Sluggers meet MSU in conference clash

By DAMIAN DOBROSIELSKI
Collegian Sports Writer

On Wednesday, the Penn State baseball team stepped out of the Big Ten, challenging St. Bonaventure to a doubleheader at Beaver Field.

The Nittany Lions disposed of the Bonnies 1-0 in the opening game of the twin bill, but the second game was stopped prematurely because of darkness with the teams tied at seven.

Even though Penn State lodged its ninth victory of the season against its former Atlantic-10 foe, Lion Coach Joe Hindelang was concerned with his team's overall effort against the Bonnies.

"There are some times where you must have tremendous energy, enthusiasm and tremendous intensity," Hindelang said, "and we did not have either. They need to find their own motivation."

The Lions (9-15-1) will try to find that motivation this weekend when they step back into the Big Ten to face Michigan State (10-7, 3-1 Big Ten) at 1 p.m. tomorrow and Sunday in East Lansing in a four-game series.

Penn State outfielder Derek Bochna, who went 4-for-5 against the Bonnies, knows the Lions will be in for a battle against the Spartans.

"We have to play three road weekends in a row," the senior said. "It's all going to be tough. There are no easy teams in the Big Ten."

Michigan State is currently one of the best teams in the conference. Last week, the Spartans went 5-1, sweeping Siena Heights in a doubleheader before capturing three of four games at Indiana.

"We're pleased to win on the road," Michigan State Coach Tom Smith said. "Any time you split or win three of four, you have to consider it a success. We still have plenty to work on to prepare for the challenge of Penn State, but we're at home and ready to play."

Offensively, Michigan State is led by infielder Andy Johnson, who holds a .403 batting average. The Spartans are bolstered by their .321 team batting average.

Defensively, Michigan State has a trio of pitchers, who have already notched two victories. The Spartans' team ERA is .500.