Q & A with Trent Luyster – Ohio State Buckeyes
4/26/2004 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
Like “America’s Pastime,” junior pitcher Trent Luyster is dynamic; continually developing and giving fans something to cheer about. Luyster knew baseball was the game he would always prefer to play, despite incredible talent on the basketball court. Cool-headed and constantly leading by example, Luyster admires Randy Johnson, but is quick to say that he does not emulate his game after him. Rather, the southpaw knows his best pitching attributes are leading him to a successful career at Ohio State and hopefully are guiding him to professional success as well.
You scored more than 1,000 points in four years of playing basketball at Harrison Central High School. Why did you choose baseball over basketball?
“From an early age I knew I wanted to play baseball. Basketball was something I did in the off-season to keep in shape for the spring. Coming into the baseball season my legs were in pretty good shape and I was able to get my arms in shape quicker.”
As an upperclassman at Ohio State, do you feel it is your obligation to try to lead the team vocally and by example?
“Definitely. It was important for me to come into the season leading by example and verbally keeping the tempo upbeat, even during the times when we are down.”
What has been your most difficult baseball obstacle to overcome?
“My most difficult time was my freshman year at Ohio State. It was a different atmosphere and a different competition level. It was tough not knowing my role on the team. I just had to work at my pitching during the summer before my sophomore year and get better.”
Describe your emotion when you started your first game against Lafayette in 2002.
“I was a little bit nervous, but excited because that was what I worked for. It is pretty much every pitcher’s dream to start a game, especially at this level.”
Describe the atmosphere of the clubhouse before a game.
“I think everybody is pretty excited and upbeat. We eat our pre-game meal and then come back to Bill Davis Stadium and try to relax and have some fun in the clubhouse. We listen to music, hang out and get ready.”
Describe the atmosphere following a win.
“It’s pretty crazy. Everybody’s excited and everyone picks each other up. It’s good times in the clubhouse.”
What was the worst practical joke ever played in the clubhouse?
“I don’t remember who it was, but last year someone got his clothes thrown into the shower all practice. That was a pretty good one.”
What is your most embarrassing moment as a competitor in sports?
“In high school, when I was batting, I hit the ball and was running towards first base. There was a hole in the ground and I fell and all my teammates had a pretty good laugh. But I was able to laugh about it later because I ended up throwing a no-hitter in the game.”
Why is baseball “America’s Pastime”?
“It is a game America has grown with. Even though the times have changed, society, in general, can relate with baseball. It’s a good time if you’re playing it or just watching it.”
Who is your favorite left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball?
“Randy Johnson. Even though he is getting older, he’s been around the league for a long time and has shown his endurance. He’s always a good competitor.”
Do you try to emulate your pitching game after anyone in particular?
“Not really. I just pretty much work with my strengths and try to keep my mechanics the same every time I pitch.”
What Major League Baseball stadium do you dream of pitching in?
“I would like to pitch in Boston. The Red Sox are my favorite team. I think that field has a great atmosphere with all the history. Pitching there would be great.”
Why did you choose human development and family sciences as a major?
“I talked to my mom about choosing a major and she thought it would be good to choose human development as a major because I could go into teaching and coaching.”
What are your plans following college baseball at Ohio State?
“Hopefully I can play professional baseball. After my professional career is over I can begin coaching. I would like to be a pitching coach.”
How would you describe Ohio State if a stranger approached you and asked you why they should attend this university?
“I would describe it as pretty big and intimidating at first, but once you get a feel for the school and get your surroundings in gear and get a close group of friends, it’s just like home.”
For many young baseball fans that want to play at the collegiate level, what advice would you give them?
“The biggest thing is not to lose confidence in yourself. Baseball is the kind of game you play everyday so you’re going to have your ups and downs. You have to keep positive and keep wanting to get better everyday.”
