The Barometer Online

Issue date: 2/20/09 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Peter Strong Sophomore John Tommasini throws to first in 2008 game against Pepperdine. Tommasini should join junior Joey Wong in the middle infield for OSU.

Failing to skip a beat in 2009, Oregon State has what it believes to be its best-ever defensive infield. Relying on a young group of talent, the Beavers are confident with their options, well aware that an abundance of players will play a role in their success.

"We've always felt like we want to be good defensively in the infield, and therefore it will be a priority to us," head coach Pat Casey said.

While first, second and third base seem to be up for the taking, shortstop appears secured by a veteran.

Entering his third season for the Beavers, Joey Wong is already mentioned amongst the greats. An asset to the team since his freshman year, he will be remembered for making big time plays in big time games. Whether it's his back-up at first base in a Super Regional contest against the University of Michigan or his picturesque double play in the 2007 College World Series, Wong's attention to detail is what separates him from the rest.

"Leadership role," teammate John Tommasini said. "He just does his work and doesn't say too much. He influences us to get the job done as well; if you see him working hard, your going to work hard."

Initially playing the role of apprentice to Darwin Barney, Wong has taken what he learned and filled shoes many never expected. Now a mentor to those around him, the Salem native looks to lead with his success, something he proved to be very capable of in 2008.

Shining as an everyday player, Wong was the only person on the team to start in all 52 games. While leading off a majority of games for the Beavers, he batted .244 and cleared the outfield wall on five separate occasions.

Hoping to lighten the load and prove his own worth as an everyday player, John Tommasini is a fellow returnee and middle infielder. Entering his sophomore season, the 5-foot-7-inch wizard is a vacuum for ground balls and a perfect compliment to his shortstop counterpart. Tommasini started 16 games in 2008, batting .262 with three doubles and four RBI. Oregon State's solidity middle infield should make for a multitude of highlight plays.

Continued...

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