Athlete of the Week: 10 questions with Nick Bailey, New Trier baseball

Nick Bailey is a senior pitcher for the Trevians. He struck out 12 batters in his season-opening start, a New Trier victory against Edwardsville.

1. Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions?

Not really. I have an energy drink every time. It’s not really a ritual. I just have to be in right mindset; that’s kind of my thing.

2. What do you hope to do after high school?

I’m hoping to play baseball if I get the opportunity. But if not, I’ll probably go to the University of Colorado.

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

Probably play some basketball, some good three on three with my friends. It’s so much fun.

4. If you could play a sport you haven’t tried, what would it be?

I’d like to try cricket. Everyone talks about how it’s similar to baseball, but I also don’t know the rules.

5. If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

Probably the Alps. I think that would be sick. They just look cool. I went there once, went skiing there. It was cool.

6. What is your first memory of baseball?

My first memory, I don’t even know if it was baseball, but playing wiffle ball or hitting of a tee with my dad. I was probably like 5.

7. What is your favorite pitch to throw?

Slider. It’s definitely my best pitch that I can throw in any count. It’s my strikeout pitch. It’s my most versatile pitch for sure. I can throw it when I need it.

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

Probably like the Muddy Buddies Chex Mix — they are so good — and a Dr. Pepper or a Fanta.

9. What is something people don’t know about you?

I would say I am weirdly good at Frisbee. For some reason I can throw it far. I played ultimate Frisbee at a camp when I was little.

10. What are the hopes for this team this season?

A state championship is obviously the goal, and we definitely can make it happen. It’s not a question. First off, we need to get healthy. That’s coming shortly; we have a couple arms coming back. Our lineup is good already. We’re going to be a dangerous down the stretch. We’re going to peak at the right time and be the best team.

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