The Undertaker and The Clough Factor

THE UNDERTAKER:

RIGHTHANDER Matt Blanchard is the Dons’ closer. In 12 appearances, he has thrown 15.1 innings with a 1.76 ERA and a microscopic .067 opponents’ batting average. His 17 strikeouts lead the team for pitchers who have thrown less than 20 innings. Blanchard’s delivery is comparable to Seattle Mariners’ ace Felix Hernandez.

“Watching videos of him (Hernandez) then seeing myself out here, I see a lot of similarities in the pelvis load, even the landing. He is bent at the front leg in his follow through as well” — Matt Blancard said.

RHP Matt Blanchard:

10.13: Blanchard averages more than 10 strikeouts per nine innings pitched.
2: He shares the team lead in saves with pitcher Garrett Wilson.
3: Opponents mustered three hits in 45 at bats against Blanchard.

THE CLOUGH FACTOR:

LEFTY Bryan Clough is the Dons’ best southpaw. Through nine starts, he has thrown 49.1 innings, with a 3.83 ERA and a record of 4-2. He isn’t an overpowering pitcher. His craftiness is the key to his success. Clough’s delivery and pitching style is comparable to Mark Buehrle of the Miami Marlins.

“It is all about deception and keeping the ball out of the hitter’s sight to make sure they can’t pick it up in the glove.” —Bryan Clough said.

LHP Bryan Clough:

.261: Clough has limited opposing batters to 48 hits in 184 at bats for a .261 BAA.
4: He is second on the team in wins. All nine of his appearances are starts.
21: Clough allowed the fewest earned runs on the team. He’s given up 15 walks.

Other Dons’ Baseball stories for spring 2012:
Dons win five consecutive Pitcher of the Year Awards
Baseball: Scouting report.
Rising phenom: Andy Peterson
Athletic profile: Gary Apelian
Scouting report: Pitching
Diamond Kings of Santa Ana

Other Dons’ Baseball games coverage for Spring 2012:
Game coverage 4/2/2012: Wilson throws 3rd complete game in Dons victory
Game coverage 3/27/2012: Dons escape Hornets’ nest
Game coverage 3/14/2012: Dons overpower Gauchos
Game coverage 3/6/2012: Pirates sink Dons
Game coverage 3/3/2012: Dons sting Hornets
Game coverage 3/1/2012: Tigers pounce early in conference opener
Game coverage 2/25/2012: Seven pitchers combine on three-hitter for Dons’ win
Game coverage 2/24/2012: Dons beat Huskies to mush
Game coverage 2/23/2012: Dons avenge loss in hit parade
Game coverage 2/16/2012: Dons capitalize on Falcon errors
Game coverage 2/11/2012: Doubles allow Dons to tie up Brahmas