Baseball News & Game Recaps
Former LakeHawk, Jason Matusik, named Player of the Year in the SSC
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Jason Matusik laid the foundation for his baseball career in Lake County. A slugging first baseman, Matusik blasted a school record 24 home runs at Mount Dora Bible and hammered 15 roundtrippers in two seasons at Lake-Sumter Community College - now Lake-Sumter State College. Matusik transformed his hitting prowess into a scholarship with Lynn University in Boca Raton, where he has worked to become a complete player rather than a one dimensional power hitter.
Validation of his progression as a player came earlier this week when Matusik was named the Sunshine State Player of the Year in a vote by league coaches. Matusik batted .386 with seven homers and 48 RBIs. He ranked second in the league with a .637 slugging percentage and led the SSC with 109 total bases. His batting average, slugging percentage and RBIs ranked second in the league.
As a junior at Lynn, an NCAA Division II school, Matusik hit .264 with six homers and 34 RBIs. He had eight multi-RBI games and 12 multi-hit contests. Prior to arriving at Lynn, Matusik established himself as one of the top junior college power hitters in Florida while at LSSC. He hit .302 with 15 homers and 61 RBIs with the LakeHawks. As a sophomore, Matusik hit .353 with 12 homers and 41 RBIs. He also recorded 12 doubles and scored 30 runs.
Matusik alerted college coaches to his hitting prowess during his final season at Mount Dora Bible, when he hit .517 with 13 homers and 30 RBIs. He also had 15 doubles and 38 runs scored. Matusik also spend time with the Leesburg Lightning in the Florida Collegiate Summer League and holds the team's career record with 10 homers in 35 games with the team. In addition to earning Player of the Year honors, Matusik was named to the SSC All-Conference First Team.
Named to the second team as a utility player was former LSSC standout Tyler Kellmann, who hit .351 with three homers for Barry University in Miami Shores. Kellmann, a junior, hit .340 with three homers and 30 RBIs in 46 games with LSSC.
LSSC Softball and Baseball Each Place Three Players on All Conference List
Three Lake-Sumter State Softball players and three Lake-Sumter State baseball players earned Mid-Florida Conference honors this week. For Softball, Lauren Barnard was a first team selection at first base after leading the LakeHawks with a .377 batting average and setting a school record with 13 home runs this spring. She also led the team in RBIs with 47 and was tied for the team lead with doubles at 12. Michelle Breen earned second team utility player and Jodi Pierce earned second team as an Outfielder. Breen hit .336 with 2 home runs and 17 RBIs. She tied Barnard with 12 doubles to lead the team. Pierce hit .318 with 1 home run and 21 RBIs. She also tallied 3 doubles and 2 triples.
Kuehl McEachern earned first team honors on the mound and also was named the Mid-Florida Conference Fireman of the Year. McEachern went 5-2 on the year with a 1.26 ERA in 71 2/3 innings. His 12 saves put him in second place in the country behind Trey Norris from Polk State College. David Wood also earned first team honors on the mound with a 5-1 overall record and a 1.33 ERA in 81 innings pitched. Dakota Higdon was placed on the second team as an outfielder. Higdon led the LakeHawks offensively with a .339 batting average, 11 doubles. He also contributed 22 RBIs while playing every game this spring in the outfield for the LakeHawks.
LSSC Falls Against Seminole State in Finale
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
The LakeHawks fell behind 8-2 after three innings Wednesday and wrapped up its season with an 11-3 defeat at the hands of Seminole State at the LSSC baseball complex. LSSC finishes the season with a 26-20-1 record, while Seminole State will move on to the state tournament with a 33-12 mark. Six LakeHawks pitchers went to the mound Wednesday. Starter Michael Hennessey lasted an inning and was followed by Joe Dinardo, who recently committed to Webber University in Babson Park, Dylan Jones, Kuehl McEachern, David Webb and Bobby Holsombach.
LSSC managed only five hits off four Seminole State pitchers. Starter Kyle Andre went five innings to get the win. The LakeHawks scored solo runs in the first, third, and fourth innings. Albert Lefran and Dakota Higdon had two hits apiece for LSSC. Masaki Hook, Lefran and Sam Thomas scored for the LakeHawks.
LSSC Loses Third Straight Game Monday
The College of Central Florida scored four runs in the second inning and added three more in the third to go on to win 11-3 over Lake-Sumter State on Monday in Ocala. The LakeHawks committed seven errors on the day and five LSSC pitchers combined to give up 17 hits. Bobby Holsombach received his first loss of the season and falls to 4-1 overall. Albert Lefran and Kris Hodges each had two hits for the LakeHawks. Offensively, LSSC managed seven hits total off of four CCF pitchers.
The LakeHawks (26-19-1, 12-11 MFC) finish out the season at home Wednesday against Seminole State College at 2:30 p.m.
LSSC is Shutout on the Road in a Pitcher's Duel
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Matt Pennington pitched a complete game four hit shutout on Sunday to lead St. Johns River State College to a 1-0 win over Lake-Sumter State College. Pennington struck out eight without walking a batter to run his record to 7-4 on the season. David Wood did just as well for the LakeHawks, allowing just six hits in his 7 1/3 innings of work, striking out three and allowing just one base on balls.
The game's only run came in the bottom of the 9th inning, when Will Mackenzie was hit by a pitch and advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt by Austin Tuttle. Shawn Sanders then singled through the hole at short moving Mackenzie to third on the play. Mackenzie came into score on Josh Garcia's ground out.
Steve McClellan, Albert Lefran, Jake Frisosky and Taylor Saris all had singles to account for the LSSC offense. The LakeHawks (26-18-1) will complete the season with games against the College of Central Florida at 3 p.m. Monday in Ocala and the season finale against Seminole State at the LSSC baseball complex on Wednesday.
LSSC Falls to FSC-Jacksonville Friday at Home
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Lake-Sumter State College's postseason hopes took a big hit Friday with a 4-3 loss against Florida State College-Jacksonville in a Mid-Florida Conference game at the LSSC baseball complex. LSSC fell to 26-17-1 and 12-9 in the Mid-Florida Conference, good for third place in the conference with a week left in the regular season. The top two teams from the state's four conferences will advance to the postseason.
With the loss, LSSC is three games behind second place Seminole State with three games to play. The LakeHawks must win out and hope that Seminole State loses out for LSSC to force a playoff game. Juan Montana scored the eventual winning run - an unearned run - in the eighth inning against LSSC closer Kuehl McEachern. The loss was McEachern's first defeat in six decisions this season.
LSSC battled back from a 3-0 deficit to tie the game in the seventh. Sam Thomas led off the inning with a single and came around to score on a double by Dakota Higdon. The LakeHawks had 11 hits, compared to five for FSC-Jacksonville. Higdon and Thomas had three hits apiece, while Jake Frisosky and Steve McClellan had two each. Thomas also scored two runs.
Four LSSC pitchers saw action. Jonathan Ripoll started and was followed on the hill by Joe Dinardo, Dylan Jones and McEachern. Brian Poag got the win in relief for FSC-Jacksonville. LSSC will attempt to keep its faint playoff hopes alive when it faces St. Johns River State at 3 p.m. today in Palatka.
LSSC Keeps its State Tournament Hopes Alive with Win Over Santa Fe
Michael Hennessey pitched effectively for six innings and Kuehl McEachern picked up his 12th save leading the LakeHawks to a 5-4 win against Santa Fe Wednesday afternoon. With the win, the LakeHawks (26-16-1, 12-8 MFC) remain two games back from second place Seminole State with four games to play. The top two teams in each conference based on conference record advance to the FCSAA State Tournament next month in Lakeland. St. Johns River State is currently in first place with a 16-3 conference record.
Hennessey picked up the win to move to 2-4 on the season. He allowed four runs on ten hits in his six innings of work. Joey Dinardo struck out two hitters in the seventh inning and Kuehl McEachern threw two scoreless innings to earn the save.
Offensively, the LakeHawks had eight hits and were led by Kris Hodges (2-for-4, RBI) and Chris Blanton (2-for-4, 2 RBIs). Steve McClellan chipped in with a double and Sam Thomas banged out a triple.
The LakeHawks are back in action at home on Friday to play FSC-Jacksonville. First pitch is 3:00 p.m.
Upcoming games
Friday (4/19) - vs FSC-Jax 3:00 p.m.
Saturday (4/20) - @ SJRSC 3:00 p.m.
Monday (4/22) - @ College of Central FL 3:00 p.m.
Wednesday (4/24) - vs Seminole State - 2:30 p.m.
LSSC Baseball Moves up to No. 8 in the Latest State Coach's Poll
April 16, 2013
The FCSAA Baseball Coaches’ Poll, with number of first-place votes in parentheses, 2013 record, previous rankings and total points in voting by FCSAA baseball coaches, the FCSAA Baseball Chair and the FCSAA Scoreboard Coordinator.
Rank |
Team |
Record |
Pts |
Pvs |
1. |
Tallahassee (18) |
40-7 |
198 |
1 |
2. |
State College of Florida (1) |
35-9 |
167 |
3 |
3. |
Miami Dade (1) |
34-7 |
163 |
2 |
4. |
St. Johns River State |
35-13 |
143 |
4 |
5. |
Seminole State |
29-12 |
111 |
6 |
6. |
Palm Beach State |
31-16 |
105 |
7 |
7. |
Gulf Coast State |
29-17 |
69 |
5 |
8. |
Lake-Sumter State |
26-16-1 |
40 |
9 |
9. |
Chipola |
30-19 |
37 |
-- |
10. |
Polk State |
30-15 |
33 |
8 |
Also receiving votes: Hillsborough 15, Broward 7, Brevard 6, Santa Fe 6.
Dropped from rankings: No. 10 Broward.
LSSC takes a tumble 13-3 at the hands of Daytona State on Monday
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
The LakeHawks ran through five pitchers on Monday, all at no avail in a 13-3 shellacking at the hands of Daytona State College in Daytona. David Wood (5-1) took his first loss of the season, yielding four runs and four hits in 4 2/3 innings of work. Kris Hodges led the way on offense for LSSC, which dropped to 26-15-1, and 11-8 in Mid-Florida Conference play. Hodges delivered an RBI single and Jake Frisosky chipped in with a double. The LakeHawks had six hits total offensively.
The LakeHawks return to action on Wednesday when they host Santa Fe College. Game time is 3:00 p.m.
LakeHawks Move up a Spot to No. 9 in the Latest State Poll
April 9, 2013
The FCSAA Baseball Coaches’ Poll, with number of first-place votes in parentheses, 2013 record, previous rankings and total points in voting by FCSAA baseball coaches, the FCSAA Baseball Chair and the FCSAA Scoreboard Coordinator.
Rank |
Team |
Record |
Pts |
Pvs |
1. |
Tallahassee (22) |
38-5 |
220 |
1 |
2. |
Miami Dade |
32-5 |
187 |
2 |
3. |
State College of Florida |
32-9 |
175 |
3 |
4. |
St. Johns River State |
32-13 |
149 |
4 |
5. |
Gulf Coast State |
29-14 |
113 |
5 |
6. |
Seminole State |
26-11 |
103 |
7 |
7. |
Palm Beach State |
29-15 |
94 |
8 |
8. |
Polk State |
28-14 |
50 |
6 |
9. |
Lake-Sumter State |
25-15-1 |
44 |
10 |
10. |
Broward |
27-18 |
42 |
9
|
Also receiving votes: Chipola 15, Santa Fe 9, Hillsborough 7, Central Florida 2.
LakeHawks Prevent the Sweep with the win over Seminole State Saturday
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Lake-Sumter State College got solid pitching from David Wood and light's out relief work from Kuehl McEachern Saturday in a 4-2 win against Seminole State in Sanford. Wood got a no decision after allowing two runs in five innings. McEachern pitched the final four innings, allowing three hits and striking out two while improving to 5-0 on the season.
Offensively, Kris Hodges went 1-for-3 and scored the winning run when Dakota Higdon ripped a double down the left field line. Matt Wisniewski had a triple, and Sam Thomas went 3-for-4 with an RBI. Albert Lefran tied the game with an RBI single in the seventh and Taylor Saris went 2-for-3 with a double.
LSSC improved to 25-15-1 overall and 11-7 in the Mid-Florida Conference. The LakeHawks will play a non-conference game at 3 p.m. Friday at Pasco-Hernando CC in New Port Richey.
Nuss Dominant in Seminole State Win Friday over LakeHawks
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Former Mount Dora High School standout Garrett Nuss dominated Lake-Sumter State College Friday, limited the LakeHawks to three hits in eight innings, to lead Seminole State to a 6-0 win at the LSSC baseball complex. Seminole State battered the LakeHawks with 12 hits and took advantage of five fielding errors, which led to two unearned runs.
Nuss struck out 10 and walked one in a 110 pitch effort. He was staked to a 2-0 lead in the first inning and Seminole State added solo runs in the second and sixth innings and closed out the scoring with two in the eighth. LSSC starter Michael Hennessey took the loss and fell to 1-4 on the season. He pitched five innings and surrendered three runs, one earned, on five hits. Bobby Holsombach and David Webb pitched in relief of Hennessey. AC Carter paced Seminole State at the plate with three hits and John Gandolfo had two.
LSSC had no player with multiple hits. Dakota Higdon, Albert Lefran, Michael Haynes and Chris Blanton provided the LakeHawks' offense. Higdon had the team's only extra base hit, a double.
LSSC fell to 24-15-1, 10-7 in MFC, while Seminole State improved to 26-10, 10-4 in MFC. The LakeHawks play Seminole State at 1 p.m. today in Sanford.
Seminole State clips Lake-Sumter State on Wednesday
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
LSSC is 24-14-1, 10-6 in MFC following a 2-1 loss Wednesday to Seminole State College in Sanford. Matt Wisniewski had two hits, including a triple, and scored the LakeHawks lone run. Joe Dinardo (5-6) took the loss in relief. He pitched 1 2/3 innings and allowed two earned runs. Four LSSC pitchers combined to allow seven hits in the game.
The LakeHawks host Seminole State at 2:30 p.m. Friday at the LSSC baseball complex.
LakeHawks remain in the Top 10, but drop a spot to No. 10
April 2, 2013
The FCSAA Baseball Coaches’ Poll, with number of first-place votes in parentheses, 2013 record, previous rankings and total points in voting by FCSAA baseball coaches, the FCSAA Baseball Chair and the FCSAA Scoreboard Coordinator.
Rank |
Team |
Record |
Pts |
Pvs |
1. |
Tallahassee (18) |
37-5 |
207 |
1 |
2. |
Miami Dade (4) |
29-5 |
191 |
2 |
3. |
State College of Florida |
29-9 |
169 |
3 |
4. |
St. Johns River State |
29-13 |
130 |
5 |
5. |
Gulf Coast State |
26-13 |
121 |
4 |
6. |
Polk State |
28-10 |
100 |
6 |
7. |
Seminole State |
24-10 |
82 |
7 |
8. |
Palm Beach State |
26-14 |
65 |
8 |
9. |
Broward |
26-15 |
53 |
-- |
10. |
Lake-Sumter State |
24-13-1 |
40 |
9 |
Also receiving votes: Santa Fe 30, Chipola 14, Hillsborough 5, Central Florida 2.
Dropped from rankings: No. 10 Chipola
No. 9 LakeHawks take CCF Monday
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
The postseason push is moving along for the Lake-Sumter State College baseball team. David Wood pitched seven solid innings and Kuehl McEachern was lights out in relief Monday to power the LakeHawks to a 2-1 win against the College of Central Florida at the LSSC Baseball Complex.
Wood improved to 5-0 with the win and McEachern extended his own school mark with his 11th save of the season. Wood, a former standout at South Lake High School, allowed one earned run on four hits and struck out two. McEachern, a former Eustis star, surrendered two hits in two innings.
Kris Hodges scored the winning run for LSSC in the sixth inning. He opened the frame with a walk and eventually came around to score on a single by Jake Frisosky. Hodges had one hit of the LakeHawks' six hits. Leadoff hitter Dakota Higdon paced LSSC with two hits and the game's first run in the opening inning.
Matt Delay took the loss for CCF (22-18). Delay pitched a complete game and fell to 1-4 on the season. LSSC, the No. 9 ranked team in the state, improved to 24-13-1 overall and 10-5 in the Mid-Florida Conference. The LakeHawks will play at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at Seminole State College in Sanford.
LSSC Drops Road Game Saturday
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Lake-Sumter scored first, but couldn't overcome a pair of crooked numbers Saturday and dropped a 4-3 decision against the College of Central Florida in Ocala. CCF scored two runs in the sixth and seventh innings for the win. LSSC plated a solo run in the fifth and two in the eighth.
Dakota Higdon and Albert Lefran had two hits apiece for the LakeHawks (23-13-1, 9-5 MFC). Jonathan Ripoll pitched 2 1/3 innings in relief of LSSC starter Joe Dinardo and was tagged with the loss. LSSC will take today off before hosting CCF at 3 p.m. Monday in the series finale.
LSSC picks up win; McEachern sets mark for saves
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Lake-Sumter State College continues to pile up victories and earn respect throughout the state. Along the way, the LakeHawks are establishing new school records, as well. Dakota Higdon scored three runs, while he and Steve McClellan had two hits apiece Friday in a 6-4 win against the College of Central Florida at the LSSC Baseball Complex.
In addition, Kuehl McEachern notched his 10th save of the season to set a new school record. The LakeHawks scored two runs in the first, third, and sixth innings to secure the win. LSSC had eight hits and committed two errors.
Dylan Jones, the third LSSC pitcher of the game, got the win and improved to 2-1. Michael Hennessey started and went four innings. Joe Marotta took the loss for CCF.
LSSC (23-12-1, 9-4 MFC), the ninth ranked team in the state, plays CCF at 1 p.m. today in Ocala.
LakeHawks remain at No.9 in the latest FCSAA Coaches' Poll
March 26, 2013
The FCSAA Baseball Coaches’ Poll, with number of first-place votes in parentheses, 2013 record, previous rankings and total points in voting by FCSAA baseball coaches, the FCSAA Baseball Chair and the FCSAA Scoreboard Coordinator.
Rank |
Team |
Record |
Pts |
Pvs |
1. |
Tallahassee (14) |
33-5 |
184 |
1 |
2. |
Miami Dade (4) |
27-5 |
171 |
2 |
3. |
State College of Florida |
26-9 |
133 |
3 |
4. |
Gulf Coast State (1) |
26-10 |
125 |
4 |
5. |
St. Johns River State |
26-12 |
102 |
8 |
6. |
Polk State |
27-7 |
101 |
5 |
7. |
Seminole State |
24-9 |
62 |
-- |
8. |
Palm Beach State |
24-12 |
60 |
10 |
9. |
Lake-Sumter State |
22-12-1 |
37 |
9 |
10. |
Chipola |
25-13 |
35 |
7 |
Also receiving votes: Broward 25, Central Florida 5, Santa Fe 5.
Dropped from rankings: No. 6 Broward.
LakeHawks Edge the Vikings in 10 innings on Monday
Lake-Sumter State College used a single, hit by pitch, sacrifice bunt, and two walks to defeat St. Johns River State in 10 innings on Monday in a Mid-Florida Conference matchup by the score of 1-0. With the win, the LakeHawks improve to 22-12-1, 8-4 in MFC. Chris Blanton led off the 10th inning with a single to left field. Kevin Corton pinch ran for Blanton and the next batter, Sam Thomas was received a hit by pitch to advance Corton to second base. Taylor Saris executed a sacrifice bunt to move the runners up a base. After Dakota Higdon was intentionally walked to load the bases, Kris Hodges drew a walk to score Corton and secure the victory for the LakeHawks. Offensively, the LakeHawks had seven hits in the game with no player having multiple hits.
On the mound, David Wood was outstanding again by throwing six shutout innings, allowing three hits and striking out seven hitters. Kuehl McEachern earned his fourth victory of the year by throwing four scoreless innings, allowing two hits and striking out two hitters.
The LakeHawks are back in action on Friday in the first game of Mid-Florida Conference series with the College of Central Florida. First pitch is at 3:00 p.m.
LakeHawks Drop Second in a Row on the Road
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Lake-Sumter State College took an early lead, but surrendered four runs in the second inning and again in the fourth in a 9-4 loss Saturday against St. Johns River State College in Palatka. The game was stopped in the fifth inning due to rain. Matt Wisniewski had three hits for the LakeHawks and scored two runs. Albert Lefran added two hits and two RBIs.
LSSC used three pitchers, with reliever David Webb absorbing the loss. Webb allowed four runs on six hits in 1 2/3 innings. LSSC (21-12-1, 7-4 MFC) hosts St. Johns River State at 3 p.m. Monday at the LSSC baseball complex.
LakeHawks blanked by Vikings in battle of ranked teams
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Lake-Sumter State College is enjoying one of its best baseball seasons ever. The LakeHawks have already surpassed 20 wins and are ranked among the state's top 10 teams. LSSC had a chance to build on its impressive resume Friday when the ninth ranked LakeHawks hosted No. 8 St. Johns River State. And the LakeHawks did just that, but so did the Vikings.
Josh Garcia scored on a two-out bloop single in the third inning and starting pitcher Reid Love pitched 8 2/3 shutout innings to hand LSSC a 1-0 loss. A total of seven hits, three by the LakeHawks, were surrendered in the classic pitcher's duel. Love allowed three hits and LSSC starter Michael Hennessey permitted four in five innings. The bullpens for both teams did not allow a hit.
Garcia had half of the Vikings' hits. In the third, he singled to left and moved to second on a sacrifice bunt. A flyball to deep right-centerfield moved him to third with Casey Eddinger coming to bat. Eddinger's two-out single eluded second baseman Kris Hodges to score Garcia with what turned out to be the winning run.
After being humbled by Love for most of the game, the LakeHawks tried to mount a ninth inning rally. Taylor Saris singled to center and moved to second on a sacrifice by Hodges. Dakota Higdon then reached when Eddinger failed to handle a grounder cleanly. After a Matt Wisniewski ground out to advance Saris and Higdon, CJ Robinson was called on to snuff out the potential rally and struck out Steve McClellan to end the game.
Higdon, Wisniewski, and Saris had the hits for the LakeHawks. LSSC, now 21-11-1, plays at 1 p.m. today against St. Johns River State in Palatka. The game time was moved up two hours in an effort to avoid potential inclement weather.
Blanton's Double Late Leads LakeHawks to Road Victory on Wednesday
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
David Wood earned his fourth win of the season and Kuehl McEachern garnered his ninth save Wednesday to lead Lake-Sumter State College to a 4-2 win on the road against Florida State College-Jacksonville. The LakeHawks improved to 21-10-1 with the win and bolstered its standing among the state's elite teams. LSSC entered the game as the No. 9 team in the latest Florida College System Activities Association coaches poll, which was released Tuesday.
Wood went seven innings, allowing two hits and no earned runs while striking out seven. McEachern finished up with two no-hit innings. Offensively, LSSC was led by Dakota Higdon, who had a double and an RBI, as did Chris Blanton. Jake Frisosky had a single and an RBI.
LSSC hosts St. Johns River State College at 3 p.m. Friday at the LSSC baseball complex. St. Johns River State is ranked No. 8 in the latests FCSAA poll.
Lake-Sumter State Scores Big in Early Innings in Win Against Flagler
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Lake-Sumter State College scored seven runs in its first two innings Tuesday and cruised from there to a 7-1 win against the Flagler College junior varsity at the LSSC baseball complex. The game went only seven innings in a pregame arrangement by both head coaches.
The LakeHawks had only six hits against four Flagler pitchers, but LSSC took advantage of four walks and three errors. Only three runs scored by LSSC were earned. Michael Haynes was the only LSSC player with two hits. He had a double and three RBIs. Dakota Higdon and Kris Hodges scored two runs apiece. Jonathan Ripoll got the win for the LakeHawks (20-10-1). Ripoll went two innings and allowed two hits and one run.
The LakeHawks are back in Mid-Florida Conference action on Wednesday when they travel to Florida State College-Jacksonville for game three of the series. First pitch is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.
LakeHawks Move Up a Spot in FCSAA Coach's Poll
March 19, 2013
The FCSAA Baseball Coaches’ Poll, with number of first-place votes in parentheses, 2013 record, previous rankings and total points in voting by FCSAA baseball coaches, the FCSAA Baseball Chair and the FCSAA Scoreboard Coordinator.
Rank |
Team |
Record |
Pts |
Pvs |
1. |
Tallahassee (12) |
29-5 |
206 |
2 |
2. |
Miami-Dade (10) |
24-5 |
195 |
1 |
3. |
State College of Florida |
24-8 |
174 |
3 |
4. |
Gulf Coast State |
25-9 |
137 |
7 |
5. |
Polk State |
25-7 |
112 |
4 |
6. |
Broward |
22-10 |
81 |
- |
7. |
Chipola |
23-11 |
80 |
6 |
8. |
St. Johns River State |
24-11 |
78 |
9 |
9. |
Lake-Sumter State |
19-10-1 |
58 |
10t |
10 |
Palm Beach State |
19-12 |
32 |
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
Also receiving votes:
Seminole State 31, Central Florida 15, Northwest Florida State 6, Santa Fe 5.
Dropped from rankings: No. 8 Seminole State, No. 10t Central Florida
Former LSSC Pitcher Pitches for Italy in the World Baseball Classic
Former LakeHawks pitcher, Nick Pugliese participated in the 2013 World Baseball Classic with Italy. Pugliese appeared in four games for the Italians, picking up a win against Mexico with 1 1/3 innings of hitless relief. He threw two innings overall and recorded a 4.50 ERA. Pugliese pitched for LSSC in 2005-2006 before moving on to Stetson University for his final two years of college baseball. He signed with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim as an undrafted free agent in 2008 and played with the organization for three years before being released in 2011. For the past two years, Pugliese has played professionally for the Fortitudo Baseball Bologna in the Italian Baseball League.
Dinardo terrific on the mound to lead the LakeHawks to a Conference Win
Joey Dinardo threw six shutout innings en route to his fifth win of the season to lead the LakeHawks to a 5-4 win over visiting FSC-Jacksonville on Monday. Dinardo only allowed four hits and struck out three batters. Kuehl McEachern earned his eighth save of the season with three innings of relief, allowing one earned run.
Offensively, LSSC scored a run in the first inning when Steve McClellan singled home Dakota Higdon with two outs. The LakeHawks added another run in the seventh inning on a two out RBI single from Chris Blanton. In the eighth inning, the LakeHawks plated three runs due to two hits and two FSC-J errors. Dakota Higdon (2-for-4, run scored) and Steve McClellan (2-for-4, 3 RBIs) paced the LakeHawks offense.
The LakeHawks (19-10-1, 6-2 MFC) are back in action Tuesday in a non conference matchup when they host the Flagler College JV. First pitch is at 3:00 p.m.
LSCC Gets No-hit and Drops Second Conference Game
Brooks de Montluzin was just one walk and two hit batsmen short of a perfect game and finished with a no hitter on Saturday to lead Florida State College-Jacksonville to a 3-0 win over Lake-Sumter State College. FSC-J opened with a run in the first inning, then added two more in the third. LSSC pitching held up the rest of the way with Michael Hennessey throwing five innings giving up three runs in the loss. He falls to 1-2 on the year. Bobby Holsombach threw three scoreless innings in relief.
The LakeHawks (18-10-1, 5-2 in MFC) are back in action on Monday with game two of the series with FSC-J at home. First pitch is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.
LSSC Drops 4-2 decision to Santa Fe on Friday
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Santa Fe scored four runs in the first inning Friday and solid pitching made the lead stand up in a 4-1 win over visiting Lake-Sumter State College. Joey Dinardo took the loss for LSSC, giving up four runs in his two innings of work. The LakeHawks collected two hits on offense. Albert Lefran tripled in four plate appearances while Taylor Saris managed a run scoring single.
The LakeHawks return to action when they travel to take on Florida State College-Jacksonville at 1:00 p.m. Saturday.
LSSC Moves to 5-0 in Conference Play
The Lake-Sumter State College might prefer the road to the comforts of home. In their last two games played at the LSSC baseball complex, the LakeHawks have played a total of 30 innings, including 12 Wednesday against Santa Fe College. at least, LSSC picked up a pair of wins in the marathon games. Sam Thomas singled home Steve Mcclellan with two outs to give the 10th ranked LakeHawks a 4-3 win in their first game since earning a state ranking.
Kuehl Mceachern, who was named the national junior college association region 8/Florida college system activities association pitchers of the week, earned the win with six innings of relief. Mceachern gave up two runs - none earned - and allowed four hits while striking out 11. David Wood started on the mound for the LakeHawks. The former South Lake standout went six innings and allowed one earned run and six hits. LSSC managed only seven hits. Thomas and Kris Hodges led the way with two apiece. Thomas also scored two runs.
LSSC improved to 18-8-1 and 5-0 in the Mid-Florida Conference with its second win in three days against Santa Fe the LakeHawks plays Santa Fe in the last of a three game set at 3 p.m. Friday in Gainesville.
LakeHawks Enter the State Coach's Poll This Week
March 12, 2013
The FCSAA Baseball Coaches’ Poll, with number of first-place votes in parentheses, 2013 record, previous rankings and total points in voting by FCSAA baseball coaches, the FCSAA Baseball Chair and the FCSAA Scoreboard Coordinator.
Rank |
Team |
Record |
Pts |
Pvs |
1. |
Miami Dade (17) |
21-4 |
196 |
2 |
2. |
Tallahassee (3) |
26-4 |
175 |
3 |
3. |
State College of Florida |
21-7 |
153 |
4 |
4. |
Polk State |
22-6 |
140 |
1 |
5. |
Palm Beach State |
19-8 |
110 |
5 |
6. |
Chipola |
19-9 |
81 |
7t |
7. |
Gulf Coast State |
21-9 |
67 |
10 |
8. |
Seminole State |
19-7 |
52 |
9 |
9. |
St. Johns River State |
21-10 |
34 |
-- |
10t. |
Central Florida |
19-11 |
31 |
-- |
10t. |
Lake-Sumter State |
17-8-1 |
31 |
-- |
Also receiving votes:
Santa Fe 16, Broward 7, Northwest Florida State 7.Dropped from rankings: No. 6 Santa Fe, No. 7t Broward
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FCSAA STATE PITCHER OF THE WEEK - MARCH 12TH
Kuehl McEachern,
Lake-Sumter State
Sophomore - RHP
Eustis, Fla.
Lake-Sumter State College’s Kuehl McEachern is this week’s NJCAA Region 8/FCSAA Baseball Pitcher of the Week. McEachern, a sophomore from Eustis, Fla., was 1-0 with one save and a 0.00 ERA in four appearances during the voting period. McEachern pitched 12.0 scoreless innings beginning with a one-inning outing (no-decision) against the Flagler JV on March 4. He then played a major role in Lake-Sumter State’s three-game sweep of Daytona State. He was the winning pitcher in game one (March 6) with 1.1 innings of work and picked up a six-out save in game two (March 7). In the series finale on March 8, he recorded a no-decision but not before tossing 7.2 scoreless innings in relief – he entered with two runners in scoring position and one out in the top of the eighth and pitched through the 15th inning. He allowed only three hits and one walk while striking out eight, helping Lake-Sumter State eventually claim a 7-6 victory in 18 innings. For the week, McEachern allowed only four hits and two walks while striking out ten.
LSSC Wins Again on the Road Monday at Santa Fe
The LakeHawks produced 20 hits and 13 runs en route to a 13-12 win at Santa Fe on Monday afternoon. The LakeHawks took the lead for good in the top of the fourth inning when they batted around and scored six runs. A three run fifth inning and two run sixth inning rounded out the scoring. Offensively,the LakeHawks were led by Dakota Higdon (5-for-6), Albert Lefran (3-for-6, 4 RBIs), Matt Wisniewski (3-for-4, 2 RBIs), and Steve McClellan (3-for-6, 2 RBIs). Kris Hodges and Taylor Saris also had multi-hit games.
On the mound, six LakeHawks pitchers threw in the game. Bobby Holsombach picked up the win to move to 4-0 on the year. He threw three innings, allowing two runs on three hits. Steve McClellan picked up his first save of the season by throwing a scoreless ninth inning.
The LakeHawks (17-8-1, 4-0 in MFC) are back in action for game two of the series against Santa Fe on Wednesday at the LSSC Athletic Complex. First pitch is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.
Upcoming Games
Wednesday, 3/13 vs Santa Fe College - 3:00 p.m.
Friday, 3/15 @ Santa Fe College - 3:00 p.m.
Saturday, 3/16 @ FSC-Jacksonville - 1:00 p.m.
Monday, 3/18 vs FSC-Jacksonville - 3:00 p.m.
Tuesday, 3/19 vs Flagler College JV - 3:00 p.m.
Wednesday, 3/20 @ FSC-Jacksonville -3:00 p.m.
LakeHawks Edge Daytona State 7-6 in 18 Innings
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
It's a good thing today is an off day for the Lake-Sumter State College baseball team. Many of the LakeHawks likely are sleeping in late following Saturday's 7-6, 18 inning marathon win against Daytona State at the LSSC baseball complex.
Sam Thomas scored the winning run when Kris Hodges was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded in the 18th inning. Earlier in the frame, Taylor Saris scored on a single to left by Dakota Higdon. In the top of the inning, Kyle Scott gave Daytona State a 6-5 lead when Zeke Sanchez singled to center. Cody Mizelle surrendered Higdon's hit and Hodges' hit batsman. He came on in the 18th in relief of Daytona State pitcher Matt Warren, who tossed nine innings in relief.
The LakeHawks never led until the final outcome and needed a three run seventh inning to tie the game. For the LakeHawks, Joe Dinardo got the win with three innings of work. He allowed one run on one hit and struck out two. Kuehl McEachern was brilliant on the mound with 7 2/3 innings of scoreless relief. McEachern struck out eight and allowed only three hits.
The two teams combined for 30 hits and stranded 40 baserunners. Twelve pitchers on both staffs combined to make nearly 600 pitches. Matt Wisniewski and Taylor Saris had three hits for the LakeHawks, as did Sam Bates and Nathan Bond for Daytona State. Wisniewski and Sanchez scored two runs.
LSSC improved to 16-8-1 with the win and 3-0 in the Mid Florida Conference. The LakeHawks travel to Gainesville on Monday to take on Santa Fe College. First pitch is at 3:00 p.m.
LakeHawks Stay Undefeated in Conference by Winning on the Road Friday
From Daily Commercial Staff Report
Joe Dinardo allowed one run in three innings of relief Friday to lead Lake-Sumter State College to a 5-2 win against Daytona State in Daytona Beach. Five pitchers for the LakeHawks combined to only give up seven hits and two runs in the game.
The LakeHawks made the most four hits in the win. Albert Lefran had two hits, as did Sam Thomas.
Kuehl McEachern pitched two scoreless innings in relief for his seventh save of the season. LSSC (15-8-1, 2-0 MFC) hosts Daytona State at 1 p.m. today at the LSSC baseball complex.
LakeHawks Win Pitcher's Duel to Open Mid-Florida Conference Play
Frank Jolley, Staff Writer Daily Commercial
Albert Lefran had only one hit Wednesday in Lake-Sumter State College's game with Daytona State. But he made it count. Lefran blasted a solo homer over the rightfield fence in the eighth inning to lift the LakeHawks to a 1-0 win at the LSSC baseball complex. Lefran's shot was LSSC's only extra-base hit of the contest. Lefran homered on a 1-1 pitch again relief pitcher Clayton Payne, who had struck out Steve McClellan to open the inning.
Kuehl McEachern pitcked up the win, improving to 2-0 on the season. McEachern, a former Eustis High School standout, pitched 1 1/3 innings in relief, allowing no hits and facing only three batters, despite recording four outs. McEachern picked off Sam Bates at first base, with two outs in the top of the eighth.
David Wood started for the LakeHawks and pitched 7 2/3 innings. He allowed two hits and struck out six. Wood struck out the side in the top of the first, setting the stage for a dominant pitching performance. He allowed only two runners to reach third base and did not permit two baserunners in an inning.
Dakota Higdon and Sam Thomas had two hits apiece for the LakeHawks. LSSC improved to 14-8-1 with the win, while Daytona State fell to 8-9-1.
The LakeHawks take today off before facing Daytona State at 3:00 p.m. Friday in Daytona Beach. LSSC will close out the three game set with Daytona State at 1:00 p.m. Saturday at the LSSC baseball complex.
LSSC Gets Outplayed on the Road Monday Against Flagler College JV
The LSSC Baseball Team only managed four hits in the game offensively and fell on the road Monday night to the Flagler College JV by a score of 7-4. Dakota Higdon provided most of the offense by going 2-for-4 and a stolen base. The LakeHawks used six different pitchers in the game. David Webb was tagged with the loss and falls to 0-1 on the year.
The LakeHawks (13-8-1) open Mid-Florida Conference play on Wednesday at home against Daytona State College. First pitch is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.
LSSC Sweeps Doubleheader From Jackson CC on Friday
The LakeHawks pushed six runs across in the first and second inning of the first game on Friday en route to a 14-2 win. Jackson CC issued ten walks and hit three batters that helped in the LakeHawks offensive attack. LSSC had 11 hits in the game and were led by Jake Frisosky (3-for-4, 3B, RBI) and Dakota Higdon (2-for-4, 2 runs, 2 RBIs). Bobby Holsombach picked up the win by throwing four innings, allowing one run on three hits. He improves to 3-0 on the year.
In game two, the LakeHawks rallied from a 3-0 deficit to pick up the win 5-4. David Wood pitched three scoreless innings of relief to pick up the win and improve to 3-0 on the year. Kuehl McEachern picked up his sixth save of the season by pitching two scoreless innings to end the game. Offensively, LSSC only managed six hits but a two out rally in the fifth proved to be the difference in the game. Michael Haynes began the rally with a two out walk followed by a single by Sam Thomas. Chris Blanton drove both runners in with a double to right center field. Blanton (2-for-2, 2B, 2 RBIs) and Kris Hodges (2-for-2, 2 RBIs) led the offense.
The LakeHawks (13-7-1) travel to St. Augustine on Monday to play the Flagler College JV. First pitch is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. LSSC opens Mid-Florida Conference play on Wednesday when they host Daytona State College in the first of three games.
Upcoming Games
Monday @ Flagler College JV - 6:00 pm
Wednesday vs Daytona State - 3:00 pm
Friday @ Daytona State - 3:00 pm
Saturday vs Daytona State - 1:00 pm
LSSC Out Hits ST. PETE on Monday in the Win
From Daily Commercial Staff Report
Dakota Higdon, Steve McClellan, Matt Wisniewski, Sam Thomas and Chris Blanton each collected a pair of hits on Monday to lead the LakeHawks to a 7-3 victory over St. Petersburg College. LSSC scored early and often and held on behind the strong pitching of Michael Hennessey, Joe Dinardo and Kuehl McEachern who combined for 10 strikeouts and against just two walks while surrendering just two earned runs. Dinardo picked up his second win of the young season.
The LakeHawks took the early lead in the second inning when Taylor Saris doubled down the left field line and went to third on a base hit by Thomas, who immediately stole second. Blanton singled to left, driving in Saris. Kris Hodges singled through the hole at shortstop, driving in Thomas.
The LakeHawks would go on to score another run in the fourth, two in the fifth and single runs in the seventh and eighth to account for the final score.
The LakeHawks (11-7-1) next play on Friday when they host Jackson CC (Michigan) in a Doubleheader scheduled to start at 12:00 p.m.
LakeHawks Lose on the Road to Indian River State
Two Fielding errors by LSSC in the fourth inning helped Indian River push four runs across and take the lead for good and go on to win by a score of 8-2. The LakeHawks committed four errors overall in the game. Jonathan Ripoll was tagged with the loss and falls to 1-1 on the year. Ripoll threw 4 1/3 innings, allowing five unearned runs. Indian River had twelve hits in the game against three LakeHawks pitchers.
Offensively, LSSC only managed six hits in the game with Steve McClellan being the only player with multiple hits. LSSC (10-7-1) is right back in action Monday when they host St. Pete College at home. Game time is 3:00 pm.
LakeHawks Win in the Ninth on Saturday Against HCC
Matt Wisniewski drew a one out walk with the bases loaded to drive in Masaki Hook with the winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning Saturday at Pat Thomas Stadium / Buddy Lowe Field. With the win, the LakeHawks improve to 10-6-1 on the year. Offensively, LSSC managed nine hits in the game with Dakota Higdon (3-for-4, 2 runs scored) and Albert Lefran (2-for-3, 3B, RBI, 2 runs scored) recording multiple hit games. Wisniewski drove in three runs.
David Wood started and threw six innings in the no decision. Wood allowed four runs on seven hits and recorded five strikeouts. Kuehl McEachern picked up his first win of the season in relief by throwing the last 2 1/3 innings, allowing one hit and striking out three HCC hitters.
The LakeHawks are right back in action Sunday when they travel to Indian River State College. First pitch is scheduled for 1:00 pm.
Upcoming Games
Monday (2/25) vs St. Pete College - 3:00 pm
Friday (3/1) vs Jackson CC (MI) - 12:00 pm (DH)
Monday (3/4) @ Flagler JV - 6:00 pm
LakeHawks Sweep a Doubleheader on Wednesday
From Daily Commercial Staff Report
Lake-Sumter State College swept a doubleheader Wednesday against the Community College of Baltimore County-Dundalk at the LSSC baseball complex. Scores were 3-1 in the opener and 9-0 in the nightcap.
LSSC managed eight hits against CCBC-Dundalk starter Algenis Vargis in game one. Matt Wisniewski had three hits for the LakeHawks, including two doubles and an RBI. Five of LSSC's hits in the first game were doubles. Albert Lefran had LSSC's only other RBI in game one.
The LakeHawks never trailed, plating two runs in the first and adding an insurance run in the second. LSSC starter Bobby Holsombach pitched a complete game, allowing only four hits and on unearned run. Holsombach struck out seven en route to his second win in as many decisions.
In game two, the LakeHawks used a three run second inning and a four run sixth to cruise to the win. Michael Haynes had three hits for the LakeHawks and three RBIs. Dakota Higdon and Taylor Saris had two hits apiece. Higdon, Kris Hodges, and Saris scored two runs each. Steve McClellan started and pitched four innings for LSSC. He gave up three hits and struck out two. Joe Dinardo pitched two innings in relief, allowing one hit and striking out three, and David Webb struck out two in one inning of relief.
McClellan earned his first victory of the season. LSSC improved to 9-6-1 and plays Hillsborough CC at 1 p.m. Saturday at Pat Thomas Stadium.
LSSC Loses to ST. Pete College on the Road Monday
From Daily Commercial Staff Report
The LakeHawks dropped to 7-6-1 on the season Monday with a 7-5 loss to St. Pete College. Dakota Higdon went 3-for-4 at the plate while Kris Hodges went 2-for-5 and Matt Wisniewski went 2-for-3, including a triple and two RBIs. Jake Frisosky doubled and drove in a run.
Dylan Jones suffered the loss for LSSC. The LakeHawks return to the diamond on Wednesday when they host Dundalk (Md.) Community College in a doubleheader that begins at noon.
LakeHawks Take 9-0 Pounding at hands of Visiting Broward College
From Daily Commercial Staff Report
Mike McGinnity tossed a 3 hit gem over 8 innings on Sunday to lead Broward College to a 9-0 win over homestanding Lake-Sumter State College. McGinnity struck out 2, and did not walk a batter as he dominated a LakeHawks squad that never came close to scoring. Jaime Pozo pitching the ninth inning.
Rightfielder Branden Shaw led the way on offense for Broward with a perfect 3-for-3 performance at the plate, including a long double to left center in the fifth. Bryan Vaughn and Yandy Viera each finished with two hits for Broward.
For the LakeHawks, first baseman Jake Frisosky compiled half the LSSC offense with a pair of base hits while Dakota Higdon and Luke Baynham had the other two.
Joey Dinardo took the loss for the LakeHawks. LSSC is back in action on Monday when they travel to St. Pete College at 3:00 pm. The game will be played at Jack Russell Stadium.
Pitching Carries LSSC to Victory Over Indian River State on Saturday
From Daily Commercial Staff Report
Albert Lefran hit a home run and Lake-Sumter State never trailed after taking a first inning lead Saturday en route to a 4-1 win against Indian River State College at the LSSC baseball complex.
Dakota Higdon had two hits for the LakeHawks (7-4-1), which pounded out eight hits in the wins. Kris Hodges, Lefran, Matt Wisniewski, Jake Frisosky, Taylor Saris, and Chris Blanton also had hits. With the exception of Lefran's bases-clearing blast, all of the LakeHawks' hits were singles.
Pitchers David Wood and Kuehl McEachern combined on a three hitter for LSSC. Wood started and threw 7 1/3 innings, allowing three hits and striking out seven. Wood improved to 2-0 on the season, and McEachern notched his fourth save.
LSSC hosts Broward College at 2 p.m. today at the Leesburg Campus.
LSSC Scores Early in the Win over Hillsborough CC on Friday
The LakeHawks baseball team pushed across eight runs in the first inning on Friday and held on to the lead throughout the game in a 10-8 win over homestanding Hillsborough CC. The eight run outburst was highlighted by Dakota Higdon's bases clearing triple with two outs in the first inning. LSSC pounded out 14 hits with four players recording multiple hit games. The offense was led by Albert Lefran (2-for-3, 2 runs scored, RBI), Matt Wisniewski (3-for-4, run, RBI), Kevin Corton (2-for-3, run, RBI), and Sam Thomas (2-for-3, 2 runs scored). Taylor Saris also added two RBIs.
On the mound, four LakeHawks pitchers helped secure the win. Dylan Jones came in relief of starter Bobby Holsombach and pitched two innings to get the win and move to 1-0 on the year. David Webb and Kuehl McEachern combined to pitch the last four innings and allowed zero runs on one hit. McEachern picked up his third save of the season.
The LakeHawks (6-4-1) play again Saturday when they host Indian River State College at 1:00 pm. They also host Broward College on Sunday at 2:00 pm.
LSSC Doesn't Execute Late in Loss to Polk State College
Jonathan Ripoll along with four other LakeHawks pitchers threw effectively in a 4-3 loss to Polk State College on Wednesday. Ripoll made his first start of the season and went four innings, giving up two runs. A two out error in the bottom of the sixth inning pushed two runs across and the lead for the Eagles. Joey Dinardo was tagged with the loss and falls to 1-3 on the year. He threw two innings, giving up two unearned runs.
Offensively, LSSC managed nine hits in the game. Matt Wisniewski and Dakota Higdon had two hits apiece to pace the offense. Higdon also drove in two runs. The LakeHawks (5-4-1) are back in action on Friday when they travel to Hillsborough CC. Game time is 2:00 pm and will be played at the Himes Minor League Complex for the New York Yankees.
LSSC Shuts Out Titans on Monday Night
David Wood and two relievers held the Brevard CC Titans to five hits en route to a 4-0 win on the road Monday night. Wood earned his first college win by throwing six scoreless innings, allowing five hits and striking out four hitters. Bobby Holsombach and Kuehl McEachern combined to throw three innings, giving up zero hits and striking out two hitters.
Offensively the LakeHawks only managed five hits in the game. Albert Lefran (2-for-5, 2 runs scored) and Matt Wisniewski (2-for-5, 2 runs scored, RBI) led the offense. The LakeHawks pushed three runs across in the third inning with the help of a walk and two HBP's with two outs.
The LakeHawks (5-3-1) are back in action on Wednesday when they travel to take on Polk State College at 5:00 pm in Winter Haven.
LSSC Falls Twice to Miami-Dade on Saturday
Frank Jolley, Daily Commercial Staff Writer
The Lake-Sumter State College baseball team outhit Miami-Dade College in two games Saturday, but the Sharks got hits at opportune times and earned a doubleheader sweep against the LakeHawks at the LSSC baseball complex. Scores of both seven inning games was 3-1.
In the opener, LSSC managed only five hits against Miami-Dade starting pitcher Reny Rodriguez and reliever Marcus Barrios. LakeHawks designated hitter Steve McClellan had three of LSSC's hits and the team's only RBI. LSSC jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the first inning. Kris Hodges drew a one out walk and raced to third when Albert Lefran singled to right. Hodges scored the LakeHawks lone run when McClellan followed with a single to right.
LSSC starting pitcher Michael Hennessey kept the Sharks in check until surrendering a run in the fourth and a pair of runs in the fifth. Rodriguez went five innings to get the win, and Barrios pitched the final two innings for the save. Hennessey took the loss, giving up six hits in five innings and striking out four.
In the nightcap, Miami-Dade scored two runs in the first and never trailed in the win. The Sharks also scored in the third. LSSC scored its lone run in the first. Masaki Hook walked and later scored when McClellan grounded out to second base. Joe Dinardo started and took the loss for LSSC. He pitched three innings and gave up three runs, one earned and struck out three. He fell victim to three LSSC errors.
Jonathan Ripoll and David Webb pitched four scoreless innings in relief for the LakeHawks. Kevin Perez went the distance for the Sharks, giving up five hits. No LSSC player managed more than one hit against Perez. Lefran, McClellan, Hodges, Matt Wisniewski, and Jake Frisosky provided the LakeHawks offense.
Miami Dade improved to 7-2 with the sweep. LSSC fell to 4-3-1.
The LakeHawks are next in action on Monday when they travel to Brevard CC in Melbourne for a 5:00 pm game. Remaining games this week are below:
Monday (2/11) - @ Brevard CC -- 5:00 pm
Wednesday (2/13) - @ Polk State College -- 5:00 pm
Friday (2/15) - @ Hillsborough CC -- 2:00 pm
Saturday (2/16) - vs Indian River State College -- 1:00 pm
Sunday (2/17) - vs Broward College -- 2:00 pm
Darkness Foreces LSSC and Brevard CC to Settle for 8-8 Tie
From Daily Commercial Staff Report
Despite impeccable relief work by Dylan Jones and Kuehl McEachern, Lake-
Sumter State College settled for an 8-8 draw with Brevarc CC on Friday in Leesburg. With Brevard holding the 8-7 advantage heading into the bottom of the ninth, Dakota Higdon welcomed BCC closer Chris Gilmore with a double to deep left center. LakeHawks third basemen Albert Lefran then plate Higdon with a single to left. But a double play and a strikeout later, the two teams headed into extra innings as darkness began to descend on the playing field. When neither team as able to score, the game was called.
Higdon provided much of the LakeHawks offense, turning in a 3-for-4 performance at the plate, including a pair of doubles and scoring four runs. Right fielder Matt Wisniewski and designate hitter Michael Haynes each collected a pair of hits for LSSC, with Wisniewski driving in three runs while Haynes plated two. For Brevard, shortstop Chris Dennis led the way at the plate with three hits and two runs scored while TJ Glessner, Jorge Gonzalez and Austin Leeney each finished with two hits.
Lake-Sumter State Baseball Scores Two Runs Late in South Florida State on Monday Night
The LakeHawks capitalized on a two out error in the Eighth inning Monday night to go ahead and win by the score of 7-6. Offensively, the LakeHawks collected 11 hits in the game with Kris Hodges (2-for-4, rbi), Taylor Saris (3-for-4, 2 runs scored) and Matt Wisniewski (2-for-5, 3b, 3 rbis) having multiple hit games for LSSC. On the mound, six pitchers saw action in the game. Jonathan Ripoll earned his first collegiate victory by throwing a scoreless inning of relief. Kuehl Mceachern earned his second save of the season by throwing two innings and striking out two hitters.
LSSC (4-1) is back in action on Friday when they host Brevard CC at 3 p.m. On Saturday, the LakeHawks will play Miami Dade College in a Doubleheader at home beginning at Noon.
Lake-Sumter State Baseball Earns First Road Victory of the Year
The LakeHawks got timely hitting and another dominant performance from starter Michael Hennessey on the mound to defeat Pasco-Hernando CC by the score of 8-1. A five run sixth inning by the LakeHawks broke the game open. Offensively, Albert Lefran (2-for-6, 3B, 3 RBIs) and Matt Wisniewski (3-for-5, 3 runs scored, 3B, RBI) led the attack. Steve McClellan and Chris Blanton chipped in with two hits apiece. Overall, the LakeHawks had 13 hits and drew 8 walks. On the mound, Hennessey turned in his second consecutive impressive start of the season by throwing six shutout innings. He allowed three hits while striking out six hitters. David Webb and Bobby Holsombach combined to throw the last three innings of the game.
The LakeHawks are back in action on Monday when they travel to take on South Florida State College. First pitch is scheduled for 5:00 p.m.
Lake-Sumter State Baseball beats Pasco-Hernando on Wednesday in Extra Innings
The LakeHawks overcame an early 3-0 deficit and battled back to take a 7-6 victory in 10 innings on Wednesday against Pasco-Hernando Community College. Steve McClellan made his first college start and pitched three innings, giving up three runs on four hits. Five LakeHawks pitchers combined to pitch the rest of the way giving up three runs on four hits to help secure the win. Bobby Holsombach got the win in the relief by throwing a scoreless 10th inning. Offensively, the LakeHawks scored six runs on four hits and three walks by PHCC to take the lead. In the 10th inning, Matt Wisniewski led off with a single. After a sacrifice bunt moved Wisniewski to second base, Sam Thomas blooped a single to left field to drive in the winning run. Albert Lefran, Jake Frisosky, Taylor Saris, and Thomas all had two hits to help the LakeHawks improve to 2-1 on the year. The LakeHawks are on the road Saturday at Pasco-Hernando Community College. First pitch is scheduled for 1:00 pm
Lake-Sumter State Baseball Splits Their First Two Games of the Season
The Lake-Sumter State Baseball team opened the season this past weekend. On Saturday, the LakeHawks opened a 3-0 lead after six innings against the FCSAA #1 ranked team Polk State Eagles. The lead quickly disappeared as the Eagles scored four runs in the top of the 7th inning and single runs in the 8th and 9th innings respectively. Michael Hennessey received the no decision in his first start of the season. He went five innings and gave up no runs on two hits while striking out three hitters. Joey Dinardo was tagged with the loss after giving up four runs in 1 1/3 innings pitched. Offensively, the Lakers received multi-hit games from Dakota Higdon (2-for-4, 2 runs scored) and Albert Lefran (2-for-4). Matt Wisniewski chipped in with two RBI’s and Kris Hodges contributed with an RBI single.
On Sunday, the LakeHawks prevailed over visiting South Florida State College by a score of 6-5. The offense strung together nine hits in the game. The top of the order for the LakeHawks played a pivotal role by combining on five of the nine hits overall. Masaki Hook (2-for-5, 2 runs scored, RBI), Higdon (2-for-5, 2 runs scored, RBI), Kevin Corton (2-for-3) paced the offense. Lefran drove in two runs as well. On the mound, David Wood pitched well in relief of starter Bobby Holsombach by going 4 1/3 innings, giving up two hits, no runs, and six strikeouts. A day after getting the loss against Polk State, Dinardo earned his first win of the year in an inning of relief striking out three hitters. Kuehl McEachern earned his first save of the season by retiring the last two hitters of the game.
The LakeHawks (1-1) are back in action on Wednesday when they host Pasco-Hernando CC in a 3:00 p.m. contest.
Upcoming Games
Wed. 1/30 vs PHCC – 3:00 p.m.
Sat. 2/2 @ PHCC – 1:00 p.m.
Mon. 2/4 @ SFSC – 5:00 p.m.
Lake-Sumter Baseball Season Begins Saturday, January 26th
The Lake-Sumter LakeHawks 2013 Baseball Season begins on Saturday, January 26th when Polk State College comes to Leesburg. First pitch is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. The annual Alumni Baseball Game and BBQ is Saturday, January 19th. Alumni B.P. will begin at 10:30 a.m. and the game will start at noon.
LSSC Names Josh Holt to be Next Baseball Coach
Published: Saturday, August 18, 2012
Frank Jolley|Staff Writer
LEESBURG -- Josh Holt is a baseball lifer. His father, Roger, spent time in the New York Yankees and Texas Rangers organizations, while he and his brother, Jonathan, played high school baseball at Leesburg and went on to college careers. Jonathan Holt, in fact, was drafted and spent several years in the Cleveland Indians' minor-league organization.
So for many area baseball fans, it was no surprise when Holt was named on Friday as the new head coach at Lake-Sumter Community College. Holt replaces Rich Billings, who resigned in July after five seasons at LSCC. Billings has since accepted an assistant coaching post at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. Holt was the Lakers' pitching coach under Billings.
In addition to his coaching duties, Holt will be the school's post-secondary transition coordinator with the Admissions office. Holt is entering his seventh year at LSCC. He came to the school after coaching the 2006 season at Florida Tech University in Melbourne.
A 2001 graduate of Leesburg, Holt went on to play four years at Flagler College in St. Augustine. In 2010, he was named to the school's All-Decade Team. LSCC won't be Holt's first head coaching post. He led the Leesburg Lightning in the Florida Collegiate Summer League during the team's inaugural season in 2007. Holt led the Lightning to a 23-12 record and the FCSL championship. He was also a coach for the Winter Park Diamond Dawgs in 2006. During his tenure in the FCSL, Holt coached eight players who went on to play professional baseball.
Under Holt's tutelage, the Lakers pitching staff improved its Earned Run Average for each of the past five seasons. In 2008, LSCC hurlers posted a 6.92 ERA, followed by marks of 5.225, 5.18, 4.98 and 3.72 in 2012. LSCC's pitching staff recorded it the ERA in school history in 2012. Five pitchers had ERAs below 4.00 for the season, and eight pitchers moved on to finish their college careers at four-year schools.
In 2011, Nic Kovacs and Ethan Bader earned All Mid-Florida Conference honors. Kovacs was selected to the Florida College System Activities Association All-State Second Team and was tied for wins in a season with eight. The Lakers also reached the FCSAA playoffs for the first time in school history in 2011. Since 2008, more than 40 former LSCC players have earned opportunities to play at four-year colleges.