Knable to continue career at PSU-DuBois

Husky joins teammates with Lions

LEWISTOWN--Mifflin County's Cole Knable has been a part of some big moments in his baseball career, perhaps none bigger than stepping onto the rubber in the middle of a jam.

Knable earned a reputation over the years as a valuable relief pitcher with a stellar glove in the outfield. This past summer, Knable showcased those skills, hitting .293 with a .442 on-base percentage, three doubles and a triple. He also drove in six runs.

On the mound his prowess for fanning flames kept Mifflin County around in some of its toughest games during last summer's Independent League season.

Knable finished 2020 with a 2.89 ERA in 15 innings, with 10 strikeouts and one walk. It was his ability to dance out of danger that is especially impressive to Mifflin County coach John McGonigle.

In a game at Armagh Field in Milroy, Knable worked out of a tough bases-loaded jam, getting the final three outs to keep Mifflin County in the game, before the team rallied to score the winning runs.

"Cole loves coming into the game in relief," McGonigle said. "It is great having a guy that thrives in those relief situations when you have guys on and need a big pitch or an out. When he is out there, you never see him get down or waiver, he just keeps on grinding. He never tries to do too much on the mound."

One of Knable's fondest memories was a relief appearance as a member of the Mifflin County Babe Ruth 15-year-old All-Star team.

"My proudest and most memorable moment was coming in relief against West End as a 15-year-old and we had to beat them twice to go to the World Series," Knable said. "I came in with the bases loaded and no outs, we got out of the jam but we were down at the time. We tied it up and sent it to extra innings. I ended up pitching six or seven innings and we won. We then had a rain delay and we played the championship game in front of the biggest crowd I've ever played in front of. Looking around and seeing all the blue was amazing, everyone standing up and cheering for the last out was so loud and I will never forget how it felt."

Knable's unique versatility in center field and on the mound makes him a valuable piece for college coaches, and after gaining some attention from multiple schools, Knable decided to continue his playing career at Penn State-DuBois. Knable is the fourth member of the current Huskies' senior class that will play for the PSU branch campus, including Bryce Dobson, Colby Bodtorf and Connor Cherry.

"Penn State-DuBois just felt right from the beginning," Knable said. "I loved the campus and the tight-knit community they have there. Coach (Tom) Calliari was really helpful and I can't wait to play at Showers Field."

While Knable could find some time in the field, he projects more as a pitcher at the college level at this time and his skillset will allow him to thrive.

"On the mound he has put a lot of time in to perfect his craft," McGonigle said. "He has worked hard to continue to develop his slider which is his best pitch. Then locating the fastball allows him to set up batters."

Trying to find a spot on a roster in college was a test without a junior high school baseball season, but Knable took the challenges in stride.

"The Recruiting process was interesting," Knable said. "Without having varsity tape or lots of stats it was much more difficult, but with the help from coach (John) McGonigle and my former Coach Justin Yoder -- they really made it less stressful and I knew this was the right decision."

Other schools that Knable considered included Juniata College and Lancaster Bible College.

"Playing college baseball has been a dream of mine for many years, ever since I was little," Knable said. "This is truly a dream come true and Im happy its at PSU-DuBois. "It is going to be really exciting to continue to play with these great ball players for a few more years, It is really nice to know that I will be playing ball with some familiar faces."

Knable has grown into a leadership role within the Mifflin County program and McGonigle spoke highly of his team-first mentality.

"Cole is what you would call a complete team player," McGonigle said. "He goes out and always competes no matter the situation. He is someone that will step up and help the younger guys. He will do anything you ask him and just wants to do whatever it takes to help the team in any fashion. I think many of the younger guys especially look up to Cole and how he handles himself on and off the field."

For a Huskies team that returns a strong core of key contributors, Knable is setting some big goals for the 2021 season.

"My goals are just to play the best ball I can, We all know what we are capable of we just have to do our jobs," Knable said. "A district championship and a run in the state playoffs would be something I think we can achieve."

Knable thanked his family and coaches as well as every member of the community that has supported baseball in the community in recent years for his success.

"I really have to give so much credit to my father and my brothers for putting baseball in my life and setting me up for success at a young age," Knable said. "My brothers have always been there to help make me better, and are really big supporters in my baseball experience. My mom's support is like no other. Her coming to my games and always making sure I have everything I need to be successful in this sport. I can't thank my family enough.

"I'd also like to thank all my coaches from Coach pitch until now, they are the reason I am here in my career," Knable continued. "Coach Justin Yoder has made the biggest impact on me and really helped advance me as a baseball player and most importantly a pitcher. We really have a great community here in Mifflin County and seeing friends at the games means a lot. They are always so supportive."

McGonigle and the Huskies coaching staff congratulated Knable on his opportunity.

"The entire Mifflin County High School coaching staff would like to congratulate Cole and his family on his commitment to Penn State-DuBois," McGonigle said. "We wish him nothing but the best as he continues his academic and athletic career."