RUSs Canzler Bio

Russ Canzler is a former professional baseball player who had a successful 12 year playing career. A product of Hazleton Area High School, Canzler was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 2004 MLB draft. During his career in Major League Baseball, Canzler played for multiple professional teams, including the Tampa Bay Rays, Cleveland Indians, Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees, and Philadelphia Phillies. His MLB debut was in 2011 with the Tampa Bay Rays. Canzler was known for his hitting ability and versatility, being able to play various positions on the field. He has been selected to multiple Pro All-star teams, and was the 2011 International League MVP (Durham Bulls). Throughout his playing career, Coach Canzler has trained countless players at camps, clinics, and private lessons. Currently, he is the head baseball coach at Hazleton Area High School and owner of RCS Warpath.

russ canzler playing accomplishments

Playing Accomplishments

  • Drafted in the 2004 MLB Amateur Draft by the Chicago Cubs
  • 1,200 Professional games played over 12 seasons with 7 Major League Teams
  • Hazleton Area Hall of Fame Inductee
  • Three-time Pro All-star
  • Minor League Player of the Week
  • Baseball America Triple-A All Star
  • 2006 MILB “Round Tripper” Award Winner
  • 2011 Durham Bulls “Community Man of the Year” award winner
  • Recipient 2011 Triple-A All Star Game
  • MVP 2011 International League MVP
  • First Alumni of Hazleton Area High School to play Major League Basebal

 

Coaching Experience

 

“As owner of Russ Canzler Sports LLC, I have used my knowledge and love for the game to help the next generation of athletes achieve their dreams. During my playing career, I’ve had the privilege of not only seeing what it takes to be the best, but applying and experiencing it in myself. I am dedicated to developing players and teams the Major League Way. I do this by training the specific skills, mechanics, and competitive mindset needed to play the game at a high level. Over the last 15 years, I have coached countless Little League, high school, college, and professional players in my camps and clinics. I have also consulted for several organizations in their pursuit to create a winning environment.

“I will never expect perfection from an athlete, but I will demand effort. I believe in creating a family atmosphere with my players and teams. I will be the coach who is honest and holds every individual accountable for their attitude and every aspect of the game. As a 30th round draft pick that eventually was able to have a successful career in the big leagues, I believe every player with the right work ethic and the right approach will be able to reach beyond their own expectations.”

“I love this game, and I love coaching this game. I was blessed to play at the highest level, and now I enjoy passing down what I’ve learned to the next generation of players.”

 

I also believe having strong foundations in life is the key to happiness, success, and inner peace. As Luke 6:48 says, “He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid foundations on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built.” My faith in God and his Son Jesus Christ has not only helped me succeed as a ballplayer and Coach, but more importantly as a father and husband.

I consider meeting and marrying my wife Kimberly as one of my life’s greatest accomplishments. She has been my best friend and strongest supporter through good times and bad. She has also blessed me with six beautiful children. During my playing career, Kim and I have been fortunate enough to travel and live all over the United States. When it came time to start a family, we couldn’t think of a better place to raise our children other than Northeastern PA. The values I learned growing up here—hard work, honesty, and responsibility, are lessons I eagerly pass down to my children today. Our family resides in my hometown of Conyngham. At home with us are the kids-Kaedyn, Henry, Grace, Gordon, Brooks, Beau as well our two dogs, and four cats.