Desmond opts for IUP
BUTLER TWP — James Desmond wants to grow as a left-handed pitcher. So why not be coached by one?
The Butler senior will experience exactly that as he recently signed a letter of intent to continue his academic and baseball career at Indiana (Pa.) University. He is undecided on his major.
The Crimson Hawks are coached by Steve Kline, a former southpaw who pitched in the major leagues for 11 years. He spent 15 years as a pitching coach in the San Francisco Giants organization — last coaching at Class AA Richmond in 2020 — before accepting the IUP head coaching job last year.
While working in the minor leagues, Kline coached 100 players who eventually got to the majors.
“I’m looking forward to him working with me,” Desmond said. “Who better to learn from than another guy who throws left-handed and pitched for a long time at the highest level? I’m sure he can help my game.
“Coach Kline was one of the biggest reasons I chose IUP. He’s done a remarkable job turning that program around.”
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