Thompson breaks wins record as Muskies sweep Notre Dame

FORT MYERS , FLORIDA, March 6, 2007 - Muskingum College Head Coach Gregg Thompson etched his name in the records book as the all-time career wins leader for the Muskie baseball program following the Muskies' doubleheader sweep of Notre Dame College on March 6. With the pair of victories, Thompson passed his former mentor and late skipper Ron Mazeroski, and now stands at 240 wins in only 12 seasons at the helm of the Black & Magenta. [photo gallery]

"The win was bitter sweet," stated Thompson. "Ron Mazeroski was a mentor for me, and gave me a chance when I was twenty-three years old. I'm sure Coach Mazeroski is looking down on me with a smile on his face."

When asked about the teams response Thompson noted "they have been excited all week about the record, and we are excited about the way it happened, by rallying for the win." Thompson also added that "the record is not only about him, but it's about the players."

Giving Thompson the tie in the record was sophomore pitcher Levi Shaw, who pitched five solid innings. Shaw allowed six runs on nine hits, while striking out two. Sophomore pitcher Kaid Musgrave closed the game out for Shaw to record his first save of the season. Muskingum found themselves down 6-1 heading to the bottom of the fifth inning, but a six run rally followed by a four run eighth inning sealed the win. The offense was paced by sophomore right fielder Adam Smith who went 3-for-5 with a double and three RBIs. Also contributing to the Muskie charge was junior designated hitter Brock Huntsman who went 1-for-2 with two RBIs and freshman catcher Brock Whiteman who drove in two runs.

Gaining the record for Thompson was sophomore pitcher Aubrey Neuhart, who pitched seven strong innings while scattering 10 hits. Closing for Neuhart was freshman pitcher Ryan McCallister who also recorded his first save of the year. The offensive assault was led by a five run surge in the top of the eighth inning that put the Muskies pass Notre Dame to steal the win. Freshman Wes Carder led the team going 2-for-4 with two RBIs in his first start as a Fighting Muskie. Also helping Thompson to his record was Huntsman who batted 1-for-4 with two RBIs and a double.

With the wins, Muskingum improved to 3-1 overall.