Erstad, Huskers not running from pressure

Darin Erstad got a kick out of being pursued and interviewed for the open Los Angeles Dodgers managerial position last fall. But as soon as he hung up with President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman informing him that he was staying at Nebraska, Erstad knew the pressure was back on.

After making significant strides forward in each of Erstad's first three seasons at the helm, Nebraska took a step back in 2015. A year after finishing 40-19, the Huskers won 30 of their first 43 games, but stumbled badly down the stretch, losing 10 of their final 14 and failing to win a game in the Big Ten Tournament.

“There were a lot of expectations last year, a lot of ‘This is the year’ type of stuff, and it didn’t work out that way," Erstad said. "We got cold at the wrong time and some of the teams we played were playing very well, and that’s how you finish 4-10. The great thing about baseball is you’re back to square one.

"I’m really curious to see how good this team is going to be. I like what we have. We have a lot of unproven products out there, but this is no shortage of talent.”

There is a good deal of unknowns going into this season. There are 15 new players on the roster and the Huskers must replace two weekend starters, not to mention their catcher and third baseman.

The mood surrounding the program soured as the 2015 season slid off the rails. Though the Big Ten was improved, Nebraska posted a 9-14 conference record.

Erstad is making some shakeups in response to the slip. He said he's assuming all offensive duties, being a lot more hands-on with the hitters. He'll also be heavily involved in NU's base running.

"We didn’t get it done, plain and simple. We know that," Erstad said. "Our offense wasn’t good enough. We pitched at a high level and played defense at a high level, and offensively it needs to get better. I get it. If we’re not doing that, we’re not going to be where we need to be.”

Erstad loves that the expectations surrounding the program are so high - that's the sign of a passionate fan base. He also understands that a repeat of last season won't cut it, and he's excited about what this year could bring.

"We all know how this works. I get it," Erstad said. "I’m proud of the culture in this program and I’m proud of what these kids do as far as from a work ethic standpoint. We were heading in the right direction last year, we were in position, and we didn’t get it done, plain and simple. There’s only one person to blame for that, and that’s me.”

On the surface, Nebraska's pitching staff doesn't appear to be a team strength. Chance Sinclair and Kyle Kubat are gone, and while Derek Burkamper is back and Garett King appears ready to ascend into a bigger role, there isn't much experience in the rotation.

But Erstad became excited Friday afternoon when discussing the prospects of his staff, which may be green but doesn't appear to be lacking talent.

“We have guys that have the ability to do it," Erstad said. "I can’t sit here and anoint certain people, but I think once they get out there and you see what they’re throwing up there, it’s rather exciting. Now harnessing the stuff of young, raw arms, it’ll probably be interesting along the way.

"But we have something to work with. There is great opportunity for many guys and it’ll be fun to see how it works out.”

***Infielders Steven Reveles and Jake Placzek were both shut down during the fall due to arm issues. They've both been cleared to return and will be worked back in. First baseman Scott Schreiber (back) also missed time in the fall, but Erstad said he "is starting to move around a little bit. He looks really good."

***As previously reported, pitchers Jake Hohensee and Nate Fisher will both miss the season with Tommy John surgery.

***Erstad said he doesn't necessarily want Ryan Boldt hitting leadoff this year and the Huskers are looking at their options there. Boldt said he's made a bit of a change in his batting stance that should allow him to hit for more power this season.

***Erstad on Boldt's power: "When it comes, I don't have that answer. But when it comes, boy, it's there. I've seen some swings that are pretty special."

***Luis Alvarado will play at both third and in the outfield this season.

***Howell said he's added a changeup to his repertoire, which was basically a fastball and slider during his relieving days.