Miners
Miners
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Jon Tapper
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Miners post win
Box Score
The Automated ScoreBook
Gateway Grizzlies at SI Miners
May 29, 2008 at Marion,Il (Rent One Park)
Gateway Grizzlies 4 (1-8)
Player AB R H RBI BB SO PO A LOB
------------------------------------------------------
Malone,R 2b.............. 4 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 0
Vincent,J lf............. 5 1 2 0 0 1 2 0 0
Campbell,M cf............ 3 0 0 1 1 0 3 0 1
Lisk,C c................. 5 0 0 0 0 0 9 1 1
Holdren,S rf............. 2 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0
Breyman,M 1b............. 3 0 1 1 1 1 7 1 0
Owens,R 3b............... 4 0 0 0 0 3 0 2 5
Barbato,A dh............. 2 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 0
Minor,R ss............... 3 1 1 1 0 0 2 2 2
Blacksher,D p............ 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Mavroulis,C p........... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Romero Jr,R p........... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Totals................... 31 4 7 3 6 8 24 8 9
SI Miners 11 (5-4)
Player AB R H RBI BB SO PO A LOB
------------------------------------------------------
Roth,T 2b................ 4 2 1 0 1 0 1 2 3
Suttle,E cf.............. 2 2 2 0 2 0 5 0 0
Jones,B 3b............... 4 1 3 3 0 1 1 1 0
Arnett,B 3b............. 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
Metropoulous 1b.......... 4 1 0 0 1 2 9 1 0
Keene,W lf............... 5 1 1 1 0 2 0 0 3
Dorn,T dh................ 4 1 1 2 1 1 0 0 0
Farkes,J rf.............. 5 1 3 3 0 2 0 0 1
Smith,J c................ 4 0 0 0 0 1 8 0 1
Scanzano,M ss............ 3 1 2 1 1 0 3 5 0
Little,C p............... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Dixon,C p............... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Totals................... 36 11 14 10 6 9 27 10 8
Score by Innings R H E
-------------------------------------------
Gateway Grizzlies... 110 000 002 - 4 7 0
SI Miners........... 105 110 12X - 11 14 0
-------------------------------------------
DP - Miners 2. LOB - Grizzlies 9; Miners 8. 2B - Jones,B; Farkes,J;
Scanzano,M. 3B - Barbato,A; Roth,T; Suttle,E; Farkes,J. HR - Keene,W. HBP -
Holdren,S; Minor,R. SH - Suttle,E. SF - Campbell,M. SB - Vincent,J.
Gateway Grizzlies IP H R ER BB SO AB BF
-----------------------------------------------
Blacksher,D......... 4.0 7 7 7 4 5 18 23
Mavroulis,C......... 3.0 4 2 2 2 2 12 14
Romero Jr,R......... 1.0 3 2 2 0 2 6 6
SI Miners IP H R ER BB SO AB BF
-----------------------------------------------
Little,C............ 7.0 4 2 2 5 6 23 30
Dixon,C............. 2.0 3 2 2 1 2 8 10
Win - Little,C (1-0). Loss - Blacksher,D (0-2). Save - None.
WP - Blacksher,D; Little,C. HBP - by Little,C (Holdren,S); by Little,C
(Minor,R). PB - Lisk,C.
Umpires - HP: Shea Walker 1B: Matt Hughes 2B: Steve Dunahue
Start: 7:11 Time: 3:10 Attendance: 4079
Game: SIL05290
The Automated ScoreBook
Gateway Grizzlies at SI Miners
May 29, 2008 at Marion,Il (Rent One Park)
Gateway Grizzlies 4 (1-8)
Player AB R H RBI BB SO PO A LOB
------------------------------------------------------
Malone,R 2b.............. 4 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 0
Vincent,J lf............. 5 1 2 0 0 1 2 0 0
Campbell,M cf............ 3 0 0 1 1 0 3 0 1
Lisk,C c................. 5 0 0 0 0 0 9 1 1
Holdren,S rf............. 2 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0
Breyman,M 1b............. 3 0 1 1 1 1 7 1 0
Owens,R 3b............... 4 0 0 0 0 3 0 2 5
Barbato,A dh............. 2 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 0
Minor,R ss............... 3 1 1 1 0 0 2 2 2
Blacksher,D p............ 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Mavroulis,C p........... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Romero Jr,R p........... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Totals................... 31 4 7 3 6 8 24 8 9
SI Miners 11 (5-4)
Player AB R H RBI BB SO PO A LOB
------------------------------------------------------
Roth,T 2b................ 4 2 1 0 1 0 1 2 3
Suttle,E cf.............. 2 2 2 0 2 0 5 0 0
Jones,B 3b............... 4 1 3 3 0 1 1 1 0
Arnett,B 3b............. 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
Metropoulous 1b.......... 4 1 0 0 1 2 9 1 0
Keene,W lf............... 5 1 1 1 0 2 0 0 3
Dorn,T dh................ 4 1 1 2 1 1 0 0 0
Farkes,J rf.............. 5 1 3 3 0 2 0 0 1
Smith,J c................ 4 0 0 0 0 1 8 0 1
Scanzano,M ss............ 3 1 2 1 1 0 3 5 0
Little,C p............... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Dixon,C p............... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Totals................... 36 11 14 10 6 9 27 10 8
Score by Innings R H E
-------------------------------------------
Gateway Grizzlies... 110 000 002 - 4 7 0
SI Miners........... 105 110 12X - 11 14 0
-------------------------------------------
DP - Miners 2. LOB - Grizzlies 9; Miners 8. 2B - Jones,B; Farkes,J;
Scanzano,M. 3B - Barbato,A; Roth,T; Suttle,E; Farkes,J. HR - Keene,W. HBP -
Holdren,S; Minor,R. SH - Suttle,E. SF - Campbell,M. SB - Vincent,J.
Gateway Grizzlies IP H R ER BB SO AB BF
-----------------------------------------------
Blacksher,D......... 4.0 7 7 7 4 5 18 23
Mavroulis,C......... 3.0 4 2 2 2 2 12 14
Romero Jr,R......... 1.0 3 2 2 0 2 6 6
SI Miners IP H R ER BB SO AB BF
-----------------------------------------------
Little,C............ 7.0 4 2 2 5 6 23 30
Dixon,C............. 2.0 3 2 2 1 2 8 10
Win - Little,C (1-0). Loss - Blacksher,D (0-2). Save - None.
WP - Blacksher,D; Little,C. HBP - by Little,C (Holdren,S); by Little,C
(Minor,R). PB - Lisk,C.
Umpires - HP: Shea Walker 1B: Matt Hughes 2B: Steve Dunahue
Start: 7:11 Time: 3:10 Attendance: 4079
Game: SIL05290
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Southern Illinois at Gateway Grizzlies
The Automated ScoreBook
Southern Illinois at Gateway Grizzlies - Play-by-Play
May 21, 2008 at Sauget, IL (GCS Ballpark)
Score by Innings R H E
-------------------------------------------
Southern Illinois... 010 090 002 - 12 13 2
Gateway Grizzlies... 222 020 001 - 9 13 2
-------------------------------------------
Southern Illinois starters: 1/cf Koski; 14/2b Roth; 35/1b Dorn; 31/dh Metropolous; 21/3b Jones; 25/lf
Keene; 12/rf Suttles; 6/c Smith; 10/ss Scanzano; 38/p Roark;
Gateway Grizzlies starters: 4/2b Malone; 9/3b Saltzgaber; 7/cf Campbell; 33/1b Breyman; 24/rf Holdren;
15/lf Paula; 41/dh Vincent; 21/c Lisk; 3/ss Minor; 2/p Dessau;
Southern Illinois 1st - Koski flied out to cf (0-0). Roth grounded out to 1b unassisted (1-2). Dorn lined
out to 2b (2-2). 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 1st - Malone grounded out to 1b unassisted (1-2). Saltzgaber hit by pitch (2-2). Campbell
homered to right center, 2 RBI (0-0); Saltzgaber scored. Breyman walked (3-2). Holdren struck out
swinging (1-2). Paula flied out to 3b (2-2). 2 runs, 1 hit, 0 errors, 1 LOB.
Southern Illinois 2nd - Barbato to lf for Saltzgaber. Paula to 3b. Metropolous homered to left field, RBI
(3-2). Jones singled to left field (1-2). Keene flied out to 1b (0-1). Suttles lined into double play 2b
unassisted (1-1); Jones out on the play. 1 run, 2 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 2nd - Vincent singled to right field (1-2). Lisk reached on an error by 3b (1-1); Vincent
advanced to second. Minor grounded out to p, SAC (0-1); Lisk advanced to second; Vincent advanced to
third. Malone flied out to cf, SF, RBI (3-2); Lisk advanced to third; Vincent scored, unearned. Barbato
walked (3-2). Campbell singled to right field, RBI (2-2); Barbato advanced to second, advanced to third
on an error by rf, out at home rf to 2b to c; Lisk scored, unearned. 2 runs, 2 hits, 2 errors, 1 LOB.
Southern Illinois 3rd - Smith singled to left field (1-0). Scanzano struck out swinging (1-2). Koski out at
first 1b to p (2-0); Smith advanced to second. Roth grounded out to 2b (3-2). 0 runs, 1 hit, 0 errors, 1
LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 3rd - Breyman struck out swinging (1-2). Holdren struck out swinging (1-2). Paula doubled
to left center (1-2). Vincent singled to center field, RBI (1-2); Paula scored. Lisk singled to center
field (2-1); Vincent advanced to third. Minor singled to left field, RBI (0-0); Lisk advanced to second;
Vincent scored. Malone struck out looking (1-2). 2 runs, 4 hits, 0 errors, 2 LOB.
Southern Illinois 4th - Dorn grounded out to ss (2-1). Metropolous struck out swinging (3-2). Jones lined
out to 1b (0-1). 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 4th - Arnett to lf for Koski. Keene to rf for Arnett. Suttles to cf. Arnett to lf for
Keene. McKenzie to p for Roark. Barbato struck out looking (1-2). Campbell grounded out to 2b (3-2).
Breyman grounded out to 2b (1-0). 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Southern Illinois 5th - Arnett to lf for Metropolous. Keene to dh for Arnett. Keene singled to center field
(3-2). Suttles doubled to left field (0-1); Keene advanced to third. Smith walked (3-2). Scanzano reached
on a fielder's choice, RBI (3-2); Smith advanced to second on an error by 2b; Suttles advanced to third;
Keene scored. Arnett to cf for Koski. Metropolous to lf for Arnett. Arnett homered to left field, 4 RBI
(2-1); Scanzano scored; Smith scored, unearned; Suttles scored. Herman to p for Dessau. Roth hit by pitch
(0-1). Dorn walked (3-0); Roth advanced to second. Metropolous singled to left field, RBI (0-0); Dorn
advanced to second; Roth scored. Jones singled to third base (1-0); Metropolous advanced to second; Dorn
advanced to third. Arnett to lf. Metropolous to dh. Keene to rf. Suttles to cf. Jones advanced to second;
Metropolous advanced to third; Dorn scored on a wild pitch. Keene flied out to 2b (1-2). Suttles flied
out to rf, SF, RBI (2-2); Jones advanced to third; Metropolous scored. Smith doubled to right field, RBI
(1-0); Jones scored. Scanzano grounded out to 3b. 9 runs, 6 hits, 1 error, 1 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 5th - Holdren struck out swinging (2-2). Paula lined out to 3b (2-2). Vincent singled to
center field (2-2). Lisk homered to left field, 2 RBI (1-1); Vincent scored. Minor flied out to c (0-0).
2 runs, 2 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Southern Illinois 6th - Santerre to p for Herman. Arnett flied out to rf (2-1). Roth walked (3-1). Roth
advanced to second on an error by c, advanced to third. Dorn out at first p to ss to 1b (2-1).
Metropolous grounded out to 2b (0-0). 0 runs, 0 hits, 1 error, 1 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 6th - Malone flied out to ss (2-2). Barbato doubled to right center (1-1). Barbato
advanced to third on a wild pitch. Campbell flied out to 1b (2-2). Breyman lined out to 1b (2-2). 0 runs,
1 hit, 0 errors, 1 LOB.
Southern Illinois 7th - Jones lined out to 2b (1-0). Keene grounded out to ss (2-1). Suttles walked (3-1).
Smith singled to left field (2-2); Suttles advanced to second. Scanzano struck out looking (1-2). 0 runs,
1 hit, 0 errors, 2 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 7th - Bailey to p for McKenzie. Holdren singled to right field (0-0). Paula hit into
double play 3b to 2b to 1b (2-2); Holdren out on the play. Vincent flied out to lf (1-0). 0 runs, 1 hit,
0 errors, 0 LOB.
Southern Illinois 8th - Merricks to p for Santerre. Arnett struck out swinging (1-2). Roth grounded out to
The Automated ScoreBook
Southern Illinois at Gateway Grizzlies - Play-by-Play
May 21, 2008 at Sauget, IL (GCS Ballpark)
2b (2-2). Dorn struck out swinging (0-2). 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 8th - Zavada to p for Bailey. Lisk struck out swinging (2-2). Minor struck out swinging
(2-2). Malone struck out swinging, out at first c to 1b (1-2). 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Southern Illinois 9th - Metropolous struck out swinging (2-2). Jones singled to center field (0-2). Keene
homered to right center, 2 RBI (1-2); Jones scored. Suttles walked (3-0). Smith singled to right center
(0-1); Suttles advanced to third. Scanzano struck out looking (1-2). Arnett flied out to rf (1-2). 2
runs, 3 hits, 0 errors, 2 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 9th - Farkes to rf for Keene. Milner to c for Smith. McMurran to p for Zavada. Barbato
singled to right field (3-1). Campbell doubled to right field (0-1); Barbato advanced to third. Breyman
struck out swinging (2-2). Holdren grounded out to 2b, RBI (0-1); Campbell advanced to third; Barbato
scored. Hope to p for McMurran. Paula flied out to cf (2-1). 1 run, 2 hits, 0 errors, 1 LOB.
Southern Illinois at Gateway Grizzlies - Play-by-Play
May 21, 2008 at Sauget, IL (GCS Ballpark)
Score by Innings R H E
-------------------------------------------
Southern Illinois... 010 090 002 - 12 13 2
Gateway Grizzlies... 222 020 001 - 9 13 2
-------------------------------------------
Southern Illinois starters: 1/cf Koski; 14/2b Roth; 35/1b Dorn; 31/dh Metropolous; 21/3b Jones; 25/lf
Keene; 12/rf Suttles; 6/c Smith; 10/ss Scanzano; 38/p Roark;
Gateway Grizzlies starters: 4/2b Malone; 9/3b Saltzgaber; 7/cf Campbell; 33/1b Breyman; 24/rf Holdren;
15/lf Paula; 41/dh Vincent; 21/c Lisk; 3/ss Minor; 2/p Dessau;
Southern Illinois 1st - Koski flied out to cf (0-0). Roth grounded out to 1b unassisted (1-2). Dorn lined
out to 2b (2-2). 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 1st - Malone grounded out to 1b unassisted (1-2). Saltzgaber hit by pitch (2-2). Campbell
homered to right center, 2 RBI (0-0); Saltzgaber scored. Breyman walked (3-2). Holdren struck out
swinging (1-2). Paula flied out to 3b (2-2). 2 runs, 1 hit, 0 errors, 1 LOB.
Southern Illinois 2nd - Barbato to lf for Saltzgaber. Paula to 3b. Metropolous homered to left field, RBI
(3-2). Jones singled to left field (1-2). Keene flied out to 1b (0-1). Suttles lined into double play 2b
unassisted (1-1); Jones out on the play. 1 run, 2 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 2nd - Vincent singled to right field (1-2). Lisk reached on an error by 3b (1-1); Vincent
advanced to second. Minor grounded out to p, SAC (0-1); Lisk advanced to second; Vincent advanced to
third. Malone flied out to cf, SF, RBI (3-2); Lisk advanced to third; Vincent scored, unearned. Barbato
walked (3-2). Campbell singled to right field, RBI (2-2); Barbato advanced to second, advanced to third
on an error by rf, out at home rf to 2b to c; Lisk scored, unearned. 2 runs, 2 hits, 2 errors, 1 LOB.
Southern Illinois 3rd - Smith singled to left field (1-0). Scanzano struck out swinging (1-2). Koski out at
first 1b to p (2-0); Smith advanced to second. Roth grounded out to 2b (3-2). 0 runs, 1 hit, 0 errors, 1
LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 3rd - Breyman struck out swinging (1-2). Holdren struck out swinging (1-2). Paula doubled
to left center (1-2). Vincent singled to center field, RBI (1-2); Paula scored. Lisk singled to center
field (2-1); Vincent advanced to third. Minor singled to left field, RBI (0-0); Lisk advanced to second;
Vincent scored. Malone struck out looking (1-2). 2 runs, 4 hits, 0 errors, 2 LOB.
Southern Illinois 4th - Dorn grounded out to ss (2-1). Metropolous struck out swinging (3-2). Jones lined
out to 1b (0-1). 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 4th - Arnett to lf for Koski. Keene to rf for Arnett. Suttles to cf. Arnett to lf for
Keene. McKenzie to p for Roark. Barbato struck out looking (1-2). Campbell grounded out to 2b (3-2).
Breyman grounded out to 2b (1-0). 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Southern Illinois 5th - Arnett to lf for Metropolous. Keene to dh for Arnett. Keene singled to center field
(3-2). Suttles doubled to left field (0-1); Keene advanced to third. Smith walked (3-2). Scanzano reached
on a fielder's choice, RBI (3-2); Smith advanced to second on an error by 2b; Suttles advanced to third;
Keene scored. Arnett to cf for Koski. Metropolous to lf for Arnett. Arnett homered to left field, 4 RBI
(2-1); Scanzano scored; Smith scored, unearned; Suttles scored. Herman to p for Dessau. Roth hit by pitch
(0-1). Dorn walked (3-0); Roth advanced to second. Metropolous singled to left field, RBI (0-0); Dorn
advanced to second; Roth scored. Jones singled to third base (1-0); Metropolous advanced to second; Dorn
advanced to third. Arnett to lf. Metropolous to dh. Keene to rf. Suttles to cf. Jones advanced to second;
Metropolous advanced to third; Dorn scored on a wild pitch. Keene flied out to 2b (1-2). Suttles flied
out to rf, SF, RBI (2-2); Jones advanced to third; Metropolous scored. Smith doubled to right field, RBI
(1-0); Jones scored. Scanzano grounded out to 3b. 9 runs, 6 hits, 1 error, 1 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 5th - Holdren struck out swinging (2-2). Paula lined out to 3b (2-2). Vincent singled to
center field (2-2). Lisk homered to left field, 2 RBI (1-1); Vincent scored. Minor flied out to c (0-0).
2 runs, 2 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Southern Illinois 6th - Santerre to p for Herman. Arnett flied out to rf (2-1). Roth walked (3-1). Roth
advanced to second on an error by c, advanced to third. Dorn out at first p to ss to 1b (2-1).
Metropolous grounded out to 2b (0-0). 0 runs, 0 hits, 1 error, 1 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 6th - Malone flied out to ss (2-2). Barbato doubled to right center (1-1). Barbato
advanced to third on a wild pitch. Campbell flied out to 1b (2-2). Breyman lined out to 1b (2-2). 0 runs,
1 hit, 0 errors, 1 LOB.
Southern Illinois 7th - Jones lined out to 2b (1-0). Keene grounded out to ss (2-1). Suttles walked (3-1).
Smith singled to left field (2-2); Suttles advanced to second. Scanzano struck out looking (1-2). 0 runs,
1 hit, 0 errors, 2 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 7th - Bailey to p for McKenzie. Holdren singled to right field (0-0). Paula hit into
double play 3b to 2b to 1b (2-2); Holdren out on the play. Vincent flied out to lf (1-0). 0 runs, 1 hit,
0 errors, 0 LOB.
Southern Illinois 8th - Merricks to p for Santerre. Arnett struck out swinging (1-2). Roth grounded out to
The Automated ScoreBook
Southern Illinois at Gateway Grizzlies - Play-by-Play
May 21, 2008 at Sauget, IL (GCS Ballpark)
2b (2-2). Dorn struck out swinging (0-2). 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 8th - Zavada to p for Bailey. Lisk struck out swinging (2-2). Minor struck out swinging
(2-2). Malone struck out swinging, out at first c to 1b (1-2). 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 errors, 0 LOB.
Southern Illinois 9th - Metropolous struck out swinging (2-2). Jones singled to center field (0-2). Keene
homered to right center, 2 RBI (1-2); Jones scored. Suttles walked (3-0). Smith singled to right center
(0-1); Suttles advanced to third. Scanzano struck out looking (1-2). Arnett flied out to rf (1-2). 2
runs, 3 hits, 0 errors, 2 LOB.
Gateway Grizzlies 9th - Farkes to rf for Keene. Milner to c for Smith. McMurran to p for Zavada. Barbato
singled to right field (3-1). Campbell doubled to right field (0-1); Barbato advanced to third. Breyman
struck out swinging (2-2). Holdren grounded out to 2b, RBI (0-1); Campbell advanced to third; Barbato
scored. Hope to p for McMurran. Paula flied out to cf (2-1). 1 run, 2 hits, 0 errors, 1 LOB.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Miners top Railcats to win opener
BY D.W. NORRIS, For the Southern
MARION - Southern Illinois manager Mike Pinto said he wanted to see how his pitching staff would react to live batters in Saturday's exhibition game with the Gary South Shore Railcats.
He got his answer as seven Miners (1-0) combined to twirl a one-hitter in a 1-0 victory over the Railcats before 1,287 fans at Rent One Park.
Third baseman Brandon Jones drove in shortstop Mike Scanzano for the game-winning run on a fielder's choice in the third inning.
But obviously, the night's storyline was pitching and defense.
The Miners retired the Railcats' final 16 batters and held them hitless after the second inning. None of the Railcats five base runners advanced past second. Only starter Ryan Quigley allowed a hit.
"I saw a lot of good things (out of my pitchers)," Pinto said. "(Jake) McMurran, I liked the way the ball came out of his hand. Brian Blomquist did a very good job. He had a high percentage of first-pitch strikes. I want to say he was near 80 percent."
Blomquist (1-0) had arguably the most effective night in the "Johnny Wholestaff" win, striking out three in two innings. He also started the Railcats' hitless streak.
McMurran tossed a 1-2-3 eighth inning and Griffin Bailey nailed down the win in the ninth.
The guys behind and in front of the pitchers did their jobs, too. The Miners' defense was rock solid up the middle in the win.
"The guys did a good job. We made a lot of nice plays," Pinto said. "The two double plays early on, (catcher) Jake Smith throwing two guys out at second base really showed me something."
All three plays came in the game's first three frames and all three ended what could have turned into big innings for the Railcats (3-1).
"Certainly the pitching staff and the defense of the Miners tonight were sensational," Railcats manager Greg Tagert said.
Scanzano and second baseman Tony Roth turned double plays that ended both the first and second innings with runners on first and second base. Miners first base coach Ralph Santana and Scanzano were the Frontier League's most electrifying double-play combination last season.
Scanzano said he didn't miss a beat with Roth as his pivot man.
"He's great," Scanzano said. "He gets rid of it quick and he did a great job tonight for us."
Smith had a twin killing of his own in the third after lefty George Biddle walked back-to-back batters. Smith easily gunned down Railcats leadoff hitter Mike Reese and right fielder John McCarthy.
"Oh man, he's got a cannon," Scanzano said. "I was definitely impressed. He threw out some quick runners ? he's got a plus-plus arm."
Aside from his defense, Scanzano provided the spark in the Miners' run-scoring third inning with the best at-bat of the night. Scanzano battled back from a 1-2 hole to run the count full. He fouled off a handful of pitches before slicing a leadoff single to right field.
Centerfielder Kevin Koski followed with an infield single. Roth advanced both runners with a sacrifice bunt to the right side of the infield to set the stage for Jones' RBI.
First baseman Tim Dorn paced the Miners with a pair of hard-hit singles in his two at-bats.
"It's early, but I'm going to take it as a good thing," Dorn said. "I'm striking the ball well and I just want to keep it rolling day by day."
Left fielder Eric Suttle provided Southern Illinois with its only other hit and designated hitter Joey Metropolous drew a walk. Quigley walked two and hit a batter in his two-inning start. Nick Tisone allowed a walk in the fourth inning.
Up next for the Miners is a pair of exhibition games Monday with host Schaumburg Flyers and the Windy City Thunderbolts, the defending Frontier League champions
MARION - Southern Illinois manager Mike Pinto said he wanted to see how his pitching staff would react to live batters in Saturday's exhibition game with the Gary South Shore Railcats.
He got his answer as seven Miners (1-0) combined to twirl a one-hitter in a 1-0 victory over the Railcats before 1,287 fans at Rent One Park.
Third baseman Brandon Jones drove in shortstop Mike Scanzano for the game-winning run on a fielder's choice in the third inning.
But obviously, the night's storyline was pitching and defense.
The Miners retired the Railcats' final 16 batters and held them hitless after the second inning. None of the Railcats five base runners advanced past second. Only starter Ryan Quigley allowed a hit.
"I saw a lot of good things (out of my pitchers)," Pinto said. "(Jake) McMurran, I liked the way the ball came out of his hand. Brian Blomquist did a very good job. He had a high percentage of first-pitch strikes. I want to say he was near 80 percent."
Blomquist (1-0) had arguably the most effective night in the "Johnny Wholestaff" win, striking out three in two innings. He also started the Railcats' hitless streak.
McMurran tossed a 1-2-3 eighth inning and Griffin Bailey nailed down the win in the ninth.
The guys behind and in front of the pitchers did their jobs, too. The Miners' defense was rock solid up the middle in the win.
"The guys did a good job. We made a lot of nice plays," Pinto said. "The two double plays early on, (catcher) Jake Smith throwing two guys out at second base really showed me something."
All three plays came in the game's first three frames and all three ended what could have turned into big innings for the Railcats (3-1).
"Certainly the pitching staff and the defense of the Miners tonight were sensational," Railcats manager Greg Tagert said.
Scanzano and second baseman Tony Roth turned double plays that ended both the first and second innings with runners on first and second base. Miners first base coach Ralph Santana and Scanzano were the Frontier League's most electrifying double-play combination last season.
Scanzano said he didn't miss a beat with Roth as his pivot man.
"He's great," Scanzano said. "He gets rid of it quick and he did a great job tonight for us."
Smith had a twin killing of his own in the third after lefty George Biddle walked back-to-back batters. Smith easily gunned down Railcats leadoff hitter Mike Reese and right fielder John McCarthy.
"Oh man, he's got a cannon," Scanzano said. "I was definitely impressed. He threw out some quick runners ? he's got a plus-plus arm."
Aside from his defense, Scanzano provided the spark in the Miners' run-scoring third inning with the best at-bat of the night. Scanzano battled back from a 1-2 hole to run the count full. He fouled off a handful of pitches before slicing a leadoff single to right field.
Centerfielder Kevin Koski followed with an infield single. Roth advanced both runners with a sacrifice bunt to the right side of the infield to set the stage for Jones' RBI.
First baseman Tim Dorn paced the Miners with a pair of hard-hit singles in his two at-bats.
"It's early, but I'm going to take it as a good thing," Dorn said. "I'm striking the ball well and I just want to keep it rolling day by day."
Left fielder Eric Suttle provided Southern Illinois with its only other hit and designated hitter Joey Metropolous drew a walk. Quigley walked two and hit a batter in his two-inning start. Nick Tisone allowed a walk in the fourth inning.
Up next for the Miners is a pair of exhibition games Monday with host Schaumburg Flyers and the Windy City Thunderbolts, the defending Frontier League champions
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
INDIVIDUAL GAME TICKETS AVAILABLE SATURDAY
MARION, Ill. – Fans can purchase tickets for individual Southern Illinois Miners home games at Rent One Park starting Saturday, May 3 at 10 a.m. Tickets will be available at the Rent One Park box office as well as the Miners website, www.southernillinoisminers.com. ; The box office will be open until 4 p.m.
“Saturday will be an exciting day for us and our fans,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “I recommend that fans looking to buy Opening Day tickets get here early because I anticipate that game selling out pretty quickly.”
Tickets will be $8 for box seats, $6 for reserved seats and $4 for general admission and lawn seats. The Golden Corral Fun Zone will also open at 10 a.m. Saturday, and the first 100 fans will receive a free hot dog.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
“Saturday will be an exciting day for us and our fans,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “I recommend that fans looking to buy Opening Day tickets get here early because I anticipate that game selling out pretty quickly.”
Tickets will be $8 for box seats, $6 for reserved seats and $4 for general admission and lawn seats. The Golden Corral Fun Zone will also open at 10 a.m. Saturday, and the first 100 fans will receive a free hot dog.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
MINERS ANNOUNCE WEBCASTS FOR ALL 2008 GAMES
MARION, Ill. – Thanks to a deal with Interactive Broadcast Network Sports (iBN Sports), Southern Illinois Miners fans will be able to watch and listen to all 96 Miners games live over the Internet this season. IBN Sports is a premiere Internet-based broadcast sports television network and will broadcast all Miners home and road games over the iBN Sports Baseball Channel (www.ibnsports.com). ;
“This partnership will be great for the organization and our fans,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “Not only will it be great for Miners fans who can’t make it out to every single game, but the exposure will help our players too.”
The Miners are the first team in the Frontier League to have video webcasts available for all of its games. The webcasts will feature live video from the game along with the voice of Miners radio play-by-play announcer Scott Gierman.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
“This partnership will be great for the organization and our fans,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “Not only will it be great for Miners fans who can’t make it out to every single game, but the exposure will help our players too.”
The Miners are the first team in the Frontier League to have video webcasts available for all of its games. The webcasts will feature live video from the game along with the voice of Miners radio play-by-play announcer Scott Gierman.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Thursday, April 17, 2008
KEENE, SUTTLE SET TO RETURN
MARION, Ill. – The Southern Illinois Miners are announcing the return of outfielders Eric Suttle and Willie Keene for the 2008 season. Both players were members of the Miners 2007 inaugural team.
In 57 games Keene hit .263 with 12 doubles, three triples and four home runs. He drove in 31 runs. He was hitting over .300 as late as Aug. 5 but recorded just four hits in his final 14 games.
“Willie and Eric both did a nice job for us last season,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “Willie hit a wall late in the season after a full college and pro season, and I know he has worked hard to get ready for a full pro season this year. He adds plus power to the outfield mix.”
Suttle played in 56 games, hitting .252 with 10 doubles, two home runs with 18 RBI. The strong-armed outfielder recorded five assists.
“Eric was hitting near .300 before running into the right field wall,” Pinto said, “which really affected him the last few weeks of the season. He runs well, plays excellent defense and adds some speed to our outfield mix.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
In 57 games Keene hit .263 with 12 doubles, three triples and four home runs. He drove in 31 runs. He was hitting over .300 as late as Aug. 5 but recorded just four hits in his final 14 games.
“Willie and Eric both did a nice job for us last season,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “Willie hit a wall late in the season after a full college and pro season, and I know he has worked hard to get ready for a full pro season this year. He adds plus power to the outfield mix.”
Suttle played in 56 games, hitting .252 with 10 doubles, two home runs with 18 RBI. The strong-armed outfielder recorded five assists.
“Eric was hitting near .300 before running into the right field wall,” Pinto said, “which really affected him the last few weeks of the season. He runs well, plays excellent defense and adds some speed to our outfield mix.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Frontier League Tryout Camp And Draft to be held at Rent One Park
On Sunday, May 4th and Monday, May 5th, the Frontier League will host its annual Tryout Camp and Draft at Rent One Park in Marion, IL. The Southern Illinois Miners, the League’s newest member, will serve as the host team.
“We are ecstatic to be partnering with the Miners to host this event,” Commissioner Bill Lee said. “They are a first class organization and they have a first class facility.”
The Tryout Camp and Draft is open to all baseball players who were 27 years old (or younger) on January 1, 2008 and over the age of 18.
“This is the best way for aspiring players to make a Frontier League roster,” Lee said. “All twelve teams will be represented. Each club will draft at least two players to take to spring training.”
Players interested in trying out can register online at www.frontierleague.com/tryouts.php Registration will also be available in person at 8am on Sunday, March 4th at Rent One Park. For more information, contact Kevin Rouch at the Frontier League office via e-mail at krouch@frontierleague.com or telephone at (614) 203-7911.
“We are ecstatic to be partnering with the Miners to host this event,” Commissioner Bill Lee said. “They are a first class organization and they have a first class facility.”
The Tryout Camp and Draft is open to all baseball players who were 27 years old (or younger) on January 1, 2008 and over the age of 18.
“This is the best way for aspiring players to make a Frontier League roster,” Lee said. “All twelve teams will be represented. Each club will draft at least two players to take to spring training.”
Players interested in trying out can register online at www.frontierleague.com/tryouts.php Registration will also be available in person at 8am on Sunday, March 4th at Rent One Park. For more information, contact Kevin Rouch at the Frontier League office via e-mail at krouch@frontierleague.com or telephone at (614) 203-7911.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
MINERS INK BIDDLE FOR '08 SEASON
MARION, Ill. – The Southern Illinois Miners have signed right-handed pitcher George Biddle for the 2008 season. Biddle spent the 2007 season with the Kansas City Royals organization.
Biddle, 23, split time between three teams in the Royals system in 2007 reaching as high as the Burlington (Iowa) Bees of the Midwest League. Overall, he posted a 3-4 record with a 4.55 ERA in 14 games, four of them starts. He struck out 25 batters in 31.2 innings.
“George is a command pitcher who will work with his sinker in the upper 80s to low 90s,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He is efficient on the mound, controls the strike zone and keeps the ball on the ground. We see him as a guy in the rotation for us.”
Biddle finished his impressive college career at Eastern Michigan University ranking second all-time in EMU history with 327.1 innings pitched, sixth all-time with 20 wins and 10th all-time with 172 strikeouts. In 2007, he made 15 appearances and put together an 8-4 record (7-1 conference) and a team best 2.42 ERA. He was also a first team All-Mid-American Conference selection as he finished the season ranked second in the MAC in ERA (2.25), wins (7) and shutouts (2) and ranked third in games started (13) and complete games (2).
Following his 2006 college season, Biddle pitched for the Edenton (N.C.) Steamers of the Coastal Plain League along with current Miners teammate Ben Norton. For Edenton he carried a 1.85 ERA, striking out 33 and walking 18 over 43 innings. Opposing hitters hit .238 against him. He and Norton helped lead the Steamers to a Division Championship.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Biddle, 23, split time between three teams in the Royals system in 2007 reaching as high as the Burlington (Iowa) Bees of the Midwest League. Overall, he posted a 3-4 record with a 4.55 ERA in 14 games, four of them starts. He struck out 25 batters in 31.2 innings.
“George is a command pitcher who will work with his sinker in the upper 80s to low 90s,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He is efficient on the mound, controls the strike zone and keeps the ball on the ground. We see him as a guy in the rotation for us.”
Biddle finished his impressive college career at Eastern Michigan University ranking second all-time in EMU history with 327.1 innings pitched, sixth all-time with 20 wins and 10th all-time with 172 strikeouts. In 2007, he made 15 appearances and put together an 8-4 record (7-1 conference) and a team best 2.42 ERA. He was also a first team All-Mid-American Conference selection as he finished the season ranked second in the MAC in ERA (2.25), wins (7) and shutouts (2) and ranked third in games started (13) and complete games (2).
Following his 2006 college season, Biddle pitched for the Edenton (N.C.) Steamers of the Coastal Plain League along with current Miners teammate Ben Norton. For Edenton he carried a 1.85 ERA, striking out 33 and walking 18 over 43 innings. Opposing hitters hit .238 against him. He and Norton helped lead the Steamers to a Division Championship.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Monday, April 7, 2008
MINERS LOGO VOTED BEST IN MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
MARION, Ill. – After a grueling tournament, Big John the Miner can enjoy his one shining moment. The Southern Illinois Miners logo was voted to be the best in all of Minor League Baseball Wednesday morning after defeating the Wichita Wingnuts in the championship match.
Winners in the 64-team tournament were determined by fan voting on CNBC sports business reporter Darren Rovell’s Sports Biz blog on the CNBC website.
“It was a long road to the end of the tunnel,” said Rovell. “But it comes as no surprise that it was Big John, with his big muscles, pick axe and trusty light, who moved his way through to CNBC.com's Minor League Baseball Logo Championship.”
Over 170,000 votes were cast in Tuesday’s finale, and the Miners logo garnered 55 percent of the vote. The team will receive a plaque this season from CNBC for winning the first CNBC.com Minor League Baseball Logo Championship.
“This is a great honor for the team to receive this recognition,” Miners GM Tim Arseneau said. “We had a lot of fun with this competition, and we just want to thank Darren for coming up with the tournament and all the people who voted for our logo.”
For more on the competition, fans can visit Rovell’s blog on the CNBC website at http://www.cnbc.com/id/15837629.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m.
Winners in the 64-team tournament were determined by fan voting on CNBC sports business reporter Darren Rovell’s Sports Biz blog on the CNBC website.
“It was a long road to the end of the tunnel,” said Rovell. “But it comes as no surprise that it was Big John, with his big muscles, pick axe and trusty light, who moved his way through to CNBC.com's Minor League Baseball Logo Championship.”
Over 170,000 votes were cast in Tuesday’s finale, and the Miners logo garnered 55 percent of the vote. The team will receive a plaque this season from CNBC for winning the first CNBC.com Minor League Baseball Logo Championship.
“This is a great honor for the team to receive this recognition,” Miners GM Tim Arseneau said. “We had a lot of fun with this competition, and we just want to thank Darren for coming up with the tournament and all the people who voted for our logo.”
For more on the competition, fans can visit Rovell’s blog on the CNBC website at http://www.cnbc.com/id/15837629.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
FORMER SLU PITCHER JOINS MINERS
MARION, Ill. – The Southern Illinois Miners have signed right handed pitcher Ryan Bird for the 2008 season. Norton, 23, spent the 2007 season with the Toronto Blue Jays organization.
In 22 total relief appearances with the Gulf Coast League Blue Jays and Auburn Doubledays, Bird went 5-3 with a 1.80 ERA. He struck out 43 and walked only 11 in 35.0 innings. Opposing hitter hit a paltry .172 against him.
“I had a chance to see Ryan throw last summer before he signed with Toronto,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “I liked his approach on the mound. He throws strikes and has a great out pitch in his breaking ball. This is a very nice addition to the Miners staff.”
Prior to his year with the Jays, Bird played four years at the University of St. Louis where he was one of the most dominant pitchers in school history. A two-time All-Conference selection and an ESPN the Magazine Academic All-American, Bird holds school records for career strikeouts (286), innings pitched (374.2) and games started (56). For his career, Bird posted a career 3.60 ERA with the Billikens, striking out 286 and walking only 133. He is second in SLU history in career ERA (3.48), fourth in wins (16), 10th in complete games (8) and 14th in appearances (58).
In 2007 Bird ranked 10th in the Atlantic 10 Conference with a 3.33 ERA. He was named Most Outstanding Player in the 2006 Atlantic 10 Tournament, delivering wins in the first and final games of the Billikens championship run.
“Mike wasn’t kidding when he said he was going to go out and find some pitching,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “He’s done a great job going out and signing some quality arms for the team.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
In 22 total relief appearances with the Gulf Coast League Blue Jays and Auburn Doubledays, Bird went 5-3 with a 1.80 ERA. He struck out 43 and walked only 11 in 35.0 innings. Opposing hitter hit a paltry .172 against him.
“I had a chance to see Ryan throw last summer before he signed with Toronto,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “I liked his approach on the mound. He throws strikes and has a great out pitch in his breaking ball. This is a very nice addition to the Miners staff.”
Prior to his year with the Jays, Bird played four years at the University of St. Louis where he was one of the most dominant pitchers in school history. A two-time All-Conference selection and an ESPN the Magazine Academic All-American, Bird holds school records for career strikeouts (286), innings pitched (374.2) and games started (56). For his career, Bird posted a career 3.60 ERA with the Billikens, striking out 286 and walking only 133. He is second in SLU history in career ERA (3.48), fourth in wins (16), 10th in complete games (8) and 14th in appearances (58).
In 2007 Bird ranked 10th in the Atlantic 10 Conference with a 3.33 ERA. He was named Most Outstanding Player in the 2006 Atlantic 10 Tournament, delivering wins in the first and final games of the Billikens championship run.
“Mike wasn’t kidding when he said he was going to go out and find some pitching,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “He’s done a great job going out and signing some quality arms for the team.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
MINERS RE-SIGN BAILEY, VICTOR
MARION, Ill. – The Southern Illinois Miners have re-signed infielder Mike Victor and right-handed pitcher Griffin Bailey for the 2008 season.
Victor, 24, hit .243 with five doubles and seven home runs as a rookie with the Miners in 2007. He posted an impressive .538 average in 13 pinch hit at bats. After starting the season at third base in place of an injured Chris Hall, he went on to play six different positions including designated hitter.
“Mike played a number of important roles for us last season,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He is a big, strong guy who showed power, and as a pinch hitter in critical spots for us, he was tremendous. Mike is a quality guy and a quality player. We are glad to have him back with us.”
Bailey appeared in 15 games, eight of them as a starter, for the Miners in 2007. He finished the season ranked third on the team in strikeouts (45) and fourth on the team in innings pitched (56.0). The 24-year-old former Louisville Cardinal signed with the Houston Astros after college, and recorded a 4.50 ERA in one season with the Astros organization.
“Griffin has a live arm with better than average velocity,” Pinto said. “He worked hard on his mechanics and his approach last season. We believe that Grif has the ability to help this staff this season.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Victor, 24, hit .243 with five doubles and seven home runs as a rookie with the Miners in 2007. He posted an impressive .538 average in 13 pinch hit at bats. After starting the season at third base in place of an injured Chris Hall, he went on to play six different positions including designated hitter.
“Mike played a number of important roles for us last season,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He is a big, strong guy who showed power, and as a pinch hitter in critical spots for us, he was tremendous. Mike is a quality guy and a quality player. We are glad to have him back with us.”
Bailey appeared in 15 games, eight of them as a starter, for the Miners in 2007. He finished the season ranked third on the team in strikeouts (45) and fourth on the team in innings pitched (56.0). The 24-year-old former Louisville Cardinal signed with the Houston Astros after college, and recorded a 4.50 ERA in one season with the Astros organization.
“Griffin has a live arm with better than average velocity,” Pinto said. “He worked hard on his mechanics and his approach last season. We believe that Grif has the ability to help this staff this season.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
MINERS SIGN TOP ILLINI PITCHER
MARION, Ill. – The Southern Illinois Miners have signed right handed pitcher Tanner Roark from the University of Illinois. Roark went 12-2 in his two seasons with the Illini.
The six-foot-two-inch righty was named to the All-Big Ten team when he posted an 8-2 record in 2007. His eight wins and 54.2 innings pitched both ranked second in the Big Ten last season. Roark, 21, will be eligible for the 2008 Major League First-Year Player Draft, which is scheduled for June 5 and 6.
“Tanner is coming here to highlight his skills before the major league draft this June,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He can have an above 90 (miles per hour) fastball with good sink. Tanner is a battler and is very mentally tough on the mound. He will be a great addition to the staff.”
A native of Wilmington, Ill., Roark led Wilmington High School to state championships in 2003 and 2005. He was named the MVP of the tournament in both years.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
The six-foot-two-inch righty was named to the All-Big Ten team when he posted an 8-2 record in 2007. His eight wins and 54.2 innings pitched both ranked second in the Big Ten last season. Roark, 21, will be eligible for the 2008 Major League First-Year Player Draft, which is scheduled for June 5 and 6.
“Tanner is coming here to highlight his skills before the major league draft this June,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He can have an above 90 (miles per hour) fastball with good sink. Tanner is a battler and is very mentally tough on the mound. He will be a great addition to the staff.”
A native of Wilmington, Ill., Roark led Wilmington High School to state championships in 2003 and 2005. He was named the MVP of the tournament in both years.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Friday, March 7, 2008
MINERS DEAL SIMON FOR INFIELDER ROTH
MARION, Ill. – The Southern Illinois Miners have acquired infielder Tony Roth from the Evansville Otters in exchange for first baseman Scott Simon and a player to be named later.
Roth hit .378 with a .439 on base percentage in 10 games with the Otters in 2007. The former Yankees prospect spent the majority of the 2007 season with the Texas Rangers organization where he advanced as high as Triple-A.
“Tony is the definition of a ‘gamer’,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He can play excellent defense at multiple positions on the infield, and he plays the game all-out all the time. His ability to hit to all fields and his strike zone discipline gives us a lot of options. We really liked what we saw in him on the field against us at the end of last season. He is a great addition to the Miners lineup and I believe he has the skills to be an all-star caliber player for us.”
At Creighton University, Roth hit .322 over his four-year career with a .411 on base percentage before signing with the Yankees. He was twice named first team All-Missouri Valley Conference, an All-MVC Tournament selection in 2005 and Freshman of the Year in 2002. In 2007 he was named to the All-Time MVC Team along with fellow Miner Drew Moffitt.
Simon hit .264 for the Miners in 2007. He played in 62 games and his time was spent between DH and first base. It was the former Northern Illinois Husky’s first season in professional baseball.
“With Tim Dorn coming back from the Cardinals and Joey Metropoulos returning,” Pinto said, “it left Scott without a position here. I really wanted to find him a place to play every day. He is a wonderful young man and a very good hitter. I am proud that he wore our uniform and our entire coaching staff wishes him well.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Roth hit .378 with a .439 on base percentage in 10 games with the Otters in 2007. The former Yankees prospect spent the majority of the 2007 season with the Texas Rangers organization where he advanced as high as Triple-A.
“Tony is the definition of a ‘gamer’,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He can play excellent defense at multiple positions on the infield, and he plays the game all-out all the time. His ability to hit to all fields and his strike zone discipline gives us a lot of options. We really liked what we saw in him on the field against us at the end of last season. He is a great addition to the Miners lineup and I believe he has the skills to be an all-star caliber player for us.”
At Creighton University, Roth hit .322 over his four-year career with a .411 on base percentage before signing with the Yankees. He was twice named first team All-Missouri Valley Conference, an All-MVC Tournament selection in 2005 and Freshman of the Year in 2002. In 2007 he was named to the All-Time MVC Team along with fellow Miner Drew Moffitt.
Simon hit .264 for the Miners in 2007. He played in 62 games and his time was spent between DH and first base. It was the former Northern Illinois Husky’s first season in professional baseball.
“With Tim Dorn coming back from the Cardinals and Joey Metropoulos returning,” Pinto said, “it left Scott without a position here. I really wanted to find him a place to play every day. He is a wonderful young man and a very good hitter. I am proud that he wore our uniform and our entire coaching staff wishes him well.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
MINERS RE-SIGN DREW MOFFITT
MARION, Ill. – The Southern Illinois Miners have re-signed outfielder Drew Moffitt for the 2008 season. Moffitt joined the Miners for the final 18 games of the 2007 season and immediately made an impact, hitting .288 with eight extra base hits. It was his first season in professional baseball since 2005.
“Bringing Drew back is a big thing for us,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He brings another big power source to the middle of our lineup. With an off-season spent preparing to play baseball, I think Drew will have a big impact for us. He is a professional and brings a veteran approach to his efforts.”
Moffitt played his college baseball at Wichita State. In three seasons with the Shockers he hit .301 with 60 home runs and a .439 on base percentage. He led the Missouri Valley Conference in home runs for three consecutive years, was a two time All-MVC first team selection and was named to the MVC All-Centennial Team.
Moffitt was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the tenth round of the 2004 draft. In 75 games over two years with the O’s organization, he hit .258 with 12 home runs and 43 RBI. He was released following the 2005 season and did not play in 2006.
After taking more than a year and a half away from the game, he joined the Havasu Heat to play in the NBC World Series. He hit .315 with three home runs, seven RBI and eight runs scored for the national champion Heat. He was also named to the All-American team in 2007 before joining the Miners.
“The lineup is really starting to take shape with these important players returning,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “I can’t wait to get these guys on the field with Mike and get this season started.”
Moffitt enters the season with a one-year status with the Frontier League. He will turn 27 during the season so this will be his final year of eligibility in the league.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
“Bringing Drew back is a big thing for us,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He brings another big power source to the middle of our lineup. With an off-season spent preparing to play baseball, I think Drew will have a big impact for us. He is a professional and brings a veteran approach to his efforts.”
Moffitt played his college baseball at Wichita State. In three seasons with the Shockers he hit .301 with 60 home runs and a .439 on base percentage. He led the Missouri Valley Conference in home runs for three consecutive years, was a two time All-MVC first team selection and was named to the MVC All-Centennial Team.
Moffitt was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the tenth round of the 2004 draft. In 75 games over two years with the O’s organization, he hit .258 with 12 home runs and 43 RBI. He was released following the 2005 season and did not play in 2006.
After taking more than a year and a half away from the game, he joined the Havasu Heat to play in the NBC World Series. He hit .315 with three home runs, seven RBI and eight runs scored for the national champion Heat. He was also named to the All-American team in 2007 before joining the Miners.
“The lineup is really starting to take shape with these important players returning,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “I can’t wait to get these guys on the field with Mike and get this season started.”
Moffitt enters the season with a one-year status with the Frontier League. He will turn 27 during the season so this will be his final year of eligibility in the league.
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
MINERS RE-SIGN LITTLE
MARION, Ill. – The Southern Illinois Miners have re-signed right-handed pitcher Chris Little for the 2008 season. Little went 8-8 with a 3.80 ERA in 2007 as he split time between the Miners and the Gateway Grizzlies.
“Chris has a live arm and is expected to be a solid member of this staff,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He brings experience and a very competitive, professional approach to the mound.”
The St. Louis native is entering his seventh season of professional baseball. He joined the Miners in late July when he was traded for left-handed pitcher Brian Logan, who is now with the White Sox organization. In nine appearances with the Miners, eight of them starts, he went 4-5 with a 4.44 ERA. He did not allow an earned run in his final 16.1 innings of the season. Included in that stretch was a complete game three-hit shutout.
“We found Chris to be a very hard worker and very coachable,” Pinto said. “He is on our off-season program now and we are looking at a big year for Chris.”
Little was originally drafted by the Houston Astros in the 12th round of the 2001 draft. He spent one season in the Astros organization before signing with Gateway. He then pitched one season with the Montreal Expos affiliate in Vermont before rejoining the Grizzlies for two more seasons.
“It’s great to see so many important pieces of this team returning,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “Mike deserves a lot of credit for that. I’m looking forward to a great season.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
“Chris has a live arm and is expected to be a solid member of this staff,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He brings experience and a very competitive, professional approach to the mound.”
The St. Louis native is entering his seventh season of professional baseball. He joined the Miners in late July when he was traded for left-handed pitcher Brian Logan, who is now with the White Sox organization. In nine appearances with the Miners, eight of them starts, he went 4-5 with a 4.44 ERA. He did not allow an earned run in his final 16.1 innings of the season. Included in that stretch was a complete game three-hit shutout.
“We found Chris to be a very hard worker and very coachable,” Pinto said. “He is on our off-season program now and we are looking at a big year for Chris.”
Little was originally drafted by the Houston Astros in the 12th round of the 2001 draft. He spent one season in the Astros organization before signing with Gateway. He then pitched one season with the Montreal Expos affiliate in Vermont before rejoining the Grizzlies for two more seasons.
“It’s great to see so many important pieces of this team returning,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “Mike deserves a lot of credit for that. I’m looking forward to a great season.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Interview with Drew Moffitt
Part 1 of getting to know the team. Thank you Drew for taking the time to anwser my questions. I look forward to interviewing as many of the Miners Player's as possible.
Do you have a family, i.e wife, children, ect.? No wife or kids. I do have a dog though. He is a year and a half old Brittany Spaniel. He is an awesome hunter and hopefully a field champion some day.
How long have you played baseball? I got into competitive baseball when I was 12. I was actually big into basketball before that.
Have you ever had any major injuires? I have had wrist surgery, shoulder surgery, and knee surgery. I am also recovering from a badly sprained ankle. I guess thats what I get for thinking I am Michael Jordan.
What are your Minor league professional stats? I am not really sure. I do know it wasn't enough at-bats, thanks Orioles!
What are you hobbies? I love to workout. I go to the gym five to six times a week and do not miss a day. I am also a big hunter, mainly deer and pheasants. Oh yeah, and I am also a HUGE Utah Jazz and Cleveland Browns fan.
What TV shows do you watch? I don't watch tv at all. Actually I don't even have cable. If the Jazz or Browns are on I will go to a bar and grill to watch the game.
Whats your favorite food? I eat extremly healthy in the off season, and try to as much as possible in season. Alot of fish, chicken, rice and vegetables.
What do you do in the offseason? Work with little league teams and give private hitting lessons.
What did you major in through college? Sports administration
What makes you better than the guy beside you? Nothing, he is my best friend. I don't think I am better than anyone,unless you challenge me in a sport or game.
Miner's players, please email me at minersblog@aol.com to be Interviewed by us, This gives the community and beyond a look inside of your life. I'm here to promote your playing and personal abilities as much as I can. Thank you, Dan
Do you have a family, i.e wife, children, ect.? No wife or kids. I do have a dog though. He is a year and a half old Brittany Spaniel. He is an awesome hunter and hopefully a field champion some day.
How long have you played baseball? I got into competitive baseball when I was 12. I was actually big into basketball before that.
Have you ever had any major injuires? I have had wrist surgery, shoulder surgery, and knee surgery. I am also recovering from a badly sprained ankle. I guess thats what I get for thinking I am Michael Jordan.
What are your Minor league professional stats? I am not really sure. I do know it wasn't enough at-bats, thanks Orioles!
What are you hobbies? I love to workout. I go to the gym five to six times a week and do not miss a day. I am also a big hunter, mainly deer and pheasants. Oh yeah, and I am also a HUGE Utah Jazz and Cleveland Browns fan.
What TV shows do you watch? I don't watch tv at all. Actually I don't even have cable. If the Jazz or Browns are on I will go to a bar and grill to watch the game.
Whats your favorite food? I eat extremly healthy in the off season, and try to as much as possible in season. Alot of fish, chicken, rice and vegetables.
What do you do in the offseason? Work with little league teams and give private hitting lessons.
What did you major in through college? Sports administration
What makes you better than the guy beside you? Nothing, he is my best friend. I don't think I am better than anyone,unless you challenge me in a sport or game.
Miner's players, please email me at minersblog@aol.com to be Interviewed by us, This gives the community and beyond a look inside of your life. I'm here to promote your playing and personal abilities as much as I can. Thank you, Dan
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
MINERS RE-SIGN FORMER SALUKI STAR KOSKI
MARION, Ill. – The Southern Illinois Miners have re-signed centerfielder Kevin Koski for the 2008 season. The former Southern Illinois Saluki hit .297 as a rookie with the Miners in 2007, but after 25 games his season was cut short when he broke his hamate (wrist) bone in July. He underwent season-ending surgery.
“We project Kevin to be our leadoff man this season,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He has a great eye at the plate along with great bat control. Kevin can impact a game with his speed and base running abilities. We expect he will be the table setter for our middle of the lineup guys. Kevin plays great defense and plays the game with abandon. It is great to have him back and healthy.”
While at SIU, Koski was a team captain and set a school record with a 36-game hitting streak that stretched over the 2005 and 2006 seasons. Over his four-year college career, Koski hit .319 and stole 55 bases. While in college, he was named “best pure hitter,” “fastest runner” and “best plate discipline” in the Missouri Valley Conference by Baseball America. He also won first team All-MVC honors.
“Kevin is an exciting player, and we’re glad to see him return,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “Mike has done a great job bringing back so many of our key players from last season.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
“We project Kevin to be our leadoff man this season,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He has a great eye at the plate along with great bat control. Kevin can impact a game with his speed and base running abilities. We expect he will be the table setter for our middle of the lineup guys. Kevin plays great defense and plays the game with abandon. It is great to have him back and healthy.”
While at SIU, Koski was a team captain and set a school record with a 36-game hitting streak that stretched over the 2005 and 2006 seasons. Over his four-year college career, Koski hit .319 and stole 55 bases. While in college, he was named “best pure hitter,” “fastest runner” and “best plate discipline” in the Missouri Valley Conference by Baseball America. He also won first team All-MVC honors.
“Kevin is an exciting player, and we’re glad to see him return,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “Mike has done a great job bringing back so many of our key players from last season.”
The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Monday, February 25, 2008
MINERS RENEW RADIO DEAL WITH 97.7 THE BEAR
MARION, Ill. – The Southern Illinois Miners and Clear Channel Radio have renewed a deal that will have all 96 Miners games broadcast live on WQUL-FM 97.7 The Bear for the second year in a row.
“It was great for The Bear to be the flagship station for Miners games during the inaugural season,” Clear Channel General Manager Jerry Crouse said. “This is a successful partnership we hope to continue for years to come.”
Radio announcer Scott Gierman will call the play-by-play for every game as well as host the pre-game and post-game shows. It will be his first season as the voice of the Miners.
“The Bear’s coverage area perfectly matches the footprint of our fan base,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “We had tremendous listenership last season. It was unbelievable to walk into a restaurant and hear our games being played over the restaurant’s sound system.”
Miners fans can pick up The Bear on their radios from Franklin, Hamilton, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Perry, Saline, and Williamson Counties.
The Miners open the season on the radio against the Gateway Grizzlies on May 21. The home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
“It was great for The Bear to be the flagship station for Miners games during the inaugural season,” Clear Channel General Manager Jerry Crouse said. “This is a successful partnership we hope to continue for years to come.”
Radio announcer Scott Gierman will call the play-by-play for every game as well as host the pre-game and post-game shows. It will be his first season as the voice of the Miners.
“The Bear’s coverage area perfectly matches the footprint of our fan base,” Miners General Manager Tim Arseneau said. “We had tremendous listenership last season. It was unbelievable to walk into a restaurant and hear our games being played over the restaurant’s sound system.”
Miners fans can pick up The Bear on their radios from Franklin, Hamilton, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Perry, Saline, and Williamson Counties.
The Miners open the season on the radio against the Gateway Grizzlies on May 21. The home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
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