Tallmadge Blue Devils Baseball: Welcome
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Blue Devil Baseball 2012
The Tradition Continues...
Stairway to Heaven
Thursday, January 26
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Devils Name Mike Barr Junior Varsity Head Coach
Tallmadge, Ohio
A familiar face will return to the Blue Devils dugout in 2012 as former Stow assistant coach Mike Barr will take over duties as the new Tallmadge Junior Varsity Head Coach. Barr was a member of the Blue Devils coaching staff for two seasons in 2002 and 2003 when he served as the Freshmen Head Coach. "The situation opened up and I look forward to working with coach Linn and the Blue Devils," said the 1984 Stow grad. Barr was a three year letter winner as a member of the Bulldogs baseball team.
"It is great to have a guy of Mike's experience join the staff. He will be a nice addition and should be a big help working with our younger kids," said Head Coach Kenny Linn. Barr spent the last seven seasons as a varsity assistant at his alma mater. The Blue Devils are coming off an 18-6 season that included an 11-3 mark in league play. Tallmadge captured their first District title since 2002 last season.
Barr will work with the varsity once practice officially begins on February 20th.
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End of the Road
Seniors Lead Knights to 7-3 Win in Regional Semi-Final
Hudson, Ohio
The outstanding 2011 season for the Tallmadge Blue Devils (18-6, 11-3) came to an end at the hands of cross town rival Hoban on Friday evening at The Ballpark in Hudson by a final score of 7-3. The Knights (16-7) with eight seniors in their starting lineup showed their experience coming from a 2-0 deficit in the fifth inning to advance to Saturdays Regional final against Lake Catholic. "I can't tell you how proud I am of these guys. It's a shame that we lost this game the way we did today, we kind of gave it away. That's not the way this group of guys should be remembered. They were such a great group to work with all season and it is sad that I won't be able to see them as a group any more now that the season is over," said Head Coach Kenny Linn. "I can't say enough about how proud I am of our seniors and their leadership."
Junior Tucker Linder (7-1) set the Knights down in order to start the game and the Blue Devils took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the frame after Cordt Skraba reached on a one out bunt single. Derek Frye moved Skraba to second with a groundout and junior Matt Shomo drilled a single to right field for the RBI. Linder retired seven in a row before allowing two hits without a run in the third. Tallmadge picked up a run for a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the third. Danny Blake would reach after being hit by a pitch with one out in the inning. Andrew Bonnette singled through the right side and Skraba would load the bases after being hit by a pitch. Frye worked the count full and drew an RBI walk. Matt Shomo hit a ball up the middle that was flagged down by Hoban pitcher Matt Gebacz who started a inning ending double play home to first.
The turning point of the game came in the fifth inning when with one out Hoban put a runner on with an error. Two walks, three more errors and one single led to four unearned runs and a 4-2 Hoban advantage. The Knights would score another unearned run in the fifth when a runner reached on a two out error and came home on a Gebacz RBI single.
Tallmadge scored a run in the bottom of the sixth when Linder singled to center and pinch runner Dino Mierzejewski went all the way to third on a failed pick off attempt. Thomas Hobson scored Mierzejewski with an infield single. Hoban would add two runs in the top of the seventh with a walk, a double and a sacrifice fly.
The Blue Devils had eight hits in the contest. Hobson had a triple and a single. Skraba had two singles while Bonnette, Frye, Shomo, and Linder all had singles.
"The community support that we had at this game did not go unnoticed by our team and coaches it was just an incredible atmosphere. When I take a look at what we have coming back and the attitude the seniors have instilled in the younger guys, I can't wait to get back to work for next year."
Wednesday, May 25
Blue Devils Host Annual Baseball Camp
Three Day Camp For Youth Players at The "Hole" in June
Head Coach Kenny Linn and his Staff as well as THS players will conduct a mini-camp for players ages 6-12 years old. The camp will run June 14th, 15th and 16th. Campers will be divided into age groups of 6-8 year olds and 9-12 year olds. Camp begins at 9am for all players and 6-8 year olds will be done at 11:30. Campers age 9-12 will play a game from noon to 1pm all three days. Campers in the 6-8 age group need to be picked up following their session and 9-12 year old players should bring a lunch and will be done at 1pm following the days game. All players currently in the Tallmadge Little League system are eligible to participate in this camp. All aspects of baseball will be covered in the three day camp. Cost for 6-8 year olds is $65 and $80 for 9-12 year olds. Learn from the best and meet the THS coaches and players!
For more information or to register call 330-289-5870
Registration and checks sent:
C/O Kenny Linn
1935 Thornapple Ave.
Akron, Ohio 44301
Make checks payable to:Tallmadge Baseball Association
Thursday, May 26
Devils Place Six on All-League Squad
Tallmadge Runner-up in Suburban League With 11-3 Mark
The 2011 All-Suburban League baseball teams have been announced and the Blue Devils had six players honored for their on field accomplishments. Senior center fielder Andrew Bonnette and junior pitcher Tucker Linder received first team honors. Senior infielder Derek Frye and junior outfielder Matt Shomo picked up second team recognition while senior pitcher Thomas Hobson and sophomore infielder Kody Edwards gained honorable mention nods. "We knew our seniors would be a key to our season. They made a great run in the league and have taken us to a District title. You can include Jamie Lowery in that group too. He contributed in a large part to our success but only so many guys can make the All-League squad. They deserve every award they get, they work extremely hard and play for each other," praised head Coach Kenny Linn.
Senior Andrew Bonnette is batting .446 with 16 RBI's and a team high 31 runs scored. He leads the team in doubles with 10 and stolen bases with 11. Bonnette was the outfield anchor in centerfield and was a second team All-League selection in 2010. Linder is 7-0 on the mound with 66 K's in 45 2/3 innings including a 0.77 ERA. Opponents are batting just .173 against the right hander. Linder saw time at 1st base, 3rd base and shortstop compiling a .380 batting average with 14 RBI's and 2 home runs. Linder was named Honorable Mention in 2009 and 2010.
Senior Derek Frye leads the team with a .472 batting average and also tops the Devils with 32 RBI's in 23 games. Frye along with Bonnette, Linder and Edwards played every inning of every game. Frye pitched 14 innings finishing 2-1 with a 3.82 ERA. Last season Frye was named Honorable Mention All-League. Junior Matt Shomo burst on the scene in dramatic fashion this season with a home run as his first varsity hit. The junior outfielder never let up going deep a team high five times. Shomo was second on the team with 27 RBI's while batting .446 and leading the Devils in slugging % at .743. On the mound Shomo was 2-2 with 18 K's in 24 2/3 innings. It is the first All-League selection for Shomo.
Senior Thomas Hobson is a solid two way performer compiling a 5-1 record on the mound with a 1.63 ERA that included 37 K's in 43 innings. Hobson played third base defensively and is batting .303 with 12 RBI's and 2 home runs. The Honorable Mention selection is the first All-League recognition for Hobson. Sophomore Kody Edwards stepped in at second base for the Devils proving he belonged by knocking in 18 runs and batting .338 as a varsity starter. Edwards played solid defense at second and had an impressive .440 on base percentage with 13 walks that ranked third on the team. The Honorable Mention selection is the first for the sophomore.
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Hail to the Champions!
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Tallmadge "Happy" Hobson Wins
Seniors Lead Devils to District title
Canton, Ohio
The Blue Devils (18-5, 11-3) raced to the middle of Thurman Munson stadium in celebration as senior pitcher Thomas Hobson caught the final out of the Canton Division II District final sealing a 2-0 win over Canton South (15-10, 7-6) and sending Tallmadge to the Sweet Sixteen. "It's hard to put into words, I can't tell you how proud I am of these guys," said head coach Kenny Linn.
As the remaining days of their senior year dwindle down the four seniors on the Blue Devil roster are saving their best for last. Thomas Hobson put together the most memorable pitching performance of his career tossing a five hit shutout that included eleven ground ball outs. Hobson struck out three and did not issue a walk. "He pitched a heck of a game. He just stood out there and threw strikes and their defense was pretty darn good," said Canton South head coach McIlvain following the loss.
Senior Andrew Bonnette put Tallmadge on the board 1-0 with a lead off single in the bottom of the first. Cordt Skraba bunted Bonnette to second. Senior Derek Frye fell behind in the count 0-2 but battled the count full at 3-2 before lining an RBI single to center. It was the 32nd RBI of the season for Frye who leads the Devils in that category. Tucker Linder led off the second inning with a single down the third base line and cruised into second on a wild pitch. Senior Thomas Hobson stroked the first pitch he saw to center scoring Linder for a 2-0 Tallmadge lead after two innings. Hobson made sure the two runs stood up retiring 14 of sixteen batters from the second through the seventh inning. Hobson and the Tallmadge defense was so efficient the senior needed only 73 pitches in the complete game win. The defense was led by Tucker Linder who had seven put outs at third base including five of the backhand variety. The defensive play of the day came in the top of the seventh when it seemed that South was going to put together a last at bat rally. A one out single put a runner at first and designated hitter John Strasser drilled a single down the line in left field. The pinch runner for Canton rounded second and was headed for third when Tallmadge left fielder Matt Shomo made a text book scoop and throw to third baseman Tucker Linder who put the tag on the runner for the second out of the inning removing all hope from the Canton South dugout. "Our defense was the best it has been all season and it couldn't have come at a better time. We made big plays all game long," praised Linn. "Tuck was outstanding and the play by Matt sealed the win."
With the win Tallmadge advances to the field of sixteen and will play the winner of Walsh and Hoban at The Ballpark in Hudson on Thursday.
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Devils Down Dukes!
Tallmadge Advances to District Final With 9-3 Win
Canton, Ohio
The Blue Devils (17-5, 11-3) used a familiar formula Thursday afternoon to advance to the Canton Division II District final. Timely hitting, solid defense and good pitching propelled the Blue and Gold to a 9-3 win over Marlington (15-10, 8-4) in the district semi-final hosted at Thurman Munson stadium in Canton. "It was a nice win especially after the tough 1-0 loss to them here last year," said Kenny Linn. "Tuck gave us a good effort, we scored early for him and everybody relaxed."
Like the opening round of a Mike Tyson prize fight the Circle City Boys came out swinging. Tallmadge scored four runs on three hits in the bottom of the first inning for a lead they would never relinquish. Andrew Bonnette singled to center to lead off the game and moved to second on a Cordt Skraba walk. Derek Frye would load the bases with a single and Matt Shomo scored two runs with a single to left. Tucker Linder picked up an RBI with a sacrifice fly to the warning track in right field scoring Frye from third and Shomo scored on the play when the relay throw skipped past the cut off man in the outfield.
Tallmadge added four more runs in the second inning taking advantage of a Marlington error. Jamie Lowery and Danny Blake led off the inning with back to back walks. With two outs Frye would load the bases after being hit by a pitch. Shomo reached on a throwing error by the shortstop that allowed Lowery to score from third. Danny Blake scored on a passed ball by the Dukes catcher that allowed to more runners two move into scoring position. Linder grounded a ball through the left side for a base hit scoring Frye and Shomo. Tallamdge would add a single run in the third on an RBI single by Frye for a 9-0 lead.
Marlington would put a runner on base in every inning but the seventh. However, Linder worked out of trouble in every inning but the fourth when the Dukes used a walk, a hit batter, a wild pitch and a two run single to plate three runs. Linder picked up the complete game win improving to 7-0 on the season. The junior right hander allowed three runs on seven hits while striking out five.
Bonnette, Frye and Shomo each singled twice and scored twice for the Tallmadge offense that tallied 10 hits in the game. Cordt Skraba, Linder, Jamie Lowery and Kody Edwards all had singles for the Devils. Thursday marked the 16th time in 22 games that the Devils had 10 or more hits in a game.
The Blue Devils return to Thurman Munson Stadium today at 4:30 for the District Championship against Canton South who advanced to the championship game with a 7-2 win over Louisville in the other semi-final.
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Keen Piling Up Post Season Honors
Spartans Hoping for NCAA At-Large Bid
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Saturday, May 14
Third Time a Charm!
Devils Claim Sectional Title With 8-0 Win Over Springfield
Kent, Ohio
Tallmadge (16-5, 11-3) and Springfield (9-12) squared off for the third time in three days trying to decide the Division II Sectional title. Mother Nature was the only winner in the first two meetings, stopping the games before they ever started. On Saturday the teams were able to play a full seven innings between thunder storms and the Blue Devils got the best of the Spartans 8-0 at Schoonover Stadium at Kent State University. "It's just nice to be able to get the game in. This weather has been the worst and we are lucky to be able to use this facility," said head coach Kenny Linn.
Junior Tucker Linder (6-0, 0.36 ERA) threw a complete game shut out striking out 11 and not allowing a runner to reach third base. A fly ball out to center field was the only ball to leave the infield in seven innings for the Spartans who had two bunt singles and an infield hit on the day. "Tucker was very dominant today and our defense played very well behind him, " said Linn.
The Circle City Boys banged out 11 hits, led by Andrew Bonnette, who was 3 for 4 with two singles a double and three runs scored. Derek Frye improved his team best RBI total to 30 with two RBI's on two singles and a SAC fly. Matt Shomo was 2 for 4 with an RBI. Kody Edwards had a triple, a double and two RBI's. Thomas Hobson and Jamie Lowery each had a single and an RBI while Danny Blake drove in a run with a SAC fly.
Tallmadge scored three runs in the bottom of the first, three more in the third and single tallies in the fourth and sixth. All nine players contributed either a hit, a run, an RBI or a sacrifice to the THS offense. "We looked pretty good top to bottom. Derek is in a groove and Bonnette had three hits today. Everybody is contributing and we will need that throughout the tournament."
Tallmadge will face Marlington on Thursday at 2 pm at Thurman Munson Stadium in Canton in the Division II District semi-final.
Thursday, May 12
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Copley "Frye'd" by Devils
Senior Helps Pitch, Hit Way Past Indians 9-7 in 10 Innings
Copley,Ohio
Derek Frye is saving his best for last. The senior Blue Devil led the way pitching and hitting Tallmadge (15-5, 11-3) past Copley (9-15, 6-8) in the Suburban league finale Wednesday afternoon as the visitors came away with a 9-7 ten inning victory. Frye (2-1) was the winning pitcher and had the game winning hit in the top of the tenth, a two RBI triple over the head of the center fielder.
Nathan Jackson (1-0) got the start for Tallmadge and turned the game over to the bullpen after a solid five innings of work. Jackson allowed 2 runs on 8 hits striking out four. Tallmadge had carved out a 7-2 advantage through six innings.
Tallmadge scored two runs in the second inning on a two RBI single by Danny Blake. The Circle City Boys would extend their lead 5-1 in the fourth scoring three times on sacrifice RBI fly balls by Cordt Skraba and Andrew Bonnette. The third run scored on an error by the Copley second baseman. Copley would make it 5-2 in the fifth with a run scoring double.
Frye came on in relief of Jackson in the sixth and worked a scoreless inning. Tallmadge added two runs in the top of the sixth on an RBI triple by Cordt Skraba scoring Bonnette who had reached on an infield single. Frye would drive in Skraba with a single to center for a 7-2 Tallmadge advantage.
Copley would not go quietly in their final at bat as the first two batters reached by walks and an infield single loaded the bases. Tallmadge got an out at second on a ground ball up the middle but an errant throw went into the Blue Devil dugout allowing two runs to score. An RBI single closed the gap to 7-5 with the tying run at the plate. Tucker Linder came on in relief of Frye hoping to close the door on the Indians rally. Linder walked the first batter he faced and a wild pitch moved both runners into scoring position. Linder struck out the next batter but an RBI single would tie the game before an inning ending strikeout.
Frye re-entered the game at pitcher and did not allow a run over the next three innings while striking out three to pick up the win. Frye stepped to the plate in the top of the tenth and drilled a triple into the teeth of a head wind over the center fielders head scoring Blake and Bonnette who had reached on singles. The Copley lead off hitter reached in the tenth but a slick 6-4-3 double play started a three up three down final at bat.
Tallmadge will play Thursday afternoon in the Sectional final against Springfield with the first pitch slated for 4:30 at Dave Young Field. The Blue Devils will honor seniors and their parents following the game. NOTES: Former Blue Devil and 2002 draft pick of the New York Yankees Jason Stephens is scheduled to throw out the first pitch. Stephens will be throwing to Athletic Director Don Seeker who coached Stephens and the Blue Devils to a state title in 2002.
Wednesday, May 11
Hornets Swarm Devils
Tallmadge Suffers League Road Loss at Highland
Medina, Ohio
Less than a week after Tallmadge (14-5, 10-3) blanked Highland 10-0 in five innings at Dave Young Field the Hornets (10-6, 6-4) returned the favor on their home turf with a 16-0 five inning blanking of the Devils. The loss puts the Blue Devils a half a game out of first place in the league race with Green. Tallmadge will finish league play today on the road at Copley. Green still has games against Highland and Revere remaining on their schedule.
Highland opened the game with a leadoff home run off the bat off Jerry Scholle and added four more runs on three more hits, two walks, and an error sending ten men to the plate in the first inning building a 5-0 lead after one. The Hornets would chase THS starter Matt Shomo after two innings of work scoring two runs on three hits in the second. While it seemed Highland could do no wrong it was just as obvious the Devils would struggle to do any thing right. "We didn't get anything done in any phase of the game today. It seems every team has one of these games in a season and this was ours. It's disappointing that it came at this time. We just need to move on, there is nothing you can say to the kids," related head coach Kenny Linn.
While Highland was busy pounding out 15 hits through four innings the Devils were held to just two hits, both off the bat of Andrew Bonnette. It was the lowest hit total of the season for Tallmadge and the first time this season they failed to score a run. Highland scored five runs in the third and four in the fourth for the final score.
Tallmadge will travel to Copley for their final league contest with first pitch scheduled for 4:30pm.
NOTES:Tallmadge will recognize their four seniors with a ceremony following the Thursday Sectional game at Dave Young Field. It will be the final home appearance for the seniors. Tallmadge will play the winner of the Kenmore/Springfield contest to be played today. Game time is 4:30pm.
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Storm Finishes Middle of the Pack in Loaded GLIAC
Division II Lake Erie Boasts Three Blue Devils on Roster
The Lake Erie College Storm finished 2011 in the middle of the GLIAC standings and while that may not seem like an accomplishment, it is when you consider that most preseason polls had them near the bottom of the conference. The Storm finished their first season in the league with 14 wins and ended the year 19-26 overall.
Three former Blue Devils have made an impact on the fledgling DII program. Sophomore Patrick Kilway made 37 starts this past season and batted a solid .264 with six doubles and 11 RBI's. Younger brother Brian made 12 appearances on the mound including six starts and finished 2-4 with a 3.76 ERA. Kilways 25 K's on the season tied him for second most on the staff. Opposing hitters batted just .267 against the freshman. Garrett Emling appeared in 27 games including 12 starts. As an out fielder Emling did not make an error in 29 chances and finished the year 3 for 5 in the stolen base department. The left handed hitter finished with a .262 batting average and 3 RBI's.
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Devil Domination!
Shomo Goes Deep, Hobson Shuts Out Copley 6-0
Tallmadge, Ohio
The Blue Devils opened the week with an impressive win shutting out the visiting Copley Indians 6-0 at Dave Young Field. In the first of what could be four games in four days the Blue Devils combined a 10 hit offense with outstanding starting pitching from senior Thomas Hobson to improve to 10-2 in league play. Tallmadge 14-4 overall remains tied for first with Green and has two games remaining on the league schedule.
Hobson allowed just two hits over the seven inning complete game and improved to 4-1 on the season with an ERA of 1.94 in six starts. It was the seniors team leading fourth complete game on the year. "Hobby was pretty impressive today. A bloop single and a bad bounce ground ball base hit was all he gave up," said Kenny Linn. "He showed great poise on the mound when he got into a little trouble and was able to work out of it. That's what seniors are supposed to do."
Tallmadge got on the board early scoring two runs in the bottom of the first. Junior Matt Shomo fell behind in the count with Derek Frye at first following a two out single. Shomo worked the count full then deposited a no doubt about it blast halfway up the trees beyond the left field fence. It was the fifth of the year for Shomo who leads the team in round trippers. The Devils would add two more runs in the second when Matt Boyer singled and scored following an errant throw by the catcher on an Andrew Bonnette attempted steal. Derek Frye used his second single of the day to drive in a run and THS led 4-0 after two innings. In the third the Circle City Boys used a walk, a fielders choice and three straight singles to plate two more runs. Danny Blake and Bonnette each drove in a run in the inning. Meanwhile Hobson hancuffed Copley with pop ups and ground balls that the Tallmadge defense turned into outs. Hobson would finish the game with five strike outs.
The Blue Devils will travel to Highland Tuesday for a league matchup with the Hornets.
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Devils Make Hay While the Sun Shines!
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Bombs Away!
Hobson, Linder Go Deep in 10-0 Win Over Highland
Tallmadge, Ohio
The Blue Devils (13-4, 9-2) made short work of the visiting Hornets from Highland (7-6, 5-4) as The Circle City Boys racked up their seventh run rule game of the season with a five inning 10-0 victory at Dave Young Field Thursday afternoon. The Hornets entered the game in second place in the Suburban League one game behind Tallmadge and Green. "I was a little nervous coming in here with very little practice and the prom tomorrow night," said head coach Kenny Linn. "These guys had some great at bats and really were focused on taking care of business."
Junior Tucker Linder improved to 5-0 with a one hit shutout striking out seven. The right hander gave up a single in the top of the fifth. The shutout lowered Linder's ERA to 0.45 on the season. As a staff Tallmadge has an impressive 2.97 ERA.
Tallmadge scored three runs in the bottom of the second when Linder led off with a single, went to second on an errant pick off attempt and rolled into third when Kody Edwards reached on an error. Matt Boyer picked up an RBI with an infield single. Danny Blake singled to right scoring Edwards and Andrew Bonnette grounded out to second scoring Boyer. The Blue Devils sent 10 batters to the plate in the third scoring five runs. Linder sent an 0-1 fast ball to the tree tops in left for a two run home run his second of the season. "That's the longest ball I've ever seen hit here," said pitching coach Ben Shepherd. Not to be outdone, senior Thomas Hobson hit a laser over the fence in left center about 375 feet from home plate for his second of the season. Cordt Skraba would end the scoring with a clutch two out single that plated two runs. Blake ended the day 3 for 3, while Derek Frye, Bonnette, Matt Shomo and Linder had two hits each.
Weather permitting the Devils will play Copley on Monday, Highland on Tuesday, Copley on Wednesday and the sectional final on Thursdsay.
NOTE:Special thanks again to Jeff Harwell for photos from todays game. You can purchase photos online at www.harwellphoto.com
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NCAA Division III #1 Marietta Sweeps Otterbein
Emling, Linder Take Part in OAC Rivalry
Marietta, Ohio
It is one of the oldest and richest rivalries in OAC baseball. The Pioneers of Marietta and the Otterbein Cardinals renewed the latest edition of the rivalry on Saturday afternoon. Marietta entered the game ranked #1 in the nation and leading the OAC by two games. Otterbein entered the weekend battling for the fourth and final post season tournament spot.
New to the rivalry are two former Blue Devils, freshman Phil Emling of Marietta and freshman Thomas Linder of Otterbein. The one time teammates met on the field for the first time as opponents. Marietta flexed its muscles both at the plate and on the mound sweeping the double header 6-0 and 6-1. Linder the starting left fielder for the Cardinals was 2 for 6 on the day. Emling a right handed reliever in the Pioneer bullpen did not see action as the Marietta starters needed very little help in the sweep. Marietta is ranked number one in the regional rankings and will be an easy selection to the NCAA national tournament. THS alum Matt Keen and the Case Western Reserve squad are currently ranked third in the region and should also have a great shot at an at-large bid to the national tournament.
Monday, May 2
Devils Shine Off The Field
The baseball team has built a 12-4 record through 16 games and are currently in a tie atop the Suburban League with an 8-2 mark. Sunday the Blue Devils were voted the number one seed for the upcoming Division II Canton District. Just as impressive are some of the accolades team members are receiving off the field. At the recent Annual Distinguished Scholar Award Program freshman Tristan Clark, Justin Stevenor and Alexander Fagerline, sophomore Cordt Skraba and junior Matt Shomo were all honored for their academic achievements.
Junior Tucker Linder and Matt Shomo will be dancing the night away this weekend as both were voted to the 2011 Prom Court.
Linder was recently honored at the 2011 Summit County Schools' Art Expo where his color pencil drawing "The Artistic Side" took third place. The drawing was purchased by the Akron Children's Hospital.
Senior Andrew Bonnette was named player of the week by the Cleveland Plain Dealer and the following week junior Matt Shomo received the same honor.
Congrats to all the Blue Devils who continue to make us proud both on and off the field.
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The Boys Are Back!
Weekend Sweep Helps Devils to Number One Seed
Kent,Ohio
Following a midweek set back in league play the Blue Devils responded with two wins on Saturday that helped vault them to the number one seed in the District that was drawn on Sunday afternoon. Tallmadge (12-4, 8-2) knocked off a very good Kenston team 5-4 giving the Bombers just their fourth loss against 13 wins. The Circle City Boys scored five runs in the first inning and held on for an 8-5 win over Olmsted Falls in the second game of the Saturday double dip at Kent States Olga Mural Field. "Those two wins helped our cause that is for sure," said Kenny Linn. The Devils earned a bye in the first round of the Sectional and will face the winner of Kenmore and Springfield.
After rain wiped out the Friday schedule of the 2011 Cancer Awareness Classic the Blue Devils hosted Kenston in the second of three games at Schoonover Stadium on Saturday. The Bombers were coming off a come from behind win over Hoban in the first game of the day.
Kenston boasts an outstanding offensive line up that includes recent Ohio State signee centerfielder Pat Porter. Junior Matt Shomo held the Bombers to just one run through six innings and put together possibly his strongest outing of the season. "Matt was pretty dominate out there today. He had great command, had four pitches he was able to throw for strikes. It's unfortunate he couldn't get the win for his effort but I was very proud of his performance today," said pitching coach Ben Shepherd.
Tallmadge scratched out a single run in the third on an RBI single by Kody Edwards after Kenston scored a single tally in the top of the frame. Tallmadge would score a single run in the fourth when Tucker Linder singled, stole second, moved to third on a ground ball and came home on a throwing error by the Kenston shortstop off the bat of Thomas Hobson. Linder led off the sixth with a single and pinch runner Dino Mierzejewski scored during an attempted steal of third base when the Bomber catcher's throw went into left field. Shomo was looking to close out a great pitching effort but Kenston would use a double and two walks to load the bases in the top of the seventh. Derek Frye came on with the bases loaded and Porter would find a hole in the infield for a two run single to tie the game. Each team scored a run in the eighth with the Devils using a Hobson triple and a Cordt Skraba RBI single to send the game to the ninth. Linder doubled into the right field corner to lead off the inning and two intentional walks brought Skraba back to the plate for a chance to win the game. Skraba grounded the first pitch he saw through the right side of a drawn in infield setting off a celebration by the Blue and Gold. First baseman Jamie Lowery made the defensive play of the game in the top of the ninth diving toward the line and taking away a double with the bases loaded and two outs. Frye picked up the win in relief to even his record at 1-1 on the season.
Game two looked as though it might be another knock out for the Devils as they put five runs on the board sending 10 batters to the plate in the top of the first. The first five Devils reached and scored in the inning with Edwards, Frye, Linder and Skraba all picking up RBI's. Jamie Lowery got the start for Tallmadge and struggled with his control walking three and hitting a batter in two innings of work before being lifted for reliever Nathan Jackson. Jackson making his first varsity appearance following a 16 month absence from the mound due to a stress fracture in his elbow held serve for the Blue Devils and picked up the win working five innings allowing just two runs. The junior right hander struck out six and scattered six hits for the win. "I'm not sure I know what to say. He was just unbelievable today. He had great mound presence and just pounded the strike zone with three different pitches. I can not say enough about how impressed I was with his work today," said Linn. Tallmadge added three runs in the top of the seventh as Linder, Hobson and Danny Blake picked up RBI's for the Blue and Gold who closed out the 8-5 victory.
NOTES:Tallmadge head coach Kenny Linn left the Division II District seed meeting Sunday afternoon with a smile on his face as the Blue Devils were voted the number one seed. Tallmadge will draw a bye in the first round of the sectional and play the winner of the Kenmore/Springfield contest.
Tallmadge returns to Suburban League play on Tuesday hosting Highland in a crucial matchup that has title ramifications. First pitch slated for 4:30 at Dave Young Field.
Friday, April 29
Warm Day, Cold Bats
Revere Pins Loss on Devils 5-2
Kent, Ohio
The Revere Minutemen (6-7, 6-3) used good pitching, errorless defense and timely hitting to hand the Blue Devils (10-4, 8-2) their second league loss of the season 5-2 at Olga Mural Field at Kent State University. Some of the sting from the loss was removed when it was learned that Barberton defeated Green 9-6 keeping the Devils in a tie with the Bulldogs atop the Suburban League with two losses.
Tallmadge had opportunities throughout the game to put runs on the board but could not come up with the RBI hit it needed. "We just have not hit the ball consistently the last couple of games, tonight it cost us," said Kenny Linn. The top five in the lineup managed just 3 hits in 20 plate appearances.
The Blue and Gold had the bases loaded twice and were unable to push any runs across the plate in either situation. Clutch hitting however was the key to victory for Revere who used back to back triples, a wild pitch and an error to plate three runs in the bottom of the third. Tallmadge got one run back on a Jamie Lowery RBI SAC fly in the top of the fourth and made it a one run game in the top of the sixth when Tucker Linder scored on a wild pitch. A two out bases loaded single gave Revere their fourth and fifth run in the bottom of the sixth inning. Tallmadge loaded the bases in the fifth with one out but the Revere defense turned a 6-4-3 double play to end the inning. The Blue Devils were held to just six hits and were led by Kody Edwards who had a single and a double. Andrew Bonnette, Derek Frye, and Matt Boyer each had a single while Matt Shomo had a double for Tallmadge. Thomas Hobson (3-1) scattered nine hits and allowed just one earned run over six innings lost for the first time this season.
Tallmadge is set to host Jackson at Dave Young Field today at 5pm as part of The 2011 Cancer Awareness Classic.
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Hang On Sloppy!
Late Errors Almost Cost Devils in 4-3 Win Over Revere
Tallmadge, Ohio
Several of the Blue Devils are counting their toes this morning after an error filled final inning almost cost Tallmadge (10-3, 8-1) a league victory Wednesday night at a soggy Dave Young Field. Tallmadge shot themselves in the foot committing three errors in the top of the seventh against Revere (5-7, 5-3) turning a 4-1 lead into a 4-3 ballgame with the bases loaded. Relief pitcher Matt Shomo battled through the adversity getting a fly ball out to left field on a 3-2 pitch to end the game. "Matt did a great job battling through what was going on behind him. He did his job, he came in and threw strikes. He got the ground balls and we just didn't field them," said Kenny Linn. "I told the team that it was good for us to have experienced this and hopefully it will make us better in the long run by getting through it with a win."
Junior Tucker got the start for the Blue Devils and improved to 4-0 going six innings allowing 1 run on five hits while striking out seven. "Tucker gave us a nice solid start and I'm not sure we have seen his best game yet," said Linn.
Tallmadge got on the board in the bottom of the first with three straight hits. After a Blue Devil base runner was picked off Danny Blake doubled the opposite way to left field. Senior Derek Frye then drove a 1-2 pitch deep over the left field fence for a 2-0 Tallmadge lead. It was the second of the season for Frye and gave him a team high 22 RBI's. The Circle City Boys would extend their lead in the second when Kody Edwards worked a lead off walk and rode home on Jamie Lowery's third home run of the season. Lowery also found a 1-2 pitch to his liking and lined it just over the fence in left field for a 4-0 Blue Devil advantage. For the Devils that would be all the scoring as the Revere starter Justin Bergh settled in and held serve with a complete game seven strike out effort.
Revere scored a single run in the fifth off Linder who walked the lead off hitter and gave up a double to Ryan Wonders putting runners at second and third with one out. A ground out to second plated a run and Linder would end the threat with a strike out.
Junior Matt Shomo started the seventh by striking out the lead off batter and then the defense collapsed behind him. An error on the shortstop, a single, a SAC fly, an error at second and another at third followed by a walk plated two runs and left the bases loaded. Shomo fell behind in the count 3-1 with the tying run 90 feet away before battling back and inducing the game ending fly ball to left field.
Tallmadge finished the game with seven hits and a season high six errors. In defense of the sloppy play, the locals not counting games, have had just two outdoor on field practices since the start of the season. If Mother Nature allows, the same two teams will play again this afternoon.
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Saturday, April 23
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Emling Earns Save in First College Appearance
2010 Grad Pitching for Marietta Nations #2 Team
Phil Emling made his college pitching debut against OAC opponent Ohio Northern recently and picked up his first career save going three strong innings allowing one run on one hit while striking out three. Emling and the Pioneers are ranked #2 in NCAA Division III and lead the OAC standings with a 27-3 record.
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Field of Dreams
THS Alum Meet on Progressive Field
Cleveland, Ohio
Getting the chance to walk out on a big league field for a game is something every little leaguer dreams of. On Thursday former Blue Devil players Matt Keen and Thomas Linder got the chance to experience an opportunity of a lifetime as Case Western Reserve and Otterbein University squared off at the home of the Cleveland Indians Progressive Field.
Case Western is in the hunt for an NCAA regional tournament at large bid while the Cardinals are looking to fight its way into the OAC tournament where the winner gets an automatic regional nod.
Sophomore shortstop Matt Keen helped lead the Spartans to a walk off 5-4 win in the bottom of the ninth by going 2 for 4 on the day with 3 RBI's. Thomas Linder the starting left fielder for Otterbein was held without a hit in three at bats. Keen continues to lead the nation in runs scored among all Division III players. Linder was batting .346 prior to the start of Thursday's contest.
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Devils Serve Up Breakfast Special
Tallmadge Run Rules Barberton 10-0 For Series Sweep
Tallmadge, Ohio
In an effort to beat the impending weather the Blue Devils moved the start of Fridays game to 11am and were able to finish their two game series with Barberton before the rains came. For the second day in a row the Devils (9-3, 7-1) dominated the Magics (1-10, 1-7) in every phase of the game en route to a five inning 10-0 victory.
Senior Thomas Hobson improved to 3-0 on the season and lowered his ERA to 2.74 with the complete game five inning effort. Hobson allowed just four hits while striking out six. "I was just glad to get this game in. This weather has been crazy and we really don't want to get backed up with unplayed league games," said Kenny Linn. "Thomas Hobson did a great job today pounding the strike zone and had full command of three pitches."
Barberton had a base runner in every inning but Hobson was able to bear down and escape without allowing a run. The senior was helped out by 6-4-3 double play in the third inning and junior Matt Shomo gunned down a runner at the plate from right field trying to score from second on a single in the top of the fifth. Junior Nathan Jackson made his first appearance of the season at first base and handled all of his chances including using all of his 6'7" frame to corral a high throw at the back end of the double play. "Nathan looks pretty good at first base and gives us a few more options defensively."
Tallmadge got to Barberton starter Josh North, a Youngstown State signee, in the second inning scoring three runs. In defense of North, the Barberton defenders seemed to be sleep walking through the morning contest as twice in the inning routine fly balls went uncaught and untouched. Matt Boyer, Cordt Skraba and Andrew Bonnette drove in runs thanks to the poor defense of the Magics. The Devils added five more runs in the fourth and Matt Shomo ended the game in the fifth with a one out two run double to the base of the wall in center field to push the game to the run rule limit. It was the seventh time this season (12 games) that Tallmadge has run ruled an opponent. Derek Frye had a single, double and two RBI's. Kody Edwards, Tucker Linder and Cordt Skraba each had two hits in the game.
Tallmadge was to play a double header in Strongsville on Satruday but that has already been cancelled due to poor playing conditions. Tallmadge is scheduled to play Revere in a two game league series beginning Tuesday.
Thursday, April 21
Sunshine + Baseball = Devils Win!
Tallmadge Makes Short Work of Barberton 11-1
Barberton,Ohio
The Blue Devils were excited to get back to baseball after rain postponed games on back to back days. They took out their frustration on Barberton in five innings Thursday night with a 14 hit offense and an 11-1 Suburban League victory. "It took us a couple of innings to get going but once we did we hit it pretty good," said Head Coach Kenny Linn.
Junior Tucker Linder improved to 3-0 on the season allowing one unearned run on three hits while striking out 12 Magics in the five inning complete game victory. "He did what he should do when it comes to taking charge on the mound," said Linn. Linder lowered his ERA to 0.35 and now has 34 strike outs in 20 innings of work on the season. Opponents are batting just .168 against the right hander.
The Magics scored their only run of the game in the bottom of the second when back to back errors by Tallmadge put runners at second and third. Linder uncorked a swinging strike wild pitch in the dirt that allowed the runner to score from third. Linder struck out three of the next four batters to end the rally. Barbertons only other threat came in the fourth with back to back singles to start the inning but again the right hander slammed the door striking out the next three batters.
The Tallmadge offense came to life in the third inning scoring three times on an RBI double from Matt Shomo and RBI singles from Kody Edwards and Thomas Hobson. The Blue and Gold would add three more in the fourth with RBI singles from Andrew Bonnette, Derek Frye and Linder. The Circle City Boys would put Barberton away sending ten men to the plate in the top of the fifth scoring five runs. Bonnette, Shomo, Edwards and Cordt Skraba picked up the RBI's. Edwards and Linder finished the night with three hits while Bonnette, Shomo and Cordt Skraba had two hits apiece. Hobson and Frye added singles to the Devils cause.
The same two teams will face off at Dave Young Field on Friday morning at 11:00 am.
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Bears "Ground" High Flying Devils
Jackson Stops THS 7-2 in Non-League Tilt
Massilon, Ohio
After being washed out over the weekend by Mother Nature the Blue Devils were grounded out by the Jackson Polar Bears Monday night by a final of 7-2. Of the 21 outs recorded in the game for the Bears defense only four were recorded by the outfield. Tallmadge hitters struck out four times and the remaining 13 outs were recorded via the groundball. "We didn't hit as well as we have during this season. Part of that was their pitching and part of it was our hitting," said Kenny Linn following the loss.
Tallmadge opened the scoring in the top of the second when Kody Edwards led off with a single and stole second. Jamie Lowery worked a walk and Cordt Skraba singled through the right side of the infield to load the bases. Andrew Bonnette brought Edwards home with a sacrifice fly to right field. Jackson would tie the game in the bottom of the second with a sacrifice fly of their own. Jackson would add three runs on three hits, a throwing error, and a walk. The Bears would end the game with 10 hits, six of which went right over the second base bag just out of reach of the Devils middle infielders. Jackson would score two more runs in the fourth off starter Matt Shomo before adding an insurance unearned run in the sixth off reliever Derek Frye.
Tallmadge had opportunities but just couldn't come up with the key hit with runners in scoring position. The Devils stranded 10 runners on the night. Matt Shomo had three hits including two ground ball infield singles. Edwards had two singles, while Bonnette, Frye and Skraba had the other hits for the Blue and Gold.
Weather permitting the Blue Devils will travel to Barberton for the first of a two game league series with the Magics.
Saturday, April 16
Road Trip Cancelled
Weather Stops Devils Columbus Trip
Jackson Added to Schedule Monday
Rain Friday and Saturday made conditions unplayable in Columbus canceling a two game road trip for the Devils. "We tried to make it happen but it was going to take a lot of work to get the field ready and the weather forecast didn't look good. It just wasn't worth the gamble and their coach told us he didn't think they could make it work," explained Kenny Linn. Tallmadge will pick up a game, scheduling a 5pm contest at Jackson on Monday. The first place Devils continue league play Tuesday at Barberton and host the Magics at Dave Young Field on Wednesday.
Friday, April 15
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News, Notes, Stats and Stuff.....
-The Blue Devils are scheduled to play two games in Columbus on Saturday but the only winner might be Mother Nature as wet weather is the story of the day.
-Junior Nathan Jackson threw a rehab workout with the JV's as part of his return to the active roster for the varsity. The 6'6" 190 lb. right hander completed two scoreless innings of work striking out four and allowing no runs on one hit against Green Wednesday night. There were no issues reported following the outing and Jackson should have the green light for the weekend. "I'm anxious to see what he can bring to our pitching staff. I've heard good things about him and if he can give us innings that would be great for where we are right now," said Kenny Linn.
-Junior Matt Shomo has four home runs in the first nine games of the season including one home run in three straight games. The last Blue Devil with four home runs was Matt Keen in 2009. Six different Blue Devils have at least one home run this season.
-Speaking of Matt Keen, the sophomore at Case Western Reserve was recently honored as a scholar athlete. Maintaining a 3.3 GPA or higher as a member of a varsity sport.
-Matt Keen II.....Keen leads the nation in runs scored and is 7th in batting average among all Division III baseball players according to the most recent NCAA stats. Keen and his teammates will face fellow THS alum Thomas Linder as the Otterbein Cardinals and Case square off at Progressive Field on April 20th at Noon.
-Derek "Charlie" Frye is making the most of his senior season leading the team in batting average (.560), RBI's (17), and on base % (.647).
-Sophomore Kody Edwards has proven the ability to drive in runs as he is currently third on the team with 12 RBI's. In his first full season with the varsity Kody has shown great discipline at the plate.
-Junior Danny Blake leads the team in walks with 10 and has proven he will do anything to get on base with a .474 on base percentage. Blake has reached base five times on an error and twice has been hit by a pitch.
-Century Mark....Junior Tucker Linder passed the century mark in career strike outs during a 10 strike out performance at Cloverleaf. In just over two seasons the right hander has 111 strike outs in 96 innings.
-David "Dino" Mierzejewski has been called on four times this season as a pinch runner and has scored on three of those opportunities.
-Best batting average regardless of attempts belongs to freshman Chris Gray who is a perfect 1 for 1 at the plate.
Batting Average (Min 20 AB’s) On Base %
1)Derek Frye .560 1)Derek Frye .647
2)Matt Shomo .538 Matt Shomo .647
3)Andrew Bonnette .424 3)Jamie Lowery .500
4)Danny Blake .474
Slugging% Hits
1)Matt Shomo 1.154 1)Andrew Bonnette 14
2)Derek Frye .880 Derek Frye
3)Andrew Bonnette .758 Matt Shomo
4)Thomas Hobson 10
Tucker Linder
Doubles Triples
1)Andrew Bonnette 8 1)Andrew Bonnette 1
2)Thomas Hobson 4 Derek Frye
3)Derek Frye 3 Matt Shomo
Home Runs Walks
1)Matt Shomo 4 1)Danny Blake 10
2)Jamie Lowery 2 2)Jamie Lowery 8
3)Four tied with 1 3)Matt Shomo 7
RBI’s Wins
1)Derek Frye 17 1)Thomas Hobson 2
2)Matt Shomo 16 Matt Shomo
3)Kody Edwards 12 Tucker Linder
4)Jamie Lowery 1
ERA Strike Outs/Innings
1)Tucker Linder 0.47 1) Tucker Linder 22/15 Inn.
2)Thomas Hobson 3.50 2)Thomas Hobson 16/18 Inn.
3)Matt Shomo 4.20 3)Matt Shomo 11/10 Inn.
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Mission Accomplished!
Devils Gain Split With 6-5 Win At Green
Green, Ohio
Following a heartbreaking 11-10 last at bat loss to Green at Dave Young Field on Tuesday the Blue Devils (7-2, 5-1) traveled to Green (6-1, 4-1) with one goal in mind. A loss to the Bulldogs would put Tallmadge two games back of their Southern rival in what is becoming a two team league title race. A win would knock Green from the ranks of the undefeated and leave the teams tied for first after three weeks of play. Officially a win has Tallamdge holding a half game advantage with a 5-1 league mark. Getting contributions up and down the lineup offensively, defensively and on the mound Tallmadge accomplished their lone goal with a 6-5 victory on Wednesday afternoon.
"We knew what we had to do and our guys were focused from the time they got on the bus today. They weren't happy the way things ended in the first game and they came here with a purpose," said head coach Kenny Linn.
Junior right hander Tucker Linder took the mound for the Devils and Green scratched out an unearned run in the bottom of the first for a 1-0 lead after one. Tallmadge would take the lead in the second after Matt Shomo led off the inning with a walk, Linder deposited the first pitch he saw from Green starter Seth Curtis over the two story fence in left field. For Linder it was the first home run of the season and he now officially joins the arms race with Shomo (4), Jamie Lowery (2), Andrew Bonnette (1), Derek Frye (1) and Thomas Hobson (1) who have all left the yard this season. The ten home runs this year is four better than last seasons squad and seven shy of the 2009 Devils total. Tallmadge would add two more unearned runs in the second for a 4-1 advantage.
Neither team would score until the fifth when Tallmadge picked up a single run. Dino Mierzejewski pinch running for Derek Frye who had reached by a walk promptly stole second base and rode home on a Matt Shomo RBI single. The Bulldogs would rally in the bottom of the inning tying the score 5-5 using three walks, an error and two hits to plate four runs. Linder's day would be finished after five innings of work striking out six, walking six, allowing four hits and five runs, one earned.
A scoreless sixth inning by both teams was highlighted by senior Jamie Lowery on in relief of Linder as he wiggled out of a two out bases loaded jam by striking out Green's Hunter Handel to end the inning.
Tallmadge would pick up the game winning run in the top of the seventh when Danny Blake reached on a throwing error by the pitcher following a bunt attempt. Andrew Bonnette hustled down the line for an infield single moving Blake to second. Three hole hitter Derek Frye then lined a ball over the left fielders head all the way to the wall scoring Blake. Frye was thrown out at second trying to advance on the play.
Green opened the bottom of the seventh with a walk and a single. Lowery made an outstanding play on a bunt attempt getting a force at third to the shortstop covering to cut down the tying run. Green speedster Bryce Miller would attempt a steal of third but catcher Zach Skraba, who entered the game in the sixth, threw a laser on the bag to Hobson who stuck the tag on a sliding Miller for the second out. Following a hit batter which put runners on first and second Lowery induced a pop fly to left to end the game. "I can't say enough about what Jamie did for this team today. After struggling in his last outing he came out here and really showed me something today," praised Linn. Lowery picked up his first varsity win throwing two scoreless innings.
Matt Shomo continued his outstanding season at the plate with two singles an RBI and two walks. The junior is now hitting over five hundred with 15 RBI's in nine games. Frye's game winner was the teams best 17th RBI of the season.
Wednesday, April 13
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Battle Royale!
Green Wins First Matchup of League Leaders 11-10
Tallmadge, Ohio
It was a playoff atmosphere at Dave Young Field as the Blue Devils (6-2, 4-1) and Bulldogs (6-0, 4-0) met for the first time this season. Both teams entered the contest unbeaten in league play and the game lived up to the hype that has become tradition when these two programs get together. Green used a four run top of the seventh to secure a win in game one of two hanging on for an 11-10 victory. "It's exactly what you expect when these two teams get together. It was a great atmosphere and we did everything we could do in this one we just came up a run short," said Kenny Linn after the game.
Tallmadge took a 2-0 lead after one thanks to a solo home run from Andrew Bonnette and an RBI single to center by Matt Shomo. Senior Thomas Hobson got the start for Tallmadge and held Green to just one run through the first three innings. Tallmadge built their lead to 4-1 scoring two runs in the third. Sophomore Kody Edwards singled home Shomo who led off the inning with a walk. Thomas Hobson ripped a two out double to the wall and Edwards who had advanced to second scored easily. The fourth inning proved costly for the Devils as Green went to the long ball with a two run home run off the bat of Seth Curtis that was followed two batters later by another two run shot this time from catcher Hunter Handel.
Trailing for the first time in the ballgame Tallmadge responded with three runs in the bottom of the fourth to lead 7-5. The Devils tied the game when Andrew Bonnette scored from third on a botched throw from the Green pitcher in an attempted pick off play at first base. Kody Edwards came through with a clutch two out, two run sungle to put the Blue and Gold up 7-5. "Kody has had some opportunities this season to drive some runs in and he has not disappointed," said Linn. Edwards is third on the team with 12 RBI's and is batting a solid .320 as the everyday second baseman.
Green used their third two run home run of the game and second on the day for Seth Curtis to tie the game in the top of the fifth. In the bottom of the inning Tallmadge used a two out walk to Danny Blake, an RBI double from Bonnette and an RBI single from Derek Frye to regain the lead 9-7 after five.
Derek Frye on in relief of Hobson held the Bulldogs scoreless in the sixth. Green reliever Mark Zimmerman struck out the side in the bottom of the sixth setting up the pivotal seventh inning. After a fly out to center to start the seventh back to back singles and a fielders choice loaded the bases for the Bulldogs. Tallmadge gave up a run on a force out at third. With two outs an leading by one back to back infield singles by Green plated two more runs and they would pick up their eleventh run on a single to center. When the smoke had cleared Green had scored four runs on five hits and led 11-9.
Tallmadge senior Thomas Hobson made things interesting when he laced a home run to the opposite field to lead off the inning but Zimmerman would slam the door on any thought of a comeback by striking out the final two Blue Devil batters for the win.
The same two teams will square off today at Green with the first pitch slated for 4:30pm.
Monday, April 11
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Lake Erie College Sweeps Tiffin
Brian Kilway Picks Up First Collegiate Win
In game two, freshman Brian Kilway (Tallmadge, Ohio/Tallmadge) tossed a complete-game, scattering eight hits in seven innings. He allowed just one earned run (two total) with four strikeouts and did not walk a batter to earn his first collegiate victory (1-2).
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Bittersweet Saturday Split
Patient Devils Run Rule Ignatius 16-6, Fall to Hoban 13-7
Akron,Ohio
The Blue Devils (6-1, 4-0) knocked off Cleveland St. Ignatius (2-2) in impressive form 16-6 in a five inning run rule affair but stumbled out of the gate against Hoban (2-2) trailing 9-0 after two innings before falling 13-7. "These are two strong programs year in and year out. It was a good chance for us to learn about ourselves today. We did a great job of being patient at the plate against Iggies and I thought the kids did a great job battling back against Hoban after being down 9-0. We made that a 9-7 game and we had chances for a key hit here or there and we might win that game," explained Kenny Linn following the Saturday twinbill.
Tallmadge faced off against Ignatius ace and Toledo recruit Cory Finkler in game one. Danny Blake set the tone for the game drawing a walk after a nine pitch at bat in the bottom of the first with the Blue and Gold down 3-0. Andrew Bonnette followed with a walk. With two outs Matt Shomo walked to load the bases and Kody Edwards got the first big hit of the inning with a two run single to right. Finkler loaded the bases again with his fourth walk of the inning and Jamie Lowery made him pay. The senior came to the plate having studied Finkler from the dugout and was expecting a first pitch fastball.....and that's exactly what he got. Lowery sent a towering shot deep over the left centerfield fence for a grandslam and a 6-3 Tallmadge lead after one.
Matt Shomo got the ball for his second start of the season and found out quickly that the hype about the Ignatius squad being a good hitting team was no hype at all. Ignatius scored three times on four hits to start the ball game. They would draw to within one at 6-5 after a two run second. Tallmadge would send the Ignatius starter to the showers in the second before he could register an out. Blake reached on an error and Bonnette reached on a fielders choice. Derek Frye doubled home Blake and Tucker Linder loaded the bases with a walk. Matt Shomo forced in a run with a walk and the day was done for Cory Finkler. The Blue Devils used a single, two walks and a hit batter to pile up a seven run second inning. Shomo settled in striking out five over five innings of work and the Devil offense scored three times for the 10 run differential and their fourth run rule game in six outings.
The host Knights of Hoban scored nine runs in the first two innings off starter Jamie Lowery and reliever Derek Frye and rode the early lead to a 13-7 win in game two. Tallmadge battled back scoring a single run in the third and picked up two more runs in the fourth when Lowery lost another ball over the fence this time a shot that cleared the scoreboard in left field. Linder picked up an RBI with an infield single and Kody Edwards had another two run single in the fifth to make it a 9-6 game. The Devils tallied a single run in the sixth on a Frye SAC fly but gave up four unearned runs in the bottom of the sixth for the 13-7 final. "Charlie (Derek Frye) did a great job of keeping us in that game. We had some opportunities that we did not take advantage of but I'm proud of how our guys battled back," said Linn.
Tallmadge must now prepare for a midweek Suburban league showdown with defending champion Green. The Bulldogs will invade Dave Young field on Tuesday for the first of two pivotal games between the leagues leaders.
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And The Hits Just Keep On Coming......
Shomo, Frye Go Deep While Hobson Quiets Colts
Lodi, Ohio
The Blue Devils improved to 5-0 on the season with a 14 hit offense and an outstanding complete game effort from senior Thomas Hobson (2-0, 1.08 ERA) as Tallmadge rolled to 10-1 win over Cloverleaf (3-2, 2-2) Thursday afternoon. Tallmadge has outscored their opponents 54-3 through their first five games and have outhit the opposition to the tune of 61-16. "Hitting, pitching, defense we are on a roll right now and we need to carry it into the weekend," said head coach Kenny Linn after the win moved the Devils to 4-0 in league play.
Senior Thomas Hobson held Lodi to just four hits and one run striking out five and not allowing a walk. The right hander retired the last 10 batters to end the game. The Colts put together a double and a two out single in the fourth inning for their only run of the two game series. "That's back to back impressive outings for Hobson who has shown great leadership on the mound," praised Linn.
Matt Shomo led off the top of the second with a 375 foot drive over the fence in left center for his fourth home run in five games and Tallmadge led 1-0 after two innings. Tallmadge broke the game open in the third with four straight hits to start the inning and scored four times to lead 5-0 after three. Following the Colts only run of the game in the fourth inning the Devils responded with a five run fifth inning highlighted by Derek Fry's 325 foot home run down the left field line. Eight of nine Blue Devil starters scored a run and all 12 players that entered the game for Tallmadge reached base.
Andrew Bonnette smacked two doubles collecting 2 RBI's and lead off hitter Danny Blake had two singles and an RBI. Frye finished the day with a single and a home run and has 12 RBI's through five games. Shomo added a ground out RBI and leads the team with 13 to go along with four home runs. Tucker Linder picked up an RBI with a single and a double that followed a 10 pitch at bat. Jamie Lowery had two singles, Hobson had an RBI double and freshman Chris Gray got his first varsity hit with a single in his only at bat.
Tallmadge will host Akron Hoban and Cleveland St. Ignatius on Saturday at Dave Young Field. Hoban and Iggies will face off at 11am followed by Tallmadge and St. Ignatius at 1pm with Hoban and the Devils finishing the day at 4pm. The weather will play a big part in Saturdays events so the schedule is subject to change.
Thursday, April 7
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Keen Ranked #1 in Nation
Devil Alum Leads Division III in Runs Scored
Cleveland, Ohio
Case Western Reserve sophomore Matt Keen is tied for first in the most recent Division III statistical release scoring 46 runs in 29 games. Keen is tied with Jonathan Hall of Trinity (TX) at 46 runs scored. However, Keen has amassed his total in four less games than Hall. Keen is currently batting .409 for Case with an on base % of .493 and is a perfect 11 of 11 in stolen base attempts. Teammate Chad Mullins is a big reason for Keen's success as the senior leads the nation in RBI's with 53 through 29 games. Case Western recently completed a sweep of Hiram where Keen scored three times in the two game series to bring his total to 49.
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Are These Guys For Real!?
Linder K's 10, Shomo Goes Yard, Devils Win 13-0 in Five Innings Over Colts
Kent, Ohio
If the first four games of the season were prize fights the Devils would be 4-0 with three knockouts and a unanimous decision. For the third time in four games Tallmadge run ruled their opponent. Tuesday it was the Colts of Cloverleaf who faced outstanding pitching and a ten hit attack from the Devils as Tallmadge won 13-0 in five innings at Kent States Olga Mural Field. "I can't say enough about the start we've gotten off to. We just have to keep it going," said head coach Kenny Linn.
Let's take a look inside the numbers...and be careful they are not for the feint hearted. Four game runs scored average is 11, hits per game is almost 12 and runs given up per game is .50. Remember these numbers are for only 23 innings not the 28 innings if the games had been played in full.
Junior Tucker Linder made his second appearance of the season and gave up 2 hits over four innings of work striking out 10. Linder did not give up a walk in the contest and only two balls left the infield. Senior Derek Frye pitched the final inning. "He was bringing it pretty good with the fastball today, but the curveball and the slider made it a tough day on the hitters," explained pitching coach Ben Shepherd.
Junior Matt Shomo might be the hottest hitter in the state as the right fielder went 3 for 3 with a single, triple and his third home run of the season. "He is just so dialed in right now. His bat speed is incredible and pitchers are having a tough time getting anything by him," said Linn. Danny Blake and Andrew Bonnette continue to set the table at the top of the order and Frye, Linder and Shomo continue to clear it. Frye used a single and a triple to drive in five runs. Linder had two RBI's and a single. Thomas Hobson had a triple, Blake singled and scored twice while Bonnette doubled and scored twice. Sophomore Cordt Skraba added an infield single to the 10 hit attack. Every hitter scored a run for Tallmadge and they did it in just five innings.
The same two teams will face off tomorrow in Lodi with the first pitch scheduled for 4:30pm.
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Circle City Mashers
Devils Crush Falls 10-1, Victory is 200th for Linn
Tallmadge, Ohio
Head coach Kenny Linn notched career win 200 in impressive fashion as the Blue Devils (3-0, 2-0) defeated visiting Cuyahoga Falls 10-1 Saturday at Dave Young Field. In three games so far this season Tallmadge is scoring runs at better than ten a game. The Tallmadge offense is averaging 12+ hits per game through the first three contests and when you add in about four walks per game that is a lot of base runners. "We may not have faced that really great pitcher yet but we have faced some pretty good pitchers and our guys have really gotten after them," said Linn. "Our guys have been doing a great job at the plate and we have gotten production top to bottom of the line up."
Maybe being overlooked in the incredible offensive start to the season is the fact that the Blue Devils have given up just two runs in three games and only one earned run in 18 innings. Junior Matt Shomo picked up his first career varsity win Saturday going five innings allowing one unearned run, striking out six while giving up just four hits. Senior Jamie Lowery closed out the games final two innings striking out two and not allowing a run or a hit.
Tallmadge scored four times in the first inning on three hits and put three more runs on the board with three hits in the second inning. Tallmadge would stretch their lead to 8-1 with a single run in the fifth and Matt Shomo would end the scoring with his second home run in three games as he lifted a two run dinger over the left field fence to extend the THS lead to 10-1. "Where do you want to start when it comes to Matt. He pitched one heck of a game today. He struck out the side after putting two men on in the third, that was the top of the order and was a key to the win. He has made great strides from last year to this year in every aspect of the game. At the plate he has been outstanding," complimented Linn.
Shomo finished the day 3 for 3 with a home run, two singles, a walk and four RBI's. Andrew Bonnette was 2 for 4 with three RBI's and sophomore Kody Edwards was 2 for 4 with 2 RBI's. Derek Frye, Tucker Linder, Thomas Hobson and Matt Boyer all had singles for Tallmadge. Danny Blake walked twice and scored two runs from the lead off spot.
Tallmadge will host Cloverleaf at Kent States Olga Mural Field on Monday with the first pitch slated for 4:30pm.
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Sweet Suburban Sweep!
Devils Run Rule Grizzlies 11-1
Wadsworth, Ohio
Tallmadge (2-0, 2-0) has sent a message to the rest of the Suburban League with a win over Wadsworth 11-1 on Friday completing a sweep in week one of league play. It is not just the fact that Tallmadge is off to a 2-0 start as much as how they have done it. The Devils pounded out 26 hits, scoring 21 runs while holding the Grizzlies (1-2, 0-2) to just six hits and one run in the two game series. "I looked at that schedule when it came out and I was really concerned when I saw them right out of the chute. We've got a lot of new faces in our lineup and Wadsworth is always a tough series. Our guys have impressed me from day one with their attitude, work ethic and purpose. It all started at the Alliance scrimmage and they have carried it through the Dayton trip and into week one," explained Kenny Linn.
Senior Thomas Hobson took the mound Friday and did not disappoint throwing a six hit five strikeout gem to go 1-0 on the season. "Hobby has had that senior focus going since practice started and he showed it all game today with his mound presence."
The Tallmadge offense continued to pound the baseball smacking 12 hits in six innings. The Devils now have 26 hits in just 11 innings. Derek Frye was 3 for 4 with two RBI's. Andrew Bonnette was 2 for 3 with two runs scored. Bonnette started the season with five straight hits over two games. Danny Blake continues to be the table setter at the top of the order scoring twice and reaching base three times with a single and two walks. Matt Shomo had a double and two RBI's and second baseman Kody Edwards picked up two RBI's on a single through the middle. Hobson was just as impressive at the plate as he was on the mound going 3 for 4 with a double and two singles. Senior Jamie Lowery added a double and two walks to the THS offense.
Tallmadge opened the scoring with two runs in the third and blew the game open with six runs in the fourth inning. The Devils took advantage of a couple of Grizzly errors to plate five unearned runs in the six run fourth. Three runs on four hits in the sixth would end the game via the 10 run rule.
Tallmadge is scheduled to host the Cuyahoga Falls Black Tigers at Dave Young Field Saturday at 11am in a non-league tilt.
Friday, April 1
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GW's Pakan Out With Broken Wrist
2009 THS Grad Out 3 Weeks to Month
Former Tallmadge standout Paul Pakan will be out of the George Washington lineup three weeks to a month after breaking a bone in his wrist. Pakan slightly fractured the bone after being hit by a pitch two weeks ago. After resting for a week Pakan felt pain return during batting practice for the Colonials recent matchup with #1 Virginia. It was revealed the fracture deepened putting the infielder on the disabled list. After earning a varsity letter as a freshman Pakan had started 17 games this season before the injury.
Friday, April 1
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Matt Keen Named UAA All-Tourney Again
Case Western Standout Gets Nod for Second Year
PITTSFORD, NY – Four members of the Case Western Reserve University baseball team have been selected to the 2011 University Athletic Association All-Tournament Team, announced by the UAA office on Wednesday, March 23. The Spartans were runner-up at the five-day event (March 9-13) in Clermont, Florida.
The Spartans (4-2 UAA) tied with UAA Champion Emory University (GA) for the most selections. Case’s honorees include senior third baseman Chad Mullins (Fredericksburg, OH/Waynedale), senior catcher Steve Bills (Greensburg, PA/Hempfield), junior outfielder Sam Alexander (Alexandria, VA/T.C. Williams) and sophomore shortstop Matt Keen (Tallmadge, OH/Tallmadge).
Keen - pictured, right -, last year’s tournament MVP, finished fourth during this year’s championship with a .448 average (13-of-29) and totaled six RBI and three steals. He is hitting .407 for the year with 20 RBI and leads the team in stolen bases (9-of-9).
Friday, April 1
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Mercyhurst Lakers Stop Lake Erie 18-2
Cochran Gets Best of Former Devil Teammates
Erie, Pa.
Several Blue Devil alumni met on the diamond recently as Mercyhurst and Lake Erie got together for a mid-week affair. Joe Cochran and his Lakers got the best of the Storm by an 18-2 final. Cochran came on in relief for the Lakers pitching three scoreless innings allowing just two hits while striking out three. One of the strikeout victims was former Blue Devil center fielder Garrett Emling who is sporting a .353 batting average for Lake Erie. Cochran also faced former teammate Patrick Kilway and got him to fly out to left field. Kilway finished the day with an RBI in two at bats while Emling walked twice, stole two bases and scored a run. The Lakers are ranked third in their NCAA Division II Regional. Lake Erie freshman Brian Kilway did not see action for the Storm but has a third best 1.59 ERA in five appearances on the mound.
Thursday, March 31
Grandson Wears No. 26 to Honor Fishbaugh
Thomas Linder sports the No. 26 jersey in left field during the team's hope opener.
On a sunny but cold Sunday afternoon in Westerville, the Otterbein University baseball team took to Fishbaugh Field for its home opener against John Carroll University. It proved to be an entertaining game back and forth that eventually saw JCU build a 7-2 lead. The Cards battled back to tie the game at 7-7, but headed into the bottom of the ninth trailing 9-8.
A couple of base hits drew Otterbein even at 9-9, but the inning wasn’t finished as the Cards loaded the bases while down to their final out. Heading to the plate was Thomas Linder, a freshman from Tallmadge, Ohio, who entered the game in the seventh inning as the left fielder. The slender, gangly right-handed hitter strode to the plate wearing No. 26 on his pin-striped uniform with his socks pulled high in "old school” fashion.
Linder is the grandson of legendary Otterbein coach Dick Fishbaugh, who accumulated more than 600 wins over his 33 seasons at the helm before a heart attack took his life in 1999. It was the first time the No. 26 appeared on the field in eleven seasons. It was the number that the freshman requested, but had to stand up before the administration and receive permission. He dug in with confidence as grandma, mom, dad, aunt, and uncle all watched on. The first pitch was a fastball strike and caught Thomas off guard. After all, the Blue Streak reliever had started the last six batters off with a breaking ball. Thinking he would see another heater, Thomas was frozen with a perfect breaking ball for strike two.
It was a script that only Hollywood could have written. The grandson of the legendary coach comes to bat on the field named for his grandfather, with a chance to win a come-from-behind game with the bases loaded, two outs, and down to his final strike … all while wearing the No. 26. The 0-2 pitch sailed to home plate with a noticeable curve ball spin, and Thomas waited back just like he had been taught since his days as a Little Leaguer. He hit the ball hard to the right side of the infield, but with a flash of leather and a flick of the wrist the second baseman tossed to first for the final out of the inning. After all, this was Westerville, not Hollywood.
I wonder what the old coach would have said to the left fielder as he entered the dugout after the at bat. "I'd have hit the fast ball" or "Let's play defense"… or maybe nothing at all. It might have been easy for Grandpa to use a little divine intervention and guide that ball through the infield, but what good would that have done? It would have gone against everything Coach Fishbaugh believed in. Nothing is ever given to you, it's hard work and dedication that gets that ball through the infield, you have to keep working hard so next time you'll have success. The Cards would rally again in the bottom of the tenth and win the game by a final of 10-9.
It wasn't the moment in the ninth I'll remember most about the game, not even close. The night before the game, Thomas was disappointed that he couldn't wear No. 26 during the home opener, because the number hadn't been available for eleven years and the ordered jerseys for 2011 hadn't arrived yet. As our family relaxed at the Fishbaugh home late Saturday night, Thomas emerged from the basement with his grandfather’s pin-striped No. 26 jersey where it had been hanging in the laundry room for eleven years. He proclaimed with a smile, "I'm wearing this tomorrow".... and that's exactly what he did.
So when he sprinted from the dugout and headed to left field, he wasn't wearing the temporary No. 27 he was given. He was wearing 26. Not just the No. 26, but the No. 26 jersey that his grandfather wore as he waved runners home from the third base coaches box; the jersey that was worn for so many Cardinal victories; a jersey that fit the freshman like it was tailored for him. That's the moment I'll remember most. The freshman left fielder sprinting to his position in a bright mid-Ohio sun beaming with pride, carrying tradition and a little piece of his grandfather with him out on to the field ... right where they both belong.
Linder is the grandson of legendary Otterbein coach Dick Fishbaugh, who accumulated more than 600 wins over his 33 seasons at the helm before a heart attack took his life in 1999. It was the first time the No. 26 appeared on the field in eleven seasons. It was the number that the freshman requested, but had to stand up before the administration and receive permission. He dug in with confidence as grandma, mom, dad, aunt, and uncle all watched on. The first pitch was a fastball strike and caught Thomas off guard. After all, the Blue Streak reliever had started the last six batters off with a breaking ball. Thinking he would see another heater, Thomas was frozen with a perfect breaking ball for strike two.
It was a script that only Hollywood could have written. The grandson of the legendary coach comes to bat on the field named for his grandfather, with a chance to win a come-from-behind game with the bases loaded, two outs, and down to his final strike … all while wearing the No. 26. The 0-2 pitch sailed to home plate with a noticeable curve ball spin, and Thomas waited back just like he had been taught since his days as a Little Leaguer. He hit the ball hard to the right side of the infield, but with a flash of leather and a flick of the wrist the second baseman tossed to first for the final out of the inning. After all, this was Westerville, not Hollywood.
It wasn't the moment in the ninth I'll remember most about the game, not even close. The night before the game, Thomas was disappointed that he couldn't wear No. 26 during the home opener, because the number hadn't been available for eleven years and the ordered jerseys for 2011 hadn't arrived yet. As our family relaxed at the Fishbaugh home late Saturday night, Thomas emerged from the basement with his grandfather’s pin-striped No. 26 jersey where it had been hanging in the laundry room for eleven years. He proclaimed with a smile, "I'm wearing this tomorrow".... and that's exactly what he did.
So when he sprinted from the dugout and headed to left field, he wasn't wearing the temporary No. 27 he was given. He was wearing 26. Not just the No. 26, but the No. 26 jersey that his grandfather wore as he waved runners home from the third base coaches box; the jersey that was worn for so many Cardinal victories; a jersey that fit the freshman like it was tailored for him. That's the moment I'll remember most. The freshman left fielder sprinting to his position in a bright mid-Ohio sun beaming with pride, carrying tradition and a little piece of his grandfather with him out on to the field ... right where they both belong.
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Springtime in Ohio!
Less than twenty four hours from celebrating an opening day win on a sun drenched Tuesday afternoon the Blue Devils rematch with Wadsworth is postponed for snow. Can you honestly say you are shocked? It happens every year, as Old Man Winter refuses to go away quietly, we get that one last 'take that Ohio' from the old bastard. Stay tuned for make up dates and schedule changes.
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Who's The Man Behind That Camera?
Local Photographer has Passion for Sports
If you are a local sports fan the chances are good when you open the news paper or peruse a sports website you have seen the work of local photographer Jeff Harwell. Employed full time at the University of Akron during the day, Harwell spends his evenings fulfilling his true passion of sports photography. I met Jeff a few years back at the MAC basketball tournament and when I realized who he was I complimented him on his work. You'll see Jeff at sporting events throughout the season and he is one of the best. He has graciously decided to donate some of his work to our website. I am thankful beyond words and as you will see his images can be stunning. Jeff has a website where you can purchase his work and he covers all sports so be sure to check it out at www.harwellphoto.com. Again, I thank Jeff for donating to our Blue Devil Baseball website.
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Boom! Goes the Devils
Linder Throws No Hitter, Shomo Goes Yard in 10-0 Win
Tallmadge,Ohio
The Blue Devils (1-0,1-0) opened the 2011 season with a bang Tuesday afternoon at Dave Young Field with a run rule shortened 10-0 win over the visiting Wadsworth Grizzlies (1-1,0-1). Junior right hander Tucker Linder tossed his second career no hitter and Matt Shomo put an exclamation point on the 14 hit Tallmadge offense with a three run blast to left field. "It's always nice to get that first win, but man that was impressive," smiled head coach Kenny Linn.
The Devils started their scoring in the second with a lead off single to left by Linder. Kody Edwards pushed Linder to second with a walk and both scored when senior Thomas Hobson stroked a line drive double over the right fielders head to the base of the wall. Tallmadge would add a single run in the third. Danny Blake would lead off the inning with a single but was cut down at the plate trying to score on an Andrew Bonnette double. Derek Frye would pick up the RBI with a single to right center for a 3-0 Devil advantage.
Tallmadge would put the game away with a seven run fourth inning. Blake would load the bases with a walk following back to back singles by Cordt and Zach Skraba. Bonnette would pick up an RBI with a single advancing everyone ninety feet. Frye would break the game open with a rocket inside the bag at third scoring two runs with a double. Bonnette would also score clearing the bases when the left fielder bobbled the ball. Linder singled to center putting runners on first and third. Junior Matt Shomo turned on a pitch and sent a towering drive over the fence and halfway up the trees down the left field line putting the Blue and Gold up 10-0. It was the first hit for Shomo on the varsity level and he made it a memorable one. Linder would end the game in the fifth completing the no hit effort by picking off a runner at first for the final out.
Bonnette and Linder went 3 for 3 on the day as part of the 14 hit offense. Cordt Skraba was 2 for 2 and Derek Frye was 2 for 3 with a double and three RBI's. Hobson had a double and 2 RBI's, while Blake and Zach Skraba each singled. Eight of nine batters had a hit on the day and eight of nine hitters scored a run for Tallmadge.
The Tallmadge JV's lost 10-0 at Wadsworth in five innings.
The same two teams will meet again today at Wadsworth with a 4:30pm first pitch weather permitting.
Monday, March 28
2011 Preview
Infielders and Outfielders
Tallmadge, Ohio
Tuesday afternoon the Blue Devils will open the 2011 season and for this years team to be successful a solid defense will be a key factor. The good news is that there is some experience spread throughout the lineup. "We've had to move some guys around but I think we can be a very solid team defensively," explained head coach Kenny Linn.
At first base seniors Derek Frye and Jamie Lowery will see time along with junior Tucker Linder. The second base spot has been won by sophomore Kody Edwards who will also be a backup catcher. Junior Danny Blake has moved over from second base and has proven to be a solid shortstop during the preseason. Third base will again be handled by senior Thomas Hobson who proved to be outstanding at the hot corner last season. When Hobson pitches, Frye, Linder or Matt Shomo will anchor the corner.
Solid infield play will allow senior Andrew Bonnette to roam the outfield from center. "It's his best position and he has the ability to change the game from there with his defense," praised Linn. Bonnette has already thrown runners out at first and home during the preseason as well as making several diving catchers in the outfield. Matt Shomo will start in right or left field but is the teams true utility player who may be spotted just about anywhere during the season. Sophomore Cordt Skraba is nursing a sore elbow and should be back as a starter in the outfield once he is given the ok to throw. Zach Skraba, Chris Gray, Logan Banks and Dino Mierzejewski will see time in the outfield from game to game.
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Southern Exposure
Devils End Spring Training With 5-4 Win Over Vandalia Butler
Vandalia, Ohio
The Blue Devils put a wrap on spring training with a 5-4 win over the Aviators of Vandalia Butler on a cold but sunny Saturday afternoon in Southwest Ohio. Tallmadge finished the scrimmage portion of their schedule 3-0-1. As a staff the Devil starting pitchers gave up just 1 run in the first four innings of all four games combined. "We had some questions about our pitching coming in but we feel pretty good about it after what we saw in these four games," said head coach Kenny Linn following Saturdays win.
Senior Thomas Hobson gave his coaches something to smile about as he pitched five innings of one hit scoreless baseball before giving way to the bullpen. "I can't say enough good things about 'Hobby'. He has been ready to go since day one. He was ahead in the count all day today and one hit a very good Butler team," praised Linn. Tallmadge led 5-0 going into the bottom of the sixth when Butler scored a single tally off Andrew Bonnette who was getting a look on the mound from the coaches. With two outs in the seventh Butler would take advantage of an error while stringing together three straight infield hits to plate three unearned runs for the 5-4 final.
Tallmdge scored a run in the second when Tucker Linder singled through the right side, stole second and rode home on a Kody Edwards RBI base hit up the middle. The game would stay 1-0 until a four run Tallmadge sixth inning. The Devils sent nine men to the plate in the sixth with Linder, Matt Shomo, Edwards and Dino Mierzejewski picking up RBI's for the Blue and Gold. "We really had some good at bats all weekend. The guys are swinging it well right now. It was a great weekend in that we got to see a lot of guys in game situations that we have not had a chance to see. I think these guys are ready to get things going on Tuesday," said Linn. Tallmadge had seven hits in the game led by sophomore Kody Edwards with two singles. Cordt Skraba, Matt Boyer, Derek Frye, Bonnette and Linder all added singles to the Tallmadge offense.
Tallmadge will open the season on the road against league foe Wadsworth on Tuesday at 4:30pm.
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Devils Thump Huber Heights Wayne 11-1
THS Pounds Out 12 Hits in Scrimmage Victory
Huber Heights, Ohio
While traveling south for warmer weather hasn't exactly worked out the Devils have accomplished their main goal which is to get games in prior to Tuesday's league and season opener. Friday afternoon Tallmadge used a potent offense, outstanding defense and great pitching to post an 11-1 scrimmage win over host Huber Heights Wayne. "These are the conditions we are going to be playing in come Tuesday so we can't be afraid to get out on the field," said Kenny Linn about the game time temp of thirty nine degrees.
For the second time in as many days Tallmadge put runs on the board in their first at bat. Danny Blake continues to impress from the lead off spot reaching on a walk and getting into scoring position with a stolen base. Blake scored the first run of the game when Andrew Bonnette reached on a throwing error by the shortstop. Bonnette advanced to second on a passed ball and scored on a Derek Frye RBI single. Four hole hitter Tucker Linder put the Devils up 4-0 when he deposited an 0-2 fastball off the top of the fence in right field for a 310 foot two run home run.
Bonnette drove in a run in the second inning with an RBI single scoring Matt Boyer. Logan Banks used a sacrifice fly to score a run and Linder picked up another RBI with a single to right making it a 7-0 lead after five innings. Blake, Cordt Skraba and Linder picked up RBI's in a three run sixth as the Devils built their lead to 10-0. Blake would pick up another RBI in the top of the seventh with an opposite field single.
Senior Derek "Charlie" Frye threw a solid four innings in the start giving up just three hits and no runs. He was aided by an outstanding play by center fielder Andrew Bonnette who charged a single to center and threw a strike to Boyer at the plate who applied the tag to take a run away. Lefty Logan Banks finished the game allowing only one unearned run while striking out three.
Tallmadge will close out the three game scrimmage road trip as they travel to Vandalia Butler tomorrow to take on the Aviators with the first pitch scheduled for noon.
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It's a Draw!
Tallmadge Battles Mason to 2-2 Tie
Mason, Ohio
On a breezy balmy thirty seven degree Thursday afternoon Tallmadge faced the Mason Comets in the first of a three game scrimmage road trip over Spring Break and battled to a 2-2 tie after seven innings. "It was nice to get the work in but it was time to call it a day. It was really cold," said head coach Kenny Linn.
Tallmadge got on the board first without the aid of a base hit. Danny Blake led off the game with an seven pitch at bat before being hit by a pitch. Andrew Bonnette worked a walk in another lengthy eight pitch at bat. A double steal saw the Mason catcher throw the ball into left field and Blake scored from second and Bonnette advanced to third. Bonnette would score from third on a wild pitch.
Junior Tucker Linder pitched one hit shut out ball through four innings of work. The Comets would tie the game in the fifth collecting three straight singles off reliever Matt Shomo. Shomo showed a bit of nerves early in his first varsity appearance on the mound but settled in nicely retiring the last seven batters he faced. "Matt threw really well. The last hit was a fly ball we have to catch. It was a pretty tight strike zone all day and I thought our guys did well not to get frustrated."
Tallmadge had just three hits on the day, one each from Blake, Bonnette and Shomo. The Blue Devils got good defensive performances from Blake at shortstop who had no errors in six chances, Matt Boyer behind the plate who threw out a runner in the bottom of the seventh and Bonnette who made several outstanding plays showing great range in centerfield. "Andrew made some great reads and great catches while Boyer just seems to get better with every inning," said Linn.
The Devils will visit Huber Heights Wayne tomorrow with first pitch slated for 4pm.
Notes:Aye, Aye Captain! Kenny Linn announced this years captains. Juniors Matt Shomo, Tucker Linder and seniors Andrew Bonnette and Thomas Hobson were selected by coaches and players.
The Devils had six hitters reach base in the game without the benefit of a hit and only two of those were walked.
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2011 Season Preview
Pitchers and Catchers
Tallamdge,Ohio
There are plenty of questions surrounding this years squad and many of those questions swirl around the pitchers and catchers. "This is the least amount of varsity pitching experience we have returning since I have been here," related pitching coach Ben Shepherd. "I think we have some talented kids they just don't have a lot of time on the varsity mound."
While the returning pitchers may not have an extensive varsity resume, the resume of the catching staff is even thinner. Gone are Phil Emling (graduation) and Johnny Linn (transfer) while injury has moved the only experienced catcher Derek Frye to first base and DH. "We have a wide open battle for the catcher position and the preseason scrimmages will go a long way in determining who the guy will be," said head coach Kenny Linn. Junior Matt Boyer steps up from the junior varsity level along with sophomore Zach Skraba. Sophomore Kody Edwards is also in the mix since moving to catcher during the first week of practice. Edwards is also a leading candidate for work at second base. "Priority one is the ability to catch and play defense, if we can get offense from the catcher spot that's always a bonus. We may not have experience but we have talent. All three of these guys have the talent to be a starting catcher it's just a matter who can bring that talent out on the field and at the plate."
Two year letter winner junior Tucker Linder returns as the anchor of the starting rotation. The two time HM All-League selection is 10-4 in two seasons with an era of 2.35 while opponents have hit just .210 against the right hander. Linder has struck out 89 batters in 82 innings of work. Last season Linder threw a six inning perfect game to lead Tallmadge to a 10-0 Sectional final win over Fairless. "In Tucker we have a top of the line number one and that can have a calming effect on the whole team. He continues to get better every outing not only from the teams he has faced the last two seasons for us but the type of competition he has faced during the summer and fall," explained Linn. "He has shown the ability to pitch through adversity if our defense has struggled behind him and that shows maturity."
Senior Thomas Hobson appeared in six games last including two starts. The right hander was 1-2 in 16 innings of work. "Thomas has looked very good in his early workouts. He is stronger and is showing great confidence as he enters his senior year," said Linn. "Thomas give us a great chance to win every time he goes to the mound because he is such a competitor." Hobson may have been a pitching question mark last season but this year there is no doubt what he will be able to give the team every time out.
Ready for a breakout season this year is junior Matt Shomo. The right hander was the ace of the junior varsity staff last season while earning his first letter for the varsity as a utility player. "Matt is another one of those guys who has matured physically and we're expecting big things from him on the mound, at the plate and in the field. He has really made a big jump from last year, but I'm not surprised." Shomo has been an outstanding pitcher at every level and now he will get his chance on the varsity stage.
Senior left hander Jamie Lowery has been slowed by a hamstring injury during preseason practices. "Jamie's injury is unfortunate and has really slowed his progress. It actually has set him back because he had looked very good early. Hopefully he can get back quickly, he is a big part of our pitching staff." Lowery finished last season with a 1.85 era in six appearances over eleven innings.
Seniors Derek Frye and Andrew Bonnette will also be an option for head coach Kenny Linn while upcoming scrimmages will give sophomores Nick Robinson and Logan Banks an opportunity to show what they are capable of.
"Like much of what we have this season, our pitchers and catchers are high on talent but short on experience. It will be a matter of how quickly they come along that will decide our success," explained Linn.
Notes: Sophomore Zach Cleary will be lost for the season following knee surgery for a torn ACL in his knee. Cleary was on the depth chart as an out fielder and on the mound. The left hander is an outstanding hitter who could have been used a pinch runner as well.
Junior right hander Nathan Jackson will join the team on the injured reserve list as he rehabs an elbow injury. Jackson could be an outstanding asset to the pitching staff if all goes well in his recovery.
Weather pending, the Blue Devils will travel to Mason, Ohio on Thursday to begin a three game in three days series against Mason, Huber Heights and Vandalia Butler. All of the games are scrimmages.
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March Madness
Devils Bomb Aviators 12-1 in First Scrimmage
Alliance,Ohio
For appearing outside for just the third day this season the Blue Devils looked very impressive in a 12-1 preseason rout of Alliance 12-1 in eight innings of play. Six Tallmadge pitchers combined to strike out 12 Aviators. "We had real good swings and pitched extremely well. Actually I wish we could have seen some more ground balls but I'll take all the strikeouts," said head coach Kenny Linn.
Junior Tucker Linder went the first inning striking out two without a hit. Senior Thomas Hobson struck out two in a hitless second inning. Junior Matt Shomo gave up an unearned run on a passed ball in the third but struck out two getting out of a bases loaded jam in the third. Senior Derek Frye went two scoreless innings with three K's. Sophomore lefty Logan Banks worked a scoreless 6th with one strike out and fellow classmate Nick Robinson closed out the final two innings with a pair of K's.
Tallmadge collected 11 hits led by Linder who had three hits and five RBI's, including a triple that hit the base of the wall in center field. Derek "Charlie" Frye was 2 for 2 with two singles and a walk. Danny Blake had a double that plated two runs and reached on three walks scoring four times in the game. Kody Edwards had an RBI single and Andrew Bonnette, Matt Shomo, Zack Skraba, along with Chris Gray all singled.
The Blue Devils will begin spring break on Monday before traveling to Dayton for a three game series at the end of the week.
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Luck of the Irish
Devils Practice Outdoors March 17th
Dave Young Field, Tallmadge, Ohio
Visitors passing by Dave Young Field on Thursday afternoon were not seeing things, the outfield grass was indeed littered with baseball players. The Blue Devils took advantage of sixty degree temperatures to take part in their first outdoor practice of the season. "It's great just to get outdoors and throw the ball around," said head coach Kenny Linn.
Offseason drainage added to the outfield in left field has already shown benefits as the area traditionally known as the swamp was almost playable. In seasons past with all the snow and recent rain there would have been standing water in left field.
The Blue Devils will take advantage of a sunny forecast on Friday as they prepare for three scrimmage games next week in Dayton.
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Wednesday, March 2
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Senior Andrew Bonnette a Natural Born Leader
Tallmadge, Ohio
If you ask his parents they’ll tell you he’s been swinging a bat ever since he could pick one up. “I remember running around the house hitting whiffle balls everywhere. When I went outside I would hit them over the house,” remembers Blue Devil senior Andrew Bonnette. “I love to hit....always have,” and hit he does. Last season Bonnette earned 2nd team All-League honors after hitting .370 with eight doubles and 18 RBI's. "Andrew is a guy who could hit anywhere one through five in our lineup, he's that good," said head coach Kenny Linn. "He's got good pop in his bat and can hit a pitch anywhere in the zone."
This season Bonnette will take on the additional role of senior leader. “Being a leader comes natural for me, I really enjoy it. I need to lead vocally, but by my actions and my performance as well. If we are going to have success this season we are going to have to out hustle teams, be more focused than other teams and not beat ourselves with mistakes. I don’t think we have the team like in the past where we can outhit our mistakes.” Bonnette spent the last two seasons on the gridiron for the Blue Devils and says he can bring some of the lessons he learned there to the diamond. “Hard work, heart and chemistry can be more important than talent.” Bonnette practices what he preaches and made his hard work pay off to the tune of 47 catches for 797 yards and six touchdowns as a wide receiver last fall. It's the same speed and ability he used to garner 1st team All-League and 2nd team All-District honors in football that make him an outstanding center fielder. "It's my natural position, it's what I've played my whole life. I'm a team guy though and if it helps the team to have me at shortstop that is where I'll go." Last season Bonnette spent time at both positions and the possibility of him playing both this season is very real. "Depends on the day," says Linn. "One day I've got him at short, the next he's in center. We'll have to wait and see how things shake out around him. He'll be fine wherever he plays."
One thing is a given, if the Devils are to have success on the diamond this spring they are going to need a healthy dose of Andrew Bonnette.....and Andrew wouldn't have it any other way.
The Andrew Bonnette File
Nickname- AB, Drew
Senior 6'0 170 lbs.
Throws R/Bats R Center Field, Shortstop
Wears number 15 because his mom wore that number for the Ellet softball team.
Keeps #15 because he saw Jim Edmunds play center field for the Angels and liked his style.
Three Time Tallmadge Little League All-Star
Little League Team-Indians
Quote: "Playing on "A" field is like playing in the Major leagues. Tallmadge Little League was the best baseball experience of my life!"
Best Little League Memory-"Hitting a home run to center field off the Reds Tucker Linder on "A" field."
Summer Teams- Boys of Summer -13 and 14, Tallmadge Vipers -15,16 and 17
TV Show-"Lights Out" boxing show on FX
Movie-"Remember the Titans"
Food-Cheese Ravioli
High School Memory-2010 Football season, 11-1 with League Title
Pregame Meal-"Eight carrots, a bottle of water, a PBJ sandwich"
Lucky Charm-"Gotta have my batting gloves"
Goals-Hit over .400, 30 RBI's, 20 Stolen bases, League Title and a State Championship
Future-"I'm currently looking at Akron or Walsh to continue my Education and play baseball. Sports Management or possibly teach and coach."
Thursday, January 6
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Blue Devil Schedule Strong as Ever
2011 Features St. Ed's and Ignatius
Tallmadge, Ohio
Head coach Kenny Linn has loaded the 2011 schedule with another list of who's who when it comes to Northeast Ohio baseball. The Devils will face St. Ed's and Ignatius as well as Mentor and Strongsville as part of their non conference schedule. Non conference games also include traditional rivals Hoban, SVSM and will include another trip to Columbus to play Delaware Hays and Olentangy Liberty. "It is as strong a schedule as we have ever had here and I think our guys will be up to the task," said Linn.
The Blue Devils will again participate in the Cancer Awareness Classic hosted by Hudson and will face Jackson on April 29 and conclude the event with a double header against Kirtland and Kenston on the 30th at Kent State. "We are proud to be a part of this event each year because it is a win win for all involved."
Tallmadge will open the season and the conference March 29th on the road at Wadsworth. THS will face defending Suburban League champion Green on April 12th and 13th. A home doubleheader April 9th with Ignatius and Hoban will be a matchup that fans will be sure to want to mark their calendars for.
Tallmadge will travel southwest to the Dayton area to get some early scrimmages in facing Mason, Huber Hts. and Vandalia Butler in late March. Butler boasts the number one prospect in the state in the class of 2012 with 6'9" RHP Taylor Cherry. Cherry is ranked the 5th best player in the nation by Perfect Game and is a projected 1st round draft pick out of high school.
Baseball is just around the corner with pitchers and catchers set to report in February.
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Winter Workouts
Devils Go the Extra Mile
Tallmadge, Ohio
November, December, January and March are not the months that ones mind wanders to the thoughts of baseball, but for many Tallmadge baseball hopefuls these months can be the most productive of all when it comes to getting a leg up on the competition.
The Strike Zone Academy owners Bob McCrackin and Jeff Tabaka both agree the winter months can make a big difference in the spring performance of high school players. "I've been at this for 25 years and I've seen a lot of kids come through that door that reap huge benefits from putting the extra work in when the snow is flying," said McCrackin a former catcher. "It's no surprise that the kids that put time in during the winter are the ones you read about in the spring," added Tabaka, a Kent State product and former major league pitcher.
It is a well documented reality that high school sports has become a year round business and whether or not you agree is not the point. The point is...to be in the top tier of any sport these days the time spent with high school coaches at OHSAA regulated high school practices just isn't enough anymore. Baseball for example, can now be played, practiced or showcased pretty much 12 months out of the year. It used to be only elite players could find opportunities to play year round by traveling to warm weather states and breaking the bank to play games in the fall and winter. Much has changed and now players can play through the fall on local or travel teams. Indoor winter leagues now exist in the north so players need never put their bat bag away. Whether or not this is all a good idea or totally beneficial to all involved is an entirely different story. The specialization of high school athletes has gone a bit too far and it is even worse when it comes to younger athletes.
"The big thing I think these kids get when they leave here is confidence," said McCrackin. "We have the opportunity to work one on one with the players and we have no goal in mind but to have them be better at the end of a session than they were at the beginning." During the winter it's not about wins or losses, championships or team goals it's about individual improvement. "We're working with kids from across five or six counties we don't see them as this team or that team and unlike coaches we aren't worried about lineups, games or who should be a starter. All we see is a kid who is making the effort to get off the couch, put the video game down and work at being a better player."
Tabaka and McCrackin have been teamed up the past seven years and have a long list of alumni past and present who have continued playing baseball at the college level. "For my pitchers we concentrate on improving arm strength, developing other pitches and most of all believing in themselves and trusting their talent, it's all about confidence," said Tabaka. "We have kids at all stages of their pitching careers and you have to treat them all individually."
The Strike Zone is proud of its Tallmadge connection. "Many of the best Tallmadge players honed their skills right here in these cages and we continue to have a lot of Tallmadge players in our program," boasted McCrackin. This winter is no different as several players from Tallmadge are getting their offseason work in under the tutelage of the Strike Zone instructors. THS players also take advantage of other local workout facilities and it is this offseason dedication that year in and year out keeps Tallmadge baseball at the top of the heap.
Believe it or not the high school baseball season is just around the corner....but for some Blue Devils, the season never ended.
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Pair of Devils Participate in MLB Scout Camp
Columbus, Ohio
The first annual Midwest Redbirds baseball camp took place Sunday at Dublin Jerome high school in Dublin, Ohio. The camp was sponsored by the Midwest Redbird baseball organization led by St. Louis Cardinals area scout Brian Hopkins. "This is our first year for the camp and I couldn't be happier with the turnout for this event," said Hopkins. The Dublin event maxed out with sixty participants and a second camp on Monday in Westlake boasted sixty three participants. The camp staff consisted of area major league scouts from the Indians, Reds, Orioles, Rockies, Padres, Mariners, Cardinals and Blue Jays. The scouts instructed campers in position work, pitching, hitting drills and base running. Players also ran a timed forty yard dash. While seving as instructors the scouts were also evaluating players for future pro potential.
Tallmadge high school juniors Danny Blake and Tucker Linder took part in the day long camp on Sunday in Dublin. "There was some stuff that was pretty basic but I still picked up some good things from the experience. I really liked the hitting stations and the coaches were all great," said Blake a middle infielder for the Blue Devils.
Colorado Rockies scout Ed Santa served as an instructor but was also evaluating possible players for the 2011 East Coast Pro Scout team. Santa serves as one of six coaches and also helps select the squad that each year travels to Lakeland, Florida to participate in one of the nations top high school events. "The East Coast Pro Scout event is the best of the best from across the nation training together and competing against one another for four days. Players live in dorms, eat meals together and train under the direction of Major League scouts before playing two days of games. It's a little taste of what pro ball is all about," explained Santa to players and parents. "Invites will be coming out shortly and there are some players here who will be getting an opportunity to participate." The event, sponsored by MLB, takes place at the Detroit Tigers spring training facility in early August. Players are chosen after an invitation only tryout held in Dayton at the beginning of June. The Dayton tryout will host as many as 250 players for the two session day long workout. Last season at Dayton over 200 college coaches and scouts were in attendance.
The camp seemed to be a huge success for all involved and should become an annual event if the first year response is any indicator.
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As Snow Returns Pitchers and Catchers Report
THS Baseball Season Gets Underway
Tallmadge, Ohio
Head coach Kenny Linn opened camp on his eighth season as Tallmadge pitchers and catchers reported for practice on Monday afternoon. "We are very fortunate to have an outstanding facility (Tallmadge Rec. Center) like this that we can practice in. It really helps us get a jump start on the season regardless of the weather," said Linn as he watched his team go through warmups. The four time Suburban League coach of the year will take the next month to evaluate this years squad following an 18-11 season and a runner-up finish in the league.
Check out the photo album page for more pictures from todays practice.
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Sunday, February 27
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Annual Reverse Raffle a Success
Crowd Enjoys Night to Benefit Softball and Baseball Programs
Kent, Ohio
A crowd of over 250 people gathered at the American Legion Hall in Kent for the Annual Softball/Baseball Reverse Raffle, but only one person in attendance would be the winner at nights end. For over two hours those in the audience watched as 154 numbers were drawn leaving one final ticket, a ticket that belonged to the big winner of the night, assistant softball coach Willie Davis. Actually the big winners were the softball and baseball programs as over $6,000 was raised to support the Blue Devil athletes.
Those in attendance enjoyed a buffet style meal and bid on auction items as part of the nights events. Head softball coach Ed Seeker and baseball head coach Kenny Linn thanked those in attendance for their support and talked about the upcoming season.
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