Fogel wins award … and 5 things to like about ‘Bows

Adam Fogel was named Big West field player of the week after hitting .750 (9-for-12) in the ‘Bows’ four-game sweep of San Jose State this past weekend.

“I don’t think there’s any question we’re seeing the tip of the iceberg,” coach Mike Trapasso said. “He’ll continue to improve as he gets stronger and as he grows and as he learns more about his swing. We’re looking at a guy who has the potential to do great things.”

The ‘Bows are off to a 15-8 start. Here are five reasons why they’re fun to watch:

> Pitching aces: Brendan Hornung, who has struck out 51 and walked three in 46 2/3 innings, and Dominic DeMiero, who has a 0.97 WHIP, are a dominant 1-2 punch at the front of the rotation. That’s helpful in a four-game series, and it will be really key when the ‘Bows play three-game series in the Big West.

> Hot corner: Josh Rojas is probably the most dynamic UH third baseman since Curt Watanabe. It’s always fun when a player with a shortstop’s range and a goalie’s courage plays third.

> Center field: Not sure what the baseball synonym for gym rat is, but that’s Dylan Vchulek. During training camp, Trapasso described Vchulek as a true centerfielder. The response was, “huh?” but then to watch Vchulek glide in spacious Murakami Stadium, well, that was an apt description. He’s also the sort of leadoff hitter who makes contact, draws out at-bats, and doesn’t mind getting plunked.

> Jackson Rees: He’s got the unconventional over-the-top motion, a cutter that breaks like a Wiffle Ball, and an all-in motion in which his jersey seems to untuck every other throw. He also finds ways to get the job done — “effectively wild,” Trapasso said of Rees’ Sunday outing — and receives support (‘Bows average eight runs in his starts).

> Bullpen: It’s not glamorous, but catcher David Noworyta does a good job warming up the relief pitchers. In Japan’s karaoke bars, the singers practice before taking the mic. Noworyta has the unheralded job of preparing the relievers in the bullpen.