March 17, 2005

LAWRNECE, Kan. – Looking to extend its four game winning streak and build momentum before entering Big 12 play, the University of Kansas baseball team will host Western Illinois in the final non-conference weekend series of the year as the Jayhawks and Leathernecks square off in a three-game set at Hoglund Ballpark this weekend. <?xml:namespace prefix=”o” ns=”urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office”?>

Kansas enters the weekend with a 17-8 record and is coming off a sweep of North Dakota State last weekend and a victory over Baker on Wednesday. The Baker victory marked the 300th career win at the Division I level for Kansas skipper Ritch Price, who also notched his 700th career victory at all levels in the NDSU series finale.

During the four-game winning streak, the Jayhawks hit .395 as a team and have collected 31 extra-base hits. In addition, the Jayhawks have slammed seven home runs in the four-game run, including three by junior outfielder A.J. Van Slyke, who leads the team with six home runs and 26 RBI on the season.

On the mound, junior pitcher Kodiak Quick picked up a pair of wins in the North Dakota State series to improve his record to 6-1 this season. Senior pitcher Mike Zagurski entered the week leading the Big 12 in strikeouts with 53 K’s in seven starts this season.

The Kansas bullpen has also been impressive this season, led by junior closer Don Czyz. The Overland Park, native, is currently second on the team with a 1.21 ERA and has collected three saves and 28 strikeouts in 12 appearances this season.

The Leathernecks are 4-14 this season and will take on Wichita State on Thursday afternoon before traveling to Lawrence. Entering the WSU game, Western Illinois had dropped 11 straight contests, dating back to Feb. 19, when they defeated Texas Tech 6-1.

Western Illinois (4-14) vs. Kansas (17-8)

Hoglund Ballpark (March 18-20)

*Western Illinois plays Wichita State on Thursday

Site: Hoglund Ballpark (2,500) — Lawrence, Kan.

Game times (CST): Friday (March 18) 3 p.m., Saturday (March 19) 1 p.m. and Sunday (March 20) 1p.m.

Rankings: Both Kansas and Western Illinois enter the series unranked.

Coaches: Kansas head coach Ritch Price is 83-67-1 in his third year at KU and 300-295-1 in his 11th overall year of coaching at the Div. 1 level. WIU’s Stan Hyman is in his 4th season as a head coach of the Leathernecks and has compiled a 70-127 record prior to WIU’s contest with Wichita State on Thursday

Series Information:

vs. WIU — KU leads 6-0

Media Coverage

Audio: None

Gametracker: www.kuathletics.com

Game Day Promotions

Rock Chalk Wristband giveaway / 2 for 1 tickets