Gamecock Baseball Player Dismissed After Arrest

((HT: WIS-TV))

Coach Ray Tanner said on the Southeastern Conference's coaches teleconference Monday morning that Casey Rihn was no longer on the team.

"I told him that I would help him, I would be there for him, but playing baseball at this University is not part of our immediate future," said Tanner.

Casey Matthew Rihn ((pictured, thanks Alvin S Glenn Detention Center)) was arrested and charged with drinking in public, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest after the Gamecocks' Saturday night season finale.

Police say the 21-year-old infielder began beating on a patrol car in Five Points, asking for a ride. The officer began talking to Rihn, and noticed he was intoxicated.

Rihn ran off, but police chased him and attempted to arrest him. Police say Rihn resisted, but was eventually handcuffed.

Columbia EMS was called to examine Rihn's face, which was injured during the struggle. Police say Rihn was also belligerent with EMTs as they examined him.
Rihn was released from jail Sunday evening on a personal recognizance bond.

Rihn, a infielder and junior college transfer, played in 28 games this season and started in eight. He hit one home run and scored 5 RBIs.

The Gamecocks finished their regular season Saturday afternoon with a 6-1 win against Georgia. They're scheduled to play Alabama next week in the SEC tournament.
It's also an emotional time for the coach as he talks about having to let one of his players go.

"I just think it's important, you know like I said, Casey is a terrific young man. I just think when you make decisions that are bad, you're responsible and you have penalties that are consequences when you take action. It saves other people and will probably save him in the future," said Tanner.
Here's the story from our friends at WIS-TV and Rick Henry...