April 22, 2008

Athens, OH (UWIRE) -- Ohio took four losses to Michigan opponents this past weekend, but Candace Saucedo got her first start of the season in the circle and showed little signs of rust.

The sophomore from Ontario, Calif., tore her anterior cruciate ligament early in the season and hasn't been able to get on the field often since the injury.

Coach Jill Matyuch said she is happy to have Saucedo contributing.

"Candace was always an important part of our pitching staff," Matyuch said. "She did a great job."

Saucedo took the loss Sunday after tossing six and 1/3 innings, allowing 10 hits and three earned runs.

"(My knee) felt great," Saucedo said. "It felt really good. It's been a while since I've really been able to put a whole lot of game time and playing time in there."

Matyuch said that whomever she sends to the circle in upcoming games will depend on the types of opposing hitters, but said she looks forward to having Saucedo start again.

"I know our team has a lot of confidence in Emily (Wethington) and Michelle (Sauter), but having three pitchers as backup is always good," Saucedo said. "I know our team appreciates me coming back."

Far from average

Third baseman Kristen Salvatore's batting average this season is a little deceiving.

The senior ranks last among starters at .196, yet she leads the team in RBIs with 17.

Matyuch said Salvatore's place at third in the lineup behind outfielders Courtney Waters and Shalene Petrich gives her opportunities to bring in runners.

"The people in front of her set the table well," Matyuch said. "With those people in front of her, it definitely gives her the opportunity to play that role."

Salvatore said she likes being in that position and knows when she can help out the team.

"Anything to help our team win," Salvatore said. "It's especially nice when your first and second batters get on. Whatever it takes."

Staying in one place

Despite four losses over the weekend, the Bobcats did not move from their place at fourth in the Mid-American Conference East Division standings.

Ohio's 5-9 conference record (18-19 overall) comes in behind Kent State, Bowling Green and Miami, respectively. Akron is fifth and Buffalo is sixth.

Northern Illinois, Western Michigan, Bowling Green and Toledo are the remaining conference opponents on Ohio's schedule.

(C) 2008 The Post via UWIRE