On every team there is always one player whose voice stands out from all the rest. It is encouraging, driven and demanding all at the same time. The voice calls out for the best from every teammate. For the Lower Columbia Red Devils, as a spectator, I truly feel Gabe Ihrig is that voice. His…
In baseball there are leaders who come to the forefront and are seen by all. There are also leaders who stay out of the spotlight and lead through their actions. Chris Rogers, outfielder for the Lower Columbia Red Devils, isn’t one for the spotlight. That doesn’t make him less of a leader. He leads through…
A starting pitcher is the one position that has the most influence as to an outcome of a game in baseball. A bad outing for a starter puts their team in a whole right away. A strong outing can ease the pressure off of an offense. If a team knows that three runs is enough…
A player can have raw talent and athletic ability but without a strong work ethic all the ability in the world can go to waste. Conner Switzer understands the importance of work ethic and it shows in his play on the field. He understands that as a catcher you have to put in the time…
Every position in baseball has a typical mentality that goes with it whether it is 100% true or not. Relief pitchers are crazy. Starting pitchers are overly serious. Middle infielders are focused leaders. Outfielders have a flare for the theatrical. Corner infielders are the muscle on the team who believe in the phrase Grip it…
Every team needs players that keep the clubhouse loose. A relaxed team bonds easier and encourages and supports each other more. Lorin Archibald is one of the players that can help keep a team loose and relaxed. That isn’t all he brings to the table though. Currently batting third in the Lower Columbia Red Devil…
When you think of second basemen types you normally think about two types of players. One is a defensive first player who can lay down sacrifice bunts and may get a few timely hits when needed (Darwin Barney). The other is is solid defensive player who is a threat at every at bat (Robinson Cano).…
When you ask a coach who would be a good player to talk with and without hesitation he mentions a player you know something about that player stands out. Something about their story and baseball career is worth being told and Tanner Marty is that type of player. Even before the interview started you could…
It has been a few years since I did my interview series Beyond the Game but this interview with Seaver Whalen would have fit great in that series. His focus and understanding of the importance of the mental side of the game of baseball is evident in his actions. As a fan it is great…
For some players staying in their hometown to continue their career can be challenging. People know what you are capable of and have expectations. For some that is a challenge for others it is an opportunity to challenge themselves and grow. Ryan Littlefield is a player who chose to stay in his hometown to play…
9 Inning Know It All 