Photo courtesy of Jacob Dunkin
Eli is a senior at Plant City High School who plays for the Raiders varsity baseball team.
How long have you been playing baseball?
I have played baseball since I was three years old.
What’s your favorite career play?
My favorite career play was when I was younger, and we were playing up an age group. We hadn’t won a game yet but had the lead with the tying run in scoring position when a ground ball was hit to me at second. The first baseman went off the bag going after the ball, so I broke into a dead sprint to first and collided with the runner. I beat him to the bag, though, to win the game. It’s my favorite play because although I got cut on my face from the collision, I was more concerned with winning the game. It’s not my flashiest play, but it shows my competitiveness.
What’s your favorite baseball memory?
My favorite baseball memory is playing for Team Florida this past summer and getting to play at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha. We beat California, and I had a big hit in that game.
What made you decide to commit to USF?
Thank you, I grew up going to USF baseball camps, so I have always had a connection with USF baseball. I think the new coaching staff is fantastic and are taking the program in the right direction. The campus and facilities are really nice, and they take good care of the athletes. It’s also nice that it is close to home so family and friends can come watch. We’re bringing in a strong recruiting class and I’m looking forward to getting to work and competing with them.
How do you feel about the in season Saladino tournament?
This is my first year experiencing the in-season Saladino tournament. I think it’s a great way to maintain competitiveness midway through the season by adding another championship to play for.
What’s one area of your game that you want to improve?
I’m constantly wanting to improve in every aspect of the game, however, if I had to pick one it would be my speed just because I think it’s such a valuable tool. It can help with range in the field and beating balls out or stealing more bags offensively.
What do you think your biggest strength is at baseball?
I would say my overall athleticism because it allows me to play good defense, steal bases, and hit for both contact and power.
Which MLB player would you compare you say that you try and model after?
I would say I watch a combination of guys to model my game after. Defensively I like to watch Francisco Lindor and Bobby Witt Jr. Offensively I like to study guys like Bryce Harper, Juan Soto, and Jackson Holliday (all lefties like myself). One of the USF coaches has compared my swing to Jackson Holliday, but there is still room to improve.
When you’re not playing baseball, what are you doing in your free time?
In my free time, I like to work out, golf, and fish. I also go to church every week. I Like going out on the water and just hanging out with friends.
What are your favorite songs to get you hyped up for a game?
My go-to songs before a game are Trust in God by Elevation Worship and Lose Yourself by Eminem. Hometown Glory by Adele is also pretty good.
