Q & A with Cyclones Shortstop Reese Havens

June 16, 2008   ·   Patrick Hickey, Jr.   ·   Jump to comments

Recently drafted in the first round by the New York Mets, shortstop Reese Havens may be the Cyclones most dynamic player this season. An accomplished hitter in college, Havens, whose batting stance may remind some of former Houston Astros great Jeff Bagwell, hit .359 with 18 home runs and 57 RBI with the University of South Carolina this season. Talking to the media after workouts on June 14, he outlined his goals for the season and talked about his new surroundings.

You signed at Shea Stadium a few days ago, what was your impression of the club?

Reese Havens: It was awesome. I got to experience it for the first time with my family and they [the Mets] took care of us. We had a good time there.

How much different is New York from where you come from?

Havens: Everything is a lot quicker than it is in South Carolina. You can probably tell that because I know I’m not talking as fast as you all want me to. I don’t mind it though; it’s been great so far. I’ve had a blast since I got here.

How do you like Keyspan Park so far?

Havens: It’s a really nice ballpark and from what I hear, there are sell-out crowds and packed stands every night, so I’m excited about playing here.

What do you bring to a team? What makes you a special ballplayer?

Havens: Whether I go 4 for 4 or 0 for 4, I’m going to come out here every night and give it my all. I try to be the best teammate I can. That’s basically what I try and do every game. I’m going to try and get these guys going by coming to the ballpark everyday with the mentality that we’re going to win and be as confident as possible.

If you could compare yourself to a major leaguer, who would it be and why?

Havens: I’ve been asked that question a good bit, but I really can’t put a finger on it. I was a big Cal Ripken fan when he used to play and I’m still a big Chipper [Jones] fan. I think Jose Reyes is the most exciting infielder in baseball to watch too.

You spoke before about the faster pace in New York, how do you think that’s going to transition to your game?

Havens: It’s going to be a jump, but I feel confident that I’m ready.

Do you see yourself as a shortstop later in your career or do you see yourself playing another infield position?

Havens: I was drafted as a shortstop and the plan right now is to continue to play shortstop. I’ve been asked that question a lot lately and I’ve told everyone that as long as I’m in the lineup, I don’t care where I’m playing.

What are your expectations for this team this season?

Havens: The expectations and the goals for every team you play on are to win a championship. In college, it’s a National Championship and in the big leagues it’s the World Series. This season, we’re going to play to the last out here. Those are our expectations and goals for this season.

Photo by Ron Hatcher