Local Standout Cole Linton Enjoying Summer Ball Experience with Green Bay Rockers

GREEN BAY, WI — Former Goodland Cowboy and reigning KJCCC Pitcher of the Year Cole Linton is making waves in one of the nation’s top summer baseball leagues.

Linton, a standout at Cloud County Community College, is currently suiting up for the Green Bay Rockers of the Northwoods League — a prestigious summer collegiate baseball league that features top players from around the country. Playing in front of thousands of fans each night, Linton says the experience has been eye-opening and humbling.

“Playing against guys from places like UCLA, Arizona, and Florida State — it shows me where I want to be and what it takes to get there,” Linton told The Morning Blitz with Ross Volkmer in a recent interview.

Linton joined the Rockers mid-season and has already delivered some standout performances, including a six-out save in his debut and a recent outing in which he struck out the sons of former MLB stars Gary Sheffield and Mike Sweeney. “That was probably one of the coolest moments of my career so far,” he said.

The Northwoods League isn't just competitive — it’s quirky and fan-focused. Linton shared stories of promotional nights, including a game where the Rockers played as the “Green Bay Rollers” with toilet paper-themed jerseys, and another where he struck out the designated “beer batter,” triggering a stadium-wide beer discount and thunderous cheers.

Off the field, Linton is living with a host family and soaking in the minor-league-like lifestyle of daily travel, promotions, and autograph signings. “You’re on the go all day,” he said. “But it’s baseball every day — and there’s nothing better than that.”

Despite joining mid-season, Linton and the Rockers have already secured a playoff spot after winning the Northwoods League’s first-half divisional title. The postseason begins August 11, although Linton and several of his college teammates may have to return to Cloud County by then for the fall semester.

Still, Linton is soaking up every moment. “This league has taught me a lot — especially about consistency and trusting my stuff. It’s been a great way to grow my game.”