Chase Adkison didn’t start OSU’s first game of the season.
Now, Adkison, OSU’s starting catcher, is one of the Cowboys’ workhorses this season, starting 39 of OSU’s 44 games, and at a position that takes a toll. While doing so, he’s progressed into a consistent hitter and threat for opposing base stealers.
OSU catcher Ian Daugherty started behind the plate in OSU’s season-opening game in Arlington, Texas, versus Missouri, going 0-2 with an RBI, a walk and two strikeouts. Daugherty started two more games before a tweaked shoulder and a broken bone in his catching hand during the Loyola Marymount series in February.
Since, it’s been Adkison behind the dish.
Last season, Adkison and Daugherty had more balance compared to this season, with Adkison starting 43 games and Daugherty starting 21. More balance provides catchers with longevity throughout the season.
Catchers are different from other position players; catchers usually aren’t playing every game. But with the injury to Daugherty, Adkison had to get over that aspect and push through for the team.
OSU coach Josh Holliday said he wouldn’t have been able to do what Adkison has done this season.
“I wasn’t as tough as Chase,” Holliday said. “I almost feel like as he’s gotten worn down, he’s become crazy relaxed and focused in a way that only concentration due to some natural fatigue allows you to find.
“I think a tired catcher who’s just grinding on behalf of his team relies so much more on his ability to think clearly and trust himself, because his body may not be super fresh, so he’s tapping into a greater sense of what’s going on.”
Adkison has solidified his starting role for the Cowboys and has seen his batting average rise to .311, compared to his .240 in 2022.
One thing Adkison changed at the plate is being more relaxed and taking in each pitch, waiting for the best ball to strike, with confidence.
“Last year I was a little more timid,” Adkison said. “This year I have a lot more confidence than anything.”