Joseph Edgecomb / Collegian File Photo

Baseball 2009 Season Opener

No. 16 Fresno State Bulldogs (0-0, 0-0 WAC) vs. Washington Huskies (0-0, 0-0 Pac-10)

Breakdown: Bulldogs

2008 was the greatest year in Fresno State baseball history.

But the 2009 season will be about one thing for the ’Dogs – moving forward.

The Bulldogs will be presented their national championship rings and a banner will be raised Friday night. But after that, it’s back to business.

“It’s going to be good to get rid of the past and turn the page,” outfielder Steve Detwiler said. “I’m ready to just get to 2009 and go.”

No matter how the Bulldogs prepare, Beiden field will be an emotional and loud place tonight.

“It is going to pretty amazing with a bunch of people there,” starting pitcher Holden Sprague said.
“There is always something special about opening day.”

Photo Courtesy of Washington Athletics

Breakdown: Huskies

The Huskies finished last season with a 33-22 record and a disappointing 11-13 record in the Pac-10.
But Washington starts the season with three senior pitchers to lead their rotation.

“The University of Washington has an outstanding pitching staff and closer,” Fresno State coach Mike Batesole said.

The Huskies will try and rely on their strength, but will face a real challenge with Fresno State’s lineup.
If the Huskies can come into Beiden Field and get out to an early lead, the Red Wave crowd should quiet down the stretch on Friday night.

Washington would like nothing more than to give the defending champs their first loss of the season.

THE SERIES’ STARTERS (WITH 2008 STATS)

Photo Courtesy of Fresno State Athletics / Minorwhite Studios

Bulldogs:

’Dogs’ Ace: Holden Sprague RHP – 6-2 record, 55 K, 3.59 ERA

Saturday Starter: Sean Bonesteele RHP – 2-2 record, 10 K, 6.31 ERA

Sunday Starter: Jake Floethe RHP – 1-1 record, 20 K, 8.64 ERA

Huskies:

Huskies’ Ace: RHP Jorden Merry – 8-2 record, 69 K, 3.61 ERA

Saturday Starter: LHP Tyler Cheney – 1-2 record, 19 K, 4.70 ERA

Sunday Starter: RHP Jason Erickson – 3-3 record, 35 K, 3.55 ERA

By Logan Hopkins and George Stepanoff Jr. / The Collegian