Versatile Schultz Key In TCU's Postseason Run
6/22/2010 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
June 22, 2010
OMAHA, Neb. -- As TCU enjoys its time in Omaha, one of the most sacred cities in collegiate athletics, the Horned Frogs will do so with a team full of decorated players.
However, junior Aaron Schultz takes on a separate role as the unsung hero of the Horned Frogs' 2010 postseason success. His heroics with the bat and glove late in the deciding game of the Austin Super Regional were key in TCU's first trip to the College World Series in school history.
"It's such a crazy feeling looking back on it," said Schultz. "It feels good knowing that it helped us reach Omaha."
On that Sunday afternoon in Austin, Schultz hit his ninth home run of the year on a seventh-inning blast to the parking lot behind Disch-Falk Field. As an encore act, Schultz robbed Texas' leadoff hitter in the eighth inning with an over-the-shoulder catch that saved a huge momentum swing on the Longhorns' behalf.
"That home run was a relief, because it was my first and only hit of the Super Regional," said Schultz. "Looking back on that inning, who knows what would have happened if I hadn't made that catch."
Schultz has made a reputation of being one of the more durable players for TCU, spending time in left and center field as well as second and third base. Despite being an infielder for his entire life before playing for the Frogs, he is glad to have made the transition to being a starting outfielder.
"Growing up, I played infield," said Schultz. "That's where I feel at home pretty much. When I got to college, they used me in left field. I felt pretty comfortable out there, and last year they moved me to center."
With a strong contingent of Houston-area teammates, Schultz feels at home. The Spring, Texas, native enjoys the company of many friends that he played with or against in high school.
"When we think about when we were little, we talk about playing against each other," said Schultz. "It's a pretty cool feeling."
Schultz's recruitment to TCU is one that he fondly looks back on, a move that he believes is one that has been a good decision from the start.
"Coach (Todd) Whitting started talking to me and when I came to visit, I just liked the small campus and atmosphere," said Schultz. "It seemed like the coaches wanted to really make you better, and it was a great fit for me and my family."
As a utility player throughout his TCU career, Schultz has practiced everything from double plays to fly balls, leaving his mark on teammates from every position.
"He's quiet, but when his bat comes alive and he makes those plays on defense, he gets us going," said junior second baseman Jerome Pena. "That's what I love about him."
By David Cohen, GoFrogs.com
