OMAHA, Neb. – The Arizona Wildcats aren’t used to all the attention they’re getting here at the 2016 College World Series. But this is their reward for a successful season, and Coach Jay Johnson wants them to enjoy it.
The Wildcats participated in an open-to-the-public practice on a bright, warm Friday afternoon at TD Ameritrade Park. Later, they signed autographs – a full-circle moment for a team whose spring season began with an alumni game and autograph session at Hi Corbett Field. The UA will participate in the opening-ceremony festivities Friday night.
The team is focused but loose, per usual. Senior pitcher Tyler Crawford, the lone remaining member of the 2012 CWS champions, expects the Wildcats to be relaxed when Saturday’s game arrives because that will feel normal compared to everything that precedes it.
Arizona (44-21) faces No. 3 national seed Miami (50-12) at 5 p.m., Tucson time. UC Santa Barbara (42-18-1) faces Oklahoma State (41-20) in the College World Series opener at noon.
