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April 16, 2008

Rutledge finding swing

Former Cullman shortstop leading Tide in batting average as freshman

By Justin Graves

Josh Rutledge couldn’t have scripted a better debut.

Playing in his first season with the University of Alabama’s baseball team, the former Cullman High standout leads the team in four offensive categories.

After starting in 35 of Alabama’s 37 games this season, Rutledge is hitting a team-high .381. The freshman also leads the Crimson Tide in runs (34), hits (59), and stolen bases (10).

“I’ve gotten off to a solid start,” Rutledge said. “I’ve made some adjustments since the first of the year, and I feel pretty confident at the plate right now.”

Before Rutledge made his debut at Alabama, the freshman shortstop decided to consult with someone who knew a thing or two about the caliber of pitching he would face on a daily basis in the Southeastern Conference.

Rutledge’s brother, Michael, played three seasons at Mississippi State before transferring to Samford this year. So before the season began, Rutledge went to his brother for a little advice.

“(Michael) gave me a good idea about what to expect,” Rutledge said. “The pitching we see on a day-to-day basis in the SEC is no joke. Almost everyone has good velocity and they all can hit their spots.

“My brother gave me all the pointers he could. That’s one reason I’ve been able to make a smooth transition.”

While Rutledge is building a reputation as one of the best leadoff batters in the SEC, the freshman is quietly putting together a good season at shortstop.

Rutledge has one of the best fielding percentages on the team at .940. He has only made eight errors on the season, while turning 17 double plays.

Even though Rutledge has made a name for himself this season, the freshman still understands that things can change quickly in the SEC. That’s why he doesn’t plan on taking anything for granted.

“The other teams are starting to get a better scouting report on me,” he said. “But that’s part of the game. I’m just going to have to make the necessary adjustments at the plate and go from there.

“It’s been a pretty smooth transition so far. Hopefully I’ll be able to keep it up.”

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