May 7, 2019
Photo credit: Renae Weaver
Prospect Ryan Gold is building off last season in his second go-round with the Lansing Lugnuts.
Finishing 2018 with a .264/.308/.346 slash line with the Lugnuts’ gave Gold an idea of what playing in Lansing is like.
His bat started off a little cold in 2019, but it’s picking up as of late. Gold has gone 12-for-41 in his last 10 games, which has risen his line to .235/.297/.382.
And his game on April 18th will be one that Gold will never forget as he hit for the cycle!
“It was the first cycle I’ve ever hit,” stated Gold. “I was super excited and blessed for that to happen, especially since I was slumping earlier in the year.”
His plate approach was definitely clicking that day – as his plate approach is something that he has been working hard on since turning pro.
“My plate approach has gotten way better,” explained Gold. “I’m looking in certain zones for pitches, and not chasing out of that zone has helped me develop my game a lot in pro ball.”
Another area he has been working hard on is his defense. With the ability of playing either catcher or first base; Gold admits he doesn’t have a preference where he’s slotted, as he just wants to help the team win games.
“Anywhere is fine with me, as I just want to play and help the ball club win games,” said Gold. “My defense has gotten way better. It has been a priority of mine to become a plus-plus defender.”
And his efforts are showing this season in Lansing, as Gold has a flawless fielding percentage in his 53 innings behind the plate, and a .981 fielding percentage in his 46 innings at first base.
Drafted initially as a catcher, Gold talks about what he likes best about working with a professional pitching staff.
“The best part is being able to control the game the way our team needs it to be,” explained Gold. “Being on the same page as the pitcher all night and throwing well is what we always strive for every outing.”
Be sure to follow Ryan Gold’s progress as he continues to work hard at both phases of the game.