Feature: LHP Collin Floyd 

NILES, OH - Just a couple of weeks ago, Collin Floyd was leading the Youngstown State Penguins into the Horizon League playoffs. Tonight, Floyd took the bump for the Scrappers, and was able to keep the momentum of he had in his historic senior season going with a dominant outing. The local standout made his Scrappers debut in a start against the Frederick Keys. Floyd tossed a strong four innings allowing only one earned run off two hits and two walks while striking out seven. The lefty was named Horizon League Pitcher of the Year for the 2021 season. On top of that, Floyd was a leader on one of the best teams in university history, boasting a (9-4) record while striking out 108. He accumulated a 2.58 ERA over 101.1 innings pitched (YSUSports).

Floyd grew up in nearby Akron, Ohio attending Springfield High School. When asked about playing in front of local fans Floyd said he can’t wait.

“I couldn’t be more excited to play in the draft league, especially for my hometown team. I’ve played my whole career at Eastwood Field, and to be able to play on my home field is really a blessing,” he said.

The 23-year-old feels like he can bring a lot to the team since he is the oldest player on the active roster, and has a lot of experience.

“I know I’ll be playing around a lot of talented guys, but I think my adaptability and experience will be my best attributes to help the team win. Wherever the coaches want me to play I’ll play even if it’s something I’m not used to,” he said. “Also, I’ll probably be one of the oldest guys on the team, so based on my experience I’ll be able to help younger guys who still have more years of ball to play. At the same time, I look forward to learning from them as well.”

The 6 '4 left-hander totes four-seam and two-seam fastballs, he also has lethal off speed pitches touting a changeup and slider. Floyd throws 86-89 MPH and said he likes to model his game after major league lefties Wade Miley and Jon Lester.

Since Floyd doesn't have overpowering stuff, he emphasized how important control is, along with getting ahead in the count early. He also credited his college catcher Nick Caruso for a lot of his success.

“I would say my key to success as a pitcher is strike efficiency and expanding the zone when I need to. Being able to establish first pitch strikes and not work into deep counts has helped me put pressure on hitters, and keeps my pitch count down,” he said. “It allows me to work deeper into games, and force hitters to swing at pitches they might not want to swing at.”

Floyd said he wanted the fans to know that they should feel comfortable around him and not be afraid to have a conversation.

“There’s a lot to know about me, but if I had to choose one it would be I’m an easy-going guy. You can always come up to me and have a casual conversation with me,” he said.

For now, Floyd will be pitching for the Scrappers but hopes to get drafted in July’s MLB Draft. In the meantime you can catch him on the hill at Eastwood Field

The Scrappers are back at home on Saturday, June 6. It is a youth jersey giveaway presented by Armstrong to the first 500 fans 12 and under. There will also be post-game fireworks presented by Yuengling, MIX 98.9, and 21 WFMJ & WBCB. PURCHASE TICKETS HERE.

--Jordan Boitnott