BRYAN RUDDER’S AUSTIN ISOM IS DANGEROUS IN THE BATTER’S BOX. LITERALLY, DANGEROUS.
The ball exits his bat at 98.4 miles per hour, one of the top speeds in Texas.
“I played every sport as a kid,” he said. “I even played varsity football as a freshman here at Rudder, but it just wasn’t for me. My path has been baseball ever since.
“My strength is obviously hitting. I just have so much confidence at the plate. I’m never intimidated by who I’m facing because I know I have the talent and ability to get the job done. I just focus.”
The all-district returner has high expectations for his team this season as they compete for the postseason.
“This is the team to do it,” he said. “The coaches are really invested, and we have the talent to get in the playoffs in this new district. That’s my goal.”
The junior outfielder has lofty goals for himself as well.
“My dream is to play for a big Division I school like Texas A&M or Texas,” he said. “I’ve always loved those schools. I just want to get on that stage and get drafted. I’m very committed to my craft. I work out, work in the batting cage, hang out with my family and girlfriend, and stay to myself. I know what I’m working for.”
His favorite player?
“It would have to be Dylan Cruz, the Washington Nationals centerfielder,” he said. “I pattern my game after him.”
As the baseball season nears, the crack of the bat gets louder—none more deafening than that of Austin Isom’s.