East County Athlete of the Week: Ryan Kaitz

Ryan Kaitz is a senior on the Lakewood Ranch High baseball team. In three games from March 28-April 5, Kaitz went 4-for-8 with two doubles, a home run, four walks and five RBIs, helping the Mustangs go 3-0. On the season, Kaitz is hitting .386 with five doubles, three home runs, 16 walks and 18 RBIs. The Mustangs are 9-6-1 as of April 8. 

When did you start playing baseball?

I started when I was 5 years old. My brother (Myles Kaitz) is four years older than me and he played baseball. I just followed in his footsteps. 

What is the appeal to you?

I love everything about the game. I love getting to practice it every day and being out there with all my friends. 

What is your best skill?

It is definitely hitting. It came naturally to me, but I also work hard on it every day. I can hit the ball anywhere. 

What have you been working to improve?

I've been trying to get more power numbers and more extra-base hits. That's been going well the last few games. 

What is your favorite memory?

When I was 12, I played in a travel tournament in Cooperstown, New York. Some of my high school teammates were on that team. It was just the best experience ever. We were in a different state with different weather. It was all new. It was also my last tournament playing on the smaller fields before I moved over to the big fields. It was just fun. 

What has gone right for the Mustangs lately?

At the beginning of the season, we just were not clicking as one. We have started winning games because we're hitting while still doing our job pitching- and defense-wise. We have been able to finish some games that we were not finishing before. 

What is your favorite food?

It is definitely a steak, cooked medium. 

What is your favorite TV show?

"Breaking Bad." I finished that show pretty quick. It's great. 

What is your favorite school subject? 

I like my economics class a lot. It's relaxed and the stuff we learn is interesting. 

What are your hobbies?

If I'm not practicing, I'm either relaxing at home or hanging out with my friends or going to the gym. 

Which superpower would you pick?

I would want telepathy so I could see into other people's minds. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Understand that baseball is a game. You have to go one at-bat or one pitch at a time. You cannot let the last pitch affect you and keep eating at you. You have to flush it and realize you have another opportunity to do something. 

Finish this sentence: "Ryan Kaitz is …" 

Outgoing.