Xavier Pietri '20 Recruiting Profile

Growing up in a home where both my parents were 1^st generation college graduates it was no surprise that while I was a student athlete – my academic achievements were always highlighted before my accomplishments on the field.  They encouraged me to dream big and provided support in order to fulfill my aspirations - all they asked for in return was that I supply a few missing ingredients:  work ethic, fearlessness, determination.

My Grandfather lives with us and hearing his stories of playing non-league baseball in Puerto Rico cemented my love for the game at an early age.  He told me that while he was never the best player on any of the teams he played on, “trabajo duro triunfa los regalos de Dios”.   Loosely translated, hard work beats talent - his way sounds better and elegantly stated for someone whose dreams of continuing his education were unrealistic due to the finances of his Father / Family.

I understand that me being where I am has come on the backs of those who went to sleep hungry, those who had to work instead of study, those who had to learn a different language.

For as long as I can remember college has been a goal of mine and as I reflect on my present state and my family’s history I plan to use my higher education and business sense to assist those in need and build a better future.

Along this journey, I plan on playing baseball at a collegiate level.  I didn’t make the first travel baseball team I tried out for (9U) – crushed over the news my Father asked me if I wanted to get better or focus on music?  Determined to never again let my fate be decided due to lack of preparation and hard work I find myself after many years of batting practice and fielding grounders with an opportunity to play ball.

Every grounder my Grandfather hit to me, every throw to my Father at 1^st or 2^nd, every errant throw my younger Sister assisted in picking up, every meal my Mother cooked before early practices – all leading to this. 

I am ready for the challenge and willing to do whatever is necessary to help your institution / baseball program.