On Tap with ... Jonathan York

York posted a .308 batting average in his freshman season, though he is currently hitting .200 this season with a home run and seven RBIs. With an important weekend against Columbia (14-21, 6-6) coming up, the team will need York’s skill, humor and fashion sense to succeed. The ‘Prince’ sat down with York to learn about his origins in baseball, critical roles on the team and disdain for the spotlight that comes with being an athlete.

Q: Where are you from, and what is it like there?

A: I am from Atlanta, Ga. It is my favorite place in the country.

Q: What is your role on the baseball team?

A: A lot of people trivialize my role, but I would say my job as fashion police is arguably most important. If your shirttail isn’t tucked in, or your cap is crooked, you better believe you’re going to hear it from me.

Q: How did you start playing baseball?

A: My mom actually put together a league for my friends and me when I was four because I prayed every night to be on a baseball team. That was unbelievable.

Q: What’s the weirdest thing that’s happened to you in a game?

A: Against St. John’s this past week, I witnessed [junior pitcher and shortstop] Matty Bowman hit a ball into the outfield.

Q: What’s the best part about being an athlete on campus?

A: This is a tough one. Between the booster benefits, post-game showers and interacting with the athletic training legend, Charlie Thompson, I’m not sure I could pick just one thing.

Q: What’s the worst part about being an athlete on campus?

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A: Constantly being in the spotlight. Sometimes I need some Jonathan York time.

Q: If not baseball, what sport would you play?

A: Mixed martial arts.

Q: Who’s your quirkiest teammate, and why?

A: Freshman pitcher Danny “Downtown” Thomson. He’s just a ball of energy and a non-stop chatterbox.

Q: What was your “welcome to college” moment?

A: I remember the first day I went to hit with the team. I took three swings and had to stop due to a stress fracture in my top right rib. Not a great way to start off the career.

Q: Does the team have any odd rituals?

A: The famous [junior pitcher] Kevin Link booty shake. Ask him about it.

Q: What’s the greatest highlight of your sports career?

A: Without a doubt, winning last year’s Ivy League championship was the highlight of my sporting career. To come in as a freshman and have a season like that right off the bat was indescribable. Hopefully we can repeat that performance this season.

Q: What’s the most embarrassing song on your iPod?

A: Justin Bieber’s “One Time.” A great song, but definitely embarrassing.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do when not practicing?

A: Post up at Cottage.