CAPITALES ADD EXPERIENCED SLUGGER McADAMS
The Capitales de Québec have secured an impact player following the signing of Josh McAdams, a former protege of the Cleveland Indians organization (now the Guardians) who had an excellent 2021 season with the Southern Blue Crabs Maryland in the Atlantic League. In addition to being a major asset to the team in 2022, he will also take on the role of hitting coach.
The manager of the Capitales, Patrick Scalabrini, does not hide it, he has just made a big signing and he wants the fans of the team to understand the scope of this acquisition.
"Several teams were courting him and he chose to come to Quebec because of the reputation of the organization, the chance to be a hitting coach and also have the right platform on which to take his game to another level. With his advanced mental approach and all his experience in professional baseball, everything indicates to me that Josh will be able to replicate his exploits."
The 28-year-old right-handed hitter from Georgia had his best season in professional baseball with a .272/.361/.481 offensive line in 117 games, including 18 doubles and 22 home runs, the Blue Crabs leader in the latter category and in the top 10 of the Atlantic League. His hard work on his batting approach since 2019 has paid off and he's confident he can replicate his production next season.
"In terms of the successes of the past year, I believe the preparations I made mentally and working with my batting coach/mentor (Casey Smith) during the offseason had a big impact on my season. Also, I was lucky enough to play for a manager (Stan Cliburn) who had the utmost confidence in me and allowed me to play without fear of losing my job. Not having that pressure really helped me push myself!"
Defensively, Scalabrini has equipped himself with an athlete who can fill a spot in the outfield or at the ends of the diamond. This versatility will be important considering the unforeseen events that may arise during the long and arduous regular schedule.
Regarding his less than stellar performances in affiliated baseball, he is aware that his young age at this time affected his approach, but he intends on the other hand to use his current maturity in order to help the hitters of the 2022 edition of the Capitales to reach their full potential.
"I've learned a lot over the past few years and understood that each player has a different role and brings a unique skill set. It's my job to identify those attributes and help maximize them throughout the season."
