Oswego State’s extended family grew a bit larger on March 17, when baseball head coach Scott Landers’ wife gave birth to a baby girl.

Landers was in the midst of the Lakers’ annual road trip to Florida to participate in the Russmatt Central Florida Invitational when he got a phone call from his wife that prompted him to take the next flight out of Florida.

“It was just like any other day as a coach,” Landers said. “She told me she was going into labor, and that she was five centimeters dilated.”

While in Florida, Landers had prepared his coaching staff and the players for a possible leave of absence during the trip, in light of his first child’s early birth. Landers made sure the program was well aware, making necessary preparations if he had to leave during the spring break trip.

Landers’ preparation included leaving assistant coach Tyler Baker in charge of the Alleghany College doubleheader on March 18, while Landers assisted with his wife’s needs back home.

“I let the guys know ahead of time, and there were no secrets about me leaving during the trip,” Landers said. “I trusted Tyler with everything and I think the guys really stepped up and put my mind at ease, knowing they would be okay.”

Landers returned the day after the Lakers split the series against Alleghany College, turning his attention to a series coming up against a SUNYAC-foe, the College at Brockport. The Lakers completed a three-game sweep, earning a 7-3 record on the spring break  trip.

“This program has always preached family, academics and athletics,” Landers said. “My wife supports my job, which comes with long hours and busy weekends, and I truly thank her for that.”