Big Man is Back

Zach Jordan, also known to his teammates as Big Man, is one of the top additions to the Blue Devils this year. The 6'3'', 220 ponder is one of the more imposing players. After missing out on last season due to injury, he had a solid fall and aims to re-join the Devils rotation.

The Akron, N.Y. native had an immediate impact on the Devils as a freshman and was nominated for FSU Male Rookie of the Year. As a sophomore, he was one of the top relievers in the SUNYAC, gaining an occasional start. Along with Kyle Grey, they formed the Devils righty-lefty punch out of the bullpen. A big fan of lefties, he is also well-known as the sidekick for current lefty (and roommate) Tommy Morris.

Last season, as a Sports Management major, he was the team's official statistician, taking care of setting up and running the live stat feed on the teams website. He also worked a number of events for the athlteic department, including soccer games, swim meets, basketball games and volleyball tournaments.

Zach missed out on last season due to injury, but is back and ready to roll this year. Baseball Operations Manager Tim Fairhead sat down with Zach so you could get to know him a little bit better,

1) Who has been the most influential Blue Devil in your career thus far?

     Angelo "Ace" Sciandra, he was an upper classmen pitcher when I came in so he was someone always there to answer questions and learn from.

2) What is your favorite season of the year? Why?

     Definitely Spring, baseball season starts and I get to play some golf.

3) What is your greatest strength on the field?

     Being mentally tough and a competitor. 

4) What is an interesting fact about yourself?

     I was born in South Carolina .    

5) If you had to cook a meal for the entire team what would it be?

      Some steak, corn on the cob, and a nice salad. The boys can't go hungry. 

6) What is your most memorable baseball moment?

     Can't pick one in particular but I'd say the spring trip the Florida every year is a blast. 

7) If you were stranded on an island with two other teammates who would you pick and why?

     RJ would be with me for sure because of his general knowledge, the second choice is tough. I'd probably have to pick Kenny. 

8) What song will you request for your walk up song?

     Roots by Flo Rida, I've had it since freshman year.  

9) Who is your celebrity crush?

     Kate Upton. Verlander is a lucky man.   

10) If you could vacation anywhere ion the world where would it be?
     Probably the Bahamas because it's gorgeous and most likely a once in a lifetime opportunity. 

Globe-trotting Blue Devil

Found this story online about our former catcher. Rob is in Texas this week catching up with NY Region Gold Glovers Jeremy Borst (OF) and Joe Kephart (SS).

G'Day, mate. Herrm down under.

Derek Fie, repping the '607'

Derek Fie come to us from Corning High School. He helped lead the Hawks to a stellar season as one of the Hawks top hitters. He played along side teammate Zach Sullivan who was drafted in the 14th round by the Florida Marlins.

Derek was supposed to be accompanied by another fellow Corning Hawk, Chris McKibben, this fall. Chris plans on enrolling in Fredonia in January and joining the Blue Devils then.

Derek Fie, left, with Matt Wilhelm working at the Habitat for Humanity house in Silver Creek

Coach's commene: "Derek worked his way on to the team this fall and earned the respect of his teammates. It'll be great to have hi lefty swing at the 'Wig the next four years."

Baseball Operations Manager Tim Fairhead sat down with Derek so you could get to know him a little better:

1) What's your favorite movie?
     Miracle, its a classic.

2) If you could choose anything to do for a day, what would you do?
     Hang out with Derek Jeter before he retires.

3) If you had to sing Karaoke in front of the team what song would sing?
     Timber by Kesha

4) If you could eat one meal for the rest of your life what would it be?
     Steak, medium with a side of egg noodles and green beans, can't go wrong with that

5) We are coming up on the Holidays, whats on your Christmas list?
     Really hoping for some new sneakers, some new golf gear, and a new bat and glove.

6) What three items would you bring on a deserted island?
    I would bring my phone, fire starter, and a yacht.

7) Who's your celebrity crush?
    Selena Gomez, she is the definition of perfect

8) What was your first job?
    I was a pizza delivery guy, it was awful

9) What do you wanna do after you graduate?
   I want to work in a sports organization.

10) What do you hope to bring to the team this season?
    I plan on bringing on intensity to every game and practice and a will to win everyday

Super sophs

Trot Kelly and RJ Spinella stopped by the office to meet with Baseball Operations Manager, Tim Fairhead. Both are sophomores. Trot (real name Liam) was familiar with the area having played on a travel team out of Dunkirk (3 miles from here) with Max Scharntz and Jake Harford. He is also the fifth Bishop Timon alum to play at Fredonia in the last few years.

Trot's dad, T.K. (Tim) runs the school for the deaf in Buffalo, so Trot is fluent in sign language-- even some sign slang. He was born in Boston and is a Red Sox fan, so he picked up the moniker "Trot" from his favorite player, Trot Nixon.

Trot teamed up with another sophomore, Mike Prentice, to win the NYS American Legion Championship played in Utica two years ago

RJ Spinella, a Utica-area native, was in the stands that day. RJ was a walk-on to the program, and immediately earned his teammate's respect. According to former Blue Devil and last year's team captain Connor Lorenzo - RJ is "always asking questions and trying to soak up knowledge". He is now the team's SAAC rep.

He played infield at Cassville high school, but has moved to the outfield here to utilize his speed. Cassville is a small school, Class C or D, and RJ always speaks with pride of his time there.

RJ received an academic scholarship to Fredonia and has outstanding grades. Let's take a closer look:


1) If you were stranded on an Island and had to pick 2 other teammates to go with you who would you choose?
     Trot: I would bring RJ because I'm pretty sure he lives outdoors anyway. Secondly I would take Mike Prentice because he has an Xbox One
     RJ: I would bring Dan Cecilia because he has savage instincts, and Trot Kelly because he's an all around good guy.

2)If you were trapped in a TV show for one week what show would you choose?
     Trot: Definitely Full House. I would have words with John Stamos.
     RJ: I would have to go with Friends. I can hang out with Jennifer Aniston

3)Willy C or Cranston for food on campus?
     Trot:  Neither, I'm a homemade meals kind of guy.
     RJ: Definitely the FSA Cafe in the Science Center.

4)Whats the greatest strength you will bring to the team?
     Trot: My greatest strength is the positive attitude I bring to the field everyday.
     RJ: I would say its my GPA.

5)What will your walk up song be this season?/
     Trot: Lemonade by Gucci Mane
     RJ: Pump Up the Jams by Technotronics

6)Who is your favorite professional athlete?
     Trot: It's a tie between Kyle Orton and Trot Nixon.
     RJ: Matt Carpenter.

7)What is the number one played song on your iPod?
     Trot: All I want for Christmas is You, by Mariah Carey, with a number of other "fire" playlists.
     RJ: Free Bird by Leonard Skynnard.

8)What's your summer job, do you plan on keeping it after college?
     Trot: I am a town worker and I would love to keep that job!
     RJ: I work at a motorcycle shop and I would stick with it.

Steve Zaprowski

Freshman Steve Zaprowski made a quick impact this fall. Recruited to fill some needs on the mound, Steve had a great senior season at the plat at Will South and was named 2nd Team All Western New York. He was also the MVP of his legion team. In addition to some solid pitching, Steve showed a sweet swing from the left side of the plate this fall. He will be used as a pitcher and an outfielder.

Steve played volleyball in high school to help develop some athleticism and is an avid Bills fan.

Steve with fellow freshman Mike Carmody.

Coach's comment: "Steve was recruited to pitch for us, but he had other ideas. He showed great poise at the plate during the fall, and has shown he can hit at this level. It will be exciting to see how he develops over the next year. He will throw for us this year, and is capable of wrestling away a starting position in the field, too, given the opportunity."

Baseball Operations Manager Tim Fairhead sat down with Steve so you could get to know him a little better:

1) What is the greatest strength you will bring to the team this season?

     I plan on bringing intensity and the will to win to the team this year.

2) If you could be a member of any Sitcom TV family, what family would it be, why?

     I wouldn't want to be apart of any Sitcom family to be honest. 

3) What is the best part of Fredonia so far?

     I love the atmosphere here. The team is filled with a bunch of great guys that have made going to Fredonia a fun time so far. 

4) You are new to our campus, where is your favorite place to hang out on campus, why?

     Dods Hall. I enjoy playing basketball with the guys on the team, its a good time. 

5) What is your typical gameday ritual like?

     I like to stay relaxed and focused on game day up until warmups where I start to get amped up and listen to music. 

6) Which teammate will have the best facial hair at the end of no shave November?

    Other than myself I would have to go with my fellow Freshman Bailey Gauthier, kid can grow a beard.

7) If you would vacation anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

    I would go to Australia. Ive heard its pretty nice there and that there is a lot of things to do there. 

8) What do you believe is the teams greatest strength this year?

     I believe that we are a strong team all around. I feel like we will have an advantage at the plate. We got some guys on the team that can mash. 

9) If you could sit down with any professional athlete who would it be and why?

     Jim Kelly. He's the greatest player in Bills history and I think it would be pretty cool to sit down and get to know him more. 

10) List 3 of your goals this season.

     Win a starting job. Push myself and my team mates to the best of their abilities. Make SUNYAC's 

Teammate, Captain, Leader: Erik Krohl

Erik Krohl is one of this year's team captains. A business major from Syracuse, he has not only done a great job on the field, but is very focused in the classroom. He forms part of the "Donaldson Drive" double-play combo with neighbor Ciro Frontale (Erik went to West Genny, and Ciro went to Bishop Ludden H.S.), and has been helpful in recruiting in the Syracuse area for the team. Freshman Bailey Gauthier also went to West Genny (and plays shortstop), and we have a few hot prospects from that area this year.

Erik was injured on Opening Day last season, and received a medical redshirt, so he may be back next year. He earned his starting spot at SS as a freshman, beating our John Bennett after a handful of games. Bennett, of course, went on to be a Fredonia baseball legend.

Erik excels at 'Mo-vember'.

Coach's comment: "Gamer."

Baseball Operations Manager Tim Fairhead sat down with Erik so you could get to know him a little bit better

1) Going into your senior year, who has been the most influential player in your career?

     Conner Lorenzo. Since we were both middle infielders, we spent a lot of time together and he showed me what kind of work ethic you need to have to succeed at the college level.

2) If you could be any age for one week what age would you pick and why?

     I'd say 27. You're still young and can enjoy life but at the same time people will take you serious. 

3) What is the most memorable class you have ever taken at Fredonia?

    Organizational behavior with Susan McNamara. 

4) What is your favorite memory as a Blue Devil thus far in your career?

     Every spring trip to Florida. After being inside for 6 a.m.'s for a few weeks there's no greater feeling than getting on the field with your teammates in nice weather. 

5) If you were stranded on an island with two other teammates who would you pick and why?

     Ciro and Ryan Carmody. Ciro has been my neighbor back in Syracuse my entire life so he's pretty much another brother to me and I've been living with Ryan since freshman year so we already know how to deal with each other for a long duration of time.

6) What is your greatest strength on the field? Off the field?

     On the field I would say leading by example.  I'm not always the most vocal person so I like to lead with my work ethic.  Off the field I would say just being a good person. I always try to help somebody if they need it.

7) What is your most memorable baseball moment?

     In Cooperstown at the Field of Dreams Tournament we were playing a team coached by former MLB player Todd Zeile. We were losing by 4 runs and my teammate Kevin McAvoy (drafted by the Red Sox in 2014 draft) hit a grand slam to send the game into extra innings. In extras, I somehow fouled a ball off my face and two pitches later hit a walk-off homerun to win the game.

8) If you had to cook one meal for the entire team what would you make and why?

     Chicken riggies. Who doesn't like them?

9) If you were trapped in a TV show for one week what show would you choose?

     The League

10) Describe one of your teammates with just 5 words, than list their name

     Respectful. Focused. Motivating. Ambitious. Generous. I can't put one name cause those words really describe our entire team.

Anthony Schiro

Senior Anthony Schiro is our incumbent starting catcher as a senior. He went to Niagara Wheatfield H.S, but did not become a catcher until he went to Niagara County C.C. Part-way through his sophomore year, he became the starting catcher and helped lead the team to a No. 2 finish at the JUCO World Series in Tyler, Texas.

Anthony was a big reason we had two First-Team All SUNYAC pitchers last year -- Sean Larson (the FSU Male Athlete of the Year) and Kyle Grey, who made it as a relief pitcher.

He is known for his easy-going manner and positive attitude. He already has a job lined up after graduation, and is on his way to being successful on and off the field.

A sports management major, he is currently interning with a baseball academy just outside of Niagara Falls this semester -- passing along his knowledge. A typical catcher. Let's see what Anthony has to say:

A drawing done for Anthony by a friend

1) Who has been the most influential Blue Devil in your career thus far?
     Kenny Johnston, because he is a hard worker and a good leader, and he is very talented on the field.

2)What is your favorite season of the year?
     My favorite season of the year is summer because I get to play baseball and golf everyday.

3)What is your greatest strength on the field?
     My greatest on the field strength would have to be controlling the game behind the plate, and making the pitchers think as little as possible.

4)What is an interesting fact about yourself?
     Following the first game of the Junior College World Series I got interviewed on television for having an outstanding game. (Niagara C.C.C, 2013)

5)If you had to cook a meal for the entire team what would it be?
     I would cook grilled cheese, its simple and delicious.

6) What is your most memorable baseball moment?
     My most memorable baseball moment would be losing in the Junior College World Series finals in extra innings on a controvertial call.

7) If you were stranded on an island with two other teammates who would you pick and why?
     I Quinn Danahy because we could him (he has the most meat on him), and R.J. Spinella because he is super smart we could handle every situation well.

8) What song will you request for your walk up song?
     I will pick O.A.R. This Town as my walk up song.

9) Who is your celebrity crush?
     Anna Kendrick because she is the best looking.

10) If you could vacation anywhere ion the world where would it be?
     I would go to Hawaii because I feel like its all beaches and there is always good weather.

Brotherly love, Ryan and Mike Carmody

Another duo of brothers for the Blue Devils are the Carmodys -- Ryan and Mike.

Ryan is a senior outfielder but still has another year of eligibility after a medical red shirt in his freshman year. Will he come back an extra year to play with Mike? Mike is a catcher who brings a lot of confidence to the field as a freshman. The Carmody brothers could often be seen exchanging words behind the dish during inter-squad games.

The duo hails from Montgomery, New York and went to Valley Central H.S. Ryan is an Exercise Science major, while Mike is undecided.

While the Carmodys are fine players, the most important member of the family is Edythe. Every two years when we travel to New Paltz, Mrs. Carmody cooks up the finest meal of the year after the game. They are a 20-minute Drive from Hawk's Field. Best meal of the season.

Ryan, left, and Mike stopped by the office after a round of BP in the cage. They then headed to the weight room. Tonight, after dinner together, they will head to the library for some studying.

Baseball Operations Manager Tim Fairhead sat down with the duo to learn a little more about them:

1) Who is the better hitter?

     Ryan: Big Carm is clearly the better hitter.
     Mike: Ryan is a good hitter don't get me wrong, but I'm still better than he is.

2) Mike, what is the most important thing you have learned from Ryan?

     A work ethic.

3) Which brother has the better opportunity to get above a 3.0 GPA this season?

     Ryan: I'd say we both have a good opportunity to beat a 3.0.
     Mike: We both are going to have above a 3.0.

4) You're 4 years apart, is this the first time you have played on the same team? If not what other teams did the duo star on?

     The brothers played one year of little league together while their Dad and Uncle Billy coached the team.

5) The family just got a new car, which brother gets the old family car?

     Ryan: Mike would probably get the new car
     Mike: I'm a much better driver than Ryan, so I'd get the car

6) If you both had to cook a meal for the whole team what meal would you cook?
     Ryan: I'd definitely be cooking some Chicken Parm.
     Mike: If I'm cooking for my team they're having the meal of their lives. I would start with a nice appetizer some fried Calamari to really warm their taste buds up. After that I'm bringing out the second course, some clam chowder and a nice Caesar salad. Then for the main course -- a juicy filet mignon fresh off the grill. The main course will be followed by a sorbet to cleanse the pallet for dessert. The dessert I would serve would be a white chocolate raspberry cheesecake.

7) Mike, there is a big rumor you are a KISS fan, tell us more about that experience.

     The KISS incident happened my senior year when me and three of my friends dressed up as the famous band KISS for celebrity day in our high school. That led to us getting kicked out for safety issues. Us getting kicked out blew up all over social networks which lead to a bunch of local radio stations calling and interviewing us to hear our side of the story. Eventually we became the 3rd most searched thing on the internet and radio stations all across the country were calling to interview us. A radio station in Phoenix, Arizona called us and interviewed us then gave us free tickets to the Rock and Roll hall of fame inductions. The day after the Rock and Roll hall of fame we were interviewed on the Today Show and we met the band KISS. 
--> Mike, which band member were you? Gene Simmons
--> Ryan: Favorite KISS song? Rock and Roll All Night
--> Mike? Detroit Rock City  

8) Ryan, who has been the most influential Blue Devil in your career at Fredonia?
     Dan Greco is probably the most influential Blue Devil I have ever played with.
--> Mike, you've met a number of players when visiting your brother, etc. Which alum did you know the best?
Dan Greco and Dan Fetes

9) Walk up songs?
     Ryan: Something by the Drop Kick Murphys (an Irish rock band).
     Mike: No idea.

Joe DiLeo. Baseball player

Joe DiLeo joined the Blue Devils this fall as a senior, giving the team a needed veteran arm. He spent two seasons at Erie Community College, then attended Central Methodist (Missouri) last year. He was recruited by coach Palisin out of ECC, and decided to finish his degree at Fredonia this year.

The righty is definitely a top-stepper as we found out during our fall game at Gannon. He was at the edge of the dugout disecting every pitch. He loves baseball. He has also spearheaded the staff's off-season workouts.

Joe is from a baseball family -- his brother Mark is a junior at Mercyhurst College. Although Joe is new to our program, he has several former teammates on our squad. He has five former teammates that he played with during his two seasons at ECC.

Joe DiLeo delivers a pitch last season as a member of the CMU baseball team.

Coaches comment: "Everything about Joe's attitude is positive. He makes our team better just by being around. If he can be more consistent with his mechanics, he can be one of the top relievers we've had. He will also push for starts on the mound." 

Joe grew up in Buffalo and attended St. Joe's Collegiate Academy, and is majoring in business.

Let's take a closer look.

1) Who is your favorite ECC teammate still with you? 

     I don't have a favorite, but Ricky (Mendiola) and Vinny (Sherman) are two of my closest teammates and friends. They'll definitely be in my wedding. 

2) What do you see as your role this season? 

     I see myself doing everything in my power to make my teammates and myself better ball players.

3) Who is your role model (non family member)?

     Derek Jeter. I love his professionalism.

4) Does Ricky Mendiola's flow look cool or should he go with a sleeker faster hair do?

     Ricky has the best hair in the league hands down.

5) Tell us your favorite Sherman brother story

     A few years ago Vinny and Kyle took me to the little village known as North Collins, where we embarked on unspeakable missions of mischief. 

6) How would you rate yourself as a hitter? Do you think you will get an at bat this season?

     Easily a sleeping giant. sometimes I scare myself with my hidden abilities. If the time is right I'm sure I won't let the team down.  

7) Who is your favorite baseball player? 

     Nolan Ryan, the guys a flat out stud. 

8) What Walkup/Pitching warm-up song will you request this season? 

     Beautiful Lasers - Lupe Fiasco.

9) What is your favorite spot on campus? 

     Williams Center. I love food. 

10) Who is your celebrity crush?

     John Cusack

Two for one. The Shermans.

A pair of new Blue Devils this year are the Sherman brothers -- Vinnie, a senior, and Kyle, a junior. The duo led the North Collins H.S. team to the state tournament a few years back, then played together at Erie Community College.

Vinnie spent last year at Georgetown University. Not that Georgetown, the one in Kentucky.

The Shermans are very similar in a lot of ways. Both bring intensity and fire to the team. Both played middle infield in high school and a lot of outfield at ECC. They both have sweet swings and are fast.

They way to tell them apart? Vinnie is about 30 pounds heavier (all muscle).

                                                    Vinny (Left) and Kyle (Right) with their Dad

Let's get to know them better.

1) What is your walk-up song?
     Kyle:  Either Takillya by Vinnie Maniscalco or Shell Shocked by Juicy J
     Vinny: I usually spend a lot of time choosing the right walk up. I haven't really thought about one for this year but in the past my walk ups have been "Hyptnotize" by Biggie Smalls and "Fireman" by 'Lil Wayne

2) Who is faster?
     Kyle: We will see who has more stolen bases at the end of the year.
     Vinny: Everyone looks at the size difference between Kyle and I and assumes he's faster. I probably beat him in a sprint, but long distance he would smoke me.

3)What was your best memory from ECC?
     Kyle: Both freshman and sophomore Florida trip.
     Vinny: There are too many memories from ECC to choose a specific one. I met some really amazing people because of ECC and I'll carry those memories for the rest of my life.

4) You guys live with another pair of former Kats. Any plans to get rid of all that ECC gear we see you all wearing all the time?
     Kyle: Once we get some more Fredonia gear.
     Vinny: Once we get enough Fred gear we'll stop wearing our ECC gear.

5) You played Legion ball and now AAA MUNY with senior Ben Senior, a known outdoorsman. Have you ever taken a hunting or fishing trip with Ben?
     Kyle: No but some crazy car rides.
     Vinny: Haven't been fishing or hunting with Ben. However, Ben has been a great teammate and we've had a lot of fun times playing ball together over the years.

6) Favorite spot on campus?
     Kyle: Steele Gym
     Vinny: Gotta be the Williams Center. Love the Mozzarella sticks!

7) Best hitter on our team?
     Kyle: Vinny Sherman
     Vinny: We have a lot of good hitters on the team who each have their own strengths and weaknesses. I just cant wait until the season starts so we can all start mashing.

8) North Collins is a small, small town. Best place to hang out in town?
     Kyle: Either Pizza Italia or the High School turf.
     Vinny:A lot of our friends like to hang out at the pizza place in town but we do a lot of hanging out at our high school turf playing sports.

9) Team's strength this year.
     Kyle: I would have to say our hitting, we are going to put up some good numbers this year.
     Vinny:I feel like this is the most complete team Ive played on in terms of the physical aspect of the game. But I think our teams biggest strength is our love of the game. It seems like everyone has something to prove and wants to win as a team and that will be our biggest strength when the season rolls around.

10) What surprised you most about our campus?
     Kyle: The amount of activities there are to do outside of school.
     Vinny: I really like all of Fredonia. The whole campus is really nice and the people are even nicer. Overall I'm really happy to be here.

11) Who does mom like better? Dad?
     Kyle: Mutual, nobody is favorited by either parent.
     Vinny: Kyle is the baby of the family so he tends to get the benefit of the doubt most of the time. Our parents obviously don't play favorites. They're both really excited to watch us play together one last time.

12) Favorite movie?
     Kyle: Hardball
     Vinny: My favorite movie has got to be Hardball. Its a great story and the ending gets me every time.

Hometown Hero. Max Schrantz.

The Devils picked up a solid stick this year with the addition of Max Schrantz. Max graduated from Dunkirk High School, then went to Mercyhurst-North East for two years. He was an All-Region DH and helped the Saints excel in the DII Regional Tournament.

Max is no stranger to our program. He and his younger brother, "Boppo", have attended a number of our clinics in the past. His dad, Frank, coined the phrase "top-stepper" when he was a volunteer assistant a few years back.

Max (left) with former Fredonia assistant Frank, and brother, "Boppo".

Max is also the cousin of teammate Jake Harford and an avid racquetball player.

Let's see what Max has been up to so far.

1) What kind of bat do you swing and why?
     I swing Carrera bats, my dad actually works for the company so he is the one who introduced them to me. I've used them for the past few years and now I can't imagine using anything else.

2) What did you like about Mercyhurst North East?
      My favorite thing about Mercyhurst NE was probably just all the friends I made along the way. By the start of last baseball season we were down to about 20 guys on the team so we became very close.

3) Plans after graduation?
      Honestly I'm not quite sure, I'm working towards a degree in business so I hope to have some opportunities come up after graduation.

4) What is your summer job and do you see yourself sticking with it after graduation.
      I've worked for the City of Dunkirk in the streets department for the last few summers...I'm a garbage man. Hopefully I have some more opportunities after graduation.

5) Most under-rated Blue Devil.
      I don't think any specific player is underrated, I think the team is. We have a lot of guys on the team that can play and it is now up to us to prove it this spring.

6) Better beard mustache combo -- RJ Spinella or Quinn Danahy?
     We will see at the end of no shave November.

7) Cousin Jake is slim and tall. Can he throw down a lot of food.
      I've seen him put down enough food to feed a family of five.

8) You are a local. Where is the best spot to grab a meal in the Dunkirk-Fredonia metroplex?
      Depend on what you're in the mood for, DeJohns downtown has great Italian food, Sullivan's down route 20 for burgers,  or One Stop in Dunkirk for subs. And Mary's Deli in Dunkirk is better than Mary's Deli in Fredonia.

9) If you had to be stranded on a desert island with any one player, who would it be? Why?
      Probably Jake, we wouldn't last long but at least I would go out laughing

10) Will our team get a 3.0 this year?
       I would be surprised if we didn't.

Max's Quote of the Day:
"Baseball is 90 percent mental and the other half is physical." -Yogi Berra

He can do no wrong, Josh Crocetti

Josh Crocetti comes to Fredonia from Hilton H.S. in Rochester and plays second base, left field, center field, and even listed himself as a pitcher. He's an outfielder. He is also an accomplished multi-sport athlete... sort of. He was a First Team All County punter for the Cadet football team.

Coach Palisin says... "Josh came from an outstanding High School program and was immediately able to execute what we asked him at the plate. Showed a lot of polish for a freshman. He also showed great range in center. He is a big part of the reason we are excited about this freshman class."

Baseball Operations Manager Tim Fairhead sat down with Josh to learn a little more about him:

1) What's your Twitter handle?
      @joshcrocetti

2) Cranston or Willy C for food on campus?
     Willy C.

3) Favorite thing about Fredonia so far?
       People are very friendly.

4) Least favorite thing about Fredonia this far?
      The fact there is not a football team.

5) What's the most unusual thing you have ever eaten?
       Calamari.

6) What's your favorite non baseball hobby?
       Any other sport.

7) What can you tell us about your roommate, Steve Zaprowski?
       He was the Homecoming King at Williamsville South HS

8) If you could meet any living MLB player who would it be and why?
       David Wright, he is my favorite Mets player.

9) What do you think you learned from your first fall ball with the Blue Devils?
        I learned that competition is strong and you always have to work hard to earn a spot.

10) What is the number one thing you will bring to the team this season?
        Intensity to win games.

Bailey Gauthier -- West Genny connection

Freshman Bailey Gauthier played his high school ball at West Genesee in Syracuse. He will compete for time at shortstop again this year with another West Genny grad, Erik Krohl. Bailey was also coached by former Blue Devil Al Schoeneck (a West Genny grad) a few years back when Al was a volunteer assistant at W.G.

Bailey rooms fellow freshman Mike Carmody. Having his former teammate Erik already in our program, and rooming with Mike, whose brother Ryan is a senior at FSU, Bailey and Mike had a smooth transition into college. They are the "Veteran Freshmen".

Bailey also pitched in high school, and put up some good strikeout numbers on the mound. He may see some time for the Blue Devils this spring.

According to coach Palisin, Bailey will have an immediate impact on the team. "Bailey had a great showing in our play date against Gannon. He matches his talent with a killer instinct and attitude. He has already stepped up to show he belongs."

Baseball Operations Manager Tim Fairhead sat down with Bailey to learn more about him:

1) What is one fact you can tell us about your roommate Mike Carmody?
    All he does is hit dingers on the baseball field.

2) Whats your favorite non baseball hobby?
     Working Out.

3) If you were stranded on island with 3 of your teammates who would you pick?
     I would pick Erik Krohl, Quinn Danahy, and RJ Spinella.

4) What walk up song will you request this season?
      300 Violin Orchestra by Jorge Quintero.

5) You get your dream job right after graduation, what job is it?
      Coaching an MLB Team.

6) What was your favorite nickname in High School?
      Randy Goatiay.

7) Who is your celebrity crush?
       Jennifer Lawrence (sorry -- no links here)

8) If money didn't matter for 1 day what would you do that day?
      I would take a trip to Italy and eat as much chicken parm, chicken riggies, alfredo, Italian bread, pizza as I can and get my own personal Italian chef to feed me everyday. 

Looking down on the world: Kyle Smith

Kyle Smith is a right-handed pitcher from Wheatland-Chili High School. At 6'5'', he is the tallest Blue Devil. Kyle is a finance major and wants to become a stock broker after his time at Fredonia.  His sister graduated from Fredonia, and Kyle's dad works with Blue Devil alum Conner Lorenzo's dad.

He rooms with fellow freshman, Mike Bessette, his teammate from his American Legion team.

Kyle really loves baseball.

Baseball Operations Manager, Tim Fairhead, sat down with Kyle to get to know him better.

1) Other than baseball what is your favorite hobby?

        Basketball.

2) What is your favorite part of Fredonia so far this year?
         Meeting all the new people.

3) You have the opportunity to get one player in the Baseball Hall Of Fame autograph, who do you choose and why?

         Cy Young because he is one of the most famous pitchers ever to play the game.

4) What is the #1 played song on your IPod?
          Come With Me Now, by the Kongos.

5) If you could live anywhere in the United States where would it be?

          Florida, because I love the heat and could play year round.

6) What fact can you tell us about your roommate, Mike Bessette?
           He's originally from Orlando.

7) Favorite Athlete?
           Peyton Manning

8) In one word, describe pitching coach Matt Bowman.
           "Knowledgeable"

9) Twitter handle?
            @Kaaaaaal7
 

From Livonia with love

A little something to pick you up this Wednesday.

Get going

Today is supposed to mark the first practice, but... you guessed it. Rain! We will try again tomorrow.

We have a couple staff editions. To mention. We picked up former Bonaventure pitcher and local high school legend Bobby Nalepa to our staff. He is currently working on his Master's Degree. Bobby is Dunkirk HS's all time leading scorer in basketball, so he will fit in nicely.

Tim Fairhead is a student assistant. He will be running the baseball operations -- music, stats, web content, Twitter, Facebook, etc. Tim is a junior and has worked in the athletic department for a couple years.

Sean Larson will also be back. Lars is finishing his Math Education degree. He had a great summer in the CVCL again after being named the Fredonia Male Athlete of the Year last spring.

Today also marks the first day of class for the little guy:

A very intense look as he goes to meet his class for the first time. Good luck to his teachers!

I'd like to give a shout out to Zach Hugg. Huggy complained the blog had not been updated all summer. Give yourself a JUCO Claw, Big Guy.

Catching Up

I've spent a good portion of the last week-and-a-half trying to negotiate schedule changes and look for places to play. The weather has been taking up a lot of our time.

We had a nice 6-2 win over Brockport at Houghton.

The trip down there was a mess. We ended up on a muddy dirt road and were fortunate not to get stuck. I would recomend NOT taking Route 39 from Fredonia to Houghton.

We played Brockport tough and executed about as well as we could. We played errorless defense, and converted 4 for 4 on third base and one out situations. Pretty much any situation that came up offensively, we executed. We need to do that in rivalry/SUNYAC games. We do need to cut down on walks, though. We issued six or seven in the nine innings.

On the other hand, Sturm, T-Mo, Joey Tingue and Kyle Grey pitched effectively. The same format worked for us against a solid Bradford team on Sunday.

T-Mo started and gave us three strong. Carl Wolf, Tingue, Joe Korszun and Cody Herman also contributued short, effective outings. We did not execute as well offensively -- gave away 4 third and one situations. However, the bats came through with three in the ninth and got us the win.

I'd like to give a shout out to Alex Foster, Class of 2012. Alex emailed me today and is planning to get involved in the Big Brothers program in Buffalo. Alex is a bright guy -- graduated in 3 1/2 years from Fredonia. He intends to work with young people and let them know to "run with the wise".

Wrapping up FLA... nothing else to do

I wanted to add a few thoughts regarding our Florida trip. It's still below freezing up here and we're back in Steele Hall.

Bright spots from our trip:
- We beat three New York region teams -- Skidmore, St. Lawrence and St. Joe's. We also beat Plattsburgh, but only one of three, so we won't count that. We are looking forward to making up some conference wins soon. Right now we are 4-2 in the N.Y. Region.

- We played excellent competition, and saw No. 1 pitchers from Haverford (a pre-season All Americam), St. Joe's, Knox, Salve Regina and McDaniel. We saw another solid arm in the big 6'5'' righty from No. 3 ranked Johns Hopkins, but we left a lot on the table that game. Good competition to prepare us for the competitive SUNYAC.

- All of our pitchers got in multiple appearances. We need to see who we can rely on with a number of new arms. Best game so far was when freshmen Cody Herman and Jason Weyman combined for nine innings of relief in a 13-inning victory over a pretty good McDanile team. The game ended just before midnight. Fun game to be a part of.

- We were 22 of 23 in stolen bases after not swiping too many last spring. Let's get back to being the Runnin' Blue Devils.

Today at practice, we talked about the areas we need to improve in. If anybody sees Thurston Rockmore, tell him I have his belt. I took it back in '96.

I'd like to give a shout out to Koty Leeper. Koty made the modified team at Dunkirk and they have him working out as a catcher. He's come a long way in the five years he's hung around. Tomorrow, we're heading to Olympia to get him some new catcher's gear.

Split with Cards

Today we split with Plattsburgh in the opening SUNYAC series. Game 2 saw Sturm toss a nice game. Seven shutout innings. Lars threw a CG in Game 1, so we got a lot out of our starters. That will hep set us up stronger on the mound for Game 3. A late-afternoon 4:00 start.

The key for the Cards in Game 1 was four double plays. We had a few hard hit balls, but they were right at the Cardinal fielders. They played solid defense and kept us from mounting a rally. We had a few other scoring opportunities and need to get away from easy fly-ball outs.

Game 2 saw us jump out early and get two runs in each of the first two innings, and chase the Plattsburgh starter. Any time we can get into the bullpen early, that's a positive. Their Game 1 starter went 8 2/3 before we got him out.

It was good to see Ciro start to swing a good bat -- four hits. Ryan Carmody has gotten a lot of action due to injuries, and came up with a big triple and another RBI hit.

Today's W went to Matt Tobias. 'Spider' entered the game as a defensive replacement. He gunned down a runner at third base. He also reached base twice. Until three days ago, he was just a pitcher. He said it felt good to be home. He played outfield in his two seasons at JCC, so he's no slouch.

Close loss, but ready for the Cardinals

We dropped a close one today. We had our chances. Three times we had third base and one out and did not push one across. We had 11 hits, but need to be more timely.

Joey Tingue and Tommy Morris threw well out of the pen. Scoreless four innings. Scott Schuster has continued to shopw he a baseball player -- a lot of clutch at bats and heads up plays. Freshman Mike Prentice got his second start in two days and added two more hits. Good to see him take advantage of his opportunity.

We are at Greenwell's tonight -- putt putt, go carts and the arcade. A little mental break from the game, plus a day off tomorrow. Three games coming up against conference rival Plattsburgh. Always a good game when we play the Cardinals.

I'd like to give a shout out to last year's intern, Jordan Doolittle. He's been following our progress and looking forward to someday lighting up a victory cigar.

Midnight baseball

I didn't have a chance for any updates last night due to our late-ending game. We had a 13-inning thriller vs. McDaniel. We were up 5-3 in the ninth, before McDaniel tied the game with a pair of runs. Four innings later, McDaniel scored a run to take the lead.

Conner Lorenzo finally ended the game with a bases loaded single to score a pair.

It was one of the funnest games we've been a part of in a while. In the 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th and 13th innings, McDaniel got runners on and constantly threatened to score. Freshman Jason Weyman held the rope and refused to let them score. A lot of emotion in every inning. We had as much fun pulling for the fiery freshman as we did competing.

In the 13th, a couple of nasty hops courtesy of Connie Mack field put a pair of runners on with two out. Weyman sawed off the next hitter, but the ball blooped just over Casilios head and out of Conner's reach.

But -- like we did all of last year -- we came back to take a win off the table. After Conner's game-winner, the entire team mobbed him. Quite a scene.

Weyman and Cody Herman got the W for the day. Cody had gone four scoreless before giving up a pair in the ninth. He handed the ball to his former HS teammate for the win. Herman was speechless and had nothing to say after the game. Weyman thanked his defense.

We had to settle for McDonald's in the WalMart after the game. Not much open after midnight on a Sunday.

Game 1 also saw some significant highlights. Nate Lester and Ben Senior, who both are coming off Tommy John surgery, went the first eight innings. Good to see them bounce back after missing out on last season.

We also moved to 3-0 in the New York region after beating St. Joe's.

Monday was a tough day. We ran into a couple of pretty good arms from Johns Hopkins and didn't get much going. Freshman Mike Prentice did get two hits and lined out sharply in his other at bat.

Next up is Knox College, a day off, then the Plattsburgh series. Looking forward to that.

Missed opportunities

We fell to Haverford, 4-3, today. We had four or five opportunites with runners at third and less than two outs that we did not convert. We can't do that and beat a quality team like Haverford.

We did get a 13 strikeout performance from our pitchers, Tommy Morris and Joey Tingue, and contiued to have solid defense.

Haverford's pitcher was a pre-season All American. We were able to work the count, get a handful of hits and muster some walks to get him out after four innings with a pitch-count over 100. Good to see quality pitching down here.

Today's W went to Joey Tingue. He went threw 2 1/3 perfect innings and got us out of a bases-loaded jam in the seventh.

Tommorrow is St. Joe's at 4 p.m. and McDaniel after that.

Pair of NY Region wins

Friday saw us take a couple wins against Skidmore and St. Lawrence. Lars was rock solid in game one. Eight strong. In the eight, after loading the bases with no out, he bore down and struck out the next two. He had the next batter 0-2, before an error extended the inning.

We broke out for 13 hits. Next game we ripped 17. Bobby Frantz had six hits in the DH, and got robbed of another.  A lot of hard-hit outs, too.

Played solid D. With Krohl taking the day off, freshman Ciro Fronatel stepped in at 2B abd made some nice plays. Ryan Cramody earned a couple of starts, and had two RBI in game 1 and two hits in game2.

Kyle Grey -- a late arrival late last night due to the storm -- threw three scoreless in relief.

We also had five doubles into the wind at the stadium. The batters are gaining confidence.

We finished the day at Bellacino's. Gary gave us a nice discount and we did not go away hungry.

Looking forward to Haverford tomorrow. Good chance we'll see their pre-season All American pitcher. Gametime is an early 9 a.m.

Opening Day in the books

We dropped a pair of sloppy games today. A lot of walks put us in the hole. We used seven pitchers on the day. At least a handful of guys got on the mound, including both freshmen pitchers -- Herman and Weyman.

Senior Nate Lester finally got a taste of action. After missing his junior season, it was great to see him out on the mound. He's worked very hard to get where he's at. Big addition to the staff.

Defensively we were sound. I think one error in two games.  Offensively, it is always a challenge early. We expect to see some solid pitching the whole trip, but we need a few more hits.

Captains Kos and Conner combined for five solid hits. Game 1, we saw very little to hit. The SRU senior lefty worked both sides of the plate and changed speeds, but that is what we'll see from the SUNYAC aces.

Lars and Sturm are on the mound v. Skidmore and SLU on Friday. hoping for a good show vs. a couplle of N.Y. teams.

A shout out to Huggy who worked a 20 hour shift, then stayed up to watch the webcast. Miss the Big Guy.

Barely made it!

With our flight out of Buffalo canceled due to the winter storm, we had to scramble like crazy, but made it to Florida. The lacrosse team's flight was also canceled, so we were able to share a crowded bus to Pittsburgh and take off from the Steel City to avoid the major catastrophe going on in Buffalo.

The team was split into five separate flights, ranging from 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. departures, but we got in -- with the exception of coach Bowman and a couple others. They are scheduled to arrive just before midnight on Thursday.

We are back at the famous VPI hotel, which boasts new mattresses and new chairs according to the manager, Jerry. Quite frankly, I can't tell.

Our change of plans got us in a little earlier than expected, and some players were able to get in a round of BP in the early afternoon.

We open against Salve Regina with a doubleheader Thursday. Check back here daily for wrap ups and further insight on our trip.

I'd like to give a shout out to the Class of 2013. Several players responded to some texts. It's the first time in five years Jake Nowak hasn't been here. He really misses getting subs at Bellacino's.

Ian Gallagher stopped by last weekend for a team meal and announced the rooming lists. He says to remind the players to run everything out. Will do, IPG!

Getting to know Conner Lorenzo

Senior second basemen came by today for a few quick questions with Quinn Danahy.

In high school, Conner was a State Rep wrestler making him one of the best wrestlers of his weight class in the state. When asked why he chose to play collegiate baseball instead he told Quinn that it was his first love. And of course the Italian loves to eat.

When asked his favorite player, Conner was quick to say Bernie Williams. The four-time World Series champion played his entire 16 year career with the New York Yankees from 1991 through 2006. Like Conner, Williams is multi-talented. The five-time MLB All-Star is also a classically trained guitarist who has released two jazz albums.

Finally, Quinn asked the famous “Deserted Island” question and Conner said he’d like to be stranded with transfer Ricky Mendiola. He told Quinn “Big Rick” would keep him warm.

We are live

Thursday saw six pitchers throw live. All six showed command of the fastball. We are going to have quite a battle for that No. 3 starter slot this year. Last season, our No. 3 starter (a combination of arms) was 1-7 in the SUNYAC. After missing last season, Steve Sturm will step back in to his role and take over for the graduated Zack Hugg to solidfy the top of the rotation.

A number of players talked about wanting becoming the third starter. One of them stepping up will be a big boost to our season. A few weeks ago, pitching coach Matt Bowman said he felt this year's staff is better than last year.

Six more throw live today. Having five catchers is nice. Last year, Sheehan and a raw Jake Nowak were all we had behind the plate.

Tuesday's W went to Quinn Danahy. Did a great job in the hit and run drill. Would have gioven it to Ben Senior, but he had to leave after his pen to get to class.

Sean Larson took the W on Wednesday. He made freshman Cody Herman stay out on defense until he got our bunt rotations down. Small thing, but we need accountability.

Thursday saw Herman take the W. I spent a good part of practice trying to get in his head, but he was rock solid. He and Weyman -- our two freshmen arms -- have shown some moxy. They carry themselves well. Both former Wayne Eagles.

Coach Greco subbed in Dunkirk on Thursday. He said he was showing the class a film on Roberto Clemente. A very intersting man. The hispanic Jackie Robinson. He overcame a lot. He was also one of Baby Colletti's hero's.

Misc.

We did our strength testing a few weeks back. Here are the results of the top four in each category:

Mile		Bench		Dips
Wolf	5:04	Lorenzo	33	Frantz	61
Johnston	5:22	Johnston	32	Lorenzo	53
Lorenzo	5:28	Carmody	32	Johnston	37
Carmody	5:32	Frantz	32	Castonguay	35

Carl Wolf and Bobby Frantz set new standards in their events.

Today's W went to Matty "Ice" Casilio. The hockey-first third baseman had a good day bunting and has strung together a few good practices.

We also had a visitor stop by the office yesterday. He goes by 'Mike'. He will be running for SUNY Mascot of the Year.

We're hoping Mike will be out to support the women's and men's basketball teams on Friday. A big game vs. Geneseo for the women. Our team will be there in the Blue practice shirts. That means Friday morning is High School Spirit Day.