By JOHN KEREZY, eyeoncleveland.com founder
BERLIN, MAY 13 — Just seven months ago, MONTY COBLENTZ was competing for Hiland’s golf team at the OHSAA Division III Ohio Golf Championship in Columbus. He shot an 85 – tying him for 33rd in the state — and helped the Hawks to a 5th place finish at States.
But now he’s back to his first love – baseball – where he’s making his mark as a left-handed pitcher for the Hawks, 18-5 as they enter sectional competition in Berlin Tuesday against either Bridgeport of Tuscarawas Central Catholic.
SECOND IN A SERIES
Like many of his Hiland teammates, Monty began baseball with t-ball at the age of five. He progressed as he grew. “I played freshman year, and I ended up quitting sophomore and junior years to play golf,” Monty explains. “Now I just want to help out the guys, and maybe win States or something like that,” he adds with a smile.
Coblentz exhibited his skills on the mound when he tossed a one-hitter and struck out six batters over six innings in Hiland’s 3-0 victory over Indian Valley at Lehman Field on May 6. Coblentz also lashed a double to right field in the game, and has a .500 on base percentage with the team.
“Monty came back to us taking two years off playing golf. He was very competitive, even was on the state team, but he’s always loved baseball and wanted one more year at it,” Coach Chris Dages says. “We couldn’t be happier for the success he’s had recently.”
No one accuses Monty of having an overpowering arm, but he exhibits pinpoint control on the mound. “He won’t blow anyone away with the fast ball, but he uses his curve to great effect,” Dages says about his southpaw hurler.
Listen to an interview with Monty Coblentz here:
As someone who wasn’t part of the program for the past two years, Monty understands his role with the Hawks. “I try to be loud and on the bench and support the guys, just motivate,”
Monty also praises the work of his catcher Danny Hostetler, for calling good pitches.
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