2019 Free Agent SS/MI Doug Ruble
Doug Ruble
Interview conducted on 12/6/2016
Who are you playing with in 2019?
2017 Free Agent – ruble170@gmail.com
2018 Pauer Sports/JBL/Tailgaters/B&E
What positions do you play and what is your best position?
I can play any position in the infield along with roaming around in center field. Most comfortable at SS or in the middle
Who is the best softball player you have ever seen play?
I haven't been in the upper level at all but along the way a couple guys stick. Tom Paturzo as a hitter no doubt. Ryan Parfitt as an outfielder and a true hustler. As far as a pitcher I think Justin Mooch Muciarelli is the best hands down. Played with and against these three so they stick out at this moment
Why do you like the game of softball?
It's a big stress reliever, it keeps the old young at heart and competition is always a must is any sport
Who is the best up and coming player in softball and why?
Chris Costantino is very very good, great hitter and fielder and off the field good guy. Also like Parfitt, although not sure if he still plays or not
What is your nickname in softball and how did you get it?
I don't have a nickname just go by Doug or Rube
What is your height and weight?
I'm only 5'6" on a good day and 175lbs
Where do you call home?
I live in Selinsgrove, PA
What's your favorite way to spend an off weekend?
Always spending time with family and/or hunting just bc it's that time of year
What do you do for a living?
I am a finish carpenter. Interior trim, tile, and hardwood installer
Did you play sports in High School / College / Pro?
I played basketball, football and baseball in high school. Went to junior college at Allegany College of MD for two years then received a full scholarship to West Virginia Wesleyan.
How did you get your start in softball and how did you get to the upper level?
I started years ago just to spend time with my father playing e/d. Went to a tourney in Syracuse NY and was offered a spot to play on a team out of Maryland at Sunfest. Which used to be a great tourney. Followed up by playing with a b team called Sunrise Pools. Then went to Angle Inn Easton
What was the most surprising difference between Conference play and non-Conference play when you made the jump?
Obviously the pitching and defense is the biggest difference along with politics
Is there a player that you would compare your game to?
I would like to say I have a very very good glove. I feel I don't care who hits it I'm fielding it. But in general we are all different.
What would you say is your career highlight to this point? Maybe one play or game that sticks out to you in particular?
There's no one thing that sticks to me as far as games or plays because after so long they all run together.
In your career was there a single person (player/manager/coach) who had the most significant impact on your approach to the game? Why?
I like being around the older guys in softball and hear there stories and opinions on the game and how it has evolved. My college baseball coach was hands down the most informative guy I've been around. Steve Bazarnic
What advice can you give a young player trying to break into the upper level?
It's all In if you want it and how bad. It's underhand but you still have to put in work.
What type of batting grip do you use and what ounce bat?
Baseball grip 26 oz balanced or endload
What do you do in the offseason to prepare for the next softball season?
Workout in the gym on flexibility, coordination and bp along with ground balls
What is your favorite sports team and your favorite sport other than softball?
I like watching football, of course my team is horrible right now but still a fan…..da bears
Do you have any superstitions and if so, what are they?
I always like taking the last infield ball before a game
What would be your "at bat" music selection?
Something old school, prefer to be calm going up to bat rather than all hyped up!
What is the best improvement upper level softball could make?
It's hard to say, everyone has there opinions from balls, to bats, to players, just have fun
What is your favorite non-World tournament and why?
I like playing in the mojo in early March in Ohio
What is the best softball field/complex you have played at and why?
Berliner Park in Columbus Ohio is very nice with turf. Oklahoma City for Asa is very nice as well!!
Where is the best place to eat on the road after a game?
Chickfila along with sonic for quick fix. Roadhouse with teammates if time permitting
What is the funniest thing you have ever seen on a softball field?
Multiple times watching guys hitting what they thought was a homerun only to have it caught after they eeeiuuuppppp it!
What was your favorite sports related gift you have ever given or received?
It feels great getting my kids there first ball gloves or bats.
Doug making some great plays at the 2015 ASA 'B'
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