Durant High’s baseball team has been on a tear lately, winning six of its last seven games (as of press time). Among those wins was a big 13-2 statement win at Strawberry Crest Friday, Feb. 27, and sophomore Jonah Scolaro led the way by going 3-for-4 with three runs scored, two RBI and two stolen bases.
You all got a big win over Crest on Friday night, and you played well in that one. How are things going for you out there?
Good, we’re on a roll right now. It’s all about the team — I can’t just talk about me that much.
You’re stepping into a pretty big role on this team as a sophomore. What’s that like for you?
It’s good. I’ve been playing my whole life, and it’s just a game. You can’t really think about that stuff too much. Can’t let it get to your head.
Do you have any personal goals for this season?
I’ve got to lower my ERA. That’s what I’m working on right now.
What was the first position you ever played in baseball that you really liked?
First base, but I don’t play that anymore. I got bad at it.
How did you do that?
I don’t know. I couldn’t really catch the ball at first base, so I moved to the outfield. Which, that doesn’t really make sense, but, yeah.
You’re also a pitcher. What made you try that out?
I always pitched a little bit, but I was never that good at it. Then, when I was 13, that’s when I really started to develop. I got better. I like pitching best now.
What’s your best pitch?
My two-seam fastball.
If you could play another sport you’ve never tried before, what would it be?
I wouldn’t play any other sport — I’d just stick with baseball. It’s just, no other sports really interests me. This is the best sport.
Who’s your MLB team?
I don’t have a favorite team. I just follow the sport more, stay up with who’s doing good and stuff.
Favorite player?
Dustin Pedroia. Just the way he plays — he’s a beast.
I know you don’t have a favorite pro team but, if you could get called up to any team in the bigs right now, where would you go?
Oh, the Yankees. They’ve got a lot of money, and everything else. The legacy — it’s the Yankees. Everyone knows the Yankees.
What’s the best baseball movie of all time?
“The Sandlot.”
I see you guys have Mario Baseball here in the clubhouse. What other video games are you big on?
“Super Smash Bros. Brawl.”
Who’s always getting whooped at Mario Baseball in here?
Sully. Definitely Jake Sullivan, he’s awful. (Ed. note: a nearly-full clubhouse immediately backed up this claim.)
If you could be either rich or famous, what would it be?
Rich, because I could get whatever I want. And, you can get famous for being rich.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
To be able to fly, because that would be awesome.
What’s the most-played song in your iPod right now?
“Thinking Out Loud,” by Ed Sheeran.
Do you have a message for all the Cougar fans who are going to read this?
D.F.D., baby!