The Dutchmen are currently hotter than summer itself, going 6-0 last week and surging back into first place. And no one’s bats have been sizzling quite like those of Anthony Marks. The Coastal Carolina product has hit in 9 straight games, batting .333 over that span. Remarkably, his average has actually decreased since the streak started - he’s now hitting a mere .373 on the season.

And yet, having started just 9 games as a freshman, Anthony knows that there is always room for improvement.

“I’m focusing on increasing my speed and my arm strength,” Marks stated. “I’m hoping next year I can go from a part-time player to an everyday player.”

Marks has become just that for the Dutchmen. Given the leadoff responsibility by Coach Nick Davey, Marks has responded by leading the team in hits and stolen bases, and is tied for the team lead in runs scored. Defensively, Anthony has been solid, committing just one error while recording 3 outfield assists.

Although it is the first time in Albany for Marks, he can take comfort in seeing some familiar faces. Marks and Zach Remillard are college teammates, while Will Remillard, Zach‘s older brother, attended Coastal Carolina prior to signing with the Chicago Cubs. Will, a former Dutchmen All-Star, has been around giving advice and encouragement to the current Albany players before he reports to the Cubs’ Class-A affiliate in Boise, ID.

Anthony has also made the most of his time off the diamond this summer.

“Working with the kids at the baseball camp was really cool,” Marks recalled excitedly. "And we just had a get together with all of the host families. I hope we get to do that again.”

Keep that hitting streak going long enough, Anthony, and we’ll even let you pick when and where.