This week I sat down with Joe Purritano '16 to talk about season highlights and what he thought about "42".
What was your reaction to earning Ivy League Rookie of the Week and Ivy League Player of the Week?
JP: It was good, it was definitely humbling and it's an honor. I can't say I was expecting it. It's not really something I look for, but it's even better when we get four wins for that weekend.
How did you feel when you then found out you were one of five players to be named the National Louisville Slugger of the Week?
JP: There are a lot of good players across the country doing a lot of good things, so to be recognized for a good weekend, it was definitely an honor. I never realized they would give it to a freshman.
What do you think helped make a difference for you last weekend?
JP: I made some adjustments at the plate during the middle of the week, just watching film and doing my thing. I also shortened up my stance a little bit and felt a little more balanced. In baseball terms, I just let my hands fly and hit the ball hard, which is what I pride myself on.
With the Ivy League season coming close to a finish, what's the status on the Ivy League Championship? Are you guys likely to be in it?
JP: It's something we've been working for really hard all season. We're hoping to get there, and I think we've put ourselves in a good chance to do so. We just have to play well against Yale this weekend and then in four games against Harvard next weekend.
If you were to win the championship, would you have to stay on campus longer after school is out?
JP: The Ivy League championship would be the first weekend in May. If we win that, the regional for the NCAA tournament doesn't start until the first weekend in June. Unless we keep winning, we won't have to stay longer, but we'll definitely have to leave school, which would be tough with finals.
How were you chosen to be the designated hitter this year?
JP: Dustin [Selzer] '14 has been the pretty mainstay guy at first and I traditionally play first base. Dustin was there last year and it's his spot, and so any way I can get my bat in the lineup, Coach just wanted to sneak me in there. There are some different scenarios he could do with the lineup at the end of the day, but I guess he felt most comfortable with me at DH.
What has been your favorite moment of the season so far?
JP: That's a tough one. I'd have to say coming out on opening night and beating Minnesota. We beat a really good pitcher who will be going in the first round this year's MLB draft.
What does the team do over the summer?
JP: Most of us are playing summer ball. We get sent to what's called Collegiate Leagues you sign a contract with the team and the coaches pretty much place us where they want us to go. I'm going to Albany, N.Y. and staying at my grandparents' house, which will be fun. That one is called the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League, just a summer league with a bunch of college kids. It's fun, a little more laid back. It's really just to keep you playing.
If you could play any other sport besides baseball, what would it be?
JP: Football. I've always been a big football fan but I had to give it up when I was younger for baseball. I love watching games and would love to play a little bit if I could.
Have you seen "42" yet?
JP: I saw it this week. I think it's an unbelievable story. It's tough since there's not really a plot, it just tells the story of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier of baseball. I think he's a hero and it was awesome to watch just to see how it all transpired. It's sad, to be honest, but it was a good film.
