Matador baseball is rebuilding. Despite playing 56 games in a season that is three and a half weeks shorter than usual, they are not concerned with other teams in the Big West conference. They are focused on delivering good consistent baseball.

?Acknowledging their constant efforts, coach Steve Rousey hopes to enter the playoffs and ultimately the championship game in Omaha, Neb.

“Everyone is gonna play, we’re gonna be switching it up, it’s a group effort,” said Rousey. “Players are committed to the game, physically and mentally day in and day out. All 33 guys are gonna have to make a contribution. Fans can expect a good product.”

?With the integration of new and experienced players, Rousey is confident they will be in a good position. After a disappointing 3-18 record in Big West last season, an issue this time around is?experience. The young team has performed consistently and he promises fans a good group of guys to get things done.

Knowing who is who in the conference, Rousey is concentrated on his team’s performance.?

“UC Riverside and UC Irvine were in Omaha last year, Cal State Long Beach has a few new players, Cal State Fullerton is a generally good team, and Cal Poly Pomona has some returning pitchers. I don’t think about them,” Rousey said.?

?Among returning players is right hand pitcher junior Jimmy Jolicoeur, senior Philip Hann and center fielder sophomore C.J. Belanger.

“They all had a solid season last year and led the way in offense and defense,” Rousey said.

?Two redshirt-freshmen battling for jobs are outfielder Jeff Pruitt and Todd Eskelin.

With 17 freshmen joining experienced players on the roster, Rousey is excited. If the team can mature as the season progresses he is confident they will be in good shape. He is setting his sights high and will play the season one game at a time to bring Matador baseball to the top. Playing a talented group of quality players, Rousey is excited to?contend for the?Big West Championship.?