Sports
Catching Up with Venice's First Baseman and Co-Captain
Steven Diaz says he uses the lessons he's learned on the field in life.
The Venice baseball team is turning heads this year, as it has jumped out to an 8-4 start on its way to being contenders in the western league. One of the biggest reasons for the team's success is the play of co-captain Steven Diaz, who has been a top defensive player this year.
“I have been playing baseball since I was four, and it’s taught me how to be the best person I can be,” said Diaz.
Diaz says that working with a team for nearly his whole life has taught him how to lead and work with people.
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“I really try to teach people what I’ve learned from my mistakes," Diaz said.
Earlier in the year, we profiled from the baseball team. Just like Valdez, Diaz also volunteers much of his time to Little Leaguers in the area.
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“I volunteer at North Venice Little League at the snack bar and as an umpire. I also volunteer at school here," Diaz said.
Coach Walter Fujita says that he has a special relationship with Diaz, who has been in the program since Fujita came back to Venice three years ago.
“I count on him a lot with this team as a captain and as a leader. He’s a hard worker, and he’s very mature for his age. He is a key component to this team, and we are lucky to have him," Fujita said.
The first baseman's defense is key, with a fielding percentage of 95 percent. He is also one of only six players who have started every game this year.
Diaz has been playing baseball for 14 years, and he has no plans of slowing down anytime soon. He is hoping to play the sport at the next level after he graduates this year.
“After high school I plan on going to West L.A. City College or El Camino. I want to play baseball, and major in acting or business,” said Diaz
When he gets there, Diaz says he will use everything that baseball has given him throughout his life.
“I plan on taking what baseball has taught me, including being respectful, from baseball field to life. It’s like what coach says: He’s telling us to be good people not good baseball players."
