NEW ORLEANS – As Maestri Field prepares to host another slate of games for the 2024 season, there are new features at the ballpark and upgrades to the locker room and clubhouse that are a part of the athletic department's mission to continue to invest in upgrades for New Orleans athletics.
This off-season, there were upgrades that were completed in the clubhouse and locker room. Thanks to a donation by Modern Flooring, new flooring was installed throughout the clubhouse. Additionally, the locker room received a fresh coat of paint and there was a new water fountain installed.
"We want to always give our players the best we can," said Head Coach Blake Dean. "We have a great donor base that allows us to do a few things each season for them. We hope to continue making improvements and giving our student-athletes what they deserve."
In compliance with the NCAA's timeline, two pitch clocks were installed in tandem with the recently enacted policy that concerns pace of play. There is a clock located to the right of the scoreboard and another that is stationed between home plate and the first base dugout. The pitch clocks will be operated by the umpires via a remote triggering system.
In 2022, the NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel approved modifications to a 20-second action clock for pitchers.
Also installed was a replay system that will allow umpires to look at all reviewable calls pursuant to NCAA regulations that were updated in 2023. Each coach receives two challenges that can be used on all calls that are deemed reviewable including fair/foul balls, home runs, catches, scoring plays at home plate including collisions, hit batters, tag-ups, interference for the purpose of breaking up a double play and catcher's interference on a swing.
"I think the upgrades we've made are amazing," said senior catcher Miguel Useche. "The flooring is a great touch and it gives a newer perspective to the locker room. The pitch clock is a game changer where the pitcher or hitter can just look out there and know how much time is left. I love the direction the program is moving in and it's awesome."
The regular season starts on Feb. 16 when the Privateers host a series against Georgia State. First pitch is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.
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For 54 seasons, Privateer student-athletes have had the unique experience of wearing New Orleans across their chests. Like the city itself, our sports teams have been fueled by resiliency, grit, and the unquenchable desire to win. Our city also houses the nation's biggest celebration each year. And much like a Mardi Gras parade krewe, we are tethered to our community through pride, tradition, a culture of acceptance, and finally our commitment to show that New Orleans is a world-class city to live, learn, play and work. We invite you to become more involved with the only University that truly represents New Orleans all day, every day. Join #NOLAsTeam, We Are Your Krewe!
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