Q & A with Cody Caughenbaugh – Ohio State Buckeyes
4/5/2004 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
Get to know Ohio State sophomore outfielder Cody Caughenbaugh, a native of Newark, Ohio, who is majoring in mechanical engineering. He is coming off a solid freshman campaign when he started 44 of the 47 games in which he played, batted .288 and tallied 20 RBI. In last season’s spectacular run to the NCAA super regionals, Caughenbaugh blasted a home run against the Auburn Tigers in the regionals to propel Ohio State to a 9-7 victory.
When did you begin to take an interest in playing baseball?
“I began playing baseball when I was 7 years old. I got involved with Little League, played through high school and now, I am playing in college. I also play baseball in the summer with a club team called the Juniors, in the Central Ohio League.”
Who or what got you into playing baseball?
“I basically got myself into playing baseball. When I was growing up I played every sport there was to play: football, baseball, basketball, etc., but then I realized baseball was the best fit for me as an athlete.”
What are some of the opportunities associated with playing college baseball?
“It’s great to have priority class scheduling and be guaranteed I will get into a class. The trips we take as a team are great, too. I love the places we get to see during the season. It’s great to travel to places in the winter like Florida, Myrtle Beach, Houston and get away from the cold Ohio weather.”
What was it like to play in the NCAA super regional last season?
“It was awesome! It was the biggest game of the season and our emotions were flying high. I am disappointed we lost but I know we will be back. It was a great overall experience.”
What is the difference between high school baseball and college baseball?
“They style of play is the biggest difference. Players are faster, more technical and more intelligent in the college ranks. In college we also are bigger and stronger than in high school.” What are your goals as a student-athlete at Ohio State?
My biggest goals are to become an Academic All-American and make the Academic All-Big Ten team.
What goals do you have for this season?
“We plan on winning the Big Ten this season and make it back to the regionals. I know we can accomplish it because we are a very talented team. We gained experience in the NCAA tournament last season so we know what it is like to be there.”
How have you matured as a player over the past three years?
“I have gained more knowledge and more respect for the game during the past three years. Things like becoming more familiar with the pitch count and learning new hitting techniques have made me a more mature and complete player.”
Who has been the biggest influence on your life?
“My parents, no question. They have always been there for me no matter what the circumstance. When I was younger they would constantly be throwing me the baseball, helping me work on my batting and fielding. They also would work with me into the late hours of the night to help better my skills. If it weren’t for them I probably would not be where I am at today.”
What are some of your interests outside of baseball?
“I love to play and watch every kind of sport outside of baseball. I love football and love to attend Ohio State football games.”
How did it feel to hit a homerun, your first as a college player, in the regional game against Auburn last season?
“It was a great feeling. Knowing that I contributed to the team winning the game was one of the best feelings ever. That game overall was very emotional and the home run added to the excitement.”
What will be team’s strengths this season?
“We definitely have strength in our offense. We will also have good pitching, as well. If we work together we are going to be a very competitive team.”
