Jase Schueller, a 2022 & 2023 Black Bears alum, played a key role in bringing playoff baseball back to the Cowlitz community. The right handed hurler out of Vanguard University was lights out coming out of the bullpen as he anchored down a Black Bears pitching staff that ranked top 5 in the West Coast League in shutouts, ERA, and walks allowed. In 2023, the Kelso native posted a 1.38 ERA which ranks 3rd all-time in the Black Bears record books.
During the Black Bears 2023 playoff run, Schueller came into game one in the top of the 9th and shut down the Corvallis Knights offense with two shutout innings. The dominant performance set up the Black Bears for the eventual walk off in the bottom of the 10th inning, awarding Shueller with the first playoff win in team history. When asked about his favorite memory from the 2023 season, Schueller recalled “…completing the comeback against the Corvallis Knights in game one of the playoffs…”
Although the 2023 season may have ended short of a championship, the thrill of playoff baseball will carry on in the memories of the next generation of Black Bears fans. For many, the Black Bears represent more than just a team, they’re a symbol of hard work and dedication that bring excitement to the game of baseball. Shueller said, “Growing up watching the Black Bears was my first true taste of what competitive baseball looks like. It was an unforgettable experience to watch and play for the Black Bears.”