Athlete of the Week: 10 questions with Brenden Stressler, New Trier baseball

Brenden Stressler is a junior outfielder for the Trevians. The left-handed bat has committed to Saint Louis University.

1. Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitious?

Before the game, I eat a good meal and then on the bus ride, just warm up before the game, just stay loose. No real superstitions, I’d say. 

2. Why is Saint Louis a good fit for you?

It is somewhat close to home. It’s a bit south, so the weather is a little nicer, and my parents can come watch me play. And having the ability to play early, as a freshman or sophomore, was big for me. And I like the coaches, too.

3. What is your favorite thing to do off the field?

I’d say hang out with friends and play video games. I’d say I play “Call of Duty’ the most. And hang out with family, too.

4. What is your dream job? 

To play in Major League Baseball. Or just some job including baseball. 

5. What do you enjoy so much about baseball? 

The ups and downs. You are doing really good and then could do really bad the next game. Just staying neutral, not getting yourself down. It teaches some lessons about life — sticking with it, keeping your confidence up and eventually things will come around. 

6. If you could play another sport, what would it be?

Probably basketball. I played it in middle school. I love playing. Sinking some shots is really satisfying. And I find it fun to be on the court. 

7. What is your top sports moment so far?

I have to say last year making it to the super-sectional. That whole season and playoff run was really exciting. And the home run I hit against Maine South in the regional final. It was a close game and just my second of the season. 

8. If you are in Walgreens with a couple bucks, what are you buying? 

Probably watermelon Sour Patch (candy) and a Fairlife protein shake — strawberry; chocolate is second. 

9. What is something people do not know about you?

That I take German and I’ve taken it since fifth grade. I speak German pretty well.

10. What does this team hope to accomplish this season?

I think we have a really good chance of winning a state championship. We have the whole field returning and have some really good arms pitching. If it all comes together at the right time, I think we could really make a run and have a really nice season. 

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