2003 Toledo Rockets Baseball 2003 Toledo Rockets Baseball Team Sponsors Quick Facts/Table of Contents

2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL TEAM SPONSORS QUICK FACTS/TABLE OF CONTENTS

Rocket Baseball Facts TABLE OF CONTENTS Rocket Quick Facts ...... 1 General Information 2003 Schedule ...... 2 Location ...... Toledo, OH 2003 Roster - By Position ...... 3 Founded ...... 1872 2003 Numerical Roster ...... 4 Enrollment ...... 20,313 Colors ...... Midnight Blue and Gold 2003 Toledo Outlook...... 5-7 Nickname...... Rockets Head Coach Joe Kruzel...... 8-9 Stadium (Capacity) ...... Baseball Complex at Scott Park (1,000) Assistant Coaches ...... 10 Dimensions ...... LF 330’, CF 400’, RF 330’ Meet the Rockets ...... 11-26 Conference/Affiliation ...... Mid-American/NCAA Division I 2002 Schedule & Results ...... 27 President ...... Dr. Daniel M. Johnson 2002 Offensive Statistics ...... 28 Athletic Director ...... Michael O’Brien 2002 Pitching Statistics ...... 29 Faculty Representative ...... Jim Klein, J.D. 2002 MAC Review ...... 30 Rocket Team Records ...... 31 Toledo Perrysburg Team Information Rocket Career Records (Batting) ...... 32 Head Coach ...... Joe Kruzel (Toledo ‘89) Rocket Career Records (Pitching) ...... 33 5345 Heatherdowns 120 W./S. Boundary Record at Toledo (Years) ...... 237-302 (10 years) Rocket Season Records (Batting) ...... 34 (near Reynolds) (Country Charm Plaza) Overall Record ...... Same Rocket Season Records (Pitching) ...... 35 Assistant Coach ...... Steve Parrill (Ohio State ‘88) Rocket Honors & Awards ...... 36-37 Pitching Coach ...... Junie Melendez (Toledo ‘02) Rocket All-Time Record ...... 38 861-3278 872-3000 Volunteer Coach ...... Jim Kubacki (Nebraska ‘58) Rockets Through the Years ...... 39 Baseball Office Phone ...... (419) 530-6263 UT All-Time Letterwinners ...... 40-41 Call us for lunch! Dine in or We Deliver. Baseball Secretary...... Terry Cole Rockets in the Pros ...... 42 2002 Overall Record ...... 18-34 The Mid-American Conference ...... 43 Open Everyday 11:00 AM (Sundays 12:00) 2002 MAC Record (Place) ...... 9-18 (6th - West) University/Athletic Leaders ...... 44 Free Delivery Starters Returning/Lost ...... 7/2 College Life at Toledo ...... 45-47 Letterwinners Returning/Lost ...... 18/6 Campus Facilities ...... 48 Newcomers ...... 12 Academics ...... 49 All-Time Record ...... 1,063-1,130-10 (78 years) The City of Toledo ...... 50 Team Sponsors ...... 51-52 Athletic Media Relations Information Assistant Director/Baseball Contact ...... Brian DeBenedictis (Toledo ‘98) Office Phone ...... (419) 530-4919 The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics Home Phone ...... (419) 537-7189 gratefully acknowledges the contributions of the Cell Phone ...... (419) 262-4234 UT student body, whose spirit and financial sup- E-Mail Address ...... [email protected] port enable us to maintain our standards of excel- Athletic Media Relations Fax ...... (419) 530-4930 lence. Press Box Phone ...... (419) 530-3089 The University of Toledo is committed to a Official Athletic Website ...... www.utrockets.com policy of equal opportunity in education, employ- ment, membership and contracts, and no differen- tiation will be made based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, veteran status or the presence of a disability. The Uni- Finding Scott Park versity will take affirmative action as required by federal or state law. From Campus: Take Stadium Drive to Oakwood; turn left onto Oakwood; turn right onto Douglas; take left on Dorr; turn right on Parkside; go past Nebraska; Scott Park on right. Credits From I-75: Take I-475 west; exit at Douglas Road; turn left, crossing Monroe, Central and Editor: Brian DeBenedictis Kenwood; take left on Dorr; turn right on Parkside; go past Nebraska; Scott Park on right. Contributors: Steve Easton, Paul Helgren, Jason Payne, Kris Barnswell, Colleen Idzcak, Michael From US-23: Take I-475 east; exit at Secor; turn right; take left on Dorr; turn right on Parkside; go past Nebraska; Scott Park on right. Ong Photography: Bill Hartough, Terry Fell, UT From the Ohio Turnpike: Take Exit 4; Reynolds Rd. north to Central; turn right on Central to photographers, along with Head Coach Joe Kruzel Douglas; turn right on Douglas; turn right; take left on Dorr; turn right on Parkside; go past Published by: University of Toledo Athletic Media Nebraska; Scott Park on right. Relations Office using Adobe Pagemaker 6.5 Printing: Hecks Printing, Toledo, OH www.utrockets.com

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Untitled-1 1 3/20/03, 11:43 AM 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 ROCKET BASEBALL SCHEDULE TEAM SPONSORS Day Date Opponent Location Time Fri. Feb. 28 at Cincinnati Cincinnati, OH 3:00 p.m. Sat. Mar. 1 at Cincinnati Cincinnati, OH 1:00 p.m. Sun. Mar. 2 at Cincinnati Cincinnati, OH 1:00 p.m. Thurs. Mar. 6 at Dayton Dayton, OH 2:00 p.m. Fri. Mar. 7 at Morehead State (DH) Morehead, KY 1:00 p.m. Sat. Mar. 8 at Morehead State Morehead, KY 1:00 p.m. Mon. Mar. 10 at Rollins# Orlando, FL 7:00 p.m. Tues. Mar. 11 vs. Georgetown# Orlando, FL 1:00 p.m. Tues. Mar. 11 at Central Florida# Orlando, FL 7:00 p.m. Wed. Mar. 12 at Rollins# Orlando, FL 7:00 p.m. Thurs. Mar. 13 vs. Georgetown# Orlando, FL 1:00 p.m. Fri. Mar. 14 vs. Evansville# Orlando, FL 1:00 p.m. Sat. Mar. 15 vs. Evansville# Orlando, FL Noon Wed. Mar. 19 at IPFW Fort Wayne, IN 2:00 p.m. Fri. Mar. 21 WAYNE STATE SCOTT PARK 2:00 p.m. Sat. Mar. 22 OAKLAND SCOTT PARK 1:00 p.m. Sun. Mar. 23 TIFFIN SCOTT PARK 2:00 p.m. Tues. Mar. 25 at Notre Dame Notre Dame, IN 5:00 p.m. Wed. Mar. 26 BETHEL SCOTT PARK 2:00 p.m. Fri. Mar. 28 at Northern Illinois* DeKalb, IL 3:00 p.m. Sat. Mar. 29 at Northern Illinois* (DH) DeKalb, IL 1:00 p.m. Sun. Mar. 30 at Northern Illinois* DeKalb, IL 1:00 p.m. Tues. Apr. 1 DEFIANCE SCOTT PARK 3:00 p.m. Wed. Apr. 2 ADRIAN SCOTT PARK 2:00 p.m. Fri. Apr. 4 SIENA HEIGHTS SCOTT PARK 3:00 p.m. Tues. Apr. 8 at Oakland Rochester, MI 3:00 p.m. Wed. Apr. 9 at Cleveland State Cleveland, OH 3:00 p.m. Fri. Apr. 11 at Kent State* Kent, OH 3:00 p.m. Sat. Apr. 12 at Kent State* (DH) Kent, OH 1:00 p.m. Sun. Apr. 13 at Kent State* Kent, OH 1:00 p.m. Tues. Apr. 15 DAYTON SCOTT PARK 3:00 p.m. Fri. Apr. 18 CENTRAL MICHIGAN* SCOTT PARK 3:00 p.m. Sat. Apr. 19 CENTRAL MICHIGAN* (DH) SCOTT PARK 1:00 p.m. Sun. Apr. 20 CENTRAL MICHIGAN* SCOTT PARK 2:00 p.m. Tues. Apr. 22 IPFW SCOTT PARK 3:00 p.m. Wed. Apr. 23 at Youngstown State Youngstown, OH 3:00 p.m. Fri. Apr. 25 at Eastern Michigan* Ypsilanti, MI 6:00 p.m. Sat. Apr. 26 at Eastern Michigan* (DH) Ypsilanti, MI 4:00 p.m. Sun. Apr. 27 at Eastern Michigan* Ypsilanti, MI 1:00 p.m. Tues. Apr. 29 HILLSDALE SCOTT PARK 4:00 p.m. Wed. Apr. 30 CLEVELAND STATE SCOTT PARK 3:00 p.m. Fri. May 2 BALL STATE* SCOTT PARK 3:00 p.m. Sat. May 3 BALL STATE* (DH) SCOTT PARK 1:00 p.m. Sun. May 4 BALL STATE* SCOTT PARK 2:00 p.m. Fri. May 9 OHIO* SCOTT PARK 3:00 p.m. Sat. May 10 OHIO* (DH) SCOTT PARK 1:00 p.m. Sun. May 11 OHIO* SCOTT PARK 2:00 p.m. Wed. May 14 YOUNGSTOWN STATE SCOTT PARK 3:00 p.m. Fri. May 16 BOWLING GREEN* SCOTT PARK 3:00 p.m. Sat. May 17 at Bowling Green* (DH) Bowling Green, OH 1:00 p.m. Sun. May 18 BOWLING GREEN*@ FIFTH THIRD FIELD 2:00 p.m. Wed.-Sat. May 21-24 MAC Tournament TBA

All times listed are site times; Schedule is subject to change Home games in CAPS * Mid-American Conference Game # Rollins College Tournament (Orlando, FL) @ Fifth Third Field (Toledo, OH)

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Untitled-1 2 3/20/03, 11:44 AM 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL CITY OF TOLEDO 2003 ROCKET ROSTER - BY POSITION Pitchers No. Name B/T Ht. Wt. Class Birthdate Hometown - High School (Transfer) 2 Ryan Valek L/L 6-0 170 So. 8/2/83 North Royalton, OH - North Royalton 7 Ben Lovell R/R 6-3 185 So. 4/28/83 Monroe, MI - Monroe 11 Michael Wagner R/R 6-1 180 Fr. 4/16/84 Cincinnati, OH - Madeira 14 Derek Overcashier R/R 6-0 160 Sr. 3/20/81 Toledo, OH - Springfield 18 Todd Thomas R/R 6-5 200 So. 1/31/83 Swanton, OH - St. John’s 19 Raul Lopez R/R 6-2 195 Jr. 3/7/82 Lorain, OH - Admiral King 21 Nick Szczur L/R 6-4 220 Jr. 8/6/82 Toledo, OH - Central Catholic 25 Kurt Woeste R/R 6-3 190 So. 1/22/82 St. Henry, OH - St. Henry 26 Travis Pilewski L/L 6-3 230 Fr. 4/18/83 Toledo, OH - St. John’s 27 Ian Baltzer R/L 6-4 215 Sr. 2/29/80 Xenia, OH - Beavercreek 28 J.R. Duffey R/R 6-7 195 So. 7/16/82 Columbus, OH - Bexley 31 Jeff Brandt R/R 6-3 225 Fr. 10/20/83 Cincinnati, OH - Moeller 36 Josh Keipper R/R 6-3 180 Fr. 6/11/84 Cincinnati, OH - Anderson 38 Mitch Hayes R/R 6-4 230 So. 11/13/81 Cincinnati, OH - Reading 40 Matt Harris (C) R/R 6-1 170 Sr. 8/16/80 Toledo, OH - Whitmer 41 Brian Kovacs L/L 6-7 235 Sr. 9/5/80 Newport, MI - Riverview (Macomb CC) 45 Adam Hahn R/R 6-3 185 Fr. (R) 4/29/83 Ottawa Lake, MI - Whiteford Agricultural 46 Mark Schutt L/L 6-3 245 Fr. 12/14/83 Lambertville, MI - Bedford Catchers No. Name B/T Ht. Wt. Class Birthdate Hometown - High School (Transfer) 12 Mitch Maier (C) L/R 6-2 200 Jr. 6/30/82 Novi, MI - Novi 34 Dan Ruth L/R 6-2 215 So. 11/10/81 Galion, OH - Galion 39 Nick Lance R/R 5-8 183 Fr. (R) 8/25/83 Fremont, OH - Fremont Ross Infielders No. Name B/T Ht. Wt. Class Birthdate Hometown - High School (Transfer) 4 Matt Ruth R/R 5-10 185 So. 3/14/83 Galion, OH - Galion 6 Nate Sodders R/R 6-0 173 So. 8/21/82 Lima, OH - Shawnee 8 Chris Arvay R/R 6-1 180 Jr. 6/19/82 Toledo, OH - Start 9 Taylor Eckel (C) L/R 5-9 175 Sr. 10/10/80 Toledo, OH - Start 15 Ryan Laude R/R 6-0 185 Fr. 12/13/83 Highland, IN - Andrean 16 Dan Stong L/R 5-11 180 Fr. 2/13/83 Lyons, OH - Evergreen 23 Travis Boley R/R 6-4 220 So. 5/29/82 Celina, OH - Celina 30 Phil Pilewski (C) L/L 6-3 225 Sr. 9/26/80 Perrysburg, OH - Perrysburg 35 Doug Yoder L/R 6-3 235 Jr. 1/12/82 North Canton, OH - Hoover (Walsh) 37 Shawn Hurst R/R 6-2 195 Jr. 11/15/80 Bryan, OH - Bryan Outfielders No. Name B/T Ht. Wt. Class Birthdate Hometown - High School (Transfer) 1 Aaron Rouser L/R 5-10 190 Jr. 6/24/80 Fostoria, OH - St. Wendelin (Tiffin) 5 J.D. Foust R/R 6-4 200 Sr. 5/7/81 Norwood, OH - Norwood 17 Justin Wolfe R/R 5-10 170 Fr. 7/9/84 Brookville, IN - Franklin County 22 Jarrod Resendez R/R 6-1 195 Jr. 4/5/82 Northwood, OH - St. Francis De Sales 24 Sean Dobson R/R 5-9 185 Jr. 7/24/82 Eastpointe, MI - Warren De LaSalle 33 Jay Juras (C) R/R 6-1 185 Sr. 7/8/80 Broadview, OH - North Royalton 42 Phil Masser R/R 5-10 170 Fr. 12/6/83 Allen Park, MI - Allen Park

(C) - Captains Coaches Head Coach: No. 13 Joe Kruzel (11th Season, Toledo ‘89) Assistant Coach: No. 10 Steve Parrill (10th Season, Ohio State ‘88) Pitching Coach: No. 32 Junie Melendez (First Season, Toledo ‘02) Volunteer Coach: No. 20 Jim Kubacki (Fourth Season, Nebraska ‘58)

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Untitled-1 3 3/20/03, 11:44 AM 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 ROCKET NUMERICAL ROSTER ACADEMICS No. Name Pos. B/T Ht. Wt. Cl. Birthdate Hometown - High School (Transfer) Academic support for University of Toledo student-athletes 1 Aaron Rouser OF L/R 5-10 190 Jr. 6/24/80 Fostoria, OH - St. Wendelin (Tiffin) comes from the Rocket T.E.A.M.1 (Together Everyone Achieves 2 Ryan Valek LHP L/L 6-0 170 So. 8/2/83 North Royalton, OH - North Royalton More) Academic Center. The Rocket T.E.A.M.1 Academic Center 4 Matt Ruth INF R/R 5-10 185 So. 3/14/83 Galion, OH - Galion provides a variety of services to student-athletes, including 5 J.D. Foust OF/INF R/R 6-4 200 Sr. 5/7/81 Norwood, OH - Norwood assistance with class schedules, a time management program 6 Nate Sodders INF R/R 6-0 173 So. 8/21/82 Lima, OH - Shawnee (targeting), study table, individual and group tutoring, and 18 7 Ben Lovell RHP R/R 6-3 185 So. 4/28/83 Monroe, MI - Monroe computers that are on-line with the Internet, the UT library 8 Chris Arvay INF R/R 6-1 180 Jr. 6/19/82 Toledo, OH - Start 9 Taylor Eckel (C) INF L/R 5-9 175 Sr. 10/10/80 Toledo, OH - Start system and Microsoft programs. 11 Michael Wagner RHP R/R 6-1 180 Fr. 4/16/84 Cincinnati, OH - Madeira The student-athlete at the University of Toledo has two 12 Mitch Maier (C) C L/R 6-2 200 Jr. 6/30/82 Novi, MI - Novi advisors: a major advisor and an athletic academic advisor. Both 14 Derek Overcashier RHP R/R 6-0 160 Sr. 3/20/81 Toledo, OH - Springfield advisors work together to assist the student-athlete with course 15 Ryan Laude INF R/R 6-0 185 Fr. 12/13/83 Highland, IN - Andrean schedules. Academic and athletic schedules have to work to- 16 Dan Stong INF L/R 5-11 180 Fr. 2/13/83 Lyons, OH - Evergreen gether so the student-athlete can be successful as a Division I 17 Justin Wolfe OF R/R 5-10 170 Fr. 7/9/84 Brookville, IN - Franklin County student-athlete. The Rocket T.E.A.M.1 Academic Center staff 18 Todd Thomas P R/R 6-5 200 So. 1/31/83 Swanton, OH - St. John’s keeps files on all student-athletes to monitor eligibility and to 19 Raul Lopez RHP R/R 6-2 195 Jr. 3/7/82 Lorain, OH - Admiral King track for graduation. All tracking information (i.e. targeting, 21 Nick Szczur RHP L/R 6-4 220 Jr. 8/6/82 Toledo, OH - Central Catholic tutoring, grade checks, eligibilty and graduation requirements) 22 Jarrod Resendez OF R/R 6-1 195 Jr. 4/5/82 Northwood, OH - St. Francis De Sales are kept on file and updated regularly. Structure and organization 23 Travis Boley INF R/R 6-4 220 So. 5/29/82 Celina, OH - Celina are the key to assisting student-athletes in academic success. 24 Sean Dobson OF R/R 5-9 185 Jr. 7/24/82 Eastpointe, MI - Warren De LaSalle The Rocket T.E.A.M.1 Academic Center is located in the Larimer 25 Kurt Woeste RHP R/R 6-3 190 So. 1/22/82 St. Henry, OH - St. Henry Athletic Complex. The Academic Wall of Fame (above) honors the 26 Travis Pilewski LHP L/L 6-3 230 Fr. 4/18/83 Toledo, OH - St. John’s The Rocket T.E.A.M.1 Academic Center student-athlete with the top grade point average from each team. 27 Ian Baltzer LHP R/L 6-4 215 Sr. 2/29/80 Xenia, OH - Beavercreek The Rocket T.E.A.M.1 Academic Center, located in the Larimer 28 J.R. Duffey RHP R/R 6-7 195 So. 7/16/82 Columbus, OH - Bexley Athletic Complex, is the place for student-athletes to study, to meet Targeting Program 30 Phil Pilewski (C) INF/LHP L/L 6-3 225 Sr. 9/26/80 Perrysburg, OH - Perrysburg tutors and to work in the computer lab. The number of required study The targeting program is a time management and organiza- 31 Jeff Brandt RHP R/R 6-3 225 Fr. 10/20/83 Cincinnati, OH - Moeller hours each week is determined by the student-athlete’s cumulative tional program designed for freshmen, first-year transfers and 33 Jay Juras (C) OF R/R 6-1 185 Sr. 7/8/80 Broadview, OH - North Royalton GPA. All required study time is done in the monitored study center. returning “at-risk” student-athletes (below 2.3 cumulative GPA). 34 Dan Ruth C L/R 6-2 215 So. 11/10/81 Galion, OH - Galion The study center is open Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. 35 Doug Yoder INF L/R 6-3 235 Jr. 1/12/82 North Canton, OH - Hoover (Walsh) The students meet for 30 minutes every week with an assigned and Sunday 5:00-9:00 p.m. 36 Josh Keipper RHP R/R 6-3 180 Fr. 6/11/84 Cincinnati, OH - Anderson targeter to discuss pertinent academic issues and upcoming 37 Shawn Hurst INF/P R/R 6-2 195 Jr. 11/15/80 Bryan, OH - Bryan The computer lab is open the same hours as the study center assignments, exams and papers. The goal of this program is to 38 Mitch Hayes RHP R/R 6-4 230 So. 11/13/81 Cincinnati, OH - Reading and the computers are equipped with Netscape, Microsoft Word teach time-management skills and to keep the student-athlete 39 Nick Lance C R/R 5-8 183 Fr. (R) 8/25/83 Fremont, OH - Fremont Ross and Excel, and are online with the library system for any research organized. 40 Matt Harris (C) RHP R/R 6-1 170 Sr. 8/16/80 Toledo, OH - Whitmer need. Other computer labs are located all over campus and some 41 Brian Kovacs LHP L/L 6-7 235 Sr. 9/5/80 Newport, MI - Riverview (Macomb CC) are open 24 hours a day. The Rocket T.E.A.M.1 Academic Center Tutoring 42 Phil Masser OF R/R 5-10 170 Fr. 12/6/83 Allen Park, MI - Allen Park also has three laptops to be checked out for team travel. All Tutoring is available to all student-athletes through a part- 45 Adam Hahn RHP R/R 6-3 185 Fr. (R) 4/29/83 Ottawa Lake, MI - Whiteford Agricultural services are to help the student-athlete be well-equipped for nership with the Rocket T.E.A.M.1 Academic Center and the 46 Mark Schutt LHP L/L 6-3 245 Fr. 12/14/83 Lambertville, MI - Bedford academic success at UT. Learning Enhancement Center on campus. Both individual and (C) - Captains group tutoring are available and paid for by the Athletic Depart- ment. Tutors are available during the week in the Rocket T.E.A.M.1 ROCKETS BY CLASS ROCKETS BY STATE Academic Center. Tutors are also available at Learning Enhance- ment Center locations at Carlson Library and Scott Park Campus. MICHIGAN (7) SENIORS (8) Jarrod Resendez, OF FRESHMEN (11) OHIO (29) Phil Pilewski, INF Sean Dobson, OF Ian Baltzer, P Aaron Rouser, OF Jeff Brandt, P Chris Arvay, INF Travis Pilewski, P Adam Hahn, P Taylor Eckel, INF Nick Szczur, P Adam Hahn, P Ian Baltzer, P Jarrod Resendez, OF Baseball Posts 2.91 Team GPA For 2002 Fall Semester Brian Kovacs, P J.D. Foust, OF Doug Yoder, INF Josh Keipper, P Travis Boley, INF Aaron Rouser, OF Ben Lovell, P Since Head Coach Joe Kruzel’s arrival prior to the 1993 season, the Rockets’ academic performance has shown considerable Matt Harris, P Phil Masser, OF Jeff Brandt, P Dan Ruth, C Mitch Maier, C improvement. In the Fall 2002 semester, the baseball team registered a 2.91 GPA - the top GPA registered by the baseball program in Jay Juras, OF SOPHOMORES (10) Nick Lance, C Taylor Eckel, INF Matt Ruth, INF Phil Masser, OF its 78-year history. Seventeen of the 34 returning student-athletes had over a 3.0 cumulative GPA. Brian Kovacs, P Travis Boley, INF Ryan Laude, INF J.D. Foust, OF Nate Sodders, INF Mark Schutt, P Overall in the 2002 fall semester nearly 47 percent (177 of 379) of UT student-athletes achieved a 3.0 GPA or better for the 2002 Travis Pilewski, P Matt Harris, P Dan Stong, INF Derek Overcashier, P J.R. Duffey, P fall semester. Phil Pilewski, INF Mitch Hayes, P Mark Schutt, P J.R. Duffey, P Nick Szczur, P INDIANA (2) Ben Lovell, P Dan Stong, INF Mitch Hayes, P Todd Thomas, P UT Athletic Director Michael O'Brien also announced that 10 of UT's 17 sport programs had team GPA's of 3.0 or above. Individu- Ryan Laude, INF JUNIORS (9) Dan Ruth, C Michael Wagner, P Shawn Hurst, INF/P Ryan Valek, P ally, 13 student-athletes earned perfect 4.0 GPAs this past fall. Collectively, UT's 379 student-athletes earned a 2.851 GPA. Justin Wolfe, OF Chris Arvay, INF Matt Ruth, INF Justin Wolfe, OF Jay Juras, OF Michael Wagner, P "We are proud of our student-athletes' academic achievements in the fall semester," O'Brien said. "To have almost half of our Sean Dobson, OF Nate Sodders, INF Josh Keipper, P Kurt Woeste, P student-athletes earn above a 3.0 grade point average is a great accomplishment. It shows that education is valued very highly at UT." Shawn Hurst, INF/P Todd Thomas, P Nick Lance, C Doug Yoder, INF Women's cross country posted the highest team GPA (3.454), followed by women's soccer (3.428), women's tennis (3.324), Raul Lopez, P Ryan Valek, P Raul Lopez, P women's golf (3.316), women's basketball (3.274), women's volleyball (3.269), men's tennis (3.204), men's golf (3.168), women's Mitch Maier, C Kurt Woeste, P Derek Overcashier, P swimming (3.167) and softball (3.098).

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Untitled-1 4 3/20/03, 11:44 AM 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL CAMPUS FACILITIES 2003 SEASON OUTLOOK

Sports Medicine Strength & Conditioning Toledo Looks to Improve in 2003 Through Hard Work and Dedication The main objective of the sports medicine staff is the prevention of injury. Rockets return 23 letterwinners, including eight position starters and 11 pitchers Steps are taken in UT's program to become knowledgeable of the weak points of every athlete. When injuries do occur, however, the UT staff and its resources Veteran Toledo Head Coach Joe Kruzel acknowledged. “We’ve got to advance base relief roles will be lively.” are ready to get an athlete back into action as soon as possible. will ask an experienced group of position runners. We’ve got to hit better in certain The pitching rotation forecast starts The Rocket training staff players to shoulder much of the load dur- situations. And we definitely have to cut with sophomore J.R. Duffey (Columbus, is made up of specialists in ing the early part of down on our OH), who won three of his seven decisions prevention techniques, the 2003 baseball strikeouts and force in 2002 and will be Toledo’s strongest can- whether it be the normal rou- schedule. the other teams to didate for the No. 1 starter role. The 6-7, tine of taping ankles and ad- “Our older posi- make plays. We have 195-pound righthander showed in his ministering knee braces, to tion players bring a to manufacture a few rookie campaign that he is more than ca- Athletic succcess at Toledo begins long before more specialized methods such wealth of experience runs here and there, pable of producing in big games, with com- the athletes step onto the fields of competition. as rehabilitating shoulder in- and that should pay which we weren’t very plete game performances vs. MAC Tourna- juries and alleviating chronic It starts with a strength and conditioning pro- off as our young successful at last ment participants Bowling Green and Cen- back problems. The staff is gram. pitching staff settles year.” tral Michigan. Boasting a lively fastball and trained to provide quick, ac- At UT, there is a commitment to building the into place,” com- The 2003 edition a good curve ball, Duffey’s clever approach curate evaluations and exper- total body structure - strength, speed, condition- mented Kruzel. “We of Toledo baseball will to pitching will help make him a natural tise for treatment with the ing and flexibility - with the lowest risk of in- also have an out- be much improved fit for a top starting role. aid of excellent facilities and jury. standing recruiting from last season. The Fellow sophomore Todd Thomas resources. While the sports Athletes train under specially tailored pro- class that should Rockets should also (Swanton, OH) will also be relied on to medicine staff tries to return student-athletes to the playing field quickly, they grams that help them stay in top condition all- give us the talent find the schedule improve the pitching stability in 2003. A do so only once they are convinced there is no further risk of injury. year round. Each athlete receives special atten- and depth that all friendlier than a year fearless competitor, Thomas battled hard Injured student-athletes return to participation only when they are able to tion with specific regimens set up to meet his or good teams need to ago, thanks to 25 luck as a freshman, winning only one of function on the field of play. The ability to function on the court or on the field her needs in order to get peak results. have.” home games. Kruzel five decisions. Kruzel believes he has ben- or in the pool is the basis of all the rehabilitation done in the Larimer and Savage The strength and conditioning coordinator As he looks at sums up the upcom- efited from his experience last season and Hall training rooms. There are various pieces of equipment and tools found there works with all UT's athletic teams in the strength to accomplish this. The equipment attempts to simulate the same type of stress and conditioning center located in the Larimer the position players, ing season, “Our goals expects him to be a key contributor in 2003. that is encountered while participating in a sport. Athletic Complex which is adjacent to the Glass Kruzel is excited Junior Mitch Maier currently ranks first all- are simple. Practice “Todd has developed into an effective Bowl. The Larimer Athletic Complex has an ex- about the prospects time in Toledo history with a .396 career bat- hard, play hard and pitcher,” Kruzel says. “He throws strikes Student Housing tensive weight system that promotes total for the season. His ting average. compete for a MAC and knows how to pitch. He’s very com- strength and fitness and is among the most com- feelings are based, Championship.” petitive on the mound, and may also see prehensive weight training facilities in the na- not just on the returning and incoming time in the infield tion. players, but also on the amount of work Here is a look at and outfield or as a The Larimer Athletic Complex has an exten- the team did in the offseason to get bet- the Rockets by posi- designated hitter. sive weight system that promotes total strength ter. tion: Todd is a very versa- and fitness. It is among the most comprehensive The Rockets return 23 letterwinners, tile athlete.” weight training facilities in the nation. Through including eight position starters and 11 Senior Brian the purchase of $5,000 of new equipment each pitchers from last year’s squad. Toledo was THE PITCHERS Kovacs (Newport, year, as provided by the Varsity 'T' Club, it also good enough at times in 2002 to compete Kruzel and first- MI) could be one of remains among the most up to date. against the elite teams in the Mid-Ameri- year pitching coach UT’s top four start- A list of the weights and machines in the LAC can Conference. Unfortunately for the Junie Melendez wel- ers if he can become strength room: Rockets, many of the brightest moments come seven new faces more consistent. A There are several outstanding resi- were overshadowed by a disappointing 18- to an 18-man pitch- talented left- dence halls on campus, two of which Hammer (25 pieces) 34 overall record. ing staff. “We have hander, Kovacs has house several members of the University Nautilus (11 pieces) “There isn’t a person in our program many new guys who been able to get of Toledo’s baseball team. The 400-unit 5 flat benches that is the least bit happy about how our have been successful strikeouts in tense International House (above) is located on 2 incline benches season went a year ago,” declared Kruzel. in the past,” com- late-game situa- Campus Road adjacent to a 6.3-mile bike 2 squat racks “We all have dedicated more time to im- mented Melendez. tions. He struck out trail. Parks Tower (right), a 16-story com- 1 AMF hip sled proving the skills of the players. When they “The new guys will a career-high 10 plex with capacity for over 700 students, 12,500 pounds of free weight see themselves improving, their confidence upgrade not only the batters in six in- sits directly behind the Glass Bowl. 2 stair masters is raised. That is where we are today — quality of the staff, nings of scoreless 1 aerodyne bicycle better skilled and more confident. but the depth as well. Sophomore J.R. Duffey could emerge as the work against Oak- Compaq computers system “In order to improve offensively, we’ve The competition for No. 1 starter, after an impressive debut sea- land last season. got to do a lot of the little things,” Kruzel the starting spots and son in 2002. Kovacs appeared in 48 2003 Toledo Baseball Media Guide 2003 Toledo Baseball Media Guide 5

Untitled-1 5 3/20/03, 11:44 AM 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 SEASON OUTLOOK COLLEGE LIFE AT TOLEDO

13 games during his first collegiate season Derek Overcashier (Toledo, OH). All five hitter are sophomore Travis Boley (Celina, at Toledo last year, making seven starts, are talented and have an opportunity to play OH), junior transfer Doug Yoder (North and can dominate a game when he has com- major roles in the team’s success in 2003. Canton, OH - Walsh) and Travis Pilewski. mand of his pitches. Junior Nick Szczur (Toledo, OH), a two- Across the diamond at third base is a Another potential starter may be jun- year starter, as well as freshmen Jeff Brandt spirited battle for playing time between ior Shawn Hurst (Bryan, OH) and/or (Cincinnati, OH) and Josh Keipper (Cin- Shawn Hurst and freshman Dan Stong sophomore Ben Lovell (Monroe, MI). cinnati, OH), are each slated to miss the (Lyons, OH). Hurst appeared in 13 games Hurst made 14 relief appearances last sea- 2003 season after undergoing off-season sur- last season, splitting time between desig- son, in addition to gery. nated hitter, third base and pitcher. He has posting a pair of the ability to be a productive hitter who starts. He tied for THE INFIELD will provide some power to a lineup look- the team lead with The Rockets look ing to score runs. three saves and has to be solid in the in- Senior Taylor Eckel (Toledo, OH) and the versatility to be field in 2003. Senior junior Chris Arvay (Toledo, OH) form one used in the co-captain Phil of the best middle infield tandems in school “swingman” role, as Pilewski history. The duo was instrumental in the a top middle reliever (Perrysburg, OH) is Rockets turning 103 double plays over the and spot starter. coming off successful past two seasons, including a school-record Lovell has good ve- shoulder surgery and 58 in 2002. The Student Rec Center locity and has the will anchor the infield “Arvay and Eckel work extremely well ability to locate at first base. Pilewski together,” Kruzel said. “They have played The 151,000 square-foot Student Recreation pitches. He gained gives Toledo left- side-by-side for so long it is as if they are Center provides UT students with one of the finest valuable experience handed power in the one. They always seem to know what the in 2002, when he middle of the lineup other is thinking.” university recreational facilities in the country. worked 31.1 in- and a solid glove at Eckel, a co-captain and a 2002 second- The $17.3 million masterpiece, which opened in nings, posting a 2-2 first. Pilewski en- team All-MAC second basemen had an im- 1990, has been recognized as one of the top 13 record. dured a junior season pressive .970 fielding percentage last sea- facilities in the nation by the National Intramu- After emerging Senior Phil Pilewski will lead a veteran To- that was hampered by son. He carried a .361 batting average and ral-Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA). The as Toledo’s closer in was first on the team in sacrifice bunts (14) ledo lineup into the 2003 season, with the pain in his shoulder. Rec Center contains three pools, a water slide, bas- 2002, senior co-cap- Rockets set to return their top five hitters. After hitting .433 and and second in runs scored (41) and multi- tain Matt Harris ranking third in the hit games (24). Arvay, whose .954 fielding ketball courts, racquetball/handball courts, vol- (Toledo, OH) could be utilized as a middle MAC and 10th in the percentage in 2002 leyball courts, machine and free weights, a 300- reliever or a closer. He has the versatility nation in batting as a was one of the best meter running track, aerobics and martial arts ar- and fearlessness to log several strong in- sophomore, he hit just for a Rocket short- eas, outdoor sand volleyball courts, games tables, nings or to come in and get the timely out. .256 as a junior. stop in Kruzel’s 10 a golf simulator and a movie theater. Several other pitchers could again seasons, batted .246 “Phil is such a In addition to intramural sports, UT offers sev- make valuable contributions in 2003, in- terrific competitor with three home cluding senior Ian Baltzer (Xenia, OH), and always has tried runs and 26 RBI. eral intercollegiate sports clubs for challenging junior Raul Lopez (Lorain, OH), as well to make this program The Rockets will competition, including skiing, fencing, karate, la- as sophomores Mitch Hayes (Cincinnati, the best it can be,” call on sophomores crosse, soccer and ice hockey. OH), Kurt Woeste (St. Henry) and Ryan Kruzel said. “He’s had Matt Ruth (Galion, Valek (North Royalton, OH). Baltzer and big series for us in OH) and Nate Hayes are both coming off elbow surgery MAC play and is an Sodders (Lima, that caused them to miss the entire 2002 important part of the OH), as well as season. lineup as one of those freshman Ryan A group of newcomers is also expected lefthanded bats. Now Laude (Lyons, OH) to challenge the Rockets’ established pitch- that he’s healthy, it to provide depth at ers for some starting time and will likely looks like Phil could second base and form the heart of UT’s middle relief corps. be on pace for the shortstop. This group includes freshmen Travis best season of his ca- Pilewski (Toledo, OH), Michael Wagner reer.” (Cincinnati, OH), Adam Hahn Other candidates Senior Jay Juras returns for his fifth year, af- (Whiteford, MI) and Mark Schutt to see action at first ter being granted a medical redshirt by the (Bedford, MI), as well as senior newcomer base or at designated NCAA in 2002. 6 2003 Toledo Baseball Media Guide 2003 Toledo Baseball Media Guide 47

Untitled-1 6 3/20/03, 11:44 AM 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL COLLEGE LIFE AT TOLEDO 2003 SEASON OUTLOOK THE OUTFIELD in home runs (6). Rouser appeared in 30 fering a broken bone in his left hand while Junior Sean Dobson contests, including 14 starts, batting .255 swinging the bat in early March. He was (Eastpointe, MI) will anchor the outfield in his first season in a Rocket uniform. He hitting a team-best .556 (5-for-9) when in centerfield after having a breakout 2002 made a strong showing in fall practice, the injury occurred. A two-year starter for season. An unlikely hero last season, Dob- diplaying outstanding bat speed and a hard- UT with a .319 career average and a 2003 son did not play much as a freshman and nosed attitude, which could get him more co-captain, Juras has worked extremely was a role player on the Rockets’ bench in plate appearances in 2003. hard over the past year to get prepared the early part of last season. He finished In left field, Coach Kruzel will have for this season. sixth in the MAC and tops for UT in hit- strong-armed seniors J.D. Foust (Norwood, “Jay is in the best shape of his life,” ting, sporting a .387 overall average, in- OH) and Jay Juras (Broadview, OH). A Kruzel said. “He is swinging the bat pain free cluding .400 in conference play. He three-year starter for the Midnight Blue and and is covering a lot of ground in left field.” pounded out 74 hits, tying teammate Phil Gold, Foust gives UT a lot of flexibility as Freshmen Justin Wolfe (Brookville, Pilewski for second-most hits in school his- he can play as many as seven positions, and IN) and Phil Masser (Allen Park, MI) tory. One of three UT players named to may be even called upon to pitch some this could also see some playing time in the 2002 Great Lakes Summer League All-Star season. A starter in 49 games last season outfield depending on their progress and Game, Dobson also finished last year sixth at third base, centerfield and left field, Foust the success of the other players right now in the MAC in stolen bases (17). .304 hit with 10 home runs and 40 RBI. infront of them. In right field, Coach Kruzel will have Known for having power to all fields, Foust “The best situation for both Justin and juniors Jarrod Resendez (Toledo, OH) and hit a career-best three home runs with five Phil would be to redshirt this season and Aaron Rouser (Fostoria, OH). RBI at arch-rival Bowling Green. utilize all four years starting next season,” Points of Pride Resendez made 37 starts in right field Juras, a fifth-year senior who was Kruzel said. “But if we need them to win, last season, batting. 231. He was first on granted a medical redshirt by the NCAA in we will use them right away.” the team in hit by pitches (10) and third 2002, missed the final 49 games after suf- • The University of Toledo is recognized as a major force in CATCHING contributing to the discovery of new technology and knowledge. Catching will be the deepest position Since 1996, the University of Toledo has been issued 36 patents, Preseason Depth Chart for the Rockets. Two-time first-team All- bringing the total to 86 — only Ohio State University, University Center Field: MAC selection and 2002 second-team All- of Akron and University of Cincinnati have more patents in the Left Field: Sean Dobson Right Field: Mideast Region honoree Mitch Maier state. Jay Juras Phil Masser Jarrod Resendez (Novi, MI) will again start for the Mid- • UT’s Honors Program is one of the oldest programs of its J.D. Foust Justin Wolfe Aaron Rouser night Blue and Gold. Maier, who currently kind at a major university. With an emphasis on undergraduate ranks first all-time in school history with research opportunities, the Honors Program has sent a delegation a .396 career batting average, set Toledo to the National Conference on Undergraduate Research every year Shortstop: Second Base: records for hits (80) and total bases (142) since 1992. Chris Arvay Taylor Eckel last year. The 2003 co-captain also ranked • UT’s students regularly win prestigious national fellow- Nate Sodders Matt Ruth in the MAC’s Top 20 in seven categories, Ryan Laude ships, including the Fulbright, the Woodrow Wilson, the National Starters: Relievers: including tied for fifth in hits, seventh in Science Foundation Graduate Fellowship, the National Consortium J.R. Duffey Ian Baltzer total bases and eighth in home runs (14). for the Physical Sciences, the Whitaker Foundation, the Goldwater, Shawn Hurst Jeff Brandt “Mitch is a fiery competitor, both of- the Madison Foundation Fellowship, and the Phi Kappa Phi Na- Brian Kovacs Adam Hahn fensively and defensively,” Kruzel said. “He Ben Lovell Matt Harris tional Fellowship. is a versatile all-around hitter who has bat- Raul Lopez Mitch Hayes • The University is listed in the most recent edition of the ted leadoff, second, third and cleanup with Todd Thomas Josh Keipper equal efficiency. Mitch has a rare combi- "100 Best Colleges for African-American Students." Derek Overcashier Third Base: First Base: nation in a catcher in power and speed, • For three consecutive years, UT has been named one of Travis Pilewski Shawn Hurst Phil Pilewski and he hits effectively with power to all "America's most wired colleges" by Yahoo! Internet Life maga- Dan Stong Michael Wagner Travis Boley fields.” zine. Mark Schutt Travis Pilewski Kruzel looks for sophomore Dan Ruth • Centennial Mall is one of the "100 most beautifully land- Kurt Woeste Ryan Valek (Galion, OH) and redshirt freshman Nick scaped places in the country," according to the American Society Lance (Fremont, OH) to fill in behind the of Landscape Architects. Only 22 college campuses are on the list. plate. Ruth, who made 21 starts at desig- • The $33 million Wolfe Hall, which opened in 1998, offers Catcher: nated hitter in 2002, batted .312 with six one of the most advanced science facilities of its kind in the na- Mitch Maier home runs and 26 RBI. He was second on tion for pharmacy, chemistry and life sciences. Dan Ruth squad in slugging percentage (.570) and • The Student Recreation Center has been touted as one of Nick Lance fourth in home runs. the best of its kind in the nation by USA Today.

46 2003 Toledo Baseball Media Guide 2003 Toledo Baseball Media Guide 7

Untitled-1 7 3/20/03, 11:44 AM 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL HEAD COACH JOE KRUZEL COLLEGE LIFE AT TOLEDO Joe served as an assistant coach for the Rockets for four The University of Toledo is located in Toledo, Ohio, seasons (1988-92) under longtime UT mentor Stan Sand- on a suburban campus six miles west of downtown. Kruzel ers. He performed many duties under Sanders, includ- Founded as a small private school in 1872, UT is one ing working closely with the infielders, coaching third • base, directing baseball camps and recruiting. of the largest state universities in Ohio with an en- Head Coach Kruzel was the starting second baseman for the rollment of nearly 21,000 students. UT offers more • Rockets for four seasons (1985-1988). In his senior cam- than 150 academic programs in seven colleges, and paign, Kruzel helped lead UT to 30 wins by hitting .311 offers associate, baccalaureate, master's and doctoral 11th Year with 28 RBI. Kruzel also played for the “Athletes in degrees. Action” traveling squad in 1988. When he completed UT's warm environment provides individual at- Toledo ‘89 his eligibility with the Rockets in 1988, Kruzel imme- diately moved into the coaching ranks. tention, undergraduate classes that average 23 stu- Entering his 11th year at the helm of the Univer- “One of the greatest things that has happened in dents, and a student/faculty ratio of 19/1. Students sity of Toledo baseball program, head coach Joe Kruzel my life is the opportunity to coach at the University of come from almost every county in Ohio, all 50 states is the second-winningest coach in Rocket history. Toledo,” Kruzel said. “This is the place where I was and 98 countries. “Toledo is a great university and a great place to raised. After I was done playing I was given the oppor- Nearly 20 student service-related offices and pro- get an education,” Kruzel tunity to become a coach at grams are available to enhance formal classroom ex- said. “The MAC is also a very my alma mater.” University Hall and Centennial Mall (above) provide the focal competitive league. My goal periences. There are more than 200 student organi- point of campus. UT was graced with the presence of Mexican A 1984 graduate of Cen- President Vicente Fox and U.S. President George Bush (below) in at UT is to put this baseball tral Catholic High School in zations from which to choose. They include academic a joint address at Savage Hall on Sept. 6, 2001. team back into a competitive Toledo, Kruzel played second honoraries, fraternities and sororities, music and winning environment.” base during his prep career dance groups, and more than 40 intramural/sport club dence hall, a housing village for members of its frater- As head coach, Kruzel and garnered all-district hon- programs. UT also competes in 19 men's and women's nities and sororities, and a visual arts building on the has mentored many players ors his senior year. who have gone on to play in A 1989 UT graduate, NCAA Division I-A varsity sports. grounds of the world-renowned Toledo Museum of Art. professional baseball. In Kruzel possesses a bachelor During the 1990's, UT added a $17.3 million Stu- UT also renovated and expanded the Glass Bowl and 1994, John Torok (Philadel- of arts degree in communi- dent Recreation Center, an honors-academic center resi- the Student Union in the 90’s, and constructed a $25 phia) and Greg Keifer (San cation. He is married to the million College of Engineering complex, and a $33 mil- Francisco) were drafted into the professional ranks. In former Amy Subleski and they are the parents of a son, lion Pharmacy, Chemistry and Life Sciences complex. 1995, pitchers Bryan Braswell and Denny Stark were A.J. (10), and two daughters, Jaime (6) and Abigail Last fall, a new Residential Learning Center opened selected in the draft by the Houston Astros and Seattle (4). Mariners, respectively. In 1997, catcher Bill Bronikowski on the southwest portion of campus. More than 600 was drafted by the New York Yankees. In 1999, pitcher students are housed in the center. THE KRUZEL FILE Jeremy Griffiths was taken in the third round of the The city of Toledo provides UT students with access major league draft by the New York Mets. In 2001, out- Full Name: Joseph Allen Kruzel to business, industrial, social, and cultural opportuni- fielder Tony Miller was taken in the 10th round by the Birthdate: Dec. 17, 1965 ties. Students have the chance to benefit from coop- Colorado Rockies. Family: Wife, Amy; Son, A.J. (10); Daughters, Jaime (6) erative educational (COOP) experiences, internships, and Kruzel’s top season at the Rocket helm came in and Abigail (4). the 1999 campaign when he earned the Mid-American Education: B.A. in communications, Toledo ‘89 a diverse job market, as well as from the activities and Conference’s Coach of the Year honors. UT posted a 39- Coaching Experience: Head Coach at UT, 1993-present; excitement of the city of Toledo. 20 ledger that season and finished second in the MAC’s Assistant Coach at UT, 1988-92 West Division with a 23-9 league mark. Playing Experience: Four-year letterwinner at UT, 1985- Prior to assuming the head coaching reins, Kruzel 88; Athletes in Action, 1988.

8 2003 Toledo Baseball Media Guide 2003 Toledo Baseball Media Guide 45

Untitled-1 8 3/20/03, 11:44 AM 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL UNIVERSITY/ATHLETIC LEADERS HEAD COACH JOE KRUZEL

President - Dr. Daniel M. Johnson Toledo Athletic Personnel Dr. Daniel M. Johnson became the 15th president of the Univer- sity of Toledo in July of 2001. He was formerly the provost at the Baseball Coaching Staff University of Alaska-Anchorage. Head Coach - Joe Kruzel ...... 530-6263 Johnson holds a Ph.D. in rural sociology from the University of Assistant Coach - Steve Parrill...... 530-6264 Missouri at Columbia, and a B.A. in sociology and philosophy/religion Assistant Coach - Junie Melendez ...... 530-6264 and an M.A. in sociology from Texas Christian University. Prior to his position in Alaska, Johnson was dean of the School Office Of The Director of Community Service at the University of North Texas in Denton. And Athletic Director - Michael O’Brien ...... 530-4987 from 1979 to 1991, he served as professor of sociology at Virginia Senior Associate A.D. - Mike Karabin ...... 530-4226 Commonwealth University in Richmond. Associate A.D./SWA - Kelly Andrews...... 530-2810 He also has held faculty and administrative positions at other schools, including Sangamon Executive Secretary - Linda Bodine ...... 530-4987 State University (now the University of Illinois at Springfield), Wichita State University, Columbia College (Columbia, MO) and Blackburn College (Carlinville, IL). He has conducted Marketing social and policy research on a wide variety of subjects and published more than 50 articles and Asst. A.D. (Sales & Mktg.) - Sean Briner ...... 530-2486 research reports. He is co-author/editor of three books: The Middle Size Cities of Illinois: Their Asst. A.D. (Development) - Dave Nottke ...... 530-2510 People, Politics and Quality of Life (with Rebecca Monroe Veach), Black Migration in America Marketing Assistant - Shelley Lawniczak ...... 530-4226 (with Rex Campbell), and Metropolitan Universities: An Emerging Model in American Higher Athletic Sales Coordinator - TBA ...... 530-5433 Education (with David Bill). He is currently conducting research for a book under the working Events Manager - Tim Warga ...... 530-2104 title of The Mission of Higher Education. Johnson is married to the former Elaine Clark. They have two sons, Darin and Brent, and Academic Support three grandchildren. Asst. A.D., Academic Services - Sue Irmen ...... 530-3517 Asst. Academic Advisor - Stacy Bowers ...... 530-3518

Athletic Director - Michael O’Brien Compliance Michael O’Brien began his term as athletic director at the Asst. A.D., Compliance - Chris Peacock ...... 530-8496 University of Toledo on Jan. 22, 2002. He is the 13th athletic director Equipment in the history of the school. Equipment Manager - Mike Renard ...... 530-7756 O’Brien amassed 15 years of experience in athletics administra- Asst. Equipment Manager - Jeremy Boyd...... 530-3513 tion at four universities prior to his appointment at UT. Most recently Joe Kruzel with his wife Amy, daughters, Jaime and Abigail, and son, A.J. he was associate athletic director for development at Kansas State Facilities University from 1997-2001. Thus far in his tenure at UT, O’Brien has hired a men’s golf coach, Athletic Facilities Director - Ron Beck ...... 530-3510 a softball coach and a senior woman administrator, Kelly Andrews. He Operations Manager - Tim Ruch ...... 530-3796 Asst. Operations Manager - Steve Soto ...... 530-4338 “One of the greatest things that has happened in also has initiated studies to explore options for the renovations of Savage Hall and the outdoor track. my life is the opportunity to coach at the University At Kansas State, O’Brien was responsible for fund-raising for the Mike Ahearn Scholarship Finance Asst. A.D., Business Affairs - Suzette Fronk ...... 530-2369 fund. He also worked on the football stadium expansion plan and was the administrative of Toledo. This is the place where I was raised. After Budget Operations - Tammy Kneisley ...... 530-2084 liaison with men's basketball. He was the administrator of the "Driving to Victory" courtesy A four-year starter for the Rockets, Kruzel automobile program, which secured 51 participating car dealers, providing 58 staff members Budget Manager - Charlene Fenneken ...... 530-2690 I was done playing, I was given the opportunity to helped lead UT to 30 wins in his senior with courtesy vehicles. Media Relations campaign hitting .311 with 28 RBI. Before joining Kansas State, O’Brien was director of athletics at Lamar University in Beau- become a coach at my alma mater. I don’t think it mont, Texas from 1993 to 1997, and he served as assistant director and then director of develop- Asst. A.D., Media Relations - Paul Helgren ...... 530-4918 ment for athletics at the University of Pittsburgh between 1989 and 1993. He also held marketing Associate Director - Steve Easton ...... 530-4921 can get any better than that.” Assistant Director - Brian DeBenedictis...... 530-4919 and development positions in Ball State University’s athletics department from 1986 to 1989. Media Relations Intern - Jason Payne ...... 530-4925 A native of Iowa City, IA, O'Brien earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Missouri Valley College in 1975, and has master's degrees in education from Wisconsin-River Falls Sports Medicine in 1982 and in sports management from Western Illinois in 1986. Prior to his administrative Head Athletic Trainer - Dave Huffstetler ...... 530-3512 JOE KRUZEL’S DIVISION I COACHING LEDGER career, O'Brien was an assistant basketball coach at three different schools from 1982-1986. O'Brien and his wife, Michelle, were married in November of 1999. Their son, Jack, was Associate Athletic Trainer - Brian Jones ...... 530-7758 Assistant Athletic Trainer - Jen Cummings ...... 530-4333 Overall Record Conference Record born in December of 2001. Year School ...... Won ...... Lost ...... Pct...... Won ...... Lost ...... Pct...... MAC Finish UT Board Of Trustees UT Athletic Committee Strength & Conditioning 1993 Toledo ...... 24 ...... 31 ...... 436...... 13 ...... 17 ...... 433 ...... T-6th Strength Coach - Steve Murray ...... 530-3511 1994 Toledo ...... 23 ...... 31 ...... 426...... 12 ...... 16 ...... 429 ...... 7th Joan Browne, Chair Gerald Sherman, chair Celia Regimbal 1995 Toledo ...... 21 ...... 32 ...... 396...... 9 ...... 21 ...... 300 ...... 8th Daniel Brennan, vice-chair Support Staff Rhonda Brooks Rick Komuniecki Administrative Asst. - Willie Mae Brown ...... 530-5303 1996 Toledo ...... 27 ...... 27 ...... 500...... 18 ...... 14 ...... 563 ...... T-3rd C. William Fall Don Saul Administrative Asst. - Nancy Frazier ...... 530-3612 1997 Toledo ...... 18 ...... 33 ...... 353...... 9 ...... 20 ...... 310 ...... 8th Megan Mamarella, student trustee Alice Skeens Administrative Asst. - Sharon Power ...... 530-3611 1998 Toledo ...... 20 ...... 32 ...... 385...... 13 ...... 17 ...... 433 ...... 5th (West) Richard McQuade David Spiess Rebecca Mocniak, student trustee Bob TenBrook Administrative Asst. - Kathy Skaff ...... 530-5461 1999 Toledo ...... 39 ...... 20 ...... 661...... 23 ...... 9 ...... 719 ...... 2nd (West) Robert Redmond Rod Walton Administrative Asst. - Terry Cole ...... 530-4184 2000 Toledo ...... 21 ...... 33 ...... 389...... 9 ...... 19 ...... 321 ...... T-5th (West) Don Wedding Richard Stansley, Jr. James Klein, ex officio 2001 Toledo ...... 26 ...... 29 ...... 473...... 10 ...... 17 ...... 370 ...... T-5th (West) James Tuschman Ticket Office Dan Saevig, Alumni Director Ticket Operations Mgr. - Roseann Croop ...... 530-2825 2002 Toledo ...... 18 ...... 34 ...... 346...... 9 ...... 18 ...... 333 ...... 6th (West) Hernan Vasquez Phil Pilewski, Student Government Rep. Administrative Asst. - Carol Crum ...... 530-4653 10 SEASONS UT TOTALS ...... 237 ...... 302 ...... 440 ...... 125...... 168...... 427 Through December, 2002

44 2003 Toledo Baseball Media Guide 2003 Toledo Baseball Media Guide 9

Untitled-1 9 3/20/03, 11:44 AM 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL ASSISTANT COACHES THE MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE

In its 56th year of existence, the sion while Bowling THE MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE Steve Junie Mid-American Conference has grown and Green moves to the Parrill Melendez developed into one of the most aggres- West Division for all 24 Public Square, 15th Floor sive and progressive conferences in the sports. Cleveland, OH 44113 • • country. The MAC is in its Phone: (216) 566-4622 Under the guidance of Commissioner third year of a tele- Fax: (216) 696-2622 Assistant Coach Pitching Coach Rick Chryst, the MAC continues to pro- vision agreement vide its student-athletes and the mem- with ESPN. An- Founded: 1946 (56th year) • • ber institutions with the best possible nounced on June 9, Headquarters: Cleveland, OH Rick Chryst Commissioner opportunities. Since 1946, the MAC has 2000, the deal fea- Number of Schools: 13 10th Year 1st Year not only stood the test of time, but has tures over 30 foot- Student Population: Total 275,000 (estimate); Ohio State ‘88 Toledo ‘02 flourished into forming a league that ball and men’s bas- Average: 21,000; Range: 13,000 to 30,000. its founders could not have imagined ketball appearances National Ranking: Fourth-largest in total enrollment. or dreamed. over the terms of Alumni: More than one million One of the vital components to Toledo baseball is Steve Former Rocket hurler Junie Melendez begins his first Based in Cleveland since July of the deal, which ends States With Members: Ohio (6), Michigan (3), Illinois (1), Parrill, who enters his 10th season as an assistant coach. season as pitching coach for the Toledo baseball team. 1999 following a 15-year stay in Toledo, in 2003. Highlight- Indiana (1), New York (1) and West Virginia (1). “I cannot say enough about Steve,” Kruzel said. “He “One of the best things we did as a staff in the offseason OH, the MAC has established historic ing the program- Nearby Major Cities: Chicago, Columbus, Cincinnati, De- does a tremendous job not only with our infielders and our was giving ourselves the opportunity to make Junie a part measurements in both football and ming agreement are troit, Indianapolis. hitters, but he also does a tremendous job helping me. It is of our staff,” Kruzel said. “He loves the University of Toledo men‚s and women‚s basketball since its exclusive national MAC-Sponsored Championships: 23 (12 women, 11 men) like having another head coach on my staff. He has a great and the baseball program.” move to Northeast Ohio. rights to both the • Women’s: basketball, cross country, field hockey, golf, rapport with our players. Every success we’ve had the past A four-year starter for the Midnight Blue and Gold, The 2001-02 athletic season marked MAC Football Cham- gymnastics, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, indoor track, nine seasons has as much to do with Steve’s effort as any- Melendez compiled 19 wins in his career in 266.1 innings the first time ever that the MAC had pionship Game and outdoor track, volleyball. one else.” pitched. He ranks third in school history in innings pitched two teams involved in bowl games, with the MAC Men’s Bas- league champion Toledo (Motor City) ketball Champion- • Men’s: baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, During his tenure with the Rockets, Parrill has worked and tied for seventh in wins. His best season was as a junior and East Division champion Marshall ship Game. soccer, swimming, tennis, indoor track, outdoor track, wres- with players at every position, in addition to serving as the in 1999, when he went 9-5 with a 3.10 ERA. Also in 1999, (GMAC) winning post season competi- The Mid-Ameri- tling. first-and third-base coach. Melendez set a school record for most shutouts in a season tion. The MAC became the first league can Conference was Before joining the Rockets, Parrill, 39, served as an as- with four. outside the BCS conferences to finish founded as a five- sistant coach for three years at Indiana (1989-92) and one A native of Lorain, OH, Melendez received his bachelor with two top 25 teams in either major school league on makes it the fourth-largest conference year at Bowling Green (1988-89). He was also an assistant of education degree from UT in May 2002. poll. Toledo was ranked No. 23 in the February 24, 1946 in Columbus, OH with in the United States. MAC alumni num- baseball coach at Dublin High School (1987-88) in Dublin, Melendez replaces Jim Kubacki, who has served as the Associated Press poll and No. 22 in the OH, Butler, Cincinnati, Wayne State and ber over 1.7 million. OH and a head baseball coach at Northwestern High School Rockets’ pitching coach in three of the last four years. USA TODAY/ESPN Coaches poll. Marshall Western Reserve admitted as charter Over its 56-plus years, the MAC has (1992-93) in Springfield, OH. "We’re very sad to see Jim go, but at the same time we’re was No. 21 (ESPN). members. The MAC now has 13 fulltime produced a long list of great athletes In men’s basketball, the MAC Tour- schools and a 14th, Central Florida, for Parrill is married to the former Heidi Marshall and they fortunate to have Junie available to step in and take over," and coaches from all corners of the nament at Gund Arena again established football only. The 14 current football- are the parents of two sons, Collin (11) and Griffin (3), and Kruzel said. “Junie played here and was very successful. He sports world, including Olympic gold attendance records last year, conclud- member institutions have a total enroll- a daughter, Madalyn (9). is eager to become a good coach. We’re excited to have him medalists, Major League Baseball, NFL ing with a championship game crowd of ment of better than 310,000, with indi- on our staff working with our pitchers. We feel it will be a and NBA standouts, PGA standouts, na- 14,106. Men’s basketball champion Kent vidual enrollments ranging from 16,000- good situation, not only for our pitching staff but our en- tional-caliber game officials and Hall of State came within one game of becom- 38,000. The MAC’s overall enrollment THE PARRILL FILE Fame coaches and players. The tire team.” ing the first MAC team to ad- MAC was the first Division I- Full Name: Stephen Anthony Parrill vance to the Final Four after CURRENT MAC MEMBERSHIP A conference to have its own Birthdate: October 31, 1962 defeating Oklahoma State, Ala- Hall of Fame, which began in Family: Wife, Heidi; Sons, Collin (11) and Griffin (3); Daugh- bama and Pittsburgh in the West East 1988. ter, Madalyn (10). NCAA Tournament. Ball State Akron The MAC is a presidentially Education: B.S. in education, Ohio State. Most noteworthy in 2001- Bowling Green Buffalo THE MELENDEZ FILE controlled conference, where Coaching Experience: Assistant Coach at UT, 1993-present; 02, however, was the an- Central Michigan Central Florida * all major policy decisions are Head Coach at Northwestern High School, 1992-1993; Assis- nounced expansion to 14 Eastern Michigan Kent State Full Name: Eugenio Melendez, Jr. made by the Council of Presi- tant Coach at Indiana University, 1989-1992; Assistant Coach teams in the sport of football Northern Illinois Marshall Birthdate: March 4, 1978 Toledo Miami dents, which consists of chief at Bowling Green, 1988-1989; Assistant Coach at Dublin (OH) with the addition of the Uni- Education: B.S. in physical education, Toledo ‘02. Western Michigan Ohio executive officers of the 13 full High School, 1987-88. versity of Central Florida. UCF Coaching Experience: Assistant Coach at UT, 2002-present. * Football Only member universities. will compete in the East Divi-

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Untitled-1 10 3/20/03, 11:44 AM 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL 2003 TOLEDO ROCKETS BASEBALL ROCKETS IN THE PROS MEET THE ROCKETS Ian Taylor BALTZER ECKEL 27 9 Senior • 6-4 • 215 • R/L Senior • 5-9 • 175 • L/R Xenia, OH Toledo, OH Pitcher Beavercreek High School Infielder Start High School Fifth-year season ... Coming off elbow surgery that caused Co-captain ... 2002 Second-Team All-MAC honoree ... Devel- him to miss entire 2002 season ... Looks to be in good shape and oped into a very good second baseman ... Turns double plays as Denny Stark Jeremy Griffiths Tony Miller Bryan Braswell healthy ... Another left hander in bullpen ... Could also be a spot well as anyone in the MAC ... A gritty and hard-nosed player who starter ... Made quick transition into effective college pitcher, due never backs down from a challenge ... Picked up in the fall right where he left off last season ... Will play a key role in Rockets’ in large part to boost in confidence since start of his sophomore success this season with both his offense and defense ... Has good year ... Also has made strides in developing his body and gaining range and a solid arm ... Scrappy player with a strong work ethic strength ... A hard thrower with a loose arm ... Strong competitor who is a product of one of the nation’s top high school programs. who knows how to pitch effectively ... Member of 2001 MAC Aca- 2002: Second-team All-MAC selection, hitting .361 ... Third demic Honor Roll. among UT starters in batting average ... Saw action in all 52 2002: Missed the entire season due to elbow injury. games, making 51 starts at second base ... First on team in sacri- 2001: Compiled a 3-3 record with a 7.84 ERA ... Struck out fice bunts (14) and sacrifice flies (5), second in runs scored (41) 23 hitters in 31 innings of action ... Picked up wins vs. Adrian and multi-hit games (24), third in total bases (93), hits (69) and stolen bases (4), fourth in multi-RBI games (7) and fifth in RBI (Apr. 4), Oakland (Apr. 10) and Western Michigan (May 4) ... Win (32) ... Hit a team-best .393 (57-for-145) against right-handed vs. Oakland was a complete-game six hitter (Apr. 10). pitching ... Finished 4-for-9 with a pair of runs scored in season 2000: Pitched in seven contests, with three starts. finale vs. Central Michigan (May 19) ... Went 4-for-9 with three 1999: Appeared in one game and pitched one inning. runs scored and three RBI in a doubleheader, including a home Len Matuszek Stan Clarke Jerry Schunk Marc Wilkins High School: Named first team all-conference his junior and run, at Marshall (Mar. 24) ... Hit 4-for-4 with four RBI and three senior years ... Had a combined 12-2 pitching record ... Three- runs scored, including a double and a home run, against Bethel ROCKETS IN THE PROS year letterwinner in both baseball and football. College (Apr. 9) ... Hit a pair of home runs at Oakland (Apr. 23). In Rocket baseball history, nearly 50 former UT players have appeared on Personal: Born Ian Patrick Baltzer on Feb. 29, 1980 ... Par- 2001: Made 30 starts at second base ... Collected six mul- a professional baseball roster. Among these are former Rocket two-sport tiple-hit games, including a season-best three at Western Ken- ents are Brian and Sharon Baltzer ... Enrolled in the College of standout Len Matuszek, infielder Scott Fletcher, pitcher Denny Stark and tucky (Mar. 3) ... Clubbed lone home run of the season at North- former Rocket quarterback and pitcher A.J. Sager. Education, majoring in middle-childhood education. ern Illinois (Apr. 28) ... Had a two-run double in 9-4 win at Spalding ATLANTA DETROIT MONTREAL Len Matuszek Kevin Balogh Marty McCarthy Randy Schafer Tom Popovich (Mar. 15). Jeff Greene Jim Murphy Mark Knose Tom Marsh Monte Mathis Herb Krul John Torok 2000: Registered a pair of two-run, three-RBI efforts vs. Ohio Mike Monus NEW YORK (AL) (Mar. 26) and Central Michigan (May 7) ... Also hit lone home run BALTIMORE Brad Davies Neal Mersch PITTSBURGH Jeff Kneisley Jeff Brown Mike O’Reilly Marc Wilkins vs. the Chippewas (May 7). Mike Rachuba Dave Whiting Guy Elston High School: First-team All-City and All-District senior year A.J. Sager Dan Cox SAN DIEGO CHICAGO (NL) Paul Peer Roger Coe ... Second-team All-State senior year. Mike Karabin HOUSTON Tim Kubacki Personal: Born Taylor Paul Eckel on Oct. 10, 1980 ... Parents Bryan Braswell Rick Molnar SAN FRANCISCO CINCINNATI Greg Kiefer are Rick and Denise Eckel ... Enrolled in the College of Education, Tom Marsh A.J. Sager Dave Creager MILWAUKEE NEW YORK (NL) Greg Cicotte Jeremy Griffiths TEXAS majoring in multi-age education. CLEVELAND Scott Fletcher Tom Roberts MINNESOTA OAKLAND Terry Tyson Mark Blumenschein Kevin MacLeod TORONTO Baltzer’s Career Statistics John Foster John Eisinger Jeff Ladd Year ERA W L G-GS IP R ER H BB SO SV Eckel’s Career Statistics COLORADO Dave Krol Jim Mansilla Mike Yearout Denny Stark Pat Rosenbauer 1999 45.00 0 0 1-0 1.0 5 5 3 3 1 0 Year BA G AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SB Tony Miller PHILADELPHIA Stan Clarke 2000 7.79 0 1 7-3 17.1 17 15 23 13 6 0 2000 .205 30 78 11 16 2 1 1 12 6 2 Joe Rambisz Jerry Schunk 2001 7.84 3 3 14-3 31.0 30 27 40 21 23 0 2001 .231 40 117 17 27 5 2 1 15 2 2 2002 Redshirt Season — Injured 2002 .361 52 191 41 69 9 0 5 32 14 4 Totals 8.61 3 4 22-6 49.1 52 47 66 37 30 0 Totals .290 122 386 69 112 16 3 7 59 22 8

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