Thursday's FAU Daily Briefing: Owls don't mind Wittels' streak
By Chuck King
It’s easy to think that one of FAU’s main goals during the weekend series against FIU is to end Garrett Wittels’ 45-game hitting streak. It would also be wrong.
Most of the players seem to share FAU coach John McCormack’s view on the topic.
“If we win the game and he gets his hits, it doesn’t matter to me either way,” McCormack said following Tuesday’s washout at UCF. “Our job is to win the game and however that is accomplished is fine. The hitting streak has nothing to do with us. That’s good for him. We recruited him. He’s a nice kid. I’m happy for him.”
Wittels’ 45-game hitting streak is tied for the third longest in college baseball history. Robin Ventura’s 58-game streak in 1987 stands as college baseball’s best. (In his professional career, Ventura allowed Nolan Ryan to get in almost as many hits in one game.)
The record is even more impressive considering Wittels has only batted in 45 games this year. His 78 hits (eight less than Andy Mee) have propelled the sophomore to a .408 average on the season.
“It’s a great streak and he can get three more hits for all I care as long as we win the conference,” Friday’s starting pitcher Ryan Garton said. “He can have the spotlight with the streak, I just want the spotlight by winning the rings.”
If Wittels’ streak lasts through the series he will be alone in second place on the all-time list.
Sunday starter R. J. Alvarez admits he feels a little different than some of his teammates. He wouldn’t mind ending the streak.
“It would be awesome for sure, but hopefully it happens Friday night,” the freshman said. “I’m just going to try to do what I do all the time - try to get him out.”
Owl Links: A guide to what is being written about FAU
The big series is here. If FAU takes two of three from FIU, the Owls are the Sun Belt’s regular season champs. Here’s our look at the series.
Other linkage:
Owl Cal: A calendar of FAU events
Thursday
6:30 p.m. Baseball, FIU at FAU.