February 9, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
There is no better time than the anticipation to the first pitch of a brand new baseball season. Like clockwork, a group of guys return back to Atlanta from a hard fought fall and winter season in pursuit one unified goal. The team has the same formal the night before Super Bowl Sunday, and we now stand less than one week from the season. Like clockwork, everything seems to be coming together.
This year's Eagles' squad boasts many returning seniors, as well as a large class of newcomers to the Emory baseball family. With 10 freshmen, three transfers, and one new upperclassman, the youth are quickly getting acclimated. The hard work and persistence of these new players seems to not only show the strong direction of Emory's future, but also suggests how much potential this team has this year.
Eagles' Alumni - Where Are They Now: Did you know that Reed Harvey '03 & Justin Gordon '06 are now both in their first year at Emory Medical School.
Now whether you are upset that Peyton Manning is now a Super Bowl Champion, or you just can't handle the fact that the Dodgers don't play until April, get excited for yet another season of Emory Baseball.
Two familiar faces won't be with us this season, but it is important to mention their names and the support we have for both of them. Ryan Lollar and Griffin Baum owned home plate the past two years, as well as leading the team on and off the field. The Eagles' family will miss their game on the field, but hope to see them and their families down at Chappell Park sometime throughout the season. Carolyn & Pete and Barbara & Rich: we look forward to seeing you guys soon.
Beginning the first of five series', now it is time to explain to all the kids out there why this week's player, Pete Rose, should be in the Hall of Fame:
The all-time hit king isn't in because of his gambling issues. However, with rules like good sportsmanship & character involved in gaining admittance into the Hall of Fame, womanizers like Babe Ruth and racists like Ty Cobb seemed to have their shortcomings overlooked by voters, who have tried to use Rose as an example. One of the top five hitters of all-time deserves to be in the Hall of Fame, not to mention the fact that Rose played the game that all children should strive to mimic, earning the nickname of Charlie Hustle. He might have gambled, and worse, he might have lied about it, but his numbers and effort on the field is what makes him deserving of the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Our opening weekend series begins with Methodist as they travel to Chappell Park for a two game series. No matter what the weather brings us, it is important for us to jump out on the right foot towards a long and enjoyable season. No matter where home might be, we hope to see you sometime throughout the season at our home at Chappell Park.
February 19, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
Well, the Eagles are off and flying. Two in the books, and two wins under our belts heading into a fun, Rawlings Tournament Weekend.
From the diamond of Chappell Park, mirror images of one another occurred both Saturday and Sunday, with the same 3-2 scores and same hits for both teams. On Opening Day, Frank Pfister's 3 hits and Dave Hissey's 2 hits set the offensive tone early, scoring all three runs in the first three innings. Frank, Zander [Sotiriou], and CornDog [Tim Cournoyer] each contributed RBI singles. Congrats to Dan Molnar and Matt McDonough to become the first freshman to start opening day since three years ago to the day, when Taylor Gettinger and Justin Gordon started opening day in a 12-4 win over the University of the South on February 17, 2004.
In that game, Will Carr got the win, Andrew Pinckney and Gettinger added three hits, and Adam Schorr went four for four with three RBIs. How about that?
After taking the lead 3-2 in the bottom of the third, we held onto the lead the rest of the way, with Rich Babb closing the door to record his first save of the year, fifth of his career.
On Sunday, Ian Ganzer took the bump and delivered in a good way, going the distance while striking out eight batters. Offensively, Pfister and Hissey stayed hot at the plate, each contributing RBIs and two hits each. Joe Roth added two hits on the day.
Steve Bralver made his first start of his Eagles career, going two for four from the plate including his first ever Eagles' hit and a double to right field. With the scored tied at two in the bottom of the seventh, Brandon Custer led off the inning with a solo home run, the eventual game-winner, the first of his long Emory career. Congrats to BCust, and hope the wait was worth it!
Did you know that it took Brandon Custer 153 at bats to hit his first Emory home run. The Emory career record for most at bats until their first collegiate home run is Justin Gordon, who took 410 at bats before his first at Maryville last year. Honorable mention in second place is Paul Myslinski, who had 348 at bats before his first career home run during senior day at Chappell Park in 2004.
Shout out to Tommy Dugan and Jake Ornstein for making their first Eagle appearances on Sunday. Welcome to the show, baby!
We will take one week off with our "Who Should be in the Hall of Fame," feature, but don't worry, I've got a good one for next Monday.
Your 19th ranked Eagles are now 2-0 on the season, and will welcome York and Virginia Wesleyan this upcoming weekend during the annual Rawlings' Tournament. We usually have a great showing of families down at the field, and we wish everyone safe trips and look forward to seeing them very soon.
February 26, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
And the Oscar Goes to...
What better way to end a drama-filled weekend of close games and amazing storylines that with the 79th Annual Academy Awards live from Hollywood, California. And while Ellen hosted all the celebrities out on the west coast, your Eagles hosted family and friends from all over the country to an exciting 3 win-sweep of the Rawlings' Tournament.
And the Nominees for Best Introductory Appearance are:
-Adam Genn's first collegiate appearance throwing 1 1/3 innings of scoreless relief including 2 strikeouts leading to our final comeback victory versus York on Sunday.
-Andrew Carroll's game-tying RBI double in his first Eagles' at bat to tie the game in the bottom of the eighth inning.
-Will Gumm's 3 scoreless innings of relief in his first appearance, leading to his first collegiate victory in Saturday's victory over York
-Matt McDonough and Dan Molnar's first collegiate hits over the weekend, with Matt's on Saturday and Dan's on Sunday
-Michael Saleh's first Eagles' appearance at shortstop following a 4 run top of the ninth to help close out a 6-5 victory on Saturday
And the Oscar Goes to...Will Gumm's 3 scoreless innings of relief and win on Saturday. This first appearance propelled the team back to victory on Saturday, and set the tone with the entire team that comebacks like these are possible, eventually coming true again on Sunday.
And now for Did You Know? sponsored by Kenny Mayne.
Through 5 games, Brandon Custer and Steve Bralver are tied for the team lead in home runs with 1.
And the Nominees for Best Actor are:
- Steve Bralver's 6-11 weekend including 5 runs and 3 RBIs, capped off Sunday by his first Eagles' home run
- Frank Pfister's 5-14 weekend, 4 runs, 3 RBIs, and a game-tying 2 RBI hit followed by scoring the winning run during a 6-5 victory over York
- Joe Roth's 4-9 weekend with 4 RBIs, including the game winner with 2 outs in the ninth inning on Saturday versus York
- Bo Schill's 5-12 weekend with 4 RBIs, including a clutch RBI triple followed by a leadoff double on Sunday, with his hit leading to the eventual walk-off run
-Rich Babb's 3 scoreless innings of relief, including 1 win and 1 save.
And the Oscar Goes to...Bo Schill's 5-12 weekend. In a pivotal final game of the tournament, Bo not only helped continue an important rally in the bottom of the eighth by hitting a clutch RBI triple, followed by scoring the tying run, his tenth inning double helped propel the team to victory, with his spot scoring the eventually game-winning run.
On Sunday, your Los Angeles Lakers beat the Golden State Warriors 102-85.
And the Nominees for Best Screenplay:
- Matt McDonough's perfectly executed sacrifice bunt in the 10th inning on Saturday.
- Sacha Baron Cohen for "Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan."
- Tommy Dugan up at the plate on Sunday when Jake Ornstein scores the winning run on a wild pitch in the dirt
- 3 tournament wins, all comeback victories, to help capture the Rawlings' Tournament
- Freshman pitchers Will Gumm and Adam Genn coming up huge in their first outings
And the Oscar Goes to...3 comeback victories leading to Emory winning the Rawlings' Tournament. A team usually gets tested against adversity later on in the season and through playoffs to see how the respond, but this team showed heart and character by coming from behind in all three wins over the weekend. That means on the mound, in the field, on the base paths, and at the plate. A storyline like this really puts us in great shape.
One of the best parts of the weekend was some of the things off the field, which was seeing so many family and friends of Emory baseball from all over the country. Meeting freshman parents (McDonough, Ornstein, Saleh, Genn & cousin, Molnar, Baran, Katten), as well as seeing the old familiar faces (Pfisters, Shorts, Schills, Sotirious, Hisseys, Ma & Boy, Cunninghams, Vidals, Ganzers, Lollars, Lumsdens, Langbords, Coach Perez, Partins, & Chappells).
Another week in the books, with four games coming up this week, ending off with a 2 game series at Millsaps.
"I don't want to be a product of my environment. I want my environment to be a product of me." - Jack Nicholson, The Departed
March 6, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
It is midterm week at Emory, and we stand now just one week from Spring Break. However, before we party down in Sanford and battle for the UAA Championship, we take a look at three games in the week past, and look forward to four in the week ahead.
On Wednesday, we hosted Adrian College of Michigan who was visiting Atlanta on their early spring break. Making his first ever start was freshman Adam Genn, who looked anything but a rookie in 5 great innings, surrendering only four hits, no walks, and six strikeouts while not allowing a run. At the plate, Zander & Dan Molnar each had two hits and two RBIs, with Custer and young Matty McDonough each adding two hits apiece.
Julian Smith and Brian Cournoyer made their first appearances of the spring, each only allowing 1 hit without surrendering an earned run. With Brian pitching to start the eighth inning, it marked the first time brothers were playing in the same game since the Kramer brothers in the spring of 1994. Those are the same Kramer brothers who threw from pole to pole.
On Friday, March 2nd, it was the 18th birthday of Jamie ‘Dooker' Glushon.
After Adrian tied the score and Rich Babb stopped the bleeding, Alex Sotiriou collected his second hit and second RBI in a walkoff single in the bottom half of the ninth inning, scoring Jake Ornstein who scored the winning run for the second game in as many games. With that win, the hard & intimidating Babb collected his second win to go with two saves.
This being midterms week, it is time to buckle down and study. That is why I am working hard to study for four of my midterms in the following classes: PE Fitness Walking, Music of the 1960s, Fundamentals of Acting, and Making Effective Decisions. Luckily I don't have midterms in my NBA Organizations and NFL Sports Management classes.
The main event was a showdown with #13 Millsaps in Jackson, Mississippi on Saturday and Sunday. Not only would we be pushed to the limits on the field, we also had a chance to catch up with an old friend, and former Eagle, Kelly Melton.
Kelly was formerly a trainer at Emory who has moved on to train at Millsaps, and it was very good to see her during the senior class' last trip through Mississippi.
During Saturday's game, it was a hard fought battle that saw us fall behind 1-0 through six innings. In the seventh, after a leadoff Brandon Custer double, Bo Schill hit an RBI groundout to make things all square. In the eighth, we strung a few hits together with Zander, Hissey, Bralver, & Roth, followed by a sacrifice fly by Dan the Man, and we took a 5-1 lead. Babb came in throwing gas to close the door and a huge win to start the weekend. In the end, we collected two-hit games from Zander, Bralv, Frank & Joe, as well as three hits by Young Dave Hissey.
After a Steamroom dinner with the McDonoughs & Cunninghams, we settled in to prepare for our Sunday matchup (Todd Schill was also able to travel down and support the Eagles, and we thank him for his continued support).
And now for Did You Know? Sponsored by Kenny Mayne.
Did you know that the most home runs by an Eagles' team in a season is 50 in 1998, while the lowest total home runs by a team is 4 in 1991. The current Eagles are on pace to hit 11 home runs this season.
Well truth be said, Sunday was not much a nail biter as we suffered our first loss of the season, 12-2. However, although tough to handle, there were still some good parts to Sunday's game. It featured a first career start by Tommy Dugan, three assists and two putouts from ‘Sweet Hands' Michael Saleh, an RBI single in his first ever at bat by freshman Nick Wills, as well as first pitching appearances by Matt Katten, Robert Baran, and Scott Widyn, who all threw scoreless innings in relief, each with a strikeout.
With four games to go before spring break in Florida, it is important some steam behind us as we face four good teams before attending to our conference tournament. I especially look forward to seeing former Eagles' coach Bill Walkenbach as he brings his visiting Diplomats from Franklin & Marshall to Emory on Sunday.
"Sometimes when you win, you really lose. Sometimes when you lose, you really win. Sometimes when you win or lose, you actually tie. And sometimes when you tie, you actually win or lose." - Rosie Perez, "White Men Can't Jump
March 12, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
Bryce Taylor's Oregon, Ohio State, UCLA, and North Carolina. You heard it here first. These are the Final 4 Teams.
As March Madness begins this week, our own tournament also begins on Tuesday in Sanford, Florida. However, we were able to put together four straight wins heading down south.
On Tuesday, Anthony Vidal pitched 6 strong innings to lead us to a 6-2 victory over the Stormy Petrels. Behind a 3 strikeout and 0 walk performance, he was followed up by a three-inning shutout relief performance from freshman Adam Genn, picking up his first collegiate save of his Emory career. Hissey, Molnar, and McDonough led the offense with two hits apiece, while Cust, Frank, Bralv, and McD added RBIs. Freshman Dan Molnar added two RBIs, while Zander, Joe Joe, and Franklin added a hit apiece during the game.
And now for Did You Know? Sponsored by Kenny Mayne.
Did You Know that the most stolen bases in one game by one player at Emory is 4, tied by Josh Barrett (3/31/04), Mike Garvis (3/23/95), and Brad Wands (4/2/98).
On Wednesday, we defeated Bridgewater 6-1, filled with shutout 2 inning relief performances by Rich Babb and Ian Ganzer, who combined for 7 strikeouts in 4 innings. Strong bats continued at the plate with 2 hits from Molnar and Bralver, along with hits from Frank, Corny, and Zander. Big RBIs came from Hound Dog, Shades, and Hansel, with a two-spot from Crank. For all the kids reading this, make sure to do research to find out which player fits these nicknames, because we will have prizes later on this season.
Over the weekend, we were graced down at Chappell Park by many alumni of the baseball program, including Tom Mieczkowski, Steve Zaychik, Kris Herring, Bryan Langbord, Ryan Lumsden, & Michael Sayegh. Always great see Eagles return back to their homes, and teach the youngsters many things including flip strategy.
On Saturday, Ian ‘Terminator' Ganzer delivered the heat in a huge 1-0 victory over Christopher Newport. Seven shutout innings and five strikeouts later, he handed the ball off to Babbers who was perfect in two innings of work, along with 2 strikeouts. And, after the first shutout of the year, we all know what that means... PITCHER'S BATTING PRACTICE! At the plate, we were able to come through with our only run in the 8th inning after Frank singled (1 of his 3 hits of the day) and proceeded to steal both second and third base. Bo Schill came off the bench to hit an RBI groundout to give us the 1-0 lead, and Babb picked up his third win of the year. He is now 3-0 with 2 saves. How ‘bout that!
For all the young kids out there, here is a little advice from pitching guru Tom House:
"The most important pitch in baseball = next pitch. The best pitch in baseball = strike 1."
-Tom House, National Pitching Association
On Sunday, we welcomed former Eagles' coach Bill Walkenbach and his Diplomats of Franklin & Marshall, and the bats were able to go to work in an 11-1 victory. Hits from Molnar, Bralv, Zander, Matty, and perfect 2-2 Nick Wills, along with first ever multi-hit games from freshman Tommy Dugan and Michael Saleh, each having two hits with Tommy knocking in two as well. Joe Roth also added two hits, including a first inning 2-run home run, only 1 day before his 21st birthday. Leading the offense again was junior Frank Pfister, knocking in three runs while getting four hits on the day. His hot bat continues to propel our offense forward at this point in the season.
Eagles' fanatics around the country: Mark your calendars to visit Emory between March 30th and April 2nd. Friday we have a home game vs. LaGrange at 3 pm, Saturday we have the 2nd Annual Home Run Derby for Charity event followed by the Final Four that evening, Sunday we are down the street at 1 pm vs. Oglethorpe, and Monday night is the NCAA Championship, live from the Georgia Dome. Do it! Do it!
Tony V picked up his second win of the week, going 5 strong, allowing 1 run, and striking out 3. The rest of the staff provided 4 innings of shutout relief, from Brian ‘Beef' Cournoyer, Will Gummi Bears, Sam ‘Chief' Cunningham, Matt ‘Butters' Katten, and Julian ‘Kramer' Smith, son of Smitty. Special shout out to Sam Cunningham for his first ever pitching appearance at Emory during his five years here, and doing so in style with two strikeouts in his first ever appearance.
"Surely you can't be serious... I am serious... and don't call me Shirley." - Airplane, 1980
March 19, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
What if I told you that on the final day of the UAA Championships, there would be three teams tied at the start of the day for first place? What if I told you by the time UCLA had won their game back in California, there would be only one team in first place?
After a wild week of Spring Break, we returned home Saturday night as champions of the UAA Championship Tournament. Along the way we spent time with our families, made them nervous during crazy comeback wins, and ended our break back in Atlanta with an impressive 15-3 start under our belts.
This year, senior captain Mike Levin has been unable to play as a result of a horrible back injury that has sidelined him since the end of the fall season. However, he has shown his true leadership qualities by continuing to help and support his team in all aspects, using his baseball knowledge to help coach his teammates and friends during the season. Although we miss you playing out on the diamond, we are still lucky to have you as part of our team.
No matter what obstacles arose, we were able to put together a 4-2 tournament record behind some great play from our team. At the plate, we had some impressive outings off the bench, including a 3 for 5 tournament from Andrew Carroll, a 2 for 4 tournament from Michael Saleh, and a 1 for 2 tourney from Nick Wills, bumping his average up to .750 for the year. We also witnessed two first collegiate hits from freshman Jake Ornstein and Will Gumm. Jake hit an RBI single vs. Case on Friday, while Will hit an RBI single vs. Brandeis on day one.
On Thursday, former Eagle Dave Murchison graced us with his presence and support down at Sanford Stadium. On Friday night, Los Angeles Lakers' guard Kobe Bryant scored 65 points en route to an overtime victory 116-111 versus the Portland Trail Blazers.
During the week, Bo Schill, although bothered by injury, was able to step up an add a pinch hit RBI single vs. Brandeis, while freshman Matt McDonough threw two guys out stealing in the earlier game vs. Rochester.
And now for Did You Know? Sponsored by Kenny Mayne.
Did you know that sophomore catcher Tyler Short caught during both wins against Wash U, the same university where his older sister attends currently during her senior year. We hope that doesn't start any family quarrels now.
On the mound, the Eagles put together 4 good wins behind some solid outings, including breakthrough ones by some young kids. Matt Katten was able to throw four innings of relief in two games, while Will Gumm threw 3 1/3 shutout innings in his relief appearance. Adam Genn made his second collegiate start, and come back on two days rest to add in two shutout innings of relief. Brian ‘Beef' Cournoyer threw 5 shutout innings, including picking up his first career win vs. Case on Friday. Scott Widyn threw like a stud during the tourney, striking out six in two innings of relief.
As for some of the older guys, Julian Smith threw three great innings of relief to keep us in the game vs. Brandeis, including four strikeouts and giving up no hits. Seniors Tony Vidal and Sam Cunningham contributed their innings, combining to strikeout three guys in just over four innings of work. Ian Ganzer threw an impressive game vs. Wash U, striking out eight in 7 innings of work, before giving the ball to Rich Babb who threw two shutout innings of relief, leading to his fourth win of the season.
One of the best parts of the week is a chance to see all the family and friends of the Emory baseball who flew and drove from all over the country to see their favorite team play at Sanford Memorial Stadium. The team appreciates as all the parents and families supporting us so much, and thanks them for traveling far and wide to support us and spend time with us.
One of the more exciting parts of the tournament was our day two comeback vs. Wash U, where down 4-0 after three innings, we closed within 1 run in the top of the ninth. After consecutive walks and a Tommy Dugan single, we had bases loaded and one out with Steve Bralver at the plate. On a ball that scooted away from the catcher, freshman Matt McDonough hurried home to score the tying run, before Young Dave Hissey scored the winning run as the catcher threw away the throw. The comeback win provides yet another reason why we as a team feel that we are never out of any game.
During our trip, Eagle Joe Roth and Eagle Tommy Dugan both celebrated their respective birthdays, with Joe turning 21 on Monday and Tommy turning 19 on Wednesday.
At the plate, Zander had 3 hits and 3 RBIs, including a huge game-tying RBI against Wash U in the final game. Timmy C had 4 hits, 5 RBIs, and another mega home run, his first of the season and ninth of his career. Dave Hissey, freshman Dan Molnar, and freshman Tommy Dugan each finished with 6 hits. Hissey added an RBI, Tommy 3 RBIs, and Molnar added his first and second career home runs. Bralver, Pfister, and Joe Roth each added eight hits, with Joe adding 5 RBIs, Frank 2 RBIs including the eventual game-winner in the final game, and Steve added 8 RBIs, including two home runs. Leading the way with hits was senior Brandon Custer, who ended the tourney with 10 hits in 21 at bats, with that .476 ranking second down in Florida.
The week ahead calls for four games, including a weekend three-game series versus Piedmont. We almost half way through the season, so hopefully we will continue to keep playing at a high level.
"I coulda been a contender, I coulda been somebody." - Robert de Niro as Jake La Motta, ‘Raging Bull'
March 27, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
UCLA did their job. Ohio State did theirs, too. But after the end of a long weekend, my bracket is cracked...How is yours doing?
During the course of the week, we were able to outscore our opponents 36-10 during a 4-0 week after winning UAAs one week ago. At the plate, we had some impressive performances by many of our stars. Nick Wills finished the week 2-4, including making his first collegiate start on Sunday for Piedmont. However, his 2-4 week lowered his batting average down to .625 for the year. Helping the offense was Bo Schill with 2 hits, Mikey Saleh going 1-2 with 2 RBIs, and Tommy Dugan with a hit, an RBI, and 2 runs scored. Tyler Short made three starts during the week, getting a hit in each game while collecting 2 RBIs.
Over the past week, Los Angeles Lakers' star Kobe Bryant had four consecutive games of 50 points or more, and five consecutive games of forty points or more. More importantly, the Lakers have won five straight games.
Zander added two hits and a run; Timmy C had two hits at the dish, Custer had four hits and two RBIs, and Sam Cunningham added two hits and an RBI helping propel our offense to a studly week. Dan Molnar had five hits, three RBIs, and four runs scored while Frank Pfister added seven hits, four runs, and five RBIs.
Top Three Studs at the Plate:
1) Dave Hissey - 11-17, 8 runs, and 2 RBIs
2) Steve Bralver - 9-17, 6 runs, and 12 RBIs
3) Joe Roth - 8-18, 2 runs, and 5 RBIs
On the mound, we were able to keep on keepin' on, with Tony leading the way on Wednesday, collecting his third win of the season. He was relieved by Jules & Sam, both helping to shut the door with scoreless relief. For those who want to learn how to pitch, study video of Ian Ganzer on Saturday vs.Piedmont, where he went 8 innings, struck out nine batters, while only allowing one hit in the sixth inning. His near-perfect day was relieved in the ninth by Will Gumm who threw a scoreless inning with one strikeout. Sunday was a full staff effort, starting with Brian Cournoyer, followed by Adam Genn, Julian Smith, and followed by Rich Babb's three scoreless innings of relief concluding with his fifth win of the season.
And now for Did You Know? Sponsored by Kenny Mayne.
Did you know that Andrew Pinckney holds the career record for most intentional walks with 10, followed by Kyle Foster with 9, and Justin Gordon with 4.
Sunday's game vs. Piedmont was quite the day, starting with team pictures, and of course, ‘Kids' Day!' Now after honoring our favorite kids in the Atlanta area, we wanted to put on a good show for their friends and families. After a back and forth game, Brandon Custer came to the plate and hit a game winning single with the bases loaded in the tenth inning, leading to us walking off to our sixth consecutive victory.
The week ahead calls for games at Huntingdon & Oglethorpe, and hosting Sewanee & LaGrange, as well as the 2nd Annual Home Run Derby for Charity on Saturday. We also will be hosts to the 2007 Final Four, so it is time to open the red carpet to not only UCLA, Ohio State, Florida, and Georgetown, but also Gary Glushon, David Sherman, and Kevin Weiser.
"Home Runs Today. Helping Kids Tomorrow." - 2nd Annual Home Run Derby for Charity.
April 2, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
Ladies and Gentleman, it was a long weekend for me with friends in town including Weiser, Sherman, Gilman, Shook, and my older brother Gary. After four baseball games, one Final Four outing, and a fun-filled Home Run Derby, I am taking this week off of the diary. However, just like any bad late night host will do, I will leave with a Top 5 List for the week.
#5 --- Tom Glavine looking vintage in the first MLB game of the season, defeating the Champion Cardinals and moving another win closer to 300 for his career.
#4 --- Pulling an April Fools joke on Coach T at Oglethorpe, telling him the team helmets were left back at our field just to see the reaction, which in the end, was awesome.
#3 --- Joe Roth collecting 5 hits in 13 at bats, as well as hammering out 5 RBIs.
#2 --- Bryan Langbord winning the 2nd Annual Home Run Derby for Charity event, with the over 100 participants and 200 onlookers helping to raise over $10,000 for the Metro Atlanta Boys & Girls Club.
#1 --- A 3-1 week, improving our record to 22-4 on the season, and looking forward to four more games this week, including a big weekend hosting Greensboro and Mississippi College.
For all the fans at home, I will make sure to bring my A-game next week for the following diary entry. Stay classy.
April 10, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
What an interesting week filled with what I like to call ‘weird plays,' and in the end, we finished 4-0 and currently stand 26-4 with 12 games left in our regular season schedule.
Tuesday we were in Tennessee, where jumped out to an early lead before experiencing inclement weather. And when I use the word inclement, I am not saying rain and wind and lighting. I am saying all those plus twisters, hurricanes, and golf ball sized hail for 15 minutes straight. After both us and Sewanee spent 30 minutes fixing the field, we concluded the game and won 23-3. Two firsts for the game were Sam Cunningham picking up his first collegiate victory, and Rich Babb picking up his first home run, a 3 run bomb to center field on his second career at bat.
We were able to see so many parents from all over the country in town this weekend for an exciting series, and again want to thank everyone for coming out and showing their support. We especially want to thank the former Eagles Keith Meizler and Taylor Gettinger from flying down from New York, along with Travis Langley, to support their alma mater.
The weekend called for some matchups with Greensboro College and Mississippi College, and all three were close, fun affairs. Friday we stormed out to an early lead, thanks to the first home run of the season by Frank Pfister. However, in the seventh inning, with runners on second and third and no outs, up by only one, Rich Babb came into the game and proceeded to strike the next guy out, have the next guy pop out to shallow left, and got the next guy to get out to Cust, preserving the lead. The following inning, a spectacular diving play by Joe Roth continued to help preserve the lead, in route to a 7-6 victory and a courageous 3 inning save by Rich Babb.
And now for Did You Know? Sponsored by Kenny Mayne.
Did You Know that the single season record for Hit by Pitch is 11 held by Michael Sayegh and Doug Markott. Senior Brandon Custer currently stands with 10, just one shy of tying the record.
On Saturday, after falling behind mid-way through, we pushed our way back to 6-5 in the 7th after putting up two runs. In the eighth, after some great pinch running by Jake Ornstein, freshman Tommy Dugan drove home the tying run with 1 out, followed by a perfectly executed squeeze bunt by Tyler Short to take the lead. Tony Vidal pitched 5 strong innings for us with 4 strikeouts, Will Gumm followed him up with 2 great innings, and Sam Cunningham finished off with 2 innings, picking up his second career victory, and second win in three games.
The countdown to the NBA Playoffs begins as April 22 with be the first playoff game on 2007. Stay tuned to see what Kobe Bryant his LA Lakers plan on doing this spring.
At the plate this week, Tyler Short went 2 for 4 including an RBI squeeze bunt to win the Mississippi College matchup. Dave Hissey added 4 hits and 3 RBIs, Tim Cournoyer added 6 hits in 9 at bats, Joe Roth helped with a 7 for 17 week and 9 RBIs, including 2 home runs, and Frank Pfister went 6 for 16 with 5 RBIs and an out-of-the-park home run as well. Let's not forget about Sam's 4 hits, Custer's 5 hits including 3 for 3 day on Tuesday, 1 triple shy of the cycle, or Zander's 5 hits and Tommy's 5 hits and 5 RBIs. Bo also had a couple hits including a home run on Tuesday.
The second game on Saturday was an exciting matchup, led by the domination of Ian Ganzer, who went 6 strong innings, not giving up any earned runs, en route to the victory. We jumped out first to a 3-0 lead, with the help of RBI singles by Sam Cunningham and Frank Pfister. In the sixth, following a double, we executed a perfect relay to the plate from Dave to Cust to Tyler, gunning one of their players out at home to end the inning. The play started up some altercations both on and off the field, but like well respected & civilized people, we handled it with class and were able to continue on with the game. Adam Genn delivered 2 strong innings for the hold, including a fabulous catch on a bunt, leading to a double play in the eighth, followed by Rich Babb coming back from the day before and shutting the door, leading to his fifth save of the year.
I just want to take this time to thank all the Emory parents and families for teaching your children to be civilized as well as using common sense. The baseball program greatly appreciates the way you taught us, as well as how you act yourselves. We also want to wish all the families out there a happy and healthy Easter Holiday.
A long fun week is ahead of us, with Oglethorpe on Tuesday followed by a weekend in Tennessee versus Wash U and then 2 games against Rhodes College. Should be a fun one!
"The only thing you cared about was nugs, chillen, and grindage." - Sean Astin, Encino Man
April 24, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
To those who I disappointed by not writing a diary for the prior week, I apologize for my missed entry and promise to finish off the season strong.
That is sort of a theme for our team as well, dedicating ourselves to finish off our season strong into Regionals and through towards Appleton, Wisconsin and the 2007 World Series.
After a string of losses put us in a little funk, we were forced to turn the tide during a 2-game series at Maryville College over the weekend. We were greeted by the same, great fan turnout, as well as seeing our old good friend Daniel in his truck reading away my past diary entries; Daniel, my boy, one of the many things I will miss about Emory will be coming up to Tennessee and hearing you and the Scot fans go to work.
As for the game, Coach T & our hitters performed a great rendition of ‘Welcome to the Hit Parade', knocking out 21 hits in Saturday's affair. Leading the way was Dave Hissey with 5 hits, Dan Molnar with 4, along with Joe, Zander, and Bo with 2 hits. Sam, Timmy, Matty, and Tyler also added RBI hits, along with Frank Pfister and his 2nd home run of the season.
Shout out to Zander Sotiriou for hitting his 2nd home run of the year last week. Just remember, she'll wear the white jersey and you can wear the blue jersey.
Adam Genn pitched extremely well again for us, before being relieved by Tony Vidal and Rich Babb. After 6 innings, the score was tied 7-7. Rich Babb came in to get the final two outs in the 6th inning, and then the fun really began. Back and forth from the 6th inning through the 13th inning, both teams fought hard, coming extremely close to putting runs across, and each time it looked like a run was going to score, each team made great plays to prevent it from happening. That includes a great defensive catch by Dan Molnar and a heads-up play by Brandon Custer throwing the 2nd out of the inning out at third base.
In the top of the 14th inning, Coach Michael Clark took the reigns over in the third base coaching box and produced 5 runs, including a smart wave of Bo Schill home which ended up being the game-winner.
For those who don't check the Major League Baseball standings, make sure you know that your Los Angeles Dodgers are currently leading the NL West, and as of Monday night, had the second best record in all of baseball.
Rich Babb continued to blow through lineups, throwing 7 shutout innings in relief, showing the rest of the team what guts are all about. He was relieved by freshman Will Gumm, who recorded the final 5 outs to get the win.
The second game on Sunday produced the same close spectacle, with us trailing 3-1 in the top of the 6th inning. However, we preserved yet again by putting up runs in the 6th and 7th innings coming from RBIs by a double by Frank Pfister and a game-tying single by Dan Molnar. In the top of the 9th, we struck again as Coach Clark took the reigns at third base, taking the lead on another clutch hit by Dan Molnar, followed by a RBI hit by Joe Roth, giving us the 5-3 lead.
With this upcoming weekend being senior weekend, we not only look forward to seeing all the friends of families of our seniors, but also friends and families of all Eagles' fans flying or driving in from all the country. Chuck & Debbie: We'll see you soon!
Sam Cunningham made a strong start for us, going 5 innings and scattering only 3 runs. Julian Smith relieved him and pitched 3 great innings of relief, not allowing a run and earning his first collegiate win of his career while striking out 3 in 3 innings of work.
And now for Did You Know? Sponsored by Kenny Mayne.
Did You Know that our new assistant coach, Ryan Shekell, made his first career road trip with us this past weekend up to Maryville. How ‘bout that!
One week to go. One week of classes. One week of the regular season. While the regular season and our academic school year might be winding down, this is the time that our baseball season is heating up. Four games this week against Maryville, LaGrange, and University of Dallas are scheduled to help get us ready for the postseason. Here goes nothing.
May 1, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
Before opening day freshman year, over three years ago, I tried to emulate Grabber by writing my own rhyme to excite fans far and wide about the beginning to the 2004 Emory Baseball Season. That year we went 42-6, including 26-0 to start the season, but ended up going 2-2 in the NCAA Regionals that year concluding with a #9 National Ranking.
Who would've believed that it has been almost four full seasons, and now our entire senior class is about to graduate and make one final NCAA playoff run.
Our class is full with talent and great ballplayers, with 10 of us playing our final games at Chappell Park over the past weekend. It is time for them to get them the credit they deserve:
Brandon Custer has put up great numbers throughout his career, with a career batting average .314, including a .331 senior season. He set the single season record for hit by pitches with 14 this season, and has started 41 of 42 games at shortstop this season. His brother Clayton has served as our amazing bat boy for the past four seasons, and we always enjoy seeing his parents Galen and Terri supporting our team over the years.
Bo Schill will go down as one of the best defensive Eagles of all-time, compiling a .993 career field percentage good enough for #1 in Eagles history, tied with Tommy Lee. He has had a breakout season this year, batting .311 with 2 home runs this year, including a huge line-drive bomb to get us going vs. Rhodes College. We always enjoy seeing his parents Todd and Mary Wilson all over the southeast supporting the team.
Rich Babb has compiled great numbers of the years, with 10 wins, 9 saves, and a 2.74 career ERA. Like the prior seniors, he has saved his best year for his senior year, dominating opponents and putting up a 6-0 record, 5 saves, and a team leading 1.54 ERA, high up in national rankings in all three categories. The intimidating senior also hit a 3 run home run at Sewanee this season, another achievement on his great career. We always have enjoyed spending time with his parents Richard and Maria over the years.
Zander Sotiriou transferred from UC San Diego and was a pinch running extraordinaire. He has worked hard to start the past three seasons, improving his power numbers incredibly, following a one home run season last year with two this year, including a monster grand slam in Millington. A native of the great state of Utah, we will him and his parents, Leo and Cynthia, who have always found time to come east and support the Eagles.
Mike Levin has played six positions in his career at Emory, utilizing all of his skills to put up impressive numbers over the years, including a breakout season with a .316 average last year. However, after a back injury had sidelined him since the fall, he has been unable to play in a game this season until his one start on senior day in left field. However, although unable to play this year, he has supported the team and the players in every facet, doing everything in his power to try and make the Eagles play the best they can be. We will miss his inspiration as well as his parents Neil and Helene.
Sam Cunningham is a five year Eagle who has battled over and over to overcome injury. Following each injury, he has battled back to hit better and harder than before injury, batting .352 his sophomore season and .343 his junior year. Again battling injury this season, he has helped the team at the plate with .295 average and 2 home runs, both on senior day, as well as on the mound with 2-0 record and a 2.66 ERA. Whatever he can do to help the team, Sam has always been there to deliver. We will miss his perseverance, as well as his amazing parents Bruce and Donna who travel far and wide to watch us play.
Anthony Vidal has put together a 7-2 career record at Emory, getting better every year along the way. Last year, he posted a minuscule 1.72 ERA, leading the team, as well as one win with no losses. This season, he has started 7 games, recorded four wins in 46 innings, and has struck out 26 opponents. The senior's big year this year has put the team in prime position for NCAA Regionals, and we will greatly miss seeing his parents Tony and Lina down at the ballpark.
Ian Ganzer transferred to Emory during his sophomore campaign, and immediately made an impact on the mound since. He has complied 18 wins in only three seasons, along with 194 strikeouts and a 2.77 ERA. The powerful Terminator has always not only brought an intense presence to the mound during event start and close over the years, but an amazing work ethic that will surely not be lost amongst all the younger pitchers. We will miss the support of his parents Colleen and Gary down at Chappell Park.
Tim Cournoyer will go down as one of the fiercest hitters in Emory history, bringing a distinguished aura into the batter's box over the years. The senior has hit 10 home runs in his career, including four last season along with a .322 average, 22 RBIs, and a .995 fielding percentage. The senior captain has always led by example, with his actions speaking loud enough for everyone to understand and follow. Luckily for the program, his brother Brian will remain on the team next season, which means Howard and Judith will continue to support their Eagles down at Chappell Park.
As for me, I have had the great opportunity for playing for Coach T and his coaching staff, the privilege to wear an Emory Eagles uniform, as well as having the pleasure of playing on one of the best fields in all of NCAA baseball. I honestly came to Emory because my mom told me to go, and it has worked out better than any of my expectations.
On May 16, the NCAA Regionals begin in Ferrum, Virginia, and this group of seniors begins our final journey, hoping to push our way on through to the 2007 World Series in Appleton, Wisconsin. As for the next two weeks, it is time to buckle down, study, and work hard to best prepare ourselves for two more weeks of baseball.
"And how ‘bout Marla Hooch? What a hitter!" - A League of Their Own
May 21, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
And then there were eight...
At the beginning of the season, and actually as a recurring theme throughout the year, Coach T made it clear that it was important for this year's senior class (now graduated class) to make it to the World Series, a feat we had not done to this point. All the aches, pains, and extra work done by everyone this year was made to put us in position to make a run at the NCAA World Series Championship. That work paid off last week when we were ranked #1 in the South Region tournament to be held in Ferrum, Virginia.
After the senior class graduated last Monday, we got a good sweat on us before boarding the bus up to Ferrum. At the helm of the bus was our main man Ronnie, who while blasting music to and from the ballpark, also got the fans in the stands rowdy and ready for game time.
We would like to take the time to thank all the family, friends, and fans of Emory Baseball for flying out to Ferrum and supporting us, or just to following us online or via Jonathan Schwartz on Teamline. It is awesome getting back on the bus and seeing a bunch of texts from baseball alumni who watched or listened to the entire game, and for that, we thank you for all the support.
After jumping off to a strong 2-0 start behind 10-1 and 10-3 wins over Bridgewater & Methodist, respectively, we put senior captain Sam Cunningham on the bump versus the Cinderella story Ferrum Panthers. A strong outing led by a continued hot offense, we held on to a close one, 9-6, with Sam getting the win, and holds by Rich, Gummy, and Adam Genn's second career save. Very impressive I might add for two freshman pitchers stepping up and holding down the fort under the circumstances.
Robert Horry is again in the Western Conference Finals, going for his 7th NBA Championship.
And then the fun began...
After advancing to the South Region final against Ferrum, needing only one win in two games to advance to the Series. On Saturday, we sent Tony Vidal to the mound, who pitched a strong game in an already tightly contested battle. Julian Smith relieved him and pitched brilliantly for his share before turning the ball over to Rich Babb. We were down 5-3 in the ninth inning, before our magic began. After having the bases loaded and down to our final out, Custer drew a walk to get within one run, before Frank Pfister scored on a wild pitch to tie it up at 5. Rich Babb and Adam Genn pitched the final frames before Ferrum put up their runs in the 12th inning, giving them a hard-fought victory, forcing a do-or-die game on Sunday.
And then the fun really began...
One game. One winner. One trip to the World Series. And for our seniors, one game determining our entire four year careers. Coming off a brilliant Game 1 outing, Ian Ganzer took the hill on short rest and showed guts by going 5 2/3 innings. Again, we fell behind 5-3 going into the final frame, and just like déjà vu all over again, we tied the score, coming from a hit by senior Tim Cournoyer followed by a clutch, 2-run home run by senior Sam Cunningham, arguably the biggest home run in Emory baseball history. Again, the game waited until the 12th inning before Brandon Custer led off the inning with a single, and following a Bo Schill sac bunt, sophomore Tyler Short clutched up and got the go-ahead single into the right field gap, putting us three outs away from Appleton. Rich Babb, who came in to retire the final two outs in the 11th, went out and closed the door, getting the final out to pop out to Bo in foul territory, capping an incredible comeback, a season long goal, and the third ever trip for Emory to the College World Series.
And now for "Did You Know" sponsored by Kenny Mayne. Did You Know that Reed Harvey, Class of 2003, is the only Emory pitcher ever to win a College World Series game, during Game 2 back in 2003.
Frank Pfister finished the tournament as the MVP, going 16-25 with 5 RBIs, 4 doubles, and a bag full of web gems at third base. Also making the All-Tournament team were Joe Roth (9-26, 6 RBIs) and Ian Ganzer (1-0, 9 Ks, 1 BB). Now, while I could go down the list and write about everyone's stats and contributions, the underlying factor is that our regional championship was a team effort, from 1 to 27.
We jump aboard a flight to Wisconsin this week, in a quest to bring home the first ever World Series crown back to Emory. There are eight teams flying in, and only one will fly out with the trophy. Our work is not done, and we know that. Time to leave it all on the field.
"The only thing you should care about is being ranked #1 at the end of the season." Rob Segear, Emory Baseball Class of 2004
May 31, 2007
| Jason Glushon |
The bar has been set...
After an amazing ride in Appleton, Wisconsin, we returned home early Wednesday morning with our heads held high. Not many teams can come back from losing the opening game and knock out 4 straight victories. Not only that, but do it each game overcoming deficits and refusing to lose.
When the week was all said and done, we finished the season with 43 wins, a new school record, and a final #2 ranking, the highest final ranking in school history. Numerous players set single season records along the way, while myself, Frank Pfister, Steve Bralver, and Brandon Custer were all rewarded spots on the All Tournament team.
Nothing was better than seeing all the friends, fans, and family of Emory Baseball travel to Wisconsin to support the Eagles this past weekend. It was one of the most amazing rides, and everyone who was there will have memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.
A major theme throughout the season, but especially during Regionals and the World Series, was the fight of our entire team...from 1 to 28.
Whether it be Julian Smith's stellar relief appearances in the postseason, Frank's amazing hitting and fielding earning all-tournament teams both times, Custer's .475 World Series batting average, Joe Roth's All-American Gold Glove Award, Will Gumm's clutch arm earning a World Series win, Tyler Short's MVP all-around play throughout a rigorous postseason, or even Bo Schill's perfect season defensively.
By now we all know how much I love the Los Angeles Lakers. But come on, can Kobe make up his mind. Stay in LA...where you belong.
The same could be said about McDonough's big impact behind the dish as a freshman or Rich Babb's dominant season putting up gaudy stats with 8 wins, 6 saves, and a minute ERA. You gotta include Jake's stretch of scoring game-winning runs, Zander's sweet glove and timely power hitting, Nick Wills' earning the name the 'Hit Machine,' Sweet Hands Saleh making fielding look way so cool and easy, Brian Cournoyer's first year impact including a perfect inning in the World Series, Adam Genn's timely and clutch relief efforts in regionals to ensure key victories, and even Dave Hissey's most timely first home run of the season pushing us through a hard-fought Cortland game.
And now for "Did You Know" Sponsored by Kenny Mayne.
Did You Know that Washington University's Andy Shields is the batter I will miss the least pitching against.
The run we had this year wasn't just for ourselves, our families, and our school, but also for every Eagle that has come before us. For all the players we played with over the past 4 seasons, to the two prior teams who made the World Series, this playoff push was for every Eagle who ever sported our blue and gold. It is a history filled with amazing alumni that our team truly respects.
What about Mike 'Coach' Levin's amazing leadership and dancing abilities, Molnar's huge freshman impact with the bat and glove which included game winners and savers in Maryville, Sam Cunningham's five years culminating in the biggest swing in Emory history, Tony Vidal's senior leadership and pitching power, especially down the stretch, Tommy Dugan's desire and fire and refusal to lose, Scotty's persistence and determination finally paying off, Ganzer's incredible career finished off with an amazing and gutsy outing in the championship, Katten's work ethic, power, and of course always smiling, Corn Dog's power and intimidation, while not to mention a game winning hit in the World Series, Carroll's clutch and consistent bat off the bench so resembling of former stud Gordo, and Bralver's first year contributions by providing power and fist pumps.
The run of 2007 will go down as the best in Emory history, but it is just a framework for the future. For the past four years, it has been a pleasure being part of such an amazing program, and I feel confident that this year's senior class has left the program in better shape than when we arrived in the fall of 2003.
"You play to win the game." - Herman Edwards, NFL Head Coach