By Matt Browning
When your head coach refers to you as one of the best catchers in the state, it would be easy to carry a burden of expectation.
But not for McPherson’s Carter Allen.
“I would say that I don’t feel much pressure when coach says that,” Allen said. “I feel that because whenever I go out on the field I just play loose and just try to have fun with my teammates. Having that ability to just play with confidence and composure has always helped me be successful.”
Last season, Allen hit .307 with an OPS of .864. He only had six extra base hits, which was something he paid close attention to throughout the offseason.
“A couple areas that I have improved upon are, hitting for power, along with my pitch selection and approach to each at-bat,” Allen said. “Last year I struggled with pulling the trigger on fastballs earlier in the count. So this year I’m emphasizing to myself that I need to hit the fastball when it’s pitched to me.”
So far, Allen’s focal point seems to be paying dividends – even if it’s in the cage or on machines.
“I’ve worked on this by hitting high velo off of machines this offseason,” Allen said. “I’ve added some power at the plate by staying in the weight room and staying in the cages. The more I swing the bat, the more confident I will be during the season.”
