1 Thru 9: Rhett Anderson

By JOE McFARLAND

He made an immediate impact with Baseball Sask at the 2025 Canada Summer Games and hopes it’s a sign of things to come.

Rhett Anderson started the tournament off going 2-for-3 with a pair of singles and a walk in Saskatchewan’s 8-1 thumping of Alberta and was a consistent presence near the middle of the batting order as the province eventually claimed bronze.

It was the highlight of an outstanding year for the Sask Five Marlins 18U ‘AAA’ alum, who believes his hard work is going to take him places in the game.

The Hanley native regularly traveled up Highway 11 to Saskatoon to hone his skills at Berries Academy, which has paid off as he’s committed to Southeast Community College in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Anderson, a 6-foot-4, 225-pound first baseman, is being lauded for his big bat and strong defensive presence.

We caught up with him for a chat over Instagram, which led to our latest 1 Thru 9 to help us get to know him a little better.

1. How excited are you to get things going at Southeast?

I’m very excited to begin the next chapter of my baseball journey and super grateful for the opportunity that Southeast has given me. I’m proud to be a Bobcat and ready to get to work.

2. What made you wanna go to that school?

Southeast offers an outstanding environment for development and has a strong work ethic. In my conversations with the coaching staff, I could feel their passion and desire to win and I knew it would be a good fit for me. Their belief in my potential, the competitive culture and opportunity to grow both on and off the field made the decision an easy one.

3. You had a fantastic 2025. What was working for you?

2025 was a fun year! I owe much of my success to the coaching and guidance that I received. I’m truly grateful to have so many people in my corner every step of the way. When I face challenges, I have strong mentors, teammates, and family that I can turn to who help me reset, refocus, and bounce back stronger.

4. Any favourite memories or moments from last season?

Winning a bronze medal at the Canadian Summer Games in St. John’s, Newfoundland last summer will always be one of my favourite baseball memories. We had an amazing group of teammates and coaches, made unforgettable memories that week, and earned that medal together.  Every player contributed to our success and the bond we formed through that experience will be something I’ll never forget. 

5. Give us your baseball origin story. How did you get into the game in the first place?

Baseball started for me in my hometown of Hanley where my mom was my t-ball coach.  Our town was big into softball so after t-ball we had to go to the city for baseball. I really enjoyed playing for the Saskatoon Cardinals in junior rally cap, through to the end of 13U. In 15U I was zoned to the Sask Five Association, where I’ll finish my minor baseball career. Playing for so many different teams and zones has given me a very large network of support, and each step has shaped me as a player and as a teammate. 

6. What has Berries Academy meant to you in your development as a ball player and as a human being?

The Berries Academy has instilled a strong work ethic and prepared me for what’s ahead. The coaches know what really matters, bring real experience, and genuinely want their players to succeed. They push and hold you accountable to prepare you for the demands of college baseball. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their guidance and support. 

7. What’s been the biggest challenge or hurdle you’ve had to overcome that you’re super-proud of yourself for getting through?

Growing up on a mixed farm south of Saskatoon has shaped who I am in every way. Baseball season lands right in the middle of prime farming time, which means the two parts of my life that matter most are often pulling at me at the same time. There have been plenty of long days where I’ve traveled for a doubleheader and then driven home to climb into the tractor to work through the night so that I can be back on the diamonds again the next day. It’s not always easy balancing my commitment to my team(s) with my responsibility to my dad and our livelihood, but that balance has taught me discipline, grit, and what it truly means to show up no matter what. Farming and baseball have both demanded a lot from me and in return, they’ve given me perspective, resilience, and a deep appreciation for hard work.

8. If you had one piece of advice or some words of wisdom for those young kids just starting out on their baseball journeys, what would you tell them?

Be coachable. Listen more than you talk. Respect the game, your teammates, and everyone who helps you along the way. There’s so much to be learned from those who are paving the way ahead of us. If you stay open, humble, and willing to learn, the game will shape you far beyond the field.

9. What does the game of baseball mean to you?

Baseball means everything to me. It isn’t just a game, it’s been a teacher, a routine, and a place where I’ve grown as a person. It’s where I’ve learned how to handle failure, celebrate success and how to keep showing up everyday with purpose. I’m grateful for every opportunity it has given me.

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