BOSTON - Five of the seven America East baseball teams opened the season this past weekend with four teams earning a victory. Maine went on the road and took the first of a three-game set with ACC power Clemson, while Stony Brook upended Dayton and Binghamton topped Houston Baptist. UMBC had the first win in the entire country as the Retrievers took down VMI.
Here are the week one award winners:
Player of the Week
Toby Handley, Stony Brook, Jr., CF, Whitby, Ontario
- Led the conference last week with a .667 on-base percentage, collecting five hits, and five walks in 15 plate appearances.
- Scored six runs, including three in the opening day victory over Dayton.
- Among his five hits were a double and triple. His triple capped Stony Brook's three-run second inning that gave the Seawolves a 3-0 lead at Wofford on Saturday.
- Finished the week with a .500 batting average and an .800 slugging percentage.
Pitcher of the Week
Justin Courtney, Maine, So., RHP, Bangor, Maine
- Pitched five innings and earned a no decision in a 4-3 win against Clemson.
- Did not allow any earned runs and had eight strikeouts to lead the conference in opening week.
- Held Clemson hitters to .150 average.
Rookie of the Week
Danny Casals, Maine, Fr., INF, Miami, Flordia
- Recorded his first career hit for the Black Bears in their 4-3 win against Clemson.
- Hit .333 (4-for-12) with three runs scored.
- Also drew three walks and finished with a .467 on-base percentage.
- Stole one base and scored a pair of runs.