Carter Lang, the third baseman for Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU), has quickly become an essential player for the Mustangs after transferring from Alexandria Tech Community College. With impressive stats and strong defensive skills, Lang is proving to be a valuable asset both offensively and defensively. His transition from junior college to Division II baseball was challenging but rewarding, thanks to his experience and support from coaches and teammates.
Lang’s performance this season includes a .308 batting average with five home runs and 15 RBIs, contributing significantly to the team's overall success. Coach Jeremy Ische praises Lang not only for his offensive prowess but also for his exceptional defensive plays that have saved crucial runs for the Mustangs.
After two years at Alexandria Tech Community College, Carter Lang made the leap to SMSU, where he quickly established himself as a key player for the Mustangs. Despite the challenges of adapting to a higher level of competition, Lang demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Coach Ische recognized Lang’s potential early on, noting his ability to adjust swiftly to the faster pace and increased skill level of Division II baseball.
The transition from junior college to Division II was indeed a significant challenge. Players face stronger arms, better defense, and faster runners. Moreover, the age gap adds complexity, with many players being older and more experienced. However, Lang’s prior experience at Alexandria Tech provided him with a solid foundation. He credits his coaches and teammates for helping him refine his approach, focusing on slowing down the game and maintaining concentration on every pitch. This support system allowed Lang to seamlessly integrate into the Mustangs lineup, making an immediate impact both offensively and defensively.
Lang’s contributions extend beyond just hitting; his defensive skills have been equally commendable. While initially impressed by his offensive capabilities, Coach Ische now highlights Lang’s defensive excellence, particularly his knack for making extraordinary plays at third base. These include backhand catches and handling slow rollers, which have proven vital in saving runs and securing victories for the Mustangs.
With a .308 batting average, five home runs, and 15 RBIs, Lang is a formidable force at the plate. His grand slam against Duluth marked a turning point in his career, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure. Beyond the numbers, Lang’s presence brings stability to the Mustangs’ third base position. As they prepare for critical games against Minnesota-Crookston, Lang’s all-around abilities will be crucial in their quest to qualify for the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference tournament. Both Lang and Coach Ische are optimistic about the team’s potential, believing in their capability to achieve great things this season.