Long Beach State University Athletics
Baseball Ranked No. 30 in Collegiate Baseball
12/22/2006 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
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Dirtbags No. 30 in Collegiate Baseball's Pre-Season
Poll TUCSON, AZ-- Long Beach State Baseball is yet again in the top-30 to begin the 2007 season. The program, which has reached 15 NCAA Regionals since 1989 is ranked No. 30 in Collegiate Baseball's pre-season poll released Friday. The Dirtbags return three fourths of their starting infield, led by Big West Freshman of the Year Danny Espinosa and two-time all-conference selection, and outfielder Robert Perry. Righthander Vance Worley returns to the mound after being rated as one of the top-30 prospects in the Cape Cod League this past summer, as he will team with Junior College All-American Manny McElroy to anchor the rotation. As like usual, the Dirtbags' schedule is littered with top-30 programs, including a three-game series at top-ranked Rice, three-game home series with No. 7-ranked Texas, No. 17-ranked Wichita State and No. 29-ranked Oral Roberts, two series with arch rival and No. 12-ranked CS Fullerton, and a road trip to No. 14-ranked Arizona State. The program also has a midweek affairs with No. 19-ranked Pepperdine and No. 26-ranked UCLA. Southern California, who opens the season with the Dirtbags on February 3 at Dedeaux Field, before the home opener on February 4, is ranked No. 25. Last year LBSU's schedule was rated as the toughest in the nation. Tickets for the 29-game home schedule are available starting at $120 by calling (562) 985-4949. The team's leadoff weekend, featuring Angels rookie and former Dirtbag, Jered Weaver, will kick off January 24 and run through the 26th. For information call (562) 985-4662. LBSU went 29-27 last year. PRE-SEASON TOP-40 11. Georgia Tech. (50-18) 472 8 21. Baylor (37-26) 447 26 31. Louisiana St. (35-24) 421 - |
