NEWS DIGEST, SEPT. 10

Saiko out at USC
Graham Saiko, South Carolina's starting left fielder most of last season, no longer is a part of the baseball program, coach Chad Holbrook announced Tuesday. USC sent out an e-mail with the announcement, but as of this time has yet to post the announcement on its school Website. The e-mail follows:

COLUMBIA – South Carolina senior outfielder Graham Saiko is no longer a part of the baseball program, head coach Chad Holbrook announced afternoon.

"Graham is a terrific young man that has done great things both on the field and in the classroom,” said South Carolina head coach Chad Holbrook. “At this time, Graham and I have mutually agreed that it is in his best interest to focus his attention on obtaining his degree from the University of South Carolina. We certainly appreciate all Graham has given to our baseball program and we wish him well in his future endeavors."

Saiko started 56 games last year for the Gamecocks and hit .263 (52-for-198) with 38 runs scored, seven doubles, a pair of homers and 29 RBI.  He also stole 12 bases and put together a .382 on-base percentage.

South Carolina begins fall team practice this weekend.

Saiko is at least the fourth Gamecock not returning for 2014. Earlier, infielder George Iskenderian and infielder/outfielder Erik Payne announced plans to transfer and T.J. Costen transferred to USC Aiken.

Pioneers announce fall schedule
Spartanburg Methodist has announced its fall schedule of 14 games, including four doubleheaders. The Pioneers went to the NJCAA World Series in 2013.
SMC

Winthrop adds Murrian
Former Winthrop catcher John Murrian has joined the Eagles' staff as a volunteer assistant coach.
Eagles