Senior Owen Gabbey has been a key player for Men’s Baseball this year, playing first base, third base, and catcher. Additionally, he made his first pitching appearance two weeks ago, when his four scoreless innings helped the ‘Jackets come back to defeat St. Lawrence.
How did you get interested in baseball?
I think I remember sitting down and watching a Yankees game on TV with my dad at 2, so basically my whole life I’ve been around the game.
What do you enjoy most about baseball at UR?
I think the team atmosphere is the best I’ve ever been around. No matter what we’re doing, we do it as a team, which has been awesome.
How have you grown as an athlete over the course of your collegiate career?
I’ve gotten way more disciplined over my time here. I think I’ve learned the game way more and have become a more well-rounded player as a result.
What has been the highlight of your baseball career at UR?
Going on a 17-game win streak my freshman year was really cool because it felt like everyone was clicking at the same time, a hard thing in a team sport.
How do you balance academics and athletics?
I think learning how to stay organized is key. Knowing which hours you have to dedicate to which activities and staying to that strict schedule. That and energy drinks.
Who has had the greatest impact on your playing career and why?
I’d say my dad for sure. I probably couldn’t find anybody else who’d go hit me an hour’s worth of ground balls in the middle of the street whenever I wanted to.
What was it like to pitch in a game for the first time and do well?
It was fun pitching in a real game and, even more than that, pitching in a spot where I was able to help our team come back. I’ve pitched a lot elsewhere in my career, so I knew what I needed to do, just fun to be able to go out and execute.
Who is your favorite professional athlete, and why?
I’m a big James Harden fan because I like his approach to the game and personality.
If you could be any movie character, who would you choose to be and why?
Nicolas Cage from “National Treasure.” He ends up with a fortune of buried treasure, and he’s still Nicolas Cage.
