Taylor Goshen has had to endure more than his share of ups and downs the past couple of years.
The 22-year-old native of Fort Wayne, Ind., had Tommy John surgery two years ago and wasn’t able to pitch last season.
“Learning curve would be how I would describe the season so far,’’ Goshen said. “I’m just getting back into it, learning how to compete again, learning how to do some of the simple stuff. Holding baserunners, executing strikes.’’
The Slammers’ rookie right-hander competed at a high level Sunday and nearly earned his first victory in his third start.
Goshen got himself out of two jams during his five shutout innings before Southern Illinois rallied against the bullpen for a 7-5, 11-inning victory at Joliet Route 66 Stadium.
“Today was a really good day for me,’’ Goshen said. “I’d like to add to it next time I get out there. It does a lot for my confidence. I can rise to the big moments, plus a lot of fun on top of it.’’
Goshen allowed four hits with one strikeout and no walks. He also hit two batters in his five innings.
“It was a good outing for him,’’ Slammers manager Jeff Isom said. “He scuffled a little bit. He’s learning a lot. This is his first professional season. I thought Cody Clark, our catcher, did a nice job of helping him along.’’
Goshen was signed by the Slammers from a March tryout held by the Evansville Otters. He pitched one season each at Wichita State and Iowa Western.
“He has a big arm,’’ Isom said. “He hasn’t pitched a whole lot. There’s going to be some lumps you end up taking. It’s a big difference between college baseball and this level. You’re seeing a lot of good hitters and you’ve got to learn how to set up hitters and do different things.’’
The Slammers (5-10) have dropped four of their last six games, but their offense has shown life with an 11-4 win Saturday and 12 hits on Sunday.
Shortstop Danny Zardon had three hits and an RBI and first baseman Justin Garcia was 2-for-4 with two RBIs on Sunday.
Goshen is confident the Slammers will overcome Sunday’s setback.
“It definitely hurts, but we’re going to rally,’’ he said. “We’re going to come back Tuesday and kick some butt. Keep the train rolling.’’
Tim Tierney is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
