2026 MSBL Player Profile: Rusty Nail, Central Ohio MABL
By Steve LaMontia-Carlentini, MSBL Director of Communications
Rusty Nail plays for and manages the Columbus Coyotes in the Central Ohio MABL, a position he has held for the past 14 years. League President and MSBL National Hall of Fame member Charles McCroskey had this to say about Rusty when asked about the impact individuals in the league.
“I proudly nominate Rusty Nail, now in his 17th year in the league and currently player/manager of the Columbus Coyotes for the last 14 years, for his long-standing leadership and service. Through steady leadership, consistent team involvement, and commitment to participation, he has played an essential role in sustaining his club and supporting league operations.
In addition to his on-field responsibilities, he also serves on the Central Ohio MABL Hall of Fame Committee, contributing to the preservation and growth of our baseball community. His dedication and longevity make him an outstanding candidate for national recognition.”
Rusty’s Coyotes are having a bit of a struggle so far this year, sitting at 2-9 after their July 12th victory over the Columbus Mustangs. Along with his playing and managing chores, he is always willing to give Charles a hand.
“Whenever Charles needs something, I’m only a phone call away,” explains Rusty. “I’ll help him to come and look at fields if it’s raining, or help with Hall of Fame banquets or anything he needs to run something past.
The commitment from Charles is what makes this league special. He sees a lot and hears a lot and has to put up with a lot. He keeps everybody informed and hands each situation accordingly. He is a straight shooter and doesn’t put up with too much craziness.”
Rusty in the youngest of six boys and was born and raised right there in Columbus. His baseball career began at the age of four with ‘coach pitch’, then graduated to Little League and High School competition.
“I was not skilled enough to continue on to college baseball and I didn’t know about our league back then.”
Rusty is primarily a catcher and spends some time as a designated hitter, and first and third baseman. He began his Central Ohio MABL career back in 2010 with the Columbus Red Devilz. He plays for the 18+ Coyotes and also for the 45-over Spiders in the Columbus MSBL.
“Back in 2010, a good friend from Little League recommended I play. It had been a few years, so I went to batting cages, and also started attending indoor workouts. There weren’t many facilities at the time, like there are now with D Bats and Bat Flip, but I found a way.
I wish I would have found the league sooner. It’s great to get out there with guys from all skill levels. It’s fun. You build fond memories and lasting friendships.”
Off the field, Rusty is married to Trish, with children aged 27, 24, and 16 and has been working for a science engineering company for the past 13 years.
“I have three brothers who still live in the area but none of them play ball anymore. Being the youngest of six boys, I had two older brother who were players, a dad who coached us, and a mom, Mildred, who was a scorekeeper and knew all of the rules.
Baseball has been a life lessen with our family. I learned how to show up, learn how to accept defeat, and also how to be humble in victory. I had a very fortunate baseball upbringing.”
Rusty has also participated in both the MSBL World Series in Arizona and the Fall Classic in Florida.
“I’ve been to Florida with Charles (McCroskey) a few times from 2015 through 2019. I’ve also been to Arizona with John Thomas and Mike Gross. The fields were beautiful in both locations. I am hopeful to get back to Arizona this year (MSBL World Series) in the 40s with some guys from Columbus.”
Do you have a favorite player?
“I look at things from a catcher’s standpoint so it was of course Johnny Bench, especially from around here. I have to also include Ken Griffey, Jr., and our entire family has always loved Jim Abbott. He never complained. He just went out and worked hard. He’s easy to admire.”
Do you have a greatest or most memorable baseball moment?
“I was playing in a youth league and my dad, Michael, was coaching for us in the 17-18 under league, and having him in the dugout as a manager and a dad was really wonderful. It was a special time. I feel like without him, I would not be who I am today. “
Is there anyone special you would like to thank for always being there and helping you along your baseball journey?
“That’s easy. I want to thank my wife Trish because without her support, encouragement and love, none of this would be possible. She is the one that keeps me motivated every year and goes through every heart-breaking loss and celebrates every win.
She is definitely the heart of this team, and the number one fan not just for me, but for every player that is on the team.”