Buffalo baseball has started off the season with a respectable 3-4 record. But the real story lies behind Freshman shortstop Ramón Vega. Vega has proven to be quite an addition to the team this year, batting over .500 in conference play, and hitting his first out-of-the-park homerun in last week’s game.
However, it wouldn’t be right to say that we are surprised with his outstanding start to the 2014 season. Vega’s family roots run deep in the sport, as his father once played for the San Francisco Giants.
“I started playing baseball as soon as I could join,” said Vega. “But its not like I had much of a choice,” he said chuckling.
Vega has found his place on the team to be at shortstop. This infielder is often referred to as the most dynamic player on the field, and he is convinced that it takes just as much, if not more, mental determination as physical ability to play the position.
“You have to have a good mind to play that spot,” said Vega. “You have to know what’s going on in every play.”
Vega’s dad has coached him throughout all his life and continues to do so to this day. He feel’s some added pressure as he’s faced with high expectations. Vega also plays a vital role on the swim team in the winter, lettering in both the Freestyle and Butterfly strokes as a Freshman. However, playing baseball still proves to be his favorite sport.
“Baseball is my favorite without a doubt,” said Vega without hesitation. “I’m in swimming to stay conditioned for baseball.”
