A Look Back, A Look Forward

The month of December is always a fun time for me and for many collegiate baseball players. It's usually a chance to get some quality time at home. With the grind during the spring and summer, players do not get much of a "summer vacation."

The holidays also provide a great chance to reflect back on the past. We've made that easy for you if you want to relive the 2009 Copperheads. Go to the "Audio" tab on the homepage, and it's right there for you. The ride was a fun one, and the 14-minute feature brings back some great memories.

Looking ahead to 2010, the GLSCL is staying busy. There are a few news and notes about tomorrow's league meeting that are of interest:

• The Delaware Cows will be back in 2010 after a one-year absence. The Cows planned on returning in one year when the team pulled out of the '09 campaign, which means that there is no need for a vote to approve the addition. Delaware is back for 2010.
• As long as the Lexington organization is voted into the league (more on that in a second), the league will have 11 teams. This would prompt a 40-game schedule, with all teams facing each other four times during the season (either four single dates-two at each site-or two doubleheaders-one at each site), which is how the '08 schedule was designed. If you recall, 2009 featured the lowest number of games (36) in league history.
• From Southern Ohio's perspective, this is a great thing. Looking back to last season, the Copperheads' regular season spanned 46 days, but the team was only scheduled to play on 26 days. Throw in the many doubleheaders, rain outs and postponements, and the team only played every other day, on average. That's just not going to cut it when other summer leagues like the Cape Cod League and the Coastal Plain League, among others, are playing almost every day. More teams, especially teams close to Athens (i.e. Delaware), means more games, which is great for the Copperheads and everyone in the league.
• The group associated with the Lexington team will present its proposal for admittance into the league at tomorrow's meeting. There are no problems expected, and the proposal seems to be thorough. The team could play in a few different stadiums, which isn't an issue (Lake Erie did it last year). So Lexington will be a member of the GLSCL barring something strange happening.
• The most interesting aspect of tomorrow's meeting to me is a possible change in the playoff set-up. A few league members are proposing a six-team, series format. The top two seeds would receive a bye in round one, as the other four would play one game the Tuesday after the regular season ends (which is a Sunday) to move onto the final four (3-vs.-6, 4-vs.-5), with the higher seed getting home field. Then, the 3-vs.-6 winner would face the second seeded team and the 4-vs.-5 winner would face the top seed in three-game series, with the higher seed getting games 1 and 2 at home.
• The championship series would also be a three-game series, with the home dates based on the distance between the two competing teams. If the trip is less than 150 miles, the higher seed will get games 1 and 3 at home. If the trip is more than 150 miles, the higher seed will play at home during games 1 and 2.
• The semifinals would take place Wednesday-Friday, and the finals would be from Saturday to Monday.
• Last year, the league voted down a proposal for a four-team playoff similar to the second and third legs of this postseason format. The proposal and the vote comes tomorrow. I'll keep you posted.
• My two cents: I love the idea. It keeps the same number of teams in the playoffs, and it rewards the efforts during the regular season much more. Quite frankly, a tournament at a neutral site doesn't give the top seed any advantage over the low seed. In my mind, there should be an advantage. Plus, this set-up is what almost every other league uses. But I understand that this may not be logistically or monetarily possible. We'll see how the rest of the league votes, but from strictly a baseball perspective, I love the proposal.

I'll keep you posted on the meeting tomorrow. Until next time, take a listen to the '09 rewind, and go Copperheads.

- Brian

Time to be Thankful

First off, happy Thanksgiving to everyone. This is truly a great time of the year, and I hope everyone reading gets a chance to take a break and enjoy some food and friendship.

As always, the Copperheads are staying busy, announcing a new assistant coach for the 2010 season--Jordan Becker. The Copperheads will go with a coaching staff quartet in '10. In talking with Becker a few times, he seems to be an engaging personality who is excited about coming to Athens. Should be fun.

Also, there is some possible movement in the GLSCL this upcoming season. The league is looking into an expansion to Lexington, Kentucky. The league added Hamilton prior to the '09 season, and the Joes drew better than most.

On the flip side, the Anderson Servants will request a year off to re-organize their organization. There were some complaints about the condition of Memorial Field, the home of the Servants. The Copperheads did not have to go to Anderson this year (Southern Ohio hosted the Servants for a three-game set in 2009), but the field was not in great shape in 2008 when the Snakes went to Anderson. From what I've heard, it got worse this past season.

The hope is to re-apply for membership in the GLSCL at some point. "Certainly, rest assured that we would not re-apply unless [the league] felt that all the components were already in place for a quality program," Anderson general manager Greg Lymberopoulous said via e-mail to the league. "I would like to remain a supporter of the Great Lakes League and its mission for the long term."

Also, before starting to down that turkey, here are some players with contracts to play for the Copperheads in 2010:

• Bryan Barnes, IF, Ohio University.
• Andy Carter, P, Shawnee State University.
• Matt Croglio, P, College of the Holy Cross.
• Addison Dunn, P, Kent State University.
• Ryan Jones, P, Michigan State University.
• Kevin Kiermaier, OF, Parkland College/Purdue University.
• Sam Mahoney, C/IF, Ohio University.
• John Martinez, C, Michigan State University.
• Wes O'Neill, IF, Ohio University.
• Spencer Payne, IF, Boston College.
• John Pedrotty, P, College of the Holy Cross.
• Trey Popp, P, Michigan State University.
• David Starn, P, Kent State University.
• Seth Streich, P/IF, Ohio University.
• Andrew Waszak, P, Michigan State University.
• Darin Worman, P, Parkland College/Eastern Illinois University.
• David Wright, P, Kent State University.

Keep an eye on copperheadbaseball.com for the audio tribute to the 2009 Southern Ohio Copperheads, which will be available by the end of the weekend. Until then, Happy Thanksgiving from all of us with the Copperheads!

- Brian

October baseball is here

When I was five years old, I had the privilege of attending Game 4 of the 1995 World Series between Cleveland and Atlanta. While my beloved Indians lost 5-2 that night, I had the time of my life. This year, I'm stuck watching former Indians CC Sabathia and Cliff Lee wheel and deal for their current clubs. However, my childhood was filled with magical baseball memories, as it truly was a golden age. I am sure that my love for baseball and for covering sports can be traced back to the Indians' amazing run in the mid- and late-1990s.

So I will watch the October (and November) excitement and await the valiant return to the playoffs for my Indians soon (or maybe not so soon). And hey, we can always remember back to the championship run by the Green and Gold.

For now, a few off-season bullet points:

• While college baseball is probably the last thing on most people's mind right now, this time of the year is when the initial connections are made for summer ball. When the Copperheads' general staff meets for the first time in January, there will (most likely) be a "rough draft" roster ready. There has been over the last two years by January, but obviously that is far from set.
• I spoke with assistant coach Chris Moore a few days ago, and he told me that a few players have tentatively committed for 2010, including two all-stars (David Starn and Trent Moses). Andy Carter and Matt Robertson have also indicated that they will return for another summer in Athens.
• Taylor Davis will not return, as he has agreed to play for the Alexandria (Minn.) Beetles of the Northwoods League.
• Coach Moore also told me that Brannon Belair had Tommy John surgery recently and will be out for at least one year. Certainly a tough break for the southpaw, but he's a Walsh Jesuit Warrior--he will battle back.
• PGCrosschecker rated the top 25 prospects in the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League, and Southern Ohio had two representatives. Click HERE for the entire list. Dayton's Cameron Hobson checked in at 7th, while Northwestern's Dave Jensen squeezed in at 24th.
• Two snubs in my mind are David Starn and Jerod Yakubik, but what do I know? Also, Jordan Langley could make a strong argument as a closer prospect, but he is just a sophomore this year. He has time.
• The colors Green and Gold seem to be the way to go in southeastern Ohio sports this year. Not only did the Copperheads go to their first ever title game, but the Athens High School Bulldogs' football team (a team I do play-by-play for during the fall) is 6-0 for the first time in a long time (the records don't go back far enough), and they don the Green and Gold.
  

If you have any feedback or questions, feel free to e-mail me at copperheadsradio@copperheadbaseball.com. Stay locked to copperheadbaseball.com, as the 2009 season rewind will be available at our podcast soon. Go Copperheads!

- Brian

Catching up with the professional Copperheads

Before we talk about some of the former Copperheads in the professional ranks, I have to congratulate all parties involved with the return of the 2009 coaching staff for 2010. Whenever you can hold onto a coaching staff, you are benefitting in the recruiting process (an underrated feature of this league) and on the field. Coaching summer ball is different than coaching spring ball in many ways. Five teams had head coaches returning last season in the GLSCL (Lima, Licking County, Xenia, Stark County and Anderson), and three made the postseason. The Copperheads have never had a skipper return. This year, they will have the whole staff. Hopefully, this can convince some of the solid underclassmen to return to Athens next summer.

Mike, Chris and Tim are all class acts and great baseball men, and I am happy to share another summer with them in 2010. Here's hoping there will be more dinners at Broney's, trips to the Greene County Fair, insightful pre-game interview additions by coach Florak, 6.46 60s, and (most importantly) W's.

Now, let's get you a minor league update. Here is how the former Copperheads are doing at the minor league level, in alphabetical order with their year with Southern Ohio in parentheses:

Paul Bennett (2005): Mississippi Braves, AA affiliate of Atlanta Braves

- .182 average, 0 homers and 10 RBIs in 48 games

Seth Bynum (2003): Syracuse Chiefs, AAA affiliate of Washington Nationals

- .260 average in 110 games; 16 homers and 57 runs batted in; competed in the AAA All-Star Game July 15.

Tony Campana (2007): Daytona Cubs, High-A affiliate of Chicago Cubs

- .280 average with 0 homers and 21 RBIs; second in Florida State League with 48 SBs in just 88 games; promoted to Daytona after 18 games at the low A level.

Mike Folli (2005): Springfield Cardinals, AA affiliate of St. Louis Cardinals

- .236 batting average in 59 games; 3 long balls and 20 RBIs

Jake Goebbert (2008): Tri-City Valley Cats, A-Short Season affiliate of Houston Astros

- .242 average in 40 games; 0 home runs and 13 runs batted in; 10 runs scored

Kevan Hess (2008): Oneonta Tigers, A-Short Season affiliate of Detroit Tigers

- 2-0 record with a 2.87 ERA in 31.1 innings; Strikeout-to-walk ratio of 26-14; 14 appearances, including one start, when he went four innings and allowed only one run on July 30, earning a no-decision

Marc Krauss (2009...signed, but did not play): South Bend Silver Hawks, Low-A affiliate of Arizona Diamondbacks

- .304 average with 2 homers and 17 runs batted in; done for the season with an ankle injury; had surgery on the ankle and is now preparing for instructional ball this fall

Joey Newby (2003): West Tenn Diamond Jaxx, AA affiliate of Seattle Mariners

- 0-1 record with a 3.44 ERA; strikeout-to-walk ratio at 28-25; 22 appearances; had a brief sting with AAA Tacoma, allowing one earned run in 6.1 innings

Ryan Peisel (2005): Asheville Tourists, Low-A affiliate of Colorado Rockies

- .295 average in 78 games; 3 home runs and 34 runs batted in

Jonathan Pokorny (2007): Helena Brewers, Rookie affiliate of Milwaukee Brewers

- 2-2 record with a 2.33 ERA in 10 appearances (two starts); 27 innings of work; 1.37 WHIP

Ryan Robowski (2007): Missoula Osprey, Rookie affiliate of Arizona Diamondbacks

- 3-2 record with a 3.79 ERA in 13 relief appearances; 16-6 K-BB ratio

Jason Rook (2006): Aberdeen Ironbirds, A-Short Season affiliate of Baltimore Orioles

- .240 average in 29 games; one home run and seven RBIs

David Rubinstein (2006): State College Spikes, A-Short Season affiliate of Pittsburgh Pirates

- .274 average in 48 games; 2 homers and 24 RBIs

Adam Russell (2002): Portland Beavers, AAA affiliate of San Diego Padres

- 0-0 record with a 7.88 ERA in eight innings with Portland; traded along with three other prospects from Chicago to San Diego for ace Jake Peavy; listed on the Padres' 40-man roster

Ben Watkins (2008): Staten Island Yankees, A-Short Season affiliate of New York Yankees

- 3-0 record with a 1.65 ERA in 32.2 innings; a 30-6 strikeout-to-walk ratio and a 0.98 WHIP

Kevin Winn (2006): Eugene Emeralds, A-Short Season affiliate of San Diego Padres

- .209 average in 12 games; 0 homers and five RBIs; recently demoted from High-A Lake Elsinore

More to come, including the audio tribute to the Copperheads' 2009 season at the Audio tab of copperheadbaseball.com sometime next week. 

- Brian

Coaching staff announcement coming soon

Stay tuned over the next few days to copperheadbaseball.com, as an announcement regarding the coaching staff for 2010 will appear on the homepage. 

A few other quick tidbits:

• We will have the rest of our 2009 pictures up on the Pictures tab of copperheadbaseball.com in the next 10 days or so. We apologize for the inconvenience, but please revisit the site soon to take a look at all of the pictures from the '09 campaign.
• Check out the 2009 Copperheads Awards article. It was a smashing success for guys like Jerod Yakubik, David Jensen, Jeff May, Jordan Langley, Trent Moses and some others. Easily one of the most enjoyable stories to write all year, so I hope you enjoy it.
• Congrats again to Jessie Martin, the newest Assistant General Manager of the Copperheads. A story on the Ohio University graduate student is on the homepage.

Again, stay tuned for a coaching staff announcement coming soon. Until then, take care.

- Brian

Wrapping it up

The team is back in Athens, and the season is over. Even though the Copperheads fell one game short of the GLSCL title, the season was a blast for everyone. Now, each player begins their trip home. Some have already started. Many players get little time at home, and as a person in the same boat, I hope that all of them get to enjoy it. 

Stay tuned to copperheadbaseball.com for a few season-ending stories, including the second-annual Copperheads Awards. You can relive all 38 games by going to our podcast and downloading the highlight packages. In a few weeks, I will have an audio recap of the wild ride that was the 2009 Copperheads season.

Thanks to everyone who has made this season an enjoyable one. Allie, Brad, Justin and I appreciate all of the kind words and the feedback that all of you have provided during the season. We look forward to more excitement in 2010, as the Copperheads will compete in the GLSCL for the ninth time.

Stay tuned to the blog in the coming weeks for updates on some of the former Copperheads. Until then, I'm off to my home like many of the players. Thanks, and go Copperheads!

- Brian

Why Licking County's win is good for the Copperheads

Licking County just beat Cincinnati in the first game of day two at the tournament. Had the Settlers lost to the Steam, then tonight's Lima-Southern Ohio game would have been for all the marbles in Pod 1. Now, the Copperheads would still be alive for the title game even if they lose tonight against top-seeded Lima. Here are the two scenarios that allow the Copperheads to play Friday night at 7:00 p.m. for the title.

1. Southern Ohio defeats Lima tonight.
2. These three things:

• The Copperheads beat Grand Lake Friday at 1 p.m.
• Licking County defeats Lima at 4 p.m. Friday
• The Copperheads allow fewer runs in their three tournament games than Lima and Licking County (right now, the Copperheads have allowed two runs in one game; Lima three runs in one game; and Licking County eight runs in two games).

Obviously, the first scenario is easier.

Andy Carter will battle Tyler Newhart (3-0, 1.09 ERA in 33 IP) on the mound tonight. Tune in beginning at 6:45 p.m. to Power 105 for the action.

- Brian

Day 1 is done

It was an exciting day of action at the GLSCL Tournament today. Southern Ohio took down the Licking County Settlers, and the other two games were decided by one run. Cincinnati downed Grand Lake 3-2 at 3:30 p.m., and Lima, with three runs in the 9th, stunned the host Scouts 4-3. Now, with the pod set-up the way that it is, Southern Ohio's season is (almost) on the line tomorrow. If the Copperheads defeat the Locos, then the Snakes will go to the title game for the first time in team history. If Lima wins, then the Copperheads would need a lot of help.

Southern Ohio would need Licking County to win its game tomorrow against Cincinnati, and then take down Lima Friday. The Copperheads would then need to beat Grand Lake Friday. If all that were to happen, then there still is no guarantee that the Copperheads would be in the title game. In fact, I have no idea what would happen if this scenario would play out (because all three teams would be 2-1 and 1-1 within the pod). A situation like this would require something strange (run differential anybody?), but I don't know exactly what it would be.

A few other tidbits from Xenia:

• If there is a "meaningless" game Friday, it will still be played. For instance, if Southern Ohio wins and Grand Lake loses tomorrow, they will still play Friday at 1:00 p.m. even though the Copperheads would already be in the title game and Grand Lake would already be eliminated. When discussing this at the coaches meeting Tuesday to figure out the tournament after the rain, the majority of the coaches wanted to play it no matter what.
• It's always tough to predict baseball games (see today's Copperheads win against a team that swept them in the regular season), but this Lima-Southern Ohio match-up is even tougher because you can't look at the two teams' four regular season battles. The first two, during a twin bill at Simmons Field, came in the season's first week, and it was a split. The second doubleheader came last Sunday, and it meant nothing in the standings.
  
• Speaking of tomorrow, Andy Carter will toe the rubber for the Green and Gold. Carter faced Lima Sunday for two innings and walked three but did not allow a run.
• Low seeds in the tournament are no strangers to the title game. Last year, #4 Columbus went to the title game. In 2007, Grand Lake won the whole thing as a #5 seed. In 2006, Grand Lake went to the championship game as the #6 seed. So, Southern Ohio's run isn't out of the ordinary.
• David Starn will not be with the team, as he has a wedding to attend. However, he certainly made his mark with his outing today.
  
• The quote man, pitching coach Chris Moore, on what his plans were today after the game: "The best part about tournaments is when you win, you go back and everyone thinks you're awesome."

Tune in tomorrow at 6:45 p.m. on Power 105 and online at copperheadbaseball.com. If you are listening online, again your best bet is to click on the AWAY link. Don't miss the biggest game in the history of the franchise.

- Brian

New GLSCL Tournament Schedule

Well, we are going to get the tournament done by Friday...as long as the weather holds off. Here's the scoop. There are now two "pods," with Southern Ohio grouped with #1 Lima and #4 Licking County. #2 Grand Lake, #3 Cincinnati and #6 Xenia are in the other pod. Each team will play both teams in their pod and one from the other pod. Here's Southern Ohio's schedule:

• Wednesday, 12:00 p.m.: vs. Licking County
• Thursday, 7:00 p.m.: vs. Lima
• Friday, 1:00 p.m.: vs. Grand Lake

If Southern Ohio's record is better than Lima and Licking County's, then the Snakes will be playing in the GLSCL title game against the winner of the other pod. So, no matter what, the Copperheads will be in Xenia until Friday.

A few notes prior to the opening of the tournament:

• David Starn will still pitch in game one, and Andy Carter is scheduled for Thursday's game.
  
• The Copperheads went 0-4 against the Settlers in 2009 and were outscored 20-9.
  
• For an interview with the Voice of the Settlers Ben Bradley to learn more about the Settlers, go to the Audio tab and tune into the 2009 GLSCL Tournament Preview Show.
• The Greene County Fair (Xenia is in Greene County) was a little low on people, but it was a solid event. From the foot long corn dogs to the rock climbing wall to the demolition derby, Allie, Coach Moore and I lived it up Xenia-style Tuesday night.

Tune in tomorrow at 11:45 a.m. to Power 105 and online at copperheadbaseball.com, as Allie and I get you ready for the tournament opener. If you listen online, click the AWAY link. It will be a bit more dependable.

- Brian

First day of the GLSCL Tournament postponed

The first day of the tournament is delayed. There are full details on copperheadbaseball.com. As for tomorrow's schedule, the coaches of the six teams are meeting at 5 p.m. to sort out the issues. Who knows how it will be sorted out. We will keep you updated.

Also, an update from yesterday's entry. If Southern Ohio wins game one, they will take on the Licking County-Cincinnati winner, NOT the Lima-Xenia winner.

Stay tuned.

- Brian

Tournament Time 2009

It's time for the tournament. To get you set, go to the Audio tab of copperheadbaseball.com for the 2009 GLSCL Tournament Preview Show. I had a chance to sit down with one member of each organization heading to the AIA Complex this week. It is a must-listen to get ready for the playoffs.

A few tidbits before the Copperheads head to Xenia tomorrow:

• David Starn will get the call for the Copperheads as the game one starter against Grand Lake. He went one scoreless inning Sunday, which acted as his bullpen session.
• Jordan Langley and Tyler Gatrell will not be with the team for the tournament. Langley is back in Texas for a few days before his report date at Marion Military Institute for his sophomore season. Gatrell has to take summer classes at Marshall University all week.
• The Copperheads went 1-3 against Grand Lake this season, but two of the games were extra inning games, and all four games were decided by just seven runs.
• Grand Lake led the league with 95 stolen bases, which is something the Snakes will have to keep an eye on during Tuesday's tilt.
• Jerod Yakubik is fine after getting spiked in the first game of the twin bill against Lima Sunday. He will be ready to go for the tournament.
• The last time the Copperheads went to the GLSCL playoffs, they were up 8-3 in the 9th inning against Delaware with a spot in the title game on the line and allowed six runs to fall 9-8. Here's hoping there will be a different fate for the Green and Gold.
• If Southern Ohio wins, it will play at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday against the winner of the Lima-Xenia first round match-up. If the Mariners down Southern Ohio, then the Copperheads will face off with the Lima-Xenia loser at 12:00 p.m. Wednesday in an elimination game.

Allie LaForce and I take the air on Power 105 and online at copperheadbaseball.com at 3:15 p.m. for a first pitch at 3:30 p.m. from the AIA Complex in Xenia. You will be able to access the broadcast at both the Power 105 link and the AWAY link on our website.

- Brian

UPDATE (11:45 PM): Check our website for the All-GLSCL teams. Five Copperheads were named to the two teams. Also, our single-season and career records have been updated as well. Jerod Yakubik and Jordan Langley appear frequently, and Dave Jensen finds himself at the top of the heap in the ERA category.

Copperheads vs Locos - Game 2

After taking game one, Southern Ohio looks to ride the momentum of a sweep of #1 seed Lima into the playoffs . David Starn will get the start for the Copperheads as Derek Carnadore will go for the Locos.

• 9:20 - Game 2 is underway. New shortstop Adam Wamsley commits an error but no damage is done.
• 9:26 - Derek Varnadore looks great in his first inning of work, retiring the side in order.
• 9:35 - New pitcher Greg Frederick comes in to relieve. Lima has registered two hits so far, but the game remains scoreless.
• 9:43 - Jeff May nearly hits one out of the park, but it's snagged right at the warning track. The score remains 0-0.
• 9:58 - Lima scores first as a pick off attempt gets past Jeff May. Chris Sosebee soon follows with a sac fly to right, bringing in another run. The Locos now lead 2-0.
• 10:07 - Wamsley knocks the first Copperhead hit of the game, but it does not convert to runs. Southern Ohio trails by two.
• 10:39 - The fourth & fifth both go without much action as the Locos still lead 2-0 with two innings left.
• 10:49 - The Locos get runners at the corners with one out, but reliever Nick Egan gets out of the jam to keep the deficit at two.
• 11:10 - Marrero and Yakubik both deliver with pinch hits. Fowler gets the Copperheads on the board with an RBI single to left. Pinch-hitter Plata comes through with a sac fly to dead center and Thoma matches with an RBI of his own to to put Southern Ohio on top 3-2. Trent Moses and Jeff May add two more to give the Green & Gold a 5-2 advantage going into the final inning.
• 11:21 - Zach Botjer comes in to close out the game as the Copperheads complete the sweep of Lima.

With the win, Southern Ohio improves to 18-16 on the year while Lima falls to 28-8. You can now follow the Copperheads as they begin postseason play on Tuesday in Xenia against the Grand Lake Mariners. Tune in to the first pitch at 3:00 p.m. at copperheadbaseball.com.

-Justin S.

Copperheads vs. Locos-Game 1

On a beautiful final day at Bob Wren Stadium the Southern Ohio Copperheads host the GLSCL leading Lima Locos in a double-header.

• 5:52...Andy Carter delivers the first pitch
• After walking two...Carter gets two popouts to end the top of the first.
• 6:07...Copperheads are sent down 1-2-3 in the bottom of the first.
• 6:15...Carter walks one, but no damage done. Inning ends on a pick-off at first base.
• 6:29...Shields walks two runners home to put the Snakes up 2-0 through two innings.
• 6:31...Andy Carter is done after two innings, not sure as to why, but Brannon Belair is on the hill for the third inning.
• 6:37...Bases are loaded with only one out. Chris Sosebee up to bat.
• 6:40...A two-out RBI single by Troy Snitker puts the Locos up 3-2 after the top of the third.
• 6:50...A scoreless bottom of the third still has Southern Ohio down one.
• 7:01...Copperheads keep it within one after a strong top of the 4th.
• 7:04...Hiscox pops out to the catcher to end the inning. We're through four at Bob Wren Stadium with the Copperheads down 3-2.
• 7:22...Copperheads have runners on 2nd and 3rd with two down and Trent Moses at the plate.
• 7:26...A wild pitch scores a run for Southern Ohio tie ball game 3-3.
• 7:29...Trent Moses tries to steal and Jerod Yakubik tries to come home and is picked off. 3-3 after five innings.
• 7:36...Jeff May leads off the bottom of the sixth game tied 3-3.
• 7:47...Jordan Langley is on the hill for the top of the 7th. Game tied 3-3.
• 7:51...3-3 through the top of the seventh Copperheads at bat, Ryan Burnett to lead things off.
• 8:02...Yakubik is hit runners on 1st and 2nd two down.
• 8:05...Fear up to bat with the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh.
• 8:07...Fear flies out to center we are going to extra innings in this seven inning game.
• 8:14...Langley strikes out the side in the top of the 8th.
• 8:28...1-2-3 top of the ninth tie game.
  

Former Copperhead Adam Russell traded to San Diego

The first and only Copperhead to make the Major Leagues is heading to a different organization. Adam Russell, a sixth-round pick of the Chicago White Sox and a member of the White Sox's playoff roster in 2008, is one of four pitchers heading to San Diego for Jake Peavy, the Padres' ace right-hander.

Russell, a 2002 member of Southern Ohio, appeared in 22 games for Chicago in 2008, amassing a 5.19 ERA in 26 innings. In 2009, the right-hander from North Olmsted, Ohio, has a 2-2 record with a 3.20 ERA for Triple-A Charlotte. He has five saves in 34 relief appearances.

Russell is on the Padres' 40-man roster, but he is not on their major league squad, according to the roster page at padres.com.

Adam Wamsley added to the roster

Southern Ohio announced Thursday that Adam Wamsley, a soon-to-be sophomore at Shawnee State University, will join the club. Matthew Robertson (P-Morehead State University) is out for the season with an elbow injury, so Wamsley's addition was legal and accepted by the GLSCL and Commissioner Kim Lance.

Wamsley went 1-3 with a 4.72 ERA for SSU in 2009. The right-hander worked 26 and two-thirds innings, striking out 21 and walking 10. He also amassed eight saves. Pitching coach Chris Moore (Wamsley's pitching coach at Shawnee State) recommended him after Robertson went down. 

Wamsley was also a shortstop and appeared in 51 games, hitting .259. But his purpose in Athens will be to contribute out of a slightly depleted bullpen.

A few other notes:

• The game with Stark County postponed today will be played Monday at Walsh University if the Terriers are still in the playoff hunt. If Stark County sweeps both games of two twin bills this weekend (at Xenia, vs. Hamilton), then they would still be in it. Then, they would play Licking County and Southern Ohio Monday in two, nine-inning single games.
• Seeing as though the Terriers would need to win four games in two days, when they have won only nine in 47 days, it isn't likely that the Snakes will have to make the three-hour trek back to North Canton. But you never know.
• The rotation will be set based on the result of Hamilton's game with Grand Lake. It was played tonight, and there has been no word as to the result of that game. Both teams do not have internet broadcasts or twitter accounts. Thus, the league website (greatlakesleague.org) will have the score up before anyone else.
• If the Mariners win, then the Copperheads are in the playoffs, and they will probably save guys such as Cameron Hobson and David Starn for the playoffs. If Hamilton is still able to catch the Snakes, then one of those guys (probably Hobson) will go Saturday to try to sew up that playoff spot.
• Six games have been postponed or canceled due to rain this season.
• Make sure to visit the audio page of copperheadbaseball.com as we approach the playoffs. We will have pregame interviews with players and coaches uploaded to the site prior to each playoff game. 
• Plus, check the site Monday night for a special preview of the GLSCL tournament. I will talk with some players, coaches and broadcasters from all six of the playoff teams. More details will come on this in the coming days.

The team is off tomorrow before heading to Hamilton to take on the Joes. I'll have the call beginning at 3:50 p.m. on copperheadbaseball.com. Keep e-mailing me as well (copperheadsradio@copperheadbaseball.com). 

- Brian

Tournament Math

Gritty effort by the Copperheads tonight against Xenia. Because of it, Southern Ohio now owns a magic number of two. Here is the breakdown:

The Copperheads sit at 15-15. Both Hamilton and Lake Erie are 11-19. Both teams could still win out and go 17-19, which means that two wins by the Copperheads would give them a playoff berth. 

An interesting thing would happen if, somehow, the Copperheads and one of these two teams finished with the same number of wins, which, as you can see, is highly unlikely. The Copperheads would have one game to play (that rainout with Anderson), but the Servants are done with their season Thursday. I would assume that the team will be leaving the Anderson area by Friday, which means that they would not be a team for a possible Monday make-up. As a result, the magic number is two.

If Hamilton loses at home Wednesday (single vs. Lima) and Lake Erie drops at least one to Xenia in a doubleheader Wednesday, then Southern Ohio would be playing Thursday with a chance to clinch a playoff berth. 

As for the sixth spot, Xenia leads the way by just a game over the Joes and the Monarchs. Stark County is still lingering three games back. Anderson is the only team without a chance at the playoffs.

Lima's magic number for the regular season title is two with five games to play. Grand Lake's magic number for the two seed is one. Cincinnati has a 1.5 game lead on Licking County for the third seed.

We will keep you posted as we move toward the league tournament, which begins Tuesday at the site of tonight's Copperheads win--Xenia.

The stretch run

We have reached the final week of the season. The Copperheads sit at 14-13. Here are some tidbits prior to a double dip with the defending champs, the Cincinnati Steam, Monday:

• Greg Frederick will start game one against Cincinnati. Game two's starter has yet to be determined.
• Mike Florak was ejected in the seventh inning of game two. One ejection does not yield a penalty or a suspension from the league. If he is ejected again, he will be suspended for the next game.
• The Copperheads are now four games up on Lake Erie, the 7th place team, and two-and-a-half games up on 6th place Xenia. The magic number to clinch a playoff spot is five.
• This means that any combination of Copperheads' wins and Monarchs' losses that adds to five gives the Snakes their fourth ever playoff appearance.
• Southern Ohio is 2-10 against the top four teams in the league and 12-3 against the bottom five teams. Shockingly, the Copperheads find themselves nestled in 5th place.
• The Copperheads only mustered nine hits in the two games today, but they walked 11 times. The problem was getting guys in, which the Copperheads only did two times.
• The GLSCL playoff schedule was announced yesterday. It will follow the traditional NCAA six-team, double-elimination format. What is important right away is the Copperheads' first game. All six teams will play on the tournament's first day, Tuesday, Aug. 4. The #1 and #6 seeds will play at 12:00 p.m. The #2 and #5 seeds will follow at 3:30 p.m. Finally, the #3 and #4 seeds will round out the day with a 7:00 p.m. start.
• The games will be streamed online at copperheadbaseball.com. Radio information will be ironed out over the next week, and I will keep you updated.

We take the air at 3:50 p.m. for a 4:05 start at Western Hills High School. Tune in on copperheadbaseball.com. E-mail us at copperheadsradio@copperheadbaseball.com. 

- Brian

Copperheads vs. Mariners--Game 2

• Andy Carter on the hill to start things off. Grand Lake took game one 3-1.
• 7:59...Jeff Holm goes yard to right field with a solo shot putting the Snakes up 1-0.
• 8:01...Jared Hoying triples that's his second of the day. Two down but Carter gets Gabe DeMarco down on strikes.
• 8:10...Copperheads have nothing going in the bottom of the first Brent McNeil cruises and the Snakes are still down one.
• 8:20...Copperheads fail to tack anything on in the bottom of the second. Jake Plata is caught stealing.
• 8:30...Davis guns down Lambert who is caught stealing second. Still 1-0 Mariners.
• 8:39...RBI single for Yakubik ties the ball game at one after three frames.
• 8:51...Carter gets Host out looking 1-1 headed into the bottom of the 4th.
• 9:06...Pat Glass makes a huge diving catch in center field he's okay but coach Mike Florak takes him out of the game hoping he's not injured too bad.
• 9:15...Sam Slavik comes in to pitch for the Mariners in the fifth inning. He walked Zach Thoma but got out of the inning with no damage done.
• 9:21...Andy Carter settles down and gets Southern Ohio through the top of the sixth without a hitch.
• 9:31...Nothing going in the bottom half of the inning but Andy Carter is out for the top of the seventh inning.
• 9:36...Some lightning in the area suspends play at Bob Wren Stadium. We'll keep you posted on the game.
• 11:34...Here we go players and umpires and coaches all back on the field. We're minutes away from the game resuming.
• 11:44...Zach Botjer on the hill replacing Carter sends the first batter down looking.
• 11:49...Mike Florak is thrown out of the game after arguing a stealing call.
• 11:57...Copperheads are sent down in order in the bottom of the seventh.
• 12:01...Coach Florak joins me up in the press box after his night has ended...Botjer still on for the 8th inning.
• 12:04...Botjer's day is done and Branon Belair the left-hander is on to pitch the rest of the 8th and maybe more.
• 12:14...Sacrifice Fly by Early then a home run by Jared Hoying 4-1 Grand Lake.
• 12:24...May strikes out after the bases are loaded with two outs to end the inning.
• 12:32...Feldheiser in for Grand Lake to try and secure his second save of the day. Jake Plata up trying to rally the Snakes.
  

Copperheads vs Mariners - Game 1

After one doubleheader was postponed this weekend, Southern Ohio is ready to get one underway today as they welcome in the Grand Lake Mariners. These two split the first doubleheader between the teams almost a month ago. Today, the Copperheads look to keep momentum going after defeating Stark County 4-3 on Friday.

• 5:42 - David Starn strikes out the side to begin the game. It could be a solid day for the Snakes if this is a sign of things to come.
• 5:54 - The Snakes leave two stranded as Mariners pitcher Cal Bowling gets out of a first inning jam.
• 6:00 - Grand Lakes knocks the first hit of the game but Starn holds strong as no damage is done.
• 6:06 - The Copperheads respond with a hit of their own but it does not convert to runs. Game is scoreless through two.
• 6:15 - Little action in the top of the third as Starn continues to be strong in the early going.
• 6:28 - Jeff May knocks an RBI single before the third out is caught at second. It's 1-0 Copperheads heading into the fourth.
• 6:37 - Grand Lake answers as a run comes in off a fielding error by Trent Moses. Jerod Yakubik makes a great diving catch in left and a great throw to the plate to prevent the runner from scoring at third. Starn works out of the inning with the score tied, 1-1.
• 6:43 - Southern Ohio is unable to answer in the bottom of the fourth as the score remains knotted at one.
• 6:51 - Jared Hoying smacks an RBI triple to the right field wall and Matt Hill sends an RBI single up through center as the Mariners take the lead, 3-1.
• 6:59 - A quick bottom of the fifth is in the books as the Snakes do no damage and still trail by two.
• 7:03 - Starn rebounds in fine style to set the Mariners down in order in the sixth.
• 7:10 - The Copperheads are unable to close the gap in the bottom of the sixth. One inning left to try and steal the victory.
• 7:15 - Andy Onak comes in for some relief work and holds Grand Lake scoreless in the final inning.
• 7:26 - The tying run, Sam Mahoney, reaches with one out, but reliever Jamie Feldheiser ends the game before the Copperheads can take advantage. Game one goes to the Mariners.

With the loss, Southern Ohio falls to 14-12 on the year. Game two of tonight's doubleheader will begin in approximately 30 minutes. Brad will bring you the updates here, but you can also listen to the up-to-the-minute action on Power 105.

-Justin S.

Copperheads vs. Terriers

Tonight, Stark County & Southern Ohio will play the make-up game from Wednesday night's rain out. The Copperheads look to get back on track after losing to Licking County 5-4 on Thursday.

• 7:43 - Trent Moses commits an error at third, but no damage is done as Dave Jensen works a solid first inning.
• 7:50 - Jerod Yakubik knocks the first two inning, but is left stranded and the game is scoreless through one.
• 7:55 - Terriers go down in order in a quick second for Jensen.
• 8:02 - Jake Plata drives a two-run shot over the right field wall to make it 2-0. The next three go hitters go in order, but Southern Ohio has drawn first blood.
• 8:12 - Kevin Haas answers in the bottom of the inning with an RBI single to left. Jensen gets out of the inning after giving up only one run, but his control is starting to look shaky.
• 8:18 - The first two batters reach, but Jeff May hits into an inning ending double lead. The Copperheads' lead remains at 1.
• 8:24 - Jensen holds strong and works another scoreless inning. Southern Ohio leads 2-1.
• 8:30 - The Copperheads go down in order. The offense has otherwise been solid, totaling seven hits so far on the night.
• 8:35 - Jensen works yet another scoreless inning, giving up only three hits in the game thus far.
• 8:40 - The quick innings keep coming as the Snakes go down quickly in the fifth.
• 8:46 - After a great double play by Chad Geier, the Green & Gold sit the Terriers down in order.
• 8:55 - Jeff May gets a sacrifice RBI single to tack another run to the Copperheads' slim lead. The teams head into the seventh with Southern Ohio up 3-1.
• 9:10 - New pitcher Greg Frederick closes out the seventh inning as Stark County fails to cut into the lead.
• 9:18 - The Green & Gold go quietly in the seventh, score remains 3-1.
• 9:34 - A bang-bang play that goes Stark County's way brings Florak storming out of the dugout. After he's said his peace, Frederick is pulled for closer Jordan Langley. Stark County is able to tie the game with two more RBI before Langley records all three outs.
• 9:50 - Brian Hiscox comes in to pinch hit with an RBI single, putting the Green & Gold back on top 4-3. New pitcher JD Osborne records the final out of the eighth. Southern Ohio can close out the game here if they can hold on to their slim lead.
• 9:56 - Langley closes the game out in fine style as the side is retired in order. The Copperheads take this game by a final of 4-3.

The Copperheads improve to 14-11 in this campaign while Stark County falls to 9-19. Southern Ohio travels to Cincinnati tomorrow for a double header with the steam before returning to Bob Wren for another two contests on Sunday against the Great Lake Mariners. First pitch tomorrow is set for 5:35 p.m. Tune in to Power 105 to hear Brian and Allie call all the action.

-Justin S.

No shirt, no shoes, no 6.46

After some friendly debate among the three coaches, assistant Tim Culver finally tried to prove what he had been claiming all along--that he had run a 6.46 60-yard dash and that he could still keep his time below 7 seconds. Pitching coach Chris Moore was at the forefront of Culver's opposition and predicted no better than a 7.4 posting from the first-year coach.

After the frustrating 5-4 loss last night, the coaches decided that it was time to settle the issue. To prep for the run, Culver took off his shirt and even his shoes (an interesting decision). Unfortunately for the California native, the three sprints yielded times upwards of 7.6.

"I saw him run five, maybe even four, steps," Moore said. "And I knew he couldn't run a 7."

After the less-than-stellar performance from Culver, the former speedster announced his intent to train for a week and improve his time. We will make sure to keep you posted of his journey.

To quench your Copperheads' thirst before another exhilarating run from Culver, here are some news and notes on the Copperheads:

• Southern Ohio was swept in the season series against Licking County. The Copperheads were swept by one team last year as well (Lima). The only other team the Copperheads have yet to defeat this season is Cincinnati, the squad that the Green and Gold will see Saturday.
• Speaking of Saturday, the Copperheads will send Andy Carter and David Starn out against the Steam in the twin bill. Dave Jensen, the league leader with a 0.00 ERA and a .109 opponents batting average, will toe the rubber tonight against Stark County.
• No word on the status of Tyler Gatrell's availability for this weekend, but after last night's performance, the Copperheads would surely love to have the right-handed junior.
• Ryan Burnett continues to miss time, as he now has an infection on his left knee. His return to the lineup is unknown, but Pat Glass is taking advantage. The freshman is hitting .278 (5-for-18) after a tough start to the season. 
• The Copperheads lost for the first time last night when leading after seven innings. 
• Until last night, Southern Ohio had outscored opponents 30-15 from the eighth inning on.
• The Copperheads are proud to announce that last night's attendance was 1,209, the highest total in team history. That is the third time that the Copperheads have drawn at least 1,000 people to a game, with two of the occasions coming this season.
• My broadcast partner Allie LaForce will sing the National Anthem before tonight's game against Stark County.

Coverage starts on Power 105 at 7:15 p.m. E-mail us at copperheadsradio@copperheadbaseball.com.

- Brian

Copperheads Clash with Licking County

The Southern Ohio Copperheads clash tonight with Licking County Settlers.

7:55...Bottom of the second, scoreless and hitless here in Southern Ohio.

7:59...The Copperheads add one run to go up 1-0 in the bottom of the second on a sac fly by Jeff May.

8:01...One out double for Jake Plata. Runners on second and third for the Copperheads.

8:05...Trimbur walks Brian Hiscox to load the bases. One out. Pat Glass at the plate.

8:06...Glass walks and a run scores...However, Geier grounds into a double play ending the inning.

8:14...Yakubik leads off the inning with a solo-home run putting Southern Ohio up 3-0.

8:21...Hobson on for the top of the 4th holding a 3-0 lead.

8:25...Hobson in a little bit of a jam. Runners on 2nd and 3rd with only one down.

8:29...He gets out of the jam not allowing any runs and the Snakes still lead 3-0.

8:38...Glass lines out to end the inning, but one run crossed the plate for the Copperheads who now lead...4-0.

8:43...Davis leads off with a double for Licking County and Hobson hits the next batter runners on 1st and 2nd. No outs.

8:49...Out of the jam again. Andy Podolinski in for the Settlers.

8:55...Copperheads are retired but they still lead 4-0 after five innings.

9:23...Copperheads still up 4-0. Rob Moffat in for the Copperheads.

9:29...Brandon Belair in for Moffat. Coming in to face the lefty Seritella.

9:42...Belair in a pinch giving up three runs with two outs and Licking County is now within one run at 4-3.

9:47...An error by Jerod Yakubik gets two runs in and Licking County leads 5-4.

10:06...Fear strikes out looking. Copperheads had two men on base looking to take the lead but couldn't close the deal.

10:14...Good top of the ninth for Langley Copperheads down one with Trace Fowler up.

Tonight's game postponed

No word on a make-up date, but both this Friday (7/24) and next Friday (7/31) are mutual off days between the Copperheads and the Terriers. I will keep you updated on the progress toward a make-up date. Southern Ohio will take on Licking County tomorrow. Allie LaForce and I will kick off coverage on Power 105 at 7:15 p.m. for the Settlers and the Snakes. 

UPDATE (9:15 p.m.): The game will be played Friday, July 24th at Bob Wren Stadium. Information is available at copperheadbaseball.com.

- Brian

Hanging (and Bowling) with the Snakes

When I was young, all I wanted to do was be a baseball player. I was convinced that I was going to do it. No problem.

Then reality set in, and I was done with my dreams. But today, I could have gone toe-to-toe with the Copperheads...at the bowling alley. 

Today was the first ever "Hang out with the Heads." Around 20 local kids had a chance to bowl, watch a movie with and talk to some of the Copperheads. 

My bowling career was much more successful than my baseball career, and I even won the Cleveland Plain Dealer Bowler of the Year (and I can prove it), which by the way was a complete and utter fluke. I had one really good series, and that was the series that determined the award winner. I didn't even know about it, so I can't claim that I am "clutch." 

But I had the chance today to take on the Copperheads on the bowling alley. However, I couldn't make it. Now I will sulk in all of my bowling and baseball fame (which is about as humbling as a strikeout swinging) and give you some news and notes on the Copperheads:

• The Copperheads and Servants are in talks about a make-up date for the rainout July 11. No date has been selected, and there still is no guarantee that it will be made up. However, an effort is being made by Southern Ohio.
• Interesting to note: Southern Ohio has the fewest strikeouts (131, or 5.7 per game) and double plays (3) offensively in the league. For a team that was hitting .197 through 16 games, that is pretty surprising (and impressive).
• The one concerning stat pitching wise is the team's 105 walks. Almost five walks per game cannot sit well with the coaching staff, even if the pitchers have been great.
• Jordan Langley leads the league with seven saves (I know the stats say six, but he should have received a save in the June 18 win against Stark County and has not yet--it will be changed). He has 18 Ks in 13 innings. When he comes in, opponents look silly. 
• Langley is such a contrast from Chuck Boring, the Copperheads' closer in '07 and '08. Boring was the least boring closer out there, as he made things interesting during seemingly every ninth inning. Langley is fun to watch in a different (and less stressful) way.
• Dave Jensen leads the league with a 0.00 ERA and a .107 opponents batting average. Jensen has walked nine, but he has been able to navigate his way out of trouble and only allow one run (unearned) in 17 and two thirds innings.
• Special thanks to Aaron Rieck for adjusting our website to accommodate for this blog, the audio page and the twitter. Everything can be accessed on the left side of the homepage (copperheadbaseball.com) because of Mr. Rieck's handiwork. 

We will take the air Wednesday at 7:15 p.m. for a first pitch at about 7:30 p.m. As always, e-mail your thoughts to copperheadsradio@copperheadbaseball.com. 

- Brian

Six straight for the Snakes

Southern Ohio is rolling. The Copperheads have won six in a row and are one win away from a weekend sweep of the Lake Erie Monarchs.

Here are some tidbits from the Super 8 in Adrian, Mich.:

• Tomorrow's game will now begin at 12 p.m., which is an hour earlier than the original start time.
• The Copperheads scored 47 runs in their first 16 games, which was good for 2.9 runs per game. In the last six games, the Snakes have scored the same number of runs. That's good for 7.8 runs per contest.
• Southern Ohio's pitching staff now has a 3.05 ERA. Two pitchers, and David's (Jensen and Starn) have yet to allow a run. Starn has worked 18 innings, Jensen 17 and two-thirds.
• The Copperheads produced a pair of errorless performances after committing four defensive miscues Friday night.
• With the two wins Saturday, the Copperheads have eclipsed their road win total from 2008. Southern Ohio went 6-14 last year away from Bob Wren Stadium, but the squad is 7-4 this year away from home.
• Seth Bynum, a former Copperhead, played in the Triple-A All-Star game Wednesday night. He is a Syracuse Chief in the Washington Nationals' organization. The second baseman went 1-for-4 with a run scored in the International League's 6-5 win over the Pacific Coast League.
• I had a chance to share two interviews with pitcher Cameron Hobson and third baseman Trent Moses on the Sears Sports Fan, a weeknight talk show in Athens. You can go to thesportsfan.mypodcast.com and download the episode, which aired Thursday.

Allie LaForce and I are ready to bring you a sweep chance for the Green and Gold Sunday at high noon. Tune in beginning at 11:45 a.m. on copperheadbaseball.com. E-mail into the broadcast at copperheadsradio@copperheadbaseball.com.

- Brian

A Wacky Weekend at the Wren

It may have been wacky, but it worked for the Copperheads against Anderson. The offense woke up, and the pitching staff dominated after the third inning of game one.

Here are some notes from the Snakes' weekend sweep of the Servants:

• From the fourth inning of game one on, the Copperheads outscored Anderson 27-1 and outhit Anderson 36-11.
• Now, Southern Ohio is averaging 3.9 runs per game. Coming into the weekend, the Copperheads were averaging 2.9 runs per contest.
• The three-game winning streak is the longest of the season for Southern Ohio and the team's longest winning streak since the squad won seven in a row from July 19-24, 2008. This is the first point all season that the Copperheads are above the break-even point.
• The Servants and Copperheads still have one more game that should be played this season. No date has been announced. The only days down the stretch that both teams have off are July 20, July 29, and July 31. 
• The Copperheads' players have been given the four-day all-star break off. 
• Assistant Tim Culver will represent the Copperheads as a coach in Cincinnati at the All-Star Game Wednesday. A broadcast of that game will be available at greatlakesleague.org.

Since this blog did not make it to an all-star game, it will be given the three-day break off as well. The Copperheads return to action this weekend at Lake Erie, which is located in Adrian, Mich. Friday's series-opener begins at 7:00 p.m. Allie LaForce and I will greet you at 6:45 p.m. exclusively on copperheadbaseball.com. 

As always, you can e-mail into the broadcast at copperheadsradio@copperheadbaseball.com. 

- Brian

Servants vs. Copperheads

5:28...First Pitch from Andy Carter. One walk and one hit but no runs.

5:43...Trent Moses a two-out RBI single that scored Jerod Yakubik. 1-0 Copperheads.

5:45...Jeff May sends home Moses with an RBI double to right field. Southern Ohio has the bats rolling up 2-0.

5:51...Sam Mahoney a 3-run shot over the right field fence and Southern Ohio leads 6-0.

6:07...Carter gives up one run in the top of the second on an interference call but still leads 6-1.

6:19...Carter rolls through the top of the third. 6-1.

6:39... A little mixup. Trent Moses grounded into a 4-3 which was the second out of the inning. However, the umpires thought it was out number 3. A little mixup, I had to go down on the field to straighten things up with the umpires. Southern Ohio adds two runs in the bottom of the third and now leads 8-1.

6:48...Carter again rolls through the top of the 4th. 8-1 Copperheads.

7:06...Matthew Robertson comes in to relieve Carter and sends them down in order.

7:19...Copperheads on second and third with Chad Geier at the plate.

7:26...Southern Ohio adds a run in the 5th. 10-1.

7:47... Scoreless bottom of the 6th for Southern Ohio. Matthew Robertson still on the hill going into the 7th inning.

8:00...Copperheads have bases loaded after a Jerod Yakubik walk. No Outs.

8:02...Thoma comes in to pinch hit and grounds into a double play but one run scores. 11-1.

8:05..Trent Moses an RBI single puts Southern Ohio up 12-1.

8:18...Robertson cruises through the top of the 8th. Bottom 8 with Copperheads up 12-1.

8:22...Newly signed Trace Fowler doubles with two outs.

8:24...Fowler scores to add another run 13-1 Copperheads.

8:28...Robertson on to finish the game.

Copperheads vs. Servants - Game One

Well, after some stormy weathered postponed yesterday's doubleheader, we're ready to pick things back up today. David Starn is on the mound for Southern Ohio as Joey Gradney will go for Anderson.

• 2:42 - Starn beans the first batter but is saved by a fine double play. He fans the third batter as Anderson goes down 1-2-3 to start the game.
• 2:51 - Taylor Davis knocks a single for the first hit of the game, but no damage is done as Trent Moses flies out to end the first.
• 3:00 - Another solid inning by Starn as the Servants once again go down in order.
• 3:11 - Marrero is caught in a rundown for out number one. Jeff May hits an RBI single to left and the Copperheads draw first blood. Inning ends with Southern Ohio carrying a 1-0 lead.
• 3: 16 - Quick inning as Starn keeps the Servants scoreless and hitless through the first three.
• 3:26 - Geier and Yakubik both reach to start the inning. The bases are left loaded though, as the next three batters go down. Copperheads lead remains 1-0.
• 3:35 - Starn gives up the first couple hits of the ballgame, but keeps the goose egg as Anderson leaves two stranded.
• 3:48 - The Snakes bring in another run to push their lead to 2-0 after four innings.
• 3:55 - Starn continues his strong outing as Southern Ohio once again holds the Servants scoreless.
• 4:03 - A slow inning for the offense in a game where it has otherwise been steady throughout. Southern Ohio does no damage but maintain a 2-0 lead with two innings left.
• 4:13 - Another easy-going inning on an easy-going afternoon at the park. Nothing too fancy needed as the Green & Gold continues to keep Anderson in check.
• 4:28 - Josh Johnson now in to pitch for the Servants. Jeff May knocks a single for the Snakes' eighth hit of the game. New face Trace Fowler walks in his first AB of the season. Geier knocks a single into left as May is thrown out at home. Yakubik continues his hot streak with a two-run triple to deep center. Davis adds to that lead with an RBI double to left. Moses goes down to end the inning. Southern Ohio now takes a 5-0 lead into the final frame.
• 4:35 - Starn finishes the complete game shutout of Anderson, holding them to only four hits on the day. The Copperheads take game one 5-0.

The Green & Gold have taken the first two against the Servants, reaching the .500 mark yet again at 9-9. They now look to complete the sweep and go above .500 for the first time this year. First pitch is set for 5:30 p.m. Brad Zahar will bring the blog updates while Brian Boesch and Allie Laforce will call all the action on Power 105.

-Justin S.

GAME POSTPONED

Southern Ohio and Anderson will not play today (Saturday). There will be a doubleheader tomorrow, beginning at 2:30 p.m. The field was simply too wet after a solid batch of rain passed through Athens. 

Tune in tomorrow at 2:15 p.m. for the pregame show on Power 105 and online at copperheadbaseball.com.

- Brian

Rain Delay and Notes on the Comeback Win

The Copperheads and Servants will play one game today (Saturday) at approximately 7:30 p.m. Steady rain has passed through Southeastern Ohio, so the field has been taking a steady beating. Sunday will now be a doubleheader at a time to be announced. 

Time will tell on the status of tonight's game. It is still raining as I type, but with a lot of parents in town and this being Anderson's only trip to Athens, they are going to try to get at least one game in tonight. Keep track of the situation here on the Copperheads' blog and at Twitter.com/GoCopperheads.

As for last night's thrilling 9-8 victory, here are some stats:

• Southern Ohio is now 6-2 on the season in one-run games and 2-1 in extra inning affairs.
• For the Copperheads, it was their first win in six tries when trailing after seven innings.
• The Copperheads averaged 2.9 runs per game coming into the game and responded with their highest run and hit (12) total of the season.
• The Snakes had only one home run before yesterday, and they hit three. 
• The attendance came in at 1,119, the highest total in the eight-year history of this organization.

The rewind from the game is available at the Copperheads' podcast (available HERE), playing over the popular song "Don't Stop Believing." Also on the podcast are interviews with coach Mike Florak, Jerod Yakubik, Jeff May and Trent Moses. 

It was a fun night. Let's see if the Green and Gold can do it again.

- Brian 

Copperheads vs. Servants

7:37...Andy Onak delivers first pitch

7:56...Copperheads get two guys into scoring position (2nd and 3rd) but Brian Hiscox cannot deliver grounding out to short.

8:06...Top 2nd, Bases loaded with one out and Jimmy Roesinger at the plate and Onak walks home a run on four pitches.

8:11...Onak walks home another batter to make it 2-0. His day is done,

8:16...Nick Egan gives up a bases clearing triple to Tyler Langford to put Anderson up 6-0.

8:38...A two-run top of the second for Anderson puts the Servants up 8-0.

8:57...Copperheads trying to rally, two outs with Zach Thoma up.


9:07...Greg Frederick on to pitch the 5th inning down 8. Doesn't matter as he sends the Servants down 1-2-3 to close out the inning.

9:20...Servants leave two on base, but Moffat who came into pitch walked the 10th batter of the night. Copperheads still down 8-0.

9:36...Brannon Belair steps up and pitches a good seventh but walks the 11th batter of the game. The bats are still quiet for Southern Ohio as they've left 8 on base.

9:46...Travis Eggeman on for the Servants and Jerod Yakubik takes him out of the yard for Southern Ohio's 6th hit and a two-run shot. Nice work by the all-star.

10:05...Brian Hiscox leads off the inning with a double. Fear comes in to pinch hit for Plata and delivers an RBI single. 8-3 Anderson

10:17...Jerod Yakubik up with two out and the bases loaded.

10:19...He delivers a 2RBI single to put the Snakes to within 3 at 8-5.

10:25...Jordan Langley on to pitch the top of the 9th for Southern Ohio.

10:32...Error on the shortstop and Trent Moses is on first with Hiscox up.

10:35...Hiscox strikes out. One down. Moses on first. Marrero at the bat.

10:37...Two-run shot for Justin Marrero!!!! 8-7 Copperheads down only one.

10:41...Brad Schnepp on the mound and Jeff May an RBI double for Southern Ohio ties the ball game at 8.

10:50...May at 3rd nothing going. Extra frames. Jordan Langley rolls through the top of the 10th.

11:05...Trent Moses hits the walk-off winner!!! Copperheads come back from 8-0 to win 9-8!!!!

BREAKING: Four Copperhead All-Stars

IF/OF Jerod Yakubik (Jr., Ohio University), IF Trent Moses (So., Southeast Missouri State University), SP David Starn (Fr., Kent State University) and SP Cameron Hobson (Fr., University of Dayton) will be representing the Copperheads in the 2009 GLSCL All-Star Game, which will be played at Western Hills High School (the home of the Cincinnati Steam) Wednesday, July 15.

The process of selection is fairly simple. Each team in the top five of the standings receive four automatic choices, which are made by each team's coaching staff. The Copperheads, as of July 6, were in fifth place. The normal protocol is for a team to provide three position players and one pitcher, but with the Copperheads' offensive struggles, Commissioner Kim Lance made an exception for Southern Ohio.

The Snakes may have some more all-stars come next Wednesday. Each team is also required to supply six "alternates." From this pool of 60 players, 17 additional players will be selected to the team. Players like Jordan Langley and Dave Jensen are expected to be on the Copperheads' list of alternates, along with a few others.

Yakubik leads the team with a .308 batting average and nine RBIs. Moses is second on the team with a .292 average and four runs driven in. Starn has pitched 11 scoreless innings, striking out 12 batters. Hobson is just 1-3, but he sports a 2.57 ERA and has struck out 21 batters, which is tied for fourth in the league.

Last year, the Copperheads sent three players to Cincinnati for the festivities. A full release will be available on copperheadbaseball.com once the entire team has been named.

Steady as She Goes

0-0, 1-1, 2-2, 4-4, 5-5, 6-6 and now 7-7. The Copperheads cannot get away from mediocrity, but right now, in the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League, that will do the trick. The Copperheads sit in fifth place in the 10-team league, and six teams receive an invitation to the league tournament in Xenia. 

With a doubleheader against the Settlers of Licking County, here are some tidbits to chew on:

• The rotation for this week is as follows: Cameron Hobson and Dave Jensen tomorrow, Andy Onak Friday, Andy Carter and TBA Saturday and David Starn Sunday.
• Last season, the Copperheads experienced a seven-game winning streak to go along with six- and seven-game losing skids. This year? Seven visits with good ol' .500, and no streak either way longer than two games.
• The Snakes exceeded the 10-hit mark for the first time this season in the 4-3 win Sunday night against Xenia. For the year, Southern Ohio is averaging only 6.5 hits per game.
• With yet another one-run game (and win) against Xenia, the Copperheads have taken seven of their last eight against the Scouts, dating back to 2007. Seven of those games have been decided by one run, and the other one went into the 11th inning, with Southern Ohio taking it 6-3.
• The WXTQ stream that was not working last night is now functioning properly, so future broadcasts on Power 105 should be set to go. The Copperheads apologize for the inconvenience during Sunday's game.
• Pictures taken at home games are being added to our Flickr account, which can be accessed by clicking HERE.

The Copperheads and Licking County Settlers (10-6, 3rd place) will battle in a doubleheader Tuesday at 4:00 p.m. I will take the air at 3:45 p.m. and take you through the afternoon and evening on copperheadbaseball.com. Highlights and interviews, as always, are available at copperheads.mypodcast.com. 

E-mail into the broadcast: copperheadsradio@copperheadbaseball.com. I will talk to you Tuesday afternoon.

- Brian

Copperheads vs. Scouts

7:00...here we are on a beautiful evening at Bob Wren Stadium for the Copperheads v. Scouts. I'm excited as Xenia is looking to improve their 7-11 standing while Southern Ohio looks to edge to the .500 mark with a victory tonight.

7:40...Kent State's David Starn throws the first pitch. Game Underway.

7:50...Starn cruises through the top of the first and the Copperheads got an infield single, but nothing matured as Sam Mahoney fouled off a first pitch to the catcher. 0-0.

8:00...Taylor Davis drops a foul ball that would have ended the inning, but a liner back to Starn gets the Snakes out of the inning with Xenia stranding a runner on 1st and 2nd. Still scoreless.

8:10...Justin Marrero a 2 out RBI triple that scores Michael Fear to put the Copperheads up 1-0. Fear would have been out at home but the catcher went to apply the tag only to drop the ball.

8:23...David Starn strikes out two in the top of the 3rd and keep the 'Heads up 1-0 with the Scouts on only one hit.

8:27...Taylor Davis an RBI double scores Yakubik who doubled in the previous at bat. 2-0 Copperheads.

8:42...Starn gives up a hit and a walk in the top of the 4th, but nothing going for Xenia as the Copperheads roll keeping a 2-0 going into the bottom of the 4th with Plata up.

9:06...Nothing going in the 4th and 5th innings. Scouts tab 2 more hits and the Snakes get another hit but it's still 2-0 Heads but going into the sixth Rob Moffat is on the hill replacing David Starn who pitched 5 scoreless innings.

9:17...The Scouts rally with 2 runs here off Rob Moffat with one out and action in the Copperheads bullpen.

9:22...Moffat's day is done after the Scouts take the lead 3-2. Andy Carter comes in and retires the first batter he faces.

9:42...Scoreless bottom of the 6th and the Copperheads now have Carter on the hill to pitch the top of the 7th down 3-2 against the Scouts.

9:48...Copperheads keep Xenia scoreless in the top of the seventh. Barry Benton on the hill for the Scouts trying to protect a one-run lead.

9:56...Ryan Burnett an RBI single to send home Justin Marrero tying the game at 3 with two outs.

9:58...Jerod Yakubik sends home Marrero and the Copperheads take a 4-3 lead.

10:05...Copperheads get runners on 2nd and 3rd but couldn't add any more runs. Still a 4-3 Snakes lead going into the 8th inning.

10:08...Tyler Gatrell comes in to pitch for Southern Ohio in the top of the 8th.

10:21...Jordan Langley on the mound to close out the game for the Copperheads. Strikes out

Off, Off and Off

When I asked coach Mike Florak what the schedule would be for this three-day break from games, he simply responded with "off, off and off." So the players, after a busy and congested 17 days, get three days to themselves.

A few tidbits to chew on prior to Independence Day:

• The Licking County-Southern Ohio doubleheader scheduled for Tuesday will begin at 4:00 PM. It will be a seven-inning game followed by a nine-inning game. Game one will be the make-up affair from June 25, when rain ended the contest just three innings into the game.
• With their four-hit performance against the Terriers Wednesday, the Copperheads are hitting a league-worst .197 as a team. The second worst hitting team in the league (Hamilton) is hitting .228. The club is slugging just .269, and Southern Ohio has a .284 on-base percentage.
• What is keeping the Green and Gold in games is their pitching (obviously). The Copperheads are third in the league with a 3.28 ERA. Per game, Southern Ohio pitchers are striking out 7.7 batters, the best clip in the GLSCL.
• The Copperheads are planning on bringing another pitcher aboard, along with another infielder. The deadline to add players without dropping another player due to injury is July 15.
• Southern Ohio sits in 5th place through 13 games. The Copperheads are 2-5 against the four teams ahead of them and 4-2 against the five teams below them.
• The Copperheads held a free baseball clinic Thursday morning in Athens, and approximately 70 kids attended. The entire Southern Ohio coaching staff, along with about half of the roster, helped during the three-hour event. A great showing for a first-year program.
• We have been promoting it on the broadcasts, so it deserves mention here. Friday, July 10, is the first ever fireworks show in Copperheads' history. There will be a fireworks display after the 7:30 p.m. contest between the Snakes and the Anderson Servants. The organization is hoping to break the all-time attendance mark, which was set last year in the home finale against Delaware (1,109).

The blog is off until Sunday's live blog, when Brad Zahar tells you all about the Copperheads and the Scouts. Allie LaForce and I take the air at 7:15 p.m. for a rare weekend singleheader on Power 105 and copperheadbaseball.com. Until then, enjoy the 4th!

- Brian

Copperheads vs. Stark County Terriers

It's another midsummer night's dream... an evening at the ballpark.  Under some pretty cloudy skies, the Copperheads (6-6) look to get above .500 for the first time this season as they welcome in the Stark County Terriers (5-9).  Word is the weather should hold out for an entire nine innings to be played.  We'll keep you posted throughout the game.  Let's play ball...

• 7:40 - Great play by Justin Marrero to get the bang-bang play at first for out number one. Solid first inning for Cameron Hobson as the Terriers to go 1-2-3.   It's these kind of innings that the Copperheads offense needs to take advantage of.
• 7:47 - Burnett and Geier go down to start the inning, but Yakubik reaches third after being beaned.  Davis lines out to third to end the inning.
• 7:54 - I just received the keys to my new car.  Not really, hopefully someone claims them, are they're walking home.  Back to baseball, Hobson looks solid early on as he fans McCoury, Sherwood, and Corfman for a quick inning.  
• 8:00 - Plata is thrown out at first to start the inning.  Trent Moses knocks the first hit of the game into center field, but Sam Mahoney lines one right back to the pitcher for the inning ending double play.
• 8:08 - Mark Lapikas reaches first on a Chad Geier error, adding another to his growing list.  He redeems himself with a good double play attempt, but the throw from second by Marrero is a little high.  Hiscox snags it and appears to tag Katich on his way down before he reaches first, but he's called safe, sending the crowd into a bit of a frenzy (I agree with them).  Hobson continues to be strong as he holds the Terriers hitless and scoreless through the first three.
• 8:14 - This game has been scorching fast as the Southern Ohio hitters go 1-2-3 in another quick inning.
• 8:26 - A foul ball into the stand right behind home plate almost takes out several fans.  Perfect time to remind them to return foul balls to staff members (leading to a couple boo birds).   Hobson gives up his first hit of the night to Kevin Haas.  Ferrell is retired, but McCoury's double to the right field wall give the Terriers a 1-0 lead.  Corfman is then beaned to put men on first & second, and Hobson's mistakes are beginning to show.  After a meeting on the mound, he comes back to sit the last two batters down.  Good rebound for #26. 
• 8:32 - First two batter go down, but Davis reaches on an error by the second baseman.  Plata flies out to right, however, and no damage is done.  That bats are gonna have to get a little more active for the Snakes to pull this one out.
• 8:41 - Similar to the last half-inning, the first two batters are sat down, but Thompkons singles past Marrero to occupy first.  He steals second with no pickoff attempt from Davis.  No damage is done, however, as Haas is struck out to end the inning.
• 8:50 - The rain has begun to fall at the stadium as fans head for cover.  Moses & Mahoney go down to start the inning, but big Brian Hiscox comes back to double down the left field line.  Marrero flies out to right and Hiscox is left stranded.  It remains 1-0 Stark County. 
• 8:59 - Ferrell gets a leadoff bloop single into left.  McCoury strikes out before Ferrell moves to second and then third on the steals. Sherwood strikes out and Corfman lines out to third to end the inning.  Hobson is racking up the K's and still looking in good form. 
• 9:17 - Burnett beats out a throw to first to get the leadoff single.  Geier moves him over with a fine sac bunt.  On an side note, pitching coach Chris Moore has strangely made two straight visits to the mound for the opposing pitcher.  Yakubik flies out to left as Burnett tags and heads to third.  Davis is walked to put men on the corners, leading to a meeting on the mound.  With an 0-2 count, Davis is able to steal second, putting the go-ahead run in scoring position.  Shortstop Joe Bogdewiecz makes a great diving catch to save two runs and the score remains 1-0.
• 9:26 - Mark Lapikas ground out for out number one.  Hobson's day is done after a solid day, giving up four hits and one run over 5 1/3 innings.  Now it's Nick Egan's turn.  Katich lines one to the third baseman, but a great catch Trent Moses saves a hit.  Bogdewiecz grounds out to end the inning.  Three innings left for Southern Ohio to make up this short deficit.
• 9:36 - JD Osborne is now on the mound for Stark County.  Moses walks to start the inning, bringing up Mahoney, who grounds into the double play.  Hiscox walks to reoccupy first as Pat Glass is brought in to pinch run.  Marrero flies out to end the inning and the Copperheads stay with the goose egg.  
• 9:51 - Thompkins gets the leadoff single to right field.  Haas lays down the bunt and the runners advance to second and third on the error at first.  Ferrell flies out to deep center, allowing bother runners to advance and push the Terriers' lead to two.  Egan's night is done as Tyler Gatrell comes out of the bullpen.  He strikes out McCoury & intentionally walks Sherwood to bring up Corfman.  Sherwood advances to second as Corfman strikes out to end the inning.  Solid first go for Gatrell.
• 9:58 - Matt Rosinski's now in to pitch for the Terriers and gets Burnett to ground out for the first out.  The list of great catches by Stark County is growing as a nice running catch by Sherwood robs Geier of an extra-base hit.  Yakubik grounds out to first to end the inning and the Copperheads remain scoreless through eight.
• 10:16 - Someone FINALLY claimed the car keys after four announcements.  On the field, Gatrell walks Lapikas to start the inning but comes back to fan Katich.  Bogdewiecz grounds to the second baseman but is safe off the error at first.  Credit him with the RBI... it's now 3-0.  Dave Jensen is now in to pitch, hoping to get the last two outs.  He strikes out Thompkins before intentionally walking Haas to bring up Ferrell.  The first baseman bobbles the grounder but gets Ferrell just in time to end the inning. Do-or-die time for the Copperheads.
• 10:25 - Davis walks to start the inning & advances to second on a wild pitch.  Plata grounds to second for out number one.  Moses singles to right field to put men at the corners.  Mahoney grounds into the forceout at second, but brings Davis home to make it 3-1.  That would be all-she-wrote, however, as pinch-hitting Michael Fear flies out to deep left to end the game.

The Copperheads registered five hits, one run, and three errors on the night & fall to 6-7.  Stark County improves to 6-9 as they register five hits, three runs, and one error on the night.  Southern Ohio now has a long break to prepare for Sunday when the Xenia Scouts come back to town.  First pitch is set for 7:30 p.m. and, as always, you can catch all the action with Brian Boesch and Allie LaForce on Power 105.  

-Justin Sampson

Where's the O?

The offense has been struggling all season long. Obviously, switching from aluminum to wooden (OK, OK, composite) bats is a struggle. The team is hitting .202 (69-for-341). After game one of the doubleheader against Hamilton, the average was below .200, at .196. 

Some other notable numbers and notes as the Green and Gold get ready for game 12 against Xenia tonight:

• Only one Copperheads (Jerod Yakubik, .333) is hitting above .257.
• Only two players (Yakubik, 8, and Thoma, 6) have more than four runs batted in, and Thoma has not played much after a hot start. 
• Through 11 games, the squad has only attempted 14 stolen bases, successfully swiping 10 of them. 
• And the team just got its first home run of the year yesterday, a solo blast by Sam Mahoney when it was 8-0 Joes. 
• Add it all up, and there is really no threat facing opposing pitching on paper. Just make your pitches, and the Copperheads will go down...at least that's how it is now. 
• The new addition of Zach Botjer (P-Sinclair Community College) has worked wonders. In two appearances, Botjer has thrown four scoreless innings.
• The other recent addition, sophomore pitcher Andy Carter from Shawnee State, will start tonight for the Snakes against Xenia.
• Looking ahead on the schedule, after tonight's roadie against the Scouts, the Copperheads will make only one more road trip until July 17th (July 7, a doubleheader against Licking County). A nice little break for a team that has faced a very condensed, busy schedule through two weeks in 2009.
• Chuck Boring, the all-time saves leader in Copperheads' history for his work in 2007 and 2008, pitched just three times for the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown this past spring because of a bad lower back. He is hoping for a medical redshirt so that he can pitch his senior season in 2010.
• Xenia, the location of tonight's game, will host the GLSCL tournament for the second consecutive year. It is also the new home for the Sinclair Community College baseball program. According to Sinclair head coach Steve Dintaman, there will be a press box ready for the playoffs, which means Allie and I will be outside calling this one. Should be fun.

Tune in starting at 6:45 on copperheadbaseball.com. We will have the rewind from last night's split, the Mike Florak Show, and some comments from tonight's starter Andy Carter. E-mail in, as always, to media+pr@copperheadbaseball.com. Enjoy the game.

- Brian

Copperheads vs. Joes--Game 2

7:57...first pitch of game two from Andy Onak. Copperheads aiming to sweep after a 2-1 victory in game one.

8:03...Kyle Weldon a 2-run bomb to put the Joe's up 3-0. This is his second of the day.

8:10...5 run first inning for the Joes. An error by 3rd baseman Trent Moses allowed a run to score and advance 3 bases. A big hole to climb out of early in the ball game.

8:25...Joes add another run 6-0 going into the bottom of the second.

8:40...A scoreless third inning for the Joes is a start. Onak recorded three K's to keep the score 6-0.

8:54...Weldon is up with no outs and the bases loaded. Onak is still in the game.

9:00...Joes add another run to go up 8-0 over the Copperheads.

9:05...Zach Botjer comes into the game. The Sinclair Community College product made his debut yesterday striking out the side.

9:15...Sam Mahoney hits a solo home run to right field for the first homerun of the season for Southern Ohio. Snakes still down 8-1.

9:22...an error on Hamilton's first baseman leads to four runs for the Copperheads a Jerod Yakubik double now has Southern Ohio down only 4 at 8-4.

9:28... Copperheads rally on an error and wild pitch by the Hamilton Joes. Justin Marrero flied out to center field, but the damage was done Southern Ohio scores 5 runs in the bottom of the fifth to pull to within 3 at 8-5.

9:46... Copperheads hold the Joes scoreless without a run after having two on with no outs. Bottom 6 with another chance to cut into the lead.

9:52...Nothing going...Headed into the top of the 7th down 8-5.

10:06...Scoreless 7th inning for both teams. Gatrell replaces Botjer. Botjer has seen some quality playing time since making his debut yesterday though. Still 8-5 Joes in the top of the 8th.

10:38...Brad Krohman on to get the save for the Joes. Bottom 9 with Ryan Burnett up trying to start the comeback.

Hamilton Joes vs. Copperheads Doubleheader - Game 1

Justin Sampson here, back at Bob Wren for another Sunday afternoon double header between the Southern Ohio Copperheads (4-5) and the Hamilton Joes (3-8).  Sitting in ninth place in the league, the Joes are coming in fresh off a sweep of Stark County while the Copperheads split a double header with league-leading Grand Lake on Saturday.  Should be a good matchup and a great opportunity for the Copperheads to gain some momentum.  

• 4:30 - It's half dollar dog day at the ballpark, and we just overhead confirmation from Drake Bolon that the grill is being fired up.  The game can now begin.
• 5:30 - Matthew Robertson will be getting the start for Southern Ohio while Wesley Rehmert of Urbana University will go for the Joes.
• 5:43 - Tyler Schunk reaches on an error by Chad Geier, but the shortstop redeems himself by getting the inning-ending unassisted double play.  No damage done in the first.
• 5:55 - With two outs in the top of the first, the Copperheads are going to work.  Taylor Davis doubled to the right field wall to score Yakubik, followed by a Trent Moses double to left to score Davis.  Jake Plata flies out to left to end the first, but Southern Ohio draws first blood and holds a 2-0 lead.  
• 6:04 - Sullivan and Jones reach first & second with one out.  Sullivan is caught in a huge lead at second & is thrown out.  Tim Tepe flies out to dead center to end the inning.  Hamilton remains scoreless.  
• 6:11 - Hiscox's line drive kicks off the third baseman's glove to put him on first.  Marrero tries to bring him around but is robbed as left fielder Kyle Weldon makes the best diving catch at Bob Wren this season.  Fear strikes out and Burnett sends a dribbler up the third the third base line, but is just thrown out.  
• 6:18 - Haddad is walked on four straight balls and moves to second as first baseman Michael Fear decides to field a slow liner by Bauer that possibly could've gone foul.  No damage is done though as Tyler Schunk is thrown at at first to end the inning.  
• 6:23 - Geier flies out to center for out number one.  Yakubik strikes out and Davis flies out to first to finish off this frame.  Copperheads lead 2-0 after three in front of a solid crowd on a beautiful Sunday evening.
• 6:34 - First pitch of the fourth becomes a homer by Kyle Weldon.  Second round-tripper at Bob Wren this season.  Mathis walks on four straight balls, leading to a meeting on the mound.  The next two batters fly out, but Tepe is beaned to put men on first & second.  Haddad grounds out to first, inning is over.  Hamilton now trails by one.  Robertson looked a little rattled in that frame... his innings may be numbered.
• 6:44 - Moses & Plata go down to start the inning, but Hiscox walks to put one man on.  Pat Glass comes in to pinch run for the big man.  He never gets the chance, though, as Marrero flies out to center to leave him stranded.
• 6:50 - Quick inning for Robertson as it's three up, three down.  Good comeback inning for number number 30.
• 7:00 - Fear flies out on the first pitch of the bottom of the fifth.  Burnett goes down swinging for out number two.  Geier reaches on an error by Tepe & steals second easily as the catcher, Haddad, bobbles the pitch.  Yakubik walks to put two men on.  
• 7:08 - Robertson's day is done.  Now it's Brannon Belair's turn.  Weldon is out number one and, after a couple long meetings on the mound, Belair comes through in fine style to get the last two outs of the inning.  Not much offense for the Joes so far as they've registered only two hits on the day.  Solid job by the Copperheads pitching staff.
• 7:13 - Once again, first pitch of the inning is a fly-out to center.  Plata grounds out to second, bringing up the pinch hitter, Zach Thoma.  Not too effective as he striked out on three pitches.  One inning of work left for the Copperheads as they maintain their one run lead.
• 7:24 - Jordan Langley comes in to try and close out the game.  I'm seeing a trend here as the first pitch of the inning is once again a fly out, this time by Patrick Jones.  Colton Cattani comes in to pinch hit and gets a single after barely beating out a throw to first.  The tying run is on for Dustin Huff who strikes out for out number two.  Bauer goes down swinging for the final out of game number one.  Copperheads take game one 2-1. 

Southern Ohio has the momentum going into game two of tonight's doubleheader.  After a quick 30-minute break, Brad Zahar will be bringing you the updates as we find out if the Copperheads can make it a clean sweep.  You can also tune in to Power 105 to hear Brian Boesch and Allie LaForce bring you all the action.  

Rain, Rain, Go Away

Ah, the frustrations of rain delays and postponements. The game started 22 minutes late. The first three innings flew by. Then, the Settlers put the tarp on the field around 8 p.m. About 45 minutes later, the rain started. By 10 p.m., the game was finally called. It was an interesting day.

Here are some news and notes on tonight's "game" and other Copperheads' happenings:

• The game will be made up July 7 in Newark. The Copperheads and Settlers were already scheduled to play against each other on that day, so they will play a doubleheader. No word on the start time of the double dip.
• The three innings played Thursday are erased from the statistics. They, in essence, never happened. Thus, the Copperheads' three errors are no more. 
• The Copperheads hit in the batting cages around 3 p.m. today, awaiting a call from Licking County's skipper Kyle Sobecki. Sobecki gave the go-ahead on the game, and Southern Ohio left Athens around 4:30 p.m. The team arrived around 6:15 p.m., stretched, took some infield and got things going.
• The radar was pretty clear until 4:30, but with the humidity the storms developed and ultimately struck. Nothing you can do about it. The two teams had to give it a shot.
• Pitching coach Chris Moore was frustrated about the bad luck. With the schedule the way it is, David Starn, tonight's starting pitcher, probably will not get another start until July 5. After throwing three innings tonight, he is not eligible Saturday or Sunday. He may see some time Monday in a relief role against Xenia. Then, Wednesday's game against Stark County is Cameron Hobson's time in the rotation. Not the ideal situation for the Kent State freshman.
• As mentioned, the Copperheads committed three errors tonight, but none of those count anymore. As a result, the Snakes have not committed an error in their last three contests. Last year's team committed more than two per game. This season's roster defensively is light years ahead of the 2008 version.
• Thursday was pitcher Corey Harness' 21st birthday. He will start Saturday against Grand Lake.

The team will practice tomorrow before a big weekend against Grand Lake (currently 8-1) and Hamilton (currently 1-6). Two doubleheaders, with Saturday's game in Celina and Sunday's in Athens. 

As we have done during the last few broadcasts, we are offering an e-mail address to you, the fans, to join our broadcast. Simply e-mail Allie, Tony and I at media+pr@copperheadbaseball.com and tell us how we are doing. We will mention your message on the air. We don't bite, I promise.

- Brian

Copperheads vs. Scouts

Brad Zahar on hand for this beautiful Wednesday evening from Bob Wren Stadium in Athens, OH. A make-up game originally scheduled for last Friday, but rain kept them from playing. Cameron Hobson, the Freshman All-American, gets the nod tonight. A big night as the Copperheads look to recover after dropping both games Sunday against the Cincinnati Steam.

7:50...Hobson's control struggles early but no damage done. Two strikeouts and only allowed one hit. Geier set to lead off the inning.

8:00...Yakubik steals second after drawing a walk, but nothing going. No score after one.

8:17...Nothing going on offensively. Pitchers battle so far. Two hits for Xenia, none for Southern Ohio.

8:32...Jerod Yakubik a clutch 2 out RBI triple to give Southern Ohio the 1-0 lead after 3 innings. Closest to the pin contest between innings, people had to chip from the hill on the 3rd baseline to a pin just behind 3rd base. Two didn't make it over the left field foul wall while one landed just short of 3rd base.

8:53...Bryan Lucas goes deep to left field for solo shot tying the game at 1. That's his first home run of the year.

9:09...Adam Westbrook replaces Tyler Sanborn on the mound with 2 outs and Chad Geier on 3rd after tripling to right field. Copperheads rally a passed ball scores a run and the Copperheads are now on top 2-1 with 5 innings down.

9:20...Hobson out, Moffat in to pitch.

9:34...Fear an RBI single with two outs and Kyle Atkins is coming in to replace Adam Westbrook. Michael Jackson playing over the PA system...great night at the park with the Copperheads 3-1.

9:50...Scouts add one in the top of the 7th on a sacrifice bunt, the Copperheads still lead 3-2. going into the bottom of the seventh with Thoma to get things going in the bottom frame.

10:00...Copperheads put two on get them both in scoring position but cannot covert. Still a 3-2 lead for Southern Ohio with the top of the 8th approaching. Tyler Gatrell still in for the Snakes.

10:25...Jordan Langley in to close the game out. One down with one on in the top of the ninth.

The week that was

Well, a 2-4 start is not exactly what Southern Ohio wanted after a tough stretch to start the season. It is hard to believe that the team arrived just one week ago today, because there have already been so many switches and roster moves. A few more have been made, too.

Here is the "Copperheads' Catch-Up"

• First, the bad news. As discussed in the game recap by Brad Zahar, Tyler Koors did get hurt on his 70th pitch last night in game two against Cincinnati. Why is that pitch significant? Koors' pitch count was 70 for the night. After an initial look, Koors said that the elbow could require Tommy John surgery. At the very least, it is a 6-to-8 week recovery process. Thus, Koors turned in his gear today and is heading home as I type.
• Not only is this tough because Koors' is a likable product from Xavier, but it means one fewer arm for head coach Mike Florak and pitching coach Chris Moore to use. And Koors has a good arm. Here's hoping he will be OK.
• Koors is not the only arm the Snakes are losing. Anthony Sambula, who appeared in both games and threw two and a third innings and allowed five runs, has decided to leave the team. He wanted to go to the Coastal Plains League, but he already signed a contract with Southern Ohio and the Copperheads' policy is to refuse to release a player so that he can go to another team. So, Sambula's summer is over.
• Former Copperhead Matt Stiffler, an Ohio University alum, is no longer on the Reds' roster page for any of their affiliates. Stiffler, a Copperhead from 2006-08, hit .225 with one home run and 15 runs batted in for the Billings Mustangs in 2008.

As for the seven Copperheads drafted in 2009, six of them have been placed on a team:

• Marc Krauss- South Bend Silver Hawks (Midwest League), A-Affiliate of Arizona
• Jon Pokorny- Helena Brewers (Pioneer League), Rookie-Affiliate of Milwaukee
• Jake Goebbert- Tri-City ValleyCats (New York-Penn League), A-Affiliate of Houston
• Kevan Hess- Oneonta Tigers (New York-Penn League), A-Affiliate of Detroit
• Kevin Winn- Eugene Emeralds (Northwest League), A-Affiliate of San Diego
• Ben Watkins- Staten Island Yankees (New York-Penn League), A-Affiliate of New York Yankees

The only one who has not been placed on a roster is Ryan Robowski, who is in the Arizona organization.

On a light note, the Copperheads will have their annual "Swim with the Snakes" pool party from 9-11 p.m. tonight at the Athens City Pool on East State Street. Come on by and join the fun with the Copperheads and with Power 105.

No blog until Wednesday's live blog, when the Xenia Scouts come to town. Until then, I'm off to Pittsburgh to see the Indians-Pirates at PNC Park. 

- Brian