G-Prep’s Rathbone can play anywhere, anytime
When Gonzaga Prep takes the field this season, the baseball team is led by a senior who had trouble finding a position.
But that trouble had nothing to do with ability.
That’s because Jordan Rathbone can play virtually every position. He’s currently the team’s catcher and he’s added relief pitcher to his duties.
“He’s probably as versatile as anybody I’ve had,” coach Brian Munhall said. “He came in as an outfielder his freshman year. We actually tried him out at shortstop this year. There’s no spot he struggles at.”
Rathbone, who played linebacker for the football team, already has committed to play somewhere in the field for Gonzaga.
“They said I could either play catcher or outfielder. They’re not exactly sure,” the soft-spoken Rathbone said. “I wouldn’t say I like either one better. I am just hoping to see as much playing time as possible.”
Rathbone got promoted to the starting lineup late in his freshman season. As a sophomore, he batted .521 and was the Greater Spokane League’s leading hitter until the last game of the season.
As a junior and playing as a catcher for the first time, Rathbone hit .419 and led the team in most offensive categories, Munhall said.
This year, Rathbone said he just hopes to help his team win another GSL championship.
“We respect everybody we play. But we know we have an opportunity to win every game,” Rathbone said. “I love coming in and having a swagger about us. That’s definitely a great feeling.”
Munhall said Rathbone has an athleticism rarely seen at the catcher position and a big arm.
“That kills the run game. I know he’s going to block balls and handle our pitchers,” he said. “Sometimes games become a merry-go-round with wild pitches. But he’s a bulldog back there.”
Rathbone said being able to catch, play the outfield and pitch gives him a rare perspective.
“I love not being stuck to one position all the time,” he said. “You get to see the game from different angles. It helps you get to be a better baseball player.”