Steinbach, Raabe suit up for 'K'

By JIM BASTIAN

Journal Sports Writer

NEW ULM -- Homecomings are supposed to happen during the fall, topped off by a Friday night football game.

Last night, however, it was a homecoming of sorts for two New Ulm baseball players.

Terry Steinbach and Brian Raabe, two former New Ulm Kaiserhoff players, returned to their roots as they donned the green and gold.

"It's been a while," said Steinbach, who was penciled in to bat fourth and catch in the game against Victoria. "But I think that it is going to be fun. Playing again at Johnson Park brings back a lot of memories. So hopefully, we can have a good time and maybe even win a game."

The Kaiserhoff did just that, defeating Victoria 13-2 in seven innings.

Steinbach said that he had "a little apprehension" about his first game back, playing in front of hometown fans.

"Just for the fact that I have not worked out this year, and I don't know where I am baseball-wise yet. But we talked about this earlier, and it is really just to go out there and have some fun."

And the feeling was the same for Raabe who, like Steinbach, basically knows one or two players at the most on the current Kaiserhoff roster.

"I am really looking forward to the game," he said. "My career professionally is all over with; I realize that, but now I can finish my career where it all started and that is back here in New Ulm and at Johnson Park. It is a nice full-circle for me."

Raabe said that returning to New Ulm from Forest Lake where he lives, he "got a little bit of jitters coming down to the game.

"I am kind of apprehensive also; anytime that you put on that uniform you know that you are a competitive person."

Raabe said that he has not worked out prior to his first game with the Kaiserhoff. "When you are in the pros, you work out ever day. But now, I am basically picking up a ball and bat for the first time."

He said that it will be a little bit odd.

"I have no expectations; all that I want to do is go out and enjoy myself, have fun. This is a way to give back a little bit to New Ulm."

Raabe said that playing with new players on a New Ulm team will be different, but not unusual.

"When you play in the pros, you play with strangers. But I am a New Ulmite and I am happy to be back in New Ulm."

Like Raabe, Terry was also looking at a lot of new faces. Prior to the game he was introduced to his starting pitcher, Jared Visker.

Steinbach liked the confines of Johnson Park, though, as he went 4-for-4, scored three runs and drove in one. He blasted a solo home run with two out in the second inning. His other three hits were singles.

Raabe ended 2-for-3 with with two singles and two walks.