Rick Baker

Rick Baker 

USSSA Playing History

Major Player List

GoSoftball.com Player Page

2011 Interview

Why do you like the game of softball?
I grew up around the game, my dad sponsored a team when I was growing up.   I play it for more than one reason, I play because it's fun, I love the game, for competition, and I have a lot of friends in and around the game.

Who is the best softball player you have ever seen play?
Hard question, I can't give you one answer, here is my list:
Brett Helmer
Todd Joerling
Andy Purcell

Where do you call home?
 West Harrison, Indiana

What do you do for a living?
  Regional Sales Manager, Combat Sports 

Did you play sports in High School / College / Pro?
I played baseball in high school but started playing softball when I was 15, I played more softball in high school then anything.

How did you get your start in softball and how did you get to the upper level?
I started playing with my older brothers team in the Cincinnati Area from there I was picked up by K&G Sports in North Vernon, Indiana.   We won the ASA "A" the first year, the NSA 'A' my 2nd year and from there just got noticed by other teams until Dan Smith picked me up in 2003.

What batting grip do you use?
Just a standard grip, I do keep one finger down at the knob.

What is your favorite sports team?
Cincinnati Bengals

What is your favorite sport other than softball?
I like to play basketball and watch football.

Do you have any superstitions and if so, what are they?
Don't step on the foul line, if I'm having a good tournament not under any circumstances do I tell someone I'm hitting good.

What is your most memorable softball moment?
Winning the Border Battle in 2009.

Is slowpitch softball a sport or a game?
I don't know, It's both.

What is the best improvement upper level softball could make?
Find a way to keep people from cheating.

What is your favorite non-World tournament?
Smokey Mountain Classic

Rick Baker is given the John Glidewell sportsmanship award from Don Dedonatis Jr.