Athlete Spotlight: Yabdriel Gonzalez

Jose Rodriguez '24, Staff Writer | Media & Communications

SALEM, Mass. -- This week, Salem State Athletics is featuring reigning MASCAC Rookie of the Week, Yabdriel Gonzalez (Fr., INF, New Haven, Conn.). Gonzalez batted .556 (5-9) with two doubles, two RBI, three runs scored, a walk and had a .636 on-base percentage and .778 slugging percentage in a 2-0 week for the Vikings. He went 4-for-4 with two doubles and an RBI in an 8-4 win over Gordon. Gonzalez also added a hit, RBI and run scored in an 8-7 victory over Wentworth. 

Gonzalez was surprised upon learning of his achievement. "Honestly, it was out of nowhere. We were at practice and some of my teammates told me about the news."

He expressed how locked in he was against Wentworth and Gordon. "Honestly going into those games, I just wanted to step it up and play better than the past weeks."

The New Haven native spoke about his 4 for 4 performances. "I felt amazing because obviously I haven't been at my best when it comes to defense, but I was still able to pick my team up."  He also added what he was looking for in certain parts of his at-bats that made him have a good productive day at the plate. "Going into this game, my confidence was high, so I was just attacking."

He talked about the differences between his in-season and off-season routines. "I try to get as much rest as possible, and just play ball. Off-season is a different type of grind."

The freshman talked about the adjustments he made since coming to college. "One big adjustment that's been a game changer has been my leg kick while batting, stating that is had taken him awhile to adjust to his new approach."  

Born and raised in Puerto Rico, his favorite MLB team is the Red sox and he mentioned that his uncle was drafted by the organization, while his mother has been the biggest influence in his life.