Athlete Spotlight: Cam Fisher
Jose Rodriguez '24, Staff Writer | Media & Communications
SALEM, Mass.- Salem State Athletics is highlighting MASCAC Rookie of the Week Cam Fisher (Burlington, Conn.). Fisher was named MASCAC Rookie of the Week after pitching five shutout innings, allowing just four hits with three strikeouts while not allowing a walk as Salem State clinched the top seed in the MASCAC Tournament with a 15-0 win over MCLA.
The freshman compared this player of the week with the one he won earlier this year. "It's hard to compare the two since there are a lot of good freshmen in this conference, so I'm just blessed to be able to get both achievements."
He communicated what was working well for him against MCLA this past weekend. "My slider was working for me that day. I got a lot of swings and misses from it." He added on what pitch he felt most comfortable using throughout the game. "My slider felt very comfortable for me that day. [I] had a lot of good movement, and I got a lot of swings and misses from it." He also added what other pitches he felt comfortable throwing during the game. The fastball was definitely the go-to that game. I was able to beat them with it, and EJ [Field] called a good game behind the dish to keep them on their toes."
The Burlington, Conn. native expressed how important it is to stay locked in with his catcher throughout the game. "It's very important, it keeps you engaged with the pitch calling and the situational awareness with runners on base."
Fisher talked about finishing the regular season on a six-game win streak "It's huge for us. It's a big confidence boost and put us into a good spot headed into playoffs." He also added about going 6-0 in his eighth start in the regular season in his first year as a Viking "I've felt good on the mound, but a huge shoutout to the offense that has averaged nine runs a game for me. It says a little about me as a player, but it couldn't have been done without God. He has blessed me with the opportunity to play and compete for this team."
Fisher elaborated what he has seen from his teammates lately. "I see a lot of confidence and a good work ethic. No one is taking a day off and we are all continuing to put in work to keep on competing headed into the playoffs." He also added what kind of preparation he is doing for the MASCAC playoffs that are set to begin this Thursday. "I'm making sure the body stays active and healthy. Really working on staying sharp so I can compete and do my best for the team."
Fisher mentioned his routine on a day that he has to start on the mound. "I make sure I'm hydrated, have plenty of good food in me and make sure my body is properly prepared for pitching." He added the difference between his off-season versus in-season routines. "During the off-season I like to hit the weights hard and build up the body to prepare it for the season workload. In season I try and maintain my strength and weight and put a huge emphasis on arm care."
He expressed how he can make a difference on this Vikings' squad. "By being a good team player and supporting my teammates. As a starting pitcher, I only pitch once a week so being loud in the dugout and keeping up the energy from the start. Also, keeping my arm healthy so I can pitch a lot of quality innings this year and let the offense do the rest."
The freshman talked a little about his pre-game rituals on the day that he is starting on the mound. "I put my airpods in two hours before I'm at the field and lock in with my pre-game playlist. Once I get to the field I clear my mind, no one talks to me, and I just focus on stretching out."
What he wants to work on during the course of the season. "I need to keep working on staying ahead in the count. I get up 1-2 strikes on a batter and don't execute the next pitch or two and fall back even. I got to get ahead and stay ahead in counts."
His favorite MLB player is Boston Red Sox legend David Ortiz. Who influenced him most in his life. "My dad. He has always been there giving me advice about the game and life. He's always told me to keep a level head when I get frustrated with baseball."
Fisher and the Vikings will host a MASCAC quarterfinal game this Thursday at The Central Campus Baseball Field. Game time is scheduled at 2:30 p.m.