By Angela Brunk
As a senior at McPherson High School, Cade Strathman is preparing for one final season in the Bullpup uniform. A versatile player who can line up just about anywhere on the field, Strathman primarily plays middle infield and pitches, bringing consistency and leadership to his team.
“One last ride with my teammates, coaches, and friends,” Strathman shared, is what excites him the most about the upcoming season. For Strathman, it’s about more than just wins and losses; it’s about competing in the game he loves while representing McPherson with pride.
Strathman’s offseason, however, looked different than most. After breaking his ankle last summer while playing baseball, Strathman spent the fall focused on physical therapy and recovery. By winter, he was able to ease back into the game, hitting with a teammate several times a week and throwing nearly every day. Varsity basketball also helped him regain conditioning and stay competitive, heading into baseball season.
This year, Strathman’s biggest personal goal is to become a strong leader and role model for younger teammates. During the offseason, he and a few teammates met with Chad Wedel, a longtime Navy serviceman, to discuss leadership and accountability. Lessons he’s eager to apply throughout the season.
Individually, Strathman aims to show up every day committed to improvement while elevating those around him. As a team, the Bullpups have their sights set on winning regionals and making it to State in Salina.
Last season, Strathman earned First Team All-League honors at third base and received Honorable Mention All-State recognition from Sports in Kansas.
After graduation this spring, he plans to continue his baseball career at Barton County Community College. He plans to study athletic training before eventually transferring to a four-year university to pursue physical therapy and continue playing baseball.
