Feb. 22, 2012

Nine Innings with Casey Kalenkosky

By Phil Stanton

CollegeBaseballInsider.com Co-Founder

Phil@collegebaseballinsider.com @RoadToOmaha

Casey Kalenkosky is a senior at Texas State, playing first base and catching. A native of San Antonio, Texas, Kalenkosky had a huge season for the Bobcats in 2011. He set a school record with 21 home runs, the sixth-highest total in Division I. Kalenkosky hit .327 with 17 doubles, 59 runs and 69 RBI. He was First Team All-Southland Conference, First Team All South Central Region and Third Team All-America. He was chosen in the 13th round of the 2011 MLB Draft by the Washington Nationals.

Kalenkosky played for two seasons at Cisco Junior College before transferring to Texas State and earned All-America honors at Cisco.

Kalenkosky recently took time to answer our questions.

First Inning – What were the main factors in your decision to return to Texas State for the 2012 season?

I wanted to become closer to graduating with an accounting degree. We have a great program and a great staff here at Texas State so I knew by coming back I was in great hands.

Second Inning – Were you drafted out of high school or while at Cisco Junior College?

Only drafted out of Texas State

Third Inning – What were the biggest adjustments you had to make going from Cisco Junior College to Texas State?

This biggest adjustment I had to make was primarily time management. At Cisco, there were no distractions and I had all the time I needed to practice and compete. Here at Texas State, I had to learn how to better balance school and baseball.

Fourth Inning – How satisfied were you to have played so well during the Southland Conference Tournament?

I couldn't have asked for a better outcome, our team played really well and we competed the entire tournament. Our team was playing great team baseball and it was really fun to be a part of.

Fifth Inning – How was your first NCAA regional experience?

It was a great learning experience. I wish it would have gone a little better, but I was happy to be there

Sixth inning – What is your outlook for the Bobcats this season?

Can't wait. We have a great team and I think it’s going to be a huge year

Seventh Inning – Do you have any personal goals for 2012?

Just trying to raise the bar for this program. I am following two great first basemen and not only do I want them to be proud of how I play the game but also my teammates.

Eighth Inning – In how many games were you used as a catcher last season? Will you still work behind the plate this season?

I caught in one game last year, and yes, I plan on catching some this year to give Andrew Stumph a break from behind there.

Ninth Inning – Do you prefer catching to playing first base?

It doesn't matter to me. I just want to be in the lineup and contributing to the team.

(photos courtesy of Texas State Media Relations)