Lockport’s Dylan Nagle takes pride in being a contact hitter who gets on base and sets the table.
The 6-foot-1 senior first baseman/pitcher has scored eight runs this season batting in the No. 2 spot in the order. That said, he hasn’t changed his go-for-broke mentality on the mound, either.
“I am definitely not shy when I’m out there,” said Nagle, who has committed to Heartland, a community college in Normal. “Not matter what the count is, I’ll throw anything.
“I’m not scared off throwing off-speed, especially if I’m ahead in the count. I trust myself, and I’m confident with my breaking ball.”
Still, Nagle knows the last thing he can afford to do is being conventional for the Porters (5-3-1). It’s why he never even flinched when asked to make the switch from starting pitcher to closer.
“I think it shows how determined I am,” he said. “I definitely always want that challenge. I always want to prove myself, trust my training and believe in everything I did during the offseason.”
That has led to a solid start as Nagle is hitting .389 with four stolen bases, a triple and four RBIs. In 5 1/3 innings on the mound, he has posted a 1-1 record with a save while striking out six.
The right-handed Nagle has been timed at 92 mph with his fastball. He also has good command of his pitches, including excellent off-speed material. The transition to closer has been seamless.
“I’ve been a starter the last two years, but we had a couple of younger arms come in to fill those starting spots,” he said. “It has definitely been different, but I still like coming in to close a game.
“It’s a big spot, and just being able to close, especially when we’re winning, feels super good.”
On top of that, Nagle also isn’t afraid of other changes. After primarily playing second base last season as a junior, he has started every game this spring at first base.
Lockport coach Scott Malinowski said Nagle has the ability to play all four infield positions. As a pitcher, he can start or come on as a middle reliever in addition to handling those closer chores.
“Nobody works harder or plays more for his teammates than Dylan,” Malinowski said. “He’s a very versatile player who is always willing to do whatever is necessary to help the team.”
By his own admission, Nagle is quiet and tends to keep to himself, except when he’s around his closest friends or teammates. He likes to listen to music and play video games.
His style and manner is all serious, however, when the moment arrives.
Senior outfielder Ryan Groberski said Nagle plays with a purpose that makes him a natural to be around. His competitiveness on the field also is a known quantity among his teammates.
“Dylan is easily one of the most dedicated and hardest working people I know,” Groberski said. “What makes him elite is the way he acts on and off the field.
“He’s a great teammate who is always there to pick up his teammates and make them better every single day. I’ve never seen another player who has that toughness and selflessness like Dylan.”
As much as any player, Nagle understands the mathematical possibilities are endless in baseball.
It’s why he loves the game.
“The game itself is a great challenge because baseball is never easy,” Nagle said. “The game is hard sometimes, and I get mad or frustrated.
“When I finally succeed, especially with the struggles I might go through, it feels that much better.”
Patrick Z. McGavin is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
