Captain's Log for Friday, July 10th

July 10, 2015 - Northwoods League (Northwoods)
Alexandria Blue Anchors News Release


9 Innings with Michael Riekerk

Prior to the 2015 season, the Northwoods League and the College Baseball League Europe came to the agreement which would send the top six European players to the United States to play in 2015. A draft was held during the fall meetings and the Blue Anchors had the fourth selection. With that pick, they took catcher Michael Riekerk from Rotterdam, Netherlands. In 13 games he has scored twice and walked four times. He was kind enough to sit down and answer some questions about his transition to the United States.

Inning 1

Andy Johnson: What did you initially think about playing in the United States this summer?

Michael Riekerk: This was my first big stay in the States for playing baseball. So I saw it as a big chance to show myself over here and get some extra experience.

Inning 2

AJ: What has been the biggest adjustment for you on the field?

MR: The biggest adjustment is being on the field everyday. Instead of being 3-4 times per week on the field. And not just for 2-3 hours but almost the entire day.

Inning 3

AJ: What do you think about Minnesota so far?

MR: Minnesota is very nice. Just traveling with the bus shows a lot of Minnesota. Too bad I can't see more of it because of our busy schedule.

Inning 4

AJ: What has been the biggest adjustment for you off the field?

MR: Off the field it is awesome to meet other the people and hanging out with the guys. The best part of it is that I improve my English everyday and that is a thing I can use when I'm back!

Inning 5

AJ: What's your ultimate goal as a baseball player?

MR: Biggest goal is to gain extra experience to bring home. If it is possible I would like to go to college over here.

Inning 6

AJ: What's something that you want other people to know about Michael Riekerk?

MR: I am willing to learn everyday! I will play ball as long as I can. And I just want to say even with health problems(Hip surgery) in my youth you can still make your way into sports.

Inning 7

AJ: What's been the highlight of your summer thus far?

MR: Being able to play for the team! And meeting my host family is a cool thing also.

Inning 8

AJ: How is life different from the Netherlands versus the United States?

MR: The biggest difference is that everything is so much bigger over here. People have such different standards.

Inning 9

AJ: Any new foods you've tried you wish you could take back to Europe?

MR: I got a Dairy Queen cake for my birthday by my host family! That was a pretty good cake.

Upcoming

The Blue Anchors will be back home on Saturday, July 18th against the Rochester Honkers. It's a doubleheader that day starting at 6:05 pm. Tickets will be good for both seven-inning ballgames.



Northwoods League Stories from July 10, 2015


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