Good Start Key For Tigers |
When you reach the Super Regionals, it becomes evident that you will face solid pitching the rest of the postseason. Clemson and Baylor both have very solid staffs and are no stranger to facing good pitching.
In this weekend's series, a solid start will be key for Clemson. It is very difficult to come from behind in the postseason, especially on the road against a quality staff. Baylor has solid starting pitching, but they rely heavily on their bullpen. Baylor's bullpen has six pitchers with 20 or more innings of work. Clemson conversely only has three, Daniel Moskos, Jeff Hahn and David Kopp, but Kopp has earned most of his innings as a midweek starter. The Bears will not hesitate to turn the game over to the bullpen, as their staff only has one complete game this season. A pair of right handers, Ryan LaMotta (2.22 ERA) and Abe Woody (2.79 ERA), have been brilliant in the closer role. The two have combined for 17 saves. LaMotta has 74 strikeouts versus 19 walks in 69.0 innings of work. Woody leads the team with 11 saves. Opponents are hitting below .200 versus LaMotta (.190 BA) and Woody (.199 BA). Jeff Mandel is also a very dangerous part of the Bears bullpen. He has a team low ERA 2.05 in 61.1 inings. Mandel has also been used sparingly as a starter. Baylor's starting pitching rotation has remained the same all year. RHP Mark McKormick (7-3, 3.12 ERA), LHP Trey Taylor (7-5, 3.43 ERA), and LHP Cory VanAllen (7-4, 4.00 ERA) have the game plan to go about seven innings and then turned the game over to the bullpen. Baylor's bullpen gives them the pitching advantage over the Tigers. Stephen Faris, Josh Cribb, and Robert Rohrbaugh have been oustanding in postseason play, but the bullpen has been relatively untested.
Upgrade Your Account
Unlock premium boards and exclusive features (e.g. ad-free) by upgrading your account today.
Upgrade Now
