Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Brycen Torres

Brycen Torres is a sophomore pitcher on the Booker High baseball team. Torres threw a six-inning no-hitter April 23 in the Tornadoes' 10-0 home win against Gibbs High. He received the game ball from coach Brian Wright. 

When did you start playing baseball?

I started five years ago. I couldn't play football because I was too small. (Laughs). So I tried baseball. 

What is the appeal to you?

You get to show your personality, it is a lot of fun. You don't have to be mean or anything. Just be yourself. 

What is your best pitch?

My curveball. I don't throw hard. My fastball is about 66 mph. I have to rely on my curve. 

What is your favorite memory?

Tonight, for sure. (Torres' no-hitter.) I have never done this before, allowing zero hits. It is pretty cool. 

What has been your biggest challenge?

Hitting, for sure. I have struggled at the plate. That is why I have focused on pitching. 

What are your goals for the rest of the season?

Win districts. That's it. We want to win our district. 

What is your favorite food?

Steak. I get it cooked medium rare. 

What is your favorite TV show?

"Family Guy," for sure. 

What are your hobbies outside of baseball?

Playing more baseball. (Laughs.) I practice four hours a day. It is what I do.

Which superpower would you pick?

It has to be super speed, because I am slow. 

What is your favorite subject in school?

I like language arts a lot. 

What is your biggest fear?

Heights, especially when you look over an edge. Oh, man. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Just throw strikes. That is the key to everything (as a pitcher). Aim for the (strike) zone, good things happen. 

Finish this sentence: "Brycen Torres is ... "

... Calm. I don't talk too much. (Laughs.)