Q&A: Oakland Athletics Sidearmer, Pat Neshek

Pat Neshek is best known for being great with the fans and a sidearm pitcher, but ever since his MLB debut with the Minnesota Twins he has also been a solid relief pitcher. He has experienced many highs and a few lows throughout his baseball career, but he always seems to deliver in the clutch. Check out what he had to say about his life and career so far!

Pat Neshek Q&A:
How did you first get interested in baseball? My parents played a lot in our yard and I loved it.

Did you have a favorite team or player growing up? Tony Gwynn and Kirby Puckett

When and why did you become a side arm pitcher? It felt natural to me so I changed to it in high school.

Did you have any other college baseball offers besides Butler? If so what schools? Creighton, Northern Iowa and Iowa State

Why did you choose to attend Butler? I had a full ride and it was expense to go there! I knew I would pitch a lot as a freshman.

What was the draft process like for you? It was a long process. My junior year of college I thought I would go in rounds 2-5… I went in the 6th round. It worked out good but at the time I had a chip on my shoulder.

What was the first big purchase you made after signing your contract with the Twins? Lasik eye surgery

What has been your biggest challenge throughout your professional baseball career so far? Coming back from Tommy John surgery.

Who has been your toughest batter to get out in your career? All slap hitting lefties

Why do you spend so much time interacting with fans and signing autographs? It’s something I do outside the game so I have no problem if people need me for anything.

What do you enjoy doing when you are not playing baseball? Collecting baseball cards/autographs. Playing with my dogs.

What is your favorite baseball park to play in? Why? Metrodome. Always dreamed of playing there when I was younger.

Who is your favorite person to follow on Twitter? Any teammates because you never know what they will write.

When you retire what do you want to be best known for? Being a normal guy that made it in the big leagues.