Feb. 16, 2009
The University of Notre Dame baseball team welcomes eight newcomers to the diamond this season. In the coming weeks, UND.com will feature each Irish newcomer leading up to the team’s Feb. 20 season opener against Ohio State. The sixth Notre Dame player in the spotlight is left-handed pitcher Joe Spano.
Jersey Number: 21
Hometown: Verona, NJ
High School: Seton Hall Prep
Position: Left-handed Pitcher
Height/Weight: 5-11/165
Bat/Throw: L/L
If you were to play another sport at Notre Dame, what would it be?
Hockey. I played when I was younger, and it was my favorite sport.
Best thing about the team:
My Teammates
What are three words that best describe Coach Schrage?
Astute, unyielding, fair
Which professional player would you compare yourself to?
Scott Kazmir
What is your favorite major league ballpark?
Fenway Park
What would be the title of your autobiography?
If I Could Do It Again, I’d Do It The Same
What is your favorite/most memorable sports moment?
Winning two state championships in high school, and having our team ranked #1 nationally my junior year.
Are you a fan of the American League’s designated hitter or do you prefer the National League style?
AL, I used to play outfield so I miss hitting
Should college baseball switch to wooden bats?
Yes, I value my life.
Who is the best hitter and pitcher in major league baseball?
Hitter: Manny Ramirez
Pitcher: Josh Beckett
Favorite baseball team:
New York Yankees
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I put my left sock on before my right and same for my cleats
Why did you choose Notre Dame?
Notre Dame offers the best combination of academics, athletics and tradition
— ND —