Alex Bolmer wanted to take a new approach.

Last season, Bolmer struggled at times, as he compiled an overall 2-6 record with a 4.78 ERA with 36 walks and 36 strikeouts in 41 innings in eight starts and 10 games overall. Bolmer wasn’t helped because the team stumbled to an overall 3-17 season.

This season, Bolmer has turned it around, and his team has, too.

The righthander recently fired a two-hitter in a 5-1 victory over Lehighton in which he had a no-hitter through five innings. Bolmer finished the game with four strikeouts and two walks.

Against Lehighton, Bolmer has a good sense of command with his pitches.

“Of course,” noted Bolmer about his strong command. “I felt really confident with every pitch coming out of my hand and I knew that I had a good defense behind me so that did help with the pressure of throwing strikes.”

With that win, Bolmer raised his record to 3-2 with a 3.11 ERA in six starts over 33.2 innings. He has struck out 26 and walked 18. Heading into this week, the Rough Riders had a 6-6 record.

Bolmer sees the difference in his confidence and his team’s growth

“This year, I feel really confident compared to last year,” stated Bolmer. “My mindset changed completely, straight positivity and no negativity. The biggest thing that changed with us from last year to this year is that we are now a collective team and not individuals on a team.”

During the summer, Bolmer played for the Catasauqua Connie Mack team. He went 2-3 with a 3.81 ERA over 51 innings with 11 starts in 16 games. He also hit .296 and he has limited his hitting this season. More impressive, though, was Bolmer’s 75 strikeouts and 36 walks.

He has worked to lower his walk total.

“Except for the first two games or so, I have limited my walks for the most part,” said Bolmer. “I do believe I have limited my walks by a good amount.”

Bolmer also has dabbled with his pitches, and they have proven to be effective.”

“This year I brought back my slider and changeup,” said Bolmer. “I’m up to four pitches now including my two-seam fastball and curveball with the slider and changeup.

“I’m throwing pretty well. I hope I can continue my ways for the second half of the season.”

Catty skipper Steve Bradley believes Bolmer can keep his stride.

Alex has been the backbone of our defense with his pitching- and he had 2 hits last game,” stressed Bradley. “His attitude is outstanding. When he’s on the mound, he keeps us in games and his leadership has been fantastic. He is willing to do whatever is necessary to help the team.”

Bolmer anticipates his team can continue their winning ways. He made his next start against Northern Lehigh Tuesday.

“I believe the season is going very well,” said Bolmer. “We are at .500, and this team can be very well above that.”