ZS: As a multi-sport athlete who played all three seasons, you were able to author a significant impact in basketball, baseball, and golf throughout your high school career. Which aspects factored into your decision to play baseball at the next level?
AS: With baseball, I had more offers and more opportunity
out of it. I figured I was best suited to play baseball at the next level and
saw more promise in the game with my skill-set and what I can offer through the
test of time. It ultimately seemed like the right route for me.
ZS: How would you describe the experience of forging a team
of guys from tremendously different backgrounds and different countries into a
team with camaraderie and a team that’s collectively bought in thus far?
AS: This summer, I had the opportunity to go to Ecuador. In
visiting a third world country, I really got to experience something new and
also realize how great I have it here in the United States. I was able to
establish important bonds with people from different countries and that’s
transferred to what we’ve done here which is work collectively and sacrifice
individual wants for what’s best for the team.
ZS: As the old saying goes, ‘there’s nothing like the
original. You guys are the first-ever prep program here at Scotland Campus
Sports. If you could pick and choose it, how would you want this team to be
memorable and special and what would you want to ultimately cement this team’s
legacy?
AS: First and foremost above all would to be have a winning
season. I would also want all of us to get what we want at the next level.
Whether that’s an offer or the chance to get what we want as we continue our
careers academically and athletically.
ZS: How would you sum up some of the key principles coach
(Todd) Weldon preaches and ingrains in you guys?
AS: He preaches a hard work ethic and makes sure we’re
constantly ahead of the curve with what we need to work on. That means getting
into the weight room with (strength and conditioning coach) coach Travis
(Scott) and getting the work in early.
ZS: How would you describe the experience playing travel
ball this summer and what did you take from that level of play?
AS: It was a great experience playing against guys that were either current or former college players. A lot of guys can still pump up there. It was different. There were guys who could spot their off speed and fastball, which makes them really effective. So it was different. It prepared me a lot.
ZS: Which components of your game have grown the past season and what do you feel are your bedrock attributes as a multi-tooled guy who can catch, pitch, and display some pop?
AS: I've got a pretty good arm. Hand and eye coordination helps me a lot with that and my playmaking. I take pride in my work in the weight room and that, along with hand-eye coordination, forms a lot of pop.