DAVE KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette Williamsport Crosscutters infielder Cole Russo signs the shirt of Stevie Hunter, 3 of Williamsport as his mother Riley watches during Sunday’s “Meet the Cutters” event at Bowman Field.

It takes many unique qualities to succeed in the MLB Draft League. Doubly so in the first-half campaign, where ballplayers have barely a month to separate themselves from the rest in the eyes of scouts and coaches.

Even staying on the roster is a challenge, with more and more talent entering the league as the college baseball postseason concludes.

As the Draft League enters its third season of existence it becomes clear which attribute stands out in order for a young talent to succeed: versatility. With ever-changing talent moving in and out of the league, having the ability to stay consistent at a number of positions is the best form of job security through the hectic first half.

“If they get into pro ball, it’s gonna be the same type of deal,” said Williamsport Crosscutters manager Ryan Hanigan. “Throw a bunch of guys together and make a team. Get to know people and see some of the best guys in the country.”

One member of the opening day roster, infielder Cole Russo, is looking to provide the versatility Williamsport requires and, as the season begins, demands.

As the Crosscutters begin their 2024 season tonight with the first game of a three-game home series against Mahoning Valley at Bowman Field, they currently lack a primary catcher, with just seven current non-pitchers (five pitchers, two outfielders) on the roster as of Sunday’s media day.

With Williamsport desperate for an opening day catcher, the buzz around media day was that they will turn to Russo behind the plate for their opening series against Mahoning Valley.

“I caught when I was 11 and 12 years old, and started catching alot my junior and senior year of high school,” said Russo. “Then going into college I caught my freshman and sophomore year. I haven’t (played catcher) recently as of late so I’m just trying to get back there and get acclimated again. I caught bullpen today and everything felt pretty good. (I’m) gonna really work in the next couple days and polish up.”

A regular at Central Florida, Russo compiled a consistent .253 batting average with nine extra base hits and 14 RBIs with the AAC program this spring. Listed as an infielder with the Knights, Russo would play 26 games at second, 11 at catcher, and three at first.

The Sunshine State native also excelled last summer with the Sanford River Rats of the Florida Collegeiate Summer League, playing the second most games on the roster while sporting a .275 average, and an eye opening .420 on base percentage. His efforts, which were split defensively between six different positions during the campaign, helped lead the River Rats to a 19-13 record and a trip to the FCSL semifinals.

Russo’s versatility will hope to bring an impact to a Crosscutter team trying to get off on the right foot this week.

“I’ve played two summers in the summer league, and now out here, so I’m really excited. I’m excited for the opportunity to come here and compete with the best players in the country. This league is something I’ve been really excited and looking forward to this year,” stated Russo.

“Everything looks great,” Russo added. “Field looks beautiful. Everyone in the clubhouse has been welcoming. It’s a little different temperature. I’m use to being very hot and humid. I woke up this morning and the weather was beautiful. … It’s a bit of a culture change.”

With the season starting tonight, Williamsport will look for a rebound with new bats, new pitchers, and a mostly new coaching staff. As objectives for the first half are usually split between individual success and team success, Russo leaves no grey area on what he wants to achieve during his tenure with the Cutters.

“Just win,” commanded Russo. “Team first is something I’m really big on. Coming out here winning, and competing, that’s the biggest thing out here for me.