[TonyLima]

Does anyone know why Esquer has seemingly been so loath to play Vincent Martinez, this weekend's series notwithstanding? He was hitting north of .330 for much of last year (or was it actually close to .400?) and then completely disappeared from the lineup, even as a pinch hitter. This year, I believe he started game one and then disappeared again. When he was finally given an opportunity this weekend...well...one is quickly reminded of how sorely we've been missing him. Both from a contact hitter and (especially) power standpoint. I hope that even when Tommy Troy comes of his injury that it's Troy who is used as a pinch hitter. Martinez is leagues ahead of Troy as a hitter.

He disappeared because he stopped hitting altogether!!! He had an opportunity earlier this season, and started on the same path.

Ok, got it. Well, I guess we can safely state one big variable that will determine if Stanford has a long post-season run or not: if we get "good" or "bad" Martinez.

yes, I just hope he can stay on this streak. Not sure why he just stops hitting like he does, but let's hope he stays on it as this lineup needs a boost like he had over the weekend!!!

Another good sign. Jones seems to be getting his stroke back. If he gets to 2/3 of last season, Martinez stays hot, and Montgomery keeps it up, my main concern is pitching.

[TonyLima]

Does anyone know why Esquer has seemingly been so loath to play Vincent Martinez, this weekend's series notwithstanding? He was hitting north of .330 for much of last year (or was it actually close to .400?) and then completely disappeared from the lineup, even as a pinch hitter. This year, I believe he started game one and then disappeared again. When he was finally given an opportunity this weekend...well...one is quickly reminded of how sorely we've been missing him. Both from a contact hitter and (especially) power standpoint. I hope that even when Tommy Troy comes of his injury that it's Troy who is used as a pinch hitter. Martinez is leagues ahead of Troy as a hitter.

He disappeared because he stopped hitting altogether!!! He had an opportunity earlier this season, and started on the same path.

Ok, got it. Well, I guess we can safely state one big variable that will determine if Stanford has a long post-season run or not: if we get "good" or "bad" Martinez.

yes, I just hope he can stay on this streak. Not sure why he just stops hitting like he does, but let's hope he stays on it as this lineup needs a boost like he had over the weekend!!!

Another good sign. Jones seems to be getting his stroke back. If he gets to 2/3 of last season, Martinez stays hot, and Montgomery keeps it up, my main concern is pitching.