Where Are They Now - Nick Gorneault
A 19th round draft pick of the Angels in 2001 out of the University of Massachusetts, outfielder Nick Gorneault spent part or all of five seasons in a Salt Lake uniform and is among the franchise leaders in several offensive categories. He is Salt Lake's all-time leader in runs batted in with 293, which includes a PCL-leading 108 RBI in 2005. From May 20-31, 2006, Gorneault set a team record by delivering at least one RBI in 12 consecutive games. He is also second on the franchise leader board in home runs (70), triples (24), runs scored (299) and games played (460).
Following the 2010 season, Gorneault retired from his playing career. Slbees.com caught up with Nick this month in an effort to update fans on what he's currently doing while sharing a few great memories from his time in Salt Lake.
What have you been doing since you retired from playing?
"Since retiring from playing I have been scouting for the Angels. I am the Northeast area scout and I love the job. Hopefully I will have some players come through Salt Lake real soon."
Are you currently involved with coaching baseball (or any other sport) to kids?
"In the offseason of scouting I do teach hitting lessons to youth ballplayers in my home town."
What do you do to keep connected to former teammates?
"I stay in touch with teammates via Facebook, text messages and fantasy football. I make regular phone calls with closer friends and I will run into guys randomly every now and then. I know its crazy but the baseball family is tight knit and you stay close with guys even after not seeing them for many years."
What do you take away from the game that helps you in your post-baseball life?
"Obviously the competition of professional baseball and the need to find an edge helps me succeed in my profession today. I always go the extra mile to be my best because that is the only way I knew how to do it on the playing field."
What is your most memorable playing experience as a Salt Lake Bee?
"I had so many great moments in Salt Lake throughout the years. My most memorable moment with the Bees however was celebrating clinching a playoff birth in 2006. I remember popping the champagne in Tacoma after a big win. We had a real tight club that year."
What about the Bees do you miss the most?
"What I miss the most about the Bees was the atmosphere at the ballpark and spending time with the guys in that great clubhouse."
What was your favorite restaurant while living in Salt Lake?
"My favorite restaurant in Salt Lake is Bruges Waffles and Frites. They have the most amazing Belgium waffles! They are ridiculous!"