Matt Stiffler is in the midst of his most memorable season as a Bobcat, and it has nothing to do with his current team-record 22-game hitting streak.
Despite recently laying claim to the a record once held by former Bobcat Bryant Witt, the senior maintained that he was happy to still be in the Mid-American Conference race in April for the first time in his career at Ohio.
I've been doing what I need to do to help the team win
Stiffler said. I've been able to keep this hitting streak alive so it's been kind of nice.
The centerfielder downplays the importance of the streak, which began March 2 against Memphis, focusing instead on the difference in this team from previous years. - and the guys this year are so much better coordinated together
Stiffler said. We all work together well and hopefully it continues.
Ohio coach Joe Carbone has noticed significant improvements across the board from Stiffler. -
Carbone said. He's obviously been our most consistent hitter all year.
The Bellbrook, Ohio, native also has seemed to focus more on his power at the plate.
After totaling just three home runs a season ago, Stiffler already has five this season, and he attributes this increase to being less picky at the plate.
I'm not being as selective
Stiffler said. I walked a lot
and I really didn't see much this year. I'm being more of a free swinger this year.
Patience was a quality that defined Stiffler a season ago when he finished second in Ohio history with 45 walks.
Another difference this season is a lack of health concerns. Stiffler was hampered by knee problems for much of last season, and Carbone has noticed how effective he has been without the worries of a nagging injury.
He's gotten a little better at everything he does
Carbone said. He had a little problem with his knee that hampered him a good part of the year
and I think this year he's been healthy.
As the only senior in a young outfield, the 2007 member of the inaugural Rawlings NCAA Division I Gold Glove Team said he takes it upon himself to lead the many freshmen that fill the outfield.
I've taken them under my wing
he said. As a freshman being here at (Ohio)
you can get a lot of interferences
