Posted: 7/17/02

Forest Lake sends four ballplayers to UMD

Branden Peterson
Sports Intern

The University of Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs will have four former Forest Lake baseball players on their roster next spring.

Of the four, only 2001 graduate Bub Lovas is the former Forest Lake player who is returning to the squad. 2002 graduates Luke Hagman, Alex Johnson, and 2001 graduate Chris Young will also play for the Bulldogs next spring.

After playing one year at Des Moines Community College, Young decided to transfer to UMD last spring.

Forest Lake coach Brian Raabe understands the pressures of post-high school baseball, after playing collegiate ball at the University of Minnesota and later after being drafted.

Raabe is also pleasantly surprised so many of his former players are headed to UMD at one time, but heís also glad the University gives his former players the chance to further their baseball careers.

ìItís ironic that they are all headed up there together, but itís a credit to Duluth.î Raabe explained. ìForest Lake has a history of sending guys up there and giving guys a chance to play.î

Duluth had a moderately successful season last year with 24 wins and 17 losses. In gaining the former players, they receive talented players at a multitude of positions.

Beginning with returning player Bub Lovas, UMD gained a strong control pitcher. As with most incoming freshman, Lovas didnít receive much playing time last year, but Raabe believes Lovas will do well when heís given the opportunity to do so.

With Chris Young, UMD gains a talented shortstop with one year of Juco ball experience.

Currently finishing up the Forest Lake American Legion season, Alex Johnson has proved he can play a multitude of positions. He also has a strong bat to backup his defensive skills.

Also playing on the American Legion team is Luke Hagman. The 2002 graduate is coming off a spectacular year of pitching performances, going 7-1 during the season for the Rangers. Hagman had a no-hitter last week in American Legion ball, and is currently 5-1 for the summer team.

ìLuke did an outstanding job for us this year.î Raabe added. ìHe throws pitches for strikes and has great control over the plate.î

Hagmanís talent may even land him a starting pitching spot next year.

Being familiar with college baseball, Raabe believes Lovas, Young, Johnson, and Hagman should find success in Duluth.

ìDivision II baseball gives a great opportunity for guys to keep playing, and it can only help those guys. I hope they do well.î Raabe said.

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