Friday, March 27, 1998

Bump given award for early-season success

Penn State pitcher Nate Bump has been selected Big Ten Pitcher of the Week. This is the fourth time in his career the senior right-hander has picked up the honor.

Since almost every Big Ten game was canceled last weekend due to inclement weather, nominations were based on pitchers' performances on the season to date.

Sluggers aim high as Big Ten season opens

Bump has gotten off to a quick start this season chalking up 50 strikeouts to go along with a 3-1 record and a Big Ten-leading 1.63 earned run average. Bump has racked up double-digit strikeout totals in his last three outings and has only allowed one earned run in his last 30 innings. He currently has a 12.1 scoreless innings streak.

"Bump is always tough to beat," Indiana coach Bob Morgan said. "He's one of the best pitchers in baseball."

On March 2 Bump was chosen Co-National Player of the Week by Collegiate Baseball for his performance against Winthrop on Feb. 28. In that game Bump shut out the Eagles and came within one out of a complete game. He allowed only three hits while striking out a career-high 14.

-- by Chris Masse