Freshman Evan Danieli.

Countdown To First Pitch: In The Dugout With Evan Danieli

Feb. 20, 2008

The University of Notre Dame baseball team welcomes 19 newcomers to the diamond this season. The class was ranked as one of the top in the entire county — fourth by Baseball America and sixth by Collegiate Baseball. In the coming weeks, UND.com will feature each Irish newcomer leading up to the team’s Feb. 22 opener against Liberty. The 12th Notre Dame player in the spotlight is right-handed pitcher Evan Danieli.

Hometown: East Hanover, N.J.
Previous School: Seton Hall Prep
Position: RHP
Height/Weight: 6-7/230
Bat/Throw: R/R

If you were to play another sport at Notre Dame, what would it be?
Basketball.

Best thing about the team:
Our relationships go beyond the field.

What are three words that best describe coach Schrage?
Desire, Committed, Observant.

Which professional player would you compare yourself to?
Chris Young.

What is your favorite major league ballpark?
Yankee Stadium.

What would be the title of your autobiography?
“6-8”.

What is your favorite/most memorable sports moment?
AFLAC Game and State championship my junior and senior year in high school.

Are you a fan of the American League’s designated hitter or do you prefer the National League style?
I want to hit. National League.

Should college baseball switch to wooden bats?
I’m a pitcher. Please switch.

Who is the best hitter and pitcher in major league baseball?
Alex Rodriguez Josh Beckett.

Favorite baseball team:
New York Yankees.

Favorite player:
Roger Clemens.

Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
Listen to Sevendust.

Why did you choose Notre Dame?
To play with the bext, and to become the best.

— ND —