Q&A With Matt LaPorta

Posted by: Staff Writers on Sep 8th, 2009 No Comments

Matt LaPorta, the former Gator outfielder and SEC Player of the Year, is currently playing for the Cleveland Indians, in fact, he is having a quite successful season. Playing Left Field and First Base, LaPorta is batting .248, with 10 RBI’s, 3 HR’s, 19 runs, and 2 stolen bases. Despite his busy schedule, and the MLB regular season winding down, Matt took some time away from the game to answer a few questions for Gators Sports Nation.

1. How would you describe your time as a Florida Gator and being apart of the baseball program?

Matt Laporta: Being a part of the Gator baseball was such a blessing. It gave me an opportunity to become a better person, student and baseball player. I have developed so many great relationships with teammates and others at the University of Florida . Through baseball their I had the opportunity to go to so many different places that I never would have been if it were not being a part of the University of Florida baseball team.

2. When you were named SEC Player of the Year in your Senior season, what was your first reaction after hearing the news?

M.L: It was such a great feeling because there were so many great players that year who had could have won it also. It also was such a blessing because I trusted In the Lord to go back for my senior year and great things happen because of Jesus not because of me.

3. As a member of the Cleveland Indians, what is one difference from the MLB compared to the collegiate level?

M.L: One big difference is the fact that you don’t get to hit with aluminum anymore. Ha-ha. The talent is much better than playing college baseball It has been a great learning experience for myself.
4.You have had a ton of success this year, how tough was it going through the farm system and finally being called up to the big leagues?
M.L: It’s tough in the sense that it not the Big Leagues but I felt that if I continued to work hard and do the best that I could the light at the end of the tunnel would be there one day. I am so grateful for the chance to play in the MLB.
5. I hear you are going to be doing a baseball camp in November, would you care to explain more information about the program?
M.L: Yes one of my good Friends Stephen Bartonwho own GatorBall and myself are going to do the camp on November 8, 2009.  The camp is going to be 100.00 dollars per kid and it will include lunch, t-shirt, water bottle, picture. It also be used to give money back to the little leagues around the area. As well to build up the Matt LaPorta Foundation that will support many other foundations around the country. To view a full list check out my website @ mattlaporta.com

6. Last question, do you still keep in touch with any of the coaches or players from Gainesville , and do you plan on attending any games this year?

M.L: I do still keep in touch with some of my buddies back in Gainesville as well as some of the coaches that were there when I was and some of the present coaches. I would love to come back and catch a next season unfortunately I will be out in Arizona for spring training by the time they start.

We thank Matt for taking the time to answer our questions, and Gators Sports Nation wishes him the best of luck with his MLB career.

Matt LaPorta

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