By Keith Thomas
Staff Writer

Following a solid string of appearances while aiding Purdue to a 5-1 record last week, Purdue closer Andy Helmer has been named Big Ten Co-Pitcher-of-the-Week.

Helmer (2-0), who was a three-year starter prior to this season, earned three saves over the week as well as picking up the win against Indiana Sunday in Purdue’s 7-6 comeback. The Fort Wayne, Ind., native’s performance on April 11 was instrumental in beating No. 24 Notre Dame 7-5, earning his first save of the week. Save No. 2 came the next day in an extra innings battle with Valparaiso. He recorded the final out of the day — preserving the win for the Boilers (23-13, 9-7 Big Ten).

Helmer, who is sharing the award this week with Minnesota pitcher Mike Kobow, then followed that by closing the door on the Hoosiers in Purdue’s 6-5 victory Friday. In those successful appearances over the past week, Helmer dominated all the batters he faced. Helmer did not allow a single hit in his four innings of work last week, while striking out one. He didn't allow a run.

With his Big Ten-leading 12 saves — twice as many as the next conference closer — Helmer said it's great to be recognized as the conference standout for the week.

"It’s a great honor," said Helmer, who leads the Boilers with a 1.19 ERA. "I didn’t expect this much success."

Last week was not the only successful one for Helmer this season. He has been a key component of the Boilers' success so far this season. Purdue is just one win shy of last years total (24) with 20 regular season games still to play. Primary contributions that Helmer makes to the Boilers are consistency and longevity.

Helmer leads Purdue in appearances with 17, and he hasn't blown a save opportunity. He is holding opposing batters to a mere .157 batting average, which is a team-best mark. However, when talking about Helmer this season, the conversation doesn’t get much further than his abundance of saves.

Five of Helmer’s 12 saves have come against conference foes, and he has not allowed a single run in any of his Big Ten appearances.

With his success, no one is as happy as second-year coach Doug Schreiber.

"He put together a good week for us," said Schreiber. "I think Andy is very deserving."

As deserving as he is dominant, the tall right-hander is an intimidating figure as he trots to the mound from the Boiler bullpen. The 6-foot-8 and 225 pound senior’s fastball reaches sometimes into the low 90s.

"I think that’s all part of what he brings to the table," said Schreiber, a former player who said Helmer’s presence alone is intimidating.

In addition to his physical appearance, his success thus far this season has drawn some attention from professional baseball scouts.

"They’ve been pleasantly surprised," Schreiber said. "I hope for the best. I think he has a great chance to compete at the next level."

Thanks to Helmer, Purdue pitching staff and taking three of four games from IU over the weekend at Lambert Field, the Boilers are in fourth-place in the Big Ten.