Streaking IU plays Butler in home opener

The Hoosier baseball squad heads back to the diamond today in an interstate match-up with Butler. It will be the first time this season IU will play in Bloomington at Sembower Field. Last week's game against Xavier was canceled and the team is still trying to reschedule its first home game with DePauw which was postponed on Feb. 25 due to snow.\nThe Hoosiers have rocketed out of the gate, winning six of their first seven games. Last weekend saw them win three of four in a series against Akron in Asheville, N.C. The Hoosiers split a doubleheader on Saturday, winning 17-7 and falling 6-2 in the nightcap. The team then swept Sunday's doubleheader, holding off the Zips, 4-1 and 5-1.\nThe Hoosiers have been lead at the plate by Vasili Spanos. The senior third baseman is batting .480 with five extra base hits and 12 RBI. Sophomore infielder Corby Heckman has also performed well, logging a .333 batting average in 21 plate appearances this season.\nThe pitching staff has been equally impressive. Junior starter Chris Behrens, who earned his first victory on Sunday against Akron, has put in 10.1 innings of work without giving up a run.\nFifth-year senior Ryan Smith has also begun the season on a tear. The closer has gone 2-0 with a 1.04 ERA in four relief appearances while striking out 11 and walking none. The Hoosiers' team ERA stands at a solid 3.26.\nToday, IU will face Butler. The Bulldogs are 3-4 on the season and have also encountered weather troubles with three cancellations so far.\nMost recently, Butler faced Austin Peay last Sunday, winning 6-2. Junior Shane Winkler smashed a three-run homer in the fourth inning, breaking a 1-1 tie and igniting a five-run rally. Freshman Craig Costello earned the victory and freshman Luke Behning pitched the final three innings to pick up the save.\nFirst pitch is set for 3 p.m. at Sembower Field.