GAPP GETS TOP JOB
Prospects turn to veteran
After three years with the Edmonton Prospects, starting pitcher Noah Gapp gets to add another accolade to his resume — the title of staff ace.
The Prospects are turning to the St. Albert native to open the season on Saturday at 7 p.m. against the Fort McMurray Giants. The action unfolds at The Ballpark, formerly known as Telus Field.
“That’s kind of like the coaching staff telling you that you’re their ace and that they’re counting on you to lead off the season with a win,” Gapp said.
It’s the most sought after role for a starting pitcher at any level. The opportunity to be the first to toe the rubber for your team is a strong vote of confidence in a hurler’s ability.
“It’s a responsibility. Being here for three years, and how I’ve done, it’s kind of expected. I know my role and the expectations that come with it,” Gapp said.
Gapp is fresh off a college season where he posted a respectable 3.84 ERA in 70.1 innings — while striking out 60 batters — for Merced Community College in California. The big right-hander will be tasked with quelling the Fort McMurray bats and getting the Prospects season started on the right foot.
It’s an opportunity that’s been three years in the making for the pitcher. After spending a year with the Swift Current Indians of the Western Major Baseball League, Gapp sought to return home.
“I decided that I wanted to be home for the next summer so I emailed (head coach) Ray Brown and asked him if I could come,” Gapp said.
“This is my home. Ever since Ray and Orv (Franchuk) have been here, I’ve gotten to know them really well. I love the town, I love the facility and it’s fun playing and winning for a team at home.”
He’s been with the Prospects ever since. Gapp now finds himself at the top of the seniority totem pole, a role he’s happy to accept.
“The new guys look to you for advice. It’s just a good feeling to know that people look to you,” Gapp said. “Around the team, I’m just trying to be one of the guys. I’m not trying to brag or make it bigger than anything.”
“You want your leaders to lead by example rather than telling people what to do. So that’s what I try to do.”