MJ’s Helland Joins Miller Express
Moose Jaw's Reece Helland in action with the Miller Express last season. (Photo: Marc Smith)
Despite not seeing any action on the field, this past year was a dream come true for Moose Jaw's Reece Helland.
Helland just completed his freshman season with Monterey Peninsula College in California and now he’s back in the Friendly City to suit up for another season with the Moose Jaw Miller Express.
"I've been looking forward to this since Christmas time, just can't wait to get back here and now I'm finally back, so hopefully I can get in the lineup and make a start here in Moose Jaw," said Helland.
Helland redshirted due to a shoulder injury, but he said he was still able to gain a lot from the season.
"I did the bullpen catching so I got to go on the road and that was a great experience, getting to work with all the guys, learn from them and the coaches so hopefully next year I can get that starting spot I want," said Helland.
The 19-year-old is heading into his third season in the Millers' organization, he appeared in four games last season, going 1-for-6 with a double, a walk and a run scored, while also pitching in one game, striking out two in one inning of work.
Helland said he's coming into this season more confident with a year of college baseball under his belt.
"I worked our third baseman every day, learned a lot," said Helland. "He taught me how to get to the ball in the hole, taught me about angles and then working in the cage a lot, me and him were in the cage two-three times a week.
"Learning from the sophomores and getting all the knowledge from them is great."
Helland wants to continue growing his game over the course of the next few months with the Millers.
"I want to get my defence down, hopefully, get a few at-bats and prove that I've got that pop still," he said.
Helland and the Millers are sitting at 4-3 on the year as they travel to Yorkton on Thursday night to take on the Cardinals. They will then finish their week with a home-and-home against the Regina Red Sox, which goes on Friday in Queen City and on Saturday at Ross Wells Park.
