I just learned that over 600 of our football season ticket holders (1,000 tickets) have already renewed their 2009 tickets the easy way -- on-line. Some other schools have a higher percentage but this is a pretty good starting point for us.
Those of you that didn't renew on-line will need to wait as our ticket office staff sorts through paper applications, stuffs envelopes and trucks over to the post office. Then you have to do the same thing from your home or office back to us. This "old way" requires postage, manpower and time. You can renew on-line at your convenience, 24/7.
We'll be renewing basketball tickets on-line when the time comes -- think about it!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
2009 SEC WBB Postseason Awards
By Weinman - The Southeastern Conference will announce its postseason awards for women's basketball this afternoon at 2 p.m. CT. Vanderbilt is the No. 2 seed in the upcoming conference tournament, and a number of Commodores are in the running for individual accolades.
Let's hear your predictions for today's announcement. The categories are:
Coach of the Year
Player of the Year
Scholar-Athlete of the Year
Freshman of the Year
Defensive Player of the Year
Sixth Woman of the Year
All-SEC First Team
All-SEC Second Team
All-Defensive Team
All-Freshman Team
Let's hear your predictions for today's announcement. The categories are:
Coach of the Year
Player of the Year
Scholar-Athlete of the Year
Freshman of the Year
Defensive Player of the Year
Sixth Woman of the Year
All-SEC First Team
All-SEC Second Team
All-Defensive Team
All-Freshman Team
Haye signs with Titans
By Barca Blog - Former Commodore Jovan Haye is coming back to Nashville.The Tennessee Titans signed the defensive tackle to a four-year deal worth a reported $16 million Monday according to Terry McCormick of the Nashville City Paper.
"It means a lot," said Haye, who played at Vanderbilt from 2002-04. "I say to myself now, I’m back home. This is a place where I visited often. During Super Bowl week, this is where I was the whole week. It feels good. Vanderbilt is right up the street. I have a lot of friends here, and just to have an opportunity to play for a great organization, that was key in the decision."
Haye spent most of the last three seasons with Tampa Bay. Last year, he started 14 games and recorded 33 tackles. In 2007, he had a career-best six sacks and 68 tackles.
As a Commodore, Haye had 149 tackles, 10.5 sacks, 17 tackles for loss and one interception in three seasons and earned second-team All-SEC honors as a sophomore.
Read More About Haye:
TitansOnline Release
Press Conference Quotes
Tennessean Release
Nashville City Paper Release
Monday, March 2, 2009
A Commodore Conversation with David Williams
The Jackson, MS Vanderbilt Chapter invites you to join us for:A Commodore Conversation with David Williams
Vanderbilt University Vice Chancellor for
University Affairs and Athletics
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
6:30pm: Reception
7:00pm: Program
Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame
1152 Lakeland Drive
Jackson, Mississippi
Cost - $10 per person
Cost - $10 per person
Light hors d'oeuvres and complimentary beverages will be served. Seats are limited.
David Williams wears many hats on the Vanderbilt University campus but none as public as the head of the varsity athletic program. Since taking command in September 2003, the Commodores have enjoyed unprecedented success on and off the field. The football team won the 2008 Music City Bowl championship, the basketball teams have reached the NCAA Sweet 16, the baseball team is now a national power and the bowlers won the school's first national championship. Academically, high-water marks have been set and reset as the composite grade point average for all student-athletes is over 3.0.
Questions? Contact Jackson Chapter President Andy White, Eng'97
Registration: Register Online for Jackson, MS Vanderbilt Chapter: An Evening with David Williams 2009.
A big catch
By Barca Blog - Call it a premonition, but head coach Tim Corbin decided to work redshirt freshman Aaron Westlake at catcher last December. A corner infielder, Westlake had never played the position in his baseball career.After Andrew Giobbi broke his hand Friday (causing him to be sidelined for 4-6 weeks), the Commodores were in need of an every day catcher. Curt Casali had already moved to first base prior to the season due to an arm injury.
Westlake stepped into the situation and played error-free ball on Saturday and Sunday, both victories over Vermont.
“I can’t give him enough credit," Sunday starter Nick Christiani said. "He’s only been catching for a few months and I feel very comfortable with him back there. He’s done an excellent job considering the circumstances. When your top two catches go down, a lot of teams wouldn’t have the depth to have a guy back there that did the job that he did.”
Corbin was also complimentary of Westlake's performance at catcher.
"He’s got a very good disposition for the game and that’s why he’s able to do what he does," Corbin said of Westlake, who was named SEC Freshman of the Week on Monday after hitting .667 (10-for15) in five games last week. "He seems to relax behind the plate and has good skills as far catching the ball and he sits in there nice and has good flexibility. You can tell he’s new because he’s a little bit twitchy but he’s not bad at all."
Now that Westlake has changed positions for the time being, other players have offered their services behind the plate if needed.
"(Joe) Loftus and (Joey) Manning say they want to do it now, too," quipped Corbin. "When someone’s hurt, it's any way into the lineup I guess."
With Giobbi out, Loftus did start at DH Saturday and Sunday, going 3-for-6 with two RBI, a run and two walks.
"I like Joe swinging the bat," Corbin added. "He’s confident. He’ll be in the lineup and will be one of those guys that’s going to hit pretty big for us. I like his approach at the plate."
Fans can read more about how Westlake's career was almost in jeopardy last season in David Boclair's article from early February.
The Commodores (5-3) will entertain Lipscomb Tuesday (4 p.m. CT) followed by a four-game home series with Illinois-Chicago starting Thursday. For tickets, call (615) 322-GOLD or click here.
Week 2 Baseball Notebook
Posted by SID
Overall Record: 5-3; Record for the Week: 4-0
Last Week:
2/25 Vanderbilt 10, Western Kentucky 7
2/27 Vanderbilt 7, Vermont 2
2/28 Vanderbilt 14, Vermont 3
3/1 Vanderbilt 14, Vermont 1
This Week (Buy Tickets):
3/3 vs. Lipscomb - 4 p.m. CT at Hawkins Field
3/5 vs. Illinois-Chicago - 4 p.m. CT at Hawkins Field
3/6 vs. Illinois-Chicago - 4 p.m. CT at Hawkins Field
3/7 vs. Illinois-Chicago - 2 p.m. CT at Hawkins Field
3/8 vs. Illinois-Chicago - Noon CT at Hawkins Field
Notes:
Vanderbilt went 4-0 on the week, scoring in double digits in three of the four wins … Offensively the team batted .386 on the week with 15 doubles, 45 runs scored, 30 walks and just 12 strikeouts in 132 at-bats (.500 on base percentage) … Aaron Westlake was torrid at the plate collecting a hit 10 times in 13 at bats (.769) with three doubles, two RBI and six runs scored with a walk and a .733 on base percentage. He moved to catcher for the first time ever against Vermont on Saturday and started two games behind the plate … Steven Liddle went 8-for-13 (.615) with two doubles, a triple, six RBI and six runs scored. He walked five times and struck out once (.684 fielding percentage) … Freshman Riley Reynolds went 4-for-7 (.571) with six runs scored and had five walks and four stolen bases in five attempts in four games, three starts. He stole three bases in Sunday’s win over Vermont … Another freshman, Jason Esposito, went 6-for-15 (.400) with two doubles and three RBI.
Pitching wise, all four starters went a minimum of five innings, with three going six-plus … Caleb Cotham held Vermont hitless and scoreless for 6.2 innings before giving up a RBI single in the seventh inning of Saturday’s win. He ended up giving up three runs, two earned, on three hits with five strikeouts and two walks … Nick Christiani (6.0 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 8 SO, 1BB) and Mike Minor (7.2 IP, 6 H, 2 R, 4 SO, 3 BB) also had quality starts over the weekend … Seven other pitchers had at least an inning of scoreless relief with Sonny Gray (Western Kentucky) and Russell Brewer (Vermont, Game 1) picking up saves … Grayson Garvin (Vermont, Game 2), Mark Lamm (Vermont, Game 3) and Navery Moore (Vermont, Game 3) each saw their first action of the year and pitched an inning of scoreless relief … As a team the staff posted a 2.50 ERA with 33 strikeouts and nine walks in 36.0 innings.
Junior catcher Andrew Giobbi suffered a broken hand in his first at bat against Vermont Friday night and is expected to miss a minimum of four weeks. Aaron Westlake will start behind the plate until he gets back … The Commodores will play five games in six days against 2008 NCAA Tournament clubs in Lipscomb and Illinois-Chicago.
Overall Record: 5-3; Record for the Week: 4-0
Last Week:
2/25 Vanderbilt 10, Western Kentucky 7
2/27 Vanderbilt 7, Vermont 2
2/28 Vanderbilt 14, Vermont 3
3/1 Vanderbilt 14, Vermont 1
This Week (Buy Tickets):
3/3 vs. Lipscomb - 4 p.m. CT at Hawkins Field
3/5 vs. Illinois-Chicago - 4 p.m. CT at Hawkins Field
3/6 vs. Illinois-Chicago - 4 p.m. CT at Hawkins Field
3/7 vs. Illinois-Chicago - 2 p.m. CT at Hawkins Field
3/8 vs. Illinois-Chicago - Noon CT at Hawkins Field
Notes:
Vanderbilt went 4-0 on the week, scoring in double digits in three of the four wins … Offensively the team batted .386 on the week with 15 doubles, 45 runs scored, 30 walks and just 12 strikeouts in 132 at-bats (.500 on base percentage) … Aaron Westlake was torrid at the plate collecting a hit 10 times in 13 at bats (.769) with three doubles, two RBI and six runs scored with a walk and a .733 on base percentage. He moved to catcher for the first time ever against Vermont on Saturday and started two games behind the plate … Steven Liddle went 8-for-13 (.615) with two doubles, a triple, six RBI and six runs scored. He walked five times and struck out once (.684 fielding percentage) … Freshman Riley Reynolds went 4-for-7 (.571) with six runs scored and had five walks and four stolen bases in five attempts in four games, three starts. He stole three bases in Sunday’s win over Vermont … Another freshman, Jason Esposito, went 6-for-15 (.400) with two doubles and three RBI.
Pitching wise, all four starters went a minimum of five innings, with three going six-plus … Caleb Cotham held Vermont hitless and scoreless for 6.2 innings before giving up a RBI single in the seventh inning of Saturday’s win. He ended up giving up three runs, two earned, on three hits with five strikeouts and two walks … Nick Christiani (6.0 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 8 SO, 1BB) and Mike Minor (7.2 IP, 6 H, 2 R, 4 SO, 3 BB) also had quality starts over the weekend … Seven other pitchers had at least an inning of scoreless relief with Sonny Gray (Western Kentucky) and Russell Brewer (Vermont, Game 1) picking up saves … Grayson Garvin (Vermont, Game 2), Mark Lamm (Vermont, Game 3) and Navery Moore (Vermont, Game 3) each saw their first action of the year and pitched an inning of scoreless relief … As a team the staff posted a 2.50 ERA with 33 strikeouts and nine walks in 36.0 innings.
Junior catcher Andrew Giobbi suffered a broken hand in his first at bat against Vermont Friday night and is expected to miss a minimum of four weeks. Aaron Westlake will start behind the plate until he gets back … The Commodores will play five games in six days against 2008 NCAA Tournament clubs in Lipscomb and Illinois-Chicago.
Stallings' Call-In Show Tonight
By Barca Blog - Kevin Stallings' Call-In Show airs live from 6:30-7:30 p.m. CT Monday night at the Commodore Grille. Listen locally on 104.5 the Zone or online on VUcommodores.com. For more info, Click Here.
Vanderbilt (17-11, 6-8 SEC) will finish off their SEC regular season slate with a trip to LSU Wednesday (7 p.m. CT) and a home finale with Arkansas Sunday (1 p.m. CT). Tickets are still available for the matchup with the Razorbacks. Reserve your seats by calling (615) 322-GOLD or visiting vucommodores.com.
Vanderbilt (17-11, 6-8 SEC) will finish off their SEC regular season slate with a trip to LSU Wednesday (7 p.m. CT) and a home finale with Arkansas Sunday (1 p.m. CT). Tickets are still available for the matchup with the Razorbacks. Reserve your seats by calling (615) 322-GOLD or visiting vucommodores.com.
WBB SEC Tourney Bracket
By Barca Blog - The women's basketball team came up short against the Lady Vols in last night's regular season finale, but still earned the No. 2 overall seed in the 2009 SEC Tournament, which gets underway this Thursday at Alltel Arena in North Little Rock, Ark.
Since Vanderbilt (21-8, 10-4 SEC) finished second in the conference (highest in Melanie Balcomb's tenure), the Commodores will open the tournament with a bye Thursday and will play the winner between No. 7 seed Georgia and No. 10 seed Kentucky on Friday, March 6 at 2:30 p.m. CT. The 'Dores split their regular season meetings with Georgia and won by 10 at Kentucky in early February. The other seeds on Vanderbilt's side of the bracket: No. 3 LSU, No. 6 Mississippi State and No. 11 South Carolina.
Balcomb led the Commodores to SEC Tournament championships in 2004 and 2007.
To view the complete bracket, click here.
Since Vanderbilt (21-8, 10-4 SEC) finished second in the conference (highest in Melanie Balcomb's tenure), the Commodores will open the tournament with a bye Thursday and will play the winner between No. 7 seed Georgia and No. 10 seed Kentucky on Friday, March 6 at 2:30 p.m. CT. The 'Dores split their regular season meetings with Georgia and won by 10 at Kentucky in early February. The other seeds on Vanderbilt's side of the bracket: No. 3 LSU, No. 6 Mississippi State and No. 11 South Carolina.
Balcomb led the Commodores to SEC Tournament championships in 2004 and 2007.
To view the complete bracket, click here.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Memorial brings it once again
By Barca Blog - In his postgame press conference, head coach Kevin Stallings was quick to point out the impact of the fans during Saturday's 96-83 win over South Carolina."I'm really proud of our crowd. You could tell there was an energy that didn't have to be there with the students gone (for spring break) and us losing to the last place team in our division. I'm proud that our crowd didn't give up on us."
So Memorial wasn't jam-packed after the letdown of Wednesday's loss at Georgia, but those that attended tonight's contest had plenty to cheer about after witnessing the Commodores' best performance of the season against a red-hot, SEC East leading Gamecock squad.
The Commodores (17-11, 6-8 SEC) were the aggressor from the outset and led by as many as 25 at one point to the delight of the Memorial faithful. Even with fading hopes of making the NCAA Tournament for the third consecutive year, the 'Dores showed they still have some fight left in them.
"We don't have that much to lose right now," said junior guard Jermaine Beal, who blistered USC with a personal best 27 points. "We know our standing in the conference, but our season is far from over. We are just trying to get better and to have fun, and seize every opportunity we have."
"Our fans deserved us to play as hard as we can play," Stallings added, "and our fans helped us play that way tonight."
Baseball: Andrew Giobbi Out For Awhile
by SID - Junior catcher Andrew Giobbi broke his hand in his first at bat in Friday's win over Vermont. Head coach Tim Corbin said he is likely out 4-6 weeks. Despite the injury Giobbi continued to play and finished out the game. Coach Corbin said after Saturday's win over Vermont that "Gio" showed amazing toughness, just like he did over the summer when playing in the Cape. He was hit in the face by a pitch early in the summer and came back to finish out the season with Harwich. The league honored him with its 10th Man Award.
With Giobbi out, the catching position which was once an area of experienced depth, is now a question mark with little to no experience outside of practice. Curt Casali went into the year as the starter but has switched to first base due to an arm injury. Aaron Westlake has practiced behind the plate at times, but Saturday's game was his first real game action. He caught a no-hitter for six-plus innings and had four hits so you could say he had a good day.
Westlake's backup is redshirt freshman Drew Fann from Oakland High in Murfreesboro. Fann has yet to see action in a real game on the collegiate level, but he did belt a homer off of freshman flame-thrower Sonny Gray in the Black and Gold Series in the fall.
In a season of new faces in different places, add another change to the list.
With Giobbi out, the catching position which was once an area of experienced depth, is now a question mark with little to no experience outside of practice. Curt Casali went into the year as the starter but has switched to first base due to an arm injury. Aaron Westlake has practiced behind the plate at times, but Saturday's game was his first real game action. He caught a no-hitter for six-plus innings and had four hits so you could say he had a good day.
Westlake's backup is redshirt freshman Drew Fann from Oakland High in Murfreesboro. Fann has yet to see action in a real game on the collegiate level, but he did belt a homer off of freshman flame-thrower Sonny Gray in the Black and Gold Series in the fall.
In a season of new faces in different places, add another change to the list.
Friday, February 27, 2009
More notes after the 7-2 win over Vermont
By Barca Blog - Some notes and quotes I put together following Vanderbilt's 7-2 win over Vermont in the series opener.
Lefties make it happen
The story of the night was the success of Vanderbilt's lefthanded hitters against Vermont Friday night. The Commodores collected 13 hits in the 7-2 win with Steven Liddle, Riley Reynolds and Aaron Westlake combining to go a perfect 11-for-11 from the plate. Not an easy task when you're facing a crafty southpaw veteran like Joe Serafin, who won Pitcher of the Year in the American East conference last year.
"The lefties had great games tonight," Vanderbilt head coach Tim Corbin said. "You had guys hitting .221 off Serafin last year with lefties hitting considerably less, so we send a bunch of lefties up there and they got all of our hits. Reynolds pounded the six-hole, Liddle kept spraying the ball all the way around, and Westlake used the other side of the field. I thought it was the best job of hitting the ball the other way that we've done this year."
Liddle finished with a career-best four RBI on a single, double, and triple, while Reynolds and Westlake added four hits apiece. Corbin praised Reynolds' performance and talked about what he brings to this ballclub.
"(Riley) just knows his ability," Corbin said of the 6-1, 180 pound freshman. "He knows who he is which I think is so important for a young kid. He doesn't try to do anything more than just put the bat on the ball and let the pitcher do the work for him and he does. He's a good player. I like him out there. You almost wouldn't notice him because he doesn't say "Boo" but you notice him when he's out there playing. He's a pretty good number nine-hole hitter."
Picked off
Corbin wanted to be aggressive on the basepaths against Serafin and the Catamounts, but was concerned with the team being picked off twice on the night.
"I worry about pickoffs. As I tell the guys you have 27 dollars to spend, that's 27 outs, you just don't want to throw your dollars away. You want to use them wisely. If the other team gives you more money to spend, use it, but you can't use your money on pickoffs and things like that. It's just throwing money away."
Lots to still play for
The big news surrounding Vermont's arrival in Nashville was that its athletic department announced last week it would discontinue the baseball program at the end of the season due to the current financial crisis. You have to think the Catamounts had a lot on their minds when they took the field for their first game tonight.
"These kids have nothing to lose," Corbin commented. "They're going to lose their whole program. All of these kids will be at a different school next year so they're just playing for their life."
The announcement runs close to Corbin, who has a personal tie to Vermont head coach Bill Currier. Both are proteges of former Vermont/current Clemson coach Jack Leggett.
"He played for Jack (Leggett) at Vermont. I've know Billy because of Jack, and he's a very good friend of mine and I respect him a lot. He was a heck of a player. If you read (the book) Moneyball, there's a whole chapter on him, because he was a big, tall lefthanded hitter who got drafted high out of Vermont. He does a nice job with his kids and they've probably got a chance to win that American East conference when it's all said and done."
Lefties make it happen
The story of the night was the success of Vanderbilt's lefthanded hitters against Vermont Friday night. The Commodores collected 13 hits in the 7-2 win with Steven Liddle, Riley Reynolds and Aaron Westlake combining to go a perfect 11-for-11 from the plate. Not an easy task when you're facing a crafty southpaw veteran like Joe Serafin, who won Pitcher of the Year in the American East conference last year.
"The lefties had great games tonight," Vanderbilt head coach Tim Corbin said. "You had guys hitting .221 off Serafin last year with lefties hitting considerably less, so we send a bunch of lefties up there and they got all of our hits. Reynolds pounded the six-hole, Liddle kept spraying the ball all the way around, and Westlake used the other side of the field. I thought it was the best job of hitting the ball the other way that we've done this year."
Liddle finished with a career-best four RBI on a single, double, and triple, while Reynolds and Westlake added four hits apiece. Corbin praised Reynolds' performance and talked about what he brings to this ballclub.
"(Riley) just knows his ability," Corbin said of the 6-1, 180 pound freshman. "He knows who he is which I think is so important for a young kid. He doesn't try to do anything more than just put the bat on the ball and let the pitcher do the work for him and he does. He's a good player. I like him out there. You almost wouldn't notice him because he doesn't say "Boo" but you notice him when he's out there playing. He's a pretty good number nine-hole hitter."
Picked off
Corbin wanted to be aggressive on the basepaths against Serafin and the Catamounts, but was concerned with the team being picked off twice on the night.
"I worry about pickoffs. As I tell the guys you have 27 dollars to spend, that's 27 outs, you just don't want to throw your dollars away. You want to use them wisely. If the other team gives you more money to spend, use it, but you can't use your money on pickoffs and things like that. It's just throwing money away."
Lots to still play for
The big news surrounding Vermont's arrival in Nashville was that its athletic department announced last week it would discontinue the baseball program at the end of the season due to the current financial crisis. You have to think the Catamounts had a lot on their minds when they took the field for their first game tonight.
"These kids have nothing to lose," Corbin commented. "They're going to lose their whole program. All of these kids will be at a different school next year so they're just playing for their life."
The announcement runs close to Corbin, who has a personal tie to Vermont head coach Bill Currier. Both are proteges of former Vermont/current Clemson coach Jack Leggett.
"He played for Jack (Leggett) at Vermont. I've know Billy because of Jack, and he's a very good friend of mine and I respect him a lot. He was a heck of a player. If you read (the book) Moneyball, there's a whole chapter on him, because he was a big, tall lefthanded hitter who got drafted high out of Vermont. He does a nice job with his kids and they've probably got a chance to win that American East conference when it's all said and done."
Pre-Vermont baseball tidbits
By Barca Blog - As the Commodore baseball team (2-3) gets ready for their weekend series with Vermont starting tonight at 6 p.m. CT, here are some notes following Wednesday’s 10-7 win over Western Kentucky.
McClure makes first start
Sophomore shortstop Alex McClure had a solid first start as a Commodore Wednesday. Known for his defensive abilities, McClure also produced at the plate, going 2-for-3 with two runs. The Walters State transfer helped spark VU’s six-run fourth inning with a text-book bunt single to load the bases.
“I wanted to give him a chance,” said head coach Tim Corbin. “I like what he did. He hit one ball right on the screws and got out, but then he dropped a nice drag bunt, and also got a bloop hit after that. I thought he had a good game. He’s a good player and deserves playing time.
Gray looks good
Highly touted freshman pitcher Sonny Gray has been impressive out of the bullpen so far.
“He’s just got that competitive mindset,” Corbin told the press after Gray notched his first career save Wednesday.
In three appearances, Gray’s yet to allow a run (and only one runner has reached third). He’s struck out five in five innings while walking just one. He’s been nails in pressure situations. Look no further than his first outing at No. 5 Stanford last Friday, where he held the Cardinal scoreless for three innings in a tie ballgame.
“Sonny’s been doing a great job,” said junior Brian Harris. “He throws hard but the most important thing is that he keeps it around the zone making it tough to hit. We all have confidence in him.”
Harris jumpstarts offense
Harris has made the most of his opportunity as an everyday starter after serving in a reserve role his first three years. Through five games, he's done everything you could ask for in the leadoff spot.
According to this week’s official notes:
Harris leads the team with a .438 batting average and seven RBI through five games. The Nashville native has a knack for getting on base with five walks and has also been hit three times leading to a .625 on-base percentage. As the leadoff hitter he is also perfect with four stolen bases in four attempts while also playing a steady infield at either short or second base.
“He’s done a nice job and has been the table setter for our team in scoring runs and stealing bases,” Corbin said. “It’s his time to play now and he’s playing like he’s been starting for three years.”
All about patience
With so many question marks in the lineup entering the season, early signs seem to indicate that the entire Commodore batting order will be a tough out for opposing pitchers. Plate patience has played a key role in the Commodore offense that's averaging seven runs a game.
“Everyone seems to work the pitcher pretty well,” said Corbin. “I don’t really see freebies 1 through 9. Every time I see a hitter up there I feel good about what’s about to happen. I like our offensive team. I think we’re capable of scoring runs.”
Vanderbilt’s also drawing about five walks per game including nine on Wednesday, the most since earning 10 against Louisville on March 4th last year.
“Throughout the lineup we’re willing to see a couple of pitches first as opposed to jumping on the first one to really make the pitchers work,” said sophomore Curt Casali. “I think that’s why we’re scoring so many runs.”
Different number, Same response
You might have noticed Casali wearing a different number Wednesday (39 instead of 9). Apparently, it didn’t affect him. He continued his offensive surge with a bases clearing double in the fourth which broke open the WKU game.
“They just didn’t order a No. 9 for the white jersey,” Casali remarked. “It doesn’t mean anything. Hopefully I’ll get No. 9 back by the weekend.”
On the year, Casali leads the team in hits (7), homeruns (2), total bases (15) and slugging (.714).
Rough beginning for Hayes
After a successful sophomore year (3.51 ERA in 41 IP with 53 Ks), reliever Drew Hayes has struggled to begin 2009. In three appearances, he’s 0-1 with a 12.00 ERA in three innings of work.
“It looks like Drew’s breaking ball is flat because people are getting good swings on it,” said Corbin. “He had a great fall and I expect at some point he’s going to flip the switch here. He’s getting hit harder than he should in my opinion. He’s got to get more angle to his fastball and more angle to his breaking ball, too. It’s very horizontal right now.”
Closing out the name of the game
Vanderbilt was either tied or held the lead in the eighth inning of all four games out West but ended up losing three of four. Don’t think this stat was lost in the locker room prior to Wednesday’s win.
“It’s been a big point of emphasis,” said Harris. “We need to throw strikes, put the ball in play, and then make routine plays. It’s kind of cost us in the late innings in the past couple of games. We need to make the routine plays and do the things we’re supposed to do.”
The Commodores were tested again after the Hilltoppers scored three runs in the seventh to cut the margin to 10-7. Behind Richie Goodenow and Gray, Vanderbilt’s young squad buckled down to earn the win.
“Even though the record doesn’t show it, I think we’re playing some good baseball,” Harris added. “We just need to be able to close out games in the ninth and I think we’ll be fine. I think we’ll surprise a lot of people.”
McClure makes first start
Sophomore shortstop Alex McClure had a solid first start as a Commodore Wednesday. Known for his defensive abilities, McClure also produced at the plate, going 2-for-3 with two runs. The Walters State transfer helped spark VU’s six-run fourth inning with a text-book bunt single to load the bases.
“I wanted to give him a chance,” said head coach Tim Corbin. “I like what he did. He hit one ball right on the screws and got out, but then he dropped a nice drag bunt, and also got a bloop hit after that. I thought he had a good game. He’s a good player and deserves playing time.
Gray looks good
Highly touted freshman pitcher Sonny Gray has been impressive out of the bullpen so far.
“He’s just got that competitive mindset,” Corbin told the press after Gray notched his first career save Wednesday.
In three appearances, Gray’s yet to allow a run (and only one runner has reached third). He’s struck out five in five innings while walking just one. He’s been nails in pressure situations. Look no further than his first outing at No. 5 Stanford last Friday, where he held the Cardinal scoreless for three innings in a tie ballgame.
“Sonny’s been doing a great job,” said junior Brian Harris. “He throws hard but the most important thing is that he keeps it around the zone making it tough to hit. We all have confidence in him.”
Harris jumpstarts offense
Harris has made the most of his opportunity as an everyday starter after serving in a reserve role his first three years. Through five games, he's done everything you could ask for in the leadoff spot.
According to this week’s official notes:
Harris leads the team with a .438 batting average and seven RBI through five games. The Nashville native has a knack for getting on base with five walks and has also been hit three times leading to a .625 on-base percentage. As the leadoff hitter he is also perfect with four stolen bases in four attempts while also playing a steady infield at either short or second base.
“He’s done a nice job and has been the table setter for our team in scoring runs and stealing bases,” Corbin said. “It’s his time to play now and he’s playing like he’s been starting for three years.”
All about patience
With so many question marks in the lineup entering the season, early signs seem to indicate that the entire Commodore batting order will be a tough out for opposing pitchers. Plate patience has played a key role in the Commodore offense that's averaging seven runs a game.
“Everyone seems to work the pitcher pretty well,” said Corbin. “I don’t really see freebies 1 through 9. Every time I see a hitter up there I feel good about what’s about to happen. I like our offensive team. I think we’re capable of scoring runs.”
Vanderbilt’s also drawing about five walks per game including nine on Wednesday, the most since earning 10 against Louisville on March 4th last year.
“Throughout the lineup we’re willing to see a couple of pitches first as opposed to jumping on the first one to really make the pitchers work,” said sophomore Curt Casali. “I think that’s why we’re scoring so many runs.”
Different number, Same response
You might have noticed Casali wearing a different number Wednesday (39 instead of 9). Apparently, it didn’t affect him. He continued his offensive surge with a bases clearing double in the fourth which broke open the WKU game.
“They just didn’t order a No. 9 for the white jersey,” Casali remarked. “It doesn’t mean anything. Hopefully I’ll get No. 9 back by the weekend.”
On the year, Casali leads the team in hits (7), homeruns (2), total bases (15) and slugging (.714).
Rough beginning for Hayes
After a successful sophomore year (3.51 ERA in 41 IP with 53 Ks), reliever Drew Hayes has struggled to begin 2009. In three appearances, he’s 0-1 with a 12.00 ERA in three innings of work.
“It looks like Drew’s breaking ball is flat because people are getting good swings on it,” said Corbin. “He had a great fall and I expect at some point he’s going to flip the switch here. He’s getting hit harder than he should in my opinion. He’s got to get more angle to his fastball and more angle to his breaking ball, too. It’s very horizontal right now.”
Closing out the name of the game
Vanderbilt was either tied or held the lead in the eighth inning of all four games out West but ended up losing three of four. Don’t think this stat was lost in the locker room prior to Wednesday’s win.
“It’s been a big point of emphasis,” said Harris. “We need to throw strikes, put the ball in play, and then make routine plays. It’s kind of cost us in the late innings in the past couple of games. We need to make the routine plays and do the things we’re supposed to do.”
The Commodores were tested again after the Hilltoppers scored three runs in the seventh to cut the margin to 10-7. Behind Richie Goodenow and Gray, Vanderbilt’s young squad buckled down to earn the win.
“Even though the record doesn’t show it, I think we’re playing some good baseball,” Harris added. “We just need to be able to close out games in the ninth and I think we’ll be fine. I think we’ll surprise a lot of people.”
Vanderbilt hoops' signee Jenkins in SI
By Travis Young -- Vanderbilt men's basketball signee John Jenkins has been recognized in the "Faces in the Crowd" section of the March 2 issue of Sports Illustrated for surpassing the 3,000 career point total in a 66-32 District 8-AA on Feb. 21. With his 3000th point Jenkins became the 19th player in Tennessee High School history to notch 3000 points, putting his name among players like Anfernee Hardaway and Tony Delk.The future Commodore is currently the nation's leading scorer, averaging an impressive 42.3 points per game, including a career-best 60 points in a double overtime game versus Gallatin. Rivals.com has Jenkins listed as the 37th-best player in the country and eighth-best shooting guard in the class of 2009.
To view the latest "Faces of the Crowd" in Sports Illustrated click here http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/scorecard/faces/2009/03/02/
Thursday, February 26, 2009
MBB Tickets Available for Saturday
A limited amount of tickets are available for Saturday's men's basketball game with South Carolina at 8 p.m. CT inside Memorial Gym. To order, call (615) 322-GOLD or click here.
Biggest Loser Race Heating Up
Team Gold Shines in McGugin's Biggest Loser Contest
Monday found me preparing to broadcast the Vanderbilt-California baseball game onsite in Berkeley, California. Thomas Samuel of Vanderbilt Athletic Communications had successfully duped me into believing that the hilly terrain of the San Francisco Bay Area that we experienced had more than made up for the gigantic dessert binge we were enjoying. That almost made sense to me until I remembered we mostly drove around on the interstate.
The news for Team Black wasn't bad (down another 10 lbs), but it was Team Gold that dropped 17 lbs on the week. After six weeks, Team Gold has lost a total of 98 lbs (2.52% of total body weight) and Team Black has lost 85 lbs (2.02% of total body weight).
As in all competition, there are some individuals that standout such as operations intern Brett Wulke for the Team Gold. Brett is training for the Music City Marathon and has lost 22 lbs to pace Gold. Wulke claims he still has some room to improve, but I certainly hope he has thinned down about as far as possible. Team Black is led by Jason Silvers (marketing) who has melted 17 lbs away primarily by sheer willpower and a newfound commitment to witchcraft. If it isn't witchcraft, then he is just eating way too healthy. There are a total of nine individuals who have joined the 10 lbs Club, losing 10 or more lbs: Greg Allen (Golf), Mr. Brandon Barca (Web Marketing and Communications), Candice Lee (Compliance Guru) and Brett Wulke (Operations) for Team Gold. Team Black includes Tim House (Marketing), Myself (Eric Jones, Ticket Office), George Midgett (Compliance), Jason Silvers (Marketing) and Heather Warf (Business Office).
Tomorrow, we will welcome in our sponsor Smart Water to have a Tasting Party in McGugin Center for all Biggest Loser Participants at 10:30am. Perhaps I will try to get Brett Wulke to try a new experimental flavor: Pepperoni Pizza or Banana Split. Four weeks to go.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Video of the Day
By Barca Blog - Who could forget Hootie's plug for the Tender Crisp Bacon Cheddar Ranch? I remember watching the Blowfish perform at Vanderbilt's Rites of Spring concert a few years back and all the students showed up in Burger King crowns. Darius refused to play the song, almost causing a riot in the crowd.
I guess he wanted to be taken seriously as an artist. Who would have thought that this song would eventually lead to a career in country music? Anything to sell a record. I guess musicians gotta eat, too, even if it is a Tender Crip Bacon Cheddar Ranch.
I guess he wanted to be taken seriously as an artist. Who would have thought that this song would eventually lead to a career in country music? Anything to sell a record. I guess musicians gotta eat, too, even if it is a Tender Crip Bacon Cheddar Ranch.
Video: WBB Senior Night
By Barca Blog - In case you missed it, watch video (below) of senior night ceremonies honoring Amy Malo, Jennifer Risper and Christina Wirth following Vanderbilt's 73-70 win over No. 3 Auburn last Thursday. To see more Commodore footage on YouTube, click here.
Back in 1963
By Barca Blog - Fans attending today's baseball home opener will notice some changes to Hawkins Field, especially the permanent bleacher seating that surrounds the outfield wall. I received this email and picture (click photo for larger image) from Vanderbilt baseball alum Jim Waggoner to give you an indication of how that same field looked back in the day.I believe my father took this picture in about 1963......the Vandy team bench was down the first base line....no dug out or cover but some type of new dug out was under construction behind us.....no wall or fence around the home plate area....free admission.
We didn't win many games....we had a good Coach (Coach Harley Boss)....you could hear his voice from deep centerfield....wooden bats.....Coach Boss called the old Jackie Robinson thick handled bat the "Saturday Evening Post"....Coach Harley died of heart failure in 1965 or 1966...
The amazing thing is that today several players from this team and this era are actively supporting the current team and Coach Corbin.....from as far away as Virginia and Florida.
Jim Waggoner '63
Thanks to Jim for sending in the picture and story. With the addition of bleacher seating, etc., baseball season tickets are available for the first time in three years. To order your tickets, click here. We'll see you at the park today.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Week 1 Baseball Notebook
Posted by SID
Vanderbilt's Overall Record: 1-3; Record for the Week: 1-3
Last Week:
2/20 Stanford 6, Vanderbilt 5 (10)
2/21 Vanderbilt 12, Stanford 9 (Game 1)
2/21 Stanford 6, Vanderbilt 5 (Game 2)
2/23 Cal 4, Vanderbilt 3
This Week (Buy Tickets):
2/25 vs. Western Kentucky - 4 p.m. at Hawkins Field
2/27 vs. Vermont - 6 p.m. at Hawkins Field
2/28 vs. Vermont - 2 p.m. at Hawkins Field
3/1 vs. Vermont - 1 p.m. at Hawkins Field
Notes:
Vanderbilt went 1-3 in its opening week of action, with all three losses by one run. The team held a lead deep into every game but were unable to close them out. The Commodores carried a 5-1 lead into the sixth inning in the opener against Stanford, only to lose 6-5 in extra innings. They had a 12-1 lead in the eighth inning of Game 2 and gave up seven runs in the inning and held on for a 12-9 win. VU had a 5-3 lead in the bottom of the eighth against Stanford in the third game before giving up three runs in the frame to lose 6-5. Then they closed out the West Coast trip, holding a 3-2 lead in the ninth against Cal before the Bears plated two runs in their final at-bat to win 4-3.
The starting pitcher was solid throughout the week with every starter pitching into the sixth inning. Caleb Cotham picked up the lone win with a seven-inning, seven strikeout performance against Stanford in the second game of the series … Sean Bierman scattered six hits over six innings of work in his first start of the year with five strikeouts and two walks … Freshman Sonny Gray was impressive in two relief appearances pitching four scoreless innings with four strikeouts and one walk while allowing three hits.
Fourth-year junior Brian Harris has become the catalyst of the offense in the leadoff spot, leading the team with a .385 batting average with a homer and four RBI. He has also shown a knack for getting on base with a .579 on-base percentage … Redshirt freshman Aaron Westlake made a nice return to his home state, going 5-for-14 (.357) on the week … Jason Esposito made his first collegiate homerun a memorable one, hitting a grand-slam in the 12-9 win over Stanford … In all five players saw their first significant action as starters over the week including true freshmen Jason Esposito and Riley Reynolds.
The 1-3 start is the slowest the Commodores have gotten off to in the Tim Corbin era. The last time VU has started 1-3 was in 2000 under head coach Roy Mewbourne … The Commodores will open a nine-game homestand Wednesday afternoon against Western Kentucky.
Vanderbilt's Overall Record: 1-3; Record for the Week: 1-3
Last Week:
2/20 Stanford 6, Vanderbilt 5 (10)
2/21 Vanderbilt 12, Stanford 9 (Game 1)
2/21 Stanford 6, Vanderbilt 5 (Game 2)
2/23 Cal 4, Vanderbilt 3
This Week (Buy Tickets):
2/25 vs. Western Kentucky - 4 p.m. at Hawkins Field
2/27 vs. Vermont - 6 p.m. at Hawkins Field
2/28 vs. Vermont - 2 p.m. at Hawkins Field
3/1 vs. Vermont - 1 p.m. at Hawkins Field
Notes:
Vanderbilt went 1-3 in its opening week of action, with all three losses by one run. The team held a lead deep into every game but were unable to close them out. The Commodores carried a 5-1 lead into the sixth inning in the opener against Stanford, only to lose 6-5 in extra innings. They had a 12-1 lead in the eighth inning of Game 2 and gave up seven runs in the inning and held on for a 12-9 win. VU had a 5-3 lead in the bottom of the eighth against Stanford in the third game before giving up three runs in the frame to lose 6-5. Then they closed out the West Coast trip, holding a 3-2 lead in the ninth against Cal before the Bears plated two runs in their final at-bat to win 4-3.
The starting pitcher was solid throughout the week with every starter pitching into the sixth inning. Caleb Cotham picked up the lone win with a seven-inning, seven strikeout performance against Stanford in the second game of the series … Sean Bierman scattered six hits over six innings of work in his first start of the year with five strikeouts and two walks … Freshman Sonny Gray was impressive in two relief appearances pitching four scoreless innings with four strikeouts and one walk while allowing three hits.
Fourth-year junior Brian Harris has become the catalyst of the offense in the leadoff spot, leading the team with a .385 batting average with a homer and four RBI. He has also shown a knack for getting on base with a .579 on-base percentage … Redshirt freshman Aaron Westlake made a nice return to his home state, going 5-for-14 (.357) on the week … Jason Esposito made his first collegiate homerun a memorable one, hitting a grand-slam in the 12-9 win over Stanford … In all five players saw their first significant action as starters over the week including true freshmen Jason Esposito and Riley Reynolds.
The 1-3 start is the slowest the Commodores have gotten off to in the Tim Corbin era. The last time VU has started 1-3 was in 2000 under head coach Roy Mewbourne … The Commodores will open a nine-game homestand Wednesday afternoon against Western Kentucky.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Pedro creating a buzz in Pittsburgh
By Barca Blog - There's a nice article on former Commodore standout Pedro Alvarez in today's edition of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.Alvarez, the No. 2 overall pick in last June's Major League Baseball draft, has already received high praise from several people within the Pirates organization during spring training camp in Bradenton, Fla. Even one former Pirate compared Alvarez's swing to a former Pittsburgh great.
"Pedro Alvarez has Willie Stargell's swing," Manny Sanguillen said. "I played with him a lot of years. I know that swing."
Click here to read the entire story by Chuck Finder.
(Photo Credit: Peter Diana / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)
(Photo Credit: Peter Diana / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)
One tough loss
By Barca Blog
"It had to be one of the toughest losses since I've been at Vanderbilt."
Those were the words of head coach Melanie Balcomb following Vanderbilt's devastating 71-69 loss at Ole Miss Sunday, which dropped the Commodores (21-7, 10-3 SEC) out of first place in the SEC standings behind Auburn (26-2, 11-2) with one game remaining.
It looked like Jence Rhoads' basket at the buzzer would extend the game into overtime, but officials used video replay to determine that the shot occurred after the buzzer.
The loss stung hard because the Commodores had controlled their chance at winning their first ever conference title, but now need to win at Tennessee (19-8, 8-4) Sunday plus a Tigers' loss to Arkansas (17-11, 6-7) to earn a co-championship. While 'Dores have never won in Knoxville, Arkansas might be the hottest team in the conference, winning five SEC games in a row, a new school record for the Razorbacks.
No matter what happens, Vanderbilt will end up in at least a tie for second place, the best finish in Balcomb's seven years on West End. The Commodores have also clinched at worst a No. 2 seed in the SEC Tournament based on the remaining tie breakers.
"It had to be one of the toughest losses since I've been at Vanderbilt."
Those were the words of head coach Melanie Balcomb following Vanderbilt's devastating 71-69 loss at Ole Miss Sunday, which dropped the Commodores (21-7, 10-3 SEC) out of first place in the SEC standings behind Auburn (26-2, 11-2) with one game remaining.
It looked like Jence Rhoads' basket at the buzzer would extend the game into overtime, but officials used video replay to determine that the shot occurred after the buzzer.
The loss stung hard because the Commodores had controlled their chance at winning their first ever conference title, but now need to win at Tennessee (19-8, 8-4) Sunday plus a Tigers' loss to Arkansas (17-11, 6-7) to earn a co-championship. While 'Dores have never won in Knoxville, Arkansas might be the hottest team in the conference, winning five SEC games in a row, a new school record for the Razorbacks.
No matter what happens, Vanderbilt will end up in at least a tie for second place, the best finish in Balcomb's seven years on West End. The Commodores have also clinched at worst a No. 2 seed in the SEC Tournament based on the remaining tie breakers.
February Issue of Commodore Nation
The February issue of Commodore Nation is now available online by clicking below. You can toggle between pages by clicking the arrows or you can zoom into the document by clicking it.
The March 2009 issue is being mailed this week.
The March 2009 issue is being mailed this week.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Vanderbilt-Cal baseball game rained out
by SID
Vanderbilt’s baseball game against California, scheduled for 3 p.m. CT today, has been canceled due to rain.
The teams will attempt to play a single game tomorrow at 3 p.m. CT. The forecast in the Bay Area calls for 4-6 inches of rain today and tomorrow.
If tomorrow’s game is canceled, it will not be made up against Cal. Instead a home game during the midweek is likely to be added later in the year.
Vanderbilt opens its home campaign against Western Kentucky on Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 4 p.m.
Vanderbilt’s baseball game against California, scheduled for 3 p.m. CT today, has been canceled due to rain.
The teams will attempt to play a single game tomorrow at 3 p.m. CT. The forecast in the Bay Area calls for 4-6 inches of rain today and tomorrow.
If tomorrow’s game is canceled, it will not be made up against Cal. Instead a home game during the midweek is likely to be added later in the year.
Vanderbilt opens its home campaign against Western Kentucky on Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 4 p.m.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Saturday Starting Lineup for Baseball
by SID
Head coach Tim Corbin has decided to use the same starting lineup from last night's game with right-hander Caleb Cotham on the mound.
1. SS Brian Harris
2. C Andrew Giobbi
3. 1B Curt Casali
4. DH Aaron Westlake
5. SS Jason Esposito
6. RF Steven Liddle
7. CF Alex Hilliard
8. LF Jonathan White
9. 2B Riley Reynolds
RHP Caleb Cotham
The team is in good spirits and looking forward to playing two against Stanford today. Most of the polls have the 2008 College World Series participant in their Top 15, so if yesterday's game is any indication it looks like the 2009 Commodores can play with anyone.
Head coach Tim Corbin has decided to use the same starting lineup from last night's game with right-hander Caleb Cotham on the mound.
1. SS Brian Harris
2. C Andrew Giobbi
3. 1B Curt Casali
4. DH Aaron Westlake
5. SS Jason Esposito
6. RF Steven Liddle
7. CF Alex Hilliard
8. LF Jonathan White
9. 2B Riley Reynolds
RHP Caleb Cotham
The team is in good spirits and looking forward to playing two against Stanford today. Most of the polls have the 2008 College World Series participant in their Top 15, so if yesterday's game is any indication it looks like the 2009 Commodores can play with anyone.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Baseball Team To Play Doubleheader Tomorrow
by SID
Because of impending rain in the Northern California area, Vanderbilt head coach Tim Corbin and Stanford head coach Mark Marquess decided to play a doubleheader tomorrow starting at 2 p.m. CT. The rain is expected to hit on Sunday and Monday so they came together thinking that three games would be better than the two that could be played.
So the Commodores and Cardinal will now play three games. If VU is able to get Sunday's game against Cal in, then the fourth game on Monday will be cancelled. If they can't get Sunday's game in, they will try again on Monday. Either way only one game against Cal will be played now.
Because of impending rain in the Northern California area, Vanderbilt head coach Tim Corbin and Stanford head coach Mark Marquess decided to play a doubleheader tomorrow starting at 2 p.m. CT. The rain is expected to hit on Sunday and Monday so they came together thinking that three games would be better than the two that could be played.
So the Commodores and Cardinal will now play three games. If VU is able to get Sunday's game against Cal in, then the fourth game on Monday will be cancelled. If they can't get Sunday's game in, they will try again on Monday. Either way only one game against Cal will be played now.
Minor, Gray Receive Preseason Accolades
By Travis Young - Vanderbilt left-hander Mike Minor has been tabbed as Baseball America’s Preseason Candidate for Pitcher of the Year in the Southeastern Conference. The award was announced in Baseball America’s College Baseball Preview Magazine.
Minor enters the season as the ace of the Commodore pitching staff after going 7-3 with a 4.28 ERA last year. This past summer he was named College Summer League Player of the Year by Baseball America after helping the USA Baseball National Team win the gold medal game of the FISU World Championships by throwing 9.2 innings of shutout baseball in the team’s 12-inning win over Japan. The southpaw finished the summer with a 3-0 record and 0.75 ERA to go with 37 strikeouts in a team high 36 innings for the National Team.
Freshman right-hander Sonny Gray also received some preseason recognition as he was tabbed as one of two players for the national “Freshman of Year” award in the same publication. The Smyrna, Tenn., native went 4-0 with 0.79 ERA while posting 78 strikeouts in 35 innings as a senior at Smyrna High.
In the team race, Vanderbilt has been picked to finish third in the SEC East, behind Georgia and Florida.
The Commodores open the season today at Stanford with the opening pitch slated for 7:30 p.m. CT.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Corbin adjusts gameday coaching
By Barca Blog - Over the summer, baseball head coach Tim Corbin decided to make a switch to one of his gameday managerial duties. Corbin had previously served as the Commodores’ third base coach in his first six seasons… Until now.“I had to make a change and just knew it was the right time to do it,” Corbin said. “(Assistant Coach) Erik Bakich has been in the program for six years and felt like he could do it. Erik’s paid his dues and he’ll do well in that spot.”
Bakich’s duties will move from first to third, while first-year Volunteer Assistant Coach Larry Day will handle the responsibilities at first. Corbin will now coach exclusively from the dugout, something he also did when he managed the USA Baseball National Team to a 28-2-1 record and a FISU gold medal during the summer of 2006.
“It’s a different way to interact with the kids and it’s more of a pitch-to-pitch type thing,” Corbin added. “Hopefully I have a good impact in there. It just puts you off the field and into a situation where you can think through the offense and defense at the same time. When you’re out at third base, your mind has to be on the running game and you can’t think of everything so it’s a little bit easier.”
Another change this year, instituted by the NCAA, will be that base coaches will be required to wear a helmet on the field.
According to NCAA.com, collegiate baseball's adoption of the rule comes on the heels of Major League Baseball requiring the same of their base coaches. MLB passed the rule after Mike Coolbaugh, a coach for the Colorado Rockies’ Double-A team, was killed after being hit be a line drive while coaching first base in 2007.
“The rule was kind of a kick back from the Coolbaugh situation and professional baseball,” Corbin stated. “As sad as it was, Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball, and then Collegiate Baseball reacted the same way. We just have to put helmets on top of our base coaches’ heads. I guess we’ll see how it works. It can only help so much, but it’s a safety measure.”
Corbin won’t be obligated to wear the gear, though, due to his move to the dugout.
“I don’t look too good in it,” Corbin joked. “It’s probably another good reason for me to not coach third base.”
Vanderbilt Signee Named to McDonald’s All-American Team
(Glenn Nelson/ESPN.com)By Ryan Schulz - Vanderbilt signee Stephanie Holzer became the Commodores’ most recent McDonald’s All-American on Wednesday with the release of the rosters for the 2009 McDonald’s All-American Games.
The 6-foot-4 post player from Newtown Square, Pa., was one of just 24 girls selected to participate in the game, which divides the players into two teams, the East and West. Holzer will suit up for the West team in the game, which will be held April 1 at 4:30 p.m. CT at the University of Miami’s Bank United Center. The game will air live on ESPNU.
Holzer is one of four signees who will join Vanderbilt’s team for the 2009-10 season. She is averaging 19.5 points, 15.5 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks this season at Cardinal O’Hara High School.
The inaugural McDonald’s All-American Girls Game was held in 2002. Current Vanderbilt senior Christina Wirth played in the 2005 game.
The McDonald’s All-American Boys Game will be played at 7 p.m. CT.
Click here to view the rosters and learn more about the game.
Brian Harris Q&A
By Barca Blog - Shortstop Brian Harris talks about the Commodores' season-opening baseball trip to California this weekend.On being named a starter:
“I think I have (paid my dues), and I just try to become a better player every single day. If I’m starting then great, if not then I just try to help the team the best way that I can on and off the field.”
On playing defense:
“I just like playing defense. I can’t explain it. It’s just something that I like to do. I have a lot of fun with it. It’s something that I take a whole lot of pride in. If people see that then that’s awesome.”
On being a backup prior to this year:
“When you’re playing behind two guys like Pedro and Feinberg, they’re two great players. They’ve been in that starting role for so long the experience kind of plays out. That’s just what I was trying to do – produce when my name was called. If I’m not starting then that’s fine. I just want to help the team any way I can.”
On communicating with a young infield:
“At first it was kind of mysterious because we didn’t know who was going to play where. The young guys were getting kind of nervous, but they’ve adapted very, very well. They’ve just completely come into our circle. We like every single one of them. They’re doing so well. There’s some senior leadership in that, but it’s also them buying into what we’re about and just believing in what we’re trying to help them out with.”
On the opening series at Stanford:
“We’re so excited to go to Stanford. Coach Corbin said we’ve been trying to play these guys for seven years now. I think it’ll be a good thing for them and a good thing for us. We’re just so excited to go out there and play those guys.”
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