Team: Concordia University St Paul Golden Bears
Conference: NSIC
College Level: NCAA D2
2021 Overall Record: 15-23
Location: St. Paul, MN
Head Coach: Neil Lerner
Assistant Coaches: Jeff Fasching, Max Weesner, Lunch McKenzie, Alex Laporte
Key Returning Position Players
Jarod Wandersee- All Conference player for us last year, will hit in the middle of our order. We expect him to have another good season as he has matured in the weight room and at the plate.
Nick Thimsen- All Conference player last year, one of the most physically talented players in the conference. He will hit at the top of the order and has the ability to hit for power and steal bases.
Matt Pietsch- Starting outfielder for the last two seasons. Mature approach the plate. We expect him to take the next step as a leader and player.
Key Returning Pitchers
Michael Voss- One of our starters last year. He trained hard and has added velocity and sharpness on all of his pitches. If he can stay healthy, he could have a big year for us.
Christian Morel- Had Tommy John during COVID year and missed all of last season. Very athletic arm and competitor. We expect him to compete for a starting role.
Jonah Lewis- Power arm that missed time last year due to illness. Had a solid summer in a tough collegiate league. We expect him to play a big role, whether that is rotation or bullpen.
Impact Freshman/Transfers
Reece Piontek- Freshman LHP from WI State Champion Denmark. He has some velocity and a sharp breaking ball from the left side, and loves to compete.
Korey Dahlberg- Freshman RHP from MN State Champion Farmington. He is extremely crafty, can throw from multiple arm slots with multiple pitches. He has gotten stronger and we hope that translates to more velocity as well.
Mason Nadolney- Juco transfer INF/RHP from NIACC. Very physical. Big time power and good glove on defense. Also will see some innings on the mound for us.
What things did you see from the team in the fall?
We saw a lot of depth at multiple positions. The most depth we have had in years, and there will be competition for playing time at multiple positions. This fall we showed increased athleticism at all spots, which we see leading to more action on the bases.
What was the focus during the fall for the team?
Compete. The guys made it clear that they were not satisfied with how last year went, and worked hard this offseason to change it. Everyone knows nothing will be given, and that they will have to compete and earn their spot.
What are the expectations and goals for the team entering the season?
Our goals are to play to our full potential, which we believe is a conference-tourney quality team. We want to play smarter, and with more consistency which will lead to more wins during the season. We are challenging ourselves early in the season with tough competition which we hope will pay off come conference season.