East County Athlete of the Week: Carter Sprague

Carter Sprague has been a bright spot for a Lakewood Ranch High baseball team that has struggled so far.

The junior centerfielder leads the team in hits (12), runs (eight), batting average (.387) and stolen bases (eight). 

During a three-game stretch from March 4-7, Sprague went 6-for-12 with four runs, four RBIs, a double and three stolen bases. 

When and why did you start playing baseball?

I started playing baseball when I was around 4-years-old. I grew up around it because my brother and my dad played it. 

What’s been the most memorable part of this season so far?

This new team and getting to bond with them. We had a lot of seniors last year who are now gone, so I’m the upperclassman who gets to see these young guys come in. I was the quiet guy on the team, but now I have to speak up and come out of my comfort zone. I try to get the team up in the dugout and give 100% in practice, especially now that we’re 2-7. We have to start playing better.

What’s your favorite all-time memory in baseball?

Probably my freshman year. I was a freshman on varsity and we won the district championship against Venice. That’s been my favorite moment in high school.

What’s gone right for you this year?

I’ve stolen a lot more bases and I’ve used my speed to my advantage. That’s been a problem the past years. I wasn’t as aggressive as I should’ve been. The coaches have been on me about it, so I figured I would be relentless out there.

What’s your favorite meal?

It would have to be orange chicken and white rice from Panda Express. I get that all the time.

What’s your favorite TV show or movie?

My favorite movie would have to be ‘Benchwarmers’ because I grew up watching it and it’s still a funny movie to this day.

Do you have any go-to warm-up songs?

I don’t have a go-to song, but my go-to artist is Future. I listen to him a lot.

If you’re not playing baseball, what are you doing?

I’m either working out or hanging out with my friends, most likely at the beach. But I’m usually always around baseball. It’s an everyday part of my life.

What’s been your most memorable moment in baseball?

My freshman year I thought I was all that because I was on the team. We played Venice and I went 0-for-3 with three strikeouts. That humbled me.

What’s your ideal weekend look like?

Working out and hitting (at Total Baseball Academy) is mainly what I stick to every weekend, and then hanging out with friends.

Who’s your favorite baseball player and why?

Ronald Acuña Jr. He’s so flashy. I like the way he plays the game.

Finish this sentence. Carter Sprague is…

Nonchalant.