Subbert Finding Success in ‘Pen for the Hoots

Everyone needs to find their comfort level in order to be truly effective on a baseball field. For Hoots right-hander Carson Subber, that comfort level has been found this month in the O’Fallon bullpen.

In 10.2 innings this month, Subbert has pitched to a 2.53 ERA, striking out 12. His last two outings have been phenomenal, allowing one earned run in his last 10 innings. The key for Subbert has been simple: get ahead and stay ahead. 

“I’m making sure I get ahead in counts,” said Subbert. “Coming at them with fastball first pitch or offspeed for a strike, gives me a lot of room for the rest of the at-bat to work with.”

His best outing of the season came on July 12 when he struck out seven over 4.2 scoreless innings against the Quincy Gems. Subbert said he didn’t really have just one pitch working for him, but that his command early allowed him to register strikeouts on different types of pitches. 

In seven appearances this season, Subbert has only started a game once. He says he is getting more comfortable in the bullpen, but will go wherever the team needs him. 

“Honestly, wherever the coach wants me to pitch from, I will,” said Subbert. “I might be more adjusted to that [coming out of the bullpen] now, rather than starting.”

Subbert hopes this success will give him a greater opportunity at Lindenwood next season. This past season, Subbert allowed one earned run in five innings. Lindenwood is moving to Division I next season, but Subbert’s success against national talent this season should propel him to a greater role with the Lions.

The St. Charles native decided to stay close to home and play with the Hoots the summer and says it’s been a positive experience. 

“Given the opportunity to play close and be in O’Fallon is a really cool experience,” said Subbert. “The fans are great [at CarShield Field] and the environment is always a good time.”

Subbert should play a key role as the Hoots try to make a second half push to the remaining playoff spot. He’ll play wherever he is needed, but wanted to add that the chemistry of the team is growing. 

“As the season has progressed, our team has become a little bit closer and I think that has helped with our team chemistry and our ability to play together,” said Subbert. “We all root for each other and want each other to play the best we can.