Opposition Research: Washburn Ichabods

The B2R cannot make this weekend's games as I promised Mrs. B2R we could go visit her family in Omaha.  Since I can't give my fiery pre-game rally speech to the guys, the motivational video has to do.  The 'Cats start an 8-game play-off with a double-header on Saturday versus Washburn.  Statistically, the two teams match-up 50/50.  Washburn can catch and pitch the ball better.  Northwest can rake.  Northwest's pitching trends has me excited about the Bearcats' chances this weekend as the starters are settling in nicely.  Defensively, the Cats need improved focus and better execution.  If the Bearcats play mistake free defense in Game 1 then I believe the 'Cats win by 3 or more runs.  B2R's predictions for Games 1 & 2:

Game 1 - WU 4 NW 7
Game 2 - WU 4 NW 7

Believe it.

               VERSUS






Opposition Research - Washburn Ichabods (20-19, 16-16 MIAA)(Tied for 6th place)
2-game double-header on Saturday - First pitch set for 1pm
2-game double-header on Sunday - First pitch set for 12pm.
 
Team by Team Comparison:

Batting Average:

NWMSU - 5th in MIAA with .313
WU - 6th in MIAA with .308

ERA

WU - 5th in MIAA with 4.41
NWMSU - 8th in MIAA with 6.39

Fielding Percentage

WU - 4th in MIAA with .963
NWMSU - 9th in MIAA with .950

Slugging Percentage

NWMSU - 4th in MIAA with .466
WU - 5th in MIAA with .457

On-Base Percentage

NWMSU - 3rd in MIAA with .405
WU - 7th in MIAA with .379

Runs Scored

NWMSU - 3rd in MIAA with 284
WU - 9th in MIAA with 213

Hits

NWMSU - 3rd in MIAA with 423
WU - 7th in MIAA with 380

RBIs

NWMSU - 4th in MIAA with 246
WU - 7th in MIAA with 200

Home runs
NWMSU - 2nd in MIAA with 34
WU - 4th in MIAA with 31

Walks
NWMSU - 2nd in MIAA with 157
WU - 6th in MIAA with 113

Hit by Pitch
NWMSU - 1st in MIAA with 64
WU - 6th in MIAA with 39

Strike-outs
WU - 3rd in MIAA with 245
NWMSU - 1st in MIAA with 273

Stolen Bases
WU - 3rd in MIAA with 56
NWMSU - 5th in MIAA with 50

Opposing Batting Averages
WU - 4th in MIAA with .280
NWMSU - 9th in MIAA with .323

Batters struck-out
WU - 6th in MIAA with 197
NWMSU - 9th in MIAA with 183

Runners picked-off
NWMSU - 1st in MIAA with 14
WU - 6th in MIAA with 6

Hits allowed
WU - 2nd in MIAA with 329
NWMSU - 11th in MIAA with 439

Runs Allowed
WU - 5th in MIAA with 181
NWMSU - 8th in MIAA with 286

Walks Allowed
WU - 3rd in MIAA with 101
NWMSU - 10th in MIAA with 151

# of times each team led a category listed above
NWMSU 10 categories
WU 9 categories

Sunday Recap: Pitt State (Games 3 & 4 only)

Opening Remarks - The B2R's heart goes out to the Bearcat Baseball team making a long road trek back to Maryville after losing 4 much needed games at Pitt State this weekend.  I know the guys must be frustrated.  Kudos to the fans that made the trip to support the Bearcats as I saw several regulars in Pittsburg, Kansas, on Saturday.  So where do I start with this recap?  I've got an idea.  How about this:

THE PLAY-OFFS START SATURDAY, APRIL 28TH VERSUS WASHBURN IN MARYVILLE.

The fact remains is a .500 conference record has historically been good enough to make the post-season tournament.  The Bearcats still control their own destiny with a 13-19 conference record.  But the play-offs start this weekend.  The Bearcats can take tonight to like their wounds, but Monday is countdown to the play-offs versus Washburn.  Northwest has the final 8 games of its schedule in the friendly confines of Bearcat Field including Senior weekend.  I figure that the Bearcats need to look at life as playing an 8-game season with Game 1 versus a good Washburn team coming off getting swept themselves commencing Saturday.  I steadfastly believe the Bearcats have the talent, the heart, and the burning desire to beat anybody, anytime, anywhere.  I believe the "here we go again" doubt creeps in the minds and ends up coming true.  But you know what?  Screw that.  Screw what has happened in the past.  This is the Bearcats time and the 2012 play-offs start for the Bearcats this Saturday.  Its starts with pitching and defense and living in the moment.  Don't worry about what happened before, what happens next, doesn't matter.  So what.  Live in the moment.  Play-offs, baby.  Believe it.


In Game 3, Northwest lost 5-7 to Pitt State in a 7-inning affair to see their 2012 record fall to 14-27, 13-18 MIAA.  Offensively, the Bearcats scored 5 runs off of 8 hits, 3 RBIs, 4 walks, 4 strike-outs, and left 8 runners on base.  Steven Garber led the way with 3 hits in 4 official plate appearances, 1 RBI.  Just as impressive, Jake Kretzer went 2 for 3 with 2 doubles, and got hit by a pitch.  Eric McGlauflin went 1 for 3 with 1 run scored, 1 walk, 2 strike-outs.  Charlie Krueger went 1 for 1 in a pinch hitting role and JJ Baccari went 1 for 1 (double) in a pinch hitting role with 1 RBI and 1 run scored.

Defensively, the Bearcats committed 2 errors which led to 3 unearned runs.

Sean Brady earned the start in the game but saw his record fall to 2-2 after he worked 2.0 innings, allowed 3 hits, 2 runs (1 earned), 0 walks and 0 strike-outs.  All 6 outs that Sean earned were ground-outs.  Carson Smith came in relief of Sean and worked 3.1 innings, allowed 8 hits, 5 runs (only 3 earned), 2 walks, 1 strike-out, 1 wild pitch.  All of Carson's outs were ground-outs except for his strike-out.  Josh Parrish came in to close out the game and worked 0.2 innings, allowed 0 hits, 0 runs, 0 walks, and struck-out 1 batter.

The game took 2:09 to complete and was played in 56 degree weather with a stiff breeze.

In Game 4, Northwest lost 4-5 to see their 2012 record fall to 14-28, 13-19 MIAA and therefore got swept by the Gorillas in the 4-game series.  Offensively, Northwest scored 4 runs off of 9 hits, 2 RBIs, 2 walks, 5 strike-outs, and left 9 runners on base.  Jon Pomatto led the way with 2 hits in 3 official plate appearances and 1 run scored.  Eric McGlauflin went 2 for 4 (including a double).  Cameron Bedard went 1 for 4 (a double) with 1 RBI.  Eric Swain went 1 for 4 with 1 run scored, 1 walk, and 1 stolen base.  Steven Garber went 1 for 2 (a double) with 1 RBI, 1 run scored, and 1 walk.  Landinn Eckhardt went 1 for 3 (a double).  JJ Baccari went 1 for 1 in a pinch hitting role.

Defensively, the Bearcats committed 3 errors which led to 4 unearned runs.


Chris Green got the start and worked 7.0 innings, allowed 4 hits, 2 runs (1 earned), 3 walks, 6 strike-outs, 3 wild pitches.  Josh Parrish came in to relieve Chris and worked 1.0 inning, allowed 3 hits, 3 runs (all unearned), 0 walks, 0 strike-outs, 1 wild pitch.

Go Cats!!
###

Maryville Daily Forum: Eckhardt proves invaluable as catcher

Landinn is one of the two players that I wear their name and number on a t-shirt.  He's a remarkable kid and ballplayer.  Here's a neat article about him in the Maryville Daily Forum:

 

 

Maryville, Mo. —Northwest Missouri State's recent improvements on the mound can, in part, be attributed to Landinn Eckhardt's increased presence behind the plate. Since Eckhardt won back the starting catching job he held all of last season, Northwest has lowered its team ERA by almost a full run from 7.20 to 6.24.

 Aware of Eckhardt's defensive prowess, Northwest Missouri State head coach Darin Loe doesn't see this as a coincidence.

"He just knows how to frame pitches so well," said Loe. "He gets us a lot of strikes on both parts of the plate, and he doesn't have the strongest arm, but he makes accurate throws to second."  A St. Joseph native, Eckhardt started all 50 games behind the dish last year, but hit a team-low .187 in a lineup hat ranked near the bottom of the MIAA.  With the Bearcats trying to bolster their attack this year, Eckhardt was moved to the bench in favor of junior college transfer Travis Green who possesses a stronger bat.  He started just four of the team's first 29 games and pinch-hit in a hand-full of others.

An injury to Green allowed Eckhardt to regain his starting job, and he's seized the opportunity both with his defense and his bat...

Read more by following this hyperlink:  Eckhardt proves invaluable as catcher

Go Cats!!
###

Saturday Recap: Pitt State (Games 1 & 2 only)

Opening Remarks - The B2R traveled down with young Alex to catch Saturday's double-header versus Pitt State in Pittsburg, Kansas, in a highly anticipated match-up between 2 teams attempting to qualify for the play-offs.  Pitt State has a nice baseball field but forgot basic fan amenities such as a food cart to sell drinks, candy, to fans, or restrooms.  With nice dugouts, playing surfaces, bleachers for fan seating, netting, and good sight lines through-out, it looks like Pitt State went cheap or wasn't concerned with providing for fans attending the game.  With that said, I'm not sure how the Pitt State Gorillas intend to provide for their team during long double-headers as there is nothing for them to go buy to eat or drink (except for a gas station some 2-3 blocks away).  The B2R Chow line was a success as the guys quickly finished-off traditional ballpark fare (read below).  The team seemed in good spirits heading into game one.  I heard a few comments about "we need 4" which meant the guys were wanting to play perfect baseball.  While that's always the goal, the Cats play better when they relax and are focused versus pressing and stressed.  Games 1 & 2 outcomes were statistical anomalies based on Pitt State's performances in 2012 but in-line with what happens when the 'Cats press and put too much pressure on themselves to score 5 runs in each at-bat or throw a no-no when we need to induce ground-ball contact.

The B2R loves the Bearcats.  Loves, Loves, Loves the Bearcats.  I am convinced if they believe in themselves as much as I believe in them, that better results will come.  The good thing heading into Games 3 & 4 is that Pitt State has been searching for starters for those games all season long with no one clearly stepping-up (multiple pitchers on PSU's roster have 3-5 starts).  Northwest can tag the starters early in Games 3 & 4 if they relax and trust their abilities.  PSU will have to stay with their starters as long as possible because the PSU bullpen is statistically not impressive.  B2R is looking for some good things on Sunday.

In Game 1, Northwest lost 5-10 to Pitt State in Pittsburgh, Kansas, on a beautiful sunny and warm day.  Chase Anderson earned the Game 1 Start but picked-up the loss in the game and saw his 2012 record fall to 4-6.  In total, Chase worked 3.2 innings, allowed 9 hits, 8 runs (7 earned), walked 2 and struck-out 2.  Nathaniel Horton came in relief of Chase and worked 1.1 innings, allowed 2 hits, 0 runs, 1 strike-out.  Pat Brady came in to relieve Horton and only worked 0.1 innings before being pulled.  A tough outing, Pat allowed 1 hit, 3 runs (all earned), walked 2, and struck-out 0.  Nick Caldrone closed out the game and worked 0.2 innings, allowed 1 hit, 0 runs, walked 1, and struck-out 1.

Defensively, the Bearcats were charged with 1 error in the game that led to 1 unearned run.

Offensively, the Bearcats had solid stats but it came at the end of the game when the outcome was not in doubt.  There was a time in the game where things were looking a 7-inning game could get called for the 10-run-rule against the Bearcats.  In total, the 'Cats scored 5 runs off of 7 hits, 3 RBIs, 2 walks, and 10 strike-outs.  Northwest left 5 runners on base.  The Offensive stars included:

 Cameron Bedard - #11
Position - 3B
Went 2 for 3
1 walk
1 run scored
caught stealing on a bang-bang play.

Eric McGlauflin - #21
Position - DH
Went 2 for 4
1 run scored

Eric Swain - #2
Position - SS
Went 1 for 3 (a double)
3 RBIs
1 run scored
Northwest's only RBIs in the game.





Also in the game, Steven Garber went 1 for 1 in a pinch hitting role and scored 1 run.  Cole Mapes went 1 for 3 (a double) in the game and played 2B.

The game took 2:10 to complete and played in front of a nice crowd.

 B2R Chow line - The 'Cats had some tasty bun-length hot dogs prepared for them between the 2 games as well as chips and bottled water.  In total, the 'Cats consumed 80 'dogs, 80 buns, 60 bags of chips, and 48 bottles of water.  There was no comment as to how well the 'dogs were cooked but the B2R did his best to not burn the 'dogs or serve them cold to the team.  Traditional ballpark fare was suggested to change-up the usual sub sandwiches the team had been eating this season.

In Game 2 of the Saturday double-header, Northwest lost 1-10 in a game where nothing seemed to click for the Bearcats:  pitching was off, offense was pressing, defense was not efficient, all which totaled a 2nd straight loss to the frustrated Bearcats.  Jace Anderson earned the Game 2 start and was tagged with the loss in the game to see his 2012 record fall to 2-6.  In total, Jace worked 6.2 innings, allowed 14 hits, 9 runs (all earned), 1 walk, 2 strike-outs, 1 balk.  Carson Smith came in relief of Jace and worked 0.2 innings, allowed 1 hit, 0 runs, 1 strike-out.  Jacob Raffaele came in and worked the final 0.2 innings, and allowed 2 hits, 1 earned run, and struck-out 1 batter.

Defensively, Northwest committed 3 errors which did not lead to any unearned runs but frankly appeared lethargic, a step slow, and plays that should have been routine singles ended-up scored as doubles just because the crispness was not there.  The B2R is not a mind-reader, but reading non-verbals, the 'Cats put a lot of pressure on themselves to win every game this series and seemed deflated in Game 2 after a tough loss in Game 1.

Offensively, Northwest scored 1 run off of 5 hits, 0 RBIs, walked once, struck-out 5, and left 6 runners on base.  In the Game, Tyler Durant, Landinn Eckhardt, Jake Kretzer, and Cole Mapes all earned a base hit in the game.  Landinn scored the 'Cats lone run in the game.

Up Next - Northwest conclude the 4-game series with Pitt State by playing a 2-game double-header on Sunday.  The first pitch is set for noon in Pittsburgh, Kansas.  B2R Chow line will have subs there for the guys as a snack between games.

Sunday's Opposition Research - Pittsburgh State
2012 Record - 16-23
2012 Home Record - 11-9
2012 Away Record - 5-14
2012 MIAA Record - 12-18 (tied for 9th place)
7 starters with batting averages at .299 or better
7 starters with SLG% in the .400+

2012 Offensive team Statistics:
BA - .293
HR - 14
SLG% - .392
OB% - .361
SB/Att - 20/40

2012 Defensive team Statistics:
E - 54 (in 39 games)
FLD% - .957

2012 Pitching team Statistics:
ERA - 7.76
CG - 5
ER - 251 (39 games)
BB - 116
K - 199
Opponents' Batting Average - .333
Game 1 Starter - Stalcup has 3.86 ERA and a 2/1 K/BB ratio.
Game 2 Starter - Stevenson 8.37 ERA
Games 3 & 4 Starters have been variant throughout 2012 season.


Go Cats!!
###

Pump-up for the Play-offs!!!

Go Cats!!!

Beat Pitt State!!
###

MIAA Baseball Standings Update & Analysis

According to the MIAA Conference website, here is the present 2012 baseball standings:

School	MIAA	Overall
Central Mo.	24-4	31-7
Mo. Western St.	20-8	27-11
Emporia St.	16-12	21-15
Washburn	16-12	20-15
Mo. Southern St.	17-15	24-16
Fort Hays St.	16-15	18-18
Northwest Mo. St.	13-15	14-24
Southwest Baptist	12-16	17-20-1
Pittsburg St.	10-18	12-23
Truman	11-21	12-24
Lincoln (Mo.)	4-23	4-31

Northwest is essentially 1.5 games back from Fort Hays State and the 6th and final play-off spot for the MIAA Post-Season Conference Tournament in Kansas City.  Northwest entered last weekend's series with SBU on the wrong-end of a tie for 9th place.

Here is Northwest's remaining 2012 regular season schedule:

At Pitt State (10-18 MIAA, 12-23) this weekend (April 27 & 28)(4 games)(2 & 2)
Home versus Washburn (4th place, 16-12 MIAA, 20-15) (April 28 & 29)(4 games)(2 & 2)
Home versus Lincoln (Last Place, 4-23 MIAA, 4-31)(May 4, 5, & 6)(4 games)(1, 2, 1)

Fort Hays (16-15 MIAA, 6th place) play on the road at SBU this weekend (12-16 MIAA, 17-20-1), then play home versus Missouri Western (2nd, 20-8 MIAA, 27-11).

THE BOTTOM LINE IS OUR NORTHWEST MISSOURI STATE BEARCATS NEED TO QUIT THIS MAMBY-PAMBY CRAP AND GO TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS.  PERIOD.  THEY HAVE OPPORTUNITY RIGHT IN FRONT OF THEM.  NOW.  NOT NEXT YEAR.  NOW.  We all know what happens when the 'Cats lay their heart on the line...they can beat anybody.  We also know what happens when the Bearcats let-up or take the foot off the gas pedal (errors, no offense, and allowing a lot of runs).

Go get'em Cats!!!  The B2R is now going to go watch ROCKY, GLADIATOR, THE PATRIOT, AND 300 to get mentally focused for this weekend.

Go Cats!!
###

Series Re-Cap: SBU (Games 3 & 4)

Ryan Abernathy - #6 - Photo courtesy from northwestbearcats.com the official & preeminent source of the Northwest Missouri State University Athletics Department

Northwest's Article - "Bearcats win key series over SBU"

Northwest lost Game 1 by a score of 1-6 after committing 5 errors in the game and allowing 4 unearned runs.  Chris Green earned the start and picked-up the loss in the game to see his 2012 record fall to 2-4.  In total, Chris worked 4.1 innings, allowed 6 hits, 4 runs (only 2 earned), 4 walks, 4 strike-outs, hit 1 batter, and intentionally walked a batter.  Chris was relieved by Carson Smith in the 5th inning.  Carson worked 1.2 innings to close out the game, allowed 2 hits, 2 runs (both unearned), 2 walks and 2 strike-outs. 

Defensively, Northwest was as messy as the weather as they committed 5 errors that led to 4 unearned runs.

Offensively, Northwest scored 1 run off of 4 hits, 1 RBI, 1 walk, and 4 strike-outs.  Northwest left 5 runners on base.  The Offensive star of the game was Cameron Bedard, who went 2 for 3.  Ryan Abernathy and Landinn Eckhardt both earned a hit in the game.

The game took 1:47 to complete in overcast and windy conditions with 54 fans in attendance.

In Game 2, Northwest came back with a vengeance after game 1 and beat the SBU Bearcats 10-1.  Captain America, Sean Brady, ate his Wheaties Sunday morning and had another superior outing (3-4 consecutive superior performance).  Sean's 2012 record is now 2-1.  In total, Sean pitched 6.0 innings, allowed 3 hits, 1 run unearned, 3 walks, 2 strike-outs, and 1 wild pitch.  Equally impressive was Pat Brady, who worked 1.0 inning, allowed 0 hits, 0 runs, 1 walk, and 2 strike-outs.  The icing on the cake was Josh Parrish's 2.0 innings of superior relief to close out the ballgame, allowing 2 hits, 0 runs, 1 walk, and 1 strike-out.

Offensively, Northwest scored 10 runs off of 10 hits, 9 RBIs, 4 walks, 4 strike-outs, and left 11 runners on base.  The offensive stars include Ryan Abernathy, who went 2 for 6 with 3 RBIs, and 2 runs scored and a stolen base; Eric Swain who went 2 for 6 in the game; Tyler Durant went 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored and 1 walk; and Cole Mapes went 1 for 3 with 3 RBIs.  Cameron Bedard, Eric McGlauflin, and Jake Kretzer all had one hit each in the game.

The game took 2:05 to complete in overcast skies and 56 fans in attendance.

Go Cats!!
###

Series Re-Cap: Southwest Baptist (Games 1 & 2 only)

Opening Remarks:  Northwest earned a much needed 2-game sweep over SBU on Friday thanks in large part to dominant starting pitching by Chase and Jace.  Aside from family, coaches, and teammates, nobody can be more proud of Chase and Jace then the B2R.  Both have worked extremely hard to become the best pitchers they can be.  Both are also great kids. Chase has seemingly had to re-prove himself every year he's been at Northwest.  That's not a bad thing.  Chase went from not traveling with the team to being the MIAA Post-Season Tournament Game 1 starter his freshman year, then going from the 'pen to start his sophomore year back to regular starter, then starting as a Game 4 weekend pitcher to now being a Game 1 weekend pitcher.  If you tell Chase he can't do something, it lights a fire under him.  That's my kind of ballplayer.  Jace comes from the baseball talent-rich area of Omaha, Nebraska.  A successful American Legion player in the ultra-competitive Omaha and Council Bluffs American Legion Circuit, Jace drew attention from the D2 baseball power Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks.  Jace threw for the Mavs in their Regional appearance in 2010.  Jace did not appear in 2011, the Mavs cut 2 championship caliber programs so they could be an after-thought low-major D1 school, meaning the Mavs' loss is the Bearcats' gain.  Kudos to the coaches for sticking with Jace despite his slow start.  Kudos to Jace for not cashing it in and giving up.  It takes a remarkable personal resolve to go out in live fire over and over again when the success hasn't been there.  Way to go Chase and Jace.

Let's also give credit to the Northwest defense and offense.  We all know that this is a very special offensive team.  Defense has had a tough go.  Northwest was locked-in on Friday.  Everything came together, but I believe it starts with defense.  Good job Bearcats!!

Saturday is very important.  Northwest needs to lock in on Game 1 and focus on winning every pitch, every inning of Game 1.  Saturday's Game 1 is now the most important game of the 2012 season.  You cannot win 2 games in Game 1.  Win Game 1.  Go Cats!!

Northwest won Game 1 by a score 5-3 to advance their 2012 record to 12-23 (11-14 MIAA).  Chase Anderson got the start and picked-up his 4th win in 2012 to advance his season record to 4-5.  Chase had another superior outing and worked a complete game 7.0 innings, allowed 9 hits, 3 runs (all earned), 0 walks, and 3 strike-outs.

Defensively, Northwest played a superior game and were not charged with an error.

Offensively, Northwest scored 5 runs off of 10 hits, 4 RBIs, 3 walks, 3 strike-outs, and left 6 runners on base.  The three offensive stars of the game included Tyler Durant, who went 2 for 4 with 1 RBI and 1 run scored, Jake Kretzer, who went 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored, and Cole Mapes, who went 2 for 2 with 1 RBI and a walk.  Abernathy, Bedard, McGlauflin, and Garber all earned a hit in the game.

In Game 2, Northwest won 10-3 after a dominant, 9-inning complete game masterpiece by Jace Anderson.  Northwest saw its 2012 record improve to 13-23, 12-14 MIAA.  In total, Jace threw 9.0 innings, allowed 9 hits, 3 runs (all earned), 1 walk, 6 strike-outs, 1 wild pitch, and hit 1 batter.  Jace advanced his 2012 record to 2-5 with the victory.

Defensively, Northwest played a real solid game and were charged with 1 error that did not lead to an unearned run.

Offensively, Northwest scored 10 runs off of 13 hits, 9 RBIs, 3 walks, 6 strike-outs, and left 12 runners on base.  The Offensive stars included Eric Swain, who went 3 for 5 (1 double, 2 home runs - Yeah babies!!), 4 RBIs (M-V-P!!  M-V-P!!), and 2 runs scored, Ryan Abernathy, who went 2 for 4 with 1 RBI, 1 run scored, and 2 walks, Eric McGlauflin, who went 2 for 6 with a run scored, and Landinn Eckhardt, who went 3 for 4, with 1 RBI, and 2 runs scored.  Bedard, Durant, and Garber all earned 1 hit in the game.

Go Cats!!
###

Opposition Research: Southwest Baptist

Opening Remarks - I'm interested to see if Northwest's starting pitching has turned the corner after a tremendously successful weekend versus Missouri Western last weekend.  Were the guys fired-up for that weekend or have they made adjustments to execute better pitches?  Time will soon tell.  Here's hoping the Cats tweaked their deliveries so the starters can do deep in the games.  Last Tuesday's game was a bit of an abnormality as Northwest essentially pitched their relief guys from beginning to end.  The defense needs to keep their focus in the game and keep the errors to 1 or less per game for the series.  The offense should get its hacks but the guys should focus on their defense, too.  The Bearcats have shown they can win baseball games if their defense is humming, but the 'Cats can also show they can lose games if their offense is humming but defense and pitching lapse.  Northwest needs to focus on winning Game 1 on Friday and stay away from thinking (we've got to win 3 of 4 or else).  You can't hit a 5-run home run just like you can't win 5 games in a day's double-header.  Win Game 1.  All out.  All in.  Go Cats!!

Southwest Baptist University Bearcats
2012 Record - 16-17-1 (11-13 MIAA)
2012 Home Record - 14-9-1
2012 Road Record - 2-8

Weekend's Schedule - a double-header (7/9) on Friday with first pitch at 12pm and a double-header (7/9) on Saturday with first pitch at 12pm.

Offensively, SBU has a team batting average of .319, score an average of 5.6 runs per game, Slg% is .421, OB% is .389, SB/Att is 50/58.  SBU has 8 regular starters that bat over .300, 8 regular starters with OB% over .350, and all have good slugging %s.

Defensively, SBU committed 53 errors that have led to 41 unearned runs and are fielding at a .955 clip.

Pitching, SBU has a team ERA of 5.78, 10 complete games, 92 walks, 157 strike-outs, opponents are batting .306 off of them, 24 wild pitches, hit 23 batters, and balked 4 times.  SBU has 1 starter that has significant starts in 2012 with an ERA under 5.00 with the rest (6.34, 8.20, and 8.28) all above 6.30.

 NORTHWEST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY BEARCATS
2012 RECORD - 11-23 (10-14 MIAA)
2012 HOME RECORD - 4-9
2012 ROAD RECORD - 7-12
2012 NEUTRAL SITE RECORD - 0-2

Offensively, Northwest has a team batting average of .322, scored 243 runs, 32 home runs, Slugging .482, 137 walks, hit 48 times, struck out 232 times, have a .414 on-base percentage, stolen 43 bases out of 58 attempts.  There are two regular Bearcat starters that are batting over .400 in 2012.  There are seven regular starters batting .299 or better.  Northwest has 4 reserves that have legitimate offense, power, and on-base percentage in Horton, Krueger, Eckhardt, and Mapes. 

Defensively, the Bearcats have committed 58 errors that have led to 40 unearned runs and are fielding at a .952 clip.

Pitching, Northwest has a team ERA of 6.69, pitched 4 complete games, earned 4 saves, allowed 200 earned runs, 128 walks, 147 strike-outs, allowed 30 home runs, opponents are batting .325 off of Northwest pitching, thrown 27 wild pitches, hit 16 batters, and committed 4 balks.  The weekend starters' are starting to lower their ERAs and the bullpen is settling into roles and respectable ERAs, too.

Team by Team Comparison

                                              NWMSU                  SBU                  Advantage
On-Base %                            .414                          .389                   NWMSU
SLG%                                   .482                           .421                  NWMSU
Fielding %                             .952                            .955                  SBU
ERA                                      6.69                            5.78                 SBU

Go Cats!!
###

Mid-week Recap: Rockhurst

Rockhurst University beat Northwest Missouri State by a score of 15-10 on Tuesday in Maryville in front of 64 fans on a clear day.  Nathaniel Horton got the start but had a tough outing and saw his 2012 season record fall to 1-2.  Nate worked 1.1 innings, allowed 5 hits, 6 runs (5 earned), and 1 walk in the game.  Austin Bergert came in relief of Horton and worked 0.2 innings, allowed 2 hits, 1 earned run, and 1 walk in the game.  Pat Brady came in the 3rd inning and worked 2.0 innings, allowed hits, 3 runs (2 earned), 4 walks, and 3 strike-outs in the game.  Nick Caldrone came in the 5th inning and worked 2.0 innings, allowed 2 hits, 1 unearned run, 1 walk, and 2 strike-outs.  Jacob Raffaele came in the 7th inning and worked 1.0 inning and allowed 2 hits.  Jon Pomatto worked the 8th inning and allowed 3 hits, 2 runs (only 1 earned), and 1 strike-out.  Josh Parrish came in the 9th inning and allowed 3 hits and 2 runs (both earned).

Regrettably, the Bearcat defense was much to be desired and committed 5 errors in the game.

Offensively, Northwest scored 10 runs off of 13 hits, 10 RBIs, 5 walks, 2 strike-outs, and left 8 runners on base.  The offensive stars included Jake Kretzer, who went 4 for 4 (3 doubles and 1 triple), 1 RBI, 2 runs scored, Jon Pomatto went 2 for 4 with 2 RBIs, 1 run scored, and Ryan Abernathy, who went 2 for 5 with 3 RBIs.  Cameron Bedard, Tyler Durant, Charlie Krueger, Luke Lawyer, and JJ Baccari all earned a hit in the game.

Up next, Northwest travels to Bolivar to play 2 double-headers versus the Purple Bearcats of Southwest Baptist.  First pitch on Friday, April 13th is 12pm.  First pitch on Saturday, April 14th is 12pm.

Go Cats!!
###

Opposition Research - Rockhurst University

Rockhurst University Hawks
2012 Record 18-12
2012 Home Record - 7-5
2012 Away Record - 7-5
2012 Neutral Record - 4-2
GLVC Conference Record - 10-8

Offensively, Rockhurst has a team batting average of .313, 12 home runs, .402 Slugging %, 92 walks, 29 hit by pitches, 175 strike-outs, .386 on-base percentage, 38 stolen bases out of 59 attempts, and are fielding at a .966 clip.  Six everyday starters are batting over .300, slugging over .356, and around .400 on-base percentage.  4 Rockhurst batters have all of the team's 12 home runs with the team leader at 4.  Rockhurst batters bat between 32 to 65 points less on their respective members' batting averages with left-handed pitching then right-handed pitching.

Defensively, the Hawks are an average bunch having committed 37 errors in 30 games and allowed 30 unearned runs (1 unearned run per game).

Pitching, 5 pitchers have received starting opportunities for the Hawks in 2012.  Since Rockhurst started 4 of the 5 pitchers with starting experience this weekend versus Maryville University (in St. Louis) namely Mark Sappington, Mark Himmelberg, Josh Tols, and Zach Loeffelholz, the only pitcher with starting experience left is Nick Lichtenberger, 2012 record stands at 1-3, appeared in 7 games, started 5, threw 1 complete game, has thrown 23.1 innings, allowed 35 hits, 19 earned runs, 16 walks, 15 strike-outs, 5 doubles, 3 home runs, opponents are batting .357 off of him, he has thrown 6 wild pitches, and hit 4 batters.  The last time Northwest played Rockhurst, the Bearcats matched-up with Zach Loeffelholz (now the Game 4 weekend starters) and touch him for 3 runs in 6.0 innings.  The Bearcats bats should fare better against Lichtenberger whose ERA is more then 1.00 run higher then Loeggelholz's.

Northwest Missouri State University Bearcats
2012 Record - 11-22
2012 Home - 4-8
2012 Road - 7-12
2012 Neutral - 0-2
2012 MIAA Conference - 10-14

Offensively, the Bearcats are batting .321 as a team with an amazing .478 slugging %, 32 home runs, .413 on-base %, and have stolen 42 bases in 56 attempts.  The Bearcats have 2 everyday starters batting over .410 and 3 everyday starters batting around .400 or better.  The Bearcats also have 6 everyday starters batting greater then .300 on the year.  The Bearcats have an entire line-up that has tremendous power as all 9 regular starters have all hit home runs with 7 of the regular starters hitting the plurality of them.  In addition to the regular starters offensive prowess, the Bearcats have 4 bench players seeing frequent playing time that have higher then a .383 or higher on-base percentage (save 1 at .303) and all slug over .350.

Defensively, the Bearcats have committed 53 errors in 33 games which has led to 36 unearned runs.

Pitching, the Bearcats has a team ERA of 6.54 after a superior performance against Western this past weekend.  I am guessing that Carson Smith gets the starting nod tomorrow considering Pat Brady threw several innings on Sunday and may be unavailable for Tuesday's game.  Marcus Garrett is also a candidate for starting depending how his throwing sessions go with velocity and location.  We shall see.

A little part of the B2R hopes the team decides to wear their camouflage tops underneath their road jerseys on Tuesday to channel the energy and enthusiasm from the Western series.  The bottom line is if Northwest remembers Matt Mason and all the sacrifices made by our US Military to keep America safe then the 'Cats will be fired-up and focused.  Such is a lethal combination for Bearcat opponents.  The Bearcats turned some heads on Saturday with their all-out play and hustle this past weekend as evidenced by the St. Joseph newspaper article.  If the Cats keep the intensity and focus on USA then they should dominate the Hawks.

Go Cats!!
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St. Joseph News Press: Northwest's pitching surprises Western

Maryville, Mo. - An out-of-nowhere talent infusion armed Northwest Missouri State with a top-tier MIAA lineup.  But it hasn't made much of a difference in the conference hierarchy.  The Bearcats' pitching hasn't elevated in the same fashion; the staff's production hovers near the league's basement in nearly all statistical categories.

In the ninth-place Bearcats' weekend rivalry series, however, their starting rotation showed strides, none more than fourth starter Sean Brady.

The fifth-year senior struggled with injuries and hasn't had a consistent role in his career, but his six-inning gem in the series' final game should change that.

Northwest topped Missouri Western 11-1 Saturday at Bearcat Field, as Northwest's lineup enjoyed rare backing on the mound.

Read more how Northwest impressed the folks at the St. Joseph newspaper by reading the rest of this article at Northwest's pitching surprises Western.

Go Cats!!
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Weekend Recap: Missouri Western

In an earlier post titled "Opposition Research: Missouri Western" the B2R challenged Northwest's Starting Pitching to step-up and keep the Bearcats in games this weekend against a Missouri Western team that had previously won 2 of every 3 games in Conference.  The Starting Pitching stepped-up in a big way.  In Game 1, Jace Anderson threw a real gem is easily his best outing of 2012 in the B2R's opinion.  The Bearcats lost the game 1-2 to the Griffons despite Jace's performance where he pitched 7.0 innings, allowed 5 hits, 2 runs (only 1 earned), 3 walks, 0 strike-outs, 0 wild pitches, 0 balks, hit 0 batters, and induced 12 ground ball outs out of 21 total outs.  Despite the gutsy performance, Jace's 2012 record fell to 1-5.  A big bright spot though is that if Jace tweaked his mechanics to execute this kind of performance from here on out (along with Sean Brady's healthy and successful performances in back-to-back games - read below), the Bearcats now have 4 conference championship caliber starters to carry through the final stretch of the 2012 season.

Defensively, the Bearcats were charged with 1 error which lead to 1 unearned run.

Offensively, the Bearcats scored 1 run off of 7 hits, 2 walks, 6 strike-outs, and left 7 runners on base.  The offensive star was Ryan Abernathy, went 2 for 4 with 1 run scored.  Bedard, Swain, McGlauflin, Eckhardt, and Krueger all earned one hit each in the game.

The game took 1:38 to complete and was played in front of 102 fans.



In Game 2, the Bearcats executed a dominant performance offensively, defensively, and pitching with a 9-1 victory over the Griffons.  Chase Anderson got the start and was masterful seeing his record improve to 3-5 in 2012.  Chase worked 7.1 innings, allowed 6 hits, 1 run (unearned), 2 walks, 4 strike-outs, 0 wild pitches, 0 balks, and hit 0 batters.  Carson Smith came in and threw a near flawless relief to ensure the Bearcats victory.  Carson worked 1.2 innings, allowed 0 hits, 0 runs, 1 walk, and 1 strike-out.

Defensively, the Bearcats were charged with 1 error which lead to 1 unearned run.

Offensively, the Bearcats scored 9 runs off of 11 hits, 9 RBIs, 4 walks, 7 strike-outs, and left 7 runners on base.  The Offensive stars were Eric Swain, went 3 for 5 with 2 RBIs and 1 run scored, Eric McGlauflin went 2 for 5 with 1 RBI and 1 run scored, and Tyler Durant went 2 for 3 with 1 run scored.  Also of note, Jon Pomatto went 1 for 1 with 1 RBI and 1 run scored in a pinch hitting role.  Steven Garber went 1 for 2 (a double), 2 RBIs, and 1 run scored.  Landinn Eckhardt went 1 for 3 with 2 RBIs and 1 run scored.  Cameron Bedard went 1 for 3 with 1 RBI, 1 run scored, and 2 walks in the game.

The game took 2:15 to complete and was played in front of 95 fans.

The Bearcats lost Game 3 by a score of 5-7 to the Griffons in wet and soppy conditions.  Bearcats starter Chris Green threw a real strong 4.2 innings but quickly hit a wall.  With runners on, Chris was lifted for Josh Parrish who could not hold down the Western offense.  In total, Chris threw 4.2 innings, allowed 4 hits, 3 runs (all earned), 2 walks, and 3 strike-outs.  Parrish had a tough outing but closed out the game and worked 2.1 innings, allowed 8 hits, 4 runs (all earned), 1 walk, 0 strike-outs, and 1 wild pitch.

Defensively, the Bearcats were not charged with an error in the game.

Offensively, the Bearcats scored 5 runs off of 9 hits, 5 RBIs, 1 walk, 7 strike-outs, and left 6 runners on base.  The Offensive stars of the game included Steven Garber went 3 for 3 (including a double and a homerun) with 3 RBIs and 1 run scored, and Eric McGlauflin went 2 for 4 with 1 run scored.  Abernathy, Swain, Kretzer, and Eckhardt all earned 1 hit in the game, too.

The Game took 1:50 to complete and was played in front of 110 fans.  The Maryville American Legion provided our Country's colors and the men of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia sang a rousing rendition of the National Anthem and God Bless America.  The Bearcats paid tribute to fallen Bearcat Matt Mason and wore special camouflage tops as a salute to the US Armed Forces.

In Game 4, the Bearcats won 11-1 in a 10-run-rule shortened game of 8 innings to split the series against Missouri Western in the second game of the Saturday double-header.  Sean Brady had a second consecutive dominant start and picked-up his first win of 2012 to see his season record advance to 1-1.  In total, Sean worked 6.0 innings, allowed 3 hits, 0 runs, 2 walks, and 2 strike-outs.  Carson Smith came in relief of Sean but did not record an out:  0.0 innings, allowed 1 hit, 1 earned run, 1 walk, and faced 2 batters.  Pat Brady came in to close out the game and worked a near flawless relief appearance.  In total, Pat worked 2.0 innings, allowed 0 hits, 0 runs, 1 walk and 3 strike-outs.

Defensively, the Bearcats were charged with 1 error which did not lead to an unearned run.

Offensively, the Bearcats scored 11 runs off of 14 hits, 10 RBIs, 6 walks, 9 strike-outs, and left 10 runners on base.  The Stars of the game included Ryan Abernathy went 3 for 4 with 1 RBI, 2 runs scored, including a walk, a double, and a stolen base, Eric McGlauflin went 3 for 3 with 2 runs scored and 2 walks. Tyler Durant went 2 for 5 with 4 RBIs, and Steven Garber went 2 for 3, 1 RBI, 2 runs scored, and 2 walks.  Landinn Eckhardt went 2 for 5 with 3 RBIs, 1 run scored, hit his 1st home run of 2012.  Cameron Bedard and Eric Swain both earned 1 hit in the game each.

The game took 2:19 to complete with 112 people in attendance.

In a completely unscientific investigation, the B2R has tried to figure out the correct menu for the Bearcats Baseball team's chow line to unlock the bats, dominant pitching, and perfect defense.  After an incredible 11-1 victory in 8 innings, it is clear to the B2R that there will be many cupcakes in the Bearcats future for the remainder of 2012 season.







Here are some other images from the weekend series:

Go Cats!!
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