WESTERN LEADS ALL OKLAHOMA SCHOOLS WITH 7 DRAFT PICKS
While attending a baseball game that Western Oklahoma was playing in, one thing you would be sure to see is a bevy of professional scouts grading the Pioneer players. When the Major League Baseball Draft finally arrived it was a busy and exciting time for several Pioneers. Leading the way was Highly touted Shortstop and RHP Andrelton Simmons who was selected in the Second Round by the Atlanta Braves. Next was RHP and Oklahoma State Signee Jamaine Cotton who was taken in the 15th by the Houston Astros. This was the Second time Cotton was Drafted as he was taken in the 28th by the Giants the previous season. Jose Ramos followed by being picked in the 20th round by the Chicago White Sox and Casey Sadler in the 25 by the Pittsburg Pirates. Randolph Oduber and Wander Nunez were both selected by the Washington Nationals in the 32 and 34 rounds respectively. Dillon Wilson was selected in the 43 round by the Kansas City Royals. Western Oklahoma had more players selected than any school on any level in the state of Oklahoma in the 2010 draft. Also, former Pioneers standout, Jose Cuevas was taken in the 29th round by the Cleveland Indians.
PIONEERS COME UP JUST SHORT IN MEMORABLE, RECORD SETTING SEASON
The Western Oklahoma State Pioneers overcame adversity in many forms over the course of the 2010 baseball season on their way to setting the Division II Junior College Record for most wins in a season with 56. After a vicious ice storm caused the Pioneers to play their first 20 games on the road, the team went on to run through conference play with a 19-1 mark while overcoming several injuries to key players along the way including playing the entire conference season without Andrelton Simmons, a second round pick by the Atlanta braves. After sweeping the conference and district tournaments Western Oklahoma State finished the season with their third straight trip to the World Series and the best showing of the three trips. The Pioneers opened World Series play by run ruling Madison Area Technical College behind a masterful Pitching Performance by Jamaine Cotton and an offensive explosion by the entire Western Oklahoma State offense as the Pioneers scored runs in ever inning except the second. Next in line to face the hot hitting Pioneers was Powerhouse LSU Eunice and the Pioneers answered the challenge in a huge way in the form of an 11 to 1 run rule lasting only 6 innings. Wander Nunez led the way offensively with a towering grand slam in the second inning. Casey Sadler threw a complete game allowing LSU no chance of crawling back into the game after Western jumped out to an early lead. The Pioneers Proceeded to turn in their third consecutive run rule on the following day. this time the opponent was previously unbeaten Iowa Central. The 5 inning 12 to 1 beat down of Iowa Central set the stage for the 13 inning marathon on the following night between Western and Avery Point. Chris Byford turned in by far his most impressive outing of the season by throwing 6 1/3 innings and allowing only one earned run and struck out 9. Andrelton Simmons followed Byford and threw the remaining 6 innings also striking out 9. Simmons received the loss in his courageous outing. Previously the furthest the Pioneers had stretched Simmons was 2 1/3 innings. After the emotionally Draining 13 inning loss, the Pioneers season was ended at the hands of another soft throwing Avery Point pitcher leaving the Pioneers with a record tying final mark of 56 and 7. The team entered the season expecting big things from a sophomore heavy pitching staff, and the staff responded in a big way turning in an impressive team ERA of 2.98. The staff was led by Sophomore starters Casey Sadler ( 10-1, 3.12, 74 innings, 81 K's), Dillon Wilson ( 6-1, 3.62, 50 innings 69 K's) and Jamaine Cotton (11-1, 2.54, 60 innings and 53 K's) and Sophomore relievers Chris Byford (7-1 2 saves, 2.51, 47 innings 60 k's) and Steven Stein (3-0, 2.21, 38 innings 49 K's). Freshman Levi Lewis (11-1 2 saves, 2.53, 58 innings, 53 K's) played a huge role both as a starter and a reliever and will be the top returning pitcher for the 2011 season. In another monstrous offensive season, the Pioneers had a team batting average of .392, clubbed 132 home runs, and stole 198 bases. Randolph Oduber turned in another season with eye popping numbers as he hit a team leading .472 with 26 home runs and stole 26 bases. Andrelton Simmons tied Oduber with the team lead in batting with a .472 mark as well. Eddie Cervantes proved to be a valuable commodity for Western as the only left handed stick in the line up. Cervantes finished the season hitting 450 with 10 home runs. Sophomore leaders Randy Ramirez( .388, 8 hr26 sb), Benshell Garcia ( .414, 7 hr 29 sb) and Jose Ramos ( .366 11 hr and 17 2b) were invaluable for their leadership and performance on the field. The Pioneers will return Garrett Brown ( .372, 5 hr, 9 sac), Wander Nunez (.397, 21 2b, 16 hr), and Jhiomar Veras ( .327, 21 hr, 17 sb). With a solid core of returning players and a stellar recruiting class the Pioneers are reloaded and prepared to make another run at the World Series.
LIVE GAME FEED AND RADIO BROADCAST OF THE WORLD SERIES
Chisolm Trail Broadcasting will carry every game of the NJCAA World Series live on ESPN Radio 1390 AM KCRC an online at www.ctbsports.com. There will also be a link at www.davidallenballpark.com where you can watch the game live and get the most recent tournament and statistics from Dakstats.
PIONEERS TO HOST FAN APPRECIATION NIGHT
The Western Oklahoma State Pioneers are headed to the NJCAA DII World Series for the third consecutive season. The Pioneers would like to invite the community to join the team, coaches and families for a Fan Appreciation Night. There will be a free clinic for the area little league and hot dogs and hamburgers. The event will begin at 6PM ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 26.
WESTERN STAYS ATOP THE RANKINGS IN NEWEST POLL
The Western Oklahoma State Pioneers will enter the World Series with a 53-5 record and a number 1 national ranking. The Pioneers boast an impressive resume with 2 victories over Longview College ( 2007 NJCAA DII National Champs), 3 against New Mexico JC (2005 NJCAA DI National Champs and 2007 runners up), 2 wins against Tyler JC (2008 NJCAA DIII National Champs), and 2 wins against in state rival Seminole State (2009 NJCAA DI World Series Participant). The Pioneers were an Impressive 19-1 in conference play and 7 and 0 thus far in post season play.
PIONEERS SWEEP SUPER REGIONAL, SET TO MAKE THIRD STRAIGHT TRIP TO WORLD SERIES
The pioneers are hitting their stride at the right time. After cruising through the first two games, Western Oklahoma State won the finale in dramatic fashion to sweep the super regional in Kansas City. Game one featured Western and 2007 World Series Champs Longview out of Kansas City. Jamaine Cotton took the hill for the Pioneers and turned in another dominant performance going 6 innings and striking out 5. Longview's only runs came on a three un home run in the 6th inning. Chris Byford followed Cotton with a perfect 7th inning to secure the run rule and an 11-3 Pioneer victory. The pioneers were led offensively by Ruben Sosa (4-4 4 runs), Andrelton Simmons (3-3 3 runs) and Randolph Oduber whose 4th inning three run home run sparked the Western offense. In game 2, Western faced familiar foe Brown Mackie. The Pioneers brought 5 runs across in the second inning and added runs in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th to secure their second run rule of the tournament. James Rhodes turned in an excellent start throwing 4 innings and did not allow a run. Eddie Cervantes gave the Pioneer fans and coaching staff a glimpse of what is in store for next season as he threw the final two innings allowing 1 un earned run and struck out 4 batters and showed electric stuff. Western's offense was again led by Ruben Sosa who was 3 for 4 and a triple shy of the cycle, and Andrelton Simmons who was a perfect 4 for 4 with 3 singles and a double. In the final game of the tournament Western took on Longview for a second time ion a championship game that kept fans on the edge of their seats for its entirety. Longview struck first with an unearned run in the first inning and the Pioneers battled back scoring 2 in the second. The two teams went back and forth exchanging runs for the next couple of innings and Longview took a 4 to 3 lead in the 5th. Casey Sadler the Western Oklahoma starter, got into a jam in the 7th inning with two runners on and no outs. Chris Byford Came on in relief and stopped the threat while retiring the side in order to leave Longview scoreless. Byford again faced a similar jam as he loaded the bases with no outs but again came through in the clutch and got three outs without allowing a run. Byford's energy proved to be just the spark the Pioneers needed as they scored 5 runs in the bottom of the 8th inning by executing on hit and runs and bunts. The pressure from the small ball was too much for the Lakers of Longview as the Pioneers showed great team speed and execution. Western Oklahoma State Closer Andrelton Simmons came in to close the door and ensure the Pioneers of their third straight trip to the World Series. The World Series will be held and David Allen Ballpark, in Enid Oklahoma. Western will begin action on Sunday at noon against Madison College.
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PIONEERS COMPLETE SWEEP OF REDLANDS
The weather finally held up and allowed Western and Redlands to take the field for the final two games of the series. Jamaine Cotton took the mound for the pioneers in the first game of the long awaited double header. Cotton turned in another strong performance throwing 6 innings allowing only 4 hits and two runs. Redlands only runs came off a two run home run in the 2nd inning and was shut out for the remainder of the contest with Mario Mena recording the save in the seventh. Mena gave up one hit and struck out two to close the door on Redlands and secure a 5 to 2 victory for the Pioneers. The Pioneers were led offensively by Randolph Oduber who turned in a 3 for 3 performance, Jose Ramos who hit his 7th home run of the season, and Benshell Garcia who was 2 for 3 and hit his 5th home run of the season. In the second game, Angel Pacheco made his first start of the year and was settling in nicely after allowing 2 runs in the first before leaving the game with elbow soreness. Chris Byford entered the game and was dominant striking out the first three batters he faced. Byford went on to throw two scoreless innings. Steven Stein and Mario Mena each threw an inning a piece and held Redlands at bay while the Pioneers offense came alive in the later innings scoring 6 in the 5th and 2 in the 6th. Randolph Oduber hit his 15 home run of the season and Western got doubles from Cervantes, Ramirez and Munoz all in the 6 run 5th inning. The 9-2 victory improved the Pioneers to 37 and 4 overall and 11 and 1 in conference. Western Oklahoma State will be in action again at home on Thursday against NOC Enid in a double header starting at 1pm.
WESTERN TAKES 3 OF 4 FROM NOC TONKAWA
After suffering its first loss in conference, Western bounced back behind another strong pitching performance by Jamaine Cotton who threw 5 innings, striking out 5 and allowing only one earned run. Levi Lewis and Chris Byford went on to throw a scoreless 6th and 7th inning. The after going scoreless for the first 3 innings the Pioneers scored twice in the 4th on a Wander Nunez home run, his 14th of the season. In the 5th Western exploded for 7 runs which were ignited by a Randy Ramirez 3 run home run to put the game out of reach. western went on to win 11 to 2. Jose Ramos Continued his hot streak to lead the pioneers offense going 3 for 4 with two doubles and two RBI. The Pioneers traveled to Tonkawa for games 3 and 4 of the series. In Game 3 Dillon Wilson continued to Dominate in conference play. He threw 5 innings facing only 3 batters above the minimum, allowing 1 run while striking out 8. Offensively the pioneers came out hot recording 6 hits and 5 runs in the first inning and continued to pound out runs through all 7 innings. 7 Pioneer hitters posted multiple hits led by Ben Garcia who was 5 for 5 and just a triple shy of hitting for the cycle. Randolph Oduber hit his 15th home run of the season as Western went on to win 20 to 1. Game 4 was filled with excitement and lead changes. Steven Stein Started the game on the mound for Western and threw three innings giving up three runs (2 earned) on four hits. Levi Lewis came on in relief with the Pioneers trailing 3 to1. The Pioneers fought back scoring one in the 5th and then took the lead in the 6th on a Rafael Munoz 2 run Home Run to make the score 4 to 3. The lead did not last long as Tonkawa answered back with three runs to re-take the lead 6 to four going into the dramatic 7th inning. Jhiomar Veras led off the inning with a double and Oduber was hit by a pitch to put runners on second and third. After a failed bunt attempt, Ruben Sosa singled down the left field line bringing home Oduber and Eddie Cervantes to tie the game at 6. Nunez followed with a single and scored on a Randy Ramirez line drive single up the middle for the game winning seventh run. Levi Lewis Returned to the mound and got 3 up, 3 down to shut the door on Tonkawa and secure the Pioneers 3rd consecutive conference series win. The Pioneers are now 35 and 4 and 9 and 1 in conference.
PIONEERS TAKE TWO FROM REDLANDS
Western Oklahoma extended its win streak to 18 games by taking both games of the double header at home on Thursday against Redlands college.. For the year, Western is 32 and 3 and 6 and 0 in conference. In game one, Casey Sadler was touched for three first inning runs but settled in and allowed only one hit and no runs over the remaining six innings. With a 4-3 lead going into the 5th inning Randy Ramirez blasted a three run home run over the centerfield wall to shut the door on Redlands. Dillon Wilson took the mound in game two for the Pioneers. Wilson went 5 innings allowing only one run while striking out 7 to record his 4th victory of the season. Jose Ramos put on an offensive spectacle going 3 for 3 with 3 home runs, the last of the three was a 3 -run blast to left center that ended the game via run rule. The 12 to 1 victory was the 3rd run rule of the six conference games. Rafael Munoz added his 4th home run of the season in a pinch hit oppertunity and Jhiomar Veras hit his nation leading 19th home run as well.
WESTERN OPENS CONFERENCE WITH FOUR GAME SWEEP OF MURRAY STATE
The Pioneers traveled to Tishamingo to open the 2010 conference season. Having made back to back World Series appearances, Western entered as the heavy favorite to repeat as conference champions. The Pioneers showed as advertised, giving up only 3 runs in the 4 game series (2 earned) while scoring 46 runs. Casey Sadler took the mound in the first game for the Pioneers. Sadler went the distance striking out 5 while giving up only 4 hits and no runs over 7 innings. After a quiet first 4 innings, the Western offense exploded for 4 runs in the 5th inning beginning with a two run triple by Ruben Sosa. Jhiomar Veras followed by bringing home Sosa with his 14th home run of the season. The Pioneers added two more in each of the next two innings to secure a solid 8-0 victory in the conference opener. Leading the offense was Ruben Sosa who was 3 for 4 while driving in 2 runs and scoring 2 as well.
Game two was much of the same as Dillon Wilson held Murray State to just one unearned run while striking out 5 over 4 1/3 innings. Angel Pacheco threw a perfect final 2 innings to shut the door on a 7 to 1 victory. Offensively Western got contributions from every spot in the line up having 1-9 reach base safely. Sosa continued to stay hot with another 3 for 4 performance. Benshell Garcia was 2 for 3 with two doubles and Veras added his team, conference, and nation leading 15th home run as well.
Game three and four were played at the Pioneers newly renovated home stadium and the explosive offense was on full display. The pioneers hammered across 19 runs in a run rule shortened 5 inning game. The Western was an unheard of 16 for 25 at the plate for the game. Sosa, Oduber Brown Cervantes and Garcia were all perfect at the plate. Veras, Oduber, Cervantes and Brown each added home runs. Jamaine Cotton was impressive throwing all 5 while striking out 5 and giving up 1 run on 3 hits.
In the final game of the 4 game series the Pioneers were quite scoring just 1 through the first 4 innings before coming alive for 11 runs in the bottom of the 5th to end the game with a run rule. Cervantes went 2for2 and added his 5th home run and his second of the day while scoring three runs to remain perfect in the double header. Garcia also remained perfect on the day going 2 for 2, adding his 3rd home run of the season. Munoz and Sosa also homered for the Pioneers. Western Turned in another Dominant performance on the mound as Steven Stein and Levi Lewis Combine for 1 run over 5 innings giving up only 5 hits and striking out 5. Conference play will continue for Western Oklahoma State on Thursday, April 15 at home against Redlands in a double header starting at 1pm.
PIONEERS JUMP TO THE NUMBER TWO SPOT IN LATEST NJCAA POLL
After racing off to a 19-3 start, the Western Oklahoma State Pioneers, who were ranked 4th in the preseason poll, have jumped to the number 2 spot in the most recent NJCAA poll. The 19 wins include 2 against 2009 World Series participant Seminole State, a three-game series sweep of 2005 World Series Champs and 2007 Runners-up New Mexico JC, and two victories against 2007 Division 3 World Series Champs.
PIONEERS COMPLETE SWEEP ON THE YEAR OF LONGTIME RIVAL AND PERENNIAL POWERHOUSE, SEMINOLE STATE
Traditionally, games between Western Oklahoma State and Seminole State have been filled with excitement, lead changes, and down to the wire action. Sunday was no different as the Pioneers pulled out a 9 to 8 victory in the bottom of the 9th in walk-off fashion. Trailing 2 to 1 after 3 innings, Western stormed back with 5 runs in the bottom of the 4th highlighted by a 2 run double to rightfield by Jhiomar Veras. It was a back and forth type of day as Seminole answered right back in the top of the 5th with 2 more runs, and then in the eight inning erasing a two run Pioneer lead to tie the game at 8. But in the 9th the pioneers loaded the bases and Andy Lugo drew a two out walk which brought Andrelton Simmons home for the winning run. Casey Sadler started on the mound for the Pioneers and threw two scoreless innings, allowing no hits, and striking out 3. Andrelton Simmons earned the win facing the minimum number of batters in the 9th and striking out 1 over 2 innings to improve to 2 and 0 on the season. The pioneers were led offensively by Garrett Brown who was 2 for 3 with a double and a run scored. Randy Ramirez was 2 for 4 on the day with an RBI, a stolen base and 2 runs scored. The Pioneers will return to action at home this Saturday with a 3 game series with Brown Mackie starting with a double header on Saturday, with a 2:30 game time.
WESTERN SOLID IN FT. WORTH
In the first game of a double header against Texas Weslyan, the Pioneers were very efficient in putting up runs, as they did so in every inning but the fourth in route to an 11-7 victory while improving to 18 and 3 on the season. Randy Ramirez stole the show offensively going 3 for 4 with 4 RBI, 2 runs scored and 2 stolen bases. Garrett Brown entered the game in the sixth and was 1 for 1 driving in 2 runs and also recording a stolen base. Dillon Wilson Started on the mound for Western and kept the pioneers in the game through 4 innings before handing the ball over to Chris Byford who threw a perfect 5th and sixth inning. Steven Stein shut the door on Weslyan in the seventh by striking out all three batters. The second game featured James Rhodes making his first start of the season. Rhodes was impressive, allowing just two hits in three innings while striking out 2. The Pioneers took an early 1 to 0 lead as Ruben Sosa singled to lead off the game and was driven in by Andrelton Simmons' line drive single into right field. The game was called due to rain in the bottom of the fourth with Western leading 1 to 0. The Pioneers will be in action again on Sunday Feb. 28 at home against 2009 World Series participant Seminole State in a 9 inning game starting at 1:00 P.M.
PIONEERS TAKE TWO IN HOME OPENER
The Western Oklahoma State Pioneers hosted Wayland Baptist in a double header for the first home games of the 2010 season. Prior to Tuesday's outing, Western Starting Pitcher Rafelin Guzman had not thrown more than two innings in an outing. On the day, Guzman went 4 innings striking out seven and allowing 1 run. Chris Byford relieved Guzman in the 5th inning and closed the door on Wayland while striking out 2 in 2 innings of work. Randolph Oduber led the Pioneers offense with a 3 for 3 day with all three hits being doubles. Rafael Munoz and Jhiomar Veras were both 2 for three on the day, each with a solo home run. The home run was Munoz first of the season and the seventh for Veras. The Pioneers offense exploded in the second game for 15 runs on 15 hits including 9 for extra bases and 3 home runs. Jhiomar Veras continued to stay hot, going 3 for 3 and was a double shy of hitting for the Cycle. Munoz connected for his second home run of the season and Jose Ramos hit his first home run of the season as well. Shortstop Andrelton Simmons was 2 for 3 on the day with 2 runs scored and 2 stolen bases. Levi Lewis threw the complete game for the Pioneers, turning in a solid performance allowing 3 earned runs in 5 innings while striking out 5. Western will travel to Ft. Worth, Tx on Wednesday, March 24 to take on Texas Weslyan at La Grave Field in a double header starting at 3:00 P.M.
WESTERN TAKES 2 OF THREE FROM TYLER JUNIOR COLLEGE.
The Western Pioneers win their final game of a three game series with the # 2 ranked Apaches of Tyler Junior College 3 to 1. The Pioneers, for the third straight game had outstanding pitching. Dillon Wilson started the game and gave the Western three strong scoreless innings to start off, and was relieved by Steven Stein. Stein came in to the game to start the 4th inning and gave up 1 run early before settling in and shutting the door on the Apaches. Stein struck out 4 batters in 4 innings of work. The Pioneer hitters were led by Jose Ramos with a 2 for 3 day and Jhiomar Veras with a game winning 2 RBI double.Western went into the top of the 7th inning tied 1 to 1. With 2 outs, Benshell Garcia reached base on a hit by pitch. Jose Ramos followed with a single to left and Veras stepped up to the plate and hit a two run double to the right field fence to drive in the winning runs. Western will return to playing on Tuesday, March 23. It will be the Pioneers first home game due to the construction of the new backstop.
PIONEERS GIVE ONE AWAY
The Western Oklahoma State Pioneers dropped game 2 of the 3 game set with the Apaches in the 6th inning. Western entered the bottom of the 6th frame with a 3 to 0 lead when the Pioneer defense (which had been virtually flawless up to that point) made some costly errors which ultimately cost them the game. Jamaine Cotton turned in his strongest performance of the year, throwing 5 innings and allowing only 1 earned run. Western was led offensively by Ruben Sosa who was 3 for 4 with 2 stolen bases while Garrett Brown and Randolph Oduber each had two hits.
WESTERN TAKES OPENER AT TYLER
Western opened a 3 game series with nationally Ranked #2 Tyler J.C. with a 10-2 victory. Casey Sadler started the game and threw three scoreless innings. Levi Lewis earned the win in a strong relief stint, giving up no runs. Andrelton Simmons came in to secure the win throwing 1 2/3 innings and striking out 5 to help keep the hot hitting Apaches off the scoreboard. the pioneers pounded out 19 hits and were led by Freshman Right Fielder Wander Nunez. Nunez was 4 for 5 with 3 RBI. Andrelton Simmons chipped in with 3 hits and Randolph Oduber added two more including his 8th Home Run of the sesson.
PIONEERS TRAVEL TO TYLER
Western Oklahoma State will play the 2007 NJCAA Division 3 National Champions, the Tyler Junior College Appache's in a three game series starting with one 9 inning game on Friday and a Double Header on Saturday. Tyler J.C. enters the weekend with a record of 19 wins and 7 losses. The Series will be held at Mike Carter Field which is the sight for the NJCAA Division 3 World Series. Starting the first game on Friday is Casey Sadler. The Starters for the double header on Saturday will be Jamaine Cotton and Dionisio Paredes respectively.
WESTERN OFF TO FAST START
The Western Oklahoma State Pioneers are off to an impressive start with 13 wins and 2 losses. Perhaps the most impressive thing about the Pioneers fast start is the adversity that they overcame just prior to the start of the season. On January 28, Altus, Oklahoma was hit with a horrific ice storm leaving the whole town without heat and electricity for up to two weeks in some areas. The diverse Pioneer roster boasts players from 6 different countries which made it difficult for the players to return home during the tough time. Instead of dispersing to their respective homes the players embraced their situation and used it as a time to bond with one another and grow closer as a team. The players and coaches alike understood the importance moving forwards and not taking any steps backwards with the season just around the corner, and like many great teams they were able to turn a tough situation into a teaching tool and an ultimately positive experience. One of the expected strengths for Western for the 2010 season is their unrivaled depth on the mound which has been on full display through the first 15 games as they have used 14 different pitchers. Also in full force is the power that the Pioneers have become notorious for as they have recorded 36 home runs in the early stages of the season. The Pioneers fast start to the 2010 season is highlighted by a 4-3 victory over in-state rival and #11 nationally ranked Seminole Junior College and a three game road series sweep of the 2005 NJCAA Champions and 2007 Runners- Up, New Mexico Junior College. Anchoring the deep pitching staff early on are Oklahoma State Signee, Casey Sadler (3-0, 3.36 era, 21 k's), Dionisio Paredes ( 1-0, 0.62 era, 16 k's), Steven Stein ( 2-0, 1.85 era, 18 k's) and Levi Lewis (1-0, 2 saves, 1.05 era,10 k's). Fueling the high powered Western Oklahoma offense is returning All-American Center Fielder, SF Giants Draftee, and Oklahoma State Signee Randolph Oduber ( .450, 7 HR, 19 RBI) newcomer and Philadelphia Phillies Draftee Wander Nunez ( .481, 8 HR, 20 RBI) and do-it-all Shortstop Andrelton Simmons (.440, 6 2B, 5 HR, 22 RBI, 6 SB; 1-0, 1 Save, 0.00 ERA, 10 k's).
PIONEERS RANKED 3RD NATIONALLY IN PRE-SEASON POLL
After
a second straight appearance in the Junior College World Series,
the Pioneers have earned a number three national ranking in the
Collegiate Baseball Newspaper, coming in only behind fellow
world series participant Des Moines Area C.C., and defending
national champions, Parkland C.C.. The Pioneers will begin
spring practices on Monday January 11th.
Fall 09 Season Off to Good Start
After another Record breaking season in 2009, the Western
Oklahoma State College Pioneers have reloaded and are preparing
to make another run in 2010. A bevy of talented newcomers will
help returning All-American Centerfielder and 48th round
selection of the San Francisco Giants, Randolph Oduber anchor a
line-up that is expected to continue to put up the monstrous
numbers that have become synonymous with Pioneer baseball.
The new faces include two Junior College All-American
transfers, Rafael Munoz and Ruben Sosa, highly touted shortstop
Andrelton Simmons, Second Baseman Andy Lugo, and outfielder
Wander Nunez, a 48th round pick by the Philadelphia Phillies.
Set to lead the talented young group is a core of savvy WOSC
veterans. Second year players Benshell Garcia, Eddie Cervantes,
Garret Brown, Randy Ramirez, Jhiomar Veras, Osvaldo Santana and
Lieby Gonzalez will be mainstays in a very deep line-up and will
also be looked upon to provide leadership. On the mound
the Pioneers have the luxury of a pitching staff with depth that
rivals that of any junior college program in the country.
Leading the way will be the quartet
of returning pitchers, Casey Sadler, Jamaine Cotton (28th round,
San Francisco Giants) Dillon Wilson, and Chris Byford, who
accounted for a large portion of the innings for the 2009
season. Third year pitcher Steven Stein and newcomers
Levi Lewis, Jeremy Flores and Christain Diaz will also be
counted on to be staples in the rotation for the upcoming
season. The Pioneer Bullpen will be potent and very deep.
Mario Mena and Freddy Soto will be set to handle the late
innings. The versatile Simmons will also play a key roll on the
Pioneers pitching staff both in the rotation and coming out of
the bullpen. Juan Terrango who has been a large part of
the Pioneer's pitching success over the last few years will be
in charge of mentoring a group of new catchers Kenny Acosta and
Toni Kelly. Word has traveled fast of the talented new group
that will make up the 2010 team. A number of professional scouts
and coaches from various successful four year programs have
expressed intrest in WOSC Players. The Pioneers performed exceptionally well in a recent scout day at fellow Oklahoma J.C.
powerhouse Seminole in front of many major league scouts. The
performance should translate into a good turnout when The
Pioneers travel to Abilene, Texas to take on defending Junior
College National Champions, Howard College on October 16.
Pioneers Finish Record Setting Year
The
Western Oklahoma St. College Pioneers finished the 2009 with a
school record 53-12 record and made their second consecutive
NJCAA Div. II World Series appearance. The team went 1-2 during
their stay in Enid, Oklahoma. The team knocked off 3rd ranked
Des Moines Area C.C. in the opener before a packed David Allen
Memorial Ballpark. In the winner's bracket game the Pioneers
faced the defending National Champions and #1 ranked, LSU-Eunice
and lost. The team would end up being eliminated in the third
game when they took on 2nd ranked Lurleen B. Wallace C.C. out of
Alabama. For complete box scores click on the Schedule link
above. A thank you goes out to all of the fans and sponsors for
their support throughout the 2009 season.
Click on the above picture
for game photos
from the 2009 NJCAA World Series.
Enid Bound!
WOSC Punches Ticket
The
Western Oklahoma Pioneers left no doubt who would be
representing the Plains District in the 2009 NJCAA Div. II World
Series. The Pioneers clobbered St. Louis-Forest Park in the
championship game by a score of 20-6. Western will be making
their second consecutive World Series appearance. 2009 marks the
first time that the tournament will be held at David Allen
Memorial Ballpark in Enid, Oklahoma after being previously held
at USA Stadium in Millington, Tennessee. WOSC jumped ahead with
2 runs in the first inning and never relinquished their lead,
building a 17-0 cushion by the 6th inning. Randolph Oduber
continued his torrid hitting pace by going 5 for 6 on the day
with 3 homeruns and 5 RBI's. Oduber now has a national leading
homerun total of 32. Thomas McAlpine hit a grand slam and
finished with a season high 6 RBI's. Jose Carlos Thompson added
a pair of homeruns and knocked in 4 RBI's. In all the Pioneers
hit 7 homeruns on the day. Western sent seven pitchers to the
mound during the game, throwing 8 shutout innings. Dillon Wilson
picked up the win by throwing a pair of scoreless innings to
improve to 3-0 on the season. The team will open up World Series
play on Saturday, May 23rd under the lights of David Allen
Memorial Ballpark at 7:30pm. They will take on 3rd ranked Des
Moines Area Community College.
Castro Signs With World Champs
Former
Western Oklahoma St. standout Angel Castro has signed a minor
league contract with the defending World Series Champion
Philadelphia Phillies. Castro, who starred for the Pioneers in
2006, reached as high as Double-A with the Detroit Tigers during
the 2008 season. After pitching in the high level Dominican
Winter League he was signed and placed on the Triple-A roster of
the Chicago Cubs. After his release from the Cubs, Castro joined
the Lincoln Saltdogs of the American Association under Manager
Marty Scott. Castro appeared in two spring training games for
Lincoln this year, pitching a scoreless inning each time. The
Phillies plan to send Castro to their extended spring training
for a few weeks, before assigning him to a minor-league
affiliate.
Pioneers Defend Home Turf
The
Western Oklahoma St. Pioneers won their first two games at the
Plains District Tournament. The team won their opener versus
Brown Mackie (KS) by a score of 12-0 on Jeremy Penn's complete
game, no hitter with 12 strikeouts. In the second game of the
day the Pioneers downed St. Louis-Forest Park (MO) by a score of
11-7. Western must win one game on Friday to earn their second
straight NJCAA World Series berth. Thomas McAlpine continued his
tear by going 4 for 4 in the first game with 2 doubles. Five out
of the nine hitters in the lineup would go on to collect multi
hits. The offense stayed hot in their game versus Forest Park.
McAlpine would go 4 for 5 with 3 RBI's. Randolph Oduber hit his
29th homerun of the season while going 3 for 5. Jose Carlos
Thompson added 3 hits, including 3 doubles. Newt Compton, Luis
Uribe, and Danny Almonte all homered in the win. Dimitri
Camareno picked up his 11th victory before Jamaine Cotton would
come to close the final two innings. WOSC and Forest Park will
play again on Friday at 12:00pm at Kiwanis Park to determine the
Plains District Championship.
Western Moves One Step Closer to World Series
The
5th ranked Western Oklahoma St. baseball team claimed their
second straight Region II Championship in dominating fashion.
The team throttled 9th ranked Northern Oklahoma-Enid in the
championship game by a score of 16-3. The Pioneers opened the
tournament versus Redlands Community College. The team won by a
score of 10-2 in a run rule shortened game. Jose Cuevas was 3
for 3 with 3 doubles and 2 RBI's. Five different Pioneers had a
multi-hit game as the team hit 3 homeruns. Dimitri Camareno
improved to 10-3 with a complete game effort. The semifinal game
was a matchup of top 10 nationally ranked as Western took on NOC-Enid.
The Pioneers run ruled the Jets 12-0 on the heels of Danny
Almonte's 1 hit shutout with 6 strikeouts. Tournament MVP Thomas
McAlpine went 3 for 3 with a homerun and 4 RBI's. Jose Thompson
was 2 for 3 with a double and a homerun. The same two teams met
in the championship game. The 16-3 victory marks the third
Regional Championship in school history and second in a row.
Jamaine Cotton earned the win to move to 10-3 on the year by
throwing 6 1/3 innings. Jose Thompson was 5 for 6 in the title
game with a pair of a doubles and a stolen base. Randolph Oduber
, Luis Uribe, and Bryce Miller all had 3 hits a piece during the
game. In their two games versus the Jets, the Pioneers outscored
them by a combined score of 28-3. The team will be back in
action on Thursday when they host the Plains District
Tournament. Also participating will be Brown-Mackie (KS) and
St.Louis-Forest Park (MO). The winner will advance to the NJCAA
Div.II World Series in Enid, OK to be held at David Allen
Memorial Ballpark on May 23-29.
Baez, Rhoades Reunite in Norman
After
helping Western Oklahoma St. to their first NJCAA World Series
berth in school history, Wilsisky Baez and Levi Rhoades made
their way to two of the nation's most touted programs. Baez,
from Dedham, Massachusetts, decided to attend Wichita St.
University after posting a season in which he was named a 2008
NJCAA Div. II 2nd Team All American. After starting at the
Catcher position for the Pioneers he has made the transition as
the starting Second baseman for the Shockers. Sentinel, Oklahoma
native Levi Rhoades fulfilled a life long dream when he decided
to attend the University of Oklahoma. He is a member of a OU
team that is currently ranked #13 in NCAA Div. I baseball. The
two reunited in a non-conference game on April 22nd on the
campus of OU. The Sooners came away with a 8-1 victory in front
of 1,900 fans. The entire 2009 WOSC baseball team was able to
make the trip to show their support for the former Pioneers.
Baez was the bright spot for the Wichita State offense. The team
only mustered four hits but it was Baez hitting in the leadoff
spot that accounted for two of those hits.
Follow the Pioneers Live
On The Internet
R.C. Babione, the "Voice of Pioneer Baseball"
will bring you all the action as your Pioneers
continue their quest for the 2009 National Championship.
Click on the KQ106 logo below for live feed.
Follow the directions listed on link to connect.
