For Clarkrange Buffaloes player CJ Pullins, baseball has always been more than just a game. It has been a regular staple of his life.
Pullins has spent more than 12 years on the diamond, dating back to his earliest days playing tee-ball and local town leagues. Pullins said those early experiences helped build not only his skills, but his love for the sport.
“If you can just focus and lock in, you really learn as you get older,” Pullins said. “I think it’s a skill you develop as you gain experience.”
Pullins said those early years were also defined by familiarity and fun.
“I was playing with a lot of friends that I knew,” Pullins said. “Just had a lot of fun. It’s how I learned how to love baseball.”
Now a four-year player at Clarkrange, Pullins has grown into one of the Buffaloes’ most versatile athletes. After beginning his high school career at first base, Pullins has expanded his role significantly. This season, he contributes as a pitcher, catcher, third baseman and shortstop.
Pullins said one moment that still stands out came early in his career. As a freshman, Pullins delivered a game-tying double in the bottom of the ninth inning, a moment that helped cement his confidence at the varsity level.
“I kind of felt a need to prove myself as a freshman,” Pullins said. “I was the only freshman starting, and so I kind of felt like I could finally compete with those guys. It gave me a lot of confidence.”
That confidence has continued to grow, especially on the mound. Pullins posted one of the team’s top earned run averages last season, emerging as a reliable pitching option for Clarkrange. During the offseason, Pullins said he focused on increasing his velocity, a key step in elevating his game even further. Pullins said his goal this season is to reach around 80 miles per hour on the mound, a benchmark that could make him even more effective as the Buffaloes continue to develop.
With years of experience, a willingness to adapt and a team-first mentality, Pullins continues to be a steady presence for Clarkrange, one shaped by both his early love for the game and his drive to keep improving.