March 24, 2008

IRVING, Texas - For the second time this season the Conference USA office has selected senior right hander Barry Bowden as the C-USA Pitcher of the Week.

Bowden was masterful Friday night as he completely dominated No.16 Central Florida (20-3) in the C-USA opener at Pete Taylor Park, leading the Golden Eagles to an 8-4 victory.

Bowden struck out a career high 14 batters in route to his fourth win of the season Friday. He allowed three hits in the third inning to load the bases but struck out two consecutive UCF hitters to end their only threat of the game.

Bowden did not allow another hit until the seventh inning. He struck out seven Knight hitters in the first three innings and at least one batter in every inning.

His 14 strikeouts is a new career high and places him sixth all-time on the Southern Miss strikeout list, giving his 245 for his career, only 21 away from passing the legendary Ray Guy for fifth place.

Bowden was also named C-USA and National Pitcher of the Week after his complete-game two-hit shutout at then No. 25 Louisiana-Lafayette on March 29.

Rice shortstop Rick Hague was been named Conference USA Hitter of the Week, Southern Miss will travel to Rice for this weekend C-USA series. Bowden will toe the rubber Friday night vs. the Owls.

-southernmiss.com-