Boys of summer headed south

The Michigan baseball team, posting a 5-6 record, hopes to elevate its game this weekend in College Station, Texas. Playing in the Texas A&M Tournament, the Wolverines will gear up for some top competition.

With the six game tournament running from tomorrow to Monday, Michigan is set to battle it out against Cal State-Northridge, Nevada-Las Vegas, and Texas A&M.

The road trip will allow the Wolverines to see how they measure up against some quality opponents, notably Texas A&M, which enters the tournament ranked No. 6 in the nation by Baseball America.

"We're going against three pretty good teams. We definitely want to do well in this tournament," Michigan coach Geoff Zahn said.

Returning six starters from last year's squad, including 1998 Michigan MVP Mike Cervenak, the Wolverines' enter the event looking to cash in on their experience this year.

But thus far the Michigan offense has slumped. The team is batting .256, nearly 30 points lower than their opponents'. In its last game, a 6-0 loss to Southern Illinois, Michigan was held to just five hits, all of which were singles.

Although the offense has been somewhat sluggish, there are some notable bright spots. Senior second baseman Bobby Scales and senior center fielder Brian Bush are enjoying 11 and six-game hitting streaks, respectively. Seniors Mike Cervenak and Jason Alcaraz are also swinging the bat well, each holding their batting average above .300.

But Zahn recognizes the need for other players to contribute if the Wolverines are to have a successful season. While in College Station, Zahn will have the opportunity to identify a supporting cast of hitters. Currently, the coach hasn't been all that impressed with his team's performance at the plate.

"We've got some guys who aren't hitting. They'll get a chance to step it up or others will get a chance to fill their position," Zahn said.

In addition to the hitters, heading down to Texas will give the fairly young pitching staff valuable experience before Big Ten conference play begins.

Luke Bonner, J.J. Putz and Bryce Ralston are scheduled to start the first three games of the tournament.

While the experienced Wolverines are on the hill, Zahn will evaluate additional pitchers in hopes of finding the rotation's final starter before the Wolverines return home.

Zahn has been pleased so far with the Wolverine hurlers. Each of the three starters boasts an ERA under 4.00.

But with its non-conference schedule winding down, Michigan must iron out the last-minute wrinkles before Big Ten foes come calling.

While the pitching looks solid, Zahn said that the offense must pick up the slack if the Wolverines are to succeed in Texas.

03-18-99