Getting to Know: Adam Kolarek
Sometimes the devil that you do know is preferable over the one you don’t. That’s among the learning experiences Adam Kolarek took away from his 2017 season, when he made his MLB debut, and part of the reason he’s back with Tampa Bay.
Kolarek had a solid 2016 season with the Rays, but as a free agent elected to sign with Atlanta. Released in spring training, Kolarek was driving home on I-95 in North Carolina en route to Maryland to figure out his next step last March. Fortunately, the Rays called, Kolarek turned around and drove south to Port Charlotte, and eventually played for Triple-A Durham. By June 29th the sidearm lefty was appearing in his first MLB game.
“When I decided to go to Atlanta in Spring Training of last year, they told me a lot of good things, but things changed,” said Kolarek. “I had to adapt quickly and I was very fortunate that the (Rays) wanted me back right away, and I’ll be forever grateful for that.”
Kolarek eventually appeared in 12 games for the Rays, allowing nine hits and four walks over 8.1 innings. Kolarek says the experience helped him believe he can perform at the MLB level.
“I had my ups and downs, but I learned that I can survive it and now going forward what I can bring them next time I got that opportunity,” said Kolarek.
That opportunity was one which required a tremendous amount of perseverance for Kolarek, who made 320 appearance at the minor league level before he got his chance.
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And while he made just the 12 MLB appearances, there were some terrific memories, including pitching at Baltimore. Kolarek’s dad used to throw batting practice there to the Orioles, and Adam grew up blocks from Camden Yards.
That made for a special year, which culminated in marrying Melanie, his girlfriend of eight years. Kolarek was married the same November weekend as Andrew Kittredge, Austin Pruitt and Kevin Kiermaier.
“We have a very strong foundation,” said Kolarek. “She certainly did not know what she signed up for when we first started dating prior to me being drafted. It takes a special someone to go through the ups and downs with you and the long journey that can be known as the minor leagues.”
With Melanie’s support, Adam Kolarek now is reunited with his baseball family in Tampa Bay, and says it’s exciting that his pitching coach of the last two years in Durham, Kyle Snyder is now in that same role with the Rays.
“Anytime you get to be more comfortable just in the locker room already knowing guys, knowing the coaching staff, it helps ease all the nerves that can be a part of going through something for the first time,” said Kolarek. “If I have the opportunity this year … I really think I’ll be able to hit the ground running, and feel more comfortable right way, trust my ability and just go out there and pitch.”
Kolarek’s career took a turn in the right direction last year, and we’ll see if 2018 brings a return trip to Tampa Bay.
