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The Power Five => SEC => Topic started by: MikeDeTiger on February 24, 2025, 10:08:04 AM

Title: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on February 24, 2025, 10:08:04 AM
Just gonna leave this here for any future comments there might be about beisbol this season. 

I don't keep up with the rest of the league enough anymore to know what kind of slate we'll be playing through, but.....

Stony Brook has been on my mind.  Some might recall they knocked LSU out of their own super-regional in 2012 after the most disastrous weather delay in program history.  A thunderstorm that, imo, eventually snowballed into missing out on a CWS title the next year in 2013.  You might ask how.  After winning game 1 of the Super, LSU was rolling in game 2 when lightning postponed the game, eventually causing the rest of it to be made up the next morning prior to the regularly scheduled game 3 time (if necessary).  The Tigers utterly lost their momentum and intensity, and derped away the remaining innings of game 2.  They never recovered in Game 3 either, which I believe would never have happened if game 2 hadn't been interrupted.  Fast forward a year later, the best overall LSU team I've ever seen goes to Omaha and gets eliminated in immediate fashion, 0-2.  That team was amazing, but lacked the experience on the big stage they needed, and they'd have gotten it had they beaten Stony Brook the year prior.  I have a lot to say about the state of cbb and what the smallball-loving a-holes did to the sport around that time, and how it affected those games, but the truth is in addition to all of that, LSU faltered just a little bit, at high-pressure times, and their lack of experience greatly contributed to their demise. 

Exactly a year ago Stony Brook returned to LSU for a Friday game in an invitational format and handed us a 5-2 loss. 

Bastards. 

I don't understand the joke Longhorn fans have with Wofford, but Stuck Fony Brook, and with good reason. 

Also, I've had PTSD ever since Florida beat us in the 2017 CWS Finals.  Thing is, I actually did think Florida was the better team that year, and the "better team" won.  But I let myself believe too much going into it because I let our own mythos get to me.  LSU had never lost a CWS Final.....when we go all the way, we Geaux.  LSU had also ended Oregon State's insane run, fighting out of the loser's bracket to beat the Beavers twice, which was unthinkable that year, to earn their spot.  To boot, although I felt UF was better in a fresh, weekend format, the way the brackets had played out, Florida had exhausted some key arms and I felt pretty good about our matchup with them.  I thought we should've been able to out-duel them on the mound considering the rotations each team had at that point (to be clear: I would not have favored LSU in a 3-game stretch where all weekend arms were starting fresh).  I really thought we'd get our 7th title.  When the Gators beat us, I was crushed.  I lost all confidence.  Two seasons ago, despite having the best cbb pitcher and one of the best cbb hitters I've ever seen, I didn't believe it until they did it, and even beating the Gators then, it didn't wipe away my disappointment from 2017. 

Fuck Florida.  Oh, wait, I guess those letters are still the same when swapped.  Oh well.  

Anyway, let's get this season over with so I can get on with seeing how Brian Kelly will derp away this year's football opening in spectacular fashion.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on February 24, 2025, 10:59:31 AM
The SEC is an okay baseball league.

Should be a lot of fun watching the games this year.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on February 24, 2025, 01:52:29 PM
You need to go to The Box when UT plays there sometime.  I feel like every fan should experience a rowdy baseball game where visitors are heckled with at least half as much intensity as visiting football fans.  And if possible sit up front in right field.  The fans there notoriously talk hilarious trash to the RFers.  

Our smack-talkers probably hadn't woken up that weekend morning....is probably what happened against Stony Brook, I reckon.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on February 24, 2025, 04:04:33 PM
The Box is impressive but I'm okay going the rest of my lifetime without being heckled by opposing fanbases.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on February 24, 2025, 04:47:06 PM
The Box is impressive but I'm okay going the rest of my lifetime without being heckled by opposing fanbases. 

But you should do it anyway, and also see if you can get Matt Mitchell's "We're Texas And Y'all Ain't" t-shirt to wear.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on February 24, 2025, 04:54:29 PM
But you should do it anyway, and also see if you can get Matt Mitchell's "We're Texas And Y'all Ain't" t-shirt to wear. 
(https://i.imgur.com/z1iY2MY.png)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on February 26, 2025, 09:28:01 AM
We play Dallas Baptist tonight at Globe Life Field, home of the Texas Rangers.  Interesting early season match, although obviously with mid-week pitchers.  Dallas Baptist is a solid program, and one of only 5 teams to make the NCAA tourney each of the last 10 years.  The others being LSU, Florida, Vanderbilt, and Oklahoma State.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on February 26, 2025, 11:27:52 AM
And Dallas Baptist will pitch a weekend starter against you even on a midweek game.  They're a talented and well-coached team.

Horns opened the season for a round-robin style tournament at Globe Life, we typically do a Dallas or Houston tournament to start the season.  I like it, playing good competition early and away from home, ultimately is good for the team I think, even if you cheese away a close one in extra innings to a team like Louisville (who's not actually a terrible team).  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on February 26, 2025, 11:58:58 AM
News coverage says this is only the 3rd MLB venue we've ever played in, though it doesn't make it clear if we've played at Globe Life before or not.  We played some games at the Metrodome in 1995 (don't remember that) and more than a dozen over the last 10 years at Minute Maid (I do recall those). 

We're still trying to figure out who our weekend starters are.  Lots of transfers on this team, and the jobs are currently open, and midweek games are likely to continue the tryouts for at least a couple more weeks.  DBU could put us down with a much better pitcher, or we might be trying out a guy who's meant to be a Friday ace.  We don't really know what we have yet, or who should be where in the rotation.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on February 27, 2025, 11:20:59 AM
Horns are playing another roundrobin style tournament in Las Vegas this weekend.  The opponents are Washington, Texas Tech, and Illinois.  No world beaters in that group but a decent variety of teams and styles.  Tech always has something stored up for Texas.

I'll be going to at least one game in the Texas series against LSU when y'all come to town on the second weekend of Spring Break in March.  Should be a lot of fun.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 03, 2025, 10:59:29 AM
Horns manage a sweep for the weekend and win the Las Vegas College Baseball Classic, moving up a couple slots in the rankings.  LSU is looking strong at 1/2 in the rankings.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on March 03, 2025, 02:13:24 PM
Can't tell what we've got just yet.  At the moment, my concerns are a propensity to leave a lot of runners stranded, which has not been a problem past teams have had success overcoming, and I still don't know what we've got pitching.  So far they strike me as quite a lot of guys who are "ok."  A lot of our teams have had an ace or two, a good closer, and a bunch of bullpen arms you cross your fingers with.  This group may wind up being the opposite of that.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 03, 2025, 02:18:05 PM
You should come to Austin for the LSU-Texas series in a couple of weeks.  I have other commitments Saturday evening but am currently planning on going to the Friday and Sunday games.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on March 03, 2025, 05:10:38 PM
Apparently A&M ain’t doing too hot. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 03, 2025, 05:41:18 PM
Rough start for the Ags but the season is still quite Earley.  There's too much talent on that roster to stay down for long.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on March 04, 2025, 10:00:42 AM
You should come to Austin for the LSU-Texas series in a couple of weeks.  I have other commitments Saturday evening but am currently planning on going to the Friday and Sunday games.

So can I show up to Disch-Falk with a "We're Texas and y'all ain't" t-shirt?  Or would that just be confusing?
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 04, 2025, 10:22:13 AM
Ha!
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on March 04, 2025, 01:45:49 PM
Just checking in........


(https://i.imgur.com/6GmkaFK.png)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 04, 2025, 02:30:12 PM
Look at the Volunteer fans who all of a sudden discovered the existence of college baseball in 2024! :)

(https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/4Dj_ikUmFWijRewH91mj9RJHa-o=/0x0:620x342/1200x800/filters:focal(261x122:359x220)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53092035/welcome_to_the_jc27bb.0.jpg)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on March 04, 2025, 04:17:52 PM
Look at the Volunteer fans who all of a sudden discovered the existence of college baseball in 2024! :)

(https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/4Dj_ikUmFWijRewH91mj9RJHa-o=/0x0:620x342/1200x800/filters:focal(261x122:359x220)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53092035/welcome_to_the_jc27bb.0.jpg)


Well, more like 2021, but point taken --- and valid.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on March 04, 2025, 04:35:58 PM
Just checking in........


(https://i.imgur.com/6GmkaFK.png)

What ranking is that?  Last thing I saw had A&M #1.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on March 04, 2025, 04:40:42 PM
What ranking is that?  Last thing I saw had A&M #1. 

The latest and greatest.  I think it is 2 days old.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 04, 2025, 05:02:24 PM
Oh I think MDT is aware... :)

For reference Baseball America currently has Tennessee ranked #1 and LSU #2.  Historically I've always found their rankings to be more credible.





Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on March 05, 2025, 11:01:46 AM
I don't keep up with it.  The only source I read daily is an LSU site that uses D1Baseball, when he talks about rankings.  Which he hasn't, since the start of season, or before.  I thought he mentioned A&M being #1 last time he said anything. 

Nobody in their right mind cares about or believes a ranking like that at this point, with this many new pieces.  Only thing I take from it is I keep in the back of my mind who is likely to be our toughest outs in a season.  i.e., if A&M was ranked #1 at any point, it's probably going to be a tough series. 

And of course, there's always the years where we think we have a good team, but don't, and those Top 25 opponents go from "tough outs" to "we're going to lose another series." 

Ugh.  Baseball stresses me out.  It's so much more obvious to me, so much quicker, what kind of football team we have.  After 1 or 2 games I pretty well know how the season will go even though I can't predict exactly where the L's are coming from.  Baseball is a different animal.  Weeks drag on, and I still wonder how they'll be able to do.  Actually, it never ends, because baseball is so much more individual-dependent whereas football is more team-dependent.  In baseball, we may have the best hitter in the country and the best college pitcher I've ever seen, as with a couple seasons ago, but if they have an off night, or if another team has a stud who's just better that day, or the pitcher isn't pitching that game, etc., the outcomes can swing more wildly.  In football, often a guy having a bad day is usually mitigated by the others around them.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Mr Tulip on March 05, 2025, 11:13:10 AM
I'm learning to develop a more keen eye for baseball. My son in law is a big fan. Since the Mavs are obviously trashing their organization, he's working on learning hockey.
Much like soccer, there's a chess match going on in baseball that I'm trying to see. As the only (relatively) un-timed sport (as long as you've got an out left, you're still in it), the strategies are myriad.
When the college season is new, no one really knows what the other team does well. It takes a few weeks to learn what your opponent can hit, and what they can't. Conversely, you gotta figure out who you can count on and who might just need time to work it all out.

I'd say that last night's game between Texas and TAMU-CC is one of those pesky mid-week contests that Texas was so adept at tanking last season. So far, that's a big improvement.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 05, 2025, 11:14:38 AM
I'm pretty much the opposite with baseball, compared to MDT above.  There are so many more games, and the weekend-series structure means you can lose a game but still "win" against an opponent.  Each individual game is less stressful so they're each just so much more enjoyable to me.

Sure, the team can tank, lose a series, lose a bunch of series, or whatever.  But Texas has won NCs under numerous head coaches in numerous eras, and I just don't worry that we'll never get back to the promised land, in the same way I do with football.

To me there's almost nothing more pleasant than an afternoon or evening in the spring out at Disch-Falk, watching the Horns play baseball.  Or, just sitting at the tailgate outside the gates, with the radio on,  and just listening to the sounds of the game.  It's so relaxing.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 05, 2025, 11:17:04 AM
I'd say that last night's game between Texas and TAMU-CC is one of those pesky mid-week contests that Texas was so adept at tanking last season. So far, that's a big improvement.

Yup.  I have no idea how Texas will perform once SEC play begins, but there's zero doubt that this year's team is much improved over last year's, and a huge part of it is mental.

Augie always stressed the mental aspect of the sport over the technical or physical, and I guess he might have known what he was talking about.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on March 06, 2025, 09:28:24 AM
What I didn't mention above, which plays a big role in how I find it hard to gauge the team, is how it seems there's more variance in how baseball players play from game to game compared to football players.  At least for us.  After a couple games in football, I pretty well see what the team is and the individuals perform pretty consistently.  In baseball, it's common for all but a couple of our best players to have ups and downs, and you never know when they're coming.  And even the best players have slumps.  Slumps are not common on our football team.  

Trying to think through it, from a single-game perspective, it probably has to do with a guy playing so many more plays in a football game than a baseball game.  A RT might have some bad plays, but over the course of 40-50 plays, he is what he is.  An outfielder might get 4-5 at-bats and a handful of chances to field a ball.  If he has bad plays, it hurts way worse.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on March 10, 2025, 09:42:42 AM
What the SEC is doing in the 3 big sports is nuts.  

Completely owning basketball this year.  Always owning baseball.  I know B1G teams won the last 2 football NCs, but I don't think the SEC is actually down, especially having added Texas and OU.  

Florida's baseball OOC schedule was pretty weak, but we beat FSU and took 2 of 3 from Miami.  Our run differential so far is video-gamey.  But the conference slate will tell the tale.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 14, 2025, 09:59:25 AM
SEC opening weekend for most (all?) of the schools.  Horns are traveling to Starkvegas this weekend, and then get LSU at home next weekend.  Things are about to start getting really fun!
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 17, 2025, 08:53:30 AM
LSU swept Mizzou, Texas swept Miss State.  Setting up a nice showdown in Austin next weekend.  Looking forward to it, I've watched several LSU-Texas games at Disch-Falk over the years, and the traveling LSU baseball fans have always been great to be around.

Right now I'm planning on being at the Friday night game, and maybe the Sunday game.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on March 18, 2025, 03:41:17 PM
Still hard to tell what we've got.  I don't think the ooc competition was anything telling and Mizzou is meh, though beating them is obviously better than losing to them.  If LSU can win in Austin, it's probably a pretty decent team.  If they can't, I still won't know much, because it could mean anything from "they suck" to "Texas is that good."  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 19, 2025, 10:50:39 AM
Horns dropped the first midweek game of the season last night against UTSA, in extra innings.  Disappointing for sure.  Need to bounce back and win against LSU this weekend.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Mr Tulip on March 19, 2025, 12:14:04 PM
Horns dropped the first midweek game of the season last night against UTSA, in extra innings.  Disappointing for sure.  Need to bounce back and win against LSU this weekend.
I saw that #1 UTenn dropped their game to Eastern Tennessee State or some such in extra innings too. Some days are just oddball baseball days.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on March 19, 2025, 12:34:32 PM
Midweek games are kinda screwy.  I don't like losing them, but I wouldn't read too much into it either.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 19, 2025, 03:24:19 PM
Oh I've been a UT baseball fan for around 40 years, I get the midweek malaise.

But this team had shown a lot of fortitude in not succumbing.  Last night wasn't a failure of skill so much as a failure of will.  They let it go to extra innings and then they just dropped it.  I consider that a failure worthy of pointing out and expecting correction.  I'm certain the coaches do, as well.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on March 20, 2025, 09:38:24 AM
Guy that covers lsu baseball described the pitching as "deep but not dominant."  That pretty well fits what I've guessed based on reading recaps of the games.  We'll see how it goes through the season, but knowing I'm not the only one with that opinion so far makes me feel like I might be on the mark.

Don't know if "deep but not dominant" is enough to get it done on the road against a top 10 team.  IMO, the "deep" part tends to disappear in hostile environments against top competition.  Some of these guys will probably get rocked, and if there's no superstars to stake the tent, it might just all blow away. 

Guess we'll see. 

Will be interesting to see how the lineup fares as well.  They have a wider mix of style than what I'm used to seeing.*  LSU has leaned into being a power hitting team most of my life.  This team has displayed some power, but they've executed a lot of bunts and hit-and-runs as well, situationally, and that's different than I'm used to.  



*  I say "seeing".....what I really mean is reading recaps.  We cut the TV off during the no-footbawlz months.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 21, 2025, 01:11:40 PM
About to head downtown.  Gonna stop and get some Tex-Mex in East Austin and then head over to the Disch for some tailgating and beisbol.

I like you MDT but wish you no luck this weekend. :)

Hook 'em Horns!
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 22, 2025, 11:19:01 AM
Ooof.  Well, caught a couple innings of the softball game and that was fun.

The baseball game not so much.  

Regardless, will be headed back tomorrow afternoon, it's still always a pleasant time out at the baseball diamond on a cool spring day.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on March 22, 2025, 12:38:58 PM
It's been great weather here in SETX.  Wish I could catch a game. 

The Saturday and Sunday starters haven't been nearly as good as the Friday guy.  Still a challenge to win the series, I think. 

Keeping Cowan in the bullpen is an interesting strategy at this point.  My philosophy is put your best guys in starting roles, if you have a good closer (we seem to), and hope for the best from a weaker bullpen.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: longhorn320 on March 23, 2025, 06:26:06 PM
Horns take last 2 to win series against LSU

We might really have a contender
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 24, 2025, 08:48:02 AM
Got to see the game on Sunday, that was a pretty great performance by the Horns all the way around. Very good pitching, and very timely hitting.  I didn't attend the Saturday game but heard LSU went through a lot of pitchers during the back-and-forth.  That seemed to show up on Sunday, their depth seemed pretty gassed.

Anyway, awesome weather and a perfect weekend for some college beisbol.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on March 24, 2025, 09:26:05 AM
'Bout time the Horns beat LSU in beisbol.....it's been a minute :)

I'd like to have seen the defense not play sloppy in the Sunday game, but I don't think it mattered to the outcome.  Cleaning up the dropped double-play ball and the misplayed RF fly wouldn't have won the game, but it was still irritating and disappointing.  Hopefully the young guys will benefit from experience of playing a good team on the road. 

Pitching depth wasn't exhausted, they're just not that good.  They have good Friday ace, a good closer, and one high quality bullpen guy who I think should be moved into the Sunday starter role at this point, and I disagree with CJJ keeping him in the pen.  Getting Guidry back would be/will be huge, if he gets back to form.....that would give us another legit weekend starter. 

The problem I fear is that for as long as I've been paying attention to injury recoveries to pitchers.....every time we hear about this "week to week"....."we expect him back any time now"....."it's just a matter of him getting that final 2%" blah blah blah.......it goes on and on into the end of the season and they're out way longer than anybody ever admitted, and they're never "back."  I don't know if Guidry is ever going to be a real option.

Oh well.  No shame in losing to a top 10 team on the road, but I suspect this is just an okay team.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on March 24, 2025, 09:35:51 AM
Tons of baseball to be played this year, of course.  We've only just begun...

Horns missed on a sloppy double-play ball yesterday as well, but overall the defense was pretty good.

Regardless, this team is definitely better than last year.  The trend is positive.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 03, 2025, 10:52:20 AM
Another top 10 series starts tonight with LSU @ OU.

OU's G1 starter has better stats than any of our pitchers.  That said, he hasn't faced a lineup like LSU's yet.  

We keep getting these top 10 teams on the road.  Need some of these in the more friendly confines of The Box :)

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 03, 2025, 10:58:44 AM
Horns play @OU in the final weekend series of conference baseball.

Georgia comes to town this weekend.  I'm busy Saturday but might make Sunday's game.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 04, 2025, 09:25:20 AM
OU has a pitcher named James Hitt, who held LSU hitless in his three innings of work. 

I lolz'd.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 04, 2025, 11:10:02 AM
Sounds like a better name for a linebacker, rather than a pitcher.

Reminds me of one of my favorite Longhorn safeties, named Quentin Jammer.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on April 04, 2025, 08:42:42 PM
Sounds like a better name for a linebacker, rather than a pitcher.

Reminds me of one of my favorite Longhorn safeties, named Quentin Jammer.
I believe Jammer was from here. Angleton kid as I recall. I know several of his family members. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on April 05, 2025, 10:04:55 AM
Florida could very well be a top 25 baseball team, but we're 1-9 in the SEC because all we've played is top-10 teams.  This is stupid and weird.  

And we're probably not a top 25 team this year.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 05, 2025, 10:21:24 AM
SEC baseball has been excellent for a long time.  It's even tougher now with Texas and OU.

On the flipside, we might see the SEC get 8 or 10 of the 16 regionals...
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 06, 2025, 12:14:16 PM
Told ya the Ags wouldn't be down forever.  Way too much talent on that team.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 07, 2025, 10:07:57 AM
I don't know how good OU is, but they were ranked in the top ten at game time, and I found this stat which I would not have guessed:  This was the first time LSU has swept a top ten team on the road since 1997 when they took down #7 UT in Knoxville. 

I don't have any stats on this, but I can say I don't personally remember any other conference series where LSU allowed no earned runs, or used just 5 pitchers. 

The flip side is that I don't think LSU has many great options outside of those 5, and also 1 or 2 of them pitched out of their minds and I'm not sure that's sustainable.  Also, OU kind of gifted us game 3 with some errors.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 07, 2025, 10:09:39 AM
It's okay, you can just go ahead and say it, it feels good...

"ou sucks"

So easy, so simple, so fun, and so true!

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 07, 2025, 10:12:21 AM
One guy who covers us wrote prior to the season that the schedule was a lighter slate than last year.  But as it has turned out, 3 of LSU's first 4 SEC opponents were ranked in the top 10 at the time we played them.  Next up is Auburn, who's middle of the pack, but they just took 2 of 3 from #8 Alabama, then we host Alabama, followed by Tennessee, a previous #1 before falling to the Aggies, the same Aggies LSU will play after that.  Followed by #2 Arkansas which just demolished Mizzou. 

Fun times.  I think the batters are ready.  Not sold on the pitching.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 07, 2025, 10:14:18 AM
It's okay, you can just go ahead and say it, it feels good...

"ou sucks"

So easy, so simple, so fun, and so true!

I'm still mad about their 1950 beatdown on us in the Sugar Bowl.  Obviously they suck.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 07, 2025, 10:17:49 AM
I had no idea until the middle of last week when I was looking into our upcoming series against Georgia, that they were ranked in the Top 5.  I'm accustomed to seeing LSU and Vanderbilt and Tennessee and Texas A&M and Florida and occasionally Arkansas highly ranked, but when the heck did Georgia get good at college baseball?

Anyway, was  nice to see a series sweep of them, although that final game could have gone either way.  I ended up not going down to the Disch, it was too cold!  I hung out at the house, built some outdoor furniture in the garage, and made beef stew for dinner.  Twas a great day.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 07, 2025, 11:47:20 AM
I'd love to go to some games, if only The Box weren't 3+ hrs away. 

I can navigate the baseball games so much better than a day at Tiger Stadium.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on April 07, 2025, 11:54:50 AM
I'll be down in Oxford this Saturday watching the Vols vs. Ole Miss.

Should be a fun one.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 08, 2025, 09:24:11 AM
To put it in perspective, our next five SEC opponents include the #1, 5, 11, and 12 teams, plus A&M who was preseason #1 and still dangerous. 

I'd imagine most of the hopeful SEC teams are facing something similar. 

EDIT:  We get Tennessee and Arkansas at home.  Hopefully that's worth something.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 08, 2025, 09:38:50 AM
I'd love to go to some games, if only The Box weren't 3+ hrs away. 

I can navigate the baseball games so much better than a day at Tiger Stadium. 
Oh yeah, baseball games are so much easier and more relaxing to attend.  Football games have become an absolute beating.

To put it in perspective, our next five SEC opponents include the #1, 5, 11, and 12 teams, plus A&M who was preseason #1 and still dangerous. 

I'd imagine most of the hopeful SEC teams are facing something similar. 

EDIT:  We get Tennessee and Arkansas at home.  Hopefully that's worth something. 
Yeah the Horns have already played currently ranked #3 LSU and #6 Georgia of course, and still have to travel to #1 Arkansas and #16 OU.  We get the Ags at home thank goodness.  And then there's a home series against #9 Auburn and another home series against Florida who looks like they're struggling a bit this year but is usually a quality baseball team.

No UTenn or Vandy or Ole Miss on the schedule this year, although the Horns have already beaten #7 Ole Miss in a designated non-conference game in one of the early season tournaments.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 08, 2025, 09:53:13 AM
Oh yeah, baseball games are so much easier and more relaxing to attend.  Football games have become an absolute beating.

For some of us, in more ways than one :smiley_confused1:
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 08, 2025, 09:55:48 AM
For some of us, in more ways than one :smiley_confused1:
No doubt in my mind LSU will eventually fire the current guy and hire some buffoon hayseed coach who will win the NC in his first or second year, long before Texas ever wins one.  That's how it goes for y'all.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on April 14, 2025, 04:51:38 AM
UGA has been pretty good in baseball in various seasons, this year thus far is one of their better ones.  They were good last year too.

Has Georgia baseball ever made CWS? Bulldogs history in NCAA Tournament (https://www.onlineathens.com/story/sports/college/baseball/2024/06/08/georgia-bulldogs-baseball-ever-made-cws-history-ncaa-tournament-nc-state-super-regionals/74008494007/)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 14, 2025, 09:13:38 AM
Oof.  Swept by Auburn for the first time since 1988. 

It wasn't the pitching though, which was surprisingly good all weekend.  Offense just couldn't do it this past week, including struggling in the midweek game against Nicholls.  Not enough hits, too many fly outs, and lots of runners stranded. 

Alabama up next, starting Thursday.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on April 14, 2025, 12:15:06 PM
How much has NIL intruded into college baseball?
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 14, 2025, 12:28:29 PM
Not nearly enough, as evidenced by our getting swept last weekend :)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 14, 2025, 12:32:49 PM
I've not kept up with a lot of info about it, but I've seen enough in passing to know it's a thing.  One of our players this year is donating some sum to some charity for every HR he hits, or something like that.  It's not like hundreds of thousands of dollars, but whatever it was, it didn't strike me as "My folks are well-off and I can just do this on my own" kind of money either.  Wherever I read about it, I believe the article even reported it as a noble use of NIL money.  

I assume if he's getting NIL, a lot of others are too.  

LSU baseball has quite a fan base.  I wonder how much sense NIL makes for a lot of other programs that don't generate a profit and has little fan support.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 14, 2025, 12:45:20 PM
Not nearly enough, as evidenced by our getting swept last weekend :)
Heh, that's funny coming from an LSU fan.  NIL literally bought you the baseball NC just two years ago.  I'm not making any accusations here, it's completely within the rules, but it was direct driver of your team winning an NC.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 14, 2025, 12:49:45 PM
In general, all of the "top" baseball schools are pretty heavily engaged in baseball NIL. You're not going to win the NC without having a strong NIL program in baseball, from now on.

Texas was lagging behind under David Pierce, he wasn't very good at using it, and in addition to that, a lot of Texas' money was also focused on football.  Schlossnagle on the other hand was excellent at using it, he built a fantastic roster at A&M using a lot of NIL funding, and one of his conditions to coming to UT, was that the Horns would do a better job of focusing on it for baseball.  So far we've seen definite, direct improvement in the roster as a result of that focus.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 14, 2025, 01:05:34 PM
Heh, that's funny coming from an LSU fan.  NIL literally bought you the baseball NC just two years ago.  I'm not making any accusations here, it's completely within the rules, but it was direct driver of your team winning an NC.

Surely you are not suggesting that Paul Skenes transferred to LSU for anything other than his great love of our cooking :86:
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 15, 2025, 09:13:47 AM
We went 3 for 27 RISP vs. Auburn :smiley_confused1:
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 15, 2025, 09:22:45 AM
That's... not good.

Sounds very David Pierce-like.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 15, 2025, 10:34:25 AM
Horns play Auburn in Austin this weekend, starting Thursday which is normal for Easter weekend.  Then the Ags come to town the following weekend.  Gonna be some fun baseball at the Disch to close out this month.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 15, 2025, 11:13:09 AM
No, not good, but at this point I'm not worried about it being a long term problem.  Hopefully more of a slump that teams go through, and I'd rather it happen now than later in the season. 

We've won 3 of 5 SEC series so far, at least one on the road vs. top 10 at the time.  The two losses were top 10 on the road, in which we were competitive, and we played back to back series on the road for the AU losses, including mid-week games on the road.  So while I expect better, I think we'll do better coming up with some home games, albeit against more top 10 teams.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 21, 2025, 09:39:26 AM
Getting Guidry back would be/will be huge, if he gets back to form.....that would give us another legit weekend starter. 

The problem I fear is that for as long as I've been paying attention to injury recoveries to pitchers.....every time we hear about this "week to week"....."we expect him back any time now"....."it's just a matter of him getting that final 2%" blah blah blah.......it goes on and on into the end of the season and they're out way longer than anybody ever admitted, and they're never "back."  I don't know if Guidry is ever going to be a real option.

Welp, I called it.  Forgot to mention here last week, the team announced Guidry is having back surgery to help whatever issue he has and will not play this year. 

In my time following baseball, it's folly to ever count pitchers who aren't ready to go opening day.  Opening day is the max roster you have, it only goes down from there if one of them gets hurt.  Guys who are hurt bad enough to be held out opening day hardly ever make it back to play, certainly not for meaningful starts you'd hope for from them. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 21, 2025, 09:45:45 AM
Yeah I agree with that.  I don't recall many players coming back in the season and contributing, if they weren't there on opening day.  Especially pitchers.

Horns swept Auburn over the Easter weekend, won the final game in a 14-2 run-rule rout.  Ags are coming to town this weekend and they're looking like they've corrected quite a few problems.  Should be a great weekend series!  My i s c & a aggie wife is out of town for a girls' weekend at the beach so I'll probably spend quite a bit of time down at the Disch. 

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on April 21, 2025, 09:16:00 PM
https://twitter.com/agknocks/status/1914413319915462953?s=46&t=EHozF964Pc_xZmTZKPCcEA
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 21, 2025, 09:55:18 PM
I'm sure there's lots you can say about Schloss, but he moved from the militant jack-booted goose-stepping school, to the hippie liberal gay-welcoming school.  Hitler, he ain't.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 22, 2025, 04:10:36 PM
Top 10 Tennessee comes to town this weekend, which I guess is neat in that it pits the last two CWS winners against each other.  Now would be a good time for a couple of our hitters to break out of slumps.  Re: slumps.....better now than a month from now. 

Bring it on, you orange pansy Tee-Martin-loving sissies.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 23, 2025, 09:26:04 AM
That kind of tough talk would, um......be better served by beating your mid-week, in-state creampuff. 



"A delayed start, three errors, four walks, four hit batsmen, and a one-and-a-half hour lightning delay added up to a disappointing and embarrassing night of Tiger baseball, as LSU fell 13-3 to the Demons of Northwestern State in seven innings. It marked the first time in program history that LSU was run-ruled at home in a non-conference game. The Tigers brought much of it upon themselves with poor relief pitching and sloppy defense, but credit the Demons for simply playing a better game."


Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 23, 2025, 10:30:56 AM
Sounds like it was a weird night all around.  They might have used some voodoo against you, too.  I hear that's pretty common in your home state.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 24, 2025, 01:51:00 PM
Getting ready for THE BIG SHOWDOWN in Austin this weekend.

All the Ags I know want to win really, really badly.

So do all the Horns I know.

Should be lots of fun.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 24, 2025, 02:03:00 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GQ-El_SWYAA2ddA?format=jpg&name=4096x4096)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on April 24, 2025, 06:21:11 PM
https://twitter.com/barstoolsports/status/1805728706171719786?s=46&t=EHozF964Pc_xZmTZKPCcEA
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 24, 2025, 06:42:40 PM
Yup.  He said the same thing at TCU right before taking the A&M job.  And if he decides to leave Texas, he'll say the same thing then, too.  It's what coaches do.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Di-447wZOHQ
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on April 24, 2025, 08:13:01 PM
I wish Schlossnagle nothing but the worst. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 24, 2025, 10:54:26 PM
I wish Schlossnagle nothing but the worst.
Of course.  TCU fans felt the same.  Duke fans feel the same about Elko.  And so it goes.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 25, 2025, 02:47:01 PM
Ah and our Friday starting pitcher is out for the season with an injury, just announced last night.  We'll shuffle our Sunday starter to tonight, pitch our normal Saturday guy tomorrow, and then who knows on Sunday.




Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 26, 2025, 08:05:55 AM
2-1 Texas in an apparent pitcher's duel.

LSU snatches victory from the jaws of defeat.....at 1:20 in the morning, after a 3.5 hr weather delay.  Down 0-3 in the ninth, they ralled for a 6-3 W.  Let's see if we can get the series W.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 26, 2025, 09:21:24 AM
Yeah 2-1 is the type of game you expect on Friday night of a series between two good teams.  

But not necessarily with a Sunday starter.  I'll take it!

Didn't make it downtown last night but I'll be there this afternoon. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 27, 2025, 10:25:28 AM
And now a 3-2 pitching  bonanza.  Some really good baseball played by both teams yesterday, what a great day at the Disch. 1 Ag error at 3rd made the difference in the game. Horns take the series but can they take the sweep?  Our Sunday starter pitched Friday night, gonna take a major effort from Johnny All-staff to win today.

Looks like the Geaux Tigers suffered a little revenge of the Vols yesterday.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: longhorn320 on April 27, 2025, 12:39:28 PM
And now a 3-2 pitching  bonanza.  Some really good baseball played by both teams yesterday, what a great day at the Disch. 1 Ag error at 3rd made the difference in the game. Horns take the series but can they take the sweep?  Our Sunday starter pitched Friday night, gonna take a major effort from Johnny All-staff to win today.

Looks like the Geaux Tigers suffered a little revenge of the Vols yesterday.
Watched the game yesterday which sometimes is hard to do on the SEC network

I also saw Fridays game

Sure wish I could attend
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 27, 2025, 02:15:13 PM
Watched the game yesterday which sometimes is hard to do on the SEC network

I also saw Fridays game

Sure wish I could attend
I've got too many chores today to head down so I'll have to catch it on SECN as well.  It'll be interesting to see how we approach the pitching.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 27, 2025, 06:00:38 PM
And now a 3-2 pitching  bonanza.  Some really good baseball played by both teams yesterday, what a great day at the Disch. 1 Ag error at 3rd made the difference in the game. Horns take the series but can they take the sweep?  Our Sunday starter pitched Friday night, gonna take a major effort from Johnny All-staff to win today.

Looks like the Geaux Tigers suffered a little revenge of the Vols yesterday.

:'(

Up 7, top of the 8th, hopefully hang on for the series win.  I think less of our chances of handling Arkansas at home and A&M on the road.  This is a good, not great, team.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on April 27, 2025, 08:04:07 PM
Welp, horns for the sweep. I think all 3 games were decided by one run.  See you in the SEC tourney (maybe).  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 27, 2025, 10:09:53 PM
Yeah three 1-run games, that's crazy.  Any and all of them could have gone the other way.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on April 27, 2025, 11:35:30 PM
After starting conference play 1-11, Florida has taken 2 of 3 from #5 Arkansas and seems to matter again.  Sheesh.

2 of 3 from Miami, 2 of 3 from FSU.  I've never seen a team that is/should be decent just lose so always, lol.  But to be 8-13 in the SEC after that 1-11 start, kudos to these guys for hanging in there.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on April 28, 2025, 07:58:29 AM
Given the import of pitching on the game, and the fact these are pretty young arms, it strikes me as very possible a team could find two 18 year olds who figured it out later in the season, or just had their arms 'fall off', and either excel late or crash and burn.

A team might have to use up its staff to get into the CBWS and then have nothing left?
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 28, 2025, 09:00:30 AM
Given the import of pitching on the game, and the fact these are pretty young arms, it strikes me as very possible a team could find two 18 year olds who figured it out later in the season, or just had their arms 'fall off', and either excel late or crash and burn.

A team might have to use up its staff to get into the CBWS and then have nothing left?
Yup, both of those scenarios happen in college baseball.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 28, 2025, 09:05:55 AM
I don't think I ever remember an SEC conference game finishing on a run-rule.  If I'm not mistaken, both teams have to agree to that, and I don't ever recall a conference opponent not wanting to finish a game, no matter how lopsided.  You play all the innings because you never know, and no conference team wants to quit and concede a game.  Especially a rubber match.  I can see why LSU wanted to end it after 8.  I don't understand Tennessee accepting it.  Get your soft, orange butts out there and see if you can pull off a rally for the ages.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 28, 2025, 09:27:03 AM
Actually, I thought both teams had to agree to conditions of a run-rule prior to a game.  That's always just been a hard no, from my recollection.  I think I'm missing something.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 28, 2025, 09:47:51 AM
It's a mandatory SEC rule, implemented in 2023 apparently.

It only requires consent from an OOC coach before the game, but if it's an SEC league game then the 10-run rule is automatically in effect.

https://lsusports.net/news/2023/02/14/sec-announces-new-rules-for-2023-baseball-season/#:~:text=The%20SEC%20will%20also%20implement,resume%20after%20midnight%20local%20time.

The B12 has had it for many years, I wasn't aware the SEC only implemented it recently.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 28, 2025, 09:57:07 AM
Well then, I retract my earlier assertion that TN is a bunch of orange, soft sissies. 

They are just orange.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 28, 2025, 10:07:47 AM
Well they might also be soft sissies, but in this particular case, they had no choice.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 28, 2025, 11:02:06 AM
Ah, who am I kidding, by the time Arkansas and A&M roll around, I'm gonna be geared up prematurely for their funeral arrangements, and I'll be weeping and wailing if we then lose.

It's gonna be an emotional ride. 

Beisbol :)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 28, 2025, 11:17:01 AM
We still have Florida, pigs, and dirt burglars on the schedule.  Lots of beisbol to be played.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 28, 2025, 12:33:33 PM
I guess now is a good time to take a mid(ish) season look at what we've got so far.  Other than Texas, with a stunning 37-5 (19-2) record, the rest of the league is pretty much cannibalizing itself.  So the question is, do we have a lot of pretty good teams running into each other, or a lot of okayish teams running into each other? 

Texas has a pretty good home-away draw so far, with LSU, UGA, AU and A&M all at home, with Florida still left to come.  On the road @Clanga (I'm not used to seeing them with such a crummy record), @Mizzou, @UK, BUT with @Ark and @OU still to come.  They've certainly made the most of it, and if they roll on through the remainder of their series, there's little doubt everyone else in the league is playing for second.  Not that there's much doubt now.  You would think LSU or A&M would've been able to take one of the close games from the Horns, but neither of them could do it.  Consistently winning your close games against tough teams is the mark of greatness. 

But the question remains, how good are the rest of these teams?  LSU utterly squibbed its series against Auburn.  A&M and TN both appear fantastic at times but can't quite get over the hump at other times.  Arkansas looks good on paper and has a respectable 14-7 conf. record good for second place, but they've lost their series with the best teams, with the Longhorns still to come.  Ole Miss, Vanderbilt, Bama, and UGA are all congested in a 4-way tie, all appearing good at times but failing to distinguish themselves.  Then there's previously hapless UF, who may be ready to be UF again.  Whatever level these teams are on, they're not getting much traction to separate themselves from the pack.  Is the SEC insanely good or convolutedly mediocre?  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 28, 2025, 12:40:43 PM
SEC is really good, no cap.

That the middle is cannibalizing itself is no surprise, these are just very good teams that can win or lose to one another.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 28, 2025, 01:02:03 PM
Welp, even if we'd managed grab another game from Texas and get the series win, we'd still be 3 games behind.  Best we can do is beat Arkansas when the chance comes and try to keep sole possession of second place.  But, really, it's more about winning 2/3 remaining conference games.  If we do that, most likely we'll stay in comfortable contention for a Top 8 national seed, which is probably the most achievable goal.  They're just not going to catch Texas for the SEC title, unfortunately. 

If Texas keeps this up I'm gonna have to cut on YTTV prematurely for my wife.  Which will be some bullcrap, 'cuz I didn't even cut tv on for our CWS run a couple years ago. 

I should probably tell her UT is doing so well.  She considers herself more of a MLB* fan, but she'll root for anything UT and be interested in watching if they're good.  



* < rat's ass
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 28, 2025, 02:01:41 PM
Yeah if she's not paying attention, just don't tell her.

My i s c & a aggie wife has been out of town all weekend but got back last night, shortly after the game ended.  We were headed to dinner and my phone was blowing up with all of my longhorn friends texting to celebrate the series sweep.  She asked me what was up and I just said, "oh, sounds like Greg has a new girlfriend and everyone is giving him shit about being whipped."  Which is true but was not the point of those texts.

But anyway, for her, ignorance is bliss. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 28, 2025, 03:31:16 PM
She'll eventually start getting news updates on her iPhone.  Usually the way she hears about things.  And also her dad texts her about UT stuff occasionally. 

I did tell her when UT won the series vs. LSU.  She did a good job of hiding her smile, but it was clearly there.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 29, 2025, 11:13:41 AM
Ah, poop.  I thought we had Arkansas next, but we're @A&M this weekend. 

Really wish the Ags hadn't gotten swept this past weekend.  They'll be hungry for blood and eager to take out their frustrations.  Hope our pitching can be consistent enough and the bats are lively enough to keep pace with the 2/3 goal.  The Ags remain unranked after the sweep by UT, but they clearly are a highly dangerous team capable of whupping us, especially in their house.  I don't think you can play UT that well at their place and be an unranked-quality team.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 29, 2025, 11:16:38 AM
The ags are good.  They've really put it together over the past month of the season, after their rough start.  Horns might have swept them but only by 1 run each game. But I'm sure they're really glad to get LSU at home rather than on the road.  Should be a really fun series to watch. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 29, 2025, 11:18:14 AM
I don't have a good feeling about it.  My nose is sniffing a series loss with a g2 or g3 win.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 29, 2025, 12:23:37 PM
Could be.  On the one hand, they've been playing well.  On the other, their momentum has been broken.  It can't be easy, mentally, to come back from 3 losses against the one man and the one team that you've desperately wanted to beat worse than anyone else in your life.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on April 29, 2025, 12:45:46 PM
What do you call a phobia where you're afraid of not having a glove while watching a baseball game in person, in case a foul ball rains down on you, because you'll probably hurt yourself if you try to catch it bare-handed? 

Cuz I have that. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on April 29, 2025, 01:18:51 PM
What do you call a phobia where you're afraid of not having a glove while watching a baseball game in person, in case a foul ball rains down on you, because you'll probably hurt yourself if you try to catch it bare-handed? 

Cuz I have that.

The phobia is referred to as Low T.  It happens as you age, I hear.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on April 29, 2025, 01:20:11 PM
Heh. I probably have it too.  I hate sitting in foul ball territory down the baselines.  That's why I only sit behind home plate now.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on April 29, 2025, 01:22:18 PM
Raining down, no problem.

A frozen rope, 110 mph off the bat -- heading for my dome.  No bueno.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Mr Tulip on April 29, 2025, 04:40:28 PM
It's a brain stem response.
Embarrassed my daughter at her soccer game (she's the high school coach now). Watching a game from the stands, someone shanked one onto the walkway. I yelled, "KEEPER!", leapt up (ok, about 4 inches), and made a perfect high point save. Didn't realize what I'd done until my friend starting laughing.
Gotta think you're obligated to bring your mitt if you're sitting down the foul line. It's your civic duty.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on April 29, 2025, 09:46:26 PM
If you're seated down the line, just be aware if the batter would pull the ball your way.  That's scary.  If he's the other-handed, you're fine.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 01, 2025, 10:11:24 AM
If you're seated down the line, just be aware if the batter would pull the ball your way.  That's scary.  If he's the other-handed, you're fine.

That's not true at all.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 01, 2025, 10:26:41 AM
Horns start playing AT the #10 ranked pigs' house tonight.  If Texas is going to drop a series, this is a good candidate.  Horns have played a lot of good teams at home, I like this one being on the road and testing the team's mettle.  We'll see how it goes.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 01, 2025, 10:45:25 AM
Horns start playing AT the #10 ranked pigs' house tonight.  If Texas is going to drop a series, this is a good candidate.  Horns have played a lot of good teams at home, I like this one being on the road and testing the team's mettle.  We'll see how it goes.



If we're fortunate!
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 01, 2025, 10:52:07 AM
When I looked at Arkansas' game by game schedule, I wasn't as impressed.  No doubt they're good, but hidden in their record is the fact they've lost to all the best teams they've played.  I expect that will continue vs. Texas.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 01, 2025, 11:47:52 AM
When I looked at Arkansas' game by game schedule, I wasn't as impressed.  No doubt they're good, but hidden in their record is the fact they've lost to all the best teams they've played.  I expect that will continue vs. Texas. 
Sure hope so!

One thing's for sure, their fans still hate Texas quite a bit, even if the rivalry's been on ice for a few decades.  It'll be a raucous crowd.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 01, 2025, 01:24:37 PM
I thought only we had raucous beisbol crowds. 

Copycats.  Or maybe copypigs.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 01, 2025, 01:29:44 PM

Could you describe the raucous?

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 01, 2025, 02:36:28 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/dJPnrFJ.jpeg)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Mr Tulip on May 01, 2025, 04:02:42 PM
Could you describe the raucous?


(https://thebrekkyclub.weebly.com/uploads/2/9/3/7/29370051/7118438.jpg)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on May 01, 2025, 08:45:38 PM
(https://thebrekkyclub.weebly.com/uploads/2/9/3/7/29370051/7118438.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ODepnoC.jpeg)




Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: just1hog on May 02, 2025, 06:33:33 AM
I'll just leave this here

(https://i.imgur.com/CDdTczj.png)
Texas needs to eat a worm and die! 
:93:
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 02, 2025, 08:18:48 AM
Ooof.  I was afraid of something like that.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 03, 2025, 11:24:15 AM
I'll just leave this here

(https://i.imgur.com/CDdTczj.png)
Texas needs to eat a worm and die!
:93:


Well well well.....look who suddenly made an appearance.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: just1hog on May 04, 2025, 06:36:00 AM
Hey MDT,
I'm always here, because you know it just takes one hog to spoil your whole day.
:)

Oh no! looks like the Hogs ruined Texass's whole weekend!
>:(

And guess who's next?  Yeah, that's right. You swamp kittens don't cry too much after the sweep next weekend!
:violent-smiley-007:
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 04, 2025, 05:22:14 PM
Congrats on the series sweep, that was painful but not unexpected.  The Horns are a good team, an improved team, but not a great one.  Good things on the horizon but this was not supposed to be "our year" and I'm still happy with the trend.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on May 04, 2025, 11:28:34 PM
Aggies took 2/3 from LSU. Wonder why it took 1/2 the season to start playing good ball. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 05, 2025, 09:17:07 AM
That was a bit painful.  The Tigers had their chances to get over the hump in game 1 and game 3, but the Aggies were a bit more consistent and LSU couldn't quite match them.  They had the lead in the 8th with a good closer on the mound, but he picked yesterday to get roughed up.  

This team reminds me a of lemon amongst a manufacturing line of nice cars.  There's a lot of things to like, but every time you turn around, something isn't working, and it's something different every time.  Fix one thing and think you're good.....nope, now it's something else.  

LSU site this morning opines LSU needs to find at least 4 wins in upcoming series vs. Arkansas and South Carolina to stay alive for a Top 8 national seed.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 05, 2025, 09:17:52 AM
Hey MDT,
I'm always here, because you know it just takes one hog to spoil your whole day.
:)

Oh no! looks like the Hogs ruined Texass's whole weekend!
>:(

And guess who's next?  Yeah, that's right. You swamp kittens don't cry too much after the sweep next weekend!
:violent-smiley-007:

Bring it, Pigs.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 05, 2025, 10:36:08 AM
The Vols are taking a dump in the bed here in the late season.  Awesome.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 05, 2025, 10:39:36 AM
The Vols are taking a dump in the bed here in the late season.  Awesome.

The Barn is a tough team this year.  We didn't even get one game off of them.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 05, 2025, 10:43:00 AM
Horns swept the wareagletigers, and the ags, and then of course got swept by the piglets.  It's tough in the SEC.

A pretty hot Gator team is coming to town this weekend. I'll probably get to at least one of those games.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 05, 2025, 12:08:34 PM
Horns swept the wareagletigers, and the ags, and then of course got swept by the piglets.  It's tough in the SEC.

A pretty hot Gator team is coming to town this weekend. I'll probably get to at least one of those games. 

Been waiting years to hear you say that.  

Now you just need to learn how to chant "SEC!  SEC!  SEC!"
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 05, 2025, 12:22:27 PM
Been waiting years to hear you say that. 

Now you just need to learn how to chant "SEC!  SEC!  SEC!"

Well, it's tough now that Texas is in the SEC, anyway.

As for the chant, I've actually done it, once.  It was the last time Arkansas played in Austin in the SWC. 1990.  Arkansas had already announced prior to that season that they'd be heading to the SEC, so after whipping the pigs 49-17, the Texas crowd tauntingly cheered "SEC, SEC, SEC" at them.

That was the first, last, and only time that will ever happen for me.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 05, 2025, 12:26:15 PM
Georgia baseball jumps to No. 1 ranking in Baseball America Top 25 (https://247sports.com/college/georgia/article/georgia-baseball-jumps-to-no-1-ranking-in-baseball-america-top-25-249643905/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKFxTZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFCZWp6Sll5bFY2Q0NuVXc1AR5X0NTvOFjAaM1M_ukMNb5Nqubb-AwD8dFqBK67QwgfcRPvs0BZZHSSUIgPsg_aem_FmtzIsqqHcRDraKZBsieWw)

I predict this will be short lived.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 05, 2025, 12:30:25 PM
Yeah, that's odd, what with UGA having been swept by Texas and Texas having a better record, arguably against better competition.  Though, to UGA's credit, sweeping AU looks good these days.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 05, 2025, 12:56:34 PM
I suspect it's because the teams ranked above them had a loss or three and the Dawgs are on a winning streak against subpar opponents like Kennesaw State. 

UGA apparently can hit, but not pitch.  I'm thinking of going over there, I could be a student again.  I've always wanted a history degree.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 05, 2025, 01:29:21 PM
Horns got swept in embarrassing fashion.  Voters couldn't abide leaving us at #1 and I get it.

Great thing is it's all just for entertainment and really doesn't matter, since there's a PLAYOFF to determine the ultimate national champion.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on May 06, 2025, 06:57:42 AM
Wow, Mizzou is 0-24 in conference play.  That's hard to do.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 06, 2025, 09:18:59 AM
Horns got swept in embarrassing fashion.  Voters couldn't abide leaving us at #1 and I get it.

UT is still #1 in D1Baseball's poll.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 06, 2025, 09:48:17 AM
UT is still #1 in D1Baseball's poll. 
Yeah that was a bit surprising.

Most longtime college baseball fans I know use Baseball America, I've always found it to make more sense.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 06, 2025, 09:53:33 AM
I still say a playoff determines a playoff champion.  

It's not likely it determines the best team, if there is such a thing.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 06, 2025, 10:30:22 AM
I still say a playoff determines a playoff champion. 

It's not likely it determines the best team, if there is such a thing.
I think this is a more accurate statement for sports like football where there is only 1 game at each round of the playoff.

In MLB there are series, and I think you're a lot more likely to get a "true" winner from a series of series.

The NCAA college baseball tournament isn't all pure series, but the regional 4-team double-elimination format I think is still more likely to produce the "best" team, than a single game would.  And then the super-regional is a series which is also more likely to produce a "best" team.  And then the CWS repeats that same format with your double elimination 4-team half-bracket, and then the final series once again.

Regardless, my statement was really just pointing out that the poll rankings in baseball aren't really all that important, there's a selection committee that determines entry outside the auto-bids, and seeding.  They might or might follow along with the polls.  Mostly it seems like they're heavily swayed by RPI.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 06, 2025, 10:46:13 AM
RPI rankings have UGA and Texas as #1 and #2, respectively.  LSU currently #9.  Upcoming opponent Arkansas, 6, I think.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 06, 2025, 10:55:08 AM
I don't follow it closely of course, but everything I've seen claims UGA lacks the pitching to go deep into the tourney.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 06, 2025, 06:27:55 PM
Lots of teams are hurting for pitching depth at this point in the season, almost anything could happen.



Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 07, 2025, 09:19:32 AM
Admittedly, I'm a glass-two-thirds-empty kind of guy, and I watch from a perspective of "What will do us in, in the end?" moreso than "Can we do it this year?"  There's the optimism and hope of a fan on one hand, but on the other hand is a cold adherence to chance and probability.  Statistically speaking, after having so recently won a CWS, it will be a while, if ever, before we do it again.  Granted, statistics only describe what happens, they don't control what happens, and probability likewise merely suggests what's likely, not what is imminent.  But the realities of this game that dictate the statistics which describe it are such that it's improbable we can actually go all the way. 

I wish I could cut that part of my brain off and enjoy with pure, unadulterated optimism.  Because frankly, it does little to mitigate my disappointment when the season finally ends without a trophy.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on May 07, 2025, 09:22:29 AM
Admittedly, I'm a glass-two-thirds-empty kind of guy, and I watch from a perspective of "What will do us in, in the end?" moreso than "Can we do it this year?"  There's the optimism and hope of a fan on one hand, but on the other hand is a cold adherence to chance and probability.  Statistically speaking, after having so recently won a CWS, it will be a while, if ever, before we do it again.  Granted, statistics only describe what happens, they don't control what happens, and probability likewise merely suggests what's likely, not what is imminent.  But the realities of this game that dictate the statistics which describe it are such that it's improbable we can actually go all the way. 

I wish I could cut that part of my brain off and enjoy with pure, unadulterated optimism.  Because frankly, it does little to mitigate my disappointment when the season finally ends without a trophy. 
Just be glad you're an LSU grad and not an A&M grad.  We were this ][ close last year.  

Buddy, I got some sob stories to tell.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 07, 2025, 09:23:40 AM
Texas won it all most recently, I think, in 2005.  That would be a neat story, maybe, to win another on the 20th anniversary of the last one. 

UGA played in the finals sometime in the late aughts, I think, but lost to some chump out west.....Fresno, maybe?  Don't know if they've ever won a CWS.  Don't know how big baseball is amongst the UGA fans.  It's a huge deal for us, even before we started winning in the 90's, and I found a pretty fair baseball following amongst the UT fans as well when I lived in Austin.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 07, 2025, 09:33:37 AM
Yup, 2005.  Woulda/coulda/shoulda been 2009 when Texas was one out away in the top of the 9th in Game1 and then comfortably won Game2, but those golderned cajuns musta paid off the ump with some gumbo and crawfish etouffee or something.

I don't see it happening for Texas this year but it would be cool to win it and celebrate the 20th anniversary.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on May 07, 2025, 09:46:17 AM
Rice won one in that time frame as well (early aughts).  Didn't Texas win multiple CWS in that timeframe?  I can't remember, I just remember the one.  Was it the same year as VY and football won?  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 07, 2025, 10:36:20 AM
Horns won both the baseball and football NC in 2005.

Longhorn baseball won the NC in 2002, made it to the final 4 in 2003, made it to the championship series and lost to Fullerton in 2004, and then won the baseball NC again in 2005.  So the final 4, 4 years in a row, including two NCs and one runner-up.  It was a nice stretch for the UT beisbol team.


Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on May 07, 2025, 10:46:46 AM
Horns won both the baseball and football NC in 2005.

Longhorn baseball won the NC in 2002, made it to the final 4 in 2003, made it to the championship series and lost to Fullerton in 2004, and then won the baseball NC again in 2005.  So the final 4, 4 years in a row, including two NCs and one runner-up.  It was a nice stretch for the UT beisbol team.
Yeah I kinda remember that they were really on top in that time frame.  

A&M had some good teams, the '99 team went to the CWS but went 0-2.  Had some good teams in the late 90's make it to super regionals while I was there and of course the CWS in '99.  I think we went to the CWS a couple more times under Rob Childress (who was after Mark Johnson) but didn't make it far.  

Even though I don't much like the guy, Sclossnagle was a helluva coach for us while he was here.  I think he has more CWS wins with A&M than all other coaches combined.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 07, 2025, 12:52:33 PM
Yup, 2005.  Woulda/coulda/shoulda been 2009 when Texas was one out away in the top of the 9th in Game1 and then comfortably won Game2, but those golderned cajuns musta paid off the ump with some gumbo and crawfish etouffee or something.

I don't see it happening for Texas this year but it would be cool to win it and celebrate the 20th anniversary.


Jambalaya.  Omaha umps are notorious suckers for it.  S'why our fans go even when the team doesn't.  Keeping the wheels greased for when they get there.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 07, 2025, 02:25:26 PM
UGA played in the finals sometime in the late aughts, I think, but lost to some chump out west.....Fresno, maybe?  Don't know if they've ever won a CWS.  Don't know how big baseball is amongst the UGA fans.  It's a huge deal for us, even before we started winning in the 90's, and I found a pretty fair baseball following amongst the UT fans as well when I lived in Austin. 
Baseball is pretty big in Athens, not as big as tennis or gymnastics, but bigger than basketball.  They have a nice stadium seating 3,633.  They won ths CWS in 1990 and were runnerup in 2008 to Fresno State.



(https://i.imgur.com/l1XRV1t.jpeg)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 07, 2025, 02:27:51 PM
I think they are currently ranked number one in women's track and tennis, plus baseball.  I don't think much of rankings of course, and putting them on a par with Purdue to me seems a bit dubious.  Whatever.

U.S. News & World Report ranks UGA as No. 18 best public university

The University of Georgia climbed two spots to No. 18 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 ranking of the best public universities in the nation. This marks the ninth consecutive year that UGA has placed in the top 20. UGA shares the No. 18 rank with Purdue University and the University of Washington.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 08, 2025, 09:19:08 AM
I did not know Paul Mainieri was coaching South Carolina.  We'll face the old coach next weekend for our final SEC series. 

I didn't keep track of him when he resigned at LSU, but he said something along the lines of how he was tired, didn't feel like he was giving it his best anymore, and needed to step aside for the good of the program. 

I guess he just needed a few years off, away from the over-zealous expectations of LSU fans.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 08, 2025, 09:23:15 AM
I'd guess coaching college baseball is less "tiring" than football, but a lot, but who knows?  These days it could be crazy.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on May 09, 2025, 08:47:25 AM
I did not know Paul Mainieri was coaching South Carolina.  We'll face the old coach next weekend for our final SEC series. 

I didn't keep track of him when he resigned at LSU, but he said something along the lines of how he was tired, didn't feel like he was giving it his best anymore, and needed to step aside for the good of the program. 

I guess he just needed a few years off, away from the over-zealous expectations of LSU fans. 
https://twitter.com/secunfiltered/status/1920649453079253238?s=61
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 09, 2025, 09:44:09 AM
Holy cow
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on May 10, 2025, 12:05:54 AM
Florida beat USCe like 22-3 a few days ago.  They suck ass.

And the team that started 1-11 in SEC play just beat #1 Texas.  We may end up with a 2 seed, which defies logic.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on May 10, 2025, 12:11:54 PM
Welp.  A&M snapped Mizzou’s “perfect” SEC record. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on May 10, 2025, 12:35:13 PM
Welp.  A&M snapped Mizzou’s “perfect” SEC record.
Sonofabitch!
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 11, 2025, 08:22:15 AM
Now, where'd that uppity little hawg go?  😎  Not so tough outside their own little pork-pen. 

Speaking of, without doing any research whatsoever, it seems to me that's LSU's story as well.  Barring the Auburn outlier, LSU can beat anyone at home, and is just as likely to lose to good teams away from home.  Getting a top 8 national seed will doubtlessly improve their chances markedly, though their chances in Omaha, if they were to make it, would seem to be slim.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 11, 2025, 08:29:14 AM
Texas and Florida battle for the series today. 

A&M bizarrely can't beat Missouri, of all teams.

UGA thumping Bama. 

LSU scrapes out Friday's game in extra innings, then blows the doors off in a crazy run-rule in game 2.  A crazy game ending play, where LSU's batter struck out but reached base on a wild pitch, 2B runner took third and made a risky gamble for home.  He got caught in a rundown, but then Arkansas' 3B went to the ground to field a return throw and threw late to the plate, allowing LSU's trapped guy to slide in to home and end it.  Weirdest walk-off I've ever heard of.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: just1hog on May 12, 2025, 06:26:39 AM
Now, where'd that uppity little hawg go?  😎  Not so tough outside their own little pork-pen. 

Speaking of, without doing any research whatsoever, it seems to me that's LSU's story as well.  Barring the Auburn outlier, LSU can beat anyone at home, and is just as likely to lose to good teams away from home.  Getting a top 8 national seed will doubtlessly improve their chances markedly, though their chances in Omaha, if they were to make it, would seem to be slim. 
Uppity? :57:

What a series, almost 4 hour rain delay, then a 10 run rule and finally blocked the sweep. Tiggers had the bats this time for sure! Good games!
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 12, 2025, 09:37:20 AM
Horns stumbling down the stretch.  Weak bats all season long were covered to an extent by strong pitching, but losing our best weekend pitcher 3 weeks ago just cratered our rotation.  I like this team a lot, they've played well above their talent level, but this is not an Omaha team I think.  Still a good first season in the SEC.  A series win in Norman would be nice...

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on May 12, 2025, 09:41:56 AM
Horns stumbling down the stretch.  Weak bats all season long were covered to an extent by strong pitching, but losing our best weekend pitcher 3 weeks ago just cratered our rotation.  I like this team a lot, they've played well above their talent level, but this is not an Omaha team I think.  Still a good first season in the SEC.  A series win in Norman would be nice...
I'll see your "stumbling down the stretch" and raise you a series sweep (all losses) to the team previously winless in the SEC.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 12, 2025, 09:58:29 AM
Uppity? :57:

What a series, almost 4 hour rain delay, then a 10 run rule and finally blocked the sweep. Tiggers had the bats this time for sure! Good games!

Yeah, I hate the rain delay, but we've had several of those in recent weeks.  I feel like delays affect baseball worse than any other sport.  Not sure if it helped us or not in g1 against the Hawgs, but I'll take the W either way.  We just don't have the bullpen arms to take three games from a team like Arkansas, even at home.  

I'm pretty comfortable with the team in a 2 out of 3 format against most anyone--at least at home or neutral site--but if you have to fight out of a loser's bracket, for example, and win several in a row.....well, that's why I don't think this LSU team is real CWS material.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 12, 2025, 10:16:22 AM
Welp, Mizzou did what we could not....beat the Ags in College Station. 

After no game played (or finished?) on Saturday, Bama takes two of three from UGA. 

Baseball is a up and down sport, and the SEC has plenty of tough teams to provide the ups and downs.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Mr Tulip on May 12, 2025, 10:27:09 AM
So I guess from a practical consideration, while it's always better to win hardware than not, the idea with the SEC tournament is to defend your record enough to keep home field advantage the regional and super-regional.
There's so much firepower in the SEC that winning it really isn't a prerequisite. Just try not to lose too badly to a team that's geographically close to you. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 12, 2025, 10:52:16 AM
Pretty confident that Tennessee will not repeat as National Champs.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 12, 2025, 11:52:08 AM
I'll see your "stumbling down the stretch" and raise you a series sweep (all losses) to the team previously winless in the SEC. 
ooof, I saw the score from the first game and was surprised but figured the Ags would pull out the series win.  Didn't know it was a series sweep until you just said it.  Up and down, for sure,  but so much talent on that team that I think almost anything is possible for y'all.



Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on May 12, 2025, 01:16:34 PM
Pretty confident that Tennessee will not repeat as National Champs.
I'm not even sure A&M will play in the post-season.  I don't think with today's record they will, and in fact they should not.  Strange how that works.  I think a few years ago MSU won the CWS, and just recently fired their coach.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 12, 2025, 01:27:21 PM
If we can get the series win @South Carolina, some local coverage guys think that probably gets us a top 8 national seed, regardless of what we do in the SEC tourney.  But I don't know what they base that on or how reliable it is. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on May 13, 2025, 11:39:59 PM
We're ranked, lol.  WOW!

Got 3 games vs Bama to possibly wind up at or above .500 in-conference.

It's been a looooong road back to relevance.   Sheeeesh.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 14, 2025, 09:29:52 AM
Haven't really paid attention to Bama, but they just managed to knock off a pretty good UGA team, so that's something.  The series is @Florida, so it should be interesting.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 15, 2025, 09:24:17 AM
Let's see if LSU can avoid being this week's Texas A&M and not get swept by USC, a team that hasn't won a conference series yet. 

News today is that the typical g1 ace won't pitch tonight, they'll start him tomorrow in g2, and the usual g2 pitcher will go in g3.  No word on who will pitch tonight.  I guess it's to give them an extra day's rest, but it seems like a strange move to risk giving a team with nothing to lose confidence if you don't put your best foot forward and wind up handing them a series-opening win.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 15, 2025, 01:16:09 PM
I have a funny feeling that Auburn has the magic on their side this year.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 15, 2025, 01:42:29 PM
Comes down to the final series for each of the top 3 teams.  Horns are assured at least a tie for first if they win 1 game, but man I'd love to take the series against the dirt burglars.

(https://i.imgur.com/9Yv56cB.png)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 15, 2025, 02:58:29 PM
I have a funny feeling that Auburn has the magic on their side this year.

They sure knocked our butts in the grass, in BR no less.  Only team to beat us at home this year, I think.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 15, 2025, 03:58:03 PM
They sure knocked our butts in the grass, in BR no less.  Only team to beat us at home this year, I think. 

Their first base coach, who is a player that hadn't had a single at bat this year, pinch hit last night --- and his first swing of the season was a monster jack over the right field wall.  The entire dugout went crazy.

I'm sensing the juju is on their side.


https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-5HYDYpnxWc?feature=share
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 16, 2025, 08:28:52 AM
Well, Horns won Game1 up in Norman and Arkansas lost.  Thanks to the Vols for the assist!  Didn't expect this at all in the first season of a baseball conference like the SEC.  There's so much to like about this team, and talent is pretty far down the list.   


(https://i.imgur.com/Y6rn29v.jpeg)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 16, 2025, 08:58:06 AM
Well, Horns won Game1 up in Norman and Arkansas lost.  Thanks to the Vols for the assist!  Didn't expect this at all in the first season of a baseball conference like the SEC.  There's so much to like about this team, and talent is pretty far down the list. 


(https://i.imgur.com/Y6rn29v.jpeg)

You’re welcome.

Congrats to the Horns.  They are definitely making a splash in the SEC, in multiple sports. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 16, 2025, 09:43:04 AM
Let's see if LSU can avoid being this week's Texas A&M and not get swept by USC, a team that hasn't won a conference series yet. 

News today is that the typical g1 ace won't pitch tonight, they'll start him tomorrow in g2, and the usual g2 pitcher will go in g3.  No word on who will pitch tonight.  I guess it's to give them an extra day's rest, but it seems like a strange move to risk giving a team with nothing to lose confidence if you don't put your best foot forward and wind up handing them a series-opening win. 

Welp....~???
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 16, 2025, 09:51:02 AM
Welp....~???
Yeah I think sometimes coaches outsmart themselves.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 16, 2025, 01:32:10 PM
Holy cow, I totally missed this until just now:

(https://i.imgur.com/89zFeOl.png)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 17, 2025, 10:48:58 AM
Seems like everyone who won on Thursday, lost yesterday.  

Texas is limping into the postseason with only one starting pitcher.  That is not a recipe for a deep tourney run.  I'm afraid we've seen about the peak of this team, and it happened a month ago.  I'm still really proud of them though, they've out-gritted several teams that had more talent.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 17, 2025, 01:32:25 PM
Holy cow, I totally missed this until just now:

(https://i.imgur.com/89zFeOl.png)

That looks like a comfortable football win.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 17, 2025, 04:14:59 PM
https://www.dawgnation.com/baseball/georgia-baseball-wins-final-sec-game-series-over-texas-am-national-seed-chase/FO46BULHAFCR7DX57EGOXOI3C4/
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on May 17, 2025, 08:49:23 PM
Florida finishes SEC play at .500 (15-15) after a 1-11 start.

Is that a good coaching job? lol  
Best not to get in a hole to begin with.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 18, 2025, 10:36:09 AM
Series win against our hated archrivals with an emphatic 9-1 win in Norman yesterday.  Glad we finally won another series before heading into the postseason.

This double-bye thing for a 16-team tournament seems strange but it should be fun.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: CWSooner on May 18, 2025, 12:56:19 PM
Series win against our hated archrivals with an emphatic 9-1 win in Norman yesterday.  Glad we finally won another series before heading into the postseason.

Your hated archrivals are sucking down the home-stretch this year.

Quote
This double-bye thing for a 16-team tournament seems strange but it should be fun.

I don't get the reason for that schedule at all.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 19, 2025, 10:32:03 AM
Florida finishes SEC play at .500 (15-15) after a 1-11 start.

Is that a good coaching job? lol 
Best not to get in a hole to begin with.


Yes, and yes.  

Going 1-11 isn't great, but getting to even afterwards is nothing short of spectacular, and there are a lot of teams who wouldn't want to play the Gators right now.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 19, 2025, 10:41:08 AM
Your hated archrivals are sucking down the home-stretch this year.
I like Skip Johnson, a lot.  He was instrumental in Texas' success while he was here in Austin.

He's had some great success at OU, making it to the CWS finals a couple of years back, but his teams have also been a little erratic.  I'm not sure what's behind that, maybe he's just not able to get consistently the caliber of players he needs?  Not sure.  But I always wish him well, despite him coaching for you evil Sooners. ;)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: CWSooner on May 19, 2025, 06:23:27 PM
I've heard various explanations for what has gone wrong with OU baseball this year.

Lack of NIL money is a popular one. A couple of critical injuries is another. Lack of focus on fundamentals,  especially on defense, is yet another.

Over the last 25 years, I've followed OU softball a lot more closely than I have OU baseball, or college baseball in general. Hometown University of Tulsa had a good baseball program back in the 1960s. It lost to Arizona State in the finals of the CWS in 1969. I listened to the games on the radio. But that program declined, and then became a victim of Title IX. I never followed OU baseball when I was in school there, nor for decades afterward.

9 of the 16 teams left in post-season softball are from the SEC. Maybe somebody will start a thread about that.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 20, 2025, 09:06:50 AM
So, we're #3 in our conference, and #1 in the polls.

Makes sense, because the earth is flat.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 20, 2025, 09:10:18 AM
9 of the 16 teams left in post-season softball are from the SEC. Maybe somebody will start a thread about that.

I don't have a lot of interest in LSU softball, but I've loosely followed it over the years (emphasis on "loosely") because a short recap is included in a daily update I read about LSU sports.  The team appeared to have some talent this year but was thought to have too many ups and downs, and now has been bounced from it's own regional for the second time in three years.  Coach Beth Torina is speculated to need a more productive season next year, maybe a deep tourney run, to stay off the hot seat.  Most of this team comes back and an injured arm or two is supposed to return.  

I have no idea what "arm injuries" mean in softball and if/how they affect the pitchers the same as in baseball.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 20, 2025, 09:18:01 AM
2025 Baseball Regular Season Attendance Numbers

1. @LSUbaseball (https://twitter.com/LSUbaseball?ref_src=twsrc^tfw|twcamp^tweetembed|twterm^1924490511282233694|twgr^8e62dd9590fe6232524cc9eb8413a5bb65190208|twcon^s1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dandydon.com%2Ffrom-twitter%2F2025-baseball-regular-season-attendance-numbers%2F) 387,484 
2. @RazorbackBSB (https://twitter.com/RazorbackBSB?ref_src=twsrc^tfw|twcamp^tweetembed|twterm^1924490511282233694|twgr^8e62dd9590fe6232524cc9eb8413a5bb65190208|twcon^s1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dandydon.com%2Ffrom-twitter%2F2025-baseball-regular-season-attendance-numbers%2F) 356,663 
3. @HailStateBB (https://twitter.com/HailStateBB?ref_src=twsrc^tfw|twcamp^tweetembed|twterm^1924490511282233694|twgr^8e62dd9590fe6232524cc9eb8413a5bb65190208|twcon^s1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dandydon.com%2Ffrom-twitter%2F2025-baseball-regular-season-attendance-numbers%2F) 330,009
4. @OleMissBSB (https://twitter.com/OleMissBSB?ref_src=twsrc^tfw|twcamp^tweetembed|twterm^1924490511282233694|twgr^8e62dd9590fe6232524cc9eb8413a5bb65190208|twcon^s1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dandydon.com%2Ffrom-twitter%2F2025-baseball-regular-season-attendance-numbers%2F) 308,917 
5. @GamecockBasebll (https://twitter.com/GamecockBasebll?ref_src=twsrc^tfw|twcamp^tweetembed|twterm^1924490511282233694|twgr^8e62dd9590fe6232524cc9eb8413a5bb65190208|twcon^s1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dandydon.com%2Ffrom-twitter%2F2025-baseball-regular-season-attendance-numbers%2F) 251,414 
6. @TexasBaseball (https://twitter.com/TexasBaseball?ref_src=twsrc^tfw|twcamp^tweetembed|twterm^1924490511282233694|twgr^8e62dd9590fe6232524cc9eb8413a5bb65190208|twcon^s1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dandydon.com%2Ffrom-twitter%2F2025-baseball-regular-season-attendance-numbers%2F) 220,490 
7. @GatorsBB (https://twitter.com/GatorsBB?ref_src=twsrc^tfw|twcamp^tweetembed|twterm^1924490511282233694|twgr^8e62dd9590fe6232524cc9eb8413a5bb65190208|twcon^s1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dandydon.com%2Ffrom-twitter%2F2025-baseball-regular-season-attendance-numbers%2F) 213,840 
8. @Vol_Baseball (https://twitter.com/Vol_Baseball?ref_src=twsrc^tfw|twcamp^tweetembed|twterm^1924490511282233694|twgr^8e62dd9590fe6232524cc9eb8413a5bb65190208|twcon^s1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dandydon.com%2Ffrom-twitter%2F2025-baseball-regular-season-attendance-numbers%2F) 210,618 
9. @AggieBaseball (https://twitter.com/AggieBaseball?ref_src=twsrc^tfw|twcamp^tweetembed|twterm^1924490511282233694|twgr^8e62dd9590fe6232524cc9eb8413a5bb65190208|twcon^s1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dandydon.com%2Ffrom-twitter%2F2025-baseball-regular-season-attendance-numbers%2F) 206,577
10. @FSUBaseball (https://twitter.com/FSUBaseball?ref_src=twsrc^tfw|twcamp^tweetembed|twterm^1924490511282233694|twgr^8e62dd9590fe6232524cc9eb8413a5bb65190208|twcon^s1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dandydon.com%2Ffrom-twitter%2F2025-baseball-regular-season-attendance-numbers%2F)  171,962


Well, that copy-and-pasted like crap.  I had no idea Arkansas and the Mississippi schools had such big stadiums and high attendance.  I thought we were way ahead of everyone else.  Look at FSU, being cute, trying to sneak in there with the SEC teams.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 20, 2025, 09:25:46 AM
Yeah our baseball stadium is quite a bit smaller than the big ones in the SEC.  And there's really not much to be done to increase its size, it's pretty much land-locked.  It's already just off campus, to make it any larger it would have to move well outside of campus.

Miss State has a really cool feature, it's basically like outdoor suites or club boxes in the outfield, with built-in smokers and grills.  I think they have "owners" that can outfit them as they like.  A Longhorn friend of mine went and attended the series when we played them there this year and showed me pictures, it's really cool, if a bit dodgy-looking.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 20, 2025, 10:20:18 AM
Yeah, well, we have a really nice structure behind home plate/first-base/third-base with suites, and also in the halls you can buy overpriced, crappy ballpark food. 

Seriously, I ate one of those hot dogs one time and decided it was an abomination to hot dogs and I never made that mistake again.  It tasted like McDonald's made it, if McD's made hot dogs. 

Take that, Clanga.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on May 20, 2025, 10:37:47 AM
I don't have a lot of interest in LSU softball, but I've loosely followed it over the years (emphasis on "loosely") because a short recap is included in a daily update I read about LSU sports.  The team appeared to have some talent this year but was thought to have too many ups and downs, and now has been bounced from it's own regional for the second time in three years.  Coach Beth Torina is speculated to need a more productive season next year, maybe a deep tourney run, to stay off the hot seat.  Most of this team comes back and an injured arm or two is supposed to return. 

I have no idea what "arm injuries" mean in softball and if/how they affect the pitchers the same as in baseball. 
A&M softball, #1 seed, got booted from their own regional by Liberty.  After being co-champions of the SEC, didn't even make it to the super regionals.  What a shame, lots of people wanted to see them matched up to OU since we didn't get to in the SEC CCG.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 20, 2025, 12:22:42 PM
I often wonder with stadium food if they'd make more money selling a hotdog for say $3 and selling more of them.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: CWSooner on May 20, 2025, 08:41:54 PM
I don't have a lot of interest in LSU softball, but I've loosely followed it over the years (emphasis on "loosely") because a short recap is included in a daily update I read about LSU sports.  The team appeared to have some talent this year but was thought to have too many ups and downs, and now has been bounced from it's own regional for the second time in three years.  Coach Beth Torina is speculated to need a more productive season next year, maybe a deep tourney run, to stay off the hot seat.  Most of this team comes back and an injured arm or two is supposed to return. 

I have no idea what "arm injuries" mean in softball and if/how they affect the pitchers the same as in baseball.
To your last point, supposedly, the underarm softball pitching motion is much easier on the arm than pitching a baseball. I think softball pitchers tend to get tired arms--or maybe just worn down in general--if they throw too many innings. But you seldom hear of pitching-induced injuries
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on May 20, 2025, 09:47:41 PM
Yep, it's a biomechanically-sound motion and it's a shorter distance to throw it.  They can throw TONS of innings.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 21, 2025, 08:07:13 AM
My issue with softball pitching is they are off the rubber when they release the ball.

Balk,  every time.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 21, 2025, 08:24:35 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/fehle0J.png)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 21, 2025, 09:29:17 AM
More softball stuff......the times we live in.


"In softball news, LSU suffered a big blow yesterday when two-time All-American pitcher Sydney Berzon entered the transfer portal. Her departure will undoubtedly leave a significant void and has me regretting writing just a few days ago that LSU would return virtually all of its pitching. I also mentioned that I expected Coach Beth Torina to return next season but noted that she should be on notice, so to speak. Suffice it to say, she’ll need to hope Berzon’s departure isn’t the first of many.

As for the reason behind Berzon’s decision, I really don’t know. She may view this as her last opportunity to secure a strong NIL deal. Then again, there could be more to it. For what it’s worth, Justin Broussard of Daily LSU News reports on X that it’s a mutual parting that has been in the works for some time, though I can’t confirm that one way or the other."

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 21, 2025, 10:25:10 AM
If LSU's NIL for softball is anything like its NIL for baseball, then money wouldn't be an issue...

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: CWSooner on May 21, 2025, 11:21:38 AM
My issue with softball pitching is they are off the rubber when they release the ball.

Balk,  every time.
Sort of how for many decades in baseball the classic double-play started with an imaginary out at 2nd base?
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: CWSooner on May 21, 2025, 11:36:37 AM
I responded to a post by Utee by noting that the OU baseball team seems to be sucking.

But, oddly, this year's team has virtually the same win percentage as the 2022 team that lost to Ole Miss in the CWS finals. 64% vs. 65%.

But the '22 team played well down the stretch, while this year's team had a 5-game losing streak in the process of losing 6 of the last 7 regular-season games.

OU beat Kentucky 5-1 to start off the SEC tournament. A couple of guys who had been injured have become available. Maybe the team is not as bad as it looked ending the regular season.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 21, 2025, 12:01:06 PM
I responded to a post by Utee by noting that the OU baseball team seems to be sucking.

But, oddly, this year's team has virtually the same win percentage as the 2022 team that lost to Ole Miss in the CWS finals. 64% vs. 65%.

But the '22 team played well down the stretch, while this year's team had a 5-game losing streak in the process of losing 6 of the last 7 regular-season games.

OU beat Kentucky 5-1 to start off the SEC tournament. A couple of guys who had been injured have become available. Maybe the team is not as bad as it looked ending the regular season.
A bad streak is bad until it isn't.  Headed into Game1 in Norman, the Horns were 1-5 against SEC competition, 0-2 in SEC series.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 22, 2025, 10:12:32 AM
A&M walloped Clanga in the SEC tourney to advance and play Auburn today.  LSU will play the winner.  Both the Barn and the Ags beat LSU in the regular season.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 22, 2025, 10:43:19 AM
Horns will play the Vols today at 3.  These two teams did NOT meet in the regular season, should be fun. 

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 22, 2025, 11:10:19 AM
UT vs. UT, Round 1 of many. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 22, 2025, 12:26:17 PM
UT vs. UT, Round 1 of many. 


Glad we saved Liam Doyle for today.  We’ll need him to shut down the Horns offense to have a chance.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 22, 2025, 01:15:36 PM
Glad we saved Liam Doyle for today.  We’ll need him to shut down the Horns offense to have a chance. 
Our offense ain't much. Hopefully a bit better as Belyeu gets more comfortable back from injury.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Cincydawg on May 22, 2025, 02:27:13 PM
I see OU knocked UGA out, single elimination apparently.

Congrats to OU finally beating the Dawgs, which they have never done in football, ever, not even once.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 22, 2025, 03:58:53 PM
Decent setting to listen to the game on my pink radio.


(https://i.imgur.com/8KZRWfN.jpeg)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 23, 2025, 09:47:34 AM
Hope you enjoyed the very long game, @jgvol (https://www.cfb51.com/index.php?action=profile;u=1567) .  Good luck in the rest of the tourney.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 23, 2025, 10:07:00 AM
Tough day on the diamond for both Longhorn teams.  The 12-inning loss to the Vols in beisbol knocks Texas out of the SEC tourney, and the softballers lost in the first game of the Superregional to Clemson, now facing an elimination game today.



Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 23, 2025, 11:28:01 AM
Decent setting to listen to the game on my pink radio.


(https://i.imgur.com/8KZRWfN.jpeg)


There appears to be an LSU spy lurking in your midst.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 23, 2025, 12:53:07 PM

There appears to be an LSU spy lurking in your midst. 

yep.  Coupla gay dudes. 

The purple and gold was a dead giveaway.  😂
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 23, 2025, 12:55:07 PM
Gay LSU fans?  Man, they have to be awesome cooks.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 23, 2025, 12:56:26 PM
Gay LSU fans?  Man, they have to be awesome cooks. 

LOL.  It is actually a really nice family.  Even for LSU folks.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 23, 2025, 01:00:01 PM
Funny story…. Long game yesterday and bled iver into dinner on an outdoor beach patio at Kenny D’s here in Destin. 

Was watching on my phone and just so happens, the next 2 tables next to us were all Vols as well.  I drew a crowd with the game on my phone.  They were all apologetic for intruding on our dinner but we didn’t care obviously.  It was pretty cool.

Nothing like the love of sports to make strangers into friends in an instant.  I love that about sports. 

Should go in the “things that made me happy” thread.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 27, 2025, 09:51:55 AM
Our regional is paired with Clemson's.  So, interestingly, if both teams were to win their regionals, the two baseball teams could meet in a Super just months before the schools' football teams start their season. 

I feel like we got a good draw in our regional, I just don't like this team in a regional format.  I'm not saying they can definitely win a Super should they advance, I'm just saying with the pitching staff, I feel better about their chances of taking a straight 2 out of 3 than I do about the possibility of fighting out of a loser's bracket.  By the same token, if they made it to Omaha, I wouldn't like their chances in the brackets all that much, but would feel a little better about the Finals, even though the competition might be the toughest. 

Meh, I'm just aimlessly speculating.  This team isn't going to the CWS Finals.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 27, 2025, 09:54:29 AM
So, imagine you're LSU's coach and you have a pretty favorable draw Friday to start the regional.  You only have two aces.  Do you throw a bullpen type arm on Friday because you can probably get away with it, and save your aces for the money games?  Or do you not take that gamble, pitch your best guy regardless, knowing that you really don't want to deal with the loser's bracket?  Also, saving an arm for later could reduce the number of days rest for the Super, should you make it, and you know you definitely want your ace ready for game 1 in the Super. 

How do you play it?
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 27, 2025, 10:10:55 AM
Depends on then 4-seed, how well they hit, what type of hitting they do, etc. How do they match up against your various potential pitchers? 

But, if you think at all that you can get away with using Johnny All-staff in Game1, then I say save your aces for later in the weekend.  Assuming all goes to chalk, I'd rather face a 2-seed twice with my best arms, than use one of my best on the 4-seed.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 27, 2025, 10:25:18 AM
Horns' super would match up with UCLA should both win.  Gotta get through the regional first, though.  And of course the committee put one of our purple nemeses in our regional...
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 27, 2025, 10:46:50 AM
Horns' super would match up with UCLA should both win.  Gotta get through the regional first, though.  And of course the committee put one of our purple nemeses in our regional...

Why are you whispering?
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 27, 2025, 10:48:23 AM
Depends on then 4-seed, how well they hit, what type of hitting they do, etc. How do they match up against your various potential pitchers?

But, if you think at all that you can get away with using Johnny All-staff in Game1, then I say save your aces for later in the weekend.  Assuming all goes to chalk, I'd rather face a 2-seed twice with my best arms, than use one of my best on the 4-seed.


"Before worrying about DBU, LSU (43-14) will have to give its undivided attention to Little Rock (24-32), who the Tigers will face Friday at 2 p.m. CT to open the double-elimination regional. Little Rock’s record would suggest that they are one of the worst teams in the tournament, but they are on a bit of a roll. The Trojans earned the final spot in the OVC Tournament as an 8-seed, then proceeded to win five games in four days to win the whole thing and earn the conference’s automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament."

I don't know anything else about that which would answer your other questions.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 27, 2025, 10:55:46 AM
Why are you whispering?
Copy/paste from the B1G forum and that's how it pasted.  I don't make the rules.

And of course the other school of thought with respect to pitching in tournaments, is that it's critical to stay in the winner's bracket, so you should pitch your best early.  If you can win and stay in the winner's bracket, then the team you're facing on Sunday will be coming out of the loser's bracket and will be burning more pitching than you, so even your weakest pitchers might be enough to get it done on Sunday.  And if not, you've got a second chance and against a team that's burned even more pitching.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 27, 2025, 11:11:03 AM
I see the advantages of both, which is why I'm not sure what I'd do.  Just curious what anyone else thinks.  No word from our coach yet on what he plans to do. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 27, 2025, 11:32:06 AM
I still think I'd try to pitch the staff against the 4-seed and save the ace(s) for later in the weekend.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 27, 2025, 11:50:07 AM
I see the advantages of both, which is why I'm not sure what I'd do.  Just curious what anyone else thinks.  No word from our coach yet on what he plans to do. 

Really tough call.

Probably bullpen platoon in your first game, and save your arms.  

That goes against my conservative nature, however, and I usually lean to "putting money in the bank" when the opportunity presents itself.

Good thing I'm not making the calls.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 27, 2025, 12:15:45 PM
I think I lean toward yall's bent on this as well.  My main reservation is more limited rest for the aces in the Super (should they make it).  It's a given that we want #1 and #2 next Friday/Saturday in the Super, and our preferred approach to the regional stands to put them on less than a week's rest.  Still not sure what I'd do.....which......I think.....if I'm being logically consistent......I've lost my right to complain about whatever CJJ does if it doesn't work out. 

Dang, I gotta make a choice soon, because I really like to complain about stuff that doesn't work out.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 27, 2025, 01:56:26 PM
We only have one real weekend starting pitcher left.  I suspect we'll save him for Saturday.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 27, 2025, 02:50:54 PM
We only ever had two to start with.  Very fortunate for us that neither of them were injured during the year.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 27, 2025, 02:53:13 PM
Yeah we had two.  We lost one around 5 weeks ago, right about the time the winning turned to losing.  Now we have one.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 27, 2025, 04:02:22 PM
We also have only 2 front line "starters".  One of them is wildly erratic, and the other is the SEC Pitcher of the Year that has been sucking of late.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 27, 2025, 05:25:23 PM
Come to think of it, I can't remember any LSU teams in modern times that had more than two aces, or weekend starters, or however you term it.  I mean, they had a guy in a Saturday/Sunday role, but he wasn't near the quality of the other two and not who you'd prefer in a Best 2 Out Of 3 format.  Most LSU teams that made deep runs or won something had two reliable guys, a third guy who was "SEC-caliber" (maybe meaning middling caliber), a decent enough bullpen, and a smothering closer. 

We've actually got most of that this year except for the veins-of-ice closer.  And that has cost us, and that is one reason I don't think we're in danger of winning anything.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 29, 2025, 12:12:51 AM
Not sure how this will impact plans for the regional in Austin...

(https://i.imgur.com/u5sPLK0.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/ed5Ixg6.png)

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 29, 2025, 10:43:21 AM
Looks dangerous.  I recommend not moving there.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 29, 2025, 10:48:35 AM
Very dangerous.  Nevertheless, we shall rebuild.

They had the old damaged part cut up and removed by dark last night.  Preparing to install the replacement sections.

(https://i.imgur.com/AgKfOzg.png)

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on May 29, 2025, 11:47:25 AM
I figured Texas could just throw one of their bazillion dollars at it, of which they have a gajillion, and get that place right by tomorrow.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 29, 2025, 11:51:18 AM
I figured Texas could just throw one of their bazillion dollars at it, of which they have a gajillion, and get that place right by tomorrow. 
I assume that's exactly what's happening.  At a normal place, this kind of project might take months.  On UT's campus, hours.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on May 29, 2025, 12:25:41 PM
Very dangerous.  Nevertheless, we shall rebuild.

They had the old damaged part cut up and removed by dark last night.  Preparing to install the replacement sections.

(https://i.imgur.com/AgKfOzg.png)



Looks like a good spot to stroke a frozen rope, gapper.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 29, 2025, 01:39:21 PM
Fortunately, there are no games scheduled for today.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on May 31, 2025, 11:30:17 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/BUETmF7.png)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: CWSooner on May 31, 2025, 12:35:58 PM
Well, OU beat Nebraska in the 2/3 game of the Chapel Hill Regional yesterday.

I suspect that the post-season will end today against #5 UNC.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 01, 2025, 12:34:31 PM
Well this tourney was a lot more fun 24 hours ago... :57:
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: CWSooner on June 01, 2025, 02:41:33 PM
Double-elimination somehow went right over my head. UNC clobbered OU yesterday.

But the Sooners are currently beating Nebraska in an elimination game. But I can't see us beating UNC twice in a row to advance to the Supers.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: CWSooner on June 01, 2025, 11:21:20 PM
Surprise! The Sooners beat UNC this evening, so the two teams will play again tomorrow for the Chapel Hill Regional championship.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 01, 2025, 11:42:14 PM
Horns lose their 3rd (and final) game to UTSA this season.  I knew this wasn't an Omaha team, but I did kinda think they'd make the Supers. Still they played well above their heads most of the season.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on June 01, 2025, 11:55:23 PM
Horns lose their 3rd (and final) game to UTSA this season.  I knew this wasn't an Omaha team, but I did kinda think they'd make the Supers. Still they played well above their heads most of the season.
I wish Schlossnagle nothing but the worst of luck. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: longhorn320 on June 02, 2025, 02:05:27 AM
Horns lose their 3rd (and final) game to UTSA this season.  I knew this wasn't an Omaha team, but I did kinda think they'd make the Supers. Still they played well above their heads most of the season.
we still have the women

go Horns softball team
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 02, 2025, 04:44:52 AM
I wish Schlossnagle nothing but the worst of luck.
Nobody gives a shit what you wish. 


Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on June 02, 2025, 07:00:13 AM
we still have the women

go Horns softball team

uhhh, no. 🙃
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 02, 2025, 09:07:52 AM
Fisticuffs at noon!
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on June 02, 2025, 09:24:12 AM
This is a bit OT since it isn't SEC baseball, but.....

Holy cow!  With a come-from-behind win over Southeastern (Fla.) on Friday night, LSU-Shreveport not only won their first NC, but also completed the first undefeated season (59-0 !!!) in NAIA history (and possibly all college baseball history, not sure).  I don't care what your level of competition is, an undefeated baseball season is amazing.  We may never see something like that again. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on June 02, 2025, 01:24:47 PM
Not a good weekend for the 16 national seeds.  

For a guy who doesn't expect much from this team, I'm still a little anxious.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 02, 2025, 02:46:10 PM
Baseball is dead to me.



Nah just kidding, I'll still be watching.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 02, 2025, 02:52:52 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/KYd9sPJ.png)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: longhorn320 on June 02, 2025, 05:14:30 PM
uhhh, no. 🙃
uhhh oh yes

on to the finals
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on June 03, 2025, 09:25:35 AM
Arkansas and Tennessee will meet in Little Rock for what we'll call the SEC Super Showdown.  Did they play in the regular season?  

Look at all those surf-boy and ACC teams in the Supers.  Ugh.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on June 03, 2025, 10:13:30 AM
Arkansas and Tennessee will meet in Little Rock for what we'll call the SEC Super Showdown.  Did they play in the regular season? 

Look at all those surf-boy and ACC teams in the Supers.  Ugh. 

Played a series in Fayetteville, mid-May.

Hogs took 2 out of 3.

I don't expect to beat them on their turf in the Super's.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on June 03, 2025, 10:25:32 AM
we still have the women

go Horns softball team
Did I see this right that Texas Tech and Texas are in the finals?  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 03, 2025, 10:27:31 AM
Did I see this right that Texas Tech and Texas are in the finals? 
Yup.  The Horns finally broke their OU curse by beating them the first time and putting them into the losers' bracket, and Tech finished them off for their 2nd loss and elimination.

And that set up the all-Texas finals.  Should be fun, Tech's pitcher is unbelievable.  Gonna take some luck for the Horns to win two.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Gigem on June 03, 2025, 10:34:32 AM
Aggie softball have to be kicking themselves right now for getting dumped in their own regional by....Liberty.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on June 03, 2025, 11:24:17 AM
LSU softball got knocked out of their own regional for the 2nd time in 3 years.  

#GymSchool
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on June 04, 2025, 12:05:50 PM
A total of 7 national seeds were eliminated from their regionals.  That seems unusually high.  At least one more (us) was nearly eliminated.  

More parity or just bad rankings?
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 04, 2025, 01:15:27 PM
Sucking sucks!
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: longhorn320 on June 04, 2025, 10:53:05 PM
Horns take game 1 of all Texas softball World Series
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 04, 2025, 11:25:44 PM
Horns take game 1 of all Texas softball World Series
Wow, what a crazy game.  So many strange things.

Ultimately it came out to the correct result.

But man it's going to be a whole 'nother mountain to climb trying to beat Canady again in Game2.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: Mr Tulip on June 05, 2025, 08:58:43 AM
Both teams have shutdown pitchers. That's the only way you get to this level of the tournament. At this point, you're more looking at a collection of random events deciding the outcome.
By that, I mean Texas obviously got a bad beat last night when the refs correctly and consistently interpreted a very bad rule. It wouldn't have mattered, but then Tech followed it up with a rare base hit. Neither happens with much frequency, but then they happened right next to each other.
On the other side, Texas missed a game tying HR by about 2 feet foul. If that happens, then the sequence that led to Reese Atwood hitting an intentional walk for 2 runs doesn't happen, and the outcome is uncertain.
Texas gets two bites at the apple after last night.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 05, 2025, 11:25:08 AM
I'm not sure how I feel about being able to use one dominant pitcher every single game.  I mean, it's great when you have one of course.  But it sucks when you don't.

I realize I'm just used to the paradigm in baseball, where the overall pitching staff matters and one dominant guy isn't going to win you every game by himself. 

Perhaps it's time to expand the infield, or even the entire ballpark, for softball. 

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: jgvol on June 05, 2025, 01:38:09 PM
I'm not sure how I feel about being able to use one dominant pitcher every single game.  I mean, it's great when you have one of course.  But it sucks when you don't.

I realize I'm just used to the paradigm in baseball, where the overall pitching staff matters and one dominant guy isn't going to win you every game by himself.

Perhaps it's time to expand the infield, or even the entire ballpark, for softball.



Yes.....Expand both.  Make them at least 225-250 ft.

I was playing T-ball on a filed that size at 5 years old.

Little leaguers were hitting homers by 10 years old on a field the same size.

By 12 we were moved back to 280 ft fields.

Men's slow pitch is played on 300 ft fields.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: OrangeAfroMan on June 06, 2025, 09:40:14 PM
Also, having 250 lb ladies cranking them out messes up the geometry of the field.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: CWSooner on June 06, 2025, 10:53:27 PM
FWIW, OGE Energy Field at the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex has a dirt infield and a grass outfield surface, with dimension of 200ft along the lines, and 220ft to center field. The fence is at least 6 feet high, and most home runs hit there don't clear the fence by very much.

Required dimensions for NCAA softball fields are described here: https://ncaaorg.s3.amazonaws.com/championships/sports/softball/rules/PRWSB_FieldDiagram.pdf.

Congrats to Texas. Nobody has lit up Nijaree Canady like Texas did tonight.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: longhorn320 on June 06, 2025, 10:55:33 PM
I'm not sure how I feel about being able to use one dominant pitcher every single game.  I mean, it's great when you have one of course.  But it sucks when you don't.

I realize I'm just used to the paradigm in baseball, where the overall pitching staff matters and one dominant guy isn't going to win you every game by himself.

Perhaps it's time to expand the infield, or even the entire ballpark, for softball.


Not to worry. 3rd time was the charm,

The Horns took game three and are the champions


                                  (https://i.imgur.com/CtdaSL2.png)


Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 06, 2025, 10:57:44 PM
Yeah, seems like giving a pretty good team 3 looks in 3 days at your ace, might not have been the best decision.

Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: CWSooner on June 07, 2025, 04:08:36 PM
Also, having 250 lb ladies cranking them out messes up the geometry of the field. 
Not many of those any more. There are notable exceptions, but most of the young ladies are good all-round athletes.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on June 09, 2025, 10:01:45 AM
Coastal Carolina eliminates the Barn in their own Super.  Tennessee eliminated, but by Arkansas, so that's kind of a wash for the conference.  Just two SEC teams to Omaha.  Not quite the showing I thought we might have for the "toughest conference in college baseball."  And guaranteed no all-SEC CWS since LSU and Arkansas are in the same bracket.  Which is probably just as well, same-conference championships are lame anyway.  

Oregon St. being one of the two schools trying to hold the PAC together (PAC-2 ?), maybe it's good exposure in some way for the overall brand for osu to return to Omaha.  

Ugh.  Even a post about the CWS winds up reminding me of how the SEC and Big Ten are eating everything on the planet, Galactus-style, and how disillusioned I am with college sports in general.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 09, 2025, 10:08:50 AM
Arkansas looks like the team to beat.  But ya never know. 
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on June 09, 2025, 04:07:25 PM
That's exactly what we plan on doing to them.  Again.  :)
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: just1hog on June 10, 2025, 06:22:16 AM
Here kitty kitty
(https://i.imgur.com/JYXRD05.png)

Going to be Epic! Whoever wins takes the title. Mark my words!
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on June 10, 2025, 09:16:43 AM
We stand no chance if the razorback is really that much bigger than the tiger.  

Also he appears to be possessed by Satan, and that seems unfair.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on June 10, 2025, 09:20:32 AM
Going to be Epic! Whoever wins takes the title. Mark my words!

I still don't love LSU's chances in the double-elimination, 4-team format.  Much like the regionals vs. Supers where I liked LSU's chances better in a best-2-of-3 rather than the regional format even though the competition in a Super would probably be superior, I'm not convinced this LSU team is equipped to handle the loser's bracket or even a loss from the winner's side.  

You could be right, but even if LSU were to beat Arkansas in game 1, I could see them not winning the bracket.  I hate to say it, but making it to Omaha is probably about the highest achievement this team could've hoped for.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: utee94 on June 10, 2025, 10:17:20 AM
I've seen what I consider the absolute best teams lose a tough one in Game1 and just never be able to recover.  Coming out of the loser's bracket is incredibly tough.  A little bad luck in Game1 or even Game2 and your ride could be over quick, even for the very best.
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on June 10, 2025, 12:44:03 PM
That's true, but even nailing whoever emerges from the loser's bracket would be tough for this team.  We won g1 and g2 in our regional, but then lost to the winner of the loser's bracket, then in the elimination game needed some heroics and good fortune.  There's really two pitchers who have been reliable, and everything is a toss-up after that.  And this CWS bracket is going to be a lot tougher than our regional.  

Anderson and Eyanson could put on clinics and the bats could stay hot for two games, and we still could lose two more games to any of these teams.  And that's if we can even avoid the loser's bracket.  
Title: Re: SEC baseball 2025
Post by: MikeDeTiger on June 11, 2025, 09:24:27 AM
Our coach, on the Razorbacks:  "Yeah, they're the most talented team in the country.  There's no question about that."

Our players, probably:  "Um....thanks, coach...."