As a season defined by losing streaks and frustration nears its
conclusion, the UCLA baseball team is taking the opportunity to
audition some of its less-heralded players for next year. Pitcher
Brian Schroeder and shortstop Nolan Rouse, two Bruins who played a
complementary role for much of the season, stepped forward last
weekend to help the team capture its first series victory in Pac-10
play against hapless Washington State. “As we’ve come
to the end of the season, certain players are being given the
opportunity to contribute and are making the most of it,”
UCLA coach John Savage said. Schroeder and Rouse aren’t the
only Bruin bench players to take on a larger role recently, but the
two have made the most significant impact. After working out of the
bullpen most of the season, Schroeder got the spot start in the
series finale against Washington State, throwing a complete-game
six-hitter that got the attention of his coaching staff.
“Brian has improved throughout the season,” Savage
said. “Some of the guys in his position can really make a
good impression for the future.” Schroeder, who entered the
game with a 5.30 ERA, allowed just one run against the Cougars,
striking out six without walking a single batter. It was only the
fifth complete game a Bruin pitcher has tossed this year.
“It’s a different mindset when you start, and the
coaches know that,” Schroeder said. “It’s
important to prove to everyone, especially myself, that I can
start.” Schroeder recognizes that the end of the season
presents him and other Bruins (15-37, 4-17 Pac-10) with a
bittersweet opportunity. “Nobody on this team is happy about
the struggles we’ve had this year,” Schroeder said.
“But I am still excited to be given the chance to prove what
I can do on a consistent basis.” Another Bruin who made the
most of his increased playing time is Rouse, who started all three
games over the weekend at shortstop after spending most of the
season as a backup. Rouse collected three hits in six at-bats
against Cougar pitching, raising his batting average to .151 for
the season. “I’m really pleased to see the team grind
it out and finish the season well,” Savage said. “They
could have packed it in earlier in the season, but I’ve seen
our guys not take anything for granted.”
UP NEXT: UCLA will close out its season with a road game tonight
at UC Riverside and a three-game set against Washington at Jackie
Robinson Stadium this weekend.