Sophomore first baseman Nick Carlson hit two home runs and recorded four RBIs in four trips to the plate this past weekend against Liberty League rival Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to help secure a 10-5 victory on day one. A native of Canandaigua, N.Y., Carlson began his baseball career in second grade. By high school, he was a two-time All-League selection, named a top 30 player in N.Y. by Collegiate Baseball Magazine and led his squad to a league title as captain during his senior year. This talent showed through during the Yellowjackets’ first game against RPI on Saturday, April 7. Carlson, together with senior infielder Robby Barnard, made big strides to earn the UR baseball team a win.
What is your major?
Business Marketing.
What is your favorite part about playing baseball?
My favorite part about the game is that you can’t hide in baseball. When the ball is hit to you, you have to make the play. When you’re at the plate, it’s you versus the pitcher. It seems like such a simple game, but all the little things that help make a team successful is what makes it so much fun.
Courtesy of UR Athletics
Do you have any before or after game rituals?
Not really. However, I will rotate my batting gloves depending on which pair I am hitting better with.
If you were to go pro, what team would you want to play for?
The Minnesota Twins. I have a lot of family in Minnesota, and my dad was the trainer for them back in the early ’90s, so I kind of grew up around the game.
If you were to play a sport other than baseball, what would it be?
If I were to play any other sport, it would be golf. I have played it my whole life and will continue to play when I get older. It’s a lifelong sport, and I really enjoy getting out on the course any time I can.
How do you think your team will finish off the season?
I think we will make a run for a spot in the Liberty League Tournament. We have had a lot of tough one or two run losses, but things have been clicking more lately. Hopefully, we can string together some wins and get on a roll soon.
What do you see yourself doing after graduation?
Either going to grad school to obtain my M.B.A. or working with a sports team in their marketing division.
Holden is a member of the class of 2013.
