July 29, 2009

“The Crosby Show”

By Mike Smyth

Crosby Slaught enjoys a good challenge.

Growing up a fan of the Atlanta Braves, Slaught watched Hall of Fame pitchers like Greg Maddux, John Smoltz, and Tom Glavine. He aspired to throw like these greats and command games the way they do.

Coming into his sophomore season, the 6’5” pitcher knew he had a chance to crack the UCI starting rotation. With veterans Daniel Bibona and Christian Bergman anchoring the staff, Slaught was ready to fight for the No. 3 role as the Sunday starter.

He stepped up in a big way for the ‘Eaters in 2009, solidifying one of the best pitching staffs in the nation. Slaught exceeded expectations going 8-0 with a 4.62 ERA.

As the season progressed, Slaught continued to improve with each appearance. In his last three starts, he was at his best, going seven innings twice and dominating the opposing hitters.

“Commanding three pitches was key for me.” Slaught said “Working a lot on my mechanics and trying to solidify them really helped me get batters out and go deep into games.”

Slaught credits the veteran pitchers for his development as well.

“Bibona has helped me a lot this season and last season. I really admire the way he carries himself on the mound, the way he prepares for games, and the way he attacks hitters. I basically try to throw like him.”

Not a bad person to take advice from, as Bibona finished an incredible season going 12-1 and cemented his place as one of the top pitchers in college baseball.

Slaught and the ‘Eaters hosted UCI’s first ever NCAA Regional and in a crucial elimination game against San Diego State, he triumphed, going five plus innings, allowing seven hits and three runs with four walks and four strikeouts to earn the victory.

Improving upon his sophomore success will be a challenge Slaught is sure to welcome.