re: Adam4848 Baseball Preview Feb. 9th (RP)

Starting Pitching
Anthony Ranaudo (So.) *
Austin Ross (So.) *
Daniel Bradshaw (So.) *
Nolan Cain (Sr.) or Chris Matulis (Fr.)

While LSU lost 4 pitchers who started in 08 they do bring back a trio of talented sophomores spearheaded by Anthony Ranaudo the tall and imposing pitcher let alone along with his fastballs that has scouts flocking to Baton Rouge. Ranaudo an 11th round pick by the Rangers in 07 opted to attended LSU with advice by Mainieri and then LSU pitching coach Terry Rooney that he could be turned into a 1st round pick three years later. After having arm soreness and missing the first 6 weeks of his freshman campaign Anthony started his season on a good note and finished where he started logging 13 innings without giving up an earned run. Through fall ball he’s run his fastball up the 96 mph. Austin Ross nicknamed mister reliable gives you confidence every time he steps on the mound that he’ll throw strikes and limit walks. Bradshaw although going through a rough spot in early spring of last year Mainieri removed him from the closer role and his confidence skyrocketed. Hopefully Ross and Bradshaw can build a study 2-3 punch behind Ranaudo. A new and leaner Nolan Cain will likely share duties in the starting role with Chris Matulis 6’6 LHP who is a heralded freshman who was 10-0 with a 0.31 era in his senior season. If these five players can reach their full potential it could be yet another exciting season ending in Omaha. If not the bullpen will be used to full extent every SEC weekend and it will show at the end of the regular season.

Grade: C