Angels take Schugel, infielder plays final game at PA Stadium

A.J. Schugel is trying to be Babe Ruth in reverse.

The second-year Thunder Bay Border Cats infielder, who led the club with four homeruns in 2009, is off to play rookie ball for the Los Angeles Angels organization, days after being drafted by the major league club.

However, he’ll put his bat down and try his luck as a pitcher, something he’s done only sporadically since beginning his college career at Central Arizona.

"Obviously I’m going as a pitcher and I haven’t pitched much, so they’re going to give me time to develop and do that. I’ve come to the realization that that’s what I’ll be doing. That’s what they told me and I don’t have a problem with that, so I’ll give it my all."

Schugel, who tossed four innings of shutout ball in 2009, led the Cats with four home runs and 33 RBI last season. He struggled in 2010, however, hitting just .233 with one homer and three driven in 12 appearances.

The 20-year-old pitched regularly in high school and said he’s looking to returning to the mound, even if it means giving up the offensive side of his game.

"It’s two completely different things. I’m looking forward to it. It’s going to be a lot more running and throwing of course," he said.

Border Cats manager Mike Steed said he’s confident Schugel has what it takes to make it in the professional ranks as a pitcher, though he admitted it seemed a little unlikely that his star infielder would be drafted as one.

"A lot of the fans won’t understand how a kid can get drafted (as a pitcher) and not throw an inning all year. A.J. (throws) 93 to 94 (miles per hour) off the hill. He’s a fresh arm and has pitched in his career, and that’s what the Angels front office and farm director believe his future is off the mound," Steed said.

Schugel is one player Steed said he can’t afford to lose, but player development and promotion is what the Northwoods League is all about.

"It’s that bittersweet feeling right now," Steed said. "I’m very disappointed that he’s leaving us because he’s a great kid. He brings a lot to the team – maybe not even so much his performance, but just the way he handles himself in the clubhouse.

"But what a great opportunity. He’s going on to the next level and that’s what all the guys strive for. It was time for him to go."

The decision, though relatively easy for Schugel, comes with some misgivings.

"It’s kind of bittersweet. I mean, I’m going to miss all the guys. I had a blast up here. But it’s a dream and you’ve just got to keep going for it," he said.