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Pearland Pitcher Jake Mader-Cooper
TRUSTING THE PROCESS: Pearland’s Mader-Cooper a piece to winning puzzle
Several of the usual suspects for Pearland -- LHP Caden Ferraro (Texas A&M-signee), LF Brett Smajstrla (Sam Houston) and SS Anthony Avalos (Houston) -- have been enjoying stellar seasons.
However, one name that’s flown under the radar is junior RHP/MIF Jake Mader-Cooper, who has relished the opportunity to play for Pearland.
Photo by Lloyd Hendricks of Hendricks Rockography
“I’m honored to be a part of such a great group of players and the community surrounding us,” said Mader-Cooper. “Everyone puts in the work every day and lifts each other up. Our group is very hungry and it helps that we have so much talent on the team.”
Mader-Cooper is one of the many standouts residing in the Oilers bullpen, which has been a key contributor to Pearland’s success thus far.
“We have put a lot of trust in our coaching staff and have just been having fun,” he said. “We are such a close group that can have fun while we put the work in. As a whole, we’re playing unselfish baseball and we’re manufacturing runs with key people making big plays. Whether it be through bunts, stealing bases or just getting a hit, we’re doing everything we can to help the team reach our goal of a State Title.”
Photo by Lloyd Hendricks of Hendricks Rockography
Mader-Cooper’s baseball journey was initiated by the influence of his family during his childhood, which has driven the Pearland junior the whole way.
“I have been playing from a young age and just fell in love with the game,” Mader-Cooper said. “My parents were both Division 1 athletes and put me in the position to be the best that I can be. I think the most important aspect is loving me and trusting the process. You just need to enjoy the journey and trust that your hard work will pay off.”
It seems that the process has been working, considering Mader-Cooper committed to play for Rice once he graduates a year from now.
“I committed to Rice my sophomore year since I really liked the coaching staff,” he said. “Coach [José] Cruz [Jr.] is a great influence and I’m looking forward to playing for him. Rice is also a great school, academically, and the current players there have said good things.”
Photo by Lloyd Hendricks of Hendricks Rockography
And what future does the Rice-commit see for himself?
“I hope to be in the minor or major leagues one day, or perhaps in medical school,” said Mader-Cooper. “God has a plan for me and I’m just here to follow his lead and give 100-percent in everything I do.”
Anticipate an exceptional regular season finish for Mader-Cooper and Pearland Baseball, as that will only be the beginning.