Iron sharpens iron.

That’s the motto of the 2015 Rambler baseball team.  The goal this year is to play better as a team and make each other better.

Nick Whaley, who is returning to the head coaching duties is big on practicing every rep like you’re playing in a game. The players are often reminded in practice that “If you wouldn’t do it in a game, don’t do it in practice.” Whaley emphasizes  using time well, he wants his players sharpen their skills every single rep. Even if you’re not up, you learn and get better by watching.

Coach Whaley has a new quote on his practice plan every day that the players must read. Before every practice Whaley brings the team together to talk about the quote or lesson of the day.

“Our prime opponent is baseball,” is one that stands out. Players were reminded that the only true opponent in the game of baseball is the game itself, and that preparation is everything. A change that Whaley has brought to the program is the task to simply “think.” Every practice the team goes through extensive situational drills . The goal is to be ready for anything the game may throw at the players.

Mac Whaley, starting right fielder for the team and Nick’s son, added, “This team is very capable of doing great things, our preparation will keep us alive late in the year.”

Another aspect with this year’s team that sets them apart from past years is the pitching. Of the twelve guys on the varsity roster, eight will take the mound at some point this season. The impressive part about this is that all eight have ability. All eight are capable of starting and finishing games.  This will be important with the short bench.

Despite the small numbers,  this is a talented and experienced team. Eleven of the fourteen from last years roster are returning. The leadership on this team will have to make a difference to bring success.

Key returners include pitcher and shortstop Josh Forst, first baseman Sam French, pitcher and infielder Matt Masyga (pictured above), center fielder Jonah Spiten, right fielder Mac Whaley, right fielder Zach Bailey and catcher Andy Tofstad.

Newcomers who are being counted on to bring something to the table are pitcher and infielder Hunter Andre, pitcher and infielder Daisuke Higa left fielder Logan Devorak and third baseman Jacob French.

They are ready for anything challenge that will be thrown at them this year. They are hungry after last year’s frustrating first round playoff loss to Dover.  This team is  capable of great things, and  the bet here is that the 2015 Cotter baseball team will exceed expectations.