Alex Bregman, the Houston Astros' 2015 Top Draft Pick, Talks Baseball

Every year, the Major League Baseball draft introduces a new group of top prospects to the professional game. Plucking the best young American players helps annually rejuvenate the level of top up-and-coming talent. One of the most notable entries this year was shortstop Alex Bregman, who is poised to become one of the National Pastime’s next stars.

The right-handed Bregman grew up in Albuquerque. He attended Albuquerque Academy and was a nationally known prep star. In particular, he garnered wide-spread attention following his impressive performance in the 2011 Perfect Game National Showcase home run derby.

Despite being drafted in the 29th round in 2012 by the Boston Red Sox, he elected to defer his career aspirations and play collegiately. It was an excellent decision, as he starred for the LSU Tigers, winning the 2013 National Freshman of the Year award among an assortment of honors throughout his career. Additionally, his team played in the College World Series in 2013 and 2015.

During his three seasons in Baton Rouge, he combined to hit .337 with 21 home runs, 148 RBIs and 66 stolen bases in 196 games. As one of the most decorated players in college, he entered the 2015 draft as one of the most talked about prospects. Not surprisingly, he didn’t last long on the board, going to the Houston Astros with the second overall selection in the first round.

The 21-year-old has already signed and started his professional career. He is off to a strong start, hitting .259 (.367 OBP) in 28 games with a home run, 13 RBIs and four stolen bases. More information about his statistics is available here.

Back in 2012, I had a chance to interview Bregman. Unfortunately, this has not been posted until now, but what better time to revisit our conversation now that he is on the cusp of realizing his professional aspirations? In addition to keeping up with his progress on the field, he is also on Twitter. All the best to this young prospect who has worked so hard throughout his baseball career!

Alex Bregman Interview:

Who were your favorite team and player when you were growing up, and why?: Milwaukee Brewers because when I was five I was told to pick a team and be loyal to them. I chose the Brewers. Later, my best friend Max Walla was drafted by them in the second round ('09). Now I really love how they have a young team and they are doing very well. My favorite player is Dustin Pedroia because he plays the game the right way. He hustles, plays so hard, and has a tremendous knowledge for the game. 

Can you describe what it's like having your own real baseball card before even graduating from high school?: You know, it's a dream come true. When I was growing up I always was collecting baseball cards and I dreamed of being on one. Now that dream is a reality and it’s pretty surreal.

What is it like being a highly regarded draft prospect?: It's an honor, but I am really just focused on winning a state championship for now with my high school teammates.

Can you talk a little bit about your performance in the Perfect Game home run derby?: Haha. You know it was really such an honor to be invited to the Perfect Game National Showcase. It was really fun getting to compete in a home run derby against some of the top players in the country, and my BP thrower was phenomenal.

How much baseball does a player of your caliber play outside of regular high school games?: During the summer and fall I played with Team USA and the Albuquerque Baseball Academy. I got to basically play baseball non-stop against some of the best competition from around the world. It was a blast.

Can you describe your memories of going to your first major league game (if you have been to one)?: I got to sit and watch the Angels play the Rangers with my grandpa, father and brother, and we had so much fun! We sat in the nose bleed section and you couldn't wipe the smiles off our faces

Have you had any interactions with current or former major league players?: I currently have been training this off-season with some of my best friends, lifting weights with our trainer (Adrian Gonzales PHW) and hitting at the Albuquerque baseball Academy with (Jason Columbus). They are Max Walla (Brewers), Blake Swihart (Red Sox), Scott Gracey (Blue Jays), and Jordan Pacheco (Rockies). We really push each other and are trying to be the best baseball players we can be. It really is a brotherhood, and I can't wait to see what happens.

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