The Santa Clara baseball team ended with an impressive record this past season, finishing with the most wins since 2008. As the season closed and many seniors ended their baseball careers and prepared for graduation, senior Lucas Herbst (LH) received the text of a life-time declaring the continuation of his passion – baseball! Herbst was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the 26th round.
A career .301 (178-592) hitter, Herbst collected 26 stolen bases and hit seven home runs. He also hit an impressive 10 triples and added 14 doubles while driving in 71 runs and scoring 103 more.
Herbst sat down with SantaClaraBroncos.com (SCB) and answered a few questions regarding his experience with the Broncos and what will come afterwards.
SCU: What was the process of getting drafter to play professionally like?
LH: To be honest it was a little stressful at first but overall it is a very exciting process to be a part of. I am truly blessed to be a part of this process.
SCU: How do you feel now that you have been drafted?
LH: It feels amazing! At the time words could not explain how excited I was that my dream finally came true. I am excited to start this new chapter of my life.
SCU: How were you notified about your selection? How did you react?
LH: I got a text from the Orioles area scout to listen to the draft online while I was at breakfast with my roommates. Once I received this text my roommates and I rushed home and were able to hear my name being called just in time. It was an amazing feeling to share with my friends and we reacted with a dog pile.
SCU: What will be your next step in pursuing your dream?
LH: My next step will be heading to Aberneen, Md. to join the Aerobirds for the summer. It's a minor league affiliate for the Baltimore Orioles (To follow Herbst's team click here).
SCU: Has playing professional baseball always been your dream?
LH: Yes, it has been my dream for as long as I can remember.
SCU: How did your experience at Santa Clara help influence your dream? How has your experience at SCU prepared you ?
LH: My experience at Santa Clara has really helped me mature into the ball player and man that I am today. I couldn't have asked to be surrounded by a better group of people.
Go Broncos!