By CHUCK PORTER
Collinsville baseball fans are already well-acquainted with the name Schlomann. Cal Schlomann, a freshman pitcher, is expected to be a key contributor for the Cardinals this season. His older brother, Chayse, graduated last year.
Despite his youth, Cards coach Tony Reeder expects the younger Schlomann to put in meaningful innings of work on the mound this year. Schlomann already commands a four-seam fastball, a two-seam fastball, a change-up and a cutter, but he said his best pitch is his 12/6 curveball. He’s also confident in his preparation stepping into the high school game.
“I’m not preparing any different than any other game. Yes, it’s a little bit different facing better competition and older guys but I just go out and do the things I can control,” Schlomann said.
Cal’s love of baseball started early. “I started playing baseball when I was 5 years old and for as long as I can remember I’ve loved the game,” Schlomann said.
Schlomann is part of a youth infusion to a Cardinal roster that made it to the Class 5A state semifinals last season before falling to eventual state champion Duncan. In 2022, Collinsville graduated 10 players, including pitcher and centerfielder Chayse, making way for future stars like Cal to toe the rubber.
“I’m excited for every game and tournament this year,” Schlomann said. “No matter how good or bad the opponent you’re facing, it’s still baseball and I get to go out compete and have fun. All of my proudest moments so far are just going out there pitching and helping my team win.”
Schlomann models his game after Los Angeles Angels two-way star Shohei Ohtani, who has revolutionized the pro game as both a hitter and a pitcher. “I really enjoy seeing him play, to watch the mechanics he has,” Schlomann said.
Cardinal fans will get to watch Schlomann in action for the next four years, but Schlomann is already thinking about what’s next.
“My goals for my baseball career is to go to college and play and develop even more,” Schlomann said, “then see where it takes me from there.”
