UVa ace draws a line in the sand

By Jay Jenkins

Published: April 10, 2008

With a hefty payday likely looming after the MLB draft in June, Virginia ace Jacob Thompson has had tons of things to think about over the first three months of the season.
The results, while acceptable for the average pitcher, have proven that the weight of the world was bearing down on the junior right-hander.
Apparently, Thompson has seen enough.
Entering his start at Maryland tonight, which is the opening contest in a three-game set for the Cavaliers (26-9, 8-7 ACC), the 2007 All-American has a number in his loss column for the first time in two years and new mentality.
“This is a turning point in the season,” said Thompson, who allowed a career-worst seven runs in a loss at Florida State last Friday. “I haven’t really been lighting it up, but I have drawn a line in the sand and this is my chance.
“I have five starts left in the ACC before the tournament. I just have to take them one at a time and whatever happens, happens.”
Thompson (4-1) enters the series with a 3.59 ERA, and opposing hitters are batting .256 - some 58 points better than they did against him during an undefeated season in ‘07.
UVa pitching coach Karl Kuhn said Thompson has adopted a new mentality: “I am pitching for me; I am pitching for my team.”
Thompson should benefit from the return of second baseman David Adams, who missed the final four innings Wednesday after being hit in the middle of his body with a bouncing relay throw.
Virginia coach Brian O’Connor said Adams was sore Thursday afternoon, but expected the junior to play tonight against the Terrapins (20-14, 5-10).