Jim Schlossnagle heaps praise on Texas A&M pitcher Matt Dillard for performance against Arkansas

Texas A&M’s Jim Schlossnagle was elated with the performance of pitcher Matt Dillard against the Arkansas Razorbacks on Saturday.

Starting this afternoon’s SEC Baseball Tournament Semifinal against Dave Van Horn’s squad, Dillard rose to the occasion. The Aggies flamethrower amassed six strikeouts and only allowed two hits and zero runs over four innings of work, which Schlossnagle credited to Dillard having his change-up working.

“Thought he did a great job. Great job,” explained the Aggies skipper. “Got his change-up going, which is a big pitch against these guys, both left and right. Competed, really happy for him.

“53 pitches, that was beyond more what he’s thrown for us this year. Just trying to stay ahead of it.”

Additionally, Schlossnagle put it all into perspective, elaborating on the fact that Dillard kept playing baseball for a moment like Saturday, and it all came to fruition.

“So happy for him, because he almost gave up baseball. We talked him back into it, and he’s getting to realize a dream, and hopefully there’s more baseball ahead for us,” added Schlossnagle.

If Texas A&M does hold on to their lead over Arkansas, Schlossnagle isn’t going to credit any supernatural forces, as he told SEC Network his stance on superstition during his interview, as well.

“I don’t believe in superstition, I do believe in routine however. Don’t confuse the two,” joked Schlossnagle.

That won’t be a problem, as long as Texas A&M continues winning. Jim Schlossnagle’s team will hope to hold on for Matt Dillard.

Dave Van Horn examines Brady Tygart’s start against Texas A&M, Arkansas’ injury issues

Meanwhile, Dave Van Horn joined the SEC Network crew for a mid-game interview during Arkansas’ SEC Baseball Tournament Semifinal showdown against Texas A&M.

First off, Van Horn was asked about his starting pitcher Brady Tygart’s performance thus far on Saturday. Tygart has allowed one run, but he’s keeping the Razorbacks in it, although he doesn’t have many pitches left in his arm as the bottom of the fourth inning begins.

“It’s a little up and down,” explained Van Horn. “He was a little sharper last weekend. He’s down to his last ten or fifteen pitches, max. So probably won’t get through this inning unless they make contact, but he’s getting there.”

Additionally, Arkansas has dealt with injury issues all season long, and are utilizing their depth in the SEC Baseball Tournament. While Van Horn recognizes the Razorbacks didn’t have any choice, their hard work and determination is paying off at the moment.

“It’s just been that way all year,” answered the Arkansas skipper. “It’s like, they don’t believe just because one guy gets hurt we’re going to struggle, or not be a good team. We’ve just got a lot of good people on this team. They work hard, and when they’ve got their chance, they’ve done a great job.”

Trailing by one run at the moment, Dave Van Horn and Arkansas will be looking for a run and then some to defeat the Aggies. Time will tell if they can do so, but nothing will come easy at the SEC Baseball Tournament.