Q&A with starting pitcher Lenny DiNardo
A: It's great how we can fill the place. Omaha's stadium fits 26,000 and we would only have about 4,000 people show up, so it felt like we were the only ones there. There's some familiar faces here, Johnny Doskow is the best announcer in the League, and then of course my teammates.
Q: In the 2009 season you were named "Omaha Pitcher of the Year" leading your team with 10 wins. How did it feel receiving that title?
A: Well, I don't go out there trying to be recognized. I go out one pitch at a time. If the accolades come it's great, and I have open arms. I mean I don't really know why they put those awards out there in the first place.
Q: What is it you are working on in order to better yourself as a pitcher and team player for the River Cats?
A: Throwing strikes is the key. I need to keep the ball down, get some ground balls. And if I hit the spots, let the defense take care of the rest.
Q: As a pitcher in the starting rotation, what are some crucial things you do to stay healthy?
A: I keep consistent with my workouts: eating, icing. It's the routine that is important. But, you know, Brad LaRosa does a great job, as an athletic trainer and den-mother. I really need to give the credit to him.
Q: Many baseball players have superstitions. Do you have any rituals or routines you do pregame or throughout the game?
A: I am not OCD or anything; I try to get a good vibe. I listen to music before the game. One thing I do before I go out there is I stare at something for about 30 seconds. I really get my tunnel vision in check, and that enables me to get really focused.