Michael O’Shaugnessy is a 2022 graduate of Christian Brothers Academy in Syracuse. He plays summer ball for the Body Armor Titans United 15U and recently announced his commitment to play at Davidson University. I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say.
Can you explain your experience with the college recruiting process and how you made your decision?
My experience with the college recruiting process was very fun, but also stressful at the same time. It was fun to talk to all the different coaches and have the experience like I did. But it was stressful towards the end when I had to tell the other coaches I was making the decision to go to Davidson. I chose Davidson because I felt that it was the best fit for me, and when I toured, it felt like I belonged there. The coaches were very easy to talk to and I really felt like I fit right in.
How did I stay sharp during quarantine?
What was huge for me was making sure I swung and did my routinely glove work every day so I didn’t lose anything that I worked on in the winter. I put in a lot of work this winter and I didn’t want to lose any of my progress, so I continued to work out 6 days a week and continued to swing everyday. My dad fortunately ordered weights and a rack so I was able to work out, so that kept me in shape and ready to roll for the season.
Do you feel it took a little while to get adjusted to game-speed after the long hiatus?
No I do not feel like it took a little while to adjust to game speed after the long hiatus because during the quarantine I would go to the field with my dad and my hitting instructor and we would bring a hitting machine, generator, and baseballs and pump it up to high 90’s and take hundreds of reps off of that. So adjusting to game-speed wasn’t as much as a challenge for me.
Who are some individuals that have impacted your career and why?
Definitely my parents. Both my mom and my dad have sacrificed so much for me to be where I’m at today. So much of there time has been put into me when they could’ve easily been hanging out with friends. Between the everyday weekend trips for tournaments, and bringing me to practice everyday. I couldn’t thank them enough. Another individual is my hitting instructor Danny Barbero. Without him I wouldn’t be the baseball player I am today. He put so many extra hours into me and I have been working with him for over 5 years.
Who are your favorite players in the MLB and why?
My favorite players in the MLB are Mike Trout, Javier Baez, and Francisco Lindor. Trout because his work ethic is insane and he is always professional out on the field. Baez because of how smooth he makes the hardest plays look, and how quick his glove is. And Lindor because of his energy on the field, and how he is always positive, and just appreciates the game.
Favorite musical artist?
My favorite musical artist vary. I like rap, and that is what I mostly listen to, but if I would have to chose one right now it would be Pop Smoke.
Pre-game Meal?
I am usually in the car before my games so I don’t get something special, but I always have my protein shake, a banana, and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on raisin bread.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
I love all the baseball trips I go on, but if I had to chose one it would be when I played for the Canes in 13u and we won the WWBA Nation championship.
