Q&A with Darian Sandford

Darian Sandford, switch-hitting outfielder from Park University, has signed on to play for the Alaska Goldpanners of Fairbanks for the 2010 season. Sandford is a skilled contact hitter who can consistently get on base, and uses his speed and stealing ability to put himself in scoring position. He is easily one of the fastest players in college baseball, was regarded as a top prospect in the MINK league last year, and was chosen as a Player to Watch for the Goldpanners this coming season. I caught up with Darian to find out what he'll bring to the ABL in 2010 and what he hopes to accomplish.

49th State Hardball: What are you looking forward to the most in Alaska and the ABL this season?

Darian Sandford: Over in Alaska I am looking forward to playing in a new atmosphere and facing new challenges. A lot of people underestimate me because of my size [49HB: 5'9", 175lb] and I want to prove people wrong like I did last summer.

49HB: Do you  have any personal goals this season in the ABL?

DS: I always try to set personal goals as well as team goals. Personally my goals are always to have the best batting average in the league, lead the league in stolen bases, and have no more then 2 errors for the season. My team goal, like last year, is to have the best record in the league.

49HB: We listed you as a Player to Watch for the Goldpanners in 2010. What do you have to show us? What do you think your most significant assets are?

DS: I feel I have a lot to show. I think I am the fastest man in baseball. I will steal any base at any time, including home plate if I have to. I just want to win and if I have to run through a wall to save a run or steal all four bases to score I will. That's just how I am about winning. I love the game of baseball and I want people to see how hard I play day in and day out. My best assets are my switch hitting, speed and defense.

49HB: What part of your game are you hoping to improve upon most this season?
DS: I am hoping to improve my swing from the left side, such as hitting for more power, and I want to improve my reads in the outfield and my footwork on the middle infield.

49HB: You were ranked as one of the top prospects in the MINK league last year by both Baseball America and Perfect Game. What is the biggest step that you would have to take to go from college prospect to professional, in your opinion?

DS: I am not trying to sound arrogant, but I feel I should have been in the top 5 in both lists because of the type of season I had. My biggest step from college to the pros would be my swing from the left side. It's good but not as good as I want it to be. I think I can hit any pitching but I am working on developing more power.

49HB: Last question, and most serious: who was your favorite baseball player growing up?

DS: My favorite player growing up was Ken Griffey Jr., the way he played the game all cool and how he made it seem so easy. I always wanted to be just like him.