From the Dugout
It’s Playoff Time!
Dear Johnnie Baseball Family and Friends,
This is what the entire season builds toward—the opportunity to compete when it matters most. Our Johnnies have earned the #3 seed in the MIAC Tournament and will take on Macalester on Thursday night at 7:00 PM.
The tournament will be held at CHS Field in St. Paul, and we’re excited for the chance to compete in that environment. Here is the link to the tournament- MIAC Playoffs
There’s a different energy this time of year. We’re looking forward to the opportunity in front of us and embracing everything that comes with playoff baseball.
Go Johnnies!
Scott Lieser
Head Baseball Coach, Saint John’s University
Slieser@csbsju.edu
https://gojohnnies.com/sports/baseball
⚾ Inside the Program
The month of May brings a lot into focus for our program.
We honored our nine seniors during Senior Day on May 2 before our doubleheader. This group has meant a great deal to our program, and we’re thankful for the leadership, commitment, and impact they’ve had on Johnnie Baseball. They’ve enhanced the standard for what it means to be part of this program.
Another important piece of our program is our varsity reserve schedule. Playing against junior college, post grad, and other varsity reserve teams allow all of our players the opportunity to get game action throughout the season. It’s been a valuable part of our development as a team and continues to give guys opportunities to compete and improve.
We’re also entering the final week of classes, with finals next week. Our players continue to balance the demands of academics and baseball, and this time of year requires strong discipline both on the field and in the classroom.
🎤 Senior Spotlight: Collin Kray
What’s your name, position, and major at Saint John’s?
Collin Kray, 1st Base, Chemistry
Collin Kray
Where are you from, and what high school did you attend?
Little Falls, MN – Little Falls Community High School
What made you choose Saint John’s University and Johnnie Baseball?
I chose Saint John’s for many reasons. My dad went here, so I grew up coming to football games and other events on campus. Those experiences, along with the beautiful athletic facilities, are what drew me to Saint John’s and Johnnie Baseball.
What does being a part of Johnnie Baseball mean to you?
It means being part of a tradition. It’s a tradition of success and winning, but more importantly one of developing leaders in the classroom and in future careers. There are strong connections within Johnnie Baseball, and being part of that is something special.
How has Johnnie Baseball helped you grow as a person?
It has challenged me to balance academics and baseball, which has helped me improve my time management and responsibility. It has also given me opportunities to grow as a leader.
How do you lead as a senior?
I try to lead by example. It’s hard to lead a team if you’re not setting the standard yourself.
What are your goals for your final season?
Win the MIAC conference tournament.
What’s next after graduation?
I plan to take a gap year working as a medical scribe before attending medical school.
Advice for younger players?
You get what you give. The effort you put in—both on the field and in the classroom—will determine your success.
What will you miss most?
Spending every day with my teammates and best friends.
Hidden talent or hobby?
Hunting and fishing.
🧢 Where Are They Now? John Fischer ’85
Years played / position:
1982–1985 | Third base, pitcher
Favorite memories:
John recalls countless great memories, but one that stands out for him is the 1983 spring trip. The team loaded up vans with equipment and “road sandwiches” and headed south, only to get stuck in a blizzard in Wayne, NE. After two days and no games, the team returned to Collegeville without playing. The following seasons’ “southern trip” ended up being games in the Metrodome.
Life after SJU:
John pursued accounting after graduation, becoming a CPA and spending his career in both smaller and regional firms before retiring a few years ago.
John Fischer
Baseball today:
John remains heavily involved in American Legion baseball in New Ulm, contributing through coaching and administration. The program reflects many of the same values as Johnnie Baseball—commitment, discipline, and playing the game the right way. A few years ago, John was inducted to the New Ulm American Legion Baseball Hall of Fame.
What Johnnie Baseball means:
Strong lifelong connections, John says. He and his teammates still gather regularly, including golf outings and tailgating at games. He noted how proud alumni can be of the current state of the program and facilities—“Once a Johnnie, always a Johnnie.”
Fun Fact: John has identical twin boys, Garrett and Kyle. They both were standout baseball players at St. Cloud State University where they played with coach Brian Hansen and me. It’s fun when baseball or any sport can bring families together. Brain and I remain very close with the Fischer brothers and their families.
📸 Johnnies in Action
Follow us on social media:
Instagram – @sjubaseball
X (Twitter) – @SJU_Baseball
Facebook – @SJU Baseball
📬 Spread the Word
Feel free to forward this newsletter to anyone who wants to be part of the Johnnie Baseball family!
Coach’s Final Word
Graduation for our nine seniors will take place on May 16th, marking an important milestone for this group. They’ll always be a part of our program.
Personally, I’ve learned a great deal this year as a first-year head coach—through both the ups and the challenges. It’s been a rewarding experience, and I’m grateful for the people in this program who make it special.
Now, the focus turns fully to the playoffs. We’re excited for the opportunity ahead and ready to compete.
It would be great to see you in the stands at CHS Field cheering us on.
Go Johnnies! ⚾