Two innings, two hits, one run. More importantly, zero pain.
In his much anticipated return, Ohio pitcher Marc Cornell struck out four and walked two batters out of the bullpen last night in the Bobcats' 7-1 win against Xavier at Bob Wren Stadium.
Cornell, recovering from an off-season arm surgery, made his first appearance for Ohio (7-17) since facing four hitters in one inning of work on February 22. Lauded as the nation's No. 2 Senior Prospect by Baseball America, Cornell threw 42 pain-free pitches - 22 for strikes - against the Musketeers (7-19).
I was absolutely pumped and ready to go when I came out here
Cornell said. It's just a thrill to get out on the mound again to be able to do what I love to do again.
After a junior season that was interrupted by stints of arm trouble, the Cincinnati Reds drafted Cornell in the fifth round of the Major League Baseball Draft, but the right-hander decided to return for his senior season.
Yesterday's game was Ohio's 24th of the season. It was Cornell's second.
It's tough especially this being my fourth year here
having to sit on the bench for half the season and just watch and not be able to help
Cornell said. I feel like I helped a little bit today. Hopefully over the next few weeks I'll be able to help a little more.
