By Thomas Scavetta
Assistant Sports Editor
Photo: Kimberly Toledo
Thomas Asbaty is a sophomore Communications major from Randolph, N.J. Asbaty serves as catcher for the baseball team and is a huge part of the Pioneers defense, playing behind the plate.
Q: What first sparked your interest into playing baseball?
A: When I was a kid my family loved baseball, so I would go out in the front lawn by my cul-de-sac and hit balls with my dad and I just grabbed an interest for the game. I played a lot of different sports when I was younger. I played football in high school as well as baseball. I found baseball to be my best sport and I
just loved it.
Q: When did you first start playing baseball?
A: I started playing competitively for my town league when I was 8-years-old.
Q: What’s the strongest part of your game?
A: Being a catcher, I pride myself on defensive aspects of the game. I try to control the game and not allow any passed balls or stolen bases. I’m mentally prepared for games and I try to eliminate what the other team does best.
Q: What’s the pivotal key to winning this weekend’s series against Molloy College?
A: It’s very big to take three-out-of-four or sweep them. Coming off a three-out-of-four series win against Mercy College, we don’t want to show that we’re a one-and-done team. We want to make our conference know that LIU Post won’t be a team that’s just a roll over. Every series is huge to our team, especially conference play.
Q: How has the squad bonded together as a team during games and practices?
A: Being a second year player, this is definitely the most bonded team. Last year, we were kind of broken up because we had ten freshmen coming in. This year we clicked very well and all of the pitching staff, coaches, and players have molded as a team.
Q: If you could play any other position besides catcher, what would it be and why?
A: Shortstop would be another position I’d like to play. Playing as a catcher, you’re viewed as the backbone of the team or as a captain because you instruct your teammates on the field. When you’re playing shortstop, you can take charge and you’re teammates hear what you’re saying.
Q: Why did you choose to play catcher?
A: I was a nine-year-old all-star and one of our catchers went down with injury, so I volunteered, threw the gear on and I liked it ever since. Catching makes baseball a more interesting game.
Q: How often do you work with your pitchers during practice?
A: I’m with pitchers every step of the way and I’m always in their ear. I work with all our pitchers and our pitching coach and we are always on the same page. The only time I’m not with the pitchers is when I’m hitting in the batting cage. Other than that, we’re working together every single practice. I’m always helping them change their looks and mechanics.
Q: What is your favorite part about playing baseball?
A: I obviously love winning, but I love the whole atmosphere and being with the team whether it’s out on the field or in the dugout. There’s nothing better than being out on the dirt and the cut-grass.
Q: Do you have a favorite baseball team or athlete?
A: I love Derek Jeter and my dad loves Thurmond Munson. Munson is the reason why I wear number 15. He played as a catcher and prided himself on playing the game right with character. I play hard and go out there trying to win every game. The Yankees are my favorite baseball team and I’ve been watching them for a long time. When I was 6-years-old, my dad would make me recite the Yankees lineup.
Q: Any plans after graduating from Post?
A: I’m a communications major, so I want to do something with baseball and maybe announce or commentate. I’d like to play independent baseball and my dream is to get drafted and make my way up. As long as I’m playing baseball, I’m fine.
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