School: Wright City

Grade: Senior 

High School actives: Baseball, FFA

If you could go one place in the world, where would it be: Yellowstone

Favorite professional athlete: Bryce Harper 

Favorite school subject: gym 

Preferred pregame music: Rap or upbeat music

When did you start playing baseball?

“I was about five. I started playing rec ball here at Wright City.”

Have you always played first basemen?

“Yeah, I always played first base.” 

What goals do you have for your senior year?

“Just to have a good season, try to get all-state again and lead the team with what it’s like to be a good leader and be passionate about playing for Wright City.” 

How do you lead by example?

“I make sure everybody stays in line and we’re doing what we’re supposed to and not goofing off in practice.” 

What achievements are you most proud of?

“Being able to start some varsity games as a freshmen, getting all-state last year and being able to commit to a college.”

Where are you playing in college?

“I’m going to ECC (East Central College).”

Why did you choose to extend your career?

“Kind of my dad. He’s always pushing me to be better and he really wanted to see me play in college. I also wanted to get the college experience and see what it’s like.” 

What influence has your dad had on you throughout your career?

“He’s played a really big role. He always wants me to do good and be the best I can.” 

What’s allowed you to break out offensively recently?

“Preparing mentally every day, showing up at practice and putting in the work.” 

What’s your favorite pitch to receive?

“Inside fastball. It’s just my pitch to hit and I’m a leftie.” 

How has your approach at the plate evolved throughout the season?

“I started off the beginning of the season just going up there and if I see a pitch in the zone, just kind of hack at it and keep swinging and hope I can get into the groove. But lately, (coach) Bair has been really striving us to wait for our pitch and getting our pitch to hit.” 

How do you stay patient at the plate?

“I think to myself, I gotta sit back, see the ball deep and wait for my pitch. I make sure the pitcher has nothing on me.” 

What do you think has been the key part to the team’s recent success?

“In practices, we’ve been working on batting and approaches and what we’re doing at the plate.” 

What area of your game do you focus on the most?

“I would say hitting more than anything. I’ve always been pretty good defensive-wise, so I’d say hitting is the biggest thing because it’s so on and off.” 

You’ve hit two home runs recently. Describe that feeling. 

“It’s a great feeling. All the work and effort you put into that one moment and it finally happens is a pretty special feeling.” 

What are the differences between club and high school ball?

“In high school, the whole team is better friends and they have a better connection because everybody’s known each other for so long. The team does everything together too in highschool, whereas in club ball, it’s a little more independent.” 

What lessons have you learned through the sport?

“Not to let little things get to you and be strong minded.”