Stanley’s Stance No. 10

June 5, 2000

Journal Entry No. 10June 5, 2000 – Clemson, S.C.

Omaha Bound!!!

Hey Tiger fans! I would like to say hello to all the fans down in Columbia. It feels so good to be speaking with you, knowing that the Tigers have advanced to the College World Series.

I would like to thank our coaching staff and all the players for their dedication and hard work! Omaha would have never possible without such a strong commitment from the players and coaches alike.

I would like to thank our fans, who showed up for the weekend in record fashion, setting a new attendance record on Friday night, only to break that record a night later.

I would like to congratulate Mississippi State on a fine season,as well as their fans who supported their team tremendously. I feel extra excited for the seniors, who will be able to leave Clemson saying they played in the College World Series. The many countless days at practice and in the weight room have payed off.

I couldn’t have written a better ending to my last game at Clemson, to win at home and go 3 for 3 at the plate was something that I will never forget.

Once again our bullpen came through in the biggest way. Steve Reba was solid in relief of Scott Berney. Reba surrendered one run in four and two thirds innings to pick up the 9-4 victory. Nick Glaser pitched the last three innings to pick up his fifteenth save of the season. The Tigers collected double digits hits once again, paced by 3 hits from Brian Ellis and myself, and two hits by Casey Stone. Victory could not have been any sweeter.

The team took Sunday off to relax and enjoy Saturday’s win. We just finished practice today. We were not able to practice on the game field, because of morning showers, but we hit in the cages and the infielders and pitchers worked out on the back field.

Our next goal is to finish the season with a national title. I feel like celebrating one more time before my career here at Clemson is over. We feel confident in our ability and are very capable of winning a title.

San Jose State will be a great challenge. Every game and every aspect of each game counts at this point in the season. We will be as hungry and as motivated as ever, when we take the field this weekend.

Since I know most of you will not be able to make the trip, I hope you will follow your favorite team on television or by radio. It will be a tremendous experience! We will practice tomorrow and leave at noon on Wednesday. Congratulates to everyone associated with Clemson, and we will see you in Omaha!! Talk to you soon!