@Nick_Oshea

Nick was drafted in the 24th round by the Cincinnati Reds out of the University of Minnesota.  During the 2012 season he hit .208 with 4HR and 28 RBI's. In High school Nick was named the defensive player of the year in 2007. During his time with the U of M Nick  was named to the First Team All Big Ten, First Team Academic All-District, lead the team with a .360 BA and 60 RBI's (a team high).

 Here is what Nick had to say.



Q: What influenced your decision to play baseball?
A: "Ever since I can remember, I loved  playing baseball. My dad has always been a big fan of the game and I followed suit right away."

Q: What is your favorite city to play in?
A: "Dayton for sure. We have an incredible fan base and stadium. As for teams I've played at as a visitor, I would say Fort Wayne. The stadium is beautiful and has a lot of character."

Q: What is your favorite thing to do on the road?
A: "I like to get out and see a little bit of each town. Baseball has taken me to many places I would not have been if it weren't for the sport, so I like to see what the towns have to offer. It's not always easy to do when you are stuck without a vehicle."

Q: What is your best baseball memory?
A: "Winning the Big Ten regular season and Big Ten Tournament championships during the 2010 season at the University of Minnesota."

Q: What was it like when you were drafted?
A: "It was an interesting day. You hear all these things from people who say they think you will go hear or there, but it doesn't really matter until your name is called. It was exciting, stressful, and a once in a lifetime opportunity I'm thankful for every day."

Q: What was the best clubhouse prank you pulled/saw/had pulled on you?
A: "When I was playing in a college summer league, some of my teammates stole the bat boy's clothes during a game, soaked them in water and froze them. Watching him try to put on his frozen shirt, pants, and shoes was hilarious."

Q: What is the funniest/strangest thing you have seen in the clubhouse?
A: "Earlier this season, a bird somehow found its way into the clubhouse. We had the whole team in there with towels trying to catch the thing as it flew back and forth across the length of the clubhouse. Eventually one of the guys caught it but before he could let it go outside, it escaped and flew down one of the hallways never to be seen again."

Q: What is your favorite sport other than baseball?
A: "To play? Golf. To watch? Football."

Q: Who was your childhood role model?
A: "My childhood role models were my parents. They supported me through everything growing up and raised me the right way. They are the most loving caring parents and I hope to pass that along to my own children someday."

Q: What did it feel like to get your first hit?
A: "It was a great feeling. My first professional hit was a home run so that made it even more special."

Q: What is the weirdest thing a fan has asked you to sign?
A: "The back of a cell phone case."

Q: What is the biggest personal change you have had since becoming a pro-athlete?
A: "I'd say learning to be more flexible. Things can change in an instant in pro baseball. You may be sent to three different places in one week. You may be asked to report for extra work at the end of a long season or asked to report early before spring training. These are things that are meant to help you in the long run and being flexible helps you adjust to anything."

Q: If you could play with/against and other athlete in any sport, what athlete would it be and in what sport?
A: "I would love to play a round of golf with Tiger Woods."