#23 |
FRESNO STATE
bulldogs
(47-31, 21-11)
final 2008 ranking: 1 |
 
Not since B-Rabbit outrhymed Papa Doc at the close of
“8 Mile” has there been such an unthinkable
underdog story as the 2008 Fresno State baseball team.
The Bulldogs will have their work cut out for them in
defending their title, but armed with an experienced
offense and invaluable know-how gained from last year’s
championship run, Fresno State should be back in the
mix. A number of key offensive players including 2008
CWS MVP Tommy Mendonca (.285, 19, 70), leading hitter
Alan Ahmady (.386, 13, 92) and sophomore Danny Muno
(.332, 3, 30) return to lead the Bulldog charge, however
the pitching staff has some major holes to fill. The
good news for Coach Mike Batesole is that Holden Sprague
(6-2, 3.59) returns and will lead the pitching staff
both on and off the field. Aside from Sprague, few hurlers
who logged significant innings will be back, but there
are is plenty of young talent looking to prove last
year was no fluke. Freshman pitchers Josh Poytress,
Derek Benny and Charlie Robertson were all selected
in last year’s amateur draft but elected to become
Bulldogs rather than sign professional contracts. Finally,
is there anyone in baseball with a more intimidating
name than Sean Bonesteele? I think not.
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