome the Longhorns and win the series. The best chance for Tech is Saturday, when Chad Bettis takes the mound. Bettis is a perfect 3-0 in 4 starts with a 3.25 ERA. He stiffled the Aggie offense on Sunday to help avoid a sweep in College Station, and could easily do the same in Lubbock.
For the Longhorns to win, they will have to play their brand of baseball. Dan Law Field is perfectly designed for Augieball. A decent bunt on astroturf is an amazing bunt on fieldturf. Jordan Danks, Travis Tucker and Michael Torres could be the three best weapons for Texas this week. A leadoff single can easily turn into a runner on 2nd with 1 out, a scenario that has always been positive for the 5-time National Champs.
So here we go. #13 in the Nation vs. #7 in the Big 12. I wonder how this will turn out. From an unbiased standpoint, I will have to say that the Longhorns will take 2 of the 3 games. The inconsistent pitching that has been plaguing the Tech starters will haunt them against the able-hitting Longhorns.
Tech's best hope is a to play mistake-free baseball. This means no base running blunders, no errors and no free passes. If all of those fall into place, Tech can easily overcome the Longhorns and win the series. The best chance for Tech is Saturday, when Chad Bettis takes the mound. Bettis is a perfect 3-0 in 4 starts with a 3.25 ERA. He stiffled the Aggie offense on Sunday to help avoid a sweep in College Station, and could easily do the same in Lubbock.
For the Longhorns to win, they will have to play their brand of baseball. Dan Law Field is perfectly designed for Augieball. A decent bunt on astroturf is an amazing bunt on fieldturf. Jordan Danks, Travis Tucker and Michael Torres could be the three best weapons for Texas this week. A leadoff single can easily turn into a runner on 2nd with 1 out, a scenario that has always been positive for the 5-time National Champs.
Tech and Okie State close to Dallas game?
It seems that this ongoing drama is taking yet another exciting turn. Hopefully, this is a turn for the better. According to Texas Tech AD Gerald Myers, it seems that the game is a go, except for deciding where it will be played. The two options on the table are the dilapidated, yet renovated Cotton Bowl in Fair Park, or the monstrosity that is slowly growing south of Interstate 30 in Arlington. Which stadium would be better?
The Cotton Bowl, originally the Fair Park Bowl, has been sitting in South Dallas since 1934. As historic as the stadium is (Cotton Bowl game, Texas/OU, Styx concerts), it is also one of the most outdated facilities that I have ever been to. The bathroom setup at Oso Little League in Corpus Christi, Texas was more uriner-friendly than the enormous lines that await you inside the State Fair's centerpiece. Now, with the new renovations that are bumping the seating from 76,000 to 92,107, the bathroom problems could be fixed, so that helps out the Cotton Bowl. Getting to the Cotton Bowl (and subsequently leaving) are seemingly nightmares. I sat in traffic longer than I sat in the Cotton Bowl all 3 times I've seen a game there (2002 and 2003 Red River Shootout, 2006 Cotton Bowl). So the Cotton Bowl is not in a bad location and has plenty of seats, but the traffic problems are a huge sad face sticker on their report card.
The "Sponsor to Come Later" Dallas Cowboys Stadium would be ready by the game's planned start date in 2009. It will be state-of-the-art and dwarf any building I've ever seen in person. It is currently planned to hold only 80,000, but honestly, when was the last time a Tech or OSU home game came close to 80,000? Parking and the such shouldn't be a problem, thanks to the location of the stadium. Plus, being between Fort Worth and Dallas, and in Arlington increase the amount of adequate hotel rooms for fans. This is a huge plus. Did I mention that it is state-of-the-art? Personally, I think it is hard to go wrong with a $1 billion plus stadium.
My vote goes to Jerry World. I think it will be a great option for both teams to play in a major venue, and the central location helps out a lot. Plus, I have been to the Cotton Bowl, but haven't been to Jerry World (duh). Although I did drive past it on Saturday afternoon, and was simply mesmerized by the enormity of it.
This whole scenario sits very well with me. We are finally getting a game in Dallas, against a team that will make it a fun event. I hate OSU more than I hate 8 of the other schools in the conference, plus, with the Tech fanbase in the metroplex, there is no way this will fail. Look at the TCU and SMU games over the past 2 seasons (with myself in attendance) and try and estimate what percentage of those crowds donned Scarlet and Black (hint, more than 50%).
The added revenue from this game will far surpass the paultry amount we get every other year from hosting the game in Lubbock. Sure, it will hurt the economy a bit, but in the long run could improve the overall talent of the team through recruiting, which could help in wins, which aides attendance, which begats profit for local businesses. Problem solved through a PROACTIVE solutin, rather than our typical reactive route.
Avalance-Journal
Jerry World
Cotton Bowl
The Cotton Bowl, originally the Fair Park Bowl, has been sitting in South Dallas since 1934. As historic as the stadium is (Cotton Bowl game, Texas/OU, Styx concerts), it is also one of the most outdated facilities that I have ever been to. The bathroom setup at Oso Little League in Corpus Christi, Texas was more uriner-friendly than the enormous lines that await you inside the State Fair's centerpiece. Now, with the new renovations that are bumping the seating from 76,000 to 92,107, the bathroom problems could be fixed, so that helps out the Cotton Bowl. Getting to the Cotton Bowl (and subsequently leaving) are seemingly nightmares. I sat in traffic longer than I sat in the Cotton Bowl all 3 times I've seen a game there (2002 and 2003 Red River Shootout, 2006 Cotton Bowl). So the Cotton Bowl is not in a bad location and has plenty of seats, but the traffic problems are a huge sad face sticker on their report card.
The "Sponsor to Come Later" Dallas Cowboys Stadium would be ready by the game's planned start date in 2009. It will be state-of-the-art and dwarf any building I've ever seen in person. It is currently planned to hold only 80,000, but honestly, when was the last time a Tech or OSU home game came close to 80,000? Parking and the such shouldn't be a problem, thanks to the location of the stadium. Plus, being between Fort Worth and Dallas, and in Arlington increase the amount of adequate hotel rooms for fans. This is a huge plus. Did I mention that it is state-of-the-art? Personally, I think it is hard to go wrong with a $1 billion plus stadium.
My vote goes to Jerry World. I think it will be a great option for both teams to play in a major venue, and the central location helps out a lot. Plus, I have been to the Cotton Bowl, but haven't been to Jerry World (duh). Although I did drive past it on Saturday afternoon, and was simply mesmerized by the enormity of it.
This whole scenario sits very well with me. We are finally getting a game in Dallas, against a team that will make it a fun event. I hate OSU more than I hate 8 of the other schools in the conference, plus, with the Tech fanbase in the metroplex, there is no way this will fail. Look at the TCU and SMU games over the past 2 seasons (with myself in attendance) and try and estimate what percentage of those crowds donned Scarlet and Black (hint, more than 50%).
The added revenue from this game will far surpass the paultry amount we get every other year from hosting the game in Lubbock. Sure, it will hurt the economy a bit, but in the long run could improve the overall talent of the team through recruiting, which could help in wins, which aides attendance, which begats profit for local businesses. Problem solved through a PROACTIVE solutin, rather than our typical reactive route.
Avalance-Journal
Jerry World
Cotton Bowl
Thursday, March 13, 2008
End of season review, Texas Tech fan style.
Well, it wouldn't be a risky reach to say that the Texas Tech basketball season is over, and thank God it is. Now, there might be an NIT appearance in store for the Red Raiders, but that's basically an insult anywhere outside of College Station (oh snap!!1).
It was an entertaining season, to say the most. High expectations at first turned into a slow and steady downward spiral that was momentarily stopped with a win against high-ranked Texas, and ended again with a 2 game losing streak to finally put the Raiders down for the count.
We began the season with The General at the helm, doing his same old song and dance, and ended the year with a glimmer of hope that his son can emulate at least half of what Bobby was able to do in his career. Stumbles against Centenary and Sam Houston State stung the most, even more than the 44 and 58 point losses to Texas A&M and Kansas. At least Kansas and Texas A&M had the personnel and resume to hand over those types of defeats to the oft out-matched group from Lubbock.
The most pleasant surprises were the emergence of the whitest basketball shooter since Brandy Perryman lit up the Erwin Center. Yes, Alan Voskuil, the unsuspecting shooting guard who made quite a name for himself with his accurate shooting and Dawson's Creek-esque looks. Voskuil made good on exactly 50% of his 3-pointers (68-136, including today's game against OSU). Voskuil will have to be a focal point next year, as teams will probably que up on him to limit his production on wide open shots.
Another reason to not walk away with a frowny face is the play of a few newcomers. Freshmen John Roberson and Mike Singletary showed glimpses of All-Conference calibur play, while transfer Trevor Cook was a solid candidate for All-Lubbock. With Roberson taking control of the offense after a good season under his belt, there is hope. He showed great poise in the motion offense, hitting 40% from beyond the arc, and finishing 3rd on the team with 12.2 points per game.
Singletary looked like a third-world PJ Tucker. He could've been a PJ Tucker clone with the right coaching philosophy, but we can't get everything we want. He showed glimpses of offensive goodness (not greatness) with his 7.3 points in varying amounts of playing time. His 2.9 rebounds per game were "good enough" for 4th on the team.
All I can really say about this season is that I'm very sad to see Martin Zeno leaving. He played his heart and soul out for 4 very good years, never complaining and always being ready to play. He is the kind of person that everyone should want on their team. I'm also hoping that, in true Texas Tech fashion, we can truly "wait for next year." We return 3.5 starters (I honestly don't even know who would qualify as starters on this club) and only lose 2.5 players (Rizvic still has half a year of eligibility, Longar.) Pat Knight has also gained commitments from 5 players, 2 in the JuCo ranks, who could contribute immediately or be the next Ricardo De Bem.
So, in closing; this year was subpar. We lost games we shouldn't have and won games we shouldn't have. We almost upset 3 top 10 teams, but could only muster out wins against 2 of them. We lost to 2 schools who are smaller than my high school class, and lost by the largest margin in Tech history, twice, within a week, sandwiched around a win against Texas. The best I can predict next year is that we will be a team that will either run you out of the building, or absolutely crash under the pressure of having to rebound and shoot. Regardless, we will still beat A&M in Lubbock. Wreck 'Em!
Incoming Recruits ... Plus One!
It was an entertaining season, to say the most. High expectations at first turned into a slow and steady downward spiral that was momentarily stopped with a win against high-ranked Texas, and ended again with a 2 game losing streak to finally put the Raiders down for the count.
We began the season with The General at the helm, doing his same old song and dance, and ended the year with a glimmer of hope that his son can emulate at least half of what Bobby was able to do in his career. Stumbles against Centenary and Sam Houston State stung the most, even more than the 44 and 58 point losses to Texas A&M and Kansas. At least Kansas and Texas A&M had the personnel and resume to hand over those types of defeats to the oft out-matched group from Lubbock.
The most pleasant surprises were the emergence of the whitest basketball shooter since Brandy Perryman lit up the Erwin Center. Yes, Alan Voskuil, the unsuspecting shooting guard who made quite a name for himself with his accurate shooting and Dawson's Creek-esque looks. Voskuil made good on exactly 50% of his 3-pointers (68-136, including today's game against OSU). Voskuil will have to be a focal point next year, as teams will probably que up on him to limit his production on wide open shots.
Another reason to not walk away with a frowny face is the play of a few newcomers. Freshmen John Roberson and Mike Singletary showed glimpses of All-Conference calibur play, while transfer Trevor Cook was a solid candidate for All-Lubbock. With Roberson taking control of the offense after a good season under his belt, there is hope. He showed great poise in the motion offense, hitting 40% from beyond the arc, and finishing 3rd on the team with 12.2 points per game.
Singletary looked like a third-world PJ Tucker. He could've been a PJ Tucker clone with the right coaching philosophy, but we can't get everything we want. He showed glimpses of offensive goodness (not greatness) with his 7.3 points in varying amounts of playing time. His 2.9 rebounds per game were "good enough" for 4th on the team.
All I can really say about this season is that I'm very sad to see Martin Zeno leaving. He played his heart and soul out for 4 very good years, never complaining and always being ready to play. He is the kind of person that everyone should want on their team. I'm also hoping that, in true Texas Tech fashion, we can truly "wait for next year." We return 3.5 starters (I honestly don't even know who would qualify as starters on this club) and only lose 2.5 players (Rizvic still has half a year of eligibility, Longar.) Pat Knight has also gained commitments from 5 players, 2 in the JuCo ranks, who could contribute immediately or be the next Ricardo De Bem.
So, in closing; this year was subpar. We lost games we shouldn't have and won games we shouldn't have. We almost upset 3 top 10 teams, but could only muster out wins against 2 of them. We lost to 2 schools who are smaller than my high school class, and lost by the largest margin in Tech history, twice, within a week, sandwiched around a win against Texas. The best I can predict next year is that we will be a team that will either run you out of the building, or absolutely crash under the pressure of having to rebound and shoot. Regardless, we will still beat A&M in Lubbock. Wreck 'Em!
Incoming Recruits ... Plus One!
Monday, March 10, 2008
Big 12 Standings (3/10)
BIG 12 STANDINGS (3/10)
Texas Tech and Texas both had their games today rained out. No make-up dates have been announced for the Texas game, while the Texas Tech game has been canceled.
| TEAM | W | L | WIN % | STREAK | LAST 10 |
| #12 Baylor | 10 | 1 | 0.909 | W3 | 9-1 |
| Oklahoma | 12 | 2 | 0.857 | W9 | 9-1 |
| #14 Missouri | 9 | 2 | 0.818 | W4 | 8-2 |
| Nebraska | 9 | 2 | 0.818 | W8 | 9-1 |
| #23 Texas A&M | 11 | 3 | 0.786 | W2 | 9-1 |
| #25 Oklahoma State | 9 | 3 | 0.750 | L1 | 7-3 |
| #10 Texas | 9 | 4 | 0.692 | L2 | 6-4 |
| Kansas | 8 | 5 | 0.615 | W6 | 7-3 |
| Texas Tech | 7 | 6 | 0.538 | W1 | 6-4 |
| Kansas State | 6 | 6 | 0.500 | W3 | 6-4 |
Texas Tech and Texas both had their games today rained out. No make-up dates have been announced for the Texas game, while the Texas Tech game has been canceled.
Kieschnick named Big 12 Player of the Week (March 10th)
Phillips 66 and the Big 12 announced that Roger Kieschnick has been named their Player of the Week for March 10th. Kieschnick had 4 home runs and 11 RBIs in 5 games, while batting .524.
Kieschnick is currently hitting .429 (T5th in Big 12) with 7 home runs (1st), 24 RBIs (1st) and a 1.000 SLG percentage (1st). His 16 extra base hits are also #1 in the Big 12.
Big 12 release
Kieschnick is currently hitting .429 (T5th in Big 12) with 7 home runs (1st), 24 RBIs (1st) and a 1.000 SLG percentage (1st). His 16 extra base hits are also #1 in the Big 12.
Big 12 release
Texas Tech wins 2 out of 3 in San Marcos, final game rained out
Well, today's game against Texas State has been rained out. Nothing bad since it gives the guys a day off before playing in Albuquerque tomorrow.
Tech managed to take both game against Northern Illinois this weekend, but lost their contest against the Texas State Bobcats. Saturday's game against the Huskies was a good showing for the Red Raiders. AJ Ramos finally pitched a game where the run support was more than one run, and picked up his first win on the year. Tech's bats were alive, and accounted for 11 total hits in the 11-5 victory. The one bad note is the pitchers' control issues. 2 Tech pitchers combined for 5 HBPs and a wild pitch with 4 walks to boot. Of those 9 free passes, it allowed NIU to add 3 of their runs. The wild pitch also allowed a Huskie run to score. Let's hope Dan Spencer gets those control problems worked out.
The game against the Bobcats was the worst one for Tech this year. A 14-3 loss that saw 6 Tech starters go hitless, including Roger Kieshcnick and Taylor Ashby (11 game hitting streak ended). Unable to answer with big hits, all of Tech's run were scored via the sacrifice fly.
Game 3 on Sunday proved to be much better than game 2 was. Chad Bettis provided a strong starting effort for the Raiders, picking up his 2nd win of the year. He was backed by great hitting from Roger Kieschnick and Tanner Rindels, who both collected 3 hits. Kieschnick collected his 7th home run of the season on Sunday which is tops in the Big 12.
Tech managed to take both game against Northern Illinois this weekend, but lost their contest against the Texas State Bobcats. Saturday's game against the Huskies was a good showing for the Red Raiders. AJ Ramos finally pitched a game where the run support was more than one run, and picked up his first win on the year. Tech's bats were alive, and accounted for 11 total hits in the 11-5 victory. The one bad note is the pitchers' control issues. 2 Tech pitchers combined for 5 HBPs and a wild pitch with 4 walks to boot. Of those 9 free passes, it allowed NIU to add 3 of their runs. The wild pitch also allowed a Huskie run to score. Let's hope Dan Spencer gets those control problems worked out.
The game against the Bobcats was the worst one for Tech this year. A 14-3 loss that saw 6 Tech starters go hitless, including Roger Kieshcnick and Taylor Ashby (11 game hitting streak ended). Unable to answer with big hits, all of Tech's run were scored via the sacrifice fly.
Game 3 on Sunday proved to be much better than game 2 was. Chad Bettis provided a strong starting effort for the Raiders, picking up his 2nd win of the year. He was backed by great hitting from Roger Kieschnick and Tanner Rindels, who both collected 3 hits. Kieschnick collected his 7th home run of the season on Sunday which is tops in the Big 12.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Texas Tech and Illinois cancel series
Texas Tech had to cancel their 2nd home series of the year versus a team from Illinois. This weekend's cancellation isn't quite like the previous one, but it still translates to 4 more home games lost. The Illinois baseball team was unable to get a flight out of Chicago due to the heavy snow up there. Luckily, the Raiders were informed in time, and made a deal with the Texas State Bobcats to play in San Marcos this weekend. San Marcos was anticipating the same situation as Tech was facing because their opponent was Northern Illinois, but the Huskies managed to get a flight out of Chicago before the airport was shut down.
Tech plays UNI at 2 pm today, and Texas State at 7 pm. Tomorrow, Tech and UNI square off again at noon. The Raiders close out the series on Monday at 2:30 against the Bobcats.
So what does all of this mean? It means that the Raiders have lost 8 home games out of 10 so far on the year. This hurts financially, as the Raiders have had to make 2 weekend trips to the San Antonio area and haven't brought in money from the lost games. It also means that Tech's game against Texas on March 20th will mark their 3rd home game. In retrospect, Texas A&M will have played 21 home games in the same stretch.
Tuesday could prove dreary for the Raiders since they will have to play in Albuquerque for the second time this year after being in Central Texas. So they have 4 games in 3 days in San Marcos, and have to immediately get to New Mexico to play the Lobos the very next day. That's a lot of baseball and travel for the team.
Tech plays UNI at 2 pm today, and Texas State at 7 pm. Tomorrow, Tech and UNI square off again at noon. The Raiders close out the series on Monday at 2:30 against the Bobcats.
So what does all of this mean? It means that the Raiders have lost 8 home games out of 10 so far on the year. This hurts financially, as the Raiders have had to make 2 weekend trips to the San Antonio area and haven't brought in money from the lost games. It also means that Tech's game against Texas on March 20th will mark their 3rd home game. In retrospect, Texas A&M will have played 21 home games in the same stretch.
Tuesday could prove dreary for the Raiders since they will have to play in Albuquerque for the second time this year after being in Central Texas. So they have 4 games in 3 days in San Marcos, and have to immediately get to New Mexico to play the Lobos the very next day. That's a lot of baseball and travel for the team.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Friday, February 29, 2008
Catching up with 2006-2007 Texas recruits
After coming off their 6th National Championship in school history, Texas signed arguably one of their best classes ever, inking 16 players. Baseball America ranked the class as the 3rd best in the nation. Everything looked golden for the 2006 Longhorns, until the draft.
Of the 16 players, only 9 made it onto campus. Of those original 9, only 4 remain Longhorns in 2008. One member of the 2006 class, Brandon Belt, is now a Longhorn after spending his freshman season at San Jacinto College in Houston.
Here's the class breakdown, with an update for each player that I could track down:
Brandon Belt - University of Texas (San Jacinto College)
Belt opted to spend his freshman season at San Jacinto College after being drafted in the 11th round by the Boston Red Sox. Belt went 7-2 with a 2.82 ERA on the mound, and hit .421 with 57 RBIs and a team leading 9 home runs. Belt is now the starting 1B for Texas, after transferring between the 2007 and 2008 seasons.
Michael Demperio - University of Georgia (University of Texas)
Demperio was one of the 9 Longhorns who made it to campus. After recovering from the removal of a brain tumor prior to the 2007 season, Demperio appeared in 33 games for the Longhorns, starting 11 in the infield. He hit .156 with 4 RBIs and 4 stolen bases. After the season, Demperio elected to return back to his home state and play for the Georgia Bulldogs. He is currently their starting 2B, hitting .182 with 2 stolen bases.
Carmine Giardina - University of Central Florida
Giardina was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 28th round of the MLB draft. Instead of signing with the Red Sox or attending Texas, he opted to stay closer to home and enroll at University of Central Florida. Giardina made 8 appearances for the Knights in 2007, starting 4 contests. He accrued a record of 1-2 with a 4.97 ERA. He struck out 28 batters in his 25.1 innings. 2008 has not started well for Carmine. In his only appearance to date, he managed only 1/3 of an inning, giving up 2 runs for a 54.00 ERA.
Taylor Hammack - University of Houston (San Jacinto College)
Hammack's name was on the long list of pitchers who spurned Texas after pitching coach Tom Holiday left for the head gig at North Carolina State. After being drafted in the 46th round by the Houston Astros, Hammack enrolled at San Jacinto College. As a pitcher, Hammack pitched 16 innings, striking out 13 batters, with a 6.19 ERA. He had more success at the plate, hitting .301 with 4 home runs and 41 RBIs. After his freshman year, Hammack signed with the University of Houston, and now enjoys a starting role for the Cougars. Hammack has made 1 start this season, giving up only 1 run in 4 innings, striking out 6 batters. Hammack is scheduled to start against the Longhorns on Sunday in the Minute Maid Classic.
Nathan Karns - Texas Tech University (NC State)
Karns followed his recruiter, Tom Holiday, to North Carolina State, after being a 10th round pick of the Houston Astros. With the Wolfpack, Karns was 3-2 with a .267 ERA. He started 8 of the 9 games in which he pitched. Karns decided to transfer to Texas Tech University in the fall, with the arrival of former Oregon State pitching coach Dan Spencer in Lubbock. Karns has started one game for the Red Raiders, striking out 7 batters. In 4 innings, he has given up 3 runs, giving him a 6.75 ERA. Karns is slated to start on Saturday against Tennessee in the Minute Maid Classic.
Marcus Lemon - Texas Rangers
Lemon, son of former Detroit Tiger Chet Lemon, was scheduled to take over in the infield for the Longhorns. Unfortunately, the Texas Rangers had the same idea when they drafted him in the 4th round. Lemon chose to sign with the Rangers, and spent 2006 season with the Rangers' rookie league team in Arizona. Lemon hit .310 in 28 games. In 2007, Marcus was moved up to Single A with the Clinton Lumberjacks. he finished the season hitting .261 in 128 games. Lemon scored 62 runs with the Lumberjacks.
Kyle Lusson - University of Texas
Lusson spent his freshman year as a backup outfielder for the Longhorns, playing 15 games with 4 starts. Lusson completed the season with a .240 batting average. So far in 2008, Lusson has made 1 start for the #3 Longhorns. Kyle has a .500 average in 2 at bats.
Pat McCrory - University of Texas (Navarro College)
McCrory wasn't supposed to come in until 2008, but decided to leave Navarro a year early and join the Longhorns. He began 2007 as the starting SS for the Longhorns, but was eventually moved to the bullpen in favor of Josh Prince. As a batter, he hit .067 in 12 games. On the mound, he collected 1 win in 19 appearances with a 3.65 ERA. So far in 2008, he has hit 1 double in 2 at bats, but hasn't seen action as a pitcher.
Russell Moldenhauer - University of Texas
Moldenhauer came to Texas after getting drafted in the 3rd round by the Angels of Anaheim. In his first season, he saw extensive playing time as the Longhorns' DH. He hit .278 with 6 home runs and 32 RBIs on the year. In 2008, Moldenhauer has seen the field as a DH and in LF. He is currently batting .235 with 5 RBIs and a triple.
Josh Prince - Tulane University (University of Texas)
Prince came to Texas as Dooley Prince's younger brother. It didn't take long for him to be known as simply Josh Prince. Josh took over the SS job midway through the season, and went on to hit .371 for the Longhorns. After the season, he decided to take his game closer to his Louisiana home, and transferred to Tulane University. Prince is the Green Wave's starting SS this year, and is currently batting at a .133 clip with 1 RBI.
James Russell - Chicago Cubs (University of Texas)
James Russell came to Texas from Navarro College with pitching coach Skip Johnson. In 2007, he claimed a role as the #2 starter behind Adrian Alaniz. Russell's 8 wins were good for third on the Longhorns' staff. He maintained a 3.86 ERA with 91 strikeouts in 109.2 innings. Russell was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 14th round of the June draft. He signed with the Cubs 2 months later. Russell pitched 3 games in the Cubs' system in 2007, giving up no runs and 3 hits in 9 innings.
Clint Stubbs - Louisiana Tech (University of Texas)
Clint Stubbs came in as another Longhorn sibling legacy. His older brother, Drew Stubbs, needs no writeup. Clint was expected to see time as a speedy outfielder, but couldn't manage to get any starts behind Jordan Danks. Stubbs played in 12 games collecting 2 hits in 8 at bats. After the season, he opted to transfer to Louisiana Tech, where he is currently batting .400 in 6 games, 2 starts, with the Bulldogs.
Jess Todd - St. Louis Cardinals (University of Arkansas)
Todd was supposed to be another Navarro pitcher in burnt orange, but ended up in Razorback cardinal. With Arkansas, Todd finished the year 2nd in wins and 1st in strikeouts. His 9-3 record in 93.1 innings with 128 strikeouts combined with his 2.89 ERA to earn him the honor of being the 82nd player taken in the MLB draft (2nd round). With the Cardinals Organization, Todd pitched in 16 games, 7 starts, collecting a 4-1 record for the Batavia Muckdogs. He struck out 69 batters in 58.1 innings for the Muckdogs.
Travis Tucker - University of Texas (McLennan Community College)
Travis Tucker started all 63 games for Texas in 2007, hitting .307 with 34 RBIs. In 2008, Tucker has moved to 3rd base, and continued his strong play. As the Longhorns' lead off hitter, Tucker is hitting .222 with 6 runs scored.
Jordan Walden - Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (Grayson Community College)
Walden was supposed to be the gem of the 2006 class. As a senior who hit 99 mph on the radar, his draft stock flew up the charts. Many organizations figured that Walden may follow the lead of Jordan Danks and stick with his commitment, they were half right. Walden was taken in the 12th round by the Angels, but found his way to Grayson Community College to play for Viking head coach Dusty Hart. Walden was 9-2 for the Vikings in 11 starts, with a 1.85 ERA, earning NJCAA All-American honors. After the season, Walden took advantage of the MLB's draft and follow rule, signing with the Angels. Walden started 15 games for the Orem Owlz, going 1-1 with a 3.08 ERA.
Blake Williams - ?? (University of Texas)
Blake Williams made it to Texas as a freshman in 2007. He was redshirted by the staff, and never saw the mound. He isn't on the 2008 roster, and I cannot find anything about him transferring or quitting.
Of the 16 players, only 9 made it onto campus. Of those original 9, only 4 remain Longhorns in 2008. One member of the 2006 class, Brandon Belt, is now a Longhorn after spending his freshman season at San Jacinto College in Houston.
Here's the class breakdown, with an update for each player that I could track down:
Brandon Belt - University of Texas (San Jacinto College)
Belt opted to spend his freshman season at San Jacinto College after being drafted in the 11th round by the Boston Red Sox. Belt went 7-2 with a 2.82 ERA on the mound, and hit .421 with 57 RBIs and a team leading 9 home runs. Belt is now the starting 1B for Texas, after transferring between the 2007 and 2008 seasons.
Michael Demperio - University of Georgia (University of Texas)
Demperio was one of the 9 Longhorns who made it to campus. After recovering from the removal of a brain tumor prior to the 2007 season, Demperio appeared in 33 games for the Longhorns, starting 11 in the infield. He hit .156 with 4 RBIs and 4 stolen bases. After the season, Demperio elected to return back to his home state and play for the Georgia Bulldogs. He is currently their starting 2B, hitting .182 with 2 stolen bases.
Carmine Giardina - University of Central Florida
Giardina was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 28th round of the MLB draft. Instead of signing with the Red Sox or attending Texas, he opted to stay closer to home and enroll at University of Central Florida. Giardina made 8 appearances for the Knights in 2007, starting 4 contests. He accrued a record of 1-2 with a 4.97 ERA. He struck out 28 batters in his 25.1 innings. 2008 has not started well for Carmine. In his only appearance to date, he managed only 1/3 of an inning, giving up 2 runs for a 54.00 ERA.
Taylor Hammack - University of Houston (San Jacinto College)
Hammack's name was on the long list of pitchers who spurned Texas after pitching coach Tom Holiday left for the head gig at North Carolina State. After being drafted in the 46th round by the Houston Astros, Hammack enrolled at San Jacinto College. As a pitcher, Hammack pitched 16 innings, striking out 13 batters, with a 6.19 ERA. He had more success at the plate, hitting .301 with 4 home runs and 41 RBIs. After his freshman year, Hammack signed with the University of Houston, and now enjoys a starting role for the Cougars. Hammack has made 1 start this season, giving up only 1 run in 4 innings, striking out 6 batters. Hammack is scheduled to start against the Longhorns on Sunday in the Minute Maid Classic.
Nathan Karns - Texas Tech University (NC State)
Karns followed his recruiter, Tom Holiday, to North Carolina State, after being a 10th round pick of the Houston Astros. With the Wolfpack, Karns was 3-2 with a .267 ERA. He started 8 of the 9 games in which he pitched. Karns decided to transfer to Texas Tech University in the fall, with the arrival of former Oregon State pitching coach Dan Spencer in Lubbock. Karns has started one game for the Red Raiders, striking out 7 batters. In 4 innings, he has given up 3 runs, giving him a 6.75 ERA. Karns is slated to start on Saturday against Tennessee in the Minute Maid Classic.
Marcus Lemon - Texas Rangers
Lemon, son of former Detroit Tiger Chet Lemon, was scheduled to take over in the infield for the Longhorns. Unfortunately, the Texas Rangers had the same idea when they drafted him in the 4th round. Lemon chose to sign with the Rangers, and spent 2006 season with the Rangers' rookie league team in Arizona. Lemon hit .310 in 28 games. In 2007, Marcus was moved up to Single A with the Clinton Lumberjacks. he finished the season hitting .261 in 128 games. Lemon scored 62 runs with the Lumberjacks.
Kyle Lusson - University of Texas
Lusson spent his freshman year as a backup outfielder for the Longhorns, playing 15 games with 4 starts. Lusson completed the season with a .240 batting average. So far in 2008, Lusson has made 1 start for the #3 Longhorns. Kyle has a .500 average in 2 at bats.
Pat McCrory - University of Texas (Navarro College)
McCrory wasn't supposed to come in until 2008, but decided to leave Navarro a year early and join the Longhorns. He began 2007 as the starting SS for the Longhorns, but was eventually moved to the bullpen in favor of Josh Prince. As a batter, he hit .067 in 12 games. On the mound, he collected 1 win in 19 appearances with a 3.65 ERA. So far in 2008, he has hit 1 double in 2 at bats, but hasn't seen action as a pitcher.
Russell Moldenhauer - University of Texas
Moldenhauer came to Texas after getting drafted in the 3rd round by the Angels of Anaheim. In his first season, he saw extensive playing time as the Longhorns' DH. He hit .278 with 6 home runs and 32 RBIs on the year. In 2008, Moldenhauer has seen the field as a DH and in LF. He is currently batting .235 with 5 RBIs and a triple.
Josh Prince - Tulane University (University of Texas)
Prince came to Texas as Dooley Prince's younger brother. It didn't take long for him to be known as simply Josh Prince. Josh took over the SS job midway through the season, and went on to hit .371 for the Longhorns. After the season, he decided to take his game closer to his Louisiana home, and transferred to Tulane University. Prince is the Green Wave's starting SS this year, and is currently batting at a .133 clip with 1 RBI.
James Russell - Chicago Cubs (University of Texas)
James Russell came to Texas from Navarro College with pitching coach Skip Johnson. In 2007, he claimed a role as the #2 starter behind Adrian Alaniz. Russell's 8 wins were good for third on the Longhorns' staff. He maintained a 3.86 ERA with 91 strikeouts in 109.2 innings. Russell was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 14th round of the June draft. He signed with the Cubs 2 months later. Russell pitched 3 games in the Cubs' system in 2007, giving up no runs and 3 hits in 9 innings.
Clint Stubbs - Louisiana Tech (University of Texas)
Clint Stubbs came in as another Longhorn sibling legacy. His older brother, Drew Stubbs, needs no writeup. Clint was expected to see time as a speedy outfielder, but couldn't manage to get any starts behind Jordan Danks. Stubbs played in 12 games collecting 2 hits in 8 at bats. After the season, he opted to transfer to Louisiana Tech, where he is currently batting .400 in 6 games, 2 starts, with the Bulldogs.
Jess Todd - St. Louis Cardinals (University of Arkansas)
Todd was supposed to be another Navarro pitcher in burnt orange, but ended up in Razorback cardinal. With Arkansas, Todd finished the year 2nd in wins and 1st in strikeouts. His 9-3 record in 93.1 innings with 128 strikeouts combined with his 2.89 ERA to earn him the honor of being the 82nd player taken in the MLB draft (2nd round). With the Cardinals Organization, Todd pitched in 16 games, 7 starts, collecting a 4-1 record for the Batavia Muckdogs. He struck out 69 batters in 58.1 innings for the Muckdogs.
Travis Tucker - University of Texas (McLennan Community College)
Travis Tucker started all 63 games for Texas in 2007, hitting .307 with 34 RBIs. In 2008, Tucker has moved to 3rd base, and continued his strong play. As the Longhorns' lead off hitter, Tucker is hitting .222 with 6 runs scored.
Jordan Walden - Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (Grayson Community College)
Walden was supposed to be the gem of the 2006 class. As a senior who hit 99 mph on the radar, his draft stock flew up the charts. Many organizations figured that Walden may follow the lead of Jordan Danks and stick with his commitment, they were half right. Walden was taken in the 12th round by the Angels, but found his way to Grayson Community College to play for Viking head coach Dusty Hart. Walden was 9-2 for the Vikings in 11 starts, with a 1.85 ERA, earning NJCAA All-American honors. After the season, Walden took advantage of the MLB's draft and follow rule, signing with the Angels. Walden started 15 games for the Orem Owlz, going 1-1 with a 3.08 ERA.
Blake Williams - ?? (University of Texas)
Blake Williams made it to Texas as a freshman in 2007. He was redshirted by the staff, and never saw the mound. He isn't on the 2008 roster, and I cannot find anything about him transferring or quitting.
Spurs beat Mavs, Barry coming back
So the Spurs beat the Mavs last night by 3 points in an exciting finish (for Spurs fans). The game was incredibly close, and came down to the final shot. Unfortunately for Dallas, that shot was blocked by Bruce "Everyone Outside of San Antonio Hates Me" Bowen.
The Spurs won double when Brent Barry announced that he would resign with the Spurs after he clears waivers on Tuesday. Barry was included in the trade that brought Kurt Thomas to San Antonio, and will be cut by the Sonics.
Link
The Spurs won double when Brent Barry announced that he would resign with the Spurs after he clears waivers on Tuesday. Barry was included in the trade that brought Kurt Thomas to San Antonio, and will be cut by the Sonics.
Link
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Former players update
Longhorns
Michael Demperio hit a double in the first inning off Atlanta Braves' starter Charlie Morton in an exhibition with the MLB team on Wednesday. Demperio finished the day 1-3 with a double and strikeout. On the season for Georgia, Demperio is batting .182 through 3 games against highly ranked Arizona. He has started all 3 games at 2B, stolen 2 bases and been perfect in the field on 9 chances.
Josh Prince is batting .133 in 5 games for the Tulane Green Wave. Prince has been perfect at SS, not commiting and error in his 17 attempts.
Clint Stubbs has started 2 games and appeared in all 6 for the Bulldogs of Louisiana Tech. He is batting .400 in 10 at bats with 3 runs, 2 RBIs and a double.
Red Raiders
Geoff Byrns has started 3 of 4 games for the St. Mary's Gaels. He has a .400 average with 2 doubles, a triple and a home run. The Gael's are 3-1 since Geoff joined the squad.
Collin Auten has yet to appear in any of the 4 games TCU has played. Auten registered 5 saves in 21 appearances for the Red Raiders in 2007.
Michael Demperio hit a double in the first inning off Atlanta Braves' starter Charlie Morton in an exhibition with the MLB team on Wednesday. Demperio finished the day 1-3 with a double and strikeout. On the season for Georgia, Demperio is batting .182 through 3 games against highly ranked Arizona. He has started all 3 games at 2B, stolen 2 bases and been perfect in the field on 9 chances.
Josh Prince is batting .133 in 5 games for the Tulane Green Wave. Prince has been perfect at SS, not commiting and error in his 17 attempts.
Clint Stubbs has started 2 games and appeared in all 6 for the Bulldogs of Louisiana Tech. He is batting .400 in 10 at bats with 3 runs, 2 RBIs and a double.
Red Raiders
Geoff Byrns has started 3 of 4 games for the St. Mary's Gaels. He has a .400 average with 2 doubles, a triple and a home run. The Gael's are 3-1 since Geoff joined the squad.
Collin Auten has yet to appear in any of the 4 games TCU has played. Auten registered 5 saves in 21 appearances for the Red Raiders in 2007.
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