Cajuns, Redhawks set pitching rotations for opening weekend

Louisiana's Ragin' Cajuns open the 2011 baseball season this Friday night against the Redhawks of Southeast Missouri State.   Today, Louisiana Head Coach Tony Robichaux and SEMO Head Coach Mark Hogan announced their pitching rotations for the weekend.  Both coaches are entering their 17th seasons at their respective schools.

Statistics below are from the 2010 season

FRIDAY

Louisiana-RHP Joe Zimmerman (1-7, 7.69 at UNO) vs. LHP Jordan Underwood (6-5, 4.11)

Zimmerman's numbers weren't very good at UNO, but Zimmerman's last three starts were excellent, handcuffing the Cajuns for six innings, earning a no decision in a 4-3 win over LSU and a complete game shutout at Rosenblatt Stadium against Creighton.  He's a pitch to contact guy who when he's on, will get some ground balls.  Underwood was second on the squad in innings pitched last season.  Underwood is 6-1, 186 and is billed as a "classic lefty."  Lost an eye when hit by a line drive while in junior college.

SATURDAY

Louisiana--LHP T. J. Geith (6-2, 4.67) vs. RHP Jon Dicus (1-0, 9.00)

Geith is a preseason All-Sun Belt selection after pitching well for the Cajuns down the stretch last season.  Dicus struck out 21 in 30 innings and is billed as an aggressive pitcher.

SUNDAY

Louisiana-RHP Joey Satriano (3-0, 5 saves, 2.66) vs. RHP Brad La Bruyere (0-1 11.30 ERA)

Satriano is making the transition after being the Cajuns late inning relief specialist a year ago.  Satriano has dropped 30 pounds since last season.  La Bruyere did not was a batter in 14.1 innings a season ago.  Three pitch guy who has posted a 5-3 record in three seasons.

All three SEMO starters are seniors.

Hear all three games this weekend on espn1420.com.  Airtimes are 5:30 Friday, 1:30 Saturday and 12:30 Sunday.

(all photos courtesy ragincajuns.com