Recent Eastern graduate and former first basemen Erik Huber was selected yesterday for the ESPN the Magazine First Team Academic All-American. An award which recognizes students for both their grades and their performance on the field. Editor-in-Chief Adam Tedder sat down with Huber to discuss Huber’s most recent honor.

How does it feel to be named Academic All-American?

You know, it’s a great feeling. Not only to accomplish goals on the field, but in the classroom as well. The whole baseball team takes pride in doing well in the classroom.

How do you compare this season to previous seasons at Eastern?

It was one that I had a lot of fun with being my last year. I just stepped back and took perspective and made sure that I would have fun with my senior year.

Do you feel that was your best year?

Yeah, it was overall. Defensively, I felt I got a lot better and offensively, I kept the same stats. I wanted to improve my power in the off-season and my season stats show that I did improve on my power.

Do you value grades over athletics?

I think I value grades more because that is what will help me get a job. I still value baseball, but I know that it won’t last me forever where as school will. My grades will help me get a job and help me get and keep a secure living.

Did you ever expect such an award?

No, not really. I was on my way back from the St. Louis Cardinals workout and my coach called me and told me. He said only five infielders from the entire country were selected. It was pretty shocking.

What do you think your future holds and will it involve baseball?

Right now, my hopes are pretty high. I’m hoping some team will take me in the draft. But if they tell me my time is up, then that’s where my grades will help me get a job. But I still think baseball will be involved with my future.