Continuing our "Get to Know" series, UAPB Baseball next introduces junior pitcher Leo Fuentes. A native of Reno (NV) and food connoisseur, Feuentes joins the UAPB Golden Lions from Cabrillo College in Aptos, California.
What made you decide to attend UAPB?
I decided to attend UAPB for a couple reasons. I was really excited about the level of competition we get to face on a daily basis. On top of that, the opportunity to see new places and experience a different way of life was too appealing to pass up.
What has been your best experience thus far at UAPB?
It's hard to narrow it down to one experience this early in the year. We have a great group of guys, so any time we're all at the yard or in the weight room we feed off of each other, and it's just a great atmosphere, full of good times.
What are some significant differences you have noticed in the South and the West Coast?
How much time do you have? The South and the West Coast are two different worlds. It's not as fast paced here as it is back home, so I've had to adjust to that, but I think the food is the biggest difference. I love trying new food, and there has been plenty of that out here. There's been some really good food, some really unique food, and some food that...well, makes me miss the West Coast. But the people down here are amazing. They make you feel welcome from the minute you get into town. It's been fun so far!
How far was your drive to UAPB and did anything eventful happen along the way?
My drive from Reno was about 2,000 miles and took me a little under 30 hours on the road. It was a pretty wild trip! I drove to Odessa, Texas with two friends. From there I drove across Texas to Pine Bluff, and I got a traffic ticket in Abilene, Texas! As I was getting back on the highway, a road sign informed me that you "DON'T MESS WITH TEXAS". I learned that one the hard way.
Who is your favorite MLB pitcher and why?
There are too many for me to say just one. As for pitchers in the game currently, I'd have to say Tim Lincecum. How could anyone say they don't like watching this guy pitch? Some others that are my personal favorites are Pedro Martinez, Nolan Ryan, Juan Marichal, Luis Tiant, and Satchel Paige.
Describe and rate you fungo skills in comparison to the other pitchers.
My fungo skills are the best on the team, hands down! It's not the other pitchers who need to be worried about me, that's already a done deal. The coaches are my competition.
What is your major?
My major is Social and Behavioral Sciences.
If you were to compare your life to an actor or celebrity who would it be and why?
Kenny Powers. He's my role model for baseball and most aspects of life. I just hope that one day my hair will be as luxurious as his.
What kind of music is on your Ipod?
A lot of everything (aside from country; sorry to all the country fans). Lately, I've been listening to a lot of Roky Erickson, some old reggae like Symarip, and some hip-hop stuff like Zion-I, J. Cole, Wale, that kind of stuff.
Favorite TV show?
Eastbound and Down, The Office, and just about anything on the Food Network.
What are your goals/aspirations for the next 2 years at UAPB?
Time for the famous Crash Davis cliche: "We gotta play 'em one day at a time. I'm just happy to be here, hope I can help the ball club. I just want to give it my best shot, and the good lord willing, things will work out."
