Despite inclement weather in parts of the country(which forced the postponement of my beloved Rutgers Scarlet Knights), the 2008 college baseball season got underway today. That means the season debut for some of major college candidates for the #1 draft pick held by the Rays.

First, pitcher Aaron Crow got the start for the Missouri Tigers against the UConn Huskies in the Stetson tournament in DeLand, FL. The right-handed pitched 5 innings, surrendered 1 run on 6 hits, struck out 7 and walked none as the Tigers won 7-1. A solid if unspectacular line for Crow.

Pedro Alvarez, 3B for the Vanderbilt Commodores, went 0-2; he reached on a throwing error in the 1st, struck out in the 3rd, was hit by a pitch in the 5th, and walked in the 7th and 9th. Vandy defeated the Beavers 8-1 with former Rays draft pick Mike Minor(2006, 13th round) turning in an impressive pitching line: 6 innings, 5 hits, 1 run, 0 walks, and 6 strikeouts.

Rain washed out the East Carolina-South Carolina opener, where we'll be keeping an eye on Gamecocks 1B Justin Smoak. The teams play a day-night doubleheader tomorrow.

Lastly, University of San Diego left-hander Brian Matusz is expected to be on the mound tonight as the Toreros take on rival San Diego State. I'll be providing statistics for that start tonight, so continue checking back.