Q & A with Kelly Houser – Ohio State Buckeyes
4/19/2004 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
Sixteen years ago, sophomore catcher Kelly Houser received his first baseball glove. The first person in his family to play on the diamond, Houser rotated from shortstop to pitcher before finding his niche at backstop. Now a backup catcher for the Buckeyes, the Adena High School graduate caught the first perfect game in the history of the Ohio State baseball program last season. This season, the New Holland, Ohio native is in pursuit of one coveted item – a championship ring.
As a catcher, you are the “field general.” You are responsible for calling pitches, reacting to all situations and being an on-field psychologist. Could you talk about the personality attributes you possess that allow you to fulfill such a role?
“I’m sort of laid back, so that helps in not being uptight and nervous when situations arise.”
What’s the greatest aspect of playing your position?
“You handle every pitch. If something is not going right, you always have the authority to get something else going and get on your teammates about what needs to change.”
What’s the toughest aspect?
“Handling the pitcher. When they are not doing so well on the mound, you have to know how to go out and talk to them and know what pitches are working for them.”
Could you talk about the nature of the catcher-pitcher relationship?
“As a catcher, you have to be on the same page as the pitcher. You also have to have confidence in one another.”
Last season, you experienced a great novice year with the Buckeyes as they fell just two games short of advancing to the College World Series. How are you building upon last year’s experience?
“Now we know what it’s like to play in a super regional and how much we wanted to get to Omaha. I think that experience will inspire us this season.”
As a sophomore, you caught the first perfect game in school history in the second game of a doubleheader against Oakland. Could you recap that awesome occurrence?
“It was an incredible experience for everyone. That sort of thing rarely happens so it was an honor being part of it. I don’t think we did anything to celebrate that night because we were so tired. It was really exciting. I think everyone was a little tense. No one really talked about it in the dugout. Once it happened, the place went crazy.”
What was it like getting your first career hit last March against Eastern Michigan?
“I was just excited to get to play for the first time. Getting a hit was a plus.”
What are your goals and aspirations for this season?
“My goals for this season are to win Big Ten and go beyond that. I have never gotten a championship ring, so I’m looking forward to one this year.”
When you get that championship ring, what will you do with it?
“I’ll probably put it away for safe keeping. I never really wore rings, but it would be nice to see it everyday.”
Who were your favorite players growing up?
“My favorite player growing up was Chris Sabo. I am a Reds fan and have been one since I was young.”
What about him did you find most inspirational?
“My grandpa is a big Reds fan. Chris always wore the “rec-specs” eye goggles. I think that’s my favorite thing about him.”
Have you ever considered purchasing a pair yourself?
“Well, I’d think about it if I needed glasses. They look pretty cool.”
Could you talk about your history as a baseball player? When did you receive your first glove?
“I’ve been playing baseball since I was about 5 years old. I started playing tee-ball and received my first glove then.”
Have you always played the position of catcher?
“In high school, I pitched a lot. When I was younger, I played shortstop. I didn’t start catching until high school.”
Are you superstitious at all?
“Not really. But every once in awhile, if I get a couple of base hits, I always hold the bat the same way with the label facing the same direction.
Is your family able to come from New Holland, Ohio to see you play? Do you feel differently when you know they are in the stands cheering for you?
“New Holland is only about 45 minutes away. My family came to all of the home games last season and even made it to a couple of games down south. It’s always nice when you know there is somebody in the stands cheering for you.
What are your favorite movies? Is Bull Durham on the list?
“My favorite movies are ‘Days of Thunder,’ and ‘Super Troopers.’ As far as baseball movies, ‘For Love of the Game’ and ‘Bull Durham’ top the list.”
Do you have any nicknames?
“Doogie, after Doogie Howser, M.D. from the TV show. It was kind of weird because nobody ever called me that in high school and it seems like such an obvious nickname.”
Do you have any similarities with Doogie Houser, M.D.?
“To be honest, I don’t think I have ever seen the show!”
Who are your role models?
“My parents. I model my life by my parents.”
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
“Hopefully, I have graduated from college by then. I hope to have a successful occupation and living somewhere warm.”
