Lowell visits FIU/High school Monday night games

[yandro]

Lowell throws first pitch at Coral Gables
BY ANDRE C. FERNANDEZ
[e-mail]

Former Florida Marlins third baseman Mike Lowell was back on a baseball diamond in Miami on Monday.

And he did something he hadn't done in 15 years -- pitch a perfect fastball.

Lowell threw the first pitch before his alma mater Coral Gables' season-opener against Brito at FIU. He delivered a perfect strike to fellow Coral Gables alumnus and former major leaguer Eli Marrero.

The ceremony was part of a tribute by Coral Gables, honoring Lowell's winning of the World Series Most Valuable Player award last season with the Boston Red Sox.

''That was the first time I've pitched since high school,'' said Lowell, who graduated from Coral Gables in 1992. ``I just wanted to make sure I didn't short hop it. I figured at worst it would go over his head.

``When I was in high school, I had transferred to a couple of schools. But when I came to Coral Gables, I knew immediately it was a perfect fit. . . . I have a lot of respect for everyone here at Gables.''

Brito held off a late rally by the Cavaliers to pick up an 8-6 victory. Senior first baseman Tony Suarez hit a three-run home run in a four-run first inning, and picked up the save after Coral Gables scored twice in the bottom of the seventh.

The game was part of a new series presented by Lineupmag.com titled ''Monday Night Baseball'' that will be played weekly at 7 p.m. Mondays at FIU. The series will feature several top teams from Miami-Dade and Broward counties -- including Killian, Columbus, Palmetto and Douglas, as well as a contest between Southridge and Alabama powerhouse Russell County.

''It was an idea to help showcase the best teams in South Florida,'' said Lineupmag.com director of operations J.C. Perez. ``A lot of the schools participating really like it because it's a chance to play on a night where typically not a lot of teams are playing.''

SERIES SCHEDULE

• All games at 7 p.m. -- Feb. 18: Killian vs. Columbus; Feb. 25: Palmetto vs. Krop, 7 p.m.; Mar. 10: Belen vs. Mater Academy; Mar. 17: Southridge vs. Russell County (AL); Mar. 24: Florida Christian vs. Parkland Douglas; Apr. 7: Hialeah vs. Killian.

[whoshouse]

Does anyone know if there are any plans in place to honor Mike Lowell this year? Or is he one of the few that is upset at the firing of DP?

Mike Lowell is arguably the most successful athlete in the history of FIU. I hope they do a big thing for him during our home game against UCG. That would be great.

[yandro]

Mike's number is already retired. I don't recall whether they did or did not have a ceremony but I don't think they would have a ceremony after the fact. He definately is the most successful baseball player, up until now (we have to wait and see if Brad Eldred, Josh Banks, or Willy Collazo do anything with their baseball pro careers). As far as most successful overall player, there is some competition from Raja Bell and Carlos Arroyo in basketball, and Antwan Barnes in football. I guess we would have to wait a few more years to see if any of them are able to win Championships with their respective teams.

[whoshouse]

I went to the game that Lowell's numbeer was retired. It was awesome.

I think I should have been more specific. I meant honor him for his accomplishment this past season. Winning the World Series and being named MVP.

I think Yandro is right that FIU will have plenty of stars in the near future, but as of now Lowell is King.

[yandro]

It would be nice to see, but with training camp camp opening soon in Ft. Myers and the season shortly after, it would be tough to have something set up for Mike.

On another note, is there anyone interested in coming to next monday night's game - Killian vs Columbus? Remember that FIU signed two guys from Killian's team for the 2009 season and it would be interesting to watch them play. The lefty Mason McVay is a giant (listed at 6'7", 205). I'm gonna try hard to come out on monday.

[FIUFanatic]

Please, keep us informed on them...Thank you.

[FIUVoice]

There are rumors floating around that there will be a "Mike Lowell Night" during the opening series vs. USC...if I here conformation I will let you guys know

[yandro]

That was be AWESOME!