Kal Simmons (Kennesaw State) plays in the same conference as Kevin Fagan (Stetson) and isn’t ever surprised at the way Fagan grinds. Now that the two are wearing the same uniform and a string of injuries has made them an almost everyday pairing in the middle infield, Simmons has seen more of the player he already knew. 

“I’ve seen this guy before and have seen how hard he plays every day,” Simmons said after a 13-8 loss to Harwich on Tuesday night. “It’s really nice to go out there and play next to someone who you know wants to be out there.”

After starting at second at Orleans on opening night, Fagan joined a group of utility infielders that included Blake Butera (Boston College), Mitchell Gunsolus (Gonzaga) and Garrett Hampson (Long Beach State). But with Chatham banged up, primarily at second base, Fagan has nestled into an everyday spot on the right side and is finding a groove as a result. Not only is he the heir apparent to the team’s knack for turning double plays, but he’s also hit a stride at the bottom of the Anglers’ order. 

Fagan has collected a hit in each of Chatham’s (12-11-1) last four games, including two doubles, three RBIs and a run scored. If he gets another start Wednesday, he’ll look to further elevate his play against Wareham (7-17) at Veterans Field at 7 p.m.

“Playing every day is allowing me to figure things out at the plate and settle in, no doubt about it,” Fagan said. “I think it’s about repetition here and seeing pitches every day, and I’m glad I can do that and help the team.”

What may be Fagan’s most valuable asset is one he hasn’t showcased in his recent stretch of play. He’s been inserted into four straight lineups as a second baseman, but he can play more than one infield spot and is sure-handed in the outfield. He even pitched for Stetson this past spring, throwing 28.2 innings and making four starts to the tune of a 2.51 ERA. 

Anglers manager John Schiffner has lauded Fagan for his versatility and has kicked around the idea of working him onto the mound. But for the time being, the Swiss Army knife remains a steadying presence in a cycling infield. 

Said Schiffner: “He’s a guy I can do a lot with and that’s great for a manager.”

Broadcast information    

Broadcast coverage of the Anglers and Gatemen begins at 6:40 p.m. with the Anglers Extra Pregame Show. Watch and listen on TRZ Teamline or listen by phone 1-800-846-4700, code 3481. Visit Broadcast Central for more information.