Matrix Returning for New Brunswick
July 29, 2011 - Following a runner-up effort in their inaugural 2009 tournament, the Greater Middlesex Matrix from New Brunswick, New Jersey were knocked out in two games in 2010, including a 13-inning elimination game that Altoona won 8-6. The Matrix won play-in series in both 2009 and 2010, but receive a direct bid to Johnstown this year, and will look to rekindle the spark that led them to the championship round two years ago. Here is an official press release from the New Brunswick franchise:
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As the 2011 regular season comes to an end, the New Brunswick once again turns to the Greater Middlesex Matrix ball club to be its representative at the AAABA National Tournament in Johnstown, PA. Unlike in years past, the Matrix have an automatic bid to this years national tournament. This may have caused some complacency early in the season, but as August approaches, the Matrix has heated up. New Brunswick will bring a 16-6 record (league and tournament play) into this years national tournament. The expectations run high this year as this unit looks to erase last year's 0-2 performance and get back to the type of baseball that landed them in the 2009 National Final game.
While the Matrix will sorely miss two of their top outfielders, they will be led by some top level players both on the mound and at the plate starting with CF Steve Talbott (Purdue, 3rd team all Big Ten). Carl Thomore (2nd round, 77th pick Colorado) has signed with the Rockies and Brandon Downes (44th round, Boston) is gone for the University of Virginia. Both are unavailable for this year's club, so Talbott and West Virginia-bound Jon Roszel have been huge additions. On the mound, last years game 1 starter Andy Sullivan (Gloucester CC) and long-time ace Connor Henderson are unavailable, so the Matrix will turn to past experience for pitching, power and defense.
The pitching staff will be led by the team's all-time wins leader Ryan Harvey, who returns after pitching the Matrix into last years tournament with a Game 2 win over Brooklyn Youth Service in the New Brunswick Regional. Harvey played a key role in leading Seton Hall to a Big East Tournament title this spring. He will be joined by starters Kevin Herget (Kean), Ben Musicant (Siena), Alex Taylor (Drew), and St. Peter's ace Zack Hopf. Returning experience from the last two seasons are Nick Marics (Wilmington), Matt Cesare (Middlesex CC) and hard throwing DJ Roche (NJIT) gives back end bullpen support.
The offense will rely on returnees Steve Nappe and Chris Grimes, who are making their third appearance in Flood City. Nappe had a memorable run in 2009 and was crowned RBI champion for his efforts. Cody Pace (Montclair St.) and Scott Kelly (TCNJ) form a fine middle infield and are flanked by Nappe (3b) and Mike Muha (St. Joseph's, Philadelphia). Jorge Rivera (NJCU) has had a fine summer playing all three outfield spots as well. Timmy Kurucz (Bloomsburg) and Jay Stolz (Montclair St.) handle the catching duties.
The coaching staff brings back a wealth of experience to this tournament as well led by Manager Glenn Fredricks (4th trip), Matt Ardizzone (3rd), Nick Cesare (2nd), and first timer Danny Fredricks.