Evan Rutckyj: O Canada

Baseball isn't just America's pastime anymore. Baseball has made it north of the border to Canada in a big way. Left-handed pitcher Evan Rutckyj, a native of Windsor, Ontario, is really making a name for himself in the New York Yankees farm system this year by playing with the Charleston RiverDogs.

"I really enjoy playing baseball in the United States," said Rutckyj (pronounced ROOT-ski). "It wasn't that hard of an adjustment. The sport is bigger over here (in America) but in Canada, lacrosse and hockey are the more popular sports."

He was selected by the Yankees in the 16th round of the 2010 First-Year Player Draft out of St. Joseph's Catholic High School in Windsor, Ont., where he was named a 2009 Under Armour High School All-American and played on the 2009 Canadian Junior National Team. He towers at 6-5, weighs 215 pounds and once had ambitions of making it to the National Hockey League.

"Growing up, I played hockey in the winter and baseball in the summer," Rutckyj explained. "When I was about 16, I knew I had to choose one and ultimately chose baseball."

The Yankees believe he made the correct decision.

This is Rutckyj's second season in Charleston and he, like all of his teammates, hopes to move up the next level.

"I just keep working hard and working with (pitching coach) Danny (Borrell)," said Rutckyj. "The biggest adjustment in playing pro ball is the amount of pitches you have to throw."

Because pitching is such a mental position, most pitchers take the day to mentally prepare.

"On gameday, I just really focus on my approach and make sure not to get too tense and go pitch-by-pitch," he said.

Rutckyj acknowledged the fact that professional baseball is where the best players from around the world can be found.

"I really love the competition because you're seeing the best of the best at each level you go to," said Rutckyj.

Like all young players, Rutckyj understands that he has his good days as well as his bad days. However, he plans on learning from both and continuing to work hard.

"I know I need to just keep working on commanding all my pitches and being more consistent," said Rutckyj. "I focus on my delivery and making sure I am throwing strikes."

Being in Canada during the off-season doesn't allow Rutckyj to run outside, so he keeps in shape by playing hockey which he states is good for his cardiovascular endurance. He also enjoys playing golf and hanging out with friends while at home.

At the All-Star break, Rutckyj has enjoyed a solid first half of the season as he's started eight of the 13 games he's pitched. He finished the first half with a 6-4 record and an ERA of 4.49 with 57 strikeouts and 26 walks.

The second half of the 2013 season is shaping up to be a bright one for the lefty.