Inside Lions Baseball wishes you a Merry Christmas!

Opening weekend is February 17-19 at The Pat, as the Lions take on Indiana State.  All three games are set to begin at 1pm.

Three Lions Earn Degrees

Saturday was a big day off of the diamond for the Lion baseball family, as three members earned degrees at the 2011 Fall commencement excercises. 

Joseph Koon, a RHP from Saltillo, MS, earned a bachelor's degree in General Studies.  Mitchell Haynes, who played SS for the Lions from 2007-08, earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration.  Earning his master's degree in Health & Kinesiology was Matthew Schexnayder, who was the Lions catcher from 2007-08.

Congrats to Joseph, Mitchell, and Matt! 

SLU Alumni Baseball Game

The annual Alumni game, which pits the SLU baseball alum against the 2012 Lions, will be held on Saturday February 4 at "The Pat".  First pitch is scheduled for 1pm.

For those former players interested in playing in the alumni game contact Cole Catalano at cole.catalano@yahoo.com.  If you do not want to participate in the game but would like to take batting practice on the field, BP will start at noon.  And don't forget about the annual Pre-Season banquet which will be held on Friday night at Twelve Oaks on the Southeastern campus.  Coach Artigues is looking for a great alumni turnout.

SLU Baseball Alumni weekend...where the past meets the present!

Dates to Remember

Here are some important dates to mark down on your calendar:

January 15th - Lions report back to campus for spring practice
Friday February 3rd - Lions Baseball Pre-Season Banquet at Twelve Oaks
Saturday February 4th - SLU Alumni Game at "The Pat"
February 17-19 - 2012 season opener vs Indiana State at "The Pat"

More details about the banquet and Alumni game will be sent out later.

Did You Know?

Did you know.....SLU utility IF Michael Rutland's father, Ronnie, was a member of the Lions 1975 Division II College World Series team.  The 1975 Lions, who finished 3rd nationaly in the final polls, won the NCAA DII South Regional to advance to the World Series.

Houston Baptist to Join the Southland Conference

The Southland Conference and Houston Baptist University announced today that Houston Baptist will become the 11th member of the conference beginning July 1, 2013.  The newest member of the SLC will then become eligible for conference championships and NCAA automatic bids in most of the league's sports.

Watkins Honored at Halftime of SLU Football Game

After earning 2011 Louisiana Collegiate Pitcher of the Year, First Team All-Louisiana, ABCA All-South Region, and second team All-Southland Conference honors, SLU's Tyler Watkins was named the 2011 Southeastern Male Athlete of the Year. 

Watkins was honored during halftime of the SLU football game on Thursday night.  Once again Watkins gave a dominant performance, as he showcased his signature Michael Jackson "kick" to the delight of the Lion Nation!

Congrats Tyler!

Summer Baseball Blog Recognizes Hebert

The College Summer Baseball blog named Lions IF Brock Hebert as one of the top 30 position players in the Coastal Plain League for his performance this past summer.  Hebert, who played for the Thomasville Hi-Toms, was ranked the 11th best position player on the list.  The Bourg, LA native hit .330 and led the league with 34 stolen bases.

Top 30 Position Players in the CPL

Did You Know?

Did you know.....In each of his head coaching stops, Jay Artigues holds the school record for wins in a season at each school.  Artigues won 46 games in 2001 at Bossier Parish Community College, 46 games in 2005 at Pearl River Community College and 40 games in 2010 at Southeastern.

2012 Schedule Released

Southeastern released its 2012 baseball schedule today. Click the links below to view the 2012 schedule and to listen to Jay Artigues discuss the 2012 schedule.

2012 Baseball Schedule

Listen to Jay Artigues Discuss the 2012 Baseball Schedule

Fall World Series Wrap-Up

Click the link below to listen to head coach Jay Artigues discuss how the pitching dominated throughout the fall, dual threat players, and what the Lions look to accomplish moving forward.

Artigues Fall Wrap-Up

Fall World Series - Game 3 Recap

The Green team avoided the sweep with a well played 1-0 victory over the Gold team on Saturday afternoon in the seven inning finale of the Fall World Series.  The Gold team won the Fall World Series with their 3-2 and 6-1 victories in Games 1 and 2.  The stat of the series comes at the hands of the SLU pitchers, as they surrendered only seven earned runs in 52 innings.

Fall World Series - Game 2 Recap

With their 6-1 victory on Thursday night the Gold team wins the Fall World Series.  They defeated the Green team in extra innings on Wednesday night 3-2.  The next challenge for the Gold is can they complete the sweep, as the final game of the series will be Saturday.  First pitch is set for noon.

Fall World Series - Game 1 Recap

Gold team takes 1-0 series lead as they win Game One in 10 innings 3-2.  Game two is Thursday with first pitch set for 6pm.  With a win the Gold team wins the Fall World Series.

Rosters for Fall World Series

Monday night the Lion's seniors gathered in the war room to draft the teams for the Green/Gold Fall World Series.  After much evaluation the teams were selected and the trash talking began.  Here is a roster of the Green and Gold teams.  The Fall World Series is Wednesday (6pm), Thursday (6pm), and Saturday (noon) at "The Pat".

Artigues Announces Fall World Series Schedule

With the conclusion of fall practice Lions skipper Jay Artigues has announced the scheduled start times for the best of three Green-Gold Fall World Series at "The Pat".  Games one and two will be played on Wednesday and Thursday with 6:00pm start times. While game three is slated for Saturday with a noon first pitch.

Did You Know?

Did you know.....former Lion All-American Mackey Waguespack (1995, 97-99) is the Southland Conference career Home Run leader with 56 round-trippers.

Lions Get New Look Coaching Staff

When former associate head coach/recruiting coordinator Justin Hill announced he was taking the same position in his home town at UL-Monroe, one would think the Lions might take a hit on the recruiting trail.  But enter Matt Riser, who Jay Artigues promoted to recruiting coordinator/top assistant, and the Lions have not missed a beat. 

Fall Bash Reminder

Lion Nation do not forget this weekend is the annual Fall Baseball Bash.  The Fall Bash is Saturday October 15 at Twelve Oaks on the Southeastern campus.  Doors open at 7pm.

Did You Know?

Did you know.....former Lion Gavin Fingleson (1998-99) holds the record for the highest batting average in the Southland Conference tournament.  The SLU Hall of Famer hit .636 (7-11) during the 1999 SLC tournament.

This Weeks Intra-Squad Schedule

As the SLU Lions continue their fall practices, two more intra-squads have been scheduled for this week.  The Lions will hit the diamond on Wednesday (Oct 5) at 2:15pm and then again on Sunday (Oct 9) with first pitch set for 5:00pm.  Opening weekend of the 2012 season is February 17-19, as SLU will host Indiana State at "The Pat".

All practices/intra-squad games are free and open to the public. PLEASE REMEMBER TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

Reminder About the Fall Baseball Bash

Tickets are on sale now for the "Fall Baseball Bash". This year's "Bash" looks to be bigger and better than ever before. It will be held on Saturday, October 15 at Twelve Oaks on the Southeastern campus. Doors open at 7pm.

Intra-Squad Schedule Set for Weekend

The SLU baseball team will continue its fall workouts this weekend with two intra-squad games Saturday and Sunday at "The Pat".  First pitch on Saturday is 2pm.  Sunday's first pitch is set for 4pm.  All practices/intra-squad games are free and open to the public. PLEASE REMEMBER TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

Gougler Named to All-Jayhawk League Team

The summer honors continue to roll in for SLU baseball players, as senior OF Cody Gougler was recently named to the All-Jayhawk League Team.  Gougler, who helped lead the Hays Larks to an appearance in the National Baseball Congress World Series, ranked 5th in the Jayhawk League in hitting with a .366 average.   The Huntsville, TX native finished the summer with 13 doubles, 2 HRs, 32 RBIs, and had a .466 on-base percentage.

Click to View the 2011 All-Jayhawk League Team

Did You Know?

Did you know.....Southeastern owns the 2nd highest win total of all Division 1 schools in the state of Louisiana over the last five years with 178 wins, trailing only LSU who has 211.  Rounding out the top five are UL-Lafayette (171), Tulane (169), and Louisiana Tech (148).

Get Your Tickets for the Fall Baseball Bash

Tickets are on sale now for the "Fall Baseball Bash".  This year's "Bash" looks to be bigger and better than ever before.  It will be held on Saturday, October 15 at Twelve Oaks on the Southeastern campus.  Doors open at 7pm. 

Three Intra-Squads Set for this Weekend

Coming off of five straight seasons of winning at least 30 games and three straight seasons of winning at least 35 games, the SLU Lions continue to prepare for 2012 season with their Fall workouts.  Coach Jay Artigues and his Lions will host three intra-squad games on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (Sept 23-25).   Please check back for the start times.

All practices/intra-squad games are free and open to the public. PLEASE REMEMBER TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

First Intra-Squad Set for Sunday

The Lion Nation can get their first glimpse of the 2012 edition of Lions baseball, as coach Jay Artigues will put the team through their first intra-squad game of fall workouts. First pitch is set for noon following the annual Parent Social.

All intra-squads are free and open to the public.

Did You Know?

Did you know.....with his 201 wins Lions skipper Jay Artigues joins Pat Kenelly (211) and Greg Marten (348) as the only coaches in program history to win 200 games.  In his six years in Hammond Artigues has compiled a 201-143 record.

Fall Baseball Bash Set for October 15

The annual SLU Lions Fall Baseball Bash is set for Saturday October 15 at Twelve Oaks on the Southeastern campus.  Doors open at 7:00pm. 

This year's bash will be bigger and better than ever, as there will be live music, dancing, food and drinks.  And not to get lost in the party atmosphere will be the $5,000 draw down raffle.  When you need a break from the dance floor you can head on over to the silent auction to bid on Lion memorabilia and other great items that will be new to the auction.

Did You Know?

Did you know.....in 2007 the Lions led the nation (NCAA Division 1) in double plays per game.  SLU turned a school record 73 double plays in 55 games, finishing the season with 1.33 double plays per game.  The Lions beat out Creighton and Illinois for the lead, as they both finished with 1.26 per game.

SLU Athletics Channel on YouTube

Be sure to visit the SLU Athletics Channel on YouTube by clicking the YouTube logo on the left menu.  The YouTube logo appears below the College Baseball Links section.  The SLU Athletics Channel on YouTube provides video from the SLU athletic deaprtment covering all Lion sports in the form of coaches' shows, press conferences, and student-athlete interviews.  Check it out!

New "Did You Know?" Feature Added to ILB

Inside Lions Baseball has added a "Did You Know?" feature to its blog.  In the feature ILB will provide some facts and figures of SLU Lions baseball history, along with other Lions baseball trivia.  Our hope is to provide the Lion Nation with some tidbits that some of our readers may or may not already know.

Northwoods League Names Koon Pitcher of the Night

SLU senior RHP Joseph Koon was named the Northwoods League Pitcher of the Night for his performance on August 1 in the Thunder Bay Border Cats 1-0 victory over Deluth.  Koon racked up 10 strikeouts in his 8 1/3 innings of shutout ball.

Click Here to View the Northwoods League Article

Perfect Game List Hebert in CPL Top Prospect List

Perfect Game recently listed junior IF Brock Hebert as the #39 ranked prospect in the Coastal Plain League this summer.  Hebert, who played for the Thomasville Hi-Toms, hit .330 for the summer.  He finished the season ranked in the top 5 in the league in runs scored (4th/42), hits, (4th/69), total bases (5th/97), and stolen bases (2nd/34).

Click Here to View the Top Prospects in the CPL

Slade Named One of CRL's Best

SLU Lion newcomer Harry Slade was recently named one of the top 15 position players this summer in the Cal Ripken League by the College Baseball Summer Blog.  Slade, a junior OF, ranked number 15 on the list as he hit .309 and scored 30 runs for Youse's Orioles.  Slade also led the Orioles to the AAABA National Championship in Johnstown, PA where they defeated the New Orleans Boosters in the title game.

Click Here to View the Top 15 Position Players in the CRL

Did You Know?

Did you Know...In 23 games with the Ogden Raptors (Dodgers), former Lion Justin Boudreaux is 11-11 in stolen bases.

Are You Ready for Some....Baseball?

That is right Lion Nation....Baseball season is here.  Well sort of.  The 2012 edition of Lions Baseball have reported to campus, taken their physicals and are moving at full speed as they prepare for the upcoming fall season.

Miley to Make Big League Debut

Wade Miley makes his major league debut for the Arizona Diamondbacks tonight against the Atlanta Braves in Atlanta.  First pitch is scheduled for 6pm cst.  Miley, who was called up Sunday evening will be making his first career start as a major leaguer. 

Pictured are Champ and Casey Artigues, Wade, and his dad, Wendell after a game day lunch.

Janway, Pace Lead Quincy Gems to Title

Congrats to Josh Janway and Jonathan Pace as they led the Quincy Gems to the 2011 Prospect League championship over the summer.  Click Here to View the Article

Miley Called Up To The Bigs After Dominating Zephyrs

Former Lion LHP Wade Miley was called up to The Show on Sunday evening to join the Arizona Diamondbacks.  Miley, coming off of a complete game win with the AAA Reno Aces, becomes the first Lion to reach the Majors Leagues since Jeff Williams did it with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1996.

Former Lion Great Visits Zephyr Field This Weekend

Wade Miley

Former Lion great and Loranger native Wade Miley is scheduled to pitch Saturday against the New Orleans Zephyrs at Zephyr Field in Metairie, LA.  First pitch is scheduled for 6pm.  Miley, playing for the Reno Aces (AAA affiliate for the Arizona Diamondbacks), enters the contest with 3-1 record to go along with a 4.17 ERA.  In 45.1 innings pitched, the Lions all-time strikeout leader (259) has recorded 47 strikeouts. 

Miley, who was drafted by the Diamondbacks in the supplemental first round of the 2008 MLB draft (43rd overall pick), is the highest drafted athlete in SLU school history.

RPI Changes on Tap for College Baseball

The NCAA Baseball Rules Committee has put a proposal on the table to adjust the Rating Percentage Index (RPI) which , if passed, would take effect with the 2013 season.  Kendall Rogers of Perfect Game takes a look at how it will impact college baseball.

Kendall Rogers on the Proposed RPI Change

SLU Names Watkins Athlete of the Year

Tyler Watkins

The SLU Athletics Department has named senior pitcher Tyler Watkins the 2010-11 Male Athlete of the Year.  After excelling on the field and in the classroom this past year Watkins was chosen by a vote of the SLU Athletics Department.

The Petal, MS native finished the season with a 10-3 record, to go along with a 3.26 ERA.  He finished the season ranked in the top 10 in the Southland Conference in victories (1st), innings pitched (6th), and ERA (9th).  For his performance he was named Louisiana Collegiate Pitcher of the Year, First Team All-Louisiana, ABCA All-South Region, and second team All-Southland Conference.

Kendall Rogers Giving Props to Another Lion

In his 3rd edition of Summer Roundup, Kendall Rogers has listed LHP Steven Poche as a top five performer in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League.  In six appearances Poche has a 3.06 ERA in 32 1/3 innings. The PGCBL All-Star also has struck out 29 and walked eight.  In the 2nd edition Rogers listed Lions catcher Jacob Fisher as a top five performer in the Coastal Plain League.

Click Here to View Summer Roundup

Poche Named to PGCBL All-Star Game

RHP Steven Poche has been named to the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League All-Star Game, which will be played on Monday July 18 in Old Brookville, New York.  Poche, representing the Albany Dutchmen, will be a member of the  East squad in the inaugural All-Star game for the PGCBL.  Poche sports a 2.95 ERA with 19 strikeouts in 21.1 innings pitched.

Click Here to View the PGCBL All-Star Rosters

Pace, Janway Named to Prospect League All-Star Game

1B/3B Jonathan Pace and RHP Josh Janway have been named to the West squad in the Prospect League All-Star Game representing the Quincy Gems.  Pace is currently hitting .320 with seven 2B and 15 RBI's.  Janway is 3-2 with two saves and a 1.35 ERA, which is 3rd best in the league.

Click Here To View the Prospect League All-Star Roster

Poche Named PGCBL's Pitcher of the Week

LHP Steven Poche was recently named the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League's Pitcher of the Week for his complete game shutout against the Elmira Pioneers on July 6.  Poche scattered four hits and struck out seven batters in the Albany Dutchmen victory, dropping his ERA to 2.95.

Click Hear to View the PGCBL Article

Kendall Rogers Shows Fisher Some Love

Checkout Kendall Rogers' recent edition of Perfect Game's Summer Roundup.  In his recent in-depth summer coverage, Rogers' takes an inside look at some of the notable performances from a few of the top collegiate summer leagues.  In his Coastal Plain roundup he shows some love to Lion catcher Jacob Fisher listing him in his "Five Standout Performances" section. 

Under Artigues Lions are Getting It Done

Here is a great article put out by the SLU athletic department on the accomplishments of the Lions baseball program, on and off the field, under the direction of Jay Artigues.

Lions Thrive on the Field and in the Classroom

Hebert Named CPL Hitter of the Night

The Summer College Baseball Blog has named SLU 2B Brock Hebert the Coastal Plain League Hitter of the Night for June 22.  Hebert, playing for the Thomasville Hi-Toms went 3-3 with a 2B, run scored, and a stolen base in the Hi-Toms 4-2 win over Forest City.  Lion teammate and Hi-Toms teammate Jacob Fisher was named honorable mention Hitter of the Night as he went 1-4 with a home run.

ABCA Honors Watkins

Senior RHP Tyler Watkins keeps rolling in the post season awards as he was named to the ABCA All-South Central Region Baseball 2nd team.  Watkins was previously named the LSWA Louisiana Collegiate Pitcher of the Year.  The Petal, MS native was 10-3 on the season with a 3.26 ERA.  He finished the year leading the Southland Conference in victories, 6th in innings pitched and 9th in ERA on his way to being named a 2nd team All-SLC selection.

Watkins was one of 12 SLC players named to the 27 man team which consisted of schools from the Sun Belt, Southland, CUSA, and the SWAC.

SLC Names Cryer as a Scholar-Athlete of the Year

Senior Josh Cryer is one of 24 student-athletes who have been selected as 2010-11 Southland Conference Scholar-Athletes of the Year.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE SLC SCHOLAR-ATHLETE ARTICLE

Summer Catch

With the grind of a 56 plus game collegiate season coming to an end you would think college baseball players would be hitting the beach for a little R&R.  Well R&R will have to wait for some Lion baseball players as they have found new homes for the summer; homes throughout the country where they flock to refine their skills in the traditional collegiate wood bat summer leagues.  These guys wouldn't want it any other way!

2011 College World Series Schedule

Kendall Rogers of Perfect Game has posted the complete schedule for the 2011 College World Series which begins this weekend in Omaha, NE.  Dates and times are listed along with the ESPN network carrying the games. Enjoy the "Greatest Show on Dirt".

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2011 CWS SCHEDULE

Pace Named Summer Ball Blog Hitter of the Night

Johnathan Pace was named the Prospect League's Hitter Night for his performance on June 12.  Pace went 4-6 with 2 2B, BB and 3 RBI for the Quincy Gems in their win over Dekalb County.  Pace is now hitting .435 on the summer.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE SUMMER BALL ARTICLE

Watkins Honored as LSWA Pitcher of the Year

Senior RHP Tyler Watkins was named the Louisiana Sports Writers Association Pitcher of the Year on Saturday the association announced.  Junior SS Justin Boudreaux, a recent 14th round draft pick of the Los Angeles Dodgers, was named to the LSWA All-Louisiana 2nd team.  Sophomore 2B Brock Hebert was named Honorable Mention.

Efferson Selected by Angels

Senior RHP Brandon Efferson was selected by the Los Angeles Angels in 37th round of the 2011 MLB draft.  Efferson was the 1,125th player selected.

Dodgers Select Boudreaux

Junior SS Justin Boudreaux was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 14th round of the 2011 MLB draft.  Boudreaux was the 434th pick of the draft. 

NCAA Super Regionals Schedule

Kendall Rogers of Perfect Game has posted the complete schedule for this weekend's NCAA Baseball Super Regional action.  Date and times are listed along with the ESPN network carrying the games.  Grab yourself an ice cold beverage, put some steaks on the grill and sit back and watch some college baseball.  Just click the link below.

CLICK HERE FOR SUPER REGIONALS SCHEDULE

Sorenson's Tips to a Winning Office Bracket

College Baseball's most gifted writer, Eric Sorenson, has put together a tidbit list for all us stitch heads on how to win your NCAA College Baseball office bracket.  So read his article from today's post on College Baseball Today and fill out those brackets.

HOW TO WIN YOUR OFFICE BRACKET

2011 Photo Gallery

This photo gallery is compliments of Ms. Helen Addison. Her hard work and support of Lions Baseball is greatly appreciated. Please click the link below to view the gallery.

2011 Lions Baseball Photo Gallery

Cryer Named Academic All-American

Senior 3B Josh Cryer was recently named a 2nd Team Academic All-American on the 2011 Capital One Academic All-America Baseball Team, as selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA).  Cryer becomes the first baseball player in SLU history and the 13th overall SLU student-athlete to earn Academic All-America honors.

On Deck - SLC Tourney

#4 SLU Lions (0-1) vs #1 Texas State Bobcats (0-1)
SLC Tourney - Elimination Game
Bobcat Ballpark - San Marcos, TX
Noon Thursday May 26

CLICK HERE FOR SLC TOURNEY INFO

On Deck - SLC Tournament

Southland Conference Tournament
#4 Lions (35-20, 18-14 SLC) vs #5 Sam Houston Bearkats (34-22, 17-16 SLC)
Bobcat Ballpark - San Marcos, TX
4pm Wednesday May 25

CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT THE TOURNAMENT FIELD

CLICK HERE FOR TOURNAMENT INFO

Lions Place Seven on All-SLC Team

The SLU Lions placed seven members on the 2011 All-Southland Conference Teams by a vote of league coaches and sports information directors.  Leading the way was SS Justin Boudreaux, RHP Tyler Watkins, and RHP Brandon Efferson, who were selected to the 2nd Team.

Watkins, Hargis Get Honorable Mention Honors

Seniors Tyler Watkins and Cass Hargis were named honorable mention Southland Conference Player of Week for their performances his past weekend against Northwestern State.  Watkins was named honorable mention Pitcher of the Week as he tossed his 5th complete game of the season in the Lions 5-0 win over the Demons on Thursday night.  Watkins ran his record to 10-3, as he scattered eight hits, walked one, and struck out two.  Hargis, who notched his 298th hit on Friday night, hit .500 (4-8) in the series.  The senior OF went 3-5, with a triple, RBI, two runs scored, and two stolen bases in the Lions 5-0 win.  On Friday night he went 1-3, with a run scored and a stolen base.

SLC Players of the Week

SLU Splits with Demons, Gets 4 Seed in Tourney

The SLU Lions split their season series finale with Northwestern State winning game one 5-0 and falling to the Demons 13-3 in game two.  Due to standing water in the outfield at Brown-Stroud Field game three of the series was cancelled and will not be made up.  Not playing the game coupled with Texas A&M Corpus Christi's win over Sam Houston on Saturday left the Islanders a half game ahead of the Lions in the standings, which pushes SLU to the four seed in the Southland Conference tournament.

Lions Celebrate Their Own

Check out this player-made video commemorating Senior Day at The Pat.
View here

From the Dugout with Tyler Watkins

Tyler Watkins

To get an inside look at what it is like to be a member of the 2011 Southeastern Louisiana University baseball team, ILB has asked senior RHP Tyler Watkins to write a weekly journal giving the Lion Nation a behind the scenes look at one of the top programs in the Southland Conference. To read all of Tyler's weekly journals you can click on his picture on the left menu.

Here is journal #7 for the 2011 season.

On Deck - Lions vs Northwestern State

SLU Lions (34-19, 17-13 SLC) vs Northwestern State Demons (21-31, 10-20 SLC)
Brown-Stroud Field - Natchitoches, LA
Game 1:  6:30pm Thursday May 19
Game 2:  6:30pm Friday May 20
Game 3:  2pm Saturday May 21

Senior Send-Off at The Pat

Sunday, May 15, was the final home game of the Lions 2011 season.  On this day the seniors were celebrated at "Senior Day".  Each was presented on the field with their family and given a framed jersey bearing their uniform number.
It was an emotional day at The Pat as this roster includes several 3+ year members of the Lions Baseball Program.
Congrats to all the baseball seniors and their families.

Player-Graduates Tip Their Hats

On Saturday, May 14th Southeastern LA University held its Spring Commencement at the UC.  Well the Lions Baseball team had a game on that day, so the player-graduates were recognized on the field pre-game.  Shown above are Josh Cryer, Matt Fowler (student/coaching asst), Joe "Bear" Sparacino, Jacob Ott, Jared Ashford, Trey Martin, Cass Hargis, and Jeff Harkensee.  Not pictured is pitcher Tyler Watkins who tipped his hat from the bullpen.
Congratulations to each of these very special student-athletes!

Watkins Garners Honorable Mention Honor

Senior RHP Tyler Watkins was named honorable mention Southland Conference Pitcher of the Week for his performance this past week that saw him earn two wins on Saturday.  Watkins pitched two innings in relief of the Lions extra inning 5-4 win over SFA, which was completed on Saturday due to the rain.  Then in his scheduled start the Petal, MS native pitched 5.2 innings and struck out four in the Lions 9-4 series clinching victory. 

Watkins Named SLU Student Athlete of the Week

After earning the rare feat of winning two games in one day senior RHP Tyler Watkins has been named the Southeastern Male Student Athlete of the Week.  Watkins earned two wins in the three game series with Stephen F. Austin over the weekend.  In game one, which was suspended Friday night due to rain, the Petal, MS native pitched two innings in relief as the Lions won 5-4.  Watkins then was the winning pitcher in the Lions 9-4 series clinching victory as he pitched 5.2 innings with 4 strike outs.  Watkins leads the SLC with nine wins.

WATKINS NAMED SLU STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

On Deck - Lions vs Stephen F. Austin

 SLU Lions (32-18, 15-12) vs Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks (30-18, 17-10)
"The Pat" - Hammond, LA
Game 1:  6pm Friday May 13
Game 2:  2pm Saturday May 14
Game 3:  1pm Sunday May 15 (Senior Day)

Cryer Awarded Southland's Ultimate Academic Honor

Senior Josh Cryer has been named a recipient of the F.L. McDonald Postgraduate Scholarship, which is awarded by the Southland Conference.  The award is given to graduating male and female letter winners with the highest cumulative GPA during their enrollment at Southland Conference universities.  This prestigious award is the SLC's ultimate academic honor for its top graduates.  CONGRATS JOSH!!!

CRYER AWARDED TOP SLC ACADEMIC HONOR

Lions Celebrate Mother's Day

It was a Mother's Day celebration at The Pat on Sunday, May 8th.  

Mothers in attendance received a free box of popcorn and those Lion player moms in attendance received a special yellow rose from their favorite Lion baseball player, their son of course!

The rose was handed to the moms after the ladies lined up across the diamond and threw out the "first pitch" to their sons.

It was a lovely day at the ballpark.  Thanks moms!

Gougler Named SLU Student Athlete of the Week

Junior OF Cody Gougler has been named the Southeastern Male Student Athlete of the Week for his performance this past week.  Gougler hit a double and belted a pair of home runs, as he drove in four runs in the Lions 15-4 win over Nicholls State on Sunday.  For the week Gougler hit safely in all four games hitting .571 with three multi hit games.  

Gougler Named Student Athlete of the Week

Cryer Earns Capitol One Academic All District Honors

Josh Cryer

Josh Cryer has been named to the 2011 Capital One Academic All-District Baseball Team for the 3rd consecutive tear.  Cryer has maintained a 4.0 GPA in accounting and is a 2011 Lowe's SENIOR Class Award nominee.  In 2009-10 the Leesville, LA native was named the Southland Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year, as he is a six time member of the Southeastern President's List.

LSWA Names Gougler Hitter of the Week

The Louisiana Sports Writers Association named junior OF Cody Gougler as the Louisiana Hitter of the Week for his performance this past week.  The Huntsville, TX native hit .571 on the week with a double, 2 home runs, and 4 RBIs.  Gougler's week was highlighted by his 3-4 game in the Lions 15-4 win over Nicholls State on Sunday, where he hit a double and two home runs.  He hit safely in all four games and had three multi hit games in the weekend series against Nicholls.

Lions Drop Series to Nicholls State

It was an ugly weekend that ended with an offensive explosion.  The SLU Lions got roughed up by the Nichols State Colonels on Friday 7-3 then were 10 run ruled in Thibodaux on Saturday 11-1.  The Lions put up 11 hits in both games but could not muster the timely hits as the Colonels racked up a season high 16 hits on Friday then topped it with 17 hits on Saturday.  To make matters worst SLU committed five errors in the two games.

On Deck - Lions vs Nicholls State

SLU Lions (31-16, 14-10 SLC) vs Nicholls State Colonels (21-23, 10-14 SLC)
6pm Friday May 6 - "The Pat", Hammond, LA
3pm Saturday May 7 - Ray E. Didier Field, Thibodaux, LA
1pm Sunday May 8 - "The Pat", Hammond, LA

It was Breezy in the Big Easy as Lions Beat UNO

In weather more suited for an early season February game the SLU Lions beat the UNO Privateers 9-1 at Maestri Field in New Orleans Tuesday night.  With a steady 30 mph wind blowing in from left field and the temps in the low 50's the Lions were able to come up big in the 7th inning by putting five runs on the board.  Jacob Fisher led the way for the Lions going 2-3 with 2 RBI and breaking the ice (yes it was cold out there) with a RBI single up the middle scoring pinch runner Alex Marse for the Lions first run.

Lion Up

This is how you "Lion Up"

SLU baseball videographer Todd Dunnington demonstrates to the Lion Nation how to "LION UP".  Bring your "Lion Up" signal to the The Pat this weekend as the Lions take on in-state conference rival Nicholls State.  Friday's game is for 6pm and Sunday's game is for 1pm.  SLU and the Colonels will play in Thibodaux on Saturday with first pitch scheduled for 3pm.

Lion Up

On Deck - Lions vs University of New Orleans

SLU Lions (30-16, 14-10 SLC) vs UNO Privateers (3-42)
Maestri Field - New Orleans, LA
6:30pm Tuesday May 3

LSWA Names Greenleaf Louisiana Pitcher of the Week

Freshman RHP Jason Greenleaf was named Louisiana Pitcher of the Week by the Louisana Sports Writers Assocaition on Monday.  Greenleaf earned two saves in helping the Lions to a 4-1 week.  On Tuesday Greenleaf pitched 3.1 innings of relief, giving up no runs on no hits and striking out four in a 6-2 win over ULL.  He came back on Sunday and pitched three innings of no hit ball and retired all nine batters he faced in the Lions series clinching 4-2 victory over Sam Houston State.

Greenleaf, Harkensee Garner Honorable Mention Honors

RHP Jason Greenleaf and OF Jeff Harkensee were named honorable mention Southland Conference Players of the Week for their performances during the Lions 4-1 week.  Greenleaf earned honorable mention Pitcher of the Week, as he picked up two saves during the week.  The Covington, LA native pitched 6.1 innings combined against ULL on Tuesday night and against Sam Houston on Sunday, giving up no runs on no hits and striking out five.  Harkensee was named honorable mention Hitter of the Week as he ended the week with a HR, 2 2B, 2 3B, and 6 RBI while hitting .474 in the four games.

SLC Players of the Week

Harkensee Named SLU Student Athlete of the Week

Senior OF Jeff Harkensee was named Southeastern Male Student Athlete of the Week as he led the Lions to a 4-1 week.  Hark highlighted his week by finishing a double short of hitting for the cycle in a 15-5 win over UNO.  Over the weekend, the Arlington Heights native hit two doubles and triple in the Lions 10 inning 5-4 win over Sam Houston State.

Harkensee Named Student Athlete of the Week

SLU "Lions Up"; Takes Series From Sam Houston

"LION UP"

The catch phrase around the Lions clubhouse the last few weeks has been "Lion Up" which means lets play Lions Baseball by playing the game fast and putting pressure on opponents.  Well this weekend in Huntsville, TX the Sam Houston Bearkats witnessed first hand as SLU went "Lion Up" and earned a crucial Southland Conference road series victory and in the process picked up coach Jay Artigues 100th Southland Conference victory as the Lions skipper.

On Deck - Lions vs Sam Houston State

SLU Lions (28-15, 12-9 SLC) vs Sam Houston State Bearkats (28-15, 12-9 SLC)
Don Sanders Stadium - Huntsville, TX
Game 1:  6:30pm Friday April 29
Game 2:  2pm Saturday April 30
Game 3:  1pm Sunday May 1

Lions Swing Past UNO

Jeff Harkensee finished a double short of hitting for the cycle and Brock Hebert launched a three run homerun as the SLU Lions beat the UNO Privateers 15-5 in a game shortened to eight innings due to the mercy rule.  The Lions collected 15 hits and overcame four errors as they ran their record to 28-15 on the season.  Matt Pittari picked up his first collegiate win, as he pitched 4.1 innings in relief.  Pittari surrendered two runs on two hits and struck out five.

On Deck - Lions vs University of New Orleans

SLU Lions (27-15, 12-9 SLC) vs UNO Privateers (3-37)
"The Pat" - Hammond, LA
6pm Wednesday April 27

Lions Beat ULL...Again!!!

The dominance over UL-Lafayette continued for the SLU Lions as they beat the Ragin Cajuns in Lafayette 6-2 for their seventh straight victory over their in state rivals.  With the win the Lions sweep the season series for the third consecutive season.

Hargis Named SLU Student Athlete of the Week

Cass Hargis was named Southeastern Male Student Athlete of the Week as he became the school's all time career hits leader.  The senior OF notched his 277th career hit in an 11-1 victory over Texas A&M-Corpus Christi on Friday night passing former Lion teammate Ty Summerlin.  Hargis hit safely in three of the four games during the week going 2-5 against Tulane and 2-4 in the weekend opener against the Islanders.

Hargis Named Student Athlete of the Week

On Deck - Lions vs UL-Lafayette

SLU Lions (26-15, 12-9 SLC) vs UL-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns (23-18, 10-8 SBC)
M.L. "Tigue" Moore Field - Lafayette, LA
6pm Tuesday April 26

Lopez Named to Stopper of the Year Watch List

Sophomore closer Stefan Lopez has recently been named to the NCBWA Stopper of the Year watch list.  Lopez is one of 45 players named to the list  by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association.  The Stopper of the Year is awarded to the nation's top division I relief pitcher.  The New Iberia, LA native currently leads the Southland Conference with eight saves.  Lopez has a 2.15 ERA and has recorded 39 strike outs in 29.1 innings pitched.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2011 STOPPER OF THE YEAR WATCH LIST

Lions Take Series From Islanders, History Made

The SLU Lions won a much needed conference series against the Texas A&M Corpus Christi Islanders and in the process some history was made at "The Pat".  On Thursday night the Lions picked up an 11-2 victory behind a dominant pitching performance from Brandon Efferson and a hot bat by Joe Sparacino.

On Deck - Lions vs Texas A&M-Corpus Christi

SLU Lions (24-14, 10-8 SLC) vs Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders (22-18, 7-11 SLC)
"The Pat" - Hammond, LA
Game 1:  6pm Thursday April 21
Game 2:  6pm Friday April 22
Game 3:  2pm Saturday April 23

Lions Drop Midweek Bout in the Big Easy

The SLU Lions lost their 3rd straight game as they fell 13-8 to Tulane in New Orleans on Tuesday night.  The Lions looked to take command of the game in the top of the 6th inning when they put three runs on the board to take a 6-4 lead.  However, the lead was short lived as the Greenwave, who takes the season series two games to one, answered in the bottom of the 6th with four runs going up 8-6 and never looking back.

On Deck - Lions vs Tulane

SLU Lions (24-13, 10-8) vs Tulane Green Wave (21-15, 4-8)
Turchin Stadium - New Orleans, LA
6:30pm Tuesday April 19

Lions Drop Series to Texas State

After picking up an impressive 8-5 series opening win on Friday night against Texas State the Lions dropped the next two games of the series losing 4-0 on Saturday and 7-5 on Sunday.  After going 1-2 on the weekend SLU drops to 24-13 overall and 10-8 in the Southland Conference.  The Lions now sit three games back of SLC leaders Texas State and Stephen F. Austin and one game back of third place Sam Houston State.

On Deck - Lions vs Texas State

SLU Lions (23-11, 9-6 SLC) vs Texas State Bobcats (21-11, 11-4 SLC)
Bobcat Ballpark - San Marcos, TX
Game 1:  6:30pm Friday April 15
Game 2:  2pm Saturday April 16
Game 3:  1pm Sunday April 17

From the Dugout With Tyler Watkins

To get an inside look at what it is like to be a member of the 2011 Southeastern Louisiana University baseball team, ILB has asked senior RHP Tyler Watkins to write a weekly journal giving the Lion Nation a behind the scenes look at one of the top programs in the Southland Conference. To read all of Tyler's weekly journals you can click on his picture on the left menu.

Here is journal #6 for the 2011 season.

Lions Strike in the 5th, Beat Southern

Just like in their first meeting in Baton Rouge, lightning struck again during the SLU vs Southern baseball game.  However, this time the strikes came in the 5th inning from the Marucci bats the Lions were swinging, as they put up five runs on four hits to take a 9-4 lead and never look back in their 10-4 midweek win over the Jaguars.

LSWA Honors Hebert

The Louisiana Sports Writers Association named Brock Hebert as the Louisiana Hitter of the Week for his performance this past week.  The Bourg, LA native hit .500 for the week and safely in all four games as the Lions posted a 3-1 record for the week. He went 6-for-12 with a pair of doubles and two runs scored in the Lions’ three-game series at Texas-Arlington.

On Deck - Lions vs Southern

SLU Lions (22-11, 9-6 SLC) vs Southern University Jaguars (19-11, 11-4 SWAC)
"The Pat" - Hammond, LA
6pm Tuesday April 12

Hebert Named Honorable Mention Hitter of the Week

Brock Hebert was named Southland Conference honorable mention Hitter of the Week for his performance this past week.  For the week Hebert was 8-16 batting .500 with 2 2Bs, 2 RBIs, and 2 runs scored.  The sophomore 2B hit safely in all four games getting multiple hits three of the four games.  Hebert's week was highlighted by his 3-5 day in the Lions 5-3 win over UTA on Friday night.

CLICK HERE TO READ SLC RELEASE

Lions Take Series from UTA, Gain Ground in Standings

The SLU Lions went on the road and took care of some business against the Texas-Arlington Mavericks this weekend as they won the series two games to one.  With the series win the Lions move to 22-11 overall on the season and 9-6 in the Southland Conference.  SLU sits tied for 3rd in the SLC standings with Lamar.  But more importantly they are now two games back of leader Texas State.  The Lions travel to San Marcos this weekend to face the Bobcats in a SLC showdown.

On Deck - Lions vs Texas-Arlington

SLU Lions (20-10, 7-5 SLC) vs University of Texas-Arlington Mavericks (16-13, 7-5)
Clay Gould Ballpark - Arlington, TX
Game 1:  6:30pm Friday April 8
Game 2:  2pm Saturday April 9
Game 3:  1pm Sunday April 10

Lions Beat South Alabama

The SLU Lions picked up their 20th win of the season with a 13-8 victory over South Alabama on Tuesday night at "The Pat".  The Lions racked up 13 hits and produced 13 runs as they put crooked numbers on the board in the 4th (3), 5th (2), and 8th (8) innings.  The Lions offense also took advantage of four Jaguar errors.  Jordan Hymel pitched five strong innings as he gave up only one run on two hits.  Hymel picked up his 3rd win of the season as he got the Jaguars to ground out 11 times.

2011 Lions Baseball Photo Gallery

Ms. Helen Addison has posted pictures from the 2011 baseball season on Shutterfly.  To view her pictures please click on the link below.  ILB has also added a page at the top of our home page with a link to the photo galleries.  Thank you Ms. Helen for your work and support of Lions Baseball.  IT IS GREATLY APPRECIATED!  When you see Ms. Helen be sure to thank her.

2011 Lions Baseball Photo Gallery

On Deck - Lions vs South Alabama

SLU Lions (19-10, 7-5 SLC) vs University of South Alabama Jaguars (14-13, 4-5 Sun Belt)
"The Pat" - Hammond, LA
6pm Tuesday April 5

Watkins Receives Honors

Senior RHP Tyler Watkins was named honorable mention Southland Conference pitcher of the week and SLU Male Student-Athlete of the Week for his performance this weekend against Lamar. 

Lions Get Series Win Over Lamar

The SLU Lions picked up a huge series win over Lamar this weekend in Hammond.  After dropping game one on Friday night 3-1 the Lions roared back on Saturday and Sunday winning their second SLC series of the season.

Inside Southeastern Baseball With Jay Artigues Air Times

The following is a release from the Southeastern Louisiana Athletic department.

Each week during the 2011 season, Southeastern Louisiana University baseball fans can tune into “Inside Southeastern Baseball with Jay Artigues,” sponsored by Southern Quality Ford and Champagne Beverage.

On Deck - Lions vs Lamar

SLU Lions (17-9, 5-4 SLC) vs Lamar Cardinals (18-10, 6-3 SLC)
"The Pat" - Hammond, LA
Game 1:  6pm Friday April 1
Game 2:  2pm Saturday April 2
Game 3:  1pm Sunday April 3

Just What the Doctor Ordered

After being in a funk for the last two weeks the Lions got just what the doctor ordered.   A breakout TEAM win.  SLU got solid pitching, timely hits, and played error free defense in their 11-0 win over the University of New Orleans on Tuesday night at "The Pat".  With the win the Lions improve to 17-9 on the season as they welcome SLC rival Lamar to Hammond for a crucial conference series this weekend.

Recap: SLU vs Southern

Officially it will go down as a 9-0 forfeit win for the Lions over Southern.  Although Southern was leading 2-1 in the top of the 8th inning when play was suspended due to lightning, because Southern refused to take the field when play was to resume they officially forfeited the game.

On Deck - Lions vs UNO

Lions (16-9, 5-4 SLC) vs UNO Privateers (1-22)

"The Pat" - Hammond, LA
6pm Wednesday March 30

Lions Get Forfeit Win Against Southern

It will go down as the most bizarre win in Southeastern history.  Trailing 2-1 with runners on 1st and 2nd in the top of the 8th Jonathan Pace was at the plate with no outs when the umpires halted the action due to lightning in the area. 

From the Dugout With Tyler Watkins

Tyler Watkins

To get an inside look at what it is like to be a member of the 2011 Southeastern Louisiana University baseball team, ILB has asked senior RHP Tyler Watkins to write a weekly journal giving the Lion Nation a behind the scenes look at one of the top programs in the Southland Conference. To read all of Tyler's weekly journals you can click on his picture on the left menu.

Here is journal #5 for the 2011 season.

On Deck - Lions vs Southern

Lions (15-9, 5-4 SLC) vs Southern University Jaguars (11-7, 4-2 SWAC)
Lee Hines Stadium - Baton Rouge, LA
6pm Tuesday March 29