2008 Woodie Awards
Pioneers regain control of season
Justin Abaya
Issue date: 3/17/08 Section: Sports
The Volunteer State Community College baseball team is regaining its composure after a rough start to the 2008 season.
The Pioneers were heavily hyped coming into the season. They started with a 1-9 record, but the team has won seven of the last 12, bringing its overall record to 8-14.
"We have really turned up the intensity at practice and during our preparation," said Coach Mike Crossland.
"Our baseball team has had some bad breaks to start the season, plus they have been playing some of the best teams in the country," said Athletic Director Bobby Hudson.
But how have they been able to turn the corner?
"They are working very hard to get where they want to be. Head coach Mike Crossland will make sure they stay focused and they will be there when it counts," said Hudson.
He also went on to say that injuries have been a concern for the Pioneers and they need to keep working on the fundamentals of the game.
On March 10, the Pioneers played the Wolves of Joliet Junior College.
The Wolves were ranked as high as number two in the pre-season National Junior College Athletic Association division seven poll.
The Pioneers were defeated in the first game but came back strong to win the second game by a score of 4-2.
Freshman pitcher Eric Gilley turned in a solid performance on the mound. In four and two-thirds innings of work, he gave up only one run and three hits with four strikeouts.
The victory brings his record to 2-2 for the season.
The Pioneers are playing the game much better than at the start of the season.
"I don't know if it is momentum as much as confidence. Our guys are becoming a little more confident with each at bat and each game that we win," said Crossland.
One problem for the team is consistency.
"We have to find ways to string some wins together, it's hard to get above .500 when you are splitting series with every
opponent," said Crossland.
The team's overall confidence is still high.
"I still believe in this team and if we do not continue to turn the season around I will be surprised," said Crossland.
The next home game for the Pioneers is scheduled for at 7 p.m. on Friday against Sinclair.
The Pioneers were heavily hyped coming into the season. They started with a 1-9 record, but the team has won seven of the last 12, bringing its overall record to 8-14.
"We have really turned up the intensity at practice and during our preparation," said Coach Mike Crossland.
"Our baseball team has had some bad breaks to start the season, plus they have been playing some of the best teams in the country," said Athletic Director Bobby Hudson.
But how have they been able to turn the corner?
"They are working very hard to get where they want to be. Head coach Mike Crossland will make sure they stay focused and they will be there when it counts," said Hudson.
He also went on to say that injuries have been a concern for the Pioneers and they need to keep working on the fundamentals of the game.
On March 10, the Pioneers played the Wolves of Joliet Junior College.
The Wolves were ranked as high as number two in the pre-season National Junior College Athletic Association division seven poll.
The Pioneers were defeated in the first game but came back strong to win the second game by a score of 4-2.
Freshman pitcher Eric Gilley turned in a solid performance on the mound. In four and two-thirds innings of work, he gave up only one run and three hits with four strikeouts.
The victory brings his record to 2-2 for the season.
The Pioneers are playing the game much better than at the start of the season.
"I don't know if it is momentum as much as confidence. Our guys are becoming a little more confident with each at bat and each game that we win," said Crossland.
One problem for the team is consistency.
"We have to find ways to string some wins together, it's hard to get above .500 when you are splitting series with every
opponent," said Crossland.
The team's overall confidence is still high.
"I still believe in this team and if we do not continue to turn the season around I will be surprised," said Crossland.
The next home game for the Pioneers is scheduled for at 7 p.m. on Friday against Sinclair.
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