In this installment of the Rawlings Tigers Player Spotlight, Zach Cole, a product of Ball State University, joins Carter Mize to share his journey in professional baseball. Drafted by the Houston Astros in the 10th round of the 2022 MLB Draft, Zach’s story is one of dedication and growth.

From Springfield, Missouri, Zach made frequent trips to St. Louis for summer baseball with the Rawlings Tigers during his high school years. “In Springfield, there weren't many high-level tournaments or clubs,” he recalls. “I had to travel to Kansas City or St. Louis to compete.”

Zach connected with the Rawlings Tigers through a high school teammate, leading him to meet with coaches Jaws, Dave Birkby, and Spiker. “We gelled really well, and the rest is history,” he says.

From his first summer with the 17U Tigers squad with head coach Dave Birkby, Zach’s talent along with the outreach of his Tiger coaches caught the attention of college scouts. “We attended numerous high-quality tournaments that significantly boosted my exposure. I was learning quickly from both the competition and my coaches. I had offers from Power Five schools, but I realized during that summer that a mid-major Division I program would be a great fit—ultimately, that was Ball State.”

After three transformative years at Ball State, Zach found himself on MLB draft boards. When the Astros called during the 10th round, he was ready. “My experience at Ball State was invaluable. I grew immensely as a player and a person, and I wouldn't have been prepared for pro ball without that development.”

Now in his second year as a professional, Zach spent most of the 2024 season playing for the Corpus Christi Hooks, the Double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros. A memorable moment came when he played at Hammons Field in Springfield, where friends and family cheered him on as the announcer recognized him as a local player.

“It was really special to have my community there supporting me,” Zach reflects.

The Rawlings Tigers community is excited to follow Zach's journey as he pursues his dream of becoming a Major League Baseball player. His story serves as an inspiration for young athletes nationwide, encouraging them to chase their dreams in baseball and beyond.

#Train #Educate #GrowTheGame

By: Carter Mize
Rawlings Tigers National Director - Player Development
[email protected]
@mize_carter on X