Baseball ready for season to begin

FAYETTEVILLE – Major League pitchers and catchers may not report to camp for another two weeks, but the University of Arkansas Razorback Baseball team begins its preparations for the 2009 season on Sunday afternoon as it conducts its first practice of the year. The Hogs are slated to be on the field of Baum Stadium at 1 p.m. for stretching with practice scheduled for 1:30 p.m., weather permitting.

“We are excited to get started,” Arkansas head coach Dave Van Horn said. “We had a good fall and have been looking forward to this ever since.”

The start of practice gives the Razorbacks 19 days to prepare for their first game of the season, a Friday afternoon contest with Washington State at Baum Stadium. Over the course of the nearly three weeks of work the Razorbacks are looking to solidify their lineup and pitching rotation as well as continue to identify the individuals who will be vital to Arkansas’ success.

Also on tap for Coach Van Horn and the Razorback staff is the first Swatter’s Club gathering of the year which is set for Monday at the Clarion Inn in Fayetteville. Lunch begins at 11:30 a.m., followed by a question and answer session with Coach Van Horn.

For more information regarding Razorback baseball or University of Arkansas athletics please visit ArkansasRazorbacks.com.