In his first season in the Quebec Junior Elite Baseball League, Victor Bernier showed steady progress and managed to establish himself on the Coaticook Rocket roster.
Used primarily as an outfielder, he also had a few starts at third base, he did well in the batting box. He maintained a batting average of .345. He hit a total of 39 hits, including 11 doubles. He also hit a long ball and drove in 25 runs, while walking 9 bases.
After playing with the Estacades de Trois-Rivières in the Quebec Midget AAA Baseball League, he said he went through a period of adaptation upon his arrival in the junior ranks. In particular, he had to familiarize himself with the quality of the opposing pitchers.
The confidence of the coaching staff in him and the coaching of veterans, among others, allowed him to improve and adapt in order to help the team. “Veterans like Jason Bégin and Gabriel Deblois, in particular, helped me a lot,” he said.
Collectively, the Rocket, after a good start to the season, had its ups and downs, so much so that it ended the regular season with a record of 18 wins and 23 losses. Victor Bernier nevertheless believes that the team can cause surprises in the playoffs.
Nathan Landry, an inspiration
Passionate about baseball, Victor Bernier, a former color holder of the Laurier de Victoriaville, confided that Nathan Landry is a source of inspiration for him. His compatriot was recently claimed by the Boston Red Sox in the major league draft before signing a first professional contract.
Like Landry did, Bernier would like to taste the adventure of baseball in the United States. “When you play in the United States, you enjoy greater visibility. Nathan’s journey has shown that anything is possible. He didn’t play for the CBA, but he managed to make his way to professional baseball nonetheless. His journey is very inspiring,” said Victor Bernier in conclusion.
