Record Doesn't Reflect Shulman's Summer Surge

After taking a quick glance at Jordan Shulman's record, one might not realize that the Agoura High pitcher has been one of the top hurlers this summer in the Valley Invitational Baseball League.  

Losses in two of his five starts, and no wins during that stretch, could be perceived as a failure up to this point. But when looking closer at the numbers, the reality is that he's been a victim of some bad luck.  

"Jordan hasn't had much run support, but that hasn't discouraged him from going out there and doing his job,'' Chargers coach Dennis Reitz said. "He doesn't blame anyone either. He's accountable for his actions and we like that about him. He has a bright future and we're exciting to see him get better and better.''   

A roster of experienced players held Shulman back from competing at the varsity level for the Chargers last season. But he has taken full advantage of the opportunity that's been presented to him this summer.  

Getting off to a fast start in June helped build confidence in Shulman, who didn't give up an earned in his first four starts. Canyon was the first team to score a legitimate run on him and that happened on Monday, in his fifth start of the summer, following solid efforts against Moorpark, Mission Hills Alemany twice and first-place West Ranch.  

In 18 2/3 innings, Shulman has given up 13 hits and struck out 17 batters. Opponents are batting .176 against him and his .375 ERA is second best in the VIBL, behind Scott Heineman from Crespi at .368.  

"I'm starting to feel more and more comfortable. Nothing is holding me back,'' Shulman said. "My job is to step to the mound and throw strikes. I know that if I can do that out there, everything else will take care of itself. ''  

The Chargers lost their first seven games, but have turned things around since. They've won two of their past three games and pose a threat to foes every time Shulman is scheduled to make a start.  

The emergence of Shulman couldn't have come at a better time for the Chargers considering they lost several members of their rotation to graduation.  

Zach Mercer, the ace of the staff last season, is gone. So is workhorse Patrick Brennan. Agoura also moves forward without the services of key contributors such as Clay Quina, Keaton Himsl, Maxx Feldman and David Seibold.  

"My goal is to be one of the top pitchers on this team,'' Shulman said. "I like pressure, and if I get the chance, I want to prove I can do the job. I like to compete and want to be the best. I'm going to work on improving so I can be the ace.''  

All signs point to Shulman being able to assume some type of role, possibly a prominent one, on the mound for Agoura next season.  

In the meantime, it's reasonable to expect more to the same from him. This summer, he's given the Agoura coaching staff no reason to think otherwise.