The bottom hand drill teaches path. If done correctly it will quickly clean up a poor bat path. Check the video by clicking the link below to see how to execute this drill.
Bottom Hand Drill
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Bottom Hand Drill
The bottom hand drill teaches path. If done correctly it will quickly clean up a poor bat path. Check the video by clicking the link below to see how to execute this drill.
Bottom Hand Drill
Friday, December 4, 2009
Summer Collegiate League Standouts - Zach Amrein
Even though he's right-handed, Amrein taught himself to throw lefty when he insisted on catching the ball with his dominant hand as a kid. He also bats from the left side. In his first tryout at Carmel Catholic, Amrein brought both a right and left-handed glove -- just in case!
2010 Illinois Baseball Coaches Clinic will be January 18
2010 Clinic will be January 18
The annual I-70 baseball coaches clinic will feature guest speakers:
Ron Polk - volunteer assistant coach, University of Alabama at Brimingham. He is the former head coach at Mississippi State, Georgia and Georgia Southern. Polk went to the College World Series with each of those schools. He has a career record of 1373- 702.
Derek Johnson, pitching coach, Vanderbilt University. Johnson has made stops at Vandy, Stetson, Southern Illinois and Eastern Illinois.
Joel Hawkins, head coach Highland High School. Hawkins has coached 19 seasons compiling a 401-203 record during that time.
Contact information regarding the clinic schedule:
Mark E. Jurgena
Greenville High School
One Vandalia Road
Greenville, Illinois 62246
(618) 664-1370 Ext. 111
email:jurg100 at hotmail.com
The annual I-70 baseball coaches clinic will feature guest speakers:
Joel Hawkins, head coach Highland High School. Hawkins has coached 19 seasons compiling a 401-203 record during that time.
Contact information regarding the clinic schedule:
Mark E. Jurgena
Greenville High School
One Vandalia Road
Greenville, Illinois 62246
(618) 664-1370 Ext. 111
email:jurg100 at hotmail.com
Tommy Lasorda's World: My Godson Paul Mainieri
Tommy Lasorda's World: My Godson Paul Mainieri: "LSU Reloads Again"
Baseball in Illinois will only show details on players from Illinois.
Tigers' recruiting class stands out
By Aaron Fitt of Baseball America
Dan Canevari knows a little something about recruiting in the wake of a national championship. As an assistant under Skip Bertman, Canevari hit the recruiting trail shortly after Louisiana State won titles in 1997 and 2000. So he knew exactly what was in store for LSU recruiting coordinator David Grewe after the Tigers won their sixth national championship in June.
"He came into my office and said, 'Hey, it's a lot harder this year, isn't it?' " Grewe said. "I said, 'Yeah, it's way harder.' "
Conventional thinking suggests recruits should be knocking down the door after teams win the College World Series. Grewe said the reality is much different.
"A lot of coaches used it against us: 'If you go to LSU you're not going to play. Have you seen their team? They're stacked,' " he said. "So I had to work harder to make kids understand where our program is at. This is the next phase of our program. This class will keep LSU at the elite level. After we won the national championship, I said, 'We have got to meet every single need. We've got to recruit the best players in the country so they know we can win the national championship here and they know we're turning to a new era here.' "
That message has been delivered loud and clear. Louisiana State was perhaps the biggest winner from the early signing period, which began Nov. 11 and ended yesterday. The Tigers officially signed five members of Baseball America's Top 100 prospects from the high school class of 2010, and they'll have a sixth when the football team announces the commitment of two-sport star Zach Lee (No. 50).
Add in athletic outfielder Marcus Davis, who just missed the Top 100 cut; promising righthanders Josh Burris, Kurt McCune, and Ryan Eades; and physical two-way talent Kevin Koziol, and LSU's class has the kind of quality depth that could rival its watershed 2007 crop. That class--head coach Paul Mainieri's first in Baton Rouge--ranked second in the nation and served as the foundation for two Omaha teams.
With a resume that includes a Gatorade Illinois Baseball Player of the Year award this spring and a 31 on the ACT, Brother Rice's Kevin Koziol had plenty of college options. Koziol, a shortstop and pitcher who is a two-time Sun-Times All-Area selection, picked the Tigers over such powers as Notre Dame, Clemson and Kentucky.
Baseball in Illinois will only show details on players from Illinois.
Tigers' recruiting class stands out
By Aaron Fitt of Baseball America
"He came into my office and said, 'Hey, it's a lot harder this year, isn't it?' " Grewe said. "I said, 'Yeah, it's way harder.' "
Conventional thinking suggests recruits should be knocking down the door after teams win the College World Series. Grewe said the reality is much different.
"A lot of coaches used it against us: 'If you go to LSU you're not going to play. Have you seen their team? They're stacked,' " he said. "So I had to work harder to make kids understand where our program is at. This is the next phase of our program. This class will keep LSU at the elite level. After we won the national championship, I said, 'We have got to meet every single need. We've got to recruit the best players in the country so they know we can win the national championship here and they know we're turning to a new era here.' "
That message has been delivered loud and clear. Louisiana State was perhaps the biggest winner from the early signing period, which began Nov. 11 and ended yesterday. The Tigers officially signed five members of Baseball America's Top 100 prospects from the high school class of 2010, and they'll have a sixth when the football team announces the commitment of two-sport star Zach Lee (No. 50).
Add in athletic outfielder Marcus Davis, who just missed the Top 100 cut; promising righthanders Josh Burris, Kurt McCune, and Ryan Eades; and physical two-way talent Kevin Koziol, and LSU's class has the kind of quality depth that could rival its watershed 2007 crop. That class--head coach Paul Mainieri's first in Baton Rouge--ranked second in the nation and served as the foundation for two Omaha teams.
Cubs trade Fox, Miles for A's Gray | cubs.com: News
Cubs trade Fox, Miles for A's Gray cubs.com: News: "Cubs trade Fox, Miles for A's Gray
Righty reliever comes to Chicago with two prospects"
By Carrie Muskat / MLB.com
CHICAGO Illinois -- Aaron Miles will get a fresh start, Jake Fox may finally get a chance to play more regularly and the Cubs added a power arm to the bullpen in a deal Thursday with the Oakland Athletics.
The Cubs acquired pitchers Jeff Gray and Ronny Morla and highly touted prospect Matt Spencer from the A's for Miles, Fox and cash.
"It's a real good trade for everyone," Cubs general manager Jim Hendry said. "Jake will help the A's, hopefully Aaron will get back on track. It gives us three good young players and a power arm with a chance to make the club in Gray."
The move also clears some room on the Cubs' payroll. They will save $1.7 million owed Miles.
Righty reliever comes to Chicago with two prospects"
By Carrie Muskat / MLB.com
The Cubs acquired pitchers Jeff Gray and Ronny Morla and highly touted prospect Matt Spencer from the A's for Miles, Fox and cash.
"It's a real good trade for everyone," Cubs general manager Jim Hendry said. "Jake will help the A's, hopefully Aaron will get back on track. It gives us three good young players and a power arm with a chance to make the club in Gray."
The move also clears some room on the Cubs' payroll. They will save $1.7 million owed Miles.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Baseball - News - Valparaiso University Official Athletic Site
Baseball - News - Valparaiso University Official Athletic Site: "Baseball Adds Two More to Recruiting Class"
Valparaiso University baseball coach Tracy Woodson has announced that Sam Carius and Kris Singh will join six others that have already committed to play baseball for the Crusaders beginning in 2011.
Carius, a 5-foot-11, 160-pound, right-handed hitting third baseman/utility player from Waubonsie Valley High School in Aurora, Illinoid., hit .425 with 31 RBIs his junior season. He accumulated many honors for his outstanding season including unanimous All-Upstate Eight Conference, IHSABCA All-Area, Beacon News All-Area Honorable Mention, Chicago Sun Times 2009 All Area Baseball-Infield Honorable Mention, and Stevenson Showcase Tournament selections.
“Sam is an exciting addition to our team,” said Woodson. “He can really swing the bat. Sam is the type of player coaches love to have because he is usually the hardest worker and expects nothing handed to him. He has raw hitting ability but also possesses a determination that will give him that extra edge. We expect him to be in the mix to compete for a position next fall.”
Singh, a 5-foot-11, 160-pound, left-handed pitcher/utility player, had a 2.70 ERA with 53 strikeouts in 57 innings pitched his junior season at Waubonsee Valley High School in Aurora, Ill. He also hit .369 with six homeruns and 28 RBIs. Singh was selected for Upstate Eight All-Conference Award, 2008 and 2009 IHSBCA Phil Lawler Summer Classic All-Tournament Team, and attended the 2009 Stevenson Showcase.
“Kris gives us many options with his game and as he physically matures we expect him to have a great college baseball career here at Valparaiso,” Woodson added. “He is a left handed pitcher who commands three pitches with a plus change. We believe he has a lot of potential from the mound and knows how to get batters out. A bonus is that he can also swing the bat from the left side. Kris has surprising power which shows by his ability to drive in runs.”
“We believe in the overall picture we have assembled the best recruiting class in my time here at Valparaiso University,” Woodson concluded. “Adding Sam and Kris to this incoming class gives us even more confidence about the future of our baseball program. Both of these players have the work ethic and character that we strive to find when recruiting. Overall, we have found players that can help us elevate to new levels of competition, and, most importantly, we have found players that are the right fit for this program and this university. ”
Carius, a 5-foot-11, 160-pound, right-handed hitting third baseman/utility player from Waubonsie Valley High School in Aurora, Illinoid., hit .425 with 31 RBIs his junior season. He accumulated many honors for his outstanding season including unanimous All-Upstate Eight Conference, IHSABCA All-Area, Beacon News All-Area Honorable Mention, Chicago Sun Times 2009 All Area Baseball-Infield Honorable Mention, and Stevenson Showcase Tournament selections.
“Sam is an exciting addition to our team,” said Woodson. “He can really swing the bat. Sam is the type of player coaches love to have because he is usually the hardest worker and expects nothing handed to him. He has raw hitting ability but also possesses a determination that will give him that extra edge. We expect him to be in the mix to compete for a position next fall.”
Singh, a 5-foot-11, 160-pound, left-handed pitcher/utility player, had a 2.70 ERA with 53 strikeouts in 57 innings pitched his junior season at Waubonsee Valley High School in Aurora, Ill. He also hit .369 with six homeruns and 28 RBIs. Singh was selected for Upstate Eight All-Conference Award, 2008 and 2009 IHSBCA Phil Lawler Summer Classic All-Tournament Team, and attended the 2009 Stevenson Showcase.
“Kris gives us many options with his game and as he physically matures we expect him to have a great college baseball career here at Valparaiso,” Woodson added. “He is a left handed pitcher who commands three pitches with a plus change. We believe he has a lot of potential from the mound and knows how to get batters out. A bonus is that he can also swing the bat from the left side. Kris has surprising power which shows by his ability to drive in runs.”
“We believe in the overall picture we have assembled the best recruiting class in my time here at Valparaiso University,” Woodson concluded. “Adding Sam and Kris to this incoming class gives us even more confidence about the future of our baseball program. Both of these players have the work ethic and character that we strive to find when recruiting. Overall, we have found players that can help us elevate to new levels of competition, and, most importantly, we have found players that are the right fit for this program and this university. ”
2010 Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association Clinic
The 2010 Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association Clinic will be held on Friday February 5th and Saturday February 6th, 2010 at the Bulls/Sox Academy in Lisle Illinois. This years clinic will include the head coach (John Cohen) and pitching coach (Butch Thompson) from Mississippi State University, Cory Stevens- head coach from Wabash College, Nate Metzger - head coach at Heartland Community College, Joe Walsh-head coach at Harvard University, Mike Huff and Justin Stone-Chicago White Sox and Pete Caliendo from Caliendo Sports International.
Following is the adgenda for the clinic:
FRIDAY February 5, 2010
4:00pm Registration and Exhibitors Booths Open
5:00- 6:00 Chris Paproth, Ron Smith, Jared Voss, Mike Napolean
1A, 2A, 3A, 4A State Champions
Helpful Offensive Plans
6:00-6:50 John Cohen, Head Coach Mississippi State
Helping Young Hitters Find a Stroke
6:50-7:10 VISIT THE EXHIBITORS
7:10-8:00 Butch Thompson, Pitching Coach Mississippi State University
Bullpen Enhancement along with Absolute Drill Series
8:00-9:00 John Cohen, Head Coach Mississippi State University
Mississippi State Wall Ball
9:00-11:00 IHSBCA Coaches and Exhibitors Appreciation Reception
SATURDAY February 6, 2010
7:00 a.m. Registration Begins (Coffee and Doughnuts)
8:00- 8:50 Cory Stevens, Head Coach Wabash College
Indoor Practices and Multiple Team and Position Drills
8:50-9:40 Pete Caliendo, President Caliendo Sports International
International Baseball Hitting Drills and Skills
9:40-10:05 VISIT THE EXHIBITORS
10:05-10:35 Mike Huff, Chicago White Sox
Bunting for Hits and Sacrifices -- Ideas and Drills
10:35-11:25 Joe Walsh, Head Coach Harvard University
Winning with Lesser Talent
11:25– 12:45 LUNCH AND VISIT THE EXHIBITORS 50/50 Raffle winners
12:45 -12:50 IHSBCA Announcements
12:50 – 1:40 Mike Huff, Chicago White Sox
An Outfielders Mindset and Fundamentals
1:40- 2:30 Justin Stone, Chicago White Sox
Infield Fielding Philosophy and Drills
2:30– 3:20 Nate Metzger, Heartland C.C. Head Coach and staff
Practice Organization
3:20- 3:30 IHSBCA Closing Comments
In order to register you must be a memeber of the coaches association - http://www.illinoishighschoolbaseball.org/
Following is the adgenda for the clinic:
FRIDAY February 5, 2010
4:00pm Registration and Exhibitors Booths Open
5:00- 6:00 Chris Paproth, Ron Smith, Jared Voss, Mike Napolean
1A, 2A, 3A, 4A State Champions
Helpful Offensive Plans
6:00-6:50 John Cohen, Head Coach Mississippi State
Helping Young Hitters Find a Stroke
6:50-7:10 VISIT THE EXHIBITORS
7:10-8:00 Butch Thompson, Pitching Coach Mississippi State University
Bullpen Enhancement along with Absolute Drill Series
8:00-9:00 John Cohen, Head Coach Mississippi State University
Mississippi State Wall Ball
9:00-11:00 IHSBCA Coaches and Exhibitors Appreciation Reception
SATURDAY February 6, 2010
7:00 a.m. Registration Begins (Coffee and Doughnuts)
8:00- 8:50 Cory Stevens, Head Coach Wabash College
Indoor Practices and Multiple Team and Position Drills
8:50-9:40 Pete Caliendo, President Caliendo Sports International
International Baseball Hitting Drills and Skills
9:40-10:05 VISIT THE EXHIBITORS
10:05-10:35 Mike Huff, Chicago White Sox
Bunting for Hits and Sacrifices -- Ideas and Drills
10:35-11:25 Joe Walsh, Head Coach Harvard University
Winning with Lesser Talent
11:25– 12:45 LUNCH AND VISIT THE EXHIBITORS 50/50 Raffle winners
12:45 -12:50 IHSBCA Announcements
12:50 – 1:40 Mike Huff, Chicago White Sox
An Outfielders Mindset and Fundamentals
1:40- 2:30 Justin Stone, Chicago White Sox
Infield Fielding Philosophy and Drills
2:30– 3:20 Nate Metzger, Heartland C.C. Head Coach and staff
Practice Organization
3:20- 3:30 IHSBCA Closing Comments
In order to register you must be a memeber of the coaches association - http://www.illinoishighschoolbaseball.org/
Maryland Baseball announces fall signees
Maryland Athletics - University of Maryland Official Athletic Site: "Baseball Announces Fall Signees
Nine recruits make up first wave of 2010 class"
Baseball in Illinois will only show details on players from Illinois.
COLLEGE PARK, Md. - University of Maryland head baseball coach Erik Bakich today announced the signing of nine student-athletes during the fall signing period in what is the first part of his initial recruiting class at Maryland. The Terps are expected to add a number of recruits to the class when the spring signing period begins in April.
Bakich and his staff, who have made recruiting locally a top priority, signed a number of talented local players, as well as several from across the country. The class features seven prep players and two junior college transfers; six of the seven prep players are ranked in the top two of their respective state rankings.
"We're extremely excited about this first group in the initial signing period," said Bakich. "We expect our current team to build the foundation for a perennial ACC contender. This class will help accelerate the turnaround of Maryland baseball."
The Terps signed the top two ranked players in Maryland in infielder Kyle Convissar and catcher Alex Ramsay, both of Severna Park High School. The pair was critical in leading Severna Park to the 2009 Maryland 4-A state title. Maryland also signed a Gatorade State Player of the Year in Michael Montville (OF/1B) of Portsmouth, N.H. The Terps added another catcher in Patrick Leyland, son of Detroit Tigers manager Jim Leyland, who is a first team Perfect Game USA Preseason Underclassmen All-America selection.
Maryland also added Tim Kiene (1B), the No. 2 prospect in Connecticut; Austin Kilbourne (OF/RHP), the No. 2 prospect in Virginia; Charlie White (OF) of Naperville North High School in Illinois; and two JUCO transfers: David Carroll (RHP) of Western Nevada College and Tomo Delp (INF) of the College of Southern Nevada.
All nine student-athletes will report to campus in the fall of 2010 and be eligible to play in 2011.
Charlie White
OF
Naperville North HS
Naperville, Ill.
White has terrific speed, which made him one of the most highly recruited prospects out of Illinois. He went 5-2 with a 2.72 ERA as a junior, but his speed will make him into an outfielder for Maryland. White also batted .479 with five home runs, 39 RBI, 36 runs scored and 14 stolen bases as a junior.
Nine recruits make up first wave of 2010 class"
Baseball in Illinois will only show details on players from Illinois.
Bakich and his staff, who have made recruiting locally a top priority, signed a number of talented local players, as well as several from across the country. The class features seven prep players and two junior college transfers; six of the seven prep players are ranked in the top two of their respective state rankings.
"We're extremely excited about this first group in the initial signing period," said Bakich. "We expect our current team to build the foundation for a perennial ACC contender. This class will help accelerate the turnaround of Maryland baseball."
The Terps signed the top two ranked players in Maryland in infielder Kyle Convissar and catcher Alex Ramsay, both of Severna Park High School. The pair was critical in leading Severna Park to the 2009 Maryland 4-A state title. Maryland also signed a Gatorade State Player of the Year in Michael Montville (OF/1B) of Portsmouth, N.H. The Terps added another catcher in Patrick Leyland, son of Detroit Tigers manager Jim Leyland, who is a first team Perfect Game USA Preseason Underclassmen All-America selection.
Maryland also added Tim Kiene (1B), the No. 2 prospect in Connecticut; Austin Kilbourne (OF/RHP), the No. 2 prospect in Virginia; Charlie White (OF) of Naperville North High School in Illinois; and two JUCO transfers: David Carroll (RHP) of Western Nevada College and Tomo Delp (INF) of the College of Southern Nevada.
All nine student-athletes will report to campus in the fall of 2010 and be eligible to play in 2011.
Charlie White
OF
Naperville North HS
Naperville, Ill.
White has terrific speed, which made him one of the most highly recruited prospects out of Illinois. He went 5-2 with a 2.72 ERA as a junior, but his speed will make him into an outfielder for Maryland. White also batted .479 with five home runs, 39 RBI, 36 runs scored and 14 stolen bases as a junior.
Quincy University nets Richwoods diamond gem - Peoria, IL - pjstar.com
Quincy University nets Richwoods diamond gem - Peoria, IL - pjstar.com: "Quincy University nets Richwoods diamond gem"
PEORIA ILLINOIS — Richwoods’ shortstop/pitcher Peter Cunningham has committed to
Quincy University, an NCAA Division II school.
Cunningham had received interest from Bradley, Evansville and Southern Illinois.
When his athletic scholarhsip is combined with his academic scholarship, he will have a 100 percent scholarship; the fact that Cunningham’s older brother, Adam, currently plays at Quincy and, finally, he could play right away.
“It was almost a perfect fit,” said Cunningham, who has made both the Journal Star all-area football and baseball teams. “Having been there several times with Adam, I’m very comfortable with the school and the coaching staff.”
And that coaching staff, headed by Brian Unger, has big plans for Cunningham as he’ll play shortstop and pitch — a rarity in the college game.
“They’re going to throw me in there right away,” Cunningham said. “That was one of the main reasons.”
PEORIA ILLINOIS — Richwoods’ shortstop/pitcher Peter Cunningham has committed to
Cunningham had received interest from Bradley, Evansville and Southern Illinois.
When his athletic scholarhsip is combined with his academic scholarship, he will have a 100 percent scholarship; the fact that Cunningham’s older brother, Adam, currently plays at Quincy and, finally, he could play right away.
“It was almost a perfect fit,” said Cunningham, who has made both the Journal Star all-area football and baseball teams. “Having been there several times with Adam, I’m very comfortable with the school and the coaching staff.”
And that coaching staff, headed by Brian Unger, has big plans for Cunningham as he’ll play shortstop and pitch — a rarity in the college game.
“They’re going to throw me in there right away,” Cunningham said. “That was one of the main reasons.”
Eastern Michigan University Athletics - Baseball Signs Five For 2011 Season
Eastern Michigan University Athletics - Baseball Signs Five For 2011 Season: "Baseball Signs Five For 2011 Season
Jay Alexander announces five players have signed the National Letter of Intent for the 2011 season"
Baseball in Illinois will only show details on the players from Illinois.
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) – Eastern Michigan University head baseball coach Jay Alexander has announced five student-athletes have committed to EMU in the early fall signing period. Darren Burks (Matteson, Illinois.-Rich South), Adam Dennison (Broadview Heights, Ohio-Padua Franciscan), Derek Long (Gilbert, Ariz.-Mesquite), Lee Longo (Gates Mills, Ohio-Mayfield) and junior college transfer Brian Hill (Flagstaff, Ariz.- Sinagua-Phoenix College) have committed to EMU for the 2011 season.
“I am excited about this class and the outstanding job our coaching staff has done in bringing in student-athletes who have the ability to make an immediate impact,” Alexander said. “All of the early signees are exceptional students in the classroom as well as on the field. I believe we brought the best kids in to fit our system and they will be a welcome addition to the EMU baseball family.”
Burks, a 6-foot-2 outfielder with a very athletic frame, has been clocked in the 60 yard dash at 6.5 seconds. Burks has a strong arm, good bat, and game changing speed that will be put to use immediately.
Jay Alexander announces five players have signed the National Letter of Intent for the 2011 season"
Baseball in Illinois will only show details on the players from Illinois.
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) – Eastern Michigan University head baseball coach Jay Alexander has announced five student-athletes have committed to EMU in the early fall signing period. Darren Burks (Matteson, Illinois.-Rich South), Adam Dennison (Broadview Heights, Ohio-Padua Franciscan), Derek Long (Gilbert, Ariz.-Mesquite), Lee Longo (Gates Mills, Ohio-Mayfield) and junior college transfer Brian Hill (Flagstaff, Ariz.- Sinagua-Phoenix College) have committed to EMU for the 2011 season.
“I am excited about this class and the outstanding job our coaching staff has done in bringing in student-athletes who have the ability to make an immediate impact,” Alexander said. “All of the early signees are exceptional students in the classroom as well as on the field. I believe we brought the best kids in to fit our system and they will be a welcome addition to the EMU baseball family.”
Burks, a 6-foot-2 outfielder with a very athletic frame, has been clocked in the 60 yard dash at 6.5 seconds. Burks has a strong arm, good bat, and game changing speed that will be put to use immediately.
McHenryCountySports.com | Prairie Ridge outfielder Kaczmarski will play D-I
McHenryCountySports.com PR outfielder Kaczmarski will play D-I:
In baseball parlance, Kevin Kaczmarski’s list of colleges in which he was most interested sprayed to all fields.
The Prairie Ridge senior center fielder heard the most from one large NCAA Division I school (Illinois), one small one (Evansville, Ind.) and one NAIA (St. Xavier in Chicago).
Kaczmarski admits he had doubts about the size of Evansville, a school of about 3,000 students, until he saw the Missouri Valley Conference school. Kaczmarski loved the place and committed to the Purple Aces’ coaching staff last week. Kaczmarski said his athletic scholarship offer covered about 70 percent of tuition and fees.
“It was actually the only visit [to a D-I school] I made,” he said. “It’s a smaller school, and I didn’t know if I’d like it, but it was really nice. I liked it.”
Kaczmarski was a Northwest Herald All-Area first-team selection last spring when he helped the Wolves to a 29-8 record and the Fox Valley Conference Fox Division championship. Kaczmarski, a left-handed leadoff hitter, hit .426 with three home runs and 23 RBIs, and also stole 33 bases in 39 attempts.
During his sophomore season, Kaczmarski was called up for the Wolves’ postseason run to the IHSA Class 4A state championship and utilized as a pinch-runner.
Kaczmarski was scouted heavily over the summer, when he was invited to the prestigious Area Code Games tryouts in the Chicago area, and represented the FVC in the Stevenson Showcase. Evansville called him July 1, the first day D-I coaches could call recruits.
Prairie Ridge coach Glen Pecoraro said SIU-Edwardsville, Creighton and Villanova were other D-I programs that showed interest in Kaczmarski.
“[Evansville] was one of the first teams to talk to me,” Kaczmarski said. “They’re losing some outfielders after this year. They said they don’t have a true center fielder, so that’s what I could be starting off. They want me in the leadoff spot.”
Pecoraro said Kaczmarski was interested in Illinois, but the Fighting Illini’s scholarship offer was not substantial.
“I told him, ‘Go where they want you,’ ” Pecoraro said. “I think he really made a good decision. The Missouri Valley’s one of the best conferences in the country. He’s a great kid who will get along with everybody.”
The Prairie Ridge senior center fielder heard the most from one large NCAA Division I school (Illinois), one small one (Evansville, Ind.) and one NAIA (St. Xavier in Chicago).
Kaczmarski admits he had doubts about the size of Evansville, a school of about 3,000 students, until he saw the Missouri Valley Conference school. Kaczmarski loved the place and committed to the Purple Aces’ coaching staff last week. Kaczmarski said his athletic scholarship offer covered about 70 percent of tuition and fees.
“It was actually the only visit [to a D-I school] I made,” he said. “It’s a smaller school, and I didn’t know if I’d like it, but it was really nice. I liked it.”
Kaczmarski was a Northwest Herald All-Area first-team selection last spring when he helped the Wolves to a 29-8 record and the Fox Valley Conference Fox Division championship. Kaczmarski, a left-handed leadoff hitter, hit .426 with three home runs and 23 RBIs, and also stole 33 bases in 39 attempts.
During his sophomore season, Kaczmarski was called up for the Wolves’ postseason run to the IHSA Class 4A state championship and utilized as a pinch-runner.
Kaczmarski was scouted heavily over the summer, when he was invited to the prestigious Area Code Games tryouts in the Chicago area, and represented the FVC in the Stevenson Showcase. Evansville called him July 1, the first day D-I coaches could call recruits.
Prairie Ridge coach Glen Pecoraro said SIU-Edwardsville, Creighton and Villanova were other D-I programs that showed interest in Kaczmarski.
“[Evansville] was one of the first teams to talk to me,” Kaczmarski said. “They’re losing some outfielders after this year. They said they don’t have a true center fielder, so that’s what I could be starting off. They want me in the leadoff spot.”
Pecoraro said Kaczmarski was interested in Illinois, but the Fighting Illini’s scholarship offer was not substantial.
“I told him, ‘Go where they want you,’ ” Pecoraro said. “I think he really made a good decision. The Missouri Valley’s one of the best conferences in the country. He’s a great kid who will get along with everybody.”
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Independent Professional Baseball Stadiums in Illinois
Many of you are probably not aware of the Independent professional baseball teams in Illinois along with where they are located at where they play. Well...you are in luck! Below are pictures of the stadiums along with addresses and phone numbers of the teams in Illinois.
Gateway Grizzlies
Silver Cross Field
Lake County Fielders
McHenry County K-Nines
Normal Cornbelters
Rockford Riverhawks
Road Ranger Stadium
Alexian Field
Southern Illinois Miners
Windy City Thunderbolts
Gateway Grizzlies GCS Ballpark
618-338-3000 Capacity of 6,000 Capacity
Located in Sauget, Illinois
Joliet Jackhammers
Silver Cross Field815-726-BALL
Capacity 6,500
Located in Joliet Illinois
Lake County Fielders 847-731-8000
Capacity 8,000
Located in Zion Illinois
850 Green Bay Road
Under Construction
McHenry County K-Nines 815-355-0085
Capacity 6,200
Located in Woodstock, IL
Under Construction
Normal Cornbelters The Corn Crib
309-454-2255
Capacity of 6,000
Located at Heartland Community College Normal, Illinois
Under Construction
Rockford Riverhawks 
Road Ranger Stadium815-885-BALL
Capacity 3,079
Located in Loves Park, IL
Schaumburg Flyers
Alexian Field847-891-2255
Capacity 6,000
Located in Schaumburg, IL
Southern Illinois Miners Rent One Park
618-998-8499
Capacity 5,000
Located in Marion, IL
Windy City Thunderbolts Standard Bank Stadium
708-489-2255
Capacity 3,200
Located in Crestwood, IL
Sox decline arbitration to four players | whitesox.com: News
Sox decline arbitration to four players whitesox.com: News: "Sox decline arbitration to four players
Dye, Dotel's stock could be boosted on open market"
By Scott Merkin / MLB.com
12/01/09 1:55 PM EST
CHICAGO ILLINOIS -- The White Sox have decided against offering salary arbitration to their free agents, outfielder Jermaine Dye, right-handed reliever Octavio Dotel, outfielder Scott Podsednik and backup catcher Ramon Castro, a decision needing to be made by 11 p.m. CT on Tuesday.
And in the process of coming to this financial conclusion, they might have helped Dotel's value on the open market.
Both Dotel and Dye were classified as Type-A free agents, meaning if salary arbitration was offered and declined by either player, the White Sox could receive two Draft picks in return from the team eventually coming to terms with either one. Attaching that compensation to an individual such as Dotel, a talented hurler who still finds himself in the middle of a loaded free-agent relief pool that includes closers such as Mike Gonzalez, Billy Wagner, Fernando Rodney, Jose Valverde and Rafael Soriano, could cause potential suitors to shy away.
In an economic climate where cultivating and hanging on to young talent has become imperative, teams have been less inclined to pursue Type-A free agents who could cost them a first-round pick. Dotel and Dye could have accepted salary arbitration if the White Sox offered, meaning the team probably would have added on close to $18 million of payroll based on the players' respective salaries in 2009, through two players who don't appear to be in the franchise's plans moving forward. The White Sox invoked a $950,000 buyout on Dye after the 2009 season, instead of picking up a $12 million mutual option for '10.
Castro and Podsednik did not receive a free-agent rating, so no Draft picks as compensation would have been involved. Podsednik, an elite speedster and quality option at the top of the order, remains in the White Sox picture for '10, although on the fringe, at this point. Podsednik's camp is looking for a multi-year deal, while the White Sox aren't willing to go more than one year.
Scott Merkin is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
Dye, Dotel's stock could be boosted on open market"
By Scott Merkin / MLB.com
12/01/09 1:55 PM EST
And in the process of coming to this financial conclusion, they might have helped Dotel's value on the open market.
Both Dotel and Dye were classified as Type-A free agents, meaning if salary arbitration was offered and declined by either player, the White Sox could receive two Draft picks in return from the team eventually coming to terms with either one. Attaching that compensation to an individual such as Dotel, a talented hurler who still finds himself in the middle of a loaded free-agent relief pool that includes closers such as Mike Gonzalez, Billy Wagner, Fernando Rodney, Jose Valverde and Rafael Soriano, could cause potential suitors to shy away.
In an economic climate where cultivating and hanging on to young talent has become imperative, teams have been less inclined to pursue Type-A free agents who could cost them a first-round pick. Dotel and Dye could have accepted salary arbitration if the White Sox offered, meaning the team probably would have added on close to $18 million of payroll based on the players' respective salaries in 2009, through two players who don't appear to be in the franchise's plans moving forward. The White Sox invoked a $950,000 buyout on Dye after the 2009 season, instead of picking up a $12 million mutual option for '10.
Castro and Podsednik did not receive a free-agent rating, so no Draft picks as compensation would have been involved. Podsednik, an elite speedster and quality option at the top of the order, remains in the White Sox picture for '10, although on the fringe, at this point. Podsednik's camp is looking for a multi-year deal, while the White Sox aren't willing to go more than one year.
Scott Merkin is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
Cubs decline arbitration to four players | cubs.com: News
Cubs decline arbitration to four players cubs.com: News: "Cubs decline arbitration to four players
Chicago won't get compensation if Gregg, Harden leave"
By Carrie Muskat / MLB.com
12/01/09 3:34 PM EST
CHICAGO ILLINOIS -- The Cubs did not offer arbitration to Kevin Gregg, Rich Harden, Reed Johnson and Chad Fox by Tuesday's deadline.
By not offering arbitration, the Cubs will not receive any compensation in the Draft if another team signs Gregg or Harden. The Elias Sports Bureau classified Gregg as a Type A free agent, which means if Chicago had offered him arbitration and another club signed him, the Cubs would've received two Draft picks as compensation. Gregg, 31, lost his job as the Cubs' closer in mid-August to Carlos Marmol.
Harden, who turned 28 on Monday, was classified as a Type B free agent, and the Cubs would've picked up a supplemental Draft pick if the right-hander was offered arbitration, declined, and then signed with another team. He made 26 starts, his second-highest total since he made 31 in 2004 with Oakland. Harden did make 25 starts combined in 2008 with the Cubs and Athletics.
The Cubs think they have enough starting pitching for 2010 without Harden. The rotation now includes Carlos Zambrano, Ryan Dempster, Randy Wells and Ted Lilly, who had arthroscopic surgery on his left shoulder in early November. The fifth starter can come from a pool that includes Jeff Samardzija, Tom Gorzelanny and Sean Marshall, among others in the system.
If offered arbitration, and the players accepted, the Cubs would've been obligated for at least a one-year contract, and the players would've been in line for a raise. Gregg made $4.2 million in 2009, Harden $7 million and Johnson $3 million.
New Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts has said the payroll will go up only "slightly" in 2010, and the Cubs have to factor in raises to arbitration-eligible players such as Marmol, Marshall, Ryan Theriot, Mike Fontenot and Jeff Baker. Those players are affected by the non-tender deadline of Dec. 12, which is when teams must decide whether to tender a contract. Those players have less than six years of service time, and they are under team control for 2010.
Johnson and Fox were free agents, and neither was included on the Type A or B lists. Fox appeared in two games before being sidelined because of inflammation in his right elbow. Johnson, who turns 33 on Dec. 8, was limited to 65 games because of injuries.
The Cubs are in the market for a center fielder and could still re-sign Johnson, but if they did offer arbitration, they ran the risk of him getting a significant raise.
Carrie Muskat is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
Chicago won't get compensation if Gregg, Harden leave"
By Carrie Muskat / MLB.com
12/01/09 3:34 PM EST
By not offering arbitration, the Cubs will not receive any compensation in the Draft if another team signs Gregg or Harden. The Elias Sports Bureau classified Gregg as a Type A free agent, which means if Chicago had offered him arbitration and another club signed him, the Cubs would've received two Draft picks as compensation. Gregg, 31, lost his job as the Cubs' closer in mid-August to Carlos Marmol.
Harden, who turned 28 on Monday, was classified as a Type B free agent, and the Cubs would've picked up a supplemental Draft pick if the right-hander was offered arbitration, declined, and then signed with another team. He made 26 starts, his second-highest total since he made 31 in 2004 with Oakland. Harden did make 25 starts combined in 2008 with the Cubs and Athletics.
The Cubs think they have enough starting pitching for 2010 without Harden. The rotation now includes Carlos Zambrano, Ryan Dempster, Randy Wells and Ted Lilly, who had arthroscopic surgery on his left shoulder in early November. The fifth starter can come from a pool that includes Jeff Samardzija, Tom Gorzelanny and Sean Marshall, among others in the system.
If offered arbitration, and the players accepted, the Cubs would've been obligated for at least a one-year contract, and the players would've been in line for a raise. Gregg made $4.2 million in 2009, Harden $7 million and Johnson $3 million.
New Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts has said the payroll will go up only "slightly" in 2010, and the Cubs have to factor in raises to arbitration-eligible players such as Marmol, Marshall, Ryan Theriot, Mike Fontenot and Jeff Baker. Those players are affected by the non-tender deadline of Dec. 12, which is when teams must decide whether to tender a contract. Those players have less than six years of service time, and they are under team control for 2010.
Johnson and Fox were free agents, and neither was included on the Type A or B lists. Fox appeared in two games before being sidelined because of inflammation in his right elbow. Johnson, who turns 33 on Dec. 8, was limited to 65 games because of injuries.
The Cubs are in the market for a center fielder and could still re-sign Johnson, but if they did offer arbitration, they ran the risk of him getting a significant raise.
Carrie Muskat is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Peoria Chiefs: News: Article
Peoria Chiefs: News: Article: "Beloved Chiefs mascot signs new contract for 2010 season and beyond
By Nathan Baliva / Peoria Chiefs"
Peoria, IL - The Peoria Chiefs announced on Tuesday that despite recent rumors to the contrary, their beloved mascot Homer has signed a new lifetime contract to remain in Central Illinois. With his previous five-year contract ending Monday night, speculation had been running wild that Homer may leave Peoria to take over as head football coach at Notre Dame.
"This is where I want to be," Homer said Tuesday through his spokesman Lucas Smith. "Notre Dame football is a dream job for some people and it is humbling to be considered. But when it comes down to it, this is where I want to be working for as long as they'll have me."
The rumors started a couple of weeks ago when Homer's name was linked in an online report as a possible successor to fired football coach Charlie Weis. Despite having no prior football coaching experience, certain Notre Dame boosters were pushing hard for Homer to get the job and return Notre Dame football to its glory days. It is unclear when Notre Dame officials first contacted Homer or if they made an official offer. But with the Chiefs coming off an 81-win season and a playoff appearance, the timing was right for Homer to renew his contract.
"I can't help what's said in the press or online," stated Homer in a conference call with reporters. "I fully intend to be in Peoria and hopefully for a good while. You never know what the good lord brings you, but in the end I couldn't be more excited with the quality of players coming through this organization and with the great fans that support us night in and night out. I couldn't be more pleased about what we are doing here in Peoria and what the future holds."
The new contract for Homer makes him the highest paid dog mascot in the Midwest League. "This deal gives me a lifetime of security," Homer said in a prepared statement. "I now have more bones than I know what to do with and it allows me to get more costumes for our outstanding and unique 2010 theme nights and promotions at O'Brien Field."
The Chiefs are also thrilled with the deal from their end and happy to put a close to the rampant rumors both online and in the local community.
"The rumors the last few weeks weighed heavily on everyone in the organization," said Chiefs President Rocky Vonachen. "Notre Dame is a great institution but we think Homer made the right decision and we are beyond excited to keep him in Central Illinois for 2010 and the foreseeable future. This new contract is to the benefit of everyone involved and we wish Notre Dame well in their coaching search, they just aren't going to get one of ours!"
With Homer back in the fold, the O'Brien Field Fan Zone will continue selling Homer merchandise along with other Chiefs items throughout the Holiday season. The Fan Zone is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. while season and group tickets are available by calling 309-680-4000 or visiting www.peoriachiefs.com
This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.
By Nathan Baliva / Peoria Chiefs"
"This is where I want to be," Homer said Tuesday through his spokesman Lucas Smith. "Notre Dame football is a dream job for some people and it is humbling to be considered. But when it comes down to it, this is where I want to be working for as long as they'll have me."
The rumors started a couple of weeks ago when Homer's name was linked in an online report as a possible successor to fired football coach Charlie Weis. Despite having no prior football coaching experience, certain Notre Dame boosters were pushing hard for Homer to get the job and return Notre Dame football to its glory days. It is unclear when Notre Dame officials first contacted Homer or if they made an official offer. But with the Chiefs coming off an 81-win season and a playoff appearance, the timing was right for Homer to renew his contract.
"I can't help what's said in the press or online," stated Homer in a conference call with reporters. "I fully intend to be in Peoria and hopefully for a good while. You never know what the good lord brings you, but in the end I couldn't be more excited with the quality of players coming through this organization and with the great fans that support us night in and night out. I couldn't be more pleased about what we are doing here in Peoria and what the future holds."
The new contract for Homer makes him the highest paid dog mascot in the Midwest League. "This deal gives me a lifetime of security," Homer said in a prepared statement. "I now have more bones than I know what to do with and it allows me to get more costumes for our outstanding and unique 2010 theme nights and promotions at O'Brien Field."
The Chiefs are also thrilled with the deal from their end and happy to put a close to the rampant rumors both online and in the local community.
"The rumors the last few weeks weighed heavily on everyone in the organization," said Chiefs President Rocky Vonachen. "Notre Dame is a great institution but we think Homer made the right decision and we are beyond excited to keep him in Central Illinois for 2010 and the foreseeable future. This new contract is to the benefit of everyone involved and we wish Notre Dame well in their coaching search, they just aren't going to get one of ours!"
With Homer back in the fold, the O'Brien Field Fan Zone will continue selling Homer merchandise along with other Chiefs items throughout the Holiday season. The Fan Zone is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. while season and group tickets are available by calling 309-680-4000 or visiting www.peoriachiefs.com
This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.
Scott Heelan Signs Letters of Intent to play baseball at Virginia Tech
Athletes Sign Letters of Intent: "Athletes Sign Letters of Intent"
Warren High school in Gurnee Illinois:
Scott Heelan signed a letter of intent to play baseball at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. Presenting at the signing ceremony from left are assistant baseball coaches Greg Piggott and Rick Hill, Heelan and Clint Smothers, Warren’s head baseball coach.
Having a Division I player come out of Warren is hardly news these days. Sean Kennedy, a 2009 graduate, is pitching for Jacksonville University.
Two ex-Blue Devils, Andrew Wolcott (Duke) and Adam Worthington (Illinois-Chicago), are pitching for the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Scott Heelan signed a letter of intent to play baseball at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. Presenting at the signing ceremony from left are assistant baseball coaches Greg Piggott and Rick Hill, Heelan and Clint Smothers, Warren’s head baseball coach.
Having a Division I player come out of Warren is hardly news these days. Sean Kennedy, a 2009 graduate, is pitching for Jacksonville University.
Two ex-Blue Devils, Andrew Wolcott (Duke) and Adam Worthington (Illinois-Chicago), are pitching for the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)