Dave Van Horn talks Michael Turner’s importance after Regional MVP performance

Arkansas catcher Michael Turner has faced more than his fair share of criticism in recent weeks but turned into the hero of the Stillwater Regional, helping the head coach Dave Van Horn’s team advance to the next round wit big plays on offense and defense. The senior Kent State transfer won Regional MVP for his efforts and flipped the script on his doubters.

During the postgame press conference, Dave Van Horn had high praise for Michael Turner and all catchers after advancing to the Super Regional round.

“It’s unbelievable,” said Van Horn. “It’s a tough position back there in the heat – catching, throwing, sweating and grinding, and calling pitches. It can be a little stressful. And then trying to hit, I mean that takes a tough individual to do what he does.

“I have always said this, catching’s the best position on the field. You’re the only one facing the whole field and you’re involved in every play. You’ve got to have special people back there if you’re going to have a good team.”

Criticism of Michael Turner

ESPN Arkansas radio host Derek Ruscin was pulled from the airwaves last week after his rant where Turner was the subject.

“I’ll say it — and I wouldn’t say it about a young player, but Michael Turner is a fifth-year graduate guy from Kent State, he’s a stupid a–,” began Ruscin. “The catcher for the Arkansas Razorbacks. Listen to this guy.”

Then, Ruscin played an answer from a post-game media scrum featuring Turner. Evidently, Ruscin wasn’t thrilled with the answer the Razorbacks catcher came up with.

“First of all, you’re not a Razorback — you’ve been here one (year). You’re a rental player, and you’ve sucked, so thanks for nothing,” stated Ruscin. “Secondly, as a rental player, you do not get to come in here and criticize this fanbase, not a chance. The question was about what’s wrong with the team, and you used the entire answer to take a swing at this fanbase?

“You’re a disgrace, Michael Turner. You’re a disgrace! You should not get to wear that uniform again. What a loser. You know why they’re losing? Because you’re a loser, and you’re the catcher. You’re in-charge of this whole thing on the infield. You’re a loser, and a disgrace, and you can’t get out of this program soon enough.”

After some warranted backlash, Tommy Craft — ESPN Arkansas Market Manager — added that Ruscin will be taking time away from his role.