The Amsterdam Mohawks, a powerhouse in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League (PGCBL), continue to dominate the sport. This week, six of their alumni were chosen in the Major League Baseball draft, further solidifying their reputation as a breeding ground for professional talent. And if that weren’t enough, the current Mohawks team delivered a stunning no-hitter on Tuesday night at Shuttleworth Park.
Mohawks coach Keith Griffin, who has led the team to eight championships in his 14-year tenure, sets lofty expectations for his players. “It’s every year, we’ve got to win the championship,” Griffin asserts. This relentless pursuit of success has paid off for the Mohawks, who recently enjoyed a 16-game winning streak, the longest unbeaten stretch in franchise history.
The PGCBL, a college summer league in New York, offers an opportunity for roster turnover with mostly freshmen and sophomores. However, the Mohawks somehow manage to consistently field a winning team. Griffin attributes this to recruiting the best local players from the Capital District.
Among the talents contributing to the Mohawks’ success are two Section II alumni—Tyler Sausville, a pitcher from Colonie High, and Zach Eldred, a junior outfielder and pitcher from Columbia. Sausville, who just completed his freshman year at Division II New Haven, boasts an impressive 5-0 record with a 1.06 earned-run average this summer. Eldred, representing Division III Brockport, ranks ninth in the league with a .356 batting average and has made his mark with four home runs and 24 RBIs.
The atmosphere at Shuttleworth Park also plays a significant role in the team’s triumphs. Amsterdam boasts an average attendance of 1,440 fans, creating an electrifying environment that motivates players to perform at their best. Sausville notes the stark difference between home games and those on the road, appreciating the overwhelming support and positive energy from the community.
Griffin and Mohawks president Brian Spagnola tap into their college connections to supplement the local talent with high-major players from across the country. This year’s roster includes players from Maryland, Utah, Alabama, Mississippi State, and Wake Forest, who all stay with host families in Amsterdam.
Cam Gurney, a freshman catcher and infielder from Utah, exemplifies the team’s success in recruiting high-caliber talent. Gurney currently leads the PGCBL with an impressive .520 batting average, and he attributes the team’s accomplishments to the coaches’ guidance and the camaraderie among the players.
The Mohawks take pride in their rich tradition of producing professional players. With over 70 former players currently competing at various levels of professional baseball, including 21 alumni drafted in the 2019 MLB draft, the team has become a stepping stone for aspiring stars. Griffin views his role in the players’ development as preparing them to shine upon their return to college.
As Griffin nears the end of his esteemed managing career with the Mohawks, he reflects on his achievements and the hard work invested in cultivating great players. Having recently celebrated his 500th win with the team, Griffin remains committed to their pursuit of excellence.
The Amsterdam Mohawks serve as a testament to the power of skilled coaching, exceptional talent, and an unwavering commitment to success. Regardless of what the future holds, this dynasty shows no signs of slowing down.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
