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      <title>Going Yard</title>
      <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/</link>
      <description></description>
      <language>en-us</language>
      <copyright>Copyright 2008</copyright>
      <lastBuildDate>Mon, 25 Jun 2007 17:59:35 -0500</lastBuildDate>
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      <docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs> 

            <item>
         <title>Heading Home</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>As The Doors once sang, "This is the end." Then again, they also once sang, "If you whip the horses eyes, you can make them sleep, and cry" so maybe we won't take Jim Morrison's word for it. Either way, it is indeed the final day of Going Yard.</p>

<p>The tents along the street in front of Rosenblatt Stadium have all packed up and gone (save for one local outfit, The Dugout, which is keeping things running at least through the end of today). The parking lot, once bustling with activity, is mostly empty. Even the seemingly perpetual line for milkshakes at Zesto's has dwindled to a few random customers.</p>

<p>Strange as it is for us to witness the aftermath, it's probably even stranger for the folks of Omaha, who go through this every year. One minute the city is the center of the college baseball universe, and the next it is 50 weeks away from experiencing that rush again.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
THE MORNING AFTER<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062507_omahawrapup.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/062507_omahawrapup.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062507_omahawrapup.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>As for us, it's time to go home.</p>

<p>This, of course, is assuming we remember where home is. It's been a long (and of course sometimes strange) trip that took us from coast to coast and everywhere from the tiniest of baseball backwoods to the biggest stage college ball has to offer.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/tent.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Worst. Circus. Ever. </div>

<p>We managed to dodge most fast food along the way, preferring instead to somehow find every International House of Pancakes in the United States. We managed to limit our hot dog intake despite being in a different ballpark every day. We even managed to get laundry done when we needed to.</p>

<p>The one thing we never managed to do was get tired of being on the road.</p>

<p>Somehow, despite the three months away from home, we had a great time, and therefore a hard time believing it was over when the Beavers got the final out the other night.</p>

<p>To avoid repeating what Matt said yesterday, I'll simply say that he said it all. We're rounding third, and the coach is waving us home. Who knew Going Yard could be so much fun?</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/ihop.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
See ya around! </div>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/heading_home.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/heading_home.html</guid>
         <category></category>
         <pubDate>Mon, 25 Jun 2007 17:59:35 -0500</pubDate>
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            <item>
         <title>Still Ballin&apos;</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>We really couldn't believe it. When we pulled up to Rosenblatt Stadium this evening, we realized that this could be the last game of Going Yard. If North Carolina didn't pull their heads out of their collective you-know-whats, this would be the last game of our journey. This was game No. 80, and it had the chance to be our last.</p>

<p>We've been preparing ourselves for this for the past couple of weeks, constantly reflecting on some of the highlights of the trip while recognizing the impending finish. It seemed fitting that North Carolina, the team we first visited back on March 30, was one of the last two teams left standing. It also seemed fitting that Marcus Ginyard, a forward on the UNC basketball team, could be mentioned in the blog for both our first and last game. If nothing else, we'd have even more symmetry.</p>

<p>I realize Ginyard might seem a little random, but he's a big supporter of Tar Heel baseball. He was in attendance on that fateful Friday in March against Wake Forest, and Evan remarked in our first blog post that "you can't spell Going Yard without G-I-N-Y-A-R-D." Low and behold, he was in the park again tonight, making the trek from Chapel Hill to Omaha to cheer on his schoolmates in the College World Series Finals.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
GOING GINYARD<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062407_ginyard.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/062407_ginyard.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062407_ginyard.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>After UNC righthander Luke Putkonen retired the side in order in the top of the first inning and the Tar Heels put their first three runners on base (while pushing across a run), it looked like this wouldn't be our last game after all. But the clutch hitting that has evaded the Tar Heels for much of the CWS continued to do so, and they squandered a chance to take control of the game by only scoring once in that frame.</p>

<p>As is their custom, Oregon State capitalized in the second with a two-run homer from shortstop Darwin Barney. For the third time this CWS the UNC starting pitcher could not get out of the second inning, and Putkonen gave way to closer Andrew Carignan with the bases loaded and two outs with the Tar Heels trailing 3-1.</p>

<p>Using Carignan so early is unconventional, but it seemed like a wise choice. UNC coach Mike Fox could not let this game get out of hand, so he knew he needed his best reliever to stabilize things and Carignan did so by getting out of the jam. It harkened back to the days of Goose Gossage and Mike Marshall, when closers were capable of throwing more than an inning, and were often used in (gasp!) non-save situations.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/uncpainted.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Puddy"target=blank>David Puddy </a>would be proud. </div>

<p>The Heels put two more runners on in the sixth with the red-hot Dustin Ackley at the plate and trailing 5-3. Even though Ackley hit the ball on the nose, it went straight to left fielder John Wallace and the threat was over. At that point, the Tar Heels were 2-for-18 with runners in scoring position during the Finals, and it was too much to recover from.</p>

<p>The Beavers put up two more runs in the top of the seventh, and nine outs (and two more runs) later they were national champions for the second straight year. And after 87 days on the road, we had seen our last game. A champion had finally been crowned, and Beaver Nation was ready to party.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
BONKERS FOR BEAVERS<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062407_beavers.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/062407_beavers.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062407_beavers.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>We didn't get a chance to watch the Beavers during the regular season, but we read about their struggles during conference play. Having watched them five times in Omaha, it is hard to believe they had a losing record in the Pac-10. There was no question that they were the best team in Omaha, and deserving champions. For every botched opportunity by their opposition, there were the Beavers properly executing a relay from the outfield, or hitting through the hole on a hit-and-run. </p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/lissmanhug.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
The thrill of victory . . .</div>

<p>Oregon State becomes the first team to repeat since LSU in 1996-97, and they have firmly established themselves as a dominant force in college baseball. After three straight trips to Omaha, some might start to wonder what the "O" in OSU stands for. As Mitch Canham said in his follow-up to "O-State Ballaz," they still ballin'.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/uncagony.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
. . . And the agony of defeat. </div>

<p>The thing that strikes me most about OSU is that roughly 90 percent of their core guys are from Oregon and Washington. One would expect coach Pat Casey to have to dip into California's talent pool to put together such a run, but center fielder Chris Hopkins is their only regular from the Golden State.</p>

<p>You want further evidence that OSU is a consummate team? How about the fact that they went 5-0 in the CWS even though reliever Eddie Kunz, their highest drafted player at 42nd overall, pitched just 1/3 of an inning.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/teamphoto.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
We're confused, are you No. 1, or are you No. 2? </div>

<p>As hard as it is to believe, North Carolina's loss means that the ACC is still without a CWS title since Wake Forest in 1955. </p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/caseydoused.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
The head Beaver gets wet. </div>

<p>We'll be back tomorrow with some feel for what Omaha is like the day after the CWS, but we'll finish our road trip having witnessed 80 games in 87 days. There were 945 runs scored, which were powered by a total of 149 home runs, 1,623 hits and 133 stolen bases. Though you might think otherwise because of the record 53 hit batsmen during the CWS, college pitchers do have some control. There were 1,054 strikeouts on our trip, to go with <em>just</em> 536 walks.</p>

<p>As this will be my last blog post (if you knew Evan, you'd know it is appropriate he gets the last word), I wanted to thank everyone for following along on our journey with us. It was some of the most fun I've ever had in my life, and I hope that came across in our product. I'm a self-described baseball junkie, but even I was a little concerned that I might get burned out after so many games in so little time. Fortunately, that never happened. In fact, I am now a college baseball fan for life. If I'm not here covering this next year, you'll find me in the left-field bleachers letting the world know just how much right field sucks.</p>

<p>I feel a bit like I am writing an Oscar acceptance speech, but there are too many people to thank for making Going Yard such a success. Obviously, I appreciate Evan for taking this journey with me, and for tolerating my random neuroses. But what made this trip so special were the players and fans. We were embraced pretty much everywhere we went, and it would not have been the same if not for the willingness of our subjects to open up show us what makes college baseball so great.</p>

<p>From the Rebels to the 'Eaters, Rowdy Knights to the Bleacher Creatures, you made Going Yard live up to its name.</p>

<p>Alright, enough with corny stuff.  Thanks again for reading and watching, I'm ready to relax a little now that I have some free time. Therefore, to the girl in the Cardinals cap from the video we made at Ole Miss: If you're reading this, drop me a line. </p>

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<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/fivewithtrophy.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
<a href="http://ostateballaz.com/"target=blank>O-State Ballaz</a>, they still ballin'. </div>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_9.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_9.html</guid>
         <category></category>
         <pubDate>Sun, 24 Jun 2007 17:59:01 -0500</pubDate>
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         <title>Beaver (Domi)nation</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>For the first time in 34 years, the College World Series Finals feature a rematch. And there was plenty of anticipation around Rosenblatt Stadium for the North Carolina vs. Oregon State battle.</p>

<p>It's been interesting all throughout the CWS to see the mixture of fans from each team, along with lots of other teams that didn't even make it to Omaha. So today it was a bit of a shift to see so many folks clad in gear pledging their allegiances to either the Heels or Beavers.</p>

<p>But obviously, the final weekend of the CWS has an influx of fans from both sides who couldn't make it out to the start of the series yet still wanted to support their school. And what better way to get a sense of how cool the rematch factor is than by talking to some of the more intense fans from both sides. Especially if you're holding a video camera.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
RIVALRY RENEWED<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062307_rematch.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/062307_rematch.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062307_rematch.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>The pitching matchup allowed us to have a little language-related fun that we enjoy largely thanks to our friend Aaron Fitt, Baseball America's college guru who we mentioned a few days ago.</p>

<p>Fitt has always had a habit of translating names from Spanish to English if they are easily translatable (Classic examples: Antonio Banderas becomes Tony Flags and Jose Mesa becomes Joe Table). Today's matchup allowed us to do one in each direction, as North Carolina freshman starter Alex White became Alejandro Blanco and Oregon State starter Jorge Reyes became George Kings. </p>

<p>Ta da! (And yes, before you ask, we know we are idiots.)</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/leaveit.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
What, no love for Wally? </div>

<p>The most indelible moment from last year's College World Series Finals was the fielding mishap involving UNC second baseman Bryan Steed and first basemen (though catcher by trade) Tim Federowicz. Well, the fielding didn't get much better for the Tar Heels this time around.</p>

<p>Already trailing 6-3 in the seventh inning, UNC reliever Tyler Trice fielded a would-be sacrifice bunt and looked back the runner at second before throwing to first too late to get Chris Hopkins. On the next play, OSU's Joey Wong (who shares a name with a <a href="http://imdb.com/name/nm0939153/" target=blank>female Taiwanese film star</a>) bunted the ball right to Trice, who sailed his throw into right field allowing two runs to score to make it 8-3.</p>

<p>Trice walked the next batter, and then his night was done. With the Tar Heels' bats back in the slumber mode that plagued them before their games against Rice, those were two runs UNC couldn't afford to give up.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/band.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
You must take the 'A' Train, to get to Rosenblatt Stadium up in Omaha. </div>

<p>By the time the carnage was complete, Oregon State had handed UNC an 11-4 thumping to kick off the series. </p>

<p>Of course, there were some random bits of good news for North Carolina. First, they tied a CWS record (and set a CWS Finals record) with five double plays in the game. Second, they seem to play better when facing elimination, so they can always hope to bounce back tomorrow.</p>

<p>But that can't compare with the feeling the Beavers have: They're only 27 outs away from repeating as national champions.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_8.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_8.html</guid>
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         <pubDate>Sat, 23 Jun 2007 17:58:31 -0500</pubDate>
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            <item>
         <title>Handing Out the Hardware</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>There were no games today at the College World Series, as Oregon State and North Carolina prepared for their showdown in the finals that begin on Saturday. With a little down time, we figured it would be the perfect opportunity to check out some of Omaha's most legendary locales not named Rosenblatt.</p>

<p>When it comes to food, Omaha is most known for its steaks, however, the goodies don't stop there. A stone's throw from the Rosenblatt parking lot is Zesto's, a hamburger establishment that also specializes in milkshakes. It's a staple of Omaha, and quite possibly the most popular snack spot during the CWS. Even North Carolina basketball coach Roy Williams said Zaesto's has the best milkshakes he's ever had.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
SNACK ATTACK<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062207_zesto.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/062207_zesto.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062207_zesto.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>A little further south on 10th Street is the Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo. You probably recognize the giant Desert Dome because it is visible on television beyond the right-field stands. That's just one exhibit, and the zoo provided us with close to three hours of entertainment. If you ever make it out to Omaha, it's definitely worth an afternoon of your time.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/gorilla.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Even gorillas do calisthenics. </div>

<p>Because it was an off day, we figured this would be the perfect time to unveil the All-Going Yard team. We presented an early-season follow list, but now it's time to give you the team. Remember, this team is not about your performance on the field. A spot on this team means you distinguished yourself when the bright lights of our HandiCam were focused on you.</p>

<p><strong>Catcher-Mitch Canham (Oregon State)</strong> This spot was wide open until we got to Omaha.  Then we got the rap stylings of OSU's backstop. I've even found myself singing the chorus of "O-State Ballaz" to myself ever since.</p>

<p><strong>First Base-Brandon Reichert (Florida State)</strong> In our first Tour de Handshakes in Tallahassee, Reichert led us through some of FSU's most outrageous shakes. He even mixed in some self-deprecating wit.</p>

<p><strong>Second Base-Nick Crawford (Millsapes)</strong> The NCAA record-holder for hit by pitches took us through the finer points of taking one for the team. He even traded "Happy Gilmore" references with us.</p>

<p><strong>Shortstop-Chris Cates (Louisville)</strong> The shortest player in Division I showed us the literal meaning of shortstop. His teammates call the 5-foot-3 Cates "Wee Man," but he plays much bigger than that.</p>

<p><strong>Third Baseman-Chris Phethean (Savannah State) </strong>Phethean earned his spot on day four of Going Yard when he gave us the first of two silly dances we caught on camera. That alone was enough to earn him a spot.</p>

<p><strong>Outfield-Ollie Linton (UC Irvine)</strong> This was one of the easiest choices for us. No one appeared in more of our videos than Linton (three), and he stole the show in pretty much every one. Even before he impersonated Stephen A. Smith and asked the Anteaters what their profession is, he locked up his spot in late April when he showed us his amazing Mortal Combat handshake.</p>

<p><strong>Outfield-Aaron Ivey (Oklahoma)</strong> Ivey is thinking of walking on the Oklahoma football team now that his baseball eligibility is complete. We wanted to see if he still had the goods on the gridiron, and he was kind enough to run some pass patterns for us while we tried to cover him. Let it be known that when I was covering him, the pass was incomplete.</p>

<p><strong>Outfield-Tommy Lentz (Winthrop)</strong> We had never heard of Korean Rock, Paper, Scissors before hanging out in the Wintrhip dugout. Once Lentz gave us a demonstration and explained why he is such a dominant force, he pretty much locked up his spot.</p>

<p><strong>Designated Hitter-The Whammer (UC Irvine)</strong> His name is actually Zach Robinson, but it might as well be "The Whammer," because that is how he is known to pretty much everyone. Irvine's dugout captain is a riot, and his explanation of Irvine's dugout rituals clinched his spot. Yes, the same explanation that ESPN ripped off ten days later during the CWS.</p>

<p><strong>Utility-JoJo Tann (Ole Miss)</strong>With the exception of possibly Linton, this guy was the biggest no-brainer on the squad. His tour of the Ole Miss bus was one of the more memorable moments of our trip.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/doctort.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
We pity the fool that does not pursue a post-graduate education.</div>

<p><strong>Pitcher-David Price (Vanderbilt)</strong> The best pitcher in college baseball (and the No. 1 pick in the MLB draft) let us hang out with him and his family at a postgame cook-out. He was so laid back, you'd never know he was such a star. On top of that, when we saw him in Omaha we discovered he had been keeping up with our trip pretty much the entire time. If you're a fan of us, we're a fan of you.</p>

<p><strong>Pitcher-Will Kline (Ole Miss)</strong> Kline gave us the catch phrase of the trip, one that highlighted our ride on the Ole Miss bus and provided a perfect ending for our music video. "Online, offline, landline . . . bring it . . . We'll play at your place."</p>

<p><strong>Pitcher-B.J. Hagen (Charlotte)</strong> Baseball players play some dumb games to pass the time during rain delays. But none is more juvenile and entertaining than "Flips." Hagen was kind enough to take us through the ins and outs of Charlotte's favorite time waster.</p>

<p><strong>Pitcher-Ben Jones (Azusa Pacific)</strong> As we explained earlier for Phethean, doing dumb dances will earn you a spot on the team. Jones gets special points because, out of nowhere, he said to us, "You guys want to see a dance?" It wasn't used in our Azusa Pacific video, but we kept it on hold for our music video. He is the guy doing the Elaine Benes-style boogy after the first chorus of the Going Yard video.</p>

<p><strong>Pitcher-Bo O'Dell (Florida State)</strong> The guy does a mean impression of Chewbacca. That's all there is to it.</p>

<p><strong>Coach-Rich Hill (San Diego)</strong> Every team needs a coach, and any coach willing to take us surfing can coach our team any time. This probably won't take away the sting of getting bounced during regionals, but we hope it helps.</p>

<p>There you have it. The few, the proud, the All-Going Yard team. Congratulations gentleman.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_7.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_7.html</guid>
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         <pubDate>Fri, 22 Jun 2007 17:57:54 -0500</pubDate>
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         <title>Single Showdown</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>For the first time during this College World Series, we had a day with only one game. And it couldn't have been bigger, with North Carolina playing Rice for the right to take on Oregon State in the CWS Finals (formerly known as the Championship Series).</p>

<p>The 6 p.m. start without an afternoon game left fans plenty of time to tailgate in the parking lot beforehand. And that meant a rowdy bunch for my two favorite random things about the CWS.</p>

<p>The first is the way the crowd boos the poor ball girls when they can't catch a foul ball as it rolls off the netting behind home plate. Without fail, if the ball makes it to the ground, a cacophony of boos tumble down upon these young ladies, who seem to take the tradition in stride.</p>

<p>The second is the rivalry between the bleachers in left field and those in right. To get a better idea of what we're talking about, check out today's video.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
BLEACHER BATTLE<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062107_omaha.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/062107_omaha.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062107_omaha.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>All silliness aside, the 22,344 fans on hand -- a record for Session 11 -- couldn't have asked for a better matchup in this elimination game.</p>

<p>For a team that seemed to have a problem hitting home runs, the Tar Heels sure remembered how to do it in this do-or-die game.</p>

<p>Freshman Dustin Ackley, who broke out of a slump by homering the previous day against Rice, opened the scoring with a solo shot in the second. After Rice bounced back for a pair of runs, fellow frosh Tim Fedroff hit an opposite-field two-run shot in the third to give Carolina the lead back, 3-2.</p>

<p>UNC center fielder Seth Williams hit another solo homer in the fourth for a 4-2 Carolina lead, and shortstop Josh Horton followed suit with an absolute monster shot in the fifth to right-center field.</p>

<p>That's right, Carolina hit a home run in four straight innings. </p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/dualfan.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
This guy's got all his bases covered. </div>

<p>The Heels also got six innings of three-hit pitching from sophomore Adam Warren who left with a 7-2 lead. But there was still some drama to be had as UNC reliever Rob Wooten, who was appearing in his 11th straight game, surrendered a pair of runs to the Owls in the seventh forcing UNC coach Mike Fox to go to his closer, Andrew Carignan to finish that inning.</p>

<p>And even as all the excitement was going on, the crazy bleacher fans were still feeling pretty lighthearted. Before the ninth inning, they let a beach ball fall on to the warning track. But just as a stadium employee was about to snatch it up after running all the way out there, the fans yanked it back into the seats thanks to some string.</p>

<p>The employee, however, proved two could play at that game. When the ball came over again moments later along with the string, he grabbed it and pretended like he was going to throw it back to the fans . . . but held on to the string, psyching them out and then deflating the ball.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/tvguys.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Uh, fellas. Game's happening live about 50 feet behind you. </div>

<p>Oh, and as far as the end of the game, Fox left Carignan in for the ninth -- making it an extra-long appearance for the closer -- and the righty delivered, retiring three Owls in a row to send Carolina to the Finals with a 7-4 victory.</p>

<p>Warren improved to 12-0 with the win, which is the best undefeated mark in school history, and trumps the previous record of 11-0 set by the immortal <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/b/bankhsc01.shtml"target=blank>Scott Bankhead</a> in 1984.</p>

<p>The UNC victory means we get a rematch of last year's Championship Series -- um, we mean Finals . . . the NCAA just sprung this change on us today, so it's tough to remember -- as the Heels take on the Beavers over the weekend. It's the first rematch in the finals since 1973, when USC defeated Arizona State for the second straight year. We can't wait.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_6.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_6.html</guid>
         <category></category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 21 Jun 2007 17:57:19 -0500</pubDate>
      </item>
            <item>
         <title>Beavers Can&apos;t Be Eaten</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Over the course of our trip we have spent plenty of time examining the family aspect of college baseball. We talked to some Nebraska mothers on Mother's Day, toured Jordy Mercer's parent's RV at Oklahoma State, and sat with Matt Gorgen as he watched his twin brother Scott pitch for UC Irvine. Until tonight, the family dynamic we had explored had exclusively revolved around the players.</p>

<p>You often hear coaches speak of their wives as unsung heroes, selfless partners who will sacrifice for the good of their husband's coaching career. Therefore, we figured it would be interesting to see the game through the eyes of a coach's wife. After enduring a string of agonizing Irvine postseason games, who better to assist us than Tracy Serrano, the wife of Irvine coach Dave Serrano.</p>

<p>Since defeating Wake Forest in the first game of their regional, the Anteaters have had nothing but Maalox-requiring marathons that would test the patience of even the most casual fan. You'd think that Tracy would be used to this by now. Think again.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
THE BETTER HALF<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062007_serrano.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/062007_serrano.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062007_serrano.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>Like any intense fan, Tracy also has her own superstitions. She wore one outfit when Irvine won their first regional game, and she has since worn either the pants, tank top or shirt from that outfit to every game since. She tried a new shirt for Irvine's first CWS game against Arizona State, but when they lost she decided she would never wear it again.</p>

<p>"Cute shirt," she said. "I might wear it at home to work out some time. But it will not be on this body during the College World Series."</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/serranos.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Tracy Serrano and the Serrano boys after Tuesday's win against Arizona State. </div>

<p>It was another tough night for Tracy because she had to sit through Irvine's third-straight elimination game. While Tracy might have been a wreck, the Anteaters seemed loose as ever. As we've learned over the course of this trip, it's just how they roll. Plus, they've become the fan favorites here, and they get autograph requests and praise wherever they go. As they walked into the park today, there were even a number of fans chanting, "Ollie, Ollie, Ollie" in honor of Ollie Linton, Tuesday night's hero. As further proof of their relaxed attitude, Linton once again led the team in a pregame skit that has become a staple of their preparation ritual.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
AROUND THE HORN<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062007_skit.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/062007_skit.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/062007_skit.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>Today's matchups provided an interesting contrast. In the early game we had Rice and North Carolina, the two teams that basically choked away the 2006 College World Series. I realize "choke" is a harsh word, but let's be honest. Rice got shutout in back-to-back game by an Oregon State club with depleted pitching when one win would have put them in the title series. North Carolina made it to the title series,  but blew a five-run lead in game two, and made a costly error in the eighth inning of game three that gave OSU the title.</p>

<p>In the second game we had Irvine and OSU, two teams that have proven they can execute when it matters. Irvine's biggest advantage in their previous two games was their ability to stay cool when things got hot, but OSU is the one team left with a more impressive resume in that regard.</p>

<p>Rice got waxed by UNC by a score of 6-1, and they now run the risk of being eliminated out of the winner's bracket with two straight losses for the second straight year. While I am sure they will downplay the significance of this, you can't convince me they aren't thinking about it.</p>

<p>It was good to see UNC righthander Robert Woodard rebound from an awful start in their opener against Mississippi State to help keep the Tar Heels alive. Woodard holds the school record for wins, and it would have been a shame for such a great career to end on such a sour note. The senior allowed only a run on five hits in 6 2/3 innings of works before Rob Wooten and Andrew Carigan combined to finish the job. UNC even rediscovered the ability to hit home runs, with first baseman Dustin Ackley slugging the team's first of the CWS. </p>

<p>The Heels and Owls will now play once more on Thursday night with the winner advancing to the title series.</p>

<p>Rosenblatt was packed once again to watch Irvine in the night game, and not just because it was the 'Eaters against the Beavers. As mentioned earlier, they are now the darlings of the CWS and the 29,921 in attendance were hoping to see a little more 'Eaters magic. It seemed appropriate that OSU were their opponents because the Beavers were the lovable underdogs here in 2005, but now that they been to Omaha three years running, they have surrendered that status. </p>

<p>Unfortunately for those looking for some more theatrics from Irvine, they just didn't have any more tricks in the bag. A two-out throwing error by third baseman Tyler Vaughn allowed the first Beaver run to score in the third inning, and OSU catcher/rapper Mitch Canham compounded the error with a two-run home run that gave the Beavers a 3-0 lead they would never relinquish in waltzing to a 7-1 win.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/oface.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Evan shows off his "O" face. </div>

<p>It was definitely odd to see the 'Eaters get sent home because it was also an indicator that our journey was coming to an end as well.  <a href="http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/04/29/"target=blank>We first met up with the 'Eaters on April 29 </a>when they showed us their zany batting cage race and handshakes. They provided us with great fodder for the blog and video, so we thought they were awesome. At the same time, we figured they were just a fun team that we would never hear from again. </p>

<p>In fact, after they defeated Wichita State to advance to the CWS, freshman pitcher Cory Hamilton said to me, "I bet when you were hanging out with us in our dugout back in Irvine you never thought you'd see us in Omaha." He was right.</p>

<p>I know that as a sports writer I am not supposed to have a rooting interest, but after spending so much time with the Anteaters this postseason, it became almost impossible not to root for them. There, I said it. </p>

<p>A large part of the nature of this trip is to bring out the fun side of college baseball, the atmosphere that makes it special. We had a ball goofing off with a number of players on a number of teams, but there was not another team that seemed to have as much fun as Irvine. Since our goal is to bring you the lighter side of the sport, they were our dream team because they provided us with a seemingly endless supply of amusing video footage and blog material. On top of that, they were a joy to watch on the field and were involved with what were the four most exciting games I've seen thus far on this journey. Therefore, I'd like to thank Irvine for help making this trip so much fun for us, and for those who have been following the blog. It's been a pleasure.</p>

<p>I'm sure they are disappointed, but it was definitely a fantastic season for Irvine. One that put them on the map as another West Coast baseball force. If nothing else, they should take solace in the fact that they knocked off Texas, Wichita State, Fullerton and Arizona State. That's pretty much a "who's who" of traditional college baseball powers.</p>

<p>As for the Beavers, they deserve all the credit in the world. They are in great position to win their second-straight title, which would make them the first repeat champions in the CWS since LSU in 1996-97. I don't think there was anyone in the world who ever thought OSU would be mentioned in the same breath as LSU in reference to college baseball.</p>

<p>We're down to three, and all of them were in the CWS last year. There definitely seems to be something to this whole, "first time teams can't win in Omaha thing."</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_5.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_5.html</guid>
         <category></category>
         <pubDate>Wed, 20 Jun 2007 17:56:42 -0500</pubDate>
      </item>
            <item>
         <title>Flamingo-ing Yard</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Just when you think the Anteaters can't make their games any more exciting, they go ahead and prove you wrong. And when you think they're surely finished, ready to get bounced out of the College World Series and sent home, well you're wrong again.</p>

<p>There were times when it seemed likely that Irvine was surely headed to a little something called the "flamingo funeral." What's that, you ask? Well, the following video should explain. And then we'll take you through the days action, which went from a nice, brisk start to a nail-biting doozy of a finish.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
FOR THE BIRDS<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061907_flamingo.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/061907_flamingo.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061907_flamingo.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>Louisville's Logan Johnson tied a College World Series record with four home runs when he hit a solo shot to put Louisville up 1-0 on North Carolina in the first inning of the first game. But the offensive slugfest many expected (even though the Tar Heels hadn't been hitting well at all here) didn't materialize. Unlike Carolina's first two starters in the CWS, Luke Putkonen was able to stay in the game longer than a couple of innings, and he held the Cardinals to three hits in seven innings of work.</p>

<p>The Louisville pitching wasn't bad either. If not for a throwing error by UL third baseman Chris Dominguez in the second inning, this game could have been knotted at 1-1 the whole way. Instead, the Tar Heels survived with a 3-1 victory.</p>

<p>And that led us to one of the more interesting traditions we've discovered here at the College World Series. In the parking lot outside Rosenblatt Stadium, there is a group of fans that for the last several years has set up a tent where they not only hang out but also display eight plastic pink flamingos -- one for each team in the CWS.</p>

<p>As the eliminations begin, they hold "funerals" for each team's flamingo when the team gets bounced. So after the Tar Heels' victory, we went over to watch them say a short eulogy before putting a black bag over the head of the Louisville flamingo.</p>

<p>The ceremony occurs 30 minutes after each elimination game and draws quite a crowd. It's gotten to the point where Omaha police will put a cone out in the road to block traffic from coming through during the short ceremony.</p>

<p>They even put a little flamingo in the top of the cone, so there's no mistaking what the hold-up is.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/mattleg.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Matt does his best <a href="http://www.sitcomsonline.com/videoclips/threescompanyuncut-1.mpg" target=blank>Priscilla Barnes impersonation</a>. </div>

<p>When we returned to the stadium, we were worried we'd encountered some sort of time vortex. But it turned out there wasn't any great disturbance in the space-time continuum, Arizona State had just decided to wear their 1981 uniforms for their game against UC Irvine.</p>

<p>Maybe the Sun Devils were hoping that inflation from 1981 runs to 2007 runs would account for a better showing on the scoreboard, but they found themselves in a dogfight with the Anteaters (regardless of neither mascot being of the canine persuasion). </p>

<p>Perhaps the funniest moment from this game came when ASU shortstop Andrew Romine lined a hard foul ball into the seats behind the UCI dugout twice in a row, prompting the 'Eaters fans to stand up and start waving a white handkerchief in surrender to Romine. He made sure not to hit them again but grounded out on the next pitch to drive in the tying run in the top of the seventh inning.</p>

<p>Things got even less funny for Irvine when a ground ball rolled underneath the glove of second baseman Cody Cipriano (though it was ruled a hit) and Arizona State took a 4-3 lead. The Sun Devils tacked on three more runs in the top of the eighth for a 7-3 lead, but if there's one thing the Anteaters have proven this CWS, it's that they're never quite dead.</p>

<p>So it was no surprise when they loaded the bases in the bottom of the eighth with nobody out. Then ASU's Jason Jarvis hit UCI's Ben Orloff to make it 7-4 and tie the CWS record for hit batsmen with 36 overall (which was then broken when ASU's Rocky Laguna got plunked to lead off the 10th). Irvine accounted for 11 of those hit batsmen.</p>

<p>Cipriano followed with an RBI single to make it 7-5. Matt Morris doubled home two runs next to tie the game, but third-base coach Greg Bergeron held up the next runner, Cipriano, at third. Literally. Cipriano appeared to grab Bergeron (or vice versa) as the coach tried to get him back to third, leading the umpire to call the batter out automatically. And yes, this really happened. It would come back to haunt Irvine after an intentional walk set up an inning-ending double play. A two-out threat in the bottom of the ninth also produced nothing for the 'Eaters.</p>

<p>But watching this team battle has been amazing. When Irvine escaped a bases-loaded jam with a double play in the 10th, there was plenty of audible marveling going on in the press box. It's sort of like you can't actually believe your own eyes when Irvine appears to be completely done for and then somehow scrapes through.</p>

<p>Baseball America's Aaron Fitt best summed things up when the Anteaters loaded the bases in the 10th by noting, "This game is <i>nuts</i>!" He's not the best color man in the league for nothing, folks.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/ucibelieve.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Easiest eye chart ever. </div>

<p>You could sense the weird underdog voodoo in the air with that bases-loaded situation, so it almost wasn't a surprise when Ollie Linton singled through the right side on a 2-2 pitch to drive home Morris to give Irvine the 8-7 win and a date with Oregon State.</p>

<p>After the game, the Irvine faithful hadn't left their seats except to move down toward the field and were sharing hugs with the players along the wall. There wasn't a guy more popular than Linton as everyone in Eater Nation celebrated. Coach Serrano's wife, Tracy, was so flabbergasted by the win it was as if she had been up with us in the press box, incredulous at yet another Irvine victory. </p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/hugitout.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Let's hug it out. </div>

<p>She also had to talk her way onto the field after the game since she didn't have a pass. Well, I said, you could have showed them your wedding ring. But she wasn't wearing that, either. So why did security eventually give in and let her on the field with her sons?</p>

<p>"I guess they thought I was a crazy lady and they should just let me go," Tracy said. I told her not to worry, that's how Matt and I usually get past security, too.</p>

<p>As the madness died down on the field, it would soon be time for another flamingo funeral in the parking lot, but not for the bird belonging to the Cinderella-story Anteaters. As we bid farewell to Arizona State and Louisville, here's a little bonus video of a happier time for one of the losing teams: Cardinals pitcher Gavin Logsdon playing the spoons.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
SPOON MAN<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061907_spoons.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/061907_spoons.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061907_spoons.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_4.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_4.html</guid>
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         <pubDate>Tue, 19 Jun 2007 17:55:51 -0500</pubDate>
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            <item>
         <title>Best of Both Worlds</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Spend a few days in Omaha during the College World Series and you quickly realize why it's considered such a great event. Most people rave about the atmosphere, but I feel like that short-changes the fantastic product on the field. Lucky for us, we got a first-hand look at some of that unique atmosphere to go with some outrageously good baseball in the same day.</p>

<p>Before arriving in Omaha, each team gets assigned a service club as a host group, and that group is responsible for setting up their accommodations as well as arranging for some off-day activities. These activities vary from group to group, but the team that gets the 55th Wing at Offutt Air Force Base as their host is privy to a unique treat.</p>

<p>This year, that team is Louisville, and they got a tour of Offutt Air Force Base that included a turn on a flight simulator for each player. After seeing them try their hand at the simulator, I'm pretty sure this is one breed of cardinal that is probably better off grounded.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
CARDINALS TAKE FLIGHT<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061807_louisville.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/061807_louisville1.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061807_louisville.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>Though the simulator was the highlight of the morning, we also got to take a tour of an Air Force cargo plane while also getting a brief history of the historic base. Offutt used to be the home of Strategic Air Command, which was the branch of the Air Force responsible for combating the Cold War. From February 1961 until July 1990, Strategic Air Command always had a crew airborne aboard a  EC-135 aircraft 24-hours a day in case of nuclear attack. Don't worry, it was not the same crew, they rotated. Offutt was also where President Bush conducted a major strategy session on September 11, 2001.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/cardplane.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
A word to the wise: Do not get on a plane if any of these guys are flying it. </div>

<p>While getting the real history was cool, I had to delve into more pressing issues as well. We asked San Diego coach/surf-maven Rich Hill if surfers like "Point Break," so I felt compelled to ask Tech. Sgt. A.J. Bosker (our host) if members of the Air Force think "Top Gun" is a good movie. Though he never revealed his feelings towards the film, Bosker informed us that the movie had been originally pitched to the Air Force, but they decided it would cost too much time and money to support. The Navy jumped at the chance, and instead of focusing on the Air Force's RED FLAG program at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, the movie instead portrayed the Navy's TOPGUN program in Miramar, Calif. As far as bad movie decisions of the 1980s, I'd say the Air Force declining that opportunity ranks right up with Scott Baio and Matthew Modine turning down the role of Maverick in "Top Gun." Seriously, they really did.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/golfsign.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Are plastic "L's" really that hard to come by? </div>

<p>After hanging at the Air Force Base, we hustled back to Rosenblatt for today's games. In the opener, we were treated to the most compelling contest of the tournament thus far between Big West rivals Cal State Fullerton and UC Irvine. Well, it was compelling in that Irvine rallied three times to tie it, it went into extra innings, and because it was an elimination game for both teams. On the flip side, one could also argue that it was excruciating, because of all the pitching changes, mound conferences and disputed calls. Having endured two snoozers on Sunday, I'm planted firmly on the side of compelling.</p>

<p>The most notable story line within this game revolved around the head coaches. Before taking the job as the Anteaters' head coach, Dave Serrano served as pitching coach at Fullerton under George Horton. I'm not sure if it is a direct homage, but Serrano even wears a pen tucked under his cap just like Horton. If I didn't know better, I'd say they had plans for mini-golf after the game.</p>

<p>As it turned out, Obi-Wan defeated  Yoda 5-4 in the longest game in CWS history. The five-hour, 40-minute affair will go down a CWS classic even though innings 10 through 13 were relatively mundane.</p>

<p>Things picked up in the bottom of the 13th when Taylor Holiday got hit by a pitch to lead off the frame for the 'Eaters. He didn't make much of an effort to get out of the way, and Horton was ejected for arguing as such. It was one of eight hit batsmen in the game, another CWS record. Holiday certainly did his part, reaching base three times via the plunk. In the postgame press conference, Holiday essentially admitted that he tried to get hit in the 13th. While I respect the honesty, I can't imagine the umps will be giving him the benefit of the doubt the next time he gets nicked this week.</p>

<p>With runners on first and second and one out, left fielder Matt Morris singled to his counterpart in left, Josh Fellhauer. Holiday never hesitated from second, but was thrown out by an absolute laser from  Fellhauer. It takes a lot to get a roar from the press box, and that throw did it. </p>

<p>Fullerton thought they had life again, but it didn't last long because Bryan Peterson singled to center to score Cody Cipriano to end the game. Peterson eliminated Wichita State with a walk-off double in the Super Regional, so this was his second walk-off hit of the the postseason. This name probably won't go over as well in pro ball, but I'm dubbing Peterson "Mr. June" for now.</p>

<p>We ran into Cipriano in the elevator after the game and asked him if he had ever seen a throw as good as Fellhauer's.</p>

<p>"He nailed me at home on pretty much the same throw earlier in the year," he said. "So it was deja vu all over again. I had to pee for like the last seven innings, so after I scored I had to sprint back to the bathroom."</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/planetoilet.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Luckily for Cipriano, he didn't have the use the kind of toilet they have on Air Force cargo planes. </div>

<p>Special mention must also go to Dylan Axelrod, who earned the win by striking out seven in 4 2/3 innings of relief.</p>

<p>The nightcap involved far less drama, with Oregon State hammered Arizona State 12-6 in our second conference showdown of the day. After beating Irvine on Saturday, the Sun Devils looked like the class of the "West Coast" bracket. Now they'll have to beat the 'Eaters again on Tuesday just to stay alive. As we saw today, Irvine won't be going down easy.</p>

<p>Even though the night game was less than stellar, it was still a memorable day because we got another glimpse of what makes the CWS special on and off the field. It was the best of both worlds.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_3.html</link>
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         <pubDate>Mon, 18 Jun 2007 17:55:15 -0500</pubDate>
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            <item>
         <title>I Love It When You Call Me Big Poppa</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>A little more than a month ago, we were at Nebraska talking with some of the Cornhuskers' moms about how nice it was for them to get to watch their sons play on Mother's Day.</p>

<p>Well, sorry moms, but a bunch of dads got an even better treat: Watching their sons play in the College World Series on Father's Day. And even with the pressure of elimination facing the first two teams of the day -- Louisville and Mississippi State -- it sounded like the players still remembered to give a card or at least a phone call to Dad before the game. </p>

<p>Obviously, these proud baseball dads couldn't have asked for a better present than being in Omaha.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
WHO'S YOUR DADDY?<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061707_dads.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/061707_dads.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061707_dads.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>The wind was blowing out hard, and the Cardinals didn't waste any time taking advantage of it. A pair of early home runs -- both of which landed approximately somewhere in South Dakota -- helped Louisville take a quick 3-0 lead on Mississippi State.</p>

<p>In the third, Louisville's Isaiah Howes blasted a ball over the center fielder's head for a two-run double to make it 5-0. Then first baseman Daniel Burton hit another bomb in the fourth, a three-run shot that made it 8-0.</p>

<p>The Bulldogs eventually put up three runs of their own, but L'ville wasn't done bashing. Third baseman Chris Dominguez (whose dad was fired up to be here) cranked a two-run homer to left field (his second of the game) that almost hit the scoreboard behind the bleachers. In the end, the Cardinals came away with a 12-4 win as MSU became the first team to bow out of the 2007 CWS.</p>

<p>There was a ton of anticipation for the nightcap, which featured North Carolina and Rice. Rosenblatt Stadium was absolutely packed, and the Tar Heels' fan contingent included UNC basketball coach Roy Williams, who made the trip to Omaha last year as well. We caught up with him before the game for a couple of minutes to talk baseball and milkshakes.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
OL' ROY IN OMAHA<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061707_roy.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/061707_roy.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061707_roy.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>Unfortunately for Ol' Roy and the rest of the Tar Heel faithful, there wasn't a whole lot to cheer about. For the second straight game in the CWS, Carolina's starter didn't make it out of the second inning, as the Owls hung six runs on freshman Alex White.</p>

<p>And it only got worse from there. Carolina's propensity for falling behind early and then charging back for the victory was only halfway complete tonight. The Heels gave up the runs but never made the comeback. In fact, UNC set a CWS record by using eight pitchers in the game, the last of which was catcher Tim Federowicz, who also pitches part-time (and gave up a two-run homer in the ninth). </p>

<p>Needless to say, the game didn't have much drama, and Rice walked away with a 14-4 win.</p>

<p>On this Father's Day, there was not much question in either game who was who's daddy.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/owlmaha.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
The city sure felt like it belonged to Rice tonight. </div>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_2.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_2.html</guid>
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         <pubDate>Sun, 17 Jun 2007 17:54:39 -0500</pubDate>
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            <item>
         <title>Bash of the Titans</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>As Coolio once so eloquently put it, "Ain't no party like a West Coast party cause a West Coast party don't stop." Day two at the College World Series was all about the West Coast. We had UC-Irvine against Arizona State in the opener, and Cal State Fullerton versus Oregon State at night. Yes, Arizona State is not actually on the coast, but we'll count them because they play in the Pac-10.</p>

<p>Beyond great college baseball, the West Coast is also known for its rap music. Though I'm more Biggie than Tupac, I'll always respect the sounds that came from out west. Oregon State catcher Mitch Canham has more than just a respect.</p>

<p>A supplemental first-round pick by the Padres in the recent MLB draft, Canham has been composing rhymes for the last couple of years. His anthem, "O-State Ballaz" described the Beavers march to the title in 2006, and he has updated the song for 2007. As you can imagine, we made a point to get this on camera. Canham was a little hesitant, but he kindly gave us a sample. If you like what you hear, you can get some more of Canham's flow at <a href="http://ostateballaz.com/"target=blank>www.ostateballaz.com</a>.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
IT'S A RAP<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061607_ballaz.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/061607_ballaz.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061607_ballaz.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>I had been wanting to get Canham's rap on video for a couple of weeks, so it was very satisfying when we actually made it happen. We couldn't rest on our laurels, however, because we had a major mission for today, and that was to investigate Titan House.</p>

<p>Before we could do that, we watched Arizona State nip Irvine in the opener by a score of 5-4. Before the game I caught up with Matt Gorgen, the twin brother of Irvine starter Scott Gorgen, <a href="http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/060907_irvine.asx"target=blank>who we featured on video last week</a>. Matt was scheduled to pitch for a team in the Cape Cod League this summer, but he asked the team if he could delay his arrival to watch his brother pitch in the CWS. The team said if he went to Omaha instead of reporting to the Cape, he would lose his spot on the team. As you would expect from any devoted brother, Matt told the team he was going to Omaha. He said the team has released him, but he remains optimistic he will find another team to pitch for on the Cape this summer. </p>

<p>Scott wasn't as sharp as he was last week against Wichita State, and he allowed three home runs in taking the loss for the Anteaters. Once that game was over, we finally go to see what Titan House is all about.</p>

<p>Titan House is a tradition that began back in 2003, and it is a house across the street from Rosenblatt that is rented by the Cal State Fullerton alumni association as a social spot for Titan fans. The idea was born back in 2001 when Tulane fans, who were partying in a private tent, started giving Fullerton a hard time for not having their own space. Because Fullerton was such a regular visitor to Omaha, they decided they needed to have a spot for their fans to kick back when the Titans were not playing.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/titanhousesign.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Count the rings. </div>

<p>Carlos Leija, Fullerton's executive director of alumni relations, told us that they originally rented one house for two years, but have settled in at 3464 S. 13th St. The school has a standing agreement with the owners of the house that the owners will vacate every time the Titans advance to the CWS for as long as the Titans remain alive. No matter how long the Titans last, the rent is $7,000.</p>

<p>The alumni associate gets $2,500 from the school as seed money, but almost everything else is paid for by donations from fans in attendance. Leija estimated that roughly 250 fans will come through in a given day, but the Titans don't discriminate. There were a number of Arizona State fans partaking in some adult beverages sponsored by the Titans, and UCI coach Dave Serrano's father was there as well. Serrano used to coach at Fullerton, so it's not such a big surprise.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/ventura.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Even Robin Ventura hangs out at Titan House. </div>

<p>Leija could hardly contain himself as he described the scene at Titan House in 2004 after the Titans won the title. He organized for a giant speaker system to be installed, and he had "We Are the Champions" blaring as the team paraded the CWS trophy onto the back lawn.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/titanhouseyard.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
It's true, ain't no party like a West Coast party. </div>

<p>For the most part, the fans we spoke to were shocked that the Titans even made it to Omaha. This isn't a vintage Fullerton team as far as the masses are concerned, but they might as well enjoy it while they are here.</p>

<p>We even found two Fullerton alums, Dave and Mike, in town for Mike's bachelor party. I had told someone just the other day that I thought the CWS was a great spot for a bachelor party (yes, I'm a baseball nerd), and these guys are one step ahead of me.</p>

<p>Unfortunately, most of their buddies balked at the idea of five days in Omaha for a bachelor party, but Mike's fiancee loved it.</p>

<p>"I told her I wanted to go watch baseball in Omaha for my bachelor party," Mike said. "And she was like, 'Sounds great!' "</p>

<p>I am guessing he would not have gotten the same reaction had he suggested Las Vegas. But as evidenced by Dave's shirt seen below, Omaha apparently has the same motto as Las Vegas.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/omahat.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Don't worry, your secret is safe with us. </div>

<p>One aspect of West Coast baseball that surprised us on this trip was the fact that they don't get much fan support during the regular season, at least not when compared to their counterparts in the SEC, ACC and Big 12. Titan House, however, can go toe-to-toe with any other shrine to college baseball that we've seen.</p>

<p>On the field, however, things did not go as well for the Titans tonight. They trailed the Beavers 3-2 with two outs in the ninth when third baseman Evan McArthur skied a pop-up to left field. Clearly dejected, McArthur moped to first base thinking the Titans had lost. But the ball got caught up in the wind, and OSU left fielder John Wallace could not make the play. I'm sure McCarthur feels terrible about this, and he will be lambasted elsewhere as well, but he should have been on second base when the ball dropped, but he didn't run. This error was compounded when pinch-hitter Jon Wilhite subsequently singled to right, which would have scored McCarthur had he run out his fly ball. Joel Weeks grounded out to shortstop to end the game, and the Titans lost 3-2.</p>

<p>It was a tough one to swallow for the Fullerton faithful, but I doubt that will stop the revelry at Titan house.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series_1.html</link>
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         <pubDate>Sat, 16 Jun 2007 17:53:55 -0500</pubDate>
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         <title>And . . . Action!</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>The first day of College World Series play was finally here Friday, and it certainly got off to a wild start.</p>

<p>A little after 1 p.m., Rice's starting pitcher, Ryan Berry, threw the first pitch of the 2007 College World Series. Unfortunately for Berry, that pitch hit Louisville leadoff man Boomer Whiting, who stole 73 bases this year. Whiting never got a chance to steal a base because when he finally did take off two batters later, Berry hit Daniel Burton with a pitch.</p>

<p>All in all, it was a tough outing for Berry, who gave up five runs before being yanked in the third inning.</p>

<p>But it wasn't just him. The Louisville bats were red-hot, most notably that of second baseman Logan Johnson, who gave the Cards a 10-4 lead in the fifth inning when he hit his second home run of the game, a two-run shot.</p>

<p>Rice was hardly ready to fold its tent, though. The Owls stormed back to score the next 10 runs and finally took the lead with a five-run eighth inning. Suddenly, Louisville's upset bid turned into a 15-10 Rice victory.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/blattsunset.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Somewhere, Norman Rockwell is smiling. </div>

<p>The night game featured North Carolina against Mississippi State, and one noticeable thing missing from the scene was the Bulldogs usually ubiquitous cowbells. But in postseason play, the NCAA mandates that the cowbells are a no-go, much to the dismay of pretty much all of the MSU fans.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
NEEDS MORE COWBELL<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061507_MSU.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/061507_MSU.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061507_MSU.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>Cowbells aside, things certainly went MSU's way to start the night game. The Bulldogs jumped all over UNC starter Robert Woodard -- the school's career wins leader --  and ran him off with a four-run second inning.</p>

<p>But after that, it was a lot like the first game of the day in that the favored team came roaring back on offense. For the Tar Heels, it was a six-run sixth inning that gave them a sudden 8-4 lead. North Carolina gave up just one run after the first four surrendered by Woodard, and All-America closer Andrew Carignan slammed the door on MSU in the ninth to preserve the Tar Heels' 8-5 victory.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/fingerpaint.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
These Tar Heel fans give new meaning to the phrase "hand-painted." </div>

<p>Before we got to the game action, we attended the ceremony where the <a href="http://www.dickhowsertrophy.com/" target=blank>Dick Howser Trophy</a> was awarded to Vanderbilt pitcher David Price.</p>

<p>Price was obviously disappointed not to be in Omaha as a participant in the CWS but had no problem flashing a smile or two as Vandy coach Tim Corbin heaped praise on the lefty at the podium. Corbin also told a funny story about getting a 2 a.m. phone call from Price and freaking out that something was wrong. Instead, Price was just calling to talk about a Red Sox game, knowing Corbin was a Boston fan. </p>

<p>"Is that it?" Corbin asked him.</p>

<p>"Why, you sleeping?" Price replied.</p>

<p>Corbin said he was, and Price responded by saying, "Soft" and hanging up on his coach.</p>

<p>Corbin's wife Maggie, who was in attendance for today's ceremony, asked her husband what was going on. "Just Price calling to tell me I'm soft," he told her.</p>

<p>Obviously, that story drew quite a bit of laughter from the media contingent on hand. But Price's sense of humor isn't our favorite thing about him. It's the fact that since we hung out with him in late April, he has been following the Going Yard trip. When I told him this afternoon about <a href="http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/13/" target=blank>the music video</a>, he said he had already seen it. When a guy has time to be the No. 1 overall pick in the MLB draft, win a slew of college awards and still check in with our blog, that's dedication.</p>

<p>And if it's good enough for Price, it's good enough for you, so we'll see you back here tomorrow for day two of CWS action.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/pricehowser.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
D. Price: Going Yard junkie, major award winner. </div>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/college_world_series.html</link>
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         <pubDate>Fri, 15 Jun 2007 17:53:10 -0500</pubDate>
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         <title>Not Your Average Practice</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>After more than 10 weeks on the road and more than 11,000 miles in the car (not to mention a few thousand more miles in the air), we are finally here. The Road to Omaha has come to an end, and there were actual College World Series events going on inside Rosenblatt Stadium.</p>

<p>Games were not being played yet, but it was practice day, and each team had an hour on the field to get the lay of the land. There were also autograph sessions and some press conferences. Super Bowl has its media day, and this is college baseball's version.</p>

<p>The best thing about today is that everyone is in a good mood. All eight teams are still getting over the fact they made it here, and you can't find a single player without a giant grin on his face. The players are treated like rock stars, and you can tell they are reveling in the attention and excitement surrounding their every move. You've got fans lining up by the hundreds for autographs, and those that aren't in line are mobbing the players as they enter and leave the field.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
OPENING DAY<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061407_practice.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/061407_practice.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061407_practice.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>The bedlam isn't new to all the athletes though. Arizona State outfielder Mike Jones also plays football for the Sun Devils, and he said he's been counseling some teammates on how to handle the hordes.</p>

<p>"I'm kind of used to it, but a lot of guys are like, 'What do I do? What do I do?' " Jones said. "You just relax, smile, sign autographs and take pictures. Have fun with it."</p>

<p>It's advice that pretty much all of his teammates and opponents were taking to heart. Autograph sessions were only scheduled for 30 minutes, but each team stayed at least twice that long and many fans had to be turned away. These players have to eat some time. </p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/msuautographs.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
It's a race to see who can go longest without getting carpal tunnel. </div>

<p>It's hard to tell which team was getting the most love, but it seems like UC Irvine is piquing the fans' interest. It kind of reminds me of the phenomenon surrounding Oregon State when they made their first trip to Omaha in 2005 in that they are a team from the West Coast with a funky nickname and without much history. They aren't bringing nearly as many fans as some of the bigger schools, but the demand for Anteater autographs was on par with any other team. That demand has spread beyond the field as well. Right fielder Brian Peterson told us that a waitress asked him to autograph his menu the other night at  dinner. As far as I see it, the 'Eaters are the new Beavers.</p>

<p>We've spent a lot of time with the 'Eaters, so it's good to see them getting so much love because they've earned it. Apparently they've also been noticing the fact that we've spent a lot of time with them. When he saw us on the field, Peterson said, "If I didn't know better, I'd think you guys were stalking us." Right, cause we're not . . . </p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/catcher2b.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Always practice safe second base. </div>

<p>I'd always heard about how great the College World Series is as an event, and I began to see why today. Practice day allowed the fans such great access to the players, and vice versa. Most of these players will never play in the major leagues, and for them this is as good as it gets. It's easy to see why.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/murph.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
<a href="http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/060607_louisville.asx"target=blank>Chris Cates</a>, you have some competition. </div>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>Thu, 14 Jun 2007 17:52:46 -0500</pubDate>
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         <title>Video Killed the Radio Star</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Today was our last big drive: The (literal) Road to Omaha. We figured when it was over, our poor, tired rental car would thank us. But it had other ideas. </p>

<p>Much like the lovable movie character that dies unexpectedly (think Curly in "City Slickers") our car was dead this morning, when we were just a scant 200 miles or so from our months-long destination. Luckily we were able to get a jump from some fellow hotel patrons, and we were off again, and the rental car got to Omaha (which it deserved to do after all it's been through).</p>

<p>Speaking of getting to Omaha, it's time to unveil the video for the official Going Yard song, which we promised would be up to coincide with our arrival (and if you're interested, here's the site with <a href="http://www.musicbydrake.com" target=blank>the rest of my music</a> (shameless plug, i know). Without further ado ...</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
G-O-I-N-G Y-A-R-D<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/GYvideo.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/GYvideo.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/GYvideo.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
</div>

<p>But we weren't the only ones arriving in town on Wednesday. So we decided to head to the hotel where North Carolina -- last year's runner up -- would be arriving in the evening.</p>

<p>We weren't the only ones waiting to greet them.</p>

<p>In addition to a team of local little-league Tar Heels, four of the NCAA's eight team ambassadors were on hand to welcome the Tar Heels (one is assigned per team but most of the other teams had already arrived in town by the time UNC got here). </p>

<p>The ambassadors are all college-aged young women who go through a fairly rigorous application and interview process to land the gig. They said more than 60 girls applied for the eight spots, and their duties began as far back as late March, though things obviously picked up a bit more with the CWS finally about to kick off.</p>

<p>When the teams arrive at their respective hotels, the ambassadors main job is to welcome them to Omaha. (Sadly, or perhaps wisely, they do not station cute college girls at the media hotel to greet us upon arrival. Totally unfair, I know.)</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/ambassadors.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Bonnie, Klancy, Elizabeth and Alex, the ambassador crew. </div>

<p>The ambassadors don't even get paid for their work. One of the eight will be awarded a scholarship at the end, but that's it. I smell a reality show!</p>

<p>Like us, the ladies were eager to get the College World Series started. Tomorrow night it all kicks off with the opening ceremony. And as much as we loved all of the places we've been, we can't wait.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/liltarheels.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Honestly, they look bigger on TV. </div>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/tbd_18.html</link>
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         <pubDate>Wed, 13 Jun 2007 17:52:23 -0500</pubDate>
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         <title>Strictly Big League</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>When not fully immersing myself in the world of college baseball, I am typically following the big leagues with the zeal of Peter Gammons. But because we have been so ensconced in the college game, I've definitely lost track of what is going on in MLB. </p>

<p>We got to reconnect with major leaguers today, however, as we stopped in Kansas City on our way from Wichita to Omaha. In another stroke of good luck, the Royals were hosting the Cardinals at Kauffman Stadium. Not only that, but the game featured three players that played in the College World Series, so we figured we would see what some professionals had to say about their time on college baseball's biggest stage. Little did Alex Gordon, David Eckstein and Braden Looper know that we would be coming for them today.</p>

<p>Of the trio, Gordon played in the CWS most recently, helping Nebraska get there in 2005. The Cornhuskers won their opener that year, but they got bounced after losing their next two. The Royals' third baseman is a Nebraska native to boot, so he had all sorts of insight on the Omaha experience, and he was happy to share his thoughts. Looper and Eckstein played in the CWS in 1996 for Wichita State and Florida, respectively, and though their memories weren't as vivid, they still had tales to tell. Looper's team went out in "two-and-'cue" fashion, so his memories weren't quite as glowing. For those not well-versed in the vernacular of Omaha, "two and 'cue" refers to when you lose your first two games, all you have left to do is fire up the grill. Although from what Looper told us, it sounds like he didn't even have time for that.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
OMAHA MEMORIES<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061207_royals.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/061207_royals.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061207_royals.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
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<p>It was also a special reunion for Looper and me, though I doubt he realized it. The first piece I ever wrote for a national publication was about Looper back in 2004. Thought Mets fans might not remember this, Looper was actually dominant for his first two months in New York. Obviously, his career with the Mets did not end as well as it started, but there were some good times.</p>

<p>Our trip to Kauffman Stadium was just half of our big day in the City of Fountains. Before rubbing elbows with some big leaguers, we spent the morning at Chapman Recording Studios. Readers probably don't know this, but Evan writes and performs music in his spare time. He penned a song about our trip, and we put it on "wax" this morning. I can say "we" because I sang back-up vocals. Please keep in mind that I am using the word "sang" very loosely in my case.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/chapman.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
That's us and our producer, Chuck Chapman. He puts his pants on just like the rest of us--one leg at a time. Except, once his pants are on, he makes gold records.</div>

<p>This was the first time inside a music studio for both of us, and we definitely had a lot of fun with it. There were posters on the wall outside the studio recognizing all the big names that have recorded there, and we are now both proud to say that we have recorded in the same studio as Jewel and Luther Campbell.</p>

<p>For those interested in hearing more about the song, it is a chronology of our experiences leading up to Omaha, and we are putting together a music video to go with it. You'll just have to wait until tomorrow to see it. Consider this a teaser. Trust us, it will be worth the wait. I just wish "Downtown" Julie Brown was still on MTV to introduce it for us. Wubba, wubba, wubba.</p>

<p>We're off to Omaha tomorrow morning for the final leg of our trip. I think I speak for Evan when I say we are ecstatic. We have heard so many great things about the Omaha experience, and those were reiterated today by a trio of major leaguers who still reflect fondly on their experience there. It's time to crown a college champion, and eat some steak. Lots and lots of steak.</p>

<div class="photo_pic" align="center">
<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/007.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /> <br/>
Yard. Going Yard. </div>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/big_leaguin_it.html</link>
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         <pubDate>Tue, 12 Jun 2007 17:51:57 -0500</pubDate>
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            <item>
         <title>K.C. at the Bat</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>It's good to be back in the swing of things after my brother's wedding. And it didn't take long after being back for me to find someone with a similarly hectic travel schedule.</p>

<p>Before Matt and I left Wichita for Kansas City (where we'll spend a day or so before heading on to the main event in Omaha), we stopped for a quick breakfast near our hotel. Inside we ran into some parents of players from UC Irvine, which to the College World Series by defeating Wichita State on Sunday. </p>

<p>The parents of Anteaters catcher Aaron Lowenstein might be the only people more travel-stressed than I was. After watching the games in Wichita, they were headed back to Los Angeles by plane on Wednesday before driving to Irvine to move Aaron out of his apartment. Then Dad is headed to Omaha on Thursday, and Mom follows on Friday. </p>

<p>But hey, they didn't have to give a Best Man toast.</p>

<p>Speaking of the Anteaters, they certainly have their share of interesting dugout traditions, which we witnessed first-hand earlier in the season out on the west coast. But let's say you see a shot of the Irvine dugout and can't figure out what the heck they're doing. Well, watch this video and you'll be in the dark no more.</p>

<div class"vidlink" align="center">
DEUCES WILD<br>
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061107_irvine.asx'); void(0);"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/061107_irvine.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br />
<a href="javascript:popVideo('http://mfile.akamai.com/8108/wmv/cstvcbs.download.akamai.com/8108/open/goinyard/061107_irvine.asx'); void(0);">WATCH CLIP<img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/icon_video_black.gif" width="12" height="8" border="0"></a>
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<p>Also, we've seen lots of things on the road to Omaha. Sometimes we even managed to capture them on film. Check 'em out in our latest photo gallery, which has quite a mix of random sights.</p>

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<a href="http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/photogallery"><img src="http://graphics.cstv.com/graphics/goingyard/photogallery/RBIgirls2.jpg" width="305" height="243" border="0" /></a> <br/>
Click the picture for our latest photo gallery. </div>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/kc_at_the_bat.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.cstv.com/goingyard/2007/06/kc_at_the_bat.html</guid>
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         <pubDate>Mon, 11 Jun 2007 17:51:26 -0500</pubDate>
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