Redman off to hot start for Crusaders

Right-handed pitcher Andrew Redman has carried over his mound dominance from last summer as a Rambler to this spring as a Clarke University Crusader. Redman has won all four of his starts in 2013 - his first year as a Crusader. He was recently named the Midwest Collegiate Conference Pitcher of the Week.

Through 20 innings of work, Redman has fanned 25 hitters and allowed only five runs on 15 hits and five walks. The junior, a former Iowa Central Community College hurler, sports an ERA of 1.35. His 10.71 strikeouts per nine innings rank 20th among all NAIA pitchers nationally.

Last summer Redman starred as one of the top pitchers on the Eastern Iowa semi-pro circuit. He went 8-1 with a 1.35 ERA in 60 innings pitched. He allowed only 35 hits and 20 walks to go along with 62 punch outs.

Dan Spain, a member of the Ramblers since 2007, is in his first full season as head coach at Clarke. Another Rambler, Sean O'Connor, serves as the Crusader pitching coach.

Rambler steak fundraiser to support 'Ride for Kids'

Not only will the Key West Ramblers' steak dinner fundraiser support team financial needs, it will also raise money for Ride for Kids. The Ride for Kids organization serves to "eliminate the challenges of childhood brain tumors by funding medical research and family support programs."

As part of the April 7 fundraiser at Kalmes Restaurant, Rambler players will tend bar with all tips going to Ride for Kids. The steak dinner fundraiser is set to run from 4-8 p.m. See additional details in the previous blog post.