WEST POINT, N.Y. - Rookie right-handed pitcher Matt Ball was selected as the Patriot League's Rookie of the Week following his effort during Army West Point 10-0 shutout victory over NYIT this past Wednesday. Ball earned the win after holding the Bears to one hit, with a career-high seven strikeouts and two walks in 5.2 innings of work.
The Charlotte, N.C., native came out sharp in the top of the first inning and struck out the side with a 1-2-3 frame. Ball retired the first nine hitters he faced, prior to issuing a leadoff walk in the fourth. He continued to frustrate the NYIT hitters and took a no-hitter into the sixth inning before a bouncing ball to third base broke up the no-hit bid. Frank Sanacore's chopper hit the edge of the infield grass and bounced over third baseman Jake Clark. The ball was fielded by shortstop Alex Jensen, but Sanacore beat out the infield single right before Jensen fired to first. Read More