Bentz to give local pitching lessons
One of Juneau's three professional baseball players, Chad Bentz is offering to give free pitching lessons to local ballplayers this off-season.
Bentz, a 1999 Juneau-Douglas High School graduate, spent the summer pitching for the Vermont Expos, a short-season Class A minor league team in the New York-Penn League.
Currently, Bentz is working out with the Juneau high school players Thursdays and Sundays, while keeping busy as a substitute teacher in the Juneau school district.
"I just want to say that I'm back and I want to give out pitching lessons," Bentz said. "Anyone who wants a private lesson, just give me a ring and we'll work something out. I've got good stuff I learned and I want to teach younger people what I know. I just want to get the kids off on the right track."
Bentz says that instruction will include stretching programs, strengthening of the shoulder, proper pitching mechanics and set-up routines.
"It all depends on the age of the player," Bentz said. "I got stuff for any age. If they're old enough, I'll show them grips. But I'll show everyone a fastball change-up. You can never be too young to learn that one."
The Crimson Bears head baseball coach, Jim Ayers, encourages young baseball players to take the opportunity to learn from Bentz.
"Chad's been working with the baseball team and we're making time available for him to help other people," Ayers said. "He's a great guy who knows pitching, challenges and has an awesome attitude. Those are the three things you need to be successful."
Bentz' season was cut short due to a foot injury, but is healthy now and expects the Expos' organization to move him up next season, possibly to the Expos' class A affiliate Jupiter Hammerheads in Jupiter Fla.
"They are happy with what they saw and are thinking about bumping me up," Bentz said. "It all depends on spring training. I'm not worried about it, though."
Bentz finished the season with a 1-3 with a 4.91 ERA in eight starts. He struck out 38 batters in 36.2 innings while walking only 11 and giving up 39 hits.
Anyone interested in the free lessons can contact Bentz at 789-9279 to set up a time. The high school team works out Thursdays from 5:30-7 p.m. and Sundays from 4-7 p.m.
"I don't know if anyone will come, but I just want to do it," Bentz said.
Jeff Kasper can be reached at jkasper@juneauempire.com.