Tallmadge Blue Devils Baseball: The Pressbox
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Cougar Comeback!
THS Season Ends with Lake Catholic Late Rally
Hudson, Ohio
The Tallmadge Blue Devils seemed to be in complete control of their Regional semi-final matchup against Mentor Lake Catholic leading 4-0 heading to the bottom of the sixth inning. The Cougars however have been there before and weren't about to go quietly their final six outs in Thursday's contest. Lake Catholic used five hits, three walks and a Tallmadge error over the final two innings to win 5-4 with a walk off single in the bottom of the seventh inning.
Senior right hander Tucker Linder was throwing a gem through five innings not allowing a run and striking out eight giving up just two hits and no walks. Then came the sixth inning. A lead off walk on a 3-2 pitch to the nine hole hitter gave the Cougars (19-10) life. Two singles and a Tallmadge error scored two runs and the Devils lead was cut in half 4-2.
An eight pitch, 1-2-3 top of the seventh brought Tallmadge right back onto the field just three outs from an Elite Eight berth. The bottom of the seventh started with a bloop double off the handle just over the first basemans head. A four pitch walk put runners at first and second with no outs. Tallmadge ran their fake bunt play and caught the pinch runner at second in a run down for the first out. Another walk and a wild pitch put runners at second and third. Lead off hitter Zach Frate grounded out to shortstop to make it a 4-3 game. A two out triple to the right field gap tied the game at 4-4 and Trevor Boslett blooped a single to right for the walk off win.
"We talked about getting Tucker out of there but he's a four year starter and a guy who has gotten us some big wins. He was so dominant that we kept thinking a ground ball and we would be out of it," said Kenny Linn.
Tallmadge got the early lead in the fourth inning after Cougar starter Joey Samuele set down the first ten Blue Devils he faced. Matt Shomo reached on an infield single and went to second on a wide throw to first by the third baseman. Linder was hit with the first offering from Samuele to put runners at first and second with one out. A fly out to center field left the Devils needing a clutch two out hit. Cordt Skraba hit a slow roller to the right of the first baseman who flipped to the pitcher covering but Skraba hustled down the line beating the throw with a head first slide. Shomo never hesitated as he rounded third and beat the throw to home for the games first run. Linder moved to third on the play and when Samuele tried to pickoff Skraba at first base, Linder headed for home and was safe when the throw was high and went to the screen. Johnny Linn drove a single up the middle to score Skraba from second.
The Blue Devils picked up a single run in the fifth inning when Zach Cleary singled past the third baseman, stole second and rode home on an RBI double to left center by Danny Blake. The Blue Devils had just five hits including three infield singles.
The Blue Devils ended the season at 20-9 and claimed back to back District titles for the first time in over ten seasons.
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May 22, 2012
Cacique and Kilway Named to ABCA All-Region Team
Brian Kilway (l) and Brayan Cacique (r) were named to the ABCA All-Midwest Region Team.
PAINESVILLE, OHIO -- Lake Erie College had a pair of players named to the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) All-Midwest Region Team announced this week (May 21), with senior second baseman Brayan Cacique (Caracas, Venezuela/John I. Leonard/Lakeland C.C.) and sophomore starting pitcher Brian Kilway (Tallmadge, Ohio/Tallmadge) named to the coaches' all-star squad.
Cacique was named to the First Team, the third postseason all-star team honor he has received. He was also selected to the All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) and Daktronics, Inc. All-Region first teams earlier this month. During the season, Cacique led the Storm in home runs (5), RBI (38), doubles (12), total bases (86), slugging percentage (.544) and on-base percentage (.455) while setting a school single-season record for walks (31). He also was second in batting (.348), hits (55), runs (32), triples (2) and finished third in stolen bases (10).
Kilway, a second-team All-GLIAC pick, was named to the ABCA All-Region Second Team as well. The second-year hurler went 6-1 with a 1.44 ERA in 10 starts, sharing the team lead and tying the school single-season record in wins and setting a new Lake Erie standard for ERA. He tossed four complete games, struck out 45 and held opponents to a .200 average in 62 2/3 innings of work. After suffering a 3-0 loss in his season debut, Kilway won his final six decisions of the season and was unbeaten in his final nine starts.
Lake Erie Places Seven on All-GLIAC Baseball Team
CHILLICOTHE, OHIO – Following the best regular season in school history, and on the eve of its first appearance in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference playoffs, the Lake Erie College baseball team had seven players named to the All-GLIAC Team announced by the league office Tuesday night (May 8).
For the second straight season, the Storm placed two members on the first-team. Seniors OF Matt Toth (Lorain, Ohio/Admiral King) and 2B Brayan Cacique (Caracas, Venezuela/John I. Leonard/Lakeland C.C.) earned the honors this season. They are joined on the all-star team by juniors DH Pat Kilway (Tallmadge, Ohio/Tallmadge) and RHP Adam Beach (Vermilion, Ohio/Vermilion) and sophomore RHP Brian Kilway(Tallmadge, Ohio/Tallmadge), who were second-team selections, and juniors 3B Cody Blood (Conneaut, Ohio/Conneaut) and LHP Doug Fox (Parma, Ohio/Valley Forge), who received honorable mention.
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Post Season Awards Begin
Six Blue Devils Named to All-Suburban League Squad
Medina, Ohio
Suburban League baseball coaches met Sunday evening at Highland High School to vote on All-League selections and Tallmadge is well represented on the 2012 squad. Seniors Matt Shomo and Tucker Linder were named to the first team. Senior Danny Blake and sophomore Chris Gray were named to the 2nd Team. Juniors Cordt Skraba and Zach Cleary both received Honorable Mention. "I'm very proud of our whole team and what they have accomplished so far this season. I think these guys have put together a great year and are very deserving of the recognition they receive," said Kenny Linn.
Senior Matt Shomo...One of the top hitters in the league the past two seasons Shomo picks up his second career All-League selection as he was named to the 2nd team in 2011. Matt leads the team in doubles and is second in RBI's with 26 and has over 50 RBI's in his career. At press time Shomo was batting .422 in his Tallmadge career including .394 this season. A versatile player for the Devils Shomo has played 3B, 1B, 2B, RF, LF and pitcher. On the mound Shomo has a 3-0 record in nine starts and ten appearances.
Senior Tucker Linder...The senior right hander received his fourth All-League selection and second First Team nod. Linder received Honorable Mention in 2009 and 2010. He was named First Team last season. Known more for his pitching, this season Linder has put up impressive numbers at the plate including a team high .471 batting average including 34 RBI's and a .548 on base percentage including 5 HR's. On the mound Linder is 6-2 with a 2.67 ERA in 42 innings of work. He surpassed the 200 career strikeout plateau and has 50 this season.
Senior Danny Blake...A three year starter for the Devils Blake is enjoying his most productive season of his career. Settling in as the everyday lead off hitter Blake leads the team with 22 walks in 28 games, his .527 on base percentage is second on the team. Currently batting .395 Blake has driven in 14 runs and has six doubles on the season. Danny is a true second baseman who has made the move to shortstop the past two seasons. It is the first All-League selection for the senior.
Sophomore Chris Gray...Used primarily as a pinch runner last season Gray won the starting left field job this year and has had a breakout season. Currently batting .405 with 13 RBI's and a .456 on base percentage Gray has proven to be a solid defensive outfielder as well as a guy who can produce at the plate. Moved to the cleanup spot near the end of the season Gray has come through with several two out RBI hits for the Devils. It is the first All-League selection for Gray.
Junior Cordt Skraba...A two year letter winner for the Devils Cordt has been a picture of consistency throughout his career. Currently batting .304 Skraba has shown the ability to drive in runs and is third on the team with 20 RBI's. An outstanding defender in centerfield Cordt brings his speed to the base paths where he his stolen nine bases in ten attempts. He leads the team in sacrifice bunts with seven. It is the first All-League selection for the left hander.
Junior Zach Cleary...After sitting out all of 2011 with a torn ACL Cleary has rebounded with an outstanding 2012 season. The Tallmadge right fielder has been coming on during the second half of the season and is showing no ill effects from the 2011 injury. Currently batting .300 Cleary has been on a tear at the plate since mid-season coming out of an early hole that had his batting average below .100 at the start. Defensively he has been an anchor in right field where he uses his speed to track down would be hits. Cleary is second on the team with six stolen bases in seven attempts. It is the first All-League selection for the junior.
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Sweet Revenge, Sweet Sixteen
Back to Back District Titles as Devils Beat Hoban 4-0
Akron, Ohio
Last season ended in the Regional Semi-Finals for the Blue Devils as they fell at the hands of the Hoban Knights by a final of 7-3. On Friday afternoon at Sisler Field at Summit Lake Park the Blue Devils extracted a bit of revenge on the Knights (18-9) sending them home following a 4-0 win in the District Championship. Tallmadge (20-8) will advance to the Regional Semi-Final at the Ballpark in Hudson Thursday afternoon as they face Mentor Lake Catholic in a 2 pm contest.
"It's a great win and I know some of these guys that were a part of the loss last season wanted another shot at them and they got it," said Head Coach Kenny Linn following the game.
The Blue Devils sent senior Tucker Linder (6-2) to the mound and the right hander did not disappoint as he held Hoban to just four hits while striking out seven in the complete game shutout. Linder is 2-0 in the tournament and has not allowed a run, given up five hits, while striking out 16 in 13 innings of work. "We got a great effort from Sho (Matt Shomo) yesterday and Tuck backed it up today with an outstanding outing. We haven't given up a run in the tournament and that says a lot about those two seniors," praised Linn.
Tallmadge got on the board in the bottom of the first when Linder turned the left fielder around with a two out double to the fence. Sophomore Chris Gray singled up the middle driving in Linder. Junior Cordt Skraba followed with the third straight two out hit of the inning, a double down the left field line that scored Gray. The Circle City Boys added a single run in the second when junior Zach Cleary doubled with one out then moved to third on a long fly out to right field by Danny Blake. As the Hoban starter went to the wind up Cleary got a big lead and bolted for home sliding in safely under the tag for a 3-0 Tallmadge lead. The Blue Devils added an insurance run in the fifth when back to back lead off singles by Shomo and Linder put runners at first and second with no outs. Gray grounded out to first base moving both runners up 90 feet. Cordt Skraba executed a perfect squeeze bunt to score Shomo from third and Linder tried to catch Hoban napping by never stopping as he rounded third on the play. The throw back to the plate got Linder in a bang, bang play at home to end the inning.
Hoban threatened in the top of the seventh with a single and a double putting runners at second and third before Linder got a strikeout and a line out to shortstop Danny Blake to end the game.
The Tallmadge offense banged out 10 hits in the game. Linder was 3 for 3 with a run scored. Cordt Skraba went 2 for 2 with two RBI's. Cleary added a double and a triple in three plate appearances while Shomo, Johnny Linn and Gray all singled. The single by Shomo kept his streak alive as the senior has reached base safely in all 28 games this season.
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Shomo is A-OH-"K"
Senior Strikes Out Career High 10 in 8-0 Win Over Buckeye
Akron, Ohio
Senior Matt Shomo dominated a Medina Buckeye offense, that had scored 36 runs in it's first two tournament games, allowing just three hits while striking out 10 leading Tallmadge to the District Final with an 8-0 complete game performance. "We discussed who should start this game and Matt said he wanted the ball and that he would get us to Friday. That's exactly what he did," said Kenny Linn of his senior pitcher. Tallmadge (19-8) will advance to the District title game for the second year in a row and face familiar foe Akron Hoban (18-8).
The Blue Devils flexed their muscles early against Buckeye (17-10) scoring five runs on three hits and four walks in the first inning. Tallmadge sent 10 players to the plate in the bottom of the first. Chris Gray started the scoring with an RBI single scoring Matt Shomo from second. A fielders choice off the bat of Cordt Skraba scored Tucker Linder who reached via the walk. Johnny Linn drove in a run with a single and came home on an infield single by Zach Cleary. THS picked up another run on the Cleary single when the second baseman mishandled the ball allowing Zach Skraba to score.
Matt Shomo set the tone for the game retiring the first three Bucks he faced in cluding two by strikeout. "I thought Matt came out and was lights out the first inning and really sent a message to the other dugout. When we scored those five in the first he just settled in and was lights out," said Linn. Shomo recored a career high ten punch outs and retired 12 of the last 15 batters he faced.
Tallmadge added two runs in the fourth when Linder led off with a single and scored on a fielders choice. Chris Gray reached on an error and scored on a perfect Zach Skraba squeeze bunt. Johnny Linn doubled home a run in the sixth for the final of 8-0.
Johnny Linn doubled, singled and drove in two runs for Tallmadge. Gray finished with two singles and an RBI. Cordt Skraba scored twice and drove in two runs. Cleary had an RBI single and Linder scored twice on two walks and a single. Kody Edwards had a single and Zach Skraba scored once and drove in a run.
Tallmadge will be the home team at 4:30 pm. this afternoon at Summit Lake Park as they take on the Hoban Knights for the right to advance to the Sweet Sixteen. Hoban and Tallmadge met in the Regional semi-final last year with Hoban winning 7-3 on their way to a State Runner-up finish. Earlier this season Tallmadge defeated Hoban 6-2.
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Suburban League Wrap
Seniors Have Big Day in Final League Game
Fairlawn, Ohio
The five Tallmadge seniors saved their best for last as the Devils defeated Copley 13-3 to wrap up Suburban League play. Tallmadge finished third in the league with a 10-4 record. Highland was the champion with two losses and Green had just three league losses to finish second. "Winning the League is always one of our goals, but it's never our only goal and it's not the most important goal. Winning the league is the product of us getting better as the season goes along. We didn't win it last year, but we won a District title," said Kenny Linn.
The completion of Tuesday's game took better than a week after the original start. It didn't take long for the seniors to put their stamp on the game. Senior Nathan Jackson took over for fellow classmate Matt Shomo and threw one pitch to complete a strikeout that Shomo had started on May 7th. Senior Tucker Linder led off the top of the inning by hitting the second pitch he saw over the left field fence for a solo HR and a 4-0 Tallmadge lead. Johnny Linn doubled home Chris Gray who followed Linder's blast with a single and the lead was 5-0. Jackson (2-2) threw three and a third innings of scoreless relief to pick up the win.
Tallmadge scored a single run in the fifth and put the game away with a seven run sixth inning. Senior Danny Blake had a single and an RBI, Shomo doubled in two runs and Linder had a single and a double with two RBI's in the sixth inning alone. Senior Matt Boyer had a single in the game giving the four senior hitters nine of the teams 15 hits and nine of the 13 runs batted in. Junior Johnny Linn was a perfect 3 for 3 at the plate with two singles and a double driving in three runs. Zach Skraba singled twice, scored twice and drove in a run. Cordt Skraba scored twice reaching on a couple of walks.
Tallmadge will return to tournament action on Thursday afternoon as they play Medina Buckeye at Sisler Field at Summit Lake Park. First pitch for the Division II District semi-final is scheduled for 1:30pm.
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Monday, May 14
Copley Tops Devils
Seniors Honored During Pregame
Tallmadge, Ohio
The Copley Indians had nothing to lose as they came to Dave Young Field and the Indians came away a 5-2 winner over the Devils (17-8, 9-4) thanks to an oustanding pitching performance by senior starter Mike Dugan. The right hander scattered 6 hits and two runs over seven innings for the complete game win. Copley (15-10, 9-4) was eliminated from the state tournament trail in a come from behind late inning rally by Walsh last week and was already out of the Suburban League title chase.
"I don't want to take anything away from Copley because they came in here and pitched it well, hit it well, and played good defense. I just think our guys may be looking toward what we want to do at the end of the week," said Linn. Tallmadge will play Medina Buckeye in the District Semi-Final on Thursday.
Junior Nick Robinson (4-1) got the start for the Blue Devils and was on a strict pitch count so as to be available for spot duty later this week. Copley scored an unearned run in the top of the second when a lead off single came around to score from second on an error through the shortstop. The Indians would score two runs in the third inning on three hits and a walk.
After Copley stretched the lead to 4-0 with a single tally in the 6th the Blue Devils finally broke through against the Indians starter with four straight two out hits. Matt Shomo and Tucker Linder singled and scored when Chris Gray and Cordt Skraba each singled. However, that was all the offense the Devils could muster.
The same two teams will resume a suspended game tomorrow at Copley with Tallmadge leading 3-0 in the bottom of the second inning.
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Five Cardinals Earn All-Conference in Baseball
5/14/2012 12:16:00 PM
WESTERVILLE, OHIO – Five Otterbein University baseball players have earned a spot on the All-Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) team, headlined by the second-straight first team selection for junior catcher Wes Meadows.
Senior Dustin Reuter and sophomore Thomas Linder were chosen to the all-conference second team, while junior David Cydrus and freshman Billy Harkenrider garnered honorable mention.
Meadows (Marion/Ridgedale) has solidified himself as the OAC’s top catcher over the last two seasons, finishing the 2012 campaign ranked among the league’s top five in home runs (7), slugging percentage(.632), RBIs (41), doubles (14), and total bases (84), and eighth with a .368 batting average. He started all 39 games behind the plate, posting a .965 fielding percentage and ranking fourth in the league for runners caught stealing.
Reuter (Reynoldsburg/Reynoldsburg) turned in an impressive senior season, finishing fifth in the conference with seven wins on the mound. The right-hander also ranked fourth in strikeouts (58) and seventh in earned run average (2.86). He tossed 69.1 innings over the course of the season, giving seven complete-game efforts along the way.
Linder(Tallmadge/Tallmadge) enjoyed a breakout season as a sophomore, finishing top-ten in the league for batting average (.367) and on-base percentage (.429). The team’s primary right fielder, Linder strung together a new school record 25-game hitting streak this spring, also good enough to rank as the longest in NCAA Division III this season. In addition, he also held a perfect 1.000 fielding-percentage.
Cydrus, a right-handed pitcher from Circleville (Circleville High School), compiled a 6-2 record on the bump to go along with a 3.38 earned run average. He turned in a team-high 71 innings pitched, striking out 41 batters while walking just 13. His career record currently stands at 15-5.
Harkenrider (Westerville/South) contributed a solid freshman season as the team’s everyday first baseman. He ranked third on the team with a .340 batting average, tallying 23 RBI and ranking fifth in the OAC with 39 runs scored.
Otterbein finished the season at 22-17 overall, 8-10 in conference play.
Senior Dustin Reuter and sophomore Thomas Linder were chosen to the all-conference second team, while junior David Cydrus and freshman Billy Harkenrider garnered honorable mention.
Meadows (Marion/Ridgedale) has solidified himself as the OAC’s top catcher over the last two seasons, finishing the 2012 campaign ranked among the league’s top five in home runs (7), slugging percentage(.632), RBIs (41), doubles (14), and total bases (84), and eighth with a .368 batting average. He started all 39 games behind the plate, posting a .965 fielding percentage and ranking fourth in the league for runners caught stealing.
Reuter (Reynoldsburg/Reynoldsburg) turned in an impressive senior season, finishing fifth in the conference with seven wins on the mound. The right-hander also ranked fourth in strikeouts (58) and seventh in earned run average (2.86). He tossed 69.1 innings over the course of the season, giving seven complete-game efforts along the way.
Linder(Tallmadge/Tallmadge) enjoyed a breakout season as a sophomore, finishing top-ten in the league for batting average (.367) and on-base percentage (.429). The team’s primary right fielder, Linder strung together a new school record 25-game hitting streak this spring, also good enough to rank as the longest in NCAA Division III this season. In addition, he also held a perfect 1.000 fielding-percentage.
Cydrus, a right-handed pitcher from Circleville (Circleville High School), compiled a 6-2 record on the bump to go along with a 3.38 earned run average. He turned in a team-high 71 innings pitched, striking out 41 batters while walking just 13. His career record currently stands at 15-5.
Harkenrider (Westerville/South) contributed a solid freshman season as the team’s everyday first baseman. He ranked third on the team with a .340 batting average, tallying 23 RBI and ranking fifth in the OAC with 39 runs scored.
Otterbein finished the season at 22-17 overall, 8-10 in conference play.
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Case Western Reserve Honors Blue Devil Alum
Matt Keen Receives Honor
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Sunday, May 13
Whatever Happened To ... Pat Conley, Tallmadge designated hitter
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Tallmadge designated hitter Pat Conley hit one of the most dramatic home runs in high school state tournament history.
It was 10 years ago next month when Conley connected off Defiance star Chad Billingsley with two outs in the top of the seventh inning of a scoreless Division II state semifinal at Cooper Stadium in Columbus.
It was one of three hits allowed that day by Billingsley, now with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but it was enough for Tallmadge starter Jason Stephens, who also pitched a three-hitter in a 1-0 victory and went on to get drafted by the New York Yankees.
"We knew about Billingsley and that he was one of the best pitchers in the state," said Conley, who hit two line-drive outs in his previous at-bats against the hard-throwing right-hander. (Billingsley was throwing in the mid-90s that day.) "But, we had Jason and we felt he was the best pitcher in the state. And he was on that day."
Conley said he wore out a VHS tape of the game because he watched it so often during college, but hasn't watched it recently. That doesn't mean he doesn't remember his historic at-bat. Such experiences do not require videotape.
"It was a fastball, almost letter high," he said. "It was the first pitch and I was looking for a fastball. When I hit it I didn't think it would get out. I don't think it ever got more than 20 feet off the ground."
As announcers like to say, the ball got out of the park in a hurry. The Blue Devils went on to win the state title the next day, beating Edison, 6-1.
Conley, 27, played one season of college baseball at Ohio Dominican before transferring to Walsh University. He played three seasons for Walsh, helping the Cavaliers reach the NAIA College World Series his junior year. He graduated with a degree in business administration and now is sales manager for U.S. Illuminations, an energy efficient lighting company in Tallmadge. He and the former Jennifer Mills were married in July 2010.
Last summer was the first time Conley cut ties with most of organized baseball but he still gets a random call from a Roy Hobbs League team.
-- Tim Rogers
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Double Dip in Jackson
THS Stops Jackson and Medina in Saturday Sweep
Massillon, Ohio
The Tallmadge Blue Devils traveled to Jackson Field in Massillon for a double header with host Jackson and Medina. Tallmadge defeated Jackson 5-2 with a two out four run rally in the top of the seventh in game one. The Blue Devils (17-7) finished the day with a 5-3 win over Medina (7-17) in game two.
"That's a pretty good day. Anytime you can beat two very good D1 programs in the same day you have to feel good about that," said Head Coach Kenny Linn.
Tallmadge (16-7) handed Jackson (17-5) their first non-league loss of the season by putting four runs on the board against the Polar Bears closer in the top of the seventh. With the Devils down to their last out Matt Shomo hit a ground ball that the second baseman threw wide of the bag at first. Tucker Linder was hit by the first pitch offered and the Devils had a runner in scoring position. Sophomore Chris Gray straightened out a fast ball sending it to left field scoring Shomo to tie the game. Linder and Gray moved to third and second on the throw. Cordt Skraba drew a four pitch walk to load the bases. Junior Zach Skraba took a 2-2 curve ball the opposite way to the fence in right centerfield to clear the bases with a three run double. Zach Cleary (2-1) who forced a double play ball from the only batter he faced in the sixth worked a 1-2-3 bottom of the seventh for the win.
Tallmadge got on the board in the top of the first against Medina in game two when Chris Gray tripled to right center scoring Danny blake who opened the game with a single. Medina took a 3-1 lead with three runs in the bottom of the second off THS starter Nathan Jackson. Tallmadge would tie the game in the top of the third taking advantage of two Medina infield errors. Cordt Skraba drove in the first run with a sacrifice fly to center field scoring Shomo who had reached on and error by the shortstop. Junior Scott Noel singled to left sending Tucker Linder to the plate who had singled earlier in the inning. Tallmadge would break the 3-3 tie with two runs in the top of the fifth.
Chris Gray doubled with one out and advanced to third on a wild pitch. Cordt Skraba followed with a one out walk. With a hit and run play called, Skraba bolted to second on the pitch while batter Scott Noel popped up a foul ball in front of the first base dugout. The Medina pitcher, catcher and firstbaseman surrounded the ball as Skraba turned and raced back to first. Following the catch by the firstbaseman the Bee's attempted to double up Skraba at first. Seeing that no one was covering homeplate following the catch the speedy Gray raced home from third uncontested for the go ahead run of the game. A two out walk by Matt Boyer pushed Skraba into scoring position where freshman John Rensel singled him home for an added insurance run.
Scott Noel (3-0) worked three scoreless innings in relief for the win and Nick Robinson picked up a save working a scoreless seventh.
Tallmadge will host Copley on Monday afternoon at Dave Young Field and the Blue Devils will honor their seniors prior to the 4:30 start. The Blue Devils will travel to Copley on Tuesday to finish an earlier contest halted by weather with Tallmadge leading 3-0 in the second inning. Tallmadge will play the District Semi-final at Summit Lake Park's Sisler Field vs Buckeye on Thursday at 1:30 pm. The other semi-final will feature Hoban against St. Vincent St. Mary's with the two winners meeting Friday at 4:30 pm.
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Dead End Street
Good Pitching, Hitting Bring End Of Road for Streetsboro
Tallmadge, Ohio
The Tallmadge Blue Devils needed just six innings to end the Sectional title hopes of visiting Streetsboro (9-15) at Dave Young Field on Friday as Tallmadge (15-7) used the one hit pitching effort of senior Tucker Linder (5-2) and a 12 hit offense to end it early for the Rockets 10-0.
"They chose to play us. They had a chance to pick their spot anywhere on the bracket and they chose to play us, the number one seed. I think that motivated our guys a little bit," said coach Kenny Linn following the win.
Tallmadge got to Rocket senior starter Ben Gency (4-6) early and often scoring two runs in the first inning and blowing the game open with a six run third. The Circle City Boys would end the game with single tallies in the fifth and sixth innings.
Senior Matt Shomo went 2 for 4 raising his team high batting average to .465 while driving in three runs. All nine starters scored a run in the game as Tallmadge got offensive contributions from everyone including freshman John Rensel who picked up his first varsity hit and RBI in the bottom of the sixth. Zach Skraba (.263) and Zach Cleary (.286) each had a single and a double in the contest. Chris Gray (.386) and Tucker Linder (.449) each went 2 for 3 with two singles. Seniors Danny Blake and Matt Boyer each had an RBI in the game. Kody Edwards saw 27 pitches in four at bats working four walks out of four 3-2 counts.
While the offense was busy lighting up the scoreboard Linder was busy shutting down the Rocket bats. Facing just two batters over the minimum the senior righty put together his best performance of the season striking out nine and not allowing a runner to reach second base. Only one out was recorded in the outfield and Linder did not allow a walk. The strikeout performance brought his career mark to 202. "That's what you have to have out of your ace come tournament time. I think he keeps getting stronger every outing," said Linn.
Tallmadge will face the winner of CVCA and Buckeye who also played on Friday night. The District matchup will take place on Thursday at Summit Lake Field.
THS will play a double header on Saturday taking on host Jackson at 1pm and Medina at 4pm. with both games at Jackson Field in Massillon.
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Same Game Different Day
Weather Halts Play at Copley, Game Resumes Tuesday
Copley,Ohio
The matchup between Copley and the Blue Devils was halted in the bottom of the second inning due to inclement weather with Tallmadge holding a 3-0 advantage. The contest will be picked up where it was stopped on Tuesday at 4:30pm. Tallmadge scored three runs in the top of the second off Copley starter Lou Gigliotti with Danny Blake delivering the big blow with an opposite field two run single.
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Professional Photographer Jeff Harwell Donates Pics
Professional photographer Jeff Harwell has once again this season donated some of his pictures for the site and we are grateful. You can view Jeff's work from the Ignatius game and purchase his photo's online at http://harwellphoto.com/.
Thank's Jeff!
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Devils Throttle Wildcats
THS Stops St. Ignatius Win Streak With 16-2 Victory
Tallmadge, Ohio
Coming off a two game sweep at the hands of league foe Highland on Tuesday and Wednesday head coach Kenny Linn wasn't sure what to expect when his team faced Division I powerhouse Cleveland St. Ignatius on Thursday at Dave Young Field. "I was really interested to see how these guys were going to come out after two tough losses the last two days. They really showed me a lot today. We beat a really good team and a really good program," said Linn.
The Blue Devils got another quality start from junior Nick Robinson who pitched a five inning complete game three hitter. Robinson struck out four in the contest and improved to 4-0 on the season. "I really like what Nick has brought to our rotation. He pounds the strike zone and lets us play defense behind him. Going into the tournament he will be a guy we won't be afraid to go to, he has proven he can get the job done."
The Wildcats scored a single run in the top of the first on two singles and eventually scored on a double steal attempt. Tallmadge would score four runs in the bottom of the first. Tucker Linder doubled just inside the third base bag with the bases loaded to score two runs. Matt Boyer drove in a run with a two out infield single and the Devils led 4-1 after one inning. Robinson would settle in retiring nine straight batters while the Devils offense took care of business.
Tallmadge scored seven runs on four hits to put the game away in the second inning. Linder, Matt Shomo, Robinson, Boyer and Zach Cleary all drove a run home. Kody Edwards added a two run single to the inning as well. Cordt Skraba added a two RBI triple in the fourth and scored the final run of the game when Nathan Jackson grounded out the opposite way for an RBI.
Tallmadge will travel to Copley on Monday to play the Indians in a league contest. The game was scheduled for Tuesday but was moved to accomodate tournament play for both teams later in the week.
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Thursday, May 3
Ossola Highlights Four Spartan Selections on All-UAA Baseball Team
Brett Ossola (photo by Lynne Browske)
Complete 2012 All-UAA Baseball Team
PITTSFORD, N.Y. – Four student-athletes from the Case Western Reserve University baseball team have been named 2012 All-University Athletic Association, announced the league office on Thursday. Senior first baseman Brett Ossola (Potomac, Md./Bullis School) highlighted the selections as a first-team honoree.
In addition to Ossola, the Spartans had three second-team honorees in junior shortstop Matt Keen (Tallmadge, Ohio/Tallmadge), junior pitcherJamie Hora (Twinsburg, Ohio/Twinsburg) and junior centerfielder Paul Pakan (Tallmadge, Ohio/Tallmadge).
Ossola, now a three-time All-UAA selection, earned second-team honors in both 2010 and 2011. This season, he tied for the team lead with a .329 batting average while totaling two homeruns, 26 runs batted-in, eight doubles, 14 walks and four stolen bases. Having started all 92 games during the past two seasons, Ossola is now batting .333 in 132 career games with six homers, 110 RBI and 32 doubles.
Keen also becomes a three-time All-UAA pick after earning first-team status during his first two seasons. In 2012, he batted .292 with team-bests of 38 runs scored and nine stolen bases. Also a UAA Championship All-Tournament Team pick, Keen hit a pair of homers with three triples, nine doubles and 24 RBI. He has started all 134 games during the past three seasons with a career .357 average, 38 doubles, nine triples, 10 homers, 102 RBI and 33 steals. The junior ranks second in school history in both triples and runs as well as third in hits. In addition to being a three-time All-UAA pick, he is a three-time UAA Championship All-Tournament Team selection and was the conference's Rookie of the Year in 2010.
Hora, an American Baseball Coaches Association All-Mideast Region selection last year, tied the school record with eight wins (8-0 overall) this season. Ranking second on the team with 62.2 innings pitched, the left-hander posted a career-best 4.16 earned run average and 51 strikeouts. In 38 career appearances, he is 18-5 with a 4.47 ERA, 10 complete games, two saves and 170 strikeouts in 177.1 innings of work.
Pakan, playing his first season as a Spartan after transferring from George Washington University (D.C.), batted .325 with a team-best seven homeruns. He also led the squad with 55 hits while totaling 29 RBI, 10 doubles, 34 runs, 14 walks and six stolen bases.
The Spartans finished the regular season at 27-16-1 overall with the second-highest win total in program history.
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Sign of the Times
New Sign Honors Long Time Coach
Tallmadge, Ohio
A new sign honoring longtime Tallmadge baseball coach Dave Young was unveiled on Wednesday. The 5'x9' sign was updated replacing the original sign that was installed in 1993. The new sign shows the head coach in front of the 1962 THS squad. The front of the sign was printed by Power Media and designed by a current member of the baseball team. The side facing the field was done by Kevin and Sue Gassaway of Tallmadge.
"It really dresses up the field and I think it was time for the old sign to be retired," said head baseball coach Kenny Linn.
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LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY – Sophomore Thomas Linder delivered the game-winning RBI in the 10th inning at Transylvania Wednesday afternoon, keeping his national-best hitting streak alive at 25 games as Otterbein escaped with a 10-9 victory.
The win marks the second extra-inning victory in a row for Otterbein after defeating Capital in 12 innings during game two of a doubleheader Sunday afternoon.
The Cardinals, now 20-17 on the season, grabbed an early 2-0 lead after junior Wes Meadows hit his sixth home run of the season over the left-field fence in the first inning.
Transylvania responded and took a 4-3 lead into the fourth inning, but an RBI-double from Meadows and sacrifice fly from Linder put Otterbein back on top, 5-4.
The Pioneers rebounded again, using a four-run sixth inning to open a 9-6 advantage with three frames to go.
Otterbein refused to go away, getting an RBI from Zach Thompson followed by a two-RBI single from Caleb Woodson to draw even at 9-9 in the seventh. The Cards later had runners on first and second base with just one out in the inning, but an inning-ending double play kept the game even.
Jon Cheyney came on to pitch the next two scoreless innings of relief for Otterbein, and the game headed for extras after Matt Frey held Transy in the bottom of the ninth.
Linder, hitless through nine innings, came to bat with two outs and a runner on second base in the top of the 10th. The Tallmadge native delivered with a single to right-center field, bringing home Billy Harkenrider to vault the Cards ahead for good.
Frey held Transy in its final at-bat to earn the victory, improving to 3-0 this season on the mound.
Meadows turned in perhaps his best hitting game of the season, going 4 for 5 at the dish with five runs batted in. Woodson went 2 for 3 with three runs scored and a pair of RBI.
Otterbein stays on the road to finish out the week, traveling to Baldwin-Wallace Saturday afternoon for doubleheader action. Starting time in game one is set for 1 p.m.
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Hornets Long Gone
Highland Goes Deep, Drops Devils to Second Place With Sweep
Tallmadge, Ohio
The Highland Hornets took over sole possession of first place in the Suburban League with a 6-2 win over Tallmadge on Wednesday afternoon at Dave Young Field. The Hornets (19-5, 10-2) used the long ball and good pitching to complete the two game sweep of the Devils (13-7, 9-3). "They're a good team and have some real depth. You can see why they've won 19 games. They do a lot of things right and really keep the pressure on you," said Coach Linn after the loss. "We have to concentrate on finishing the regular season strong and make sure we are ready for the post season."
The Blue Devils sent Tucker Linder (4-2) to the mound and the Hornets scored two runs to open the game with an opposite field two run HR by Ricky Esker in the top of the first. Tallmadge would answer with a single run in the bottom of the inning when Linder singled to right field scoring Danny Blake who had singled to start the inning. That was as close as the Blue Devils would get as Highland extended their lead to 4-1 with a two run HR to dead center off the bat of Miami of Ohio recruit Chad Sedio in the third inning.
Highland would add single runs in the fourth and fifth for a 6-1 lead. Tallmadge picked up a single run in the bottom of the seventh when Tucker Linder homered for the third game in a row. The solo HR was the fourth of the season for Linder.
Tallmadge had eight hits in the game. Matt Shomo continued his impressive season with two doubles giving him a team high 12 on the year. Shomo extended his streak of reaching safely to 20 games. Linder had a single and a HR with 2 RBI's giving him 28 on the year. Danny Blake,
Kody Edwards, Chris Gray and Zach Cleary all had a single in the game for THS.
Tallmadge will play host to St. Ignatius at Dave Young Field Thursday at 4:30pm.
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Round One to Hornets
Highland Wins Game One in Eight Innings 7-6
Medina, Ohio
The Highland Hornets (18-5) earned a hard fought extra inning 7-6 win over Tallmadge (13-6) on Tuesday night and have now drawn even with the Blue Devils atop the league standings at 9-2. "It was a well played game by both teams. Both teams had opportunities and both sides came up with big hits, big plays and good pitching performances," said Kenny Linn. "We need to put it behind us and come out and get the win tomorrow so we get our one game lead back."
Highland scored first taking advantage of a lead off walk in the bottom of the first inning and scoring on a sacrifice fly. The Blue Devils would tie then take the lead in the top of the fourth. Tucker Linder hit his third HR of the season over the 350ft sign in left center field. The solo shot tied the game at 1-1. Chris Gray followed with a triple to right center and rode home on a Kody Edwards sacrifice fly to center field.
The Hornets would regain the lead in the bottom of the fourth scoring three runs on four hits. Highland would add a single tally in the fifth for a 5-2 advantage.
Cordt Skraba led off the sixth inning with a double and moved to third on a groundout. Linder singled to left scoring Skraba. Gray was hit by a pitch and both runners moved into scoring position after a balk was called on the Hornet pitcher. Edwards picked up his second RBI of the day with a single to right. Zach Skraba laid down a perfect squeeze bunt scoring Gray from third. Danny Blake ripped a two out single up the middle to give Tallmadge the lead at 6-5 but Zach Skraba was gunned down at the plate trying to score from second on the play.
The Hornets would tie the game in the bottom of the sixth with a bloop single just out of the reach of second baseman Danny Blake.
Tallmadge would put runners in scoring position in both the seventh and eighth inning but couldn't push a run across the plate. Highland would win the game on a two out bases loaded swinging bunt toward third that scored the game winner on a 3-2 count.
Danny Blake was 2 for 4 with two singles and an RBI. Matt Shomo was 2 for 4 with two singles. Tucker Linder had a solo HR, two singles and two RBI's. Chris Gray had a double, triple and two runs scored. Kody Edwards had a single and two RBI's. Zach Skraba and Zach Cleary each added a single to the 13 hit offense for THS.
The same two teams will battle for the right to be all alone in first today at Dave Young Field.
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News and Notes
The Tallmadge Blue Devils received the #1 seed at the Akron Division II District meeting on Sunday. St.Vincent-St. Mary's was picked #2, Hoban #3 and CVCA was picked #4. The Blue Devis will face Streetsboro on Friday May 11th. "It's always an honor to get the number one seed, but it definitely puts a bullseye on our guys," said coach Linn.
Senior Matt Shomo has reached safely in all 18 games this season for the Devils. Shomo is batting .458 on the season and has hit safely in 15 of 18 games. Shomo has an on base percentage of .529 for the year. Fellow senior Danny Blake is leading the team with a .464 batting average and has reached safely in all but two games. Blake's .577 on base percentage is the top mark on the squad.
Tallmadge High School honored the Distinguished Scholars for 2012 with a breakfast hosted at Guy's Party Center. The baseball team was represented by senior Matt Shomo and junior Cordt Skraba. Congratulations to these young men for excelling in the classroom and on the diamond.
Junior Nick Robinson has been impressive on the mound. Robinson has the best ERA on the team at 0.66 through 21 innings of work. The right hander is 3-0 in five appearances.
Freshmen pinch running specialists Conner McVey and Will Woods have each scored the first run of their varsity careers. Woods scored his first in the recent win at Revere.
Seniors Tucker Linder (.393) and Matt Shomo (.458) are enjoying a very productive senior year at the plate. Linder has 24 RBI's, three triples and two HR's while Shomo leads the team in doubles (10) and has 20 RBI's and a HR.
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Nations Longest DIII Hitting Streak Belongs to Blue Devil Alum
Bexley, Ohio
Tallmadge Blue Devil grad Thomas Linder extended his nations best hitting streak to 24 games on Sunday with a hit in each game of an OAC double header split at Capital's Clowson Field. Linder has reached safely in 24 of 26 games played and is currently batting .391 which ranks 5th among Ohio Athletic Conference leaders. The Cardinal's travel to Lexington, Kentucky on Tuesday for a non-conference matchup with Transylvania University.
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Oops, They Did It Again!
Devils Win in Comeback Over City Series Leader Ellet
Tallmadge, Ohio
For the second time in three games the Blue Devils (13-5, 9-1) used a late game rally to put a contest in the win column. The victim this time was the City Series leader Akron Ellet (15-3) as Tallmadge scored 7 runs in the final four innings to overcome a 10-5 deficit enroute to a 12-11 win. "It's not easy on the coach when that happens but it does show me a lot about this team. They never seem to panic and they stick together to get the job done which is great," said Kenny Linn. The win over a Division I opponent may have locked up a number one seed for the upcoming District draw on Sunday.
With a showdown vs. second place Suburban League opponent Medina Highland looming on the horizon next week it was pitching staff by committee for the Ellet contest. Senior Nathan Jackson got the start for Tallmadge followed by Zach Cleary and Nick Robinson.
Both teams scored a single run in the first inning. Matt Shomo (.458) drove in the first of three runs on the day with a groundout that scored Danny Blake from third. Blake was hit by a pitch to lead off the inning. Ellet would take a short lived 3-1 lead in the top of the second. Tallmadge would answer with three runs in the bottom of the inning with the key blow being a two run RBI double to left by Kody Edwards (.275). Each team scored a single run in the third and it was 5-4 THS heading to the fourth inning.
Ellet exploded for six runs on five hits in the top of the fourth to take a 10-5 advantage. The Devils would answer with three runs in the bottom of the fourth thanks to a two run HR off the bat of Tucker Linder (.393) and a sacrifice fly from Nick Robinson that scored Chris Gray (.356) who followed Linder with a double to left.
Tallmadge would regain the lead in the bottom of the fifth. Zach Cleary hit a one out triple to the gap in left center and came home when Blake grounded out to second. Cordt Skraba (.302) drew a two out walk and came all the way home tying the game at 10-10 on a Shomo double down the left field line. Linder would give Tallmadge the lead with a two out RBI single to right that scored Shomo. Ellet would tie the game in the sixth with an infield single and a throwing error.
Danny Blake (.464) led off the bottom of the seventh with a single to left and moved to second on a ground out by Cordt Skraba. Matt Shomo battled through a six pitch at bat before delivering the walk off game winning single to left field. "It was an ugly win with ugly plays on both sides, but every time they put runs on the board we answered. These games are only fun if you win them, so I guess this was a fun game. I'm proud of our guys," said Linn.
Junior Nick Robinson (3-0) picked up the win in relief with a solid four innings of work. The right hander allowed just one earned run over the final four innings.
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Thursday, April 26
Mother Nature Alters Upcoming Schedule
Head Coach Kenny Linn has announced the following changes to the Blue Devils upcoming schedule due to projected inclement weather over the weekend. The Saturday contest vs. Jackson has been cancelled and Tallmadge will host City Series leader Ellet at Dave Young Field on Friday at 4:30pm.
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Revere Rocked in Richfield
Linder K's 11 in THS Suburban League Sweep
Richfield, Ohio
The Blue Devils (12-5, 8-1) took the show on the road looking for a sweep of league foe Revere (4-14, 3-7) and downed the Minutemen by a final of 8-1. Tallmadge used good pitching, timely hitting and error free defense to remain all alone at the top of the Suburban League standings. "We were facing one of the best pitchers in the league in (Nathan) Allen and I thought our guys had a great approach all day. We hit the ball hard and made them make plays," said Head Coach Kennt Linn following the win. Allen who has signed a National Letter of Intent to play for the Akron Zips next season had eight strikeouts in the game.
The Devils had just six hits in the game but took advantage of four Revere errors to score five times in the sixth inning breaking open a 3-1 ballgame. Revere put together three straight two out singles in the top of the third to plate the first run of the game. Tallmadge would answer in the bottom half of the inning when Matt Shomo ripped a two out single to left scoring Zach Cleary who led off the inning with a walk.
The Circle City Boys would add two more runs in the bottom of the fifth. Cleary who walked for the second time scored on a Cordt Skraba infield single and Danny Blake walked home on a Shomo sacrifice fly to center field. Tallmadge had just two hits in the five run sixth but laid down two bunts that were misplayed by the Revere pitcher. Mix in a walk, two more errors and an RBI single from Cordt Skraba and the Devils had more than enough runs for starter Tucker Linder.
Linder improved to 4-1 on the season with his first complete game striking out 11 and walking two. "He is getting better every outing and still is not at full strength. He had the best curveball I have seen out of him maybe ever today. He spotted the ball well and pounded the strike zone," explained pitching coach Ben Shepherd.
Senior Matt Shomo went 2 for 3 and raised his batting average to .444 on the season. Shomo also made two outstanding plays at third base defensively. Cordt Skraba (.322) had two singles, two stolen bases and two RBI's in the game. Chris Gray (.357) and Danny Blake (.462) each had a single for the THS offense. Right fielder Zach Cleary reached base three times, stole two bases and scored three runs.
With the win Tallmadge maintains a one game lead over Highland in the league standings. The two teams will meet next Tuesday and Wednesday. Green and Copley are two games back tied for third.
JV NOTES:The Blue Devils swept Revere in run rule shortened games 16-5 and 11-0. The JV's got mound wins from Jason Beaumont and John Rensel. Nick Carey swatted his first career HR at Revere on Tuesday.
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The Comeback Kids!
Devils Overcome 7-1 Deficit for 9-8 Win
Tallmadge, Ohio
The Blue Devils (11-5, 8-1) trailed visiting Revere 7-1 in the top of the fourth inning but rebounded for a 9-8 win over the Minutemen (4-13, 3-6). THS used a seven run 5th inning and outstanding bullpen work from Scott Noel to stay atop the Suburban League standings. "We couldn't get anything going in the first four innings. We left a lot of guys on base and when we had chances to have big innings we just didn't produce," said head coach Kenny Linn. Tallmadge stranded 8 base runners through the first four innings. In the mean time Revere was very efficient on two strike hits and built a 7-1 lead on the back of two Tallmadge errors and a three run HR off the bat of freshman Sam Sustersic. "A couple of errors, a couple of walks and a couple of hits and you look at the scoreboard and we're down six runs."
Chris Gray opened the seven run fifth inning with a bunt single, Zach Skraba followed with a single and Scott Noel loaded the bases when he was hit by a pitch. Johnny Linn drove in Gray with an RBI sacrifice fly to right to make it 7-3. Noel got picked off at first for the second out of the inning. Zach Cleary hit a chopper over the mound for an infield single that scored Skraba from third. Pinch hitter Kody Edwards reached on a throwing error by the third baseman. Danny Blake loaded the bases with a four pitch walk that brought the night to a close for Revere starting pitcher Justin Bergh. Shomo straightened out a curve ball sending it over the shortstops head for a two out, two run single. Tucker Linder followed with a scorching line drive to center that skipped past the center fielder for a two run triple. Linder would trot home on a fielding error by the shortstop on a Gray groundball. The Devils entered the inning down five runs and left with a two run lead.
Noel in relief of starter Matt Shomo would close the door on Revere but not without some help from his defense as well as reliever Nathan Jackson. Revere trailing 9-7 would threaten in the sixth with a two out single followed by a double to the fence in left center field. Chris Gray tracked down the double at the fence, hit shortstop cut off man Tucker Linder who turned and fired a chest high strike to catcher Zach Skraba who waited to make the tag on the runner who was out by six steps to end the inning.
Revere would threaten again in the top of the seventh after loading the bases with one out. Nathan Jackson came on in relief of Noel and got the save on one pitch. A sacrifice fly off the bat of Matt Gutierrez plated one run. On the catch Cordt Skraba hit infield cut off man Matt Shomo who threw to third just behind the runner tagging from second. Third baseman Johnny Linn saw the runner from first trying to go to second and threw a strike to Linder who applied the tag to end the game.
"We executed a double play, and got three outs by executing three perfect cut off plays. That's why we work so hard on the little things because they might win you a game like they did today," said Linn.
Tallmadge ended the game with eleven hits but left 12 runners on base in six innings. Matt Shomo went 2 for 3 with a single double and 2 RBI's. Linder went 2 for 4 with a double, triple and 2 RBI's. Zach Cleary had a single, double, walk and reached base four times. Chris Gray, Cordt Skraba and Zach Skraba each singled. Johnny Linn had a single, scored twice and drove in a run with a sacrifice fly.
The same two teams will square off tomorrow at Revere with first pitch at 4:30pm.
NOTE: With a Copley 15-7 win over Highland on Tuesday Tallmadge 8-1 has a one game lead over the Hornets 7-2 and Indians 7-2 going into Wednesday's contest at Revere.
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Devils Whack Wayne
Robinson Spins Two Hitter in 7-0 Win
Kent, Ohio
The Tallmadge Blue Devils (10-5, 7-1) used a nine hit offense, error free defense and the two hit pitching of junior Nick Robinson (2-0) to defeat the visiting Wayne Warriors (2-13) 7-0 as part of the Cancer Awareness Classic at Kent State University. In a game that was played in constant drizzle and temperatures close to freezing Tallmadge did a lot of things right according to their coach. "It's unfortunate that we couldn't have great weather for this event and get all the gmes in but we can't control the weather. We can control our effort and today was one of our better games this season. We did a lot of things right today," said Linn.
Tallmadge scored what turned out to be the only run they would need in the bottom of the first inning. Danny Blake picked up his 8th straight hit in the last three games with a one out infield single. Matt Shomo pushed him to second with a single to left and Tucker Linder loaded the bases drawing a walk after a ten pitch at bat. Blake was forced out at home and with two outs it looked like the Warriors might wiggle off the hook without giving up a run. However, Shomo and third base coach Kenny Linn weren't about to let that happen. "I told Matt that their catcher was being lazy on the throw back to the pitcher and that I thought he could steal home on the throw back. I wasn't totally clear apparently, because he noticed with the bases loaded the pitcher was using the wind up and he bolted for home on first movement." Shomo pulled off the theft without a play at the plate giving Tallmadge a 1-0 lead.
Tallmadge added a single run in the fourth on a Matt Boyer sacrifice fly that scored Chris Gray from third. Gray led off the inning with a bunt single. The Circle City Boys scored three runs in the fifth after a one hour ran delay. Danny Blake singled to start the inning and Matt Shomo followed with his second single of the day. Tucker Linder tripled to the gap in right center driving in both runners. Linder would score on a wild pitch for a 5-0 THS lead.
Tallmadge would add two insurance runs in the sixth with an RBI single by pinch hitter Scott Noel and an RBI single by Linder. The seven runs were more than enough for the win thanks to another outstanding pitching effort by Robinson. "His last two outings have been great and we need to look at using him as a possible mid-week guy. He has been lights out," praised pitching coach Ben Shepherd. Robinson struck out nine Warriors and allowed just two walks. Robinson has a miniscule 0.40 ERA in 4 games covering 17 innings.
Tallmadge remains tied atop the Suburban League standings at 7-1 and will return to league play Tuesday when they host Revere at Dave Young Field, game time 4:30pm.
Saturday, April 21
Schedule Change at Cancer Awareness Classic
10am game vs St. Ed's is Cancelled
12:30 vs Huber Heights Wayne is at KSU
3:45 vs Mentor at Hudson is Added
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Sweet Suburban Sweep
Danny Blake Goes 7 for 7 in Two Games vs Knights
Macedonia, Ohio
The Blue Devils (9-5, 7-1) traveled to Macedonia on Wednesday for game two of a Suburban League matchup with the Knights of Nordonia. The task at hand for Tallmadge was to secure a win and sweep the Knights (6-10, 2-6) after winning 7-6 on Tuesday. The task at hand for the Knights was to find a way to get Danny Blake out. Tallmadge was successful at their task winning 12-6 while Nordonia had no answer for Blake who went 4 for 4 with a walk. In the two game series Blake was 7 for 7 with two doubles and two walks. The senior shortstop is batting .512 with an on base percentage of .615 and a team high eleven walks. "Danny is a perfect example of a guy who is making the most of his senior season. What people don't understand is how hard Danny has worked during the off season. All those hours of lifting and swinging the bat are paying off, " said Kenny Linn following the sweep.
Tallmadge hosted Nordonia at Dave Young field on Tuesday for the first regular season meeting between the two schools. Tallmadge jumped out 3-0 in the bottom of the second inning when Matt Boyer grounded out the other way to drive in Chris Gray from third. Johnny Linn singled home Zach Skraba who had reached on an error and Cordt Skraba grounded out to first scoring Kody Edwards who had reached with a bunt single. Nordonia would string together four hits in the top of the third to take the lead 4-3. Tallmadge would answer with a three run home half of the inning highlighted by a Matt Boyer bases loaded double that scored three runs. Nordonia would battle back with two unearned runs in the top of the sixth to tie the game at 6-6. Cordt Skraba reached on an error by the Knights first baseman to lead off the bottom of the sixth and moved to second on an eight pitch at bat by Blake that produced a walk. Matt Shomo picked up the go ahead run with a ground ball under the glove of the shortstop for a 7-6 Tallmadge lead. Zach Cleary (1-1) on in relief of starter Matt Shomo would pick up the win working the final four outs of the game.
Blake went 3 for 3 with two singles and a double. Shomo was 2 for 3 with two singles. Johnny Linn added two singles while Boyer, Zach Skraba and Tucker Linder each had a double. Kody Edwards and Chris Gray each contributed a single to the 12 hit THS offense.
In game two at Nordonia Tucker Linder (3-1) picked up his third win of the season and 20th of his career going five innings allowing 2 runs on five hits and striking out six. Blake completed his perfect run at the plate going 4 for 4 with a walk.
Tallmadge scored three runs in the top of the first when Blake and Shomo reached with back to back singles and road home on a Linder triple to dead center. Linder scored on the play when the throw from the outfield eluded the cut off man for the Knights and Tallmadge led 3-0. THS added two runs in the top of the third on an RBI single by Kody Edwards and a sacrifice fly by Johnny Linn. Nordonia would answer in the home half of the inning with two runs on two hits.
The Blue Devils would put the game away in the fourth inning scoring seven runs on four hits and five walks as Nordonia used three pitchers in the inning to try and stop the bleeding.
Besides the 4 for 4 effort of Blake, Matt Shomo went 2 for 3 with a single and a RBI double. Zach Skraba singled and scored twice, Boyer picked up an RBI with a single and one of Blakes singles was good for two RBI's.
Tallmadge will travel to Kent as the Devils participate in the annual Cancer Awareness Classic at KSU. Tallmadge is scheduled to face Lakewood St. Ed's at 10 am followed by Huber Hts. Wayne at 12:30. Both games are to be played at Schoonover Stadium.
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Tallmadge Duo Lead Case Western Reserve
Linder Owns 20 Game Hitting Streak at Otterbein
Juniors Matt Keen and Paul Pakan of Tallmadge are a big reason that the Spartans of Case Western Reserve are having another outstanding season in NCAA Division III baseball. The Spartans made an appearance in the Division III regional in 2011 and are hoping for an at large bid this season. Matt Keen is playing shortstop and the two year letterwinner is producing big numbers once again in his third season. Keen is batting .299 with seven doubles, two HR's and 19 RBI's. When you add in a .373 on base percentage and six stolen bases it is easy to see why Keen leads the team with 31 runs scored.
Pakan spent two seasons at George Washington University before transferring to Case this season. Pakan has been a starter in center field for the Spartans and has put up big numbers at the plate including a team high 5 HR's. The right handed hitter is batting .351 with 22 RBI's and 28 runs scored.
Otterbein University sophomore Thomas Linder extended his hitting streak to 20 consecutive games with a hit in each game Tuesday against the defending NCAA Division III national champion Marietta Pioneers. The Pioneers are currently 24-4 and ranked #1 in Division III. Linder is the starting right fielder for the Cardinals who are 16-16 on the season. Linder ranks fourth in hitting among Ohio Athletic Conference leaders with a .432 average in league play and is batting .412 overall with 14 RBI's and an on base percentage of .481.
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Jackson KO's Knights
Senior Pitcher Stops Hoban 6-2
Kent, Ohio
There is just something about Schoonover Stadium that is to the liking of senior right handed pitcher Nathan Jackson. Last season Jackson picked up the first win of his varsity career at the home of the Golden Flashes and Friday afternoon he made it 2-0 at Olga Mural Field with a dominating 6-2 win over the Hoban Knights (8-3). Tallmadge (7-5, 5-1) used three extra base hits to defeat Hoban as both teams ended the night with seven hits. "We got some clutch hits that made the difference in this one. Nate was outstanding after he settled in and we played good defense. This win is just a glimpse of what this team could be when they put it all together," said Kenny Linn after the victory.
Hoban got on the board in the top of the first with three hits in their first four at bats scoring twice before Jackson closed the inning by striking out Adam Gray. Jackson would allow just three hits over the next five innings and no Hoban runner reached third base after the first inning. "As the game went on Nathan really settled in and his stuff just got better and better. He worked outside and his splitter and curveball came to him after the first inning. He got ahead in the count and forced a lot of lazy fly balls and ground outs, " praised pitching coach Ben Shepherd.
Tallmadge would tie the game in the home half of the first. Cordt Skraba singled to lead off and Tucker Linder worked a two out walk. Chris Gray was moved to the five hole for the first time this season and came up with a big two out two RBI triple to knot the score at 2-2.
The Blue Devils took the lead for good with a two run second inning. Johnny Linn and Cordt Skraba drew two out walks to keep the inning alive for Danny Blake who tripled to dead center for two RBI's. Four of the Tallmadge six runs scored after there were two outs in the inning. THS would add single runs in the fourth and fifth innings to seal the win.
"I'm proud of the way these guys came out today. I challenged them in our pregame and they responded. This is a nice win today," said Linn.
The Blue Devils will return to action on Tuesday as they return to league play when they host Nordonia for the first time at Dave Young Field.
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Bulldogs Bite Back!
Green Earns Split With 5-2 Win
Tallmadge, Ohio
The Green Bulldogs had a long post game discussion Tuesday night after a home loss to Tallmadge. The Bulldogs (4-6, 3-3) could not afford to fall four games back in the Suburban League race with a loss at Dave Young Field on Thursday night and they accomplished what they needed to do with a 5-2 win over the Blue Devils (6-5, 5-1).
Tallmadge sent Tucker Linder (2-1) to the mound in search of his third win of the season but the Bulldogs used a five hit, three run fourth inning to build a 5-1 advantage. The Blue Devils scored in the bottom of the first with an RBI single from Linder that scored Matt Shomo from second base. The Bulldogs took a lead they would never relinquish when Evan Steel hit a two run HR to left field in the top of the second. Green would lead off the fourth with a single and a double putting runners at second and third with no outs. A bouncing single over the head of a drawn in infield would score two runs. Green scored the third run of the inning when an attempted double play throw went past first base allowing a runner at third to score.
Starting Green pitcher Scott Martin (1-1) silenced the Tallmadge bats allowing just two hits through six innings. Martin needed just 18 pitches combined to retire the Devils in the third, fourth and fifth innings.
Tallmadge would finally chase the starter in the bottom of the seventh loading the bases before Green's Bryce Miller came on in relief with two outs. Danny Blake worked a walk to push in a run but Miller threw an impressive 3-2 count curve ball that froze Matt Shomo for strike three called on the final out of the game. "That was a very impressive pitch that he threw Matt in that situation," said Linn. "Sometimes all you can do is tip your cap when a guy throws something like that."
The Circle City Boys were held to their lowest output offensively as they were held to just four hits on the day. Linder had two singles and an RBI. Cordt Skraba had a single and Matt Boyer came off the bench with a pinch hit single in the bottom of the seventh. "We just didn't swing it well, some of that was us and some of that was Martin. We have to learn from this. We were flat from the time we got to the field today and I think we thought we could just show up and put this in the win column after Tuesday's win. This is a good team that has the potential to win the league, but we have to learn how to compete every inning of every game," said Linn after the teams first league loss. Tallmadge and Highland sit atop the league with just one loss each.
Tallmadge will host Akron Hoban at Schoonover Stadium on the campus of Kent State University tomorrow at 4pm.
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A Really, Really, Big Sho!
Senior Leads Devils to Suburban League Victory
Green, Ohio
The Tallmadge Blue Devils (6-4, 5-0) behind the pitching and hitting of senior Matt Shomo put three games between themselves and the two time defending Suburban League champion Green Bulldogs (3-6, 2-3). Shomo put together his best pitching performance of the young season in an 8-1 victory, limiting the Bulldogs to just one run and three hits in six innings of work. "I can't say enough about how impressed I am with what Matt accomplished today. He was dominating in every aspect and considering the conditions, that's pretty impressive,"praised Kenny Linn. Game time temperatures hovered in the upper 30's while the wind chill had the teams fighting numbers in the teens. Snow filled the air on several occasions but nothing deterred Shomo on the mound or at the plate where he was 3 for 5 with two RBI's.
Tallmadge scored twice in the top of the second inning without the aid of a hit. Kody Edwards led off the inning with a walk and the Bulldog starting pitcher mishandled a bunt by Scott Noel. With nobody out and runners at first and second Zach Skraba laid down a bunt that the pitcher fielded and tried to make a force at third. The throw went up the line and into left field allowing Edwards to score. Chris Gray picked up an RBI with a groundout to short.
The Circle City Boys added two more runs on five hits in the third inning. With two outs in the inning Tallmadge scored on an RBI single by Edwards and an RBI double by Zach Skraba. Shomo picked up one of his two RBI's with a double off the fence in the sixth. The Blue Devils would add three insurance runs in the top of the seventh with RBI singles from Tucker Linder and Shomo. Cordt Skraba pulled off a perfect squeeze play scoring Gray from third for the first run of the inning.
Tallmadge outhit Green 12 to 5 and played errorless defense for the second time this season. "We made all the plays tonight and that's what you have to do to beat good teams. We didn't allow any extra outs tonight," explained Linn.
Shomo went 3 for 5 and picked up his 10th and 11th RBI of the season. Senior Danny Blake was 3 for 4 with a walk and has an impressive .448 batting average through the first 10 games. Linder, Edwards and Cordt Skraba all had a single and an RBI in the game. Linder leads the Devils with 13 runs batted in. Zach Skraba and Johnny Linn each added a double to the THS offense.
Tallmadge and Green are scheduled for the second game of the two game series Wednesday at Dave Young Field with the first pitch slated for 4:30pm.
JV's Defeat Green The JV's defeated Green at Dave Young Field by a final of 10-7. John Rensel picked up the win, Nick Carey the save for Tallamdge. Logan Dawson continues to hit the ball well leading the Devils with three hits including two doubles. Jake Jascoe and Nick Delesk add two hits each to the Tallmadge attack. Tallmadge is now 7-4 on the season.
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Mr. Robinson's Neighborhood
Blue Devil Junior Wins Debut on Two Hitter
Hillsboro, NC
Junior right handed pitcher Nick Robinson made his first career varisty start a memorable one as he led Tallmadge (5-4) to a 10-0 six inning win over Cedar Ridge, NC with an outstanding two hit gem. "Nick was outstanding today, he showed a lot of poise, threw a lot of first pitch strikes and got a lot of groundball outs. The win was a great way to end this trip," said head coach Kenny Linn.
Tallmadge took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first when Tucker Linder singled home Danny Blake from second base. Blake reached on a one out infield single and advanced into scoring position on a wild pitch. The Circle City Boys sent nine men to the plate in the third inning scoring five runs on four hits. Linder singled home two runs with the bases loaded, Kody Edwards singled home a run, Nathan Jackson drove in a run with a sacrifice fly to center field and Chris Gray picked up an RBI with a double to left field. Matt Shomo drove in a single run in the fourth with a fielders choice and Tallmadge put the run rule into effect with a three run sixth inning. Tallmadge banged out 13 hits in the win. Tristan Clark and Jason Beaumont each picked up varsity career hit number one in the game. Senior short stop Danny Blake finished with three hits on the day. Cordt Skraba added two hits and scored three times.
"It was a great experience for our guys to come down here and play in this tournament. The facilities are first class and the opportunity to experience other things outside of baseball helps creat memories for a lifetime," said Linn.
The Blue Devils will head North and prepare for Suburban League play on Tuesday and Wednesday where they face defending champion Green.
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Bobcats Hand Devils Second North Carolina Loss
Tallmadge Drops Second Straight at Hilltop Invitational
Chapel Hill, NC
For the second game in two days the Blue Devils spotted their opponent a four run advantage in the first inning...and unfortunately they were unable to overcome the deficit. The Blue Devils (4-4, 4-0) lost to Kernersville Glenn, NC (8-6) by a final of 8-6. "One play, one hit, we're just missing on some opportunities to change the game in our favor right now," explained head coach Kenny Linn.
The Bobcats used two walks and four hits to carve out a four run lead in the top of the first off THS starter Zach Cleary. Tallmadge responded with four runs in the bottom of the inning as Tucker Linder doubled in two runs and Kody Edwards picked up two runs with a two out single. Kernersville scored two more in the second for a 6-4 advantage after two innings. Tallmadge fell behind 7-4 in the top of the fourth but responded with a single run as Cordt Skraba drove Chris Gray to the plate with a sacrifice fly to centerfield after Gray had doubled to lead off the inning. Tallmadge loaded the bases with two outs in the fifth but failed to score. The Bobcats added an insurance run in the sixth for an 8-5 advantage. Linder led off the seventh with a double and scored on a ground out as the Blue Devils loaded the bases with two outs before the rally fell short.
The failed comeback spoiled an outstanding pitching performance by Kody Edwards who came on in relief of Cleary in the second inning and went the final six innings allowing just one earned run while striking out seven.
The Bobcats outhit Tallmadge eight to seven. The Blue Devils were led offensively by Tucker Linder who had two doubles, two RBI's and scored twice. Kody Edwards had a two run single and walked twice. Matt Shomo and Scott Noel each had a single along side Chris Gray who had a double and a run scored.
The Blue Devils will wrap up play with a 10am game against Cedar Ridge High School on Saturday.
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Thomas Hobson Carving Niche in Pitt-Bradford Bullpen
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Carolina Blues
Chapel Hill Rains on Devils 6-3
Chapel Hill, NC
The Blue Devils traveled to North Carolina for the 10th Annual Hilltop Invitational Baseball Tournament playing host Chapel Hill high school in game one. In a contest shortened by rain, Tallmadge came out on the short end of 6-3 decision. Tallmadge played the game like a scene out of "Trains, Planes and Automobiles" in that they spent the day in school, headed to Cleveland airport, hopped in vans at Raleigh Durham airport and went straight to the diamond for an 8pm first pitch. The schedule showed as Tallmadge stumbled through the bottom of the first giving up four runs on a couple of hit batters, two errors and a two Chapel Hill hits. "After we settled in it was a pretty good game," said head coach Kenny Linn.
The Blue Devils scored twice in the top of the first taking advantage of two Tiger errors. Johnny Linn reached second on an infield error and Matt Shomo walked. Both runners moved up on a wild pitch and both scored on a throwing error by the third baseman. Chapel Hill scored two more runs in the second inning before starter Nathan Jackson was replaced by Scott Noel. Tallmadge committed 3 errors in the first 12 batters.
With a steady but light rain falling from the second inning on, the field conditions forced umpires to call the game after the top of the sixth. Tallmadge had an opportunity in the sixth as they picked up a run on an RBI single by Kody Edwards. The game ended with the bases loaded and Tallmadge unable to cut any further into the Tigers lead.
Catcher Zach Skraba was a perfect 3 for 3 on the day, Kody Edwards was 2 for 3 with two singles and an RBI. Cordt Skraba chipped in with two infield singles, while Matt Shomo and Danny Blake each singled for the Devils.
The Blue Devils will play this afternoon at 1pm in the consolation bracket.
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Sweep Complete!
Devils Hang On For 5-4 Win at Cloverleaf
Lodi, Ohio
Tallmadge jumped to the top of the Suburban League standings with a road win 5-4 at Cloverleaf (3-4, 1-3). The Blue Devils (4-2) improved to 4-0 in league play and watched as all the Suburban League matchups ended in splits. "There's a lot of baseball to be played but it shows you that it's gonna be a competitive league," said Kenny Linn following the win.
It was not the prettiest win of the season for THS who committed 6 errors behind starting pitcher Matt Shomo. Shomo (1-0) got the win going 5 and 2/3 innings and allowing just one earned run on the day. "Matt did a great job of not letting our fielding issues affect him. Not only on the mound but at the plate as well," praised Linn.
The Colts took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first on a sacrifice fly after the lead off batter reached on a two base outfield error. The Colts attempted four steals in the game and THS catcher Zach Skraba was a perfect 4-4 in throwing out runners. "With all the extra runners we put on base with our defense, I can't say enough about how important those outs were. Zach was outstanding," said Linn. Tallmadge answered with two runs in the top of the second. Danny Blake singled with one out and went to third on a double off the bat of catcher Zach Skraba. Chris Gray scored Blake with a SAC fly and Zach Cleary picked up an RBI with a two double to left center. Cloverleaf regained the lead in the fourth inning with two unearned runs thanks to two Tallmadge errors.
The Circle City Boys would tie the game in the top of the fifth with an RBI single by Tucker Linder. Johnny Linn scored from second after leading off the inning with a single. The Devils loaded the bases with one out but failed to break the 3-3 tie.
Seniors Shomo and Linder would smack back to back RBI doubles to give the Devils a 5-3 lead in the top of the sixth with the Colts down to their final six outs. Shomo would allow a solo HR that brought the Colts to within a run before Zach Cleary earned the save by getting the final four outs of the game. "Zach did a great job in relief and our seniors came up with the big RBI's for the win. We need to tighten up the defense, we can't continue to give teams extra outs and expect to win."
The Blue Devils travel to Chapel Hill, North Carolina to part in the 10th Annual Hilltop Invitational. The tournament is a 16 team affair and Tallmadge will play the host Chapel Hill Tigers in a Thursday night 8 pm contest.
JV Report-Rob Dawson
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The JV Devils came home for the second of a back to back against Cloverleaf. Freshman John Rensel took the mound and went the distance giving up 2 earned runs on 4 hits and striking out 15. Tallmadge banged out 10 hits in the game led by Logan Dawson with a single, a home run and 3 rbi's, Matt Noel with 2 singles, Tristan Clark added a single and a double, Nick Carey collected 2 singles and 2 rbi's, Will Woods stayed hot with a 2 rbi double and John Rensel added a double of his own. Next up, The JV Devils travel to Toronto, Ohio on Friday for a day/night double header. Record 4-4 (2-2) |
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The JV Blue Devils took out some frustrations and got back to their winning ways with a 15-0 pounding of Cloverleaf. Jason Beaumont and Tristan Clark combined for the shutout. The Devils collected 8 hits and were led offensively by Will Woods 3 singles 2 rbi's stolen base Logan Dawson 2 doubles, 3 rbi's Jason Beaumont single rbi Jake Pronio single 2 rbi's Tristan Clark double John Rensel sac fly rbi |
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Wednesday, April 4
Cards Trade Wins with Student Princes
Sophomore Thomas Linder hit a combined 5 for 6 on the day against Heidelberg.
4/3/2012 7:44:00 PM
Game 1 Box Score
Game 2 Box Score
WESTERVILLE, OHIO – Otterbein University baseball played to a split with visiting Heidelberg University Tuesday afternoon, suffering a 10-7 defeat in game one before bouncing back with a 7-5 win in a shortened game two.
Otterbein (15-9, 2-2 OAC) went ahead 2-0 early after RBIs from Jimmy Waterwash and Thomas Linder, but Heidelberg (14-9, 3-1 OAC) posted two runs in the fourth inning to draw even.
The Cardinals wasted no time regaining the lead, batting around in the bottom of the inning en route to four runs and a 6-2 lead. Freshman Zach Thompson started the scoring with a sacrifice fly RBI, followed by junior Wes Meadows drawing a walk with the bases loaded before RBIs from Linder and starting pitcher Greg Moomaw.
The Student Princes drew to within 6-5 in the sixth frame, and threatened to take the lead before junior Matt Frey came on in relief to escape the inning with a double-play ground ball.
The Cards added an insurance run in the bottom of the sixth, but unfortunately fell victim to Heidelberg scoring five runs off three different Otterbein pitchers in the last inning en route to the tough defeat.
Linder went 3 for 4 with a pair of RBIs during game one, with freshman Billy Harkenrider going 2 for 4 and crossing the plate three times. Jimmy Waterwash added a 2 for 4 effort at the dish, driving in one run.
Heidelberg took a brief 1-0 lead in game two before the Otterbein offense erupted in the second inning, batting around the lineup and recording six runs.
Freshman shortstop Sean Kettering bumped the margin to 7-2 with his first career home run in the third inning, and Otterbein maintained the lead before the game was called due to darkness in the middle of the sixth frame.
Linder continued his hot streak in game two, going 2 for 2 with a walk. Kettering posted two hits and two runs scored while Caleb Woodson delivered two RBIs.
Otterbein remains at home to finish out the week, hosting a doubleheader with Ohio Northern University Friday at 1 p.m.
Game 2 Box Score
WESTERVILLE, OHIO – Otterbein University baseball played to a split with visiting Heidelberg University Tuesday afternoon, suffering a 10-7 defeat in game one before bouncing back with a 7-5 win in a shortened game two.
Otterbein (15-9, 2-2 OAC) went ahead 2-0 early after RBIs from Jimmy Waterwash and Thomas Linder, but Heidelberg (14-9, 3-1 OAC) posted two runs in the fourth inning to draw even.
The Cardinals wasted no time regaining the lead, batting around in the bottom of the inning en route to four runs and a 6-2 lead. Freshman Zach Thompson started the scoring with a sacrifice fly RBI, followed by junior Wes Meadows drawing a walk with the bases loaded before RBIs from Linder and starting pitcher Greg Moomaw.
The Student Princes drew to within 6-5 in the sixth frame, and threatened to take the lead before junior Matt Frey came on in relief to escape the inning with a double-play ground ball.
The Cards added an insurance run in the bottom of the sixth, but unfortunately fell victim to Heidelberg scoring five runs off three different Otterbein pitchers in the last inning en route to the tough defeat.
Linder went 3 for 4 with a pair of RBIs during game one, with freshman Billy Harkenrider going 2 for 4 and crossing the plate three times. Jimmy Waterwash added a 2 for 4 effort at the dish, driving in one run.
Heidelberg took a brief 1-0 lead in game two before the Otterbein offense erupted in the second inning, batting around the lineup and recording six runs.
Freshman shortstop Sean Kettering bumped the margin to 7-2 with his first career home run in the third inning, and Otterbein maintained the lead before the game was called due to darkness in the middle of the sixth frame.
Linder continued his hot streak in game two, going 2 for 2 with a walk. Kettering posted two hits and two runs scored while Caleb Woodson delivered two RBIs.
Otterbein remains at home to finish out the week, hosting a doubleheader with Ohio Northern University Friday at 1 p.m.
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Colts Kick It!
Devils Take Advantage of Leaf Errors, Win 12-2
Tallmadge, Ohio
The Tallmadge Blue Devils (3-2,3-0) took advantage of six Cloverleaf (3-3,2-1) errors enroute to a five inning 12-2 victory at Dave Young Field. "This is what we needed after the weekend we had. After a loss you just want to get right back out on the field," said Kenny Linn. "We had much better at bats, scored early and put the pressure on their defense with some pretty hard hit balls."
Tucker Linder (2-0) got the start and went four innings striking out six for the win. Tallmadge got on the board in the bottom of the first after Linder set down the Colts in order including two K's. Johnny Linn doubled and rode home on a Matt Shomo double. Scott Noel singled to bring Shomo home from third after he moved up on a Linder fly ball out. THS would add a single run in the second when Nathan Jackson reached via a walk and scored on a ground out by Cordt Skraba. Cloverleaf used five hits including three infield singles to score twice in the top of the fourth inning to make it a 3-2 contest.
Tallmadge would bat around in the bottom of the fourth sending 10 batters to the plate scoring six runs, all after the first two batters were retired. Kody Edwards reached on the first of three errors in the inning on an overthrow and scored on an RBI triple off the bat of Chris Gray. Back to Back RBI singles by Cordt Skraba and Linn plated two more runs. Scott Noel picked up two RBI's on a single and Tucker Linder scored from third on a wild pitch after drawing a walk. Tallmadge put the game away with three runs in the bottom of the fifth for the run rule victory.
Matt Shomo (.412 ave.) and Chris Gray (.556 ave.) continued their quick start to the season. Shomo reached base four times and had a double, single, two runs and two RBI's. Gray ripped a triple, single and had an RBI reaching base in all three appearances. Cordt Skraba singled and scored while brother Zach singled, stole second and scored. Scott Noel finshed two for three with three RBI's. Johnny Linn singled, doubled and drove in two runs.
The same two teams will square off tomorrow in Lodi with first pitch at 4:30pm.
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Tallmadge Loses a Great Baseball Man
Rick Kilway Laid to Rest
I just returned home from watching a college baseball game in Northeast Ohio. It was a game between two schools that are members of the GLIAC and play at the NCAA Division II level. In game one the home team won 3-0 thanks to an outstanding pitching performance by a sophomore right handed starter. The lean lanky righty was masterful in spinning a two hit, six strikeout performance. It was the first shutout of the hurlers college career. To some in attendance it was just a very nice pitching performance, to most that were aware, it was so very much more than just a home team win.
That lean lanky right hander who put his uniform on that day with special meaning was Tallmadge's own Brian Kilway. Today Brian pitched for the first time in his life without his father in the stands, without him on the road at work, without him watching or listening on computer. Today Brian Kilway pitched with his father in his heart. Just 48 hours earlier Brian was wearing a uniform of a different kind and was dealing with the worst that the game of life can deal out...the sudden death of his father. Rick Kilway passed away Sunday evening of heart failure, leaving behind three sons, Matt, Patrick, Brian and his loving wife Karen. One week later, the youngest of three sons, pitched the college game of his career, the day after his brother had four hits in a double header sweep. Brian and Patrick Kilway have helped lead the Lake Erie College Storm to the top of their conference.
I first met Rick Kilway on the small baseball fields of Tallmadge. I'm talking about the T-Ball fields behind churches and elementary schools scattered around the city anywhere you could set up a field. Brian was the same age as my oldest and we began years of local,travel,high school and college ball. Rick gave of his time to work on fields, serve at fund raisers and host team meals. When it came to baseball there wasn't anything Rick wouldn't do to help out. Rick was at his best coaching youngsters, drilling and demanding the fundamentals. Often dressed in a white shirt and dress pants having come straight from work with no time to change, Rick towered over the little leaguers but put them all at ease with that smile that seemed to never leave his face.
Rick Kilway is the guy that gave "Daddy Ball" a good name. He coached his sons, he coached my sons, he coached the sons of many in Tallmadge, he coached whoever was on his teams. He didn't play favorites and worked just as hard with the talented player as he did with the youngster at the end of the bench. Not much mattered to Rick when it came to baseball. It didn't matter who your mom or dad was, it didn't matter what they did. It didn't matter if you had a state of the art bat or glove or whether you wore pants handed down from an older brother, if you wanted to play baseball you were ok by him. Rick taught the game of baseball the way it was meant to be taught. Play hard, play fair and play to win. In Little League when an opponent made a good play often the first voice of congratulations would come from coach Kilway. Rick got it....I mean he understood...it wasn't about Rick Kilway. It wasn't about his team. It was about the kids....it was about baseball.
Rick loved the game and passed on his love of the game to others, especially his sons. When things didn't work out for his oldest son Matt at the high school level Rick saw to it that Matt had opportunities to continue playing the game he loved during the summer, which Matt did beyond his high school days. It was always about playing the game. If things didn't always work out the way his youngest sons wanted, he simply told them to work harder, love the game and things will work out. He was a wise man, because things always seemed to work out.
Now faced with the toughest times of their young lives the Kilway boys will have to draw on all that their father has taught them, all that the game has taught them and find a way to perservere. There is no doubt the Kilway family will continue to thrive, they are a strong bunch, full of love and compassion for each other, who have made their father proud throughout his life and will continue to do so in his honor. Before falling ill on Sunday, Rick was doing what he loved to do best, watch his sons on the baseball field. Sitting in the hospital watching the game on computer, no doubt coaching in his mind all the while, Rick Kilway smiled, he smiled that smile that everyone who knew him will always remember.
Rick Kilway was a great baseball man, Rick Kilway was a great man, I will miss him.
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Devils Double Dip Devils
Brunswick Blue Devils Sweep THS 3-1 and 6-3
Tallmadge, Ohio
One thing was certain before the start of Saturdays double header with Brunswick, the Blue Devils were going to come out on top. Unfortunately for Tallmadge (2-2) it was the Blue Devils from the North that got the best of the locals as Brunswick (2-3) won both games by a final count of 3-1 and 6-3. "It's disappointing, it's not that we played horribly, it's just that we didn't come up with the big hits when we had opportunities," said a frustrated Kenny Linn.
THS took a short lived lead in game one when Matt Shomo reached second on a two out single in the bottom of the first and scored when the shortstop dropped a high fly ball off the bat of Tucker Linder. Brunswick would take the lead for good in the top of the third with two unearned runs when a ball rolled into the dugout on a throw from the outfield allowing two runners to walk home on the overthrow. Brunswick would add an insurance run in the 6th with a solo HR off the bat of Ty Greiner. "We had one hit in every inning and left one runner on in every inning. We just couldn't bunch anything together," said Linn. THS out hit Brunswick 7 to 4 but could only push one run across the plate. Sophomore Chris Gray was 2 for 3 with a double, Linder had a double, and Johnny Linn, Shomo, Scott Noel, and Matt Boyer all had singles in game one.
Brunswick would score twice in the top of the first in game two thanks to back to back doubles and an RBI groundout. They would add two more in the top of the third with three hits. Tallmadge would break through in the bottom of the third on a Matt Shomo solo HR to left field. It is the first of the year and sixth in the career for the senior. Trailing 6-1 in the 6th Tallmadge would rally with two runs but back to back strikeouts would short circuit the threat. Linder walked and scored on a throwing error allowing Nathan Jackson to reach. Jackson would ride home on a Danny Blake RBI double to center. THS would end the game with seven hits while Brunswick banged out 11 hits. Blake had a single and double to lead Tallmadge while Cordt Skraba, Jackson, Nick Robinson, and Chris Gray all had singles.
Tallmadge will return to league play on Tuesday and Wednesday as they face Cloverleaf at home then travel to Lodi. All Suburban League games begin at 4:30pm.
Blue Devil JV's-Thanks to Mr. Dawson for the updates!
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JV squad drops 2 more tough ones to Brunswick
Game 1 Once again, errors dug a hole for the Devils as Brunswick jumped out to a 3-0 lead. Tallmadge battled back to tie the game at 3 in the 5th inning thanks to a 2 rbi single from Will Woods and an unearned run. The Devils lost the lead in the bottom of the 6th giving up a 5 spot making the score 8-3 heading into the 7th. As has been this teams battle cry, they strike again in the 7th as they load the bases for Logan Dawson who cleared them with a deep double, his second hit of the game, but it wasn't enough as Tallmadge falls 8-6. Will Woods had 2 singles and 2 rbi's, Matt Noel had 2 base hits. Logan Dawson had a single, double and 3 rbi's and John Rensel and AJ Fagerlin added singles as well. Game 2 Tallmadge starts Nick Carey on the mound for game 2 who pitched a brilliant 6 innings. Once again, Brunswick struck first with 2 unearned runs taking a 2-0 lead. Again, Tallmadge battled back to even the score 2-2 on Logan Dawsons 2nd double of the day. As in game one, Brunswick regained the lead 5-2. Again, Tallmadge plates 3 runs in the 7th inning on hits by Jake Jascoe and Tristan Clark and a 2 rbi single by Jake Pronio to send the game to extra innings tied 5-5. After a scoreless 8th, Brunswick scores in the bottom of the 9th for a 6-5 win. Defensively, John Rensel made a great diving play at short stop, and Jake Pronio made a great over the shoulder catch on a deep fly ball to center Logan Dawson single, double 2 rbi, Jake Pronio 2 singles 2 rbi, Tristan Clark single, AJ Fagerlin single, Jake Jascoe single Record 2-4 |
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Former Blue Devils Face Off in Opening Week of OAC Play
Derek "Charlie" Frye (Mt. Union) Thomas Linder (Otterbein) Represent THS
WESTERVILLE, OHIO – The Otterbein baseball team opened Ohio Athletic Conference play with a split against visiting Mount Union (14-6, 1-1 OAC) Saturday at Fishbaugh Field, winning game one 6-0 before falling 11-2 in the second outing.
Otterbein (14-8, 1-1 OAC) drew first blood in game one with five runs in the third inning, started off by three-straight hits from Caleb Woodson, Greg Moomaw, and Wes Meadows. The Cardinals later took advantage of a pair of Purple Raider errors en route to batting around the order.
Freshman AJ Finlay
Moomaw finished the game 3 for 4 with two runs scored, while Thomas Linder and AJ Finlay each tallied two hits as well.
The Cardinals would not be as fortunate in game two, falling behind 4-1 after four innings and seeing the Raiders add four more in the seventh frame for an 8-1 advantage.
Otterbein managed one run in the bottom of the seventh on a sacrifice fly from Meadows, but the damage was done as Mount left with an 11-2 victory.
The Cardinals remain at home for the next week, hosting doubleheaders with Heidelberg (Tuesday) and Ohio Northern (Friday).
Sunday, April 1
Players to watch during the 2012 Northeast Ohio high school baseball season
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Walsh Jesuit catcher Cassidy Brown, seen above celebrating a Warriors victory last season, is one of the top juniors in Ohio after batting .406 with 31 RBI in 2011. - (Thomas Ondrey, PD)
Tucker Linder of Tallmadge.
Bryce Miller of Green.
David Brock, 3B/P, Sr., Crestwood: The 6-2, 195-pound multidimensional player batted .397 with 25 RBI and 14 stolen bases. Struck out 95 batters in 55 innings.
Cassidy Brown, C/P, Jr., Walsh Jesuit:One of the top juniors in the state, he batted .406 with four home runs and 31 RBI.
Spencer Byers, P/OF, Sr., Shaker Heights: Batted .339 and was 5-3 with a 3.05 ERA and 39 strikeouts.
Dominick Edwards, P, Sr., Mentor: The 6-5, 190-pound St. Bonaventure recruit was 6-0 with a 0.73 ERA.
Scott Effross, P/1B, Sr., Twinsburg: The Indiana recruit went 5-2 with one save with a 2.27 ERA and 46 strikeouts in 491/3 innings.
Gordy Egan, SS, Sr., Holy Name: He can beat you with his bat (.471, 24 RBI) or his glove.
Michael Fearer, P, Sr., Kenston: Went 8-3 with a 1.47 ERA and 46 strikeouts. Gives the Bombers a solid 1-2 rotation when paired with Kyle McKnight.
Justin Fritts, P/1B, Sr., Mentor: Was 5-0 with a 1.82 ERA while batting .405 with 19 RBI.
Graeme Frye, CF/C, Sr., Walsh Jesuit:In his fourth season as a starter, the Slippery Rock recruit batted .403 with 16 RBI from the leadoff spot.
Tyler Greiner, C/1B, Sr., Brunswick: A steadying influence behind the plate, the Bowling Green recruit batted close to .320 last season.
Ray Guerrini, C, Sr., Mayfield: The Air Force recruit batted .385 and was solid behind the plate.
Jake Hall, P/OF, Sr., Willoughby South:Will be the No. 2 starter and key run-producer after driving in 27 last year.
Connor Hall, C/INF, Sr., Shaker Heights: The 6-4, 210-pound Davidson football recruit batted .400, hit three homers and knocked in 15 runs.
Alex Havens, SS/P, Sr., Twinsburg: The Baldwin-Wallace recruit led the Tigers with a .494 average and shared the team lead with 28 RBI.
Conor Hennessey, OF, Jr., St. Ignatius:Will bat leadoff to take advantage of his outstanding speed. Superb defensively.
Trey Hopkins, INF, Sr., Cleveland Heights: In 19 games the former outfielder batted .357 with three home runs, 21 RBI and 14 stolen bases.
Austin Jackson, SS, Soph., Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin: Batted .395 with 27 RBI.
Cameron Knott, P, Sr., Willoughby South: Mercyhurst recruit was 8-2 with a 0.97 ERA for the regional champions. Also batted .329 and drove in 16 runs.
Tucker Linder, P/IB, Sr., Tallmadge: Kent State recruit was a Plain Dealer All-Star in 2011 when he went 7-1 with a 0.98 ERA and batted .378 with 14 RBI.
Rutger Luebke, C, Sr., Medina: Lake Erie recruit batted .356 with 12 RBI.
Michael Marsinek, P, Sr., Walsh Jesuit: The left-handed Eastern Michigan recruit was 8-0 with a 1.12 ERA. Struck out 58 in 43 innings and held opposing batters to a .176 average.
Kyle McKnight, P/IF, Sr., Kenston: Will team with Michael Fearer to give the Bombers one of the top 1-2 starting combinations in the Chagrin Valley Conference. Was 7-1 with a 3.59 ERA.
Kyle Michalik, SS/P, Jr., Brunswick: In his third year as a starter, he committed to Ohio State last fall after a strong summer campaign. Batted close
to .360 last season.
Bryce Miller, P/OF, Sr., Green: The Plain Dealer All-Star was 7-0 with a 2.66 ERA and batted .480 with a school- record 47 hits.
Tommy Mirabelli, SS, Sr., St. Edward: The son of Indians executive John Mirabelli will attend Kansas. Batted .513 as a sophomore and .278 last year during an abbreviated schedule.
Kevin Neumann, P/1B, Sr., Westlake: Three-year letterman returns as staff ace after going 3-1 with a 2.36 ERA in 27 innings.
Dominick Paolucci, C, Sr., Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin: Drove in 31 runs with three homers and a .381 average.
Forrest Perron, SS, Sr., Strongsville: Cincinnati recruit batted .444 with 16 RBI and 11 stolen bases.
Ryan Rogers, 1B/OF, Sr., Avon: Earned honorable mention all-Ohio honors after batting .400 and driving in 14 runs.
Dan Rowbottom, 2B, Jr., St. Ignatius: Moves from third base. Batted .340 and is excellent defensively.
Steve Scaccia, CF, Sr., Willoughby South: Will be counted on as a team leader. Batted .339 and knocked in 12 runs last year.
Caleb Schillace, P/1B, Sr., Keystone: Toledo recruit and superb all-around athlete batted .430 and drove in 33 runs last year while compiling a 5-2 record with a 2.93 ERA.
Chad Sedio, OF, Sr., Highland: Stands a chance at setting school record for highest career batting average (he's at .471, record is .416). Will attend Miami of Ohio.
Zak Shockley, P, Sr., St. Ignatius: The Marshall recruit will be the No. 1 starter.
Matt Shomo, P/OF, Sr., Tallmadge: Was team's most productive hitter at .442, with five homers and 28 RBI. Those stats and a 31 on the ACT make him an attractive recruit.
Brandon Sittinger, P/SS, Sr., Keystone: An 8-1 record, 1.19 ERA, 85 strikeouts in 59 innings and a .340 batting average earned a scholarship to Marshall.
Jacob Solomon, OF, Sr., Independence: Batted .463 with 20 RBI and 10 extra-base hits.
Matt Smoral, P, Sr., Solon: The 6-8, 230-pound North Carolina recruit was 4-1 with a 1.82 ERA and 47 strikeouts in 34 innings.
Drew Teller, P, Sr., Mayfield: The St. Bonaventure recruit was 3-0 with a 1.30 ERA.
Kurt Vidmer, SS/P, Sr., Chagrin Falls: In his fourth season as a starter, the Davidson football recruit batted .430 with five home runs and 25 RBI. Also was 6-1 with a 4.83 ERA in 331/3 innings.
Danny Wallack, 2B, Sr., Mentor: Led the Cardinals with a .492 average while playing a steady second base.
Griffin Weir, P/IF, Jr., Amherst: Led team in innings (31 ) while posting a 4-1 record. OSU, Cincinnati and Louisville are showing interest.
Tom Yakubowski, C/OF, Sr., Archbishop Hoban: Helped the Knights to a state runner-up finish when he batted .389 with five doubles and 16 RBI.
Joel Yeagley, P/OF, Sr., Avon: Four-year letter-winner and Mercyhurst recruit batted .329 and knocked in 18 runs.
Mark Zimmerman, P/3B, Sr., Green: Batted .402 with 24 RBI and went 5-1 with a 1.51 ERA.
-- Tim Rogers
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Blown Away!
Devils Win on Walk Off Home Run by Linder
Noel Slams Door on Grizzlies
Tallmadge, Ohio
Early in the game Wednesday afternoon it looked as though the chance of a Tallmadge win had been swept away by the high winds blowing out to left field. Wadsworth jumped out to a three run lead in the top of the first but could not hang on to a five run lead as the Devil's fought back and won 7-5 in the bottom of the seventh with a walk off three run blast off the bat of senior Tucker Linder. "I just felt that the whole game these guys were gonna find a way to win this, and they didn't let me down," said Head Coach Kenny Linn.
Wadsworth jumped out on top thanks to back to back line drive home runs from the launching pad that was Dave Young Field. High winds turned several doubles into round trippers as the Grizzlies led 3-0 after one. Wadsworth would add a single run in the second and a solo home run in the fourth for a 5-0 lead. Tallmadge struggled early with just a lead off double from Danny Blake in the third as there only hit through three innings.
Scott Noel came on in relief of starter Matt Shomo in the top of the fourth and held serve while the Devils got the offense in gear. Tallmadge had two outs in the bottom of the fifth when Noel reached on a fielders choice. Johnny Linn and Cordt Skraba reached on singles to load the bases and Matt Shomo doubled just inside the left field line scoring two. Tucker Linder followed with a single scoring two more and the Devils were within one at 5-4. Noel contiuned to hand cuff the Grizzlies blanking them on just two hits over the final three innings setting up the seventh inning heroics.
Cordt Skraba led off the bottom of the seventh with his second bunt single of the day. Matt Shomo worked the count full before drawing a walk. Linder watched back to back breaking balls make the count 1 and 1. "I knew there was no way he was throwing another curve ball. I was sitting dead red. I knew it was gone when I hit it, wind or no wind," said Linder.
"I can't say enough about what Scotty gave us tonight," said Linn of his big left hander. "He had some arm issues over the summer, worked hard to come back and actually struggled a little during his early spring outings. We weren't sure what he could give us, he gave us a big win tonight. I'm very proud of what he accomplished." It was the first varsity pitching appearance for the junior who picked up career win number one.
Linder finished the night 3 for 4 with two singles, a HR and five RBI's. Shomo had a double with two RBI's and scored twice. Cordt Skraba scored twice on two singles, Johnny Linn added a single and Blake had a double.
The Devil's are scheduled to host Brunswick in a double header at Dave Young Field on Saturday with the first pitch scheduled for 11:00am.
JV's Lost 7-5 at Wadsworth as a comeback attempt fell short. Freshman Matt Noel had three hits, Jake Pronio and Will Woods had two hits each. Jason Beaumont had two doubles and to RBI's. Logan Dawson singled home a run in the loss for the Devils who fall to 2-2.
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Devils Hit the Ground Running
Tallmadge Defeats Wadsworth in Season Opener
Wadsworth, Ohio
The Blue Devils (1-0, 1-0) got off on the right foot Tuesday at Wadsworth (0-2,0-1) with a 9-3 victory over the Grizzlies. "Something about those guys that always scares me. I'm always nervous when we come here to play. It's nice to get that first one in the win column and now we look for the sweep tomorrow," said Head Coach Kenny Linn.
Tallmadge right hander Tucker Linder (1-0) got the win going four innings allowing one run on five hits and striking out three. "Tuck wasn't at his best and we had him on a pitch count. It's just the second time he's thrown live. I knew he would battle and give us a chance to win and he did that. He'll keep getting stronger," explained Linn. Nathan Jackson came on in the fifth and went three solid innings to pick up the save. "Nathan really showed me something today. He got into some trouble and I like the way he showed some toughness and worked out of it." Jackson worked out of a bases loaded jam in the sixth with the score at 6-3 by striking out the Wadsworth three hole hitter.
Senior Matt Shomo showed the stroke that garnered him All-League honors a season ago by ripping a pair of doubles over the left fielders head and driving in two runs. Cordt Skraba was 2 for 4 with two bunt singles and two runs scored. Danny Blake got off to a great start with two singles and a walk. Kody Edwards singled home a run in the seventh and Johnny Linn had a single and a SAC fly for an RBI. Zach Skraba and Zach Cleary each had a SAC fly RBI on the day. Nathan Jackson reached twice via a walk and scored both times. Tucker Linder reached on an intentional walk in the seventh and scored on a balk. Every Blue Devil in the line up scored a run or drove a run in.
"The difference in the game was we did a lot of the little things that put pressure on them defensively. We had three runs score on SAC flys and we had good at bats that put guys on base. We reached on three bunts and did some really fundamentally sound things in the game," said Linn.
Tallmadge will host Wadsworth in the home opener today at 4:30 with Matt Shomo scheduled on the mound for the Devils.
JV's -The Blue Devil's lost an extra inning affair to Wadsworth by the final of 4-2.
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Monday, March 26
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JV's Open With Sweep of Hoban
Akron, Ohio
The JV Blue Devils opened the 2012 season with a two game sweep at Hoban by the final scores of 9-2 and 8-6. The Devil's got outstanding pitching and had a big day at the plate as well. In game one lefty Scott Noel was dominating allowing just one run on four hits while striking out ten through five innings to get the win. Freshman John Rensel had a double and a triple to lead the offense while Jason Beaumont added two RBI's to the Devil cause.
In game two the Devil's had five batters post a multi-hit game. Bill Woods was 3 for 5 with 2 RBI's, Matt Noel was 2 for 4, John Rensel continued a big day going 2 for 4, Nick Robinson was 2 for 4 and Nick Carey was 2 for 4 at the plate and picked up the win on the mound.
The JV's will host Wadsworth at Dave Young Field on Tuesday with first pitch scheduled at 4:30.
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Saturday, March 24
Cards Bounce Back to Sweep Ohio Christian
Zach Thompson had three hits on the afternoon against Ohio Christian.
3/24/2012 4:13:00 PM
Game 1 Box Score
Game 2 Box Score
CHILLICOTHE, OHIO – Otterbein University baseball got itself back into the win column Saturday afternoon, sweeping a doubleheader with Ohio Christian University at VA Memorial Stadium.
The Cardinals suffered a tough 7-6 loss in the bottom of the ninth inning at Rio Grande earlier in the week, but responded to defeat the Trailblazers by scores of 5-2 and 9-2 to up their season record to 13-5.
Otterbein demonstrated a workmanlike effort early on, using a sacrifice fly from Wes Meadows in the first inning before RBIs from Sean Kettering and Greg Moomaw in the third frame opened a 3-0 lead.
Senior Dustin Reuter continued to cruise on the mound from that point, and held a 5-0 lead with OCU ready for its final at-bat.
The Trailblazers finally found an offensive stride, posting two runs in the bottom of the seventh and getting the tying run to the plate before Dominic Porretta came on to record a two-pitch save.
Reuter was solid throughout, striking out nine batters (eight swinging) and walking just one over 6.2 innings of work. He improves to 4-1 this season with the win.
"I felt good out there today," Reuter said. "My breaking stuff was working well and the fastball felt live. We had a few errors in the field but you just have to stay calm and get the job done. It was fun out there."
Otterbein took an early lead once again in game two, taking a 7-2 advantage into the fourth inning after plating three in the first and four more in the third.
The score would remain the same until the top of the sixth when Billy Harkenrider, the reigning Ohio Athletic Conference “Hitter of the Week”, singled through the left side to bring home junior Scott Staarmann.
A Ty Compton sacrifice fly pushed the Cardinal lead to 9-2, and the margin would be more than enough for right-hander David Cydrus on the mound as Otterbein cruised to victory.
Sophomore Thomas Linder was solid on the afternoon, hitting 4 for 7 with three RBI and a run scored. Harkenrider, AJ Finlay, and Zach Thompson all tallied a multi-hit game on the day as well.
Cydrus went the distance in the mound, allowing six hits, one walk, and striking out three in seven innings of work.
Otterbein travels to play Case Western Reserve Tuesday afternoon before turning around to battle Division I Ohio University on Wednesday evening in Athens.
Game 2 Box Score
CHILLICOTHE, OHIO – Otterbein University baseball got itself back into the win column Saturday afternoon, sweeping a doubleheader with Ohio Christian University at VA Memorial Stadium.
The Cardinals suffered a tough 7-6 loss in the bottom of the ninth inning at Rio Grande earlier in the week, but responded to defeat the Trailblazers by scores of 5-2 and 9-2 to up their season record to 13-5.
Otterbein demonstrated a workmanlike effort early on, using a sacrifice fly from Wes Meadows in the first inning before RBIs from Sean Kettering and Greg Moomaw in the third frame opened a 3-0 lead.
Senior Dustin Reuter continued to cruise on the mound from that point, and held a 5-0 lead with OCU ready for its final at-bat.
Thomas Linder
Reuter was solid throughout, striking out nine batters (eight swinging) and walking just one over 6.2 innings of work. He improves to 4-1 this season with the win.
"I felt good out there today," Reuter said. "My breaking stuff was working well and the fastball felt live. We had a few errors in the field but you just have to stay calm and get the job done. It was fun out there."
Otterbein took an early lead once again in game two, taking a 7-2 advantage into the fourth inning after plating three in the first and four more in the third.
The score would remain the same until the top of the sixth when Billy Harkenrider, the reigning Ohio Athletic Conference “Hitter of the Week”, singled through the left side to bring home junior Scott Staarmann.
A Ty Compton sacrifice fly pushed the Cardinal lead to 9-2, and the margin would be more than enough for right-hander David Cydrus on the mound as Otterbein cruised to victory.
Sophomore Thomas Linder was solid on the afternoon, hitting 4 for 7 with three RBI and a run scored. Harkenrider, AJ Finlay, and Zach Thompson all tallied a multi-hit game on the day as well.
Cydrus went the distance in the mound, allowing six hits, one walk, and striking out three in seven innings of work.
Otterbein travels to play Case Western Reserve Tuesday afternoon before turning around to battle Division I Ohio University on Wednesday evening in Athens.
Saturday, March 24
Weather 1 Tallmadge 0
Season Opener in Columbus Cancelled
Columbus, Ohio
It didn't take long for Mother Nature to claim her first baseball game of the season as the Blue Devils games against Dublin Coffman have been cancelled due to inclement weather. The Blue Devils will hope to get their season underway Tuesday at Wadsworth in game one of Suburban League play. Tallmadge swept the two game series against the Grizzlies last year.
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2012 Preview
Seniors Hope to Add Another Chapter to Tallmadge Tradition
The 2011 Blue Devils finished the season with 18 wins and a District title, a trip to the Sweet Sixteen and a runner up finish in the Suburban League. For the 2012 Blue Devils that might not be enough. "Our goal for the past three years has been to win a state title, this year is no different," said senior Tucker Linder. "Building on what we were a part of last year and doing even better this season is what we are shooting for," said classmate Matt Shomo.
Tallmadge finished 18-6 last season and lost four seniors to graduation. Andrew Bonnette is now a member of the Walsh University baseball team. Derek Frye is seeing action for the Raiders of Mt. Union, while Thomas Hobson is a member of the pitching staff at Pitt-Bradford. The Blue Devils will also miss Jamie Lowery who was a key for the offense and on the mound last season.
"Every year we will only go as far as our seniors will take us. We have a great group this season who have been together for a long time and they are ready to carry on the tradition of Tallmadge baseball," said head coach Kenny Linn who enters his ninth season.
Once again Tallmadge will have a strong pitching staff led by All-Ohio senior right hander Tucker Linder. Linder was 7-1 last season with a 0.95 ERA including 70 K's in 52 innings. Linder owns a 17-5 record in three seasons and has held opponents to a .189 batting average with a 1.79 ERA. Senior Matt Shomo was 2-2 a season ago with a save and had five starts. Nathan Jackson came off the disabled list at the end of last season appearing in two games and getting a win in his only start. Junior lefty Zach Cleary is the fourth man in the rotation and has looked good in his preseason starts after missing all of last year with a knee injury. Other members of the pitching staff are junior left hander Scott Noel, Tristan Clark, Nick Robinson, Jason Beaumont, and Johnny Linn.
"We have a very strong group of arms and I think these guys will keep us in every game. Shomo and Jackson have been impressive during the preseason and Tuck looked good in the recent Blue and Gold outing. I think Cleary can really help us and we have some depth with the younger guys," said pitching coach Ben Shepherd.
Senior Matt Boyer and junior Zach Skraba will see most of the time behind the plate. Freshman Matt Noel could get spot duty but is expected to be the starter at the JV level. Linder, Jackson, and Scott Noel will work at first base. All-League selection, junior Kody Edwards will return to second base after batting .324 last season with 18 RBI's. Senior Danny Blake who moved from second to shortstop last season returns to short in 2012. Blake was second on the team in walks and had an impressive on base percentage of .427 scoring 23 runs. Junior Johnny Linn is the leading candidate for the third base position and will share time at the hot corner with Linder. Senior All-League selection Matt Shomo returns as a starter in the outfield and can play left or right field. Shomo led the team with five home runs last year. The senior batted .442 with 28 RBI's in 24 games striking out just six times in 90 plate appearances. Junior Cordt Skraba is a two year letter winner in the outfield and batted .355 last season. Sophomore Chris Gray and Zach Cleary will battle for the center field slot. Gray appeared in 14 games as a freshman last year mostly as a pinch runner.
"I really like this group top to bottom. We have some roles to fill and younger guys who will be fighting for those spots. We have good team speed and with the new bats I don't think we are going to be able to mash teams like we have in the past. We are going to have to manufacture runs, pitch well and play good defense," said Linn.
Tallmadge will open the season on Saturday in Columbus in a double header at Dublin Coffman with the first pitch slated for noon.
Friday, March 23
Blue and Gold Scrimmage
Devils Final Tune Up for Saturday Opener
Tallmadge, Ohio
Following a highly intensive "draft", the Devils faced off against each other in the annual Blue and Gold scrimmage on Thursday afternoon at Dave Young Field. The Blue squad led by coach Shepherd came away the winner 2-1 over the Gold squad led by coach Wray. Eleven different pitchers saw action on the mound in the six inning game. The Blue squad scored a single run in the first when Tucker Linder hit a shot up the middle that rocketed off the foot of pitcher Matt Shomo and ended up at the first base bag allowing Johnny Linn to score from third. Linn reached on a lead off single and went to third on a Danny Blake single. The Blue squad would add to it's lead in the second with an RBI single by Nick Robinson. The Gold team would draw to within a run in the third inning when freshman Will Woods singled home Cordt Skraba. Skraba picked up his second hit of the day earlier in the inning on a perfect bunt for a single.
"It's a fun game for the guys and the coaches still get to teach and evaluate," said Kenny Linn. The players and parents enjoyed a picnic following the game.
Tallmadge is scheduled to open the season in Columbus on Saturday in a double header against Dublin Coffman with the first pitch set for Noon.
Friday, March 23
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Friday, March 23
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Kilways Help Lead the Storm
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Blue Devils "Walk" Past McKinley in Final Preseason Tune Up 8-3
THS Completes Preseason, Looks Toward Saturday Opener
Kent, Ohio
The Blue Devils closed out the preseason portion of their schedule with an 8-3 win over Canton McKinley at Kent State's Schoonover Stadium on Monday afternoon. Tallmadge was able to get all four scrimmages in this preseason thanks to the outstanding spring weather and completed the schedule 4-0. "It's been awhile since we've been able to get this many scrimmages in prior to the season," said Head Coach Kenny Linn. "It has been great because it gives us such a better opportunity to evaluate players and to see our strengths and weaknesses."
Tallmadge hosted Cleveland St. Ignatius at Kent State earlier in the week and looked very good leading the Wildcats after seven innings 6-2. The Blue Devils built a 6-0 lead through five innings and pulled the starters to get a look at the younger players on the roster.
On Monday against the Bulldogs, the Devils took advantage of a walk, a two base error on a pick off attempt and a Matt Shomo Sac fly to plate a run in the bottom of the first to tie the game at 1-1. Four walks, two errors and several wild pitches allowed Tallmadge to score four runs on just one hit in the bottom of the third. The Devils would add a single run in the fifth when Cordt Skraka was hit with a pitch, followed by back to back walks and scored on a wild pitch. Tallmadge would end the scoring in the bottom of the seventh when senior Matt Shomo hit a home run to left field. It was the second time in two seasons that Shomo has gone yard at Olga Mural field. The two run blast made the final count 8-3.
Tallmadge used five different pitchers ove seven innings including Zach Cleary (2), John Linn (1), Nick Robinson (2), Scott Noel (1) and Matt Shomo (1). As a staff Tallmadge combined for 13 strikeouts while allowing seven walks. "The first three scrimmages I thought we threw it very well. Today I think was a bit of a step backwards, too many walks and we didn't pitch ahead in the count enough. With the new bats we need to throw srtikes and play defense," said pitching coach Ben Shepherd. The Bulldog pitchers issued 11 walks and hit a batter in the contest. "It's hard to evaluate our hitters when the pitchers aren't around the plate on a consistent basis," said Linn. "We were patient and had good at bats but I want to see how we are swinging it." Tallmadge collected just four hits in the game, singles by Linn, Cleary, Matt Boyer, and the home run by Shomo.
Talmadge will travel to Columbus on Saturday to take on Dublin Coffman in a double header with the first pitch slated for Noon.
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Tuesday, March 20
Linder Named to Buckeye Scout News All-Scout Team
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Sunday, March 11
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Devils Show Strengths in Preseason Scrimmages
In two preseaon scrimages the Blue Devils have shown brightly at times and not so brightly at others. "We've done some good things but we can also see where we need to work on some things as well," said head coach Kenny Linn. "Our pitching has been very good and a couple of guys have shown me some good things. We need to continue to work on having quality at bats."
Tallmadge opened the preseason with a win at Cuyahoga Falls and played to a 4-4 tie through seven innings against Hudson on Saturday at Kent State. "We have some offense to replace from last years team and we are trying to find guys who can help us in that area." After missing the entire year last season Zach Cleary may be a guy who can help at the plate and on the mound for the Devils. The left handed Cleary has looked good on the mound and could add to an already strong pitching corp. "He (Cleary) has worked hard to come back from the knee injury and hopefully it will all pay off with a great year."
The Devils will continue its preseason with two more scrimmages before the season opener at Dublin Coffman on March 24th.
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14 Ohioans Named to Rawlings/Perfect Game Preseason All-American List
Linder Receives Honorable Mention Nod
Rawlings and Perfect Game have released their 2012 preseason All-American list and it includes 14 members from the Buckeye State. Rawlings recognizes 400 of the top players in the country from eight different regions and selects 150 to represent the All-American list. The list includes First Team selections Taylore Cherry (Vandalia Butler) and Matt Smoral (Solon). Twelve more Seniors were designated Honorable Mention including Blue Devil right hander Tucker Linder. Linder was named to the Central All-Region Second Team which covers the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North and South Dakota, Wisconsin and Ohio.
Jacob Bosiokovic (Delaware Hayes), Cale Giddings (Pickerington North), Thomas Gulley (Stow), Anthony Kidston (Defiance), Tommy Mirabelli (St. Ed's), Daniel McKinney (Bowling Green), Forrest Perron (Strongsville), Zach Ratcliff (Columbus Academy), Casey Schroeder (Ottawa Glandorf), Brandyn Sittinger (Keystone), and Xavier Turner (Sandusky) round out the list of Ohio honorees.
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Future Devils Enjoy Camp
THS Coaches and Players Host Two Day Camp
Tallmadge, Ohio
The Tallmadge coaches and players teamed up to teach the fundamentals of baseball to area youngsters during a two day indoor camp held at Tallmadge high school. "It was a nice turnout and the campers were working pretty hard at every age group," explained head coach Kenny Linn. Over thirty campers ranging from ages 8-12 took part in the camp. The Blue Devil varsity players served as instructors at various hitting, pitching, and fielding stations.
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Thursday, March 1
Linder Named to ESPNHS All-Ohio List
All-State Baseball: Ohio
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Devils In the Great Outdoors
Tallmadge Able to Get Outdoors for February Workout
Kent, Ohio
The Blue Devils took advantange of an above average February afternoon to get outdoors for their first practice without a ceiling over their head this season. It wasn't until March 17th last season that THS stepped on the grass for 2011. Officially they have yet to step on real grass as the surface at Kent State's Olga Mural Field is of the synthetic variety. With the Golden Flashes taking a day off following a trip to Nashville over the weekend the Blue Devils took full advantage of the available practice time. The coaches directed drills and the practice finished with an intrasquad scrimmage. "It's great to get outside and see live pitching. We got a lot accomplished today," said Linn.
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Baseball, Softball Squads Enjoy Successful Raffle
"Team Seeker" Wins Grand Prize
Brimfield,Ohio
Saturday night family, friends and fans of Tallmadge Baseball and Softball gathered for a reverse raffle to benefit the two Blue Devil programs. Over 200 guests gathered at the VFW Lodge to enjoy a dinner and to see if they would be the lucky winner of the reverse raffle. The last of 150 numbers drawn belonged to a group in attendance refered to as "Team Seeker" a group of members from the Seeker family who combined to purchase the winning ticket. In the end it was the two programs that came out on top. Thanks, to all those workers who helped make the raffle another huge success!
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Cardinals Travel to Kentucky to Face Centre College
Otterbein Sophomore Thomas Linder Looks to Back Up Freshman Campaign
Otterbein University will open the 2012 season with a doubleheader at Centre College in Kentucky on Sunday at Noon. Linder the Cardinals starting left fielder finished his freshman year batting .300 including swinging at a .378 clip in conference play.
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Memorable Ride Continues for Mace
Former Devil Part of Record Setting KSU Season
Ryan Mace begins his senior season for the Golden Flashes and he already has enough jewlery to start his own store. Collecting championship rings in each of his last three seasons Ryan will be part of a pitching rotation that will be counted on heavily to make it four rings in four seasons.
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New Address for THS's Cochran
Former Devil Ace Transfers to Akron
After two seasons at Mercyhurst College in Pennsylvania, Tallmadge native Joe Cochran is now receiving his mail a little closer to home. Cochran played the last two seasons at Division II Mercyhurst where he saw time on the mound and at first base. Following his transfer to Akron this season Cochran will have to sit out the 2012 schedule according to NCAA rules and will have two years of eligibility remaining beginning 2013. Cochran will be coached by former Tallmadge native Rick Rembielak who begins his first year as head coach of the Zips. Also on the Zips roster is shortstop Matt Rembielak the freshman son of the head coach. Matt honed his skills on the little league diamonds of Tallmadge before moving to North Carolina when his dad was named the Wake Forest head coach after a successful stint as the head coach at Kent State.
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Mt. Union Opens March 4th in Florida
Derek Frye Battling for Time at First Base
Freshman Derek Frye will hope to get innings working at firstbase for the Purple Raiders. Mt. Union will travel to Florida for a week of games to open the season beginning March 4th.
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Walsh University Travels to Shawnee State to Open Season
Freshman Andrew Bonnette in Outfield Mix for Cavs
Freshman Andrew Bonnette and the Walsh Cavaliers are hoping to open the 2012 season at Shawnee State in southern Ohio this weekend. The former First Team All-League Blue Devil is in the mix for a spot in the Cav's outfield.
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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Blue Devil Ace Signs With Kent State
Tucker Linder Signs NLI to Play for Golden Flashes
Tallmadge, Ohio
Senior right handed pitcher Tucker Linder signed a National Letter of Intent to continue his career at Kent State University. "I looked at all the offers, visited a lot of places and just felt that the coaches at Kent State could help get me to my ultimate goal of being a big league pitcher," said Linder. Kent State pitching coach Mike Birkbeck has an outstanding track record of getting his pitchers to the next level. Last season alone Kent State saw three pitchers drafted in the top ten rounds of the MLB draft and had another sign a free agent contract. The Golden Flashes defeated #5 Texas in NCAA regional play last season and started 2012 with a win over #9 Georgia Tech last weekend.
Linder had offers from Arizona, Georgia Tech, Kentucky, Ohio State, and Ohio and was fielding visit request from Stanford, Auburn, Virginia, Notre Dame and Louisville among others. "It just was a feeling I had that Kent State and coach Birkbeck was the right place for me and all the other visits weren't going to change that," explained the right hander.
In 2011 Linder compiled a 7-1 mark with a 0.95 ERA with 70 strikeouts in 52 innings of work. He was named 2nd Team All-Ohio. This past summer he was selected to participate in the East Coast Pro Scout Showcase in Florida and was invited to the USA Baseball Tournament of Stars Olympic tryout. The righthander is 17-5 in three seasons for the Devils with two no-hitters including a perfect game in 2010. He enters the 2012 campaign with 159 strikeouts in 132 innings and has opponents batting just .189 against him over three seasons.
While the pressure of choosing a college is over Linder is now fielding in home visit requests from MLB scouts who will be evaluating him for the 2012 June draft. To date, 17 teams have shown interest in the righthander. "The Cardinals and Twins guys have visited and it's pretty cool to think about, but right now I want to concentrate on doing everything I can to help us have a great season. I'm really looking forward to my senior year. I think we can be a pretty good team and we want to go even farther into the post season than we did last year." The Blue Devils return 10 letterwinners from last years 18-6 District Championship squad. Tallmadge will open the season March 24th in Columbus with a doubleheader at Dublin Coffman.
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First Week of Practice Begins
Evaluations and Indoor Work Begins for Blue Devils
Tallmadge, Ohio
There was no Arizona sun or Florida humidity. It was mostly leather meeting metal instead of wood and there wasn't a free agent in sight, but it was still the first practice of the year as the Tallmadge Blue Devils opened the 2012 baseball season. Head coach Kenny Linn begins his ninth season and was recently honored at the Ohio Baseball Coaches Association Convention with recognition for his 200th career win. As the Blue Devil mentor Linn owns an impressive 157-60 record that includes four Coach of the Year awards. "It's always a great feeling to just get that first day of practice going," said Linn.
Tallmadge welcomed 10 freshmen and return 10 letterwinners as they open defense of their 2011 District Championship. The loss of seniors Andrew Bonnette, Thomas Hobson, Jamie Lowery and Derek Frye will leave the Devils with some holes to fill. The four seniors combined for 69 runs scored and contributed 75 RBI's to the Blue Devil offense. Hobson is a member of the Pitt-Bradford baseball team, while classmates Bonnette (Walsh University) and Frye (Mt. Union) all look forward to getting their seasons underway this weekend. The cupboards are hardly bare for Tallmadge as All-League performers Tucker Linder, Matt Shomo and Kody Edwards return along with starters Danny Blake, Cordt Skraba, and Matt Boyer.
The Blue Devils open the season March 24th in Columbus in a doubleheader against Dublin Coffman
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THS Alum Open Season at Southern Indiana
Lake Erie College's Brian and Patrick Kilway, Garrett Emling Hit the Road
Lake Erie College will open the 2012 season with a three game series at Southern Indiana. Blue Devil alums Patrick Kilway,Brian Kilway and Garrett Emling will be a big part of the Storm's 2012 success.
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Pitt-Bradford Opens Sunday
Freshman Thomas Hobson to Work in Bullpen
The Panthers of Pitt-Bradford will open the 2012 season on Sunday and former Blue Devil Thomas Hobson will begin his career as a member of the Bullpen.
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